Daily Prelims Notes 26 November 2023

November 26, 2023
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Daily Prelims Notes

26 November 2023

Table Of Contents

1. Why NASA Is Turning to Lasers For Next-Gen Space Comms

Subject : Science and Tech

Section: Space technology

Context: NASA’s Psyche spacecraft, successfully fired a laser signal at Earth

More about the news:

NASA’s Psyche spacecraft, designed to explore the metal core of a 144-mile-long asteroid, is carrying a test for Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC).
The DSOC experiment aims to demonstrate laser communication beyond the Moon, offering higher data rates than traditional radio waves.
The technology could alleviate bandwidth limitations on the Deep Space Network, which faces increased demands from various space missions.
Laser communication in space, while not expected to replace radio waves entirely, could provide a new channel to enhance communication capabilities.
The Psyche mission will test the DSOC during its journey to the asteroid.

What is NASA’s revolutionary new technology:

NASA’s Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC) experiment is at the forefront of advancing space communication by pioneering the use of near-infrared laser signals.
Similar to how fiber optics transformed traditional telephone lines on Earth, DSOC is poised to deliver data rates at least 10 times higher than current state-of-the-art radio telecommunications systems of comparable size and power.
This breakthrough technology, housed in the Psyche spacecraft, aims to enhance data transmission during its journey to the main asteroid belt, offering benefits such as higher resolution images, increased scientific data volumes, and the possibility of streaming video.
The DSOC transceiver, a crucial component, achieved “first light” on November 14 by successfully locking onto a powerful uplink laser beacon transmitted from NASA’s Table Mountain Facility near Wrightwood, California.
Overcoming the challenges associated with higher bandwidths, DSOC relies on “extremely precise pointing.”
Achieving this precision involves isolating the transceiver from the spacecraft’s vibrations and compensating for the constantly changing positions of Earth and the spacecraft.
The analogy provided by NASA illustrates the precision required as “hitting a dime from a mile away while the dime is moving,” emphasizing the need for accuracy in targeting.
Furthermore, the vast distance between the spacecraft and Earth necessitates the use of novel signal-processing techniques to extract information from the weak laser signals transmitted through space.

What is NASA’s Psyche Spacecraft:

Psyche, a space mission under the National Aeronautics and Space Administration , was launched in 2023 with the goal of exploring the origin of planetary cores.
It aims to achieve this by orbiting and studying the metallic asteroid 16 Psyche, commencing its observations in 2029.
Positioned between Mars and Jupiter, 16 Psyche is recognized as the heaviest M-type asteroid, characterized by elevated concentrations of metal phases such as iron-nickel.
Scientists speculate that it could be the exposed iron core of a protoplanet or the aftermath of a collision that stripped away its mantle and crust.
To propel and maneuver in orbit, Psyche utilizes solar-powered hall effect thrusters, marking the first instance of an interplanetary spacecraft employing this technology.
Furthermore, it stands as the pioneering mission to employ laser optical communications beyond the Earth-Moon system.
Managed by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), the spacecraft is scheduled to orbit 16 Psyche from August 2029 until late 2031. Although it won’t land on the asteroid, the mission holds the potential to provide distinctive insights into Earth’s impenetrable iron core.

2. Dublin

Subject : IR

Section: Places in news

Context: Protesters take to streets in Dublin after knife attack injures three children

More about the news:

Violent clashes erupted in central Dublin following a knife attack that left a five-year-old girl seriously injured.
The attack occurred outside a school, leading to a surge of about 100 people on the streets, some armed with metal bars.
Riot police were deployed to quell the unrest.
Demonstrators clashed with law enforcement, damaging police vehicles, a tram, and setting a bus and car on fire.

Some facts about Dublin:

Dublin is the capital of Republic of Ireland
It is located on the east coast of Ireland, at the mouth of the River Liffey
It is a UNESCO City of Literature, and it has a rich literary heritage.
It is home to many famous writers, including James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and Samuel Beckett.

3. Government panel sets indicative targets for blending sustainable aviation fuel in ATF

Subject: Polity

Section: National Body

Context: Govt panel sets indicative targets for blending sustainable aviation fuel in ATF from 2027

More about the news:

The National Biofuel Coordination Committee (NBCC) in India has set initial indicative targets for blending sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) with aviation turbine fuel (ATF).
The approved targets are 1% SAF indicative blending in ATF for international flights in 2027 and 2% SAF blending target in 2028 for international flights.
The decision aligns with the mandatory phase of the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), effective from 2027.
CORSIA requires airlines globally to offset any growth in carbon dioxide emissions beyond 2020 levels.
The NBCC is an inter-ministerial panel overseeing India’s biofuels program.

What is the ATF and SAF:

Jet fuel, also known as aviation turbine fuel (ATF), is formulated specifically for use in aircraft equipped with gas-turbine engines.
ATF is composed of a diverse mixture of hydrocarbons.
Due to the broad range of petroleum sources, defining jet fuel as a specific ratio of hydrocarbons is not feasible.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is an environmentally friendly alternative produced from sustainable feedstocks.
Its chemical composition closely resembles that of conventional ATF derived from crude oil.
Notably, SAF boasts a considerably lower carbon footprint compared to traditional ATF.

What is the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO):

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that coordinates the principles and techniques of international air navigation.
It was established in 1947.
Its headquarters are situated in Quebec, Canada.
The organization plays a crucial role in fostering the planning and development of international air transport to ensure safe and orderly growth.

What is the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA):

CORSIA is a worldwide market-based initiative that aims to counterbalance global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from international aviation, seeking to maintain emission levels.
This initiative is not applicable to domestic aviation and mandates airlines globally to compensate for any increase in carbon dioxide emissions beyond the 2020 levels.
To achieve emission offsetting, airplane operators will acquire and cancel emissions units from the global carbon market.
In 2018, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) adopted Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) to implement CORSIA within the framework of the Convention on International Civil Aviation.

What is the National Biofuel Coordination Committee (NBCC)

NBCC was constituted in 1960 under the Chairmanship of Minister, Petroleum & Natural Gas to provide overall coordination, effective end-to-end implementation and monitoring of biofuel programmes.
NBCC has been active in the implementation of many projects in areas such as Institutional, Housing, Industrial and Environmental, Transportation, Power, etc.
Various public welfare projects have also been undertaken and completed by the business, though not using CSR money.

4. CBI begins probe into Lokpal complaint on Mahua

Subject :Polity

Section :National body

Context: Cash-for-query’ row

More about the news:

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is reportedly investigating a complaint sent by Lokpal regarding cash-for-query allegations against Trinamool Congress’s Lok Sabha member Mahua Moitra. Moitra is accused of sharing her Parliament login and password with businessman Darshan Hiranandani, allowing him to post questions on her behalf.
The Lokpal forwarded the complaint to the CBI for investigation.
The Ethics Committee of Lok Sabha had earlier recommended Moitra’s expulsion for “unethical conduct” and “serious misdemeanors.”
Moitra admitted to providing login details but denied taking any cash. The CBI is now enquiring into the matter.

Some facts about Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act 2013:

The Act allows for the setting up of an anti-corruption ombudsman called Lokpal at the Centre and Lokauktas in the state..
Composition: The Lokpal will consist of a chairperson and a maximum of eight members.
- Chairperson should have been a Chief Justice of India, or is or has been a judge of the Supreme Court, or an eminent person who fulfills eligibility criteria as specified.
- 50% of the members are to be judicial members provided that not less than 50% of the members belong to the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, OBCs, minorities, and women.
Inquiry Wing: Lokpal will have an Inquiry Wing for conducting preliminary inquiry into any offence alleged to have been committed by a public servant punishable under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
Prosecution Wing: It will also have a Prosecution Wing for the prosecution of public servants in relation to any complaint by the Lokpal under this Act.
Powers:
- The Lokpal will have the power of superintendence and direction over any investigation agency including CBI for cases referred to them by the ombudsman.
- As per the Act, the Lokpal can summon or question any public servant if there exists a prima facie case against the person, even before an investigation agency (such as vigilance or CBI) has begun the probe. Any officer of the CBI investigating a case referred to it by the Lokpal, shall not be transferred without the approval of the Lokpal.
- An investigation must be completed within six months. However, the Lokpal or Lokayukta may allow extensions of six months at a time provided the reasons for the need of such extensions are given in writing.
- Special courts will be instituted to conduct trials on cases referred by Lokpal.
Jurisdiction of Lokpal: It covers a wide range of public servants — from the Prime Minister (PM), ministers and MP, to groups A,B,C,D officers of the central government including the chairperson and members of the Lokpal. However, there are some exceptions for PM:
- Lokpal cannot inquire into allegations against the PM relating to international relations, external and internal security, public order, atomic energy and space.
- Also, complaints against the PM are not to be probed unless the full Lokpal bench considers the initiation of inquiry and at least 2/3rds of the members approve it.
Such an inquiry against the Prime Minister (if conducted) is to be held in camera and if the Lokpal comes to the conclusion that the complaint deserves to be dismissed, the records of the inquiry are not to be published or made available to anyone.
Selection committee:
- Once the search committee submits its recommendation for the Lokpal and its members, a selection committee will consider those names and forward them to the President for his consideration.
- The five-member selection committee comprises the following –Prime Minister (chairperson), Lok Sabha Speaker, Leader of the Opposition, Chief Justice of India and An Eminent jurist nominated by the President.

5. Eight months on, states are still waiting for 3HP TB preventive drugs

Subject : Science and Tech

Section: Health

Context:

Eight months after the Prime Minister launched the pan-India rollout of a shorter TB Preventive Treatment (TPT) in March 2023 called the 3HP — once-weekly isoniazid-rifapentine for 12 weeks — States are yet to receive the 3HP combination drug from the Central TB Division.

Details:

Tamil Nadu and Kerala have already begun using 3HP for TB preventive treatment despite not receiving the drug supply.
Since treatment with 3HP involves only 12 doses, compliance is better, adverse effects of the drugs are less and treatment completion is better compared with 180 doses of isoniazid monotherapy.
Less than 20% of TB infections are due to household contacts being exposed to the index case.
TB preventive therapy can halt the progression of TB disease very effectively for many years.
In India, there are greater chances of getting re-infected after completing the TB preventive therapy. and reinfection may reverse the protection.

Hepatotoxicity:

Hepatotoxicity implies chemical-driven liver damage. Drug-induced liver injury is a cause of acute and chronic liver disease caused specifically by medications and the most common reason for a drug to be withdrawn from the market after approval.
The cases of hepatotoxicity have been reduced with 3HP drug regime.

About TB:

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious airborne bacterial disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
TB commonly affects the lungs (pulmonary TB) but can also affect other parts (extrapulmonary TB)
Tuberculosis spreads from person to person through the air, when people who are infected with TB infection cough, sneeze or otherwise transmit respiratory fluids through the air.
About 30-40% of the Indian population has latent TB infection, and 5-10% of those with latent infection will develop TB disease over the course of their lives.
Smear microscopy forms the bulk of TB testing (despite its low sensitivity) and molecular testing constitutes just 23%.
India should invest more in TB screening using digital chest X-rays and molecular testing for TB disease confirmation.

Multidrug-Resistant TB (MDR-TB):

In MDR-TB, the bacteria that cause TB develop resistance to antimicrobial drugs used to cure the disease.
MDR-TB does not respond to at least isoniazid and rifampicin, the 2 most powerful anti-TB drugs.
Treatment options for MDR-TB are limited and expensive.
CBNAAT (Cartridges Based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test) is used for early diagnosis of MDR-TB.

Extensively Drug-Resistant TB (XDR-TB):

XDR-TB is a form of multidrug-resistant TB with additional resistance to more anti-TB drugs.
People who are resistant to isoniazid and rifampicin, plus any fluoroquinolone and at least one of three injectable second-line drugs (amikacin, kanamycin, capreomycin) are said to have XDR-TB.

National Strategic Plan for TB Elimination:

It is a framework to guide the activities of all stakeholders whose work is relevant to TB elimination in India.
It provides goals and strategies for the country’s response to the disease during the period 2017 to 2025.
It aims to direct the attention of all stakeholders on the most important interventions or activities that the RNTCP believes will bring about significant changes in the incidence, prevalence and mortality of TB.
It will guide the development of the national project implementation plan (PIP) and state PIPs, as well as district health action plans (DHAP) under the National Health Mission (NHM).

Source: The Hindu

6. Cycling of solution needed for dolomite crystals to grow

Subject: Geography

Section: Socioeconomic geography

Context:

A team of researchers from the University of Michigan and Hokkaido University in Sapporo, Japan have finally succeeded in growing a common mineral (dolomite) in the laboratory under the conditions believed to have formed it naturally, thanks to a new theory developed from atomic simulations.

Dolomite:

Limestone with more than 10% of magnesium is called dolomite.
Modern dolomite is primarily found in natural environments with pH or salinity fluctuations.
This resource is distributed in the states of Madhya Pradesh(29%), Andhra Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Odisha, Karnataka, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Maharashtra
Chhattisgarh is the largest dolomite-producing state of India, and it contributes more than 30% of the total production of the country
The economic uses of Dolomite are chiefly Metallurgical; as refractories, as flux in blast furnaces.

Top Dolomite Suppliers (exporters) by country:

China – 14.3% of the world exports ($)
Belgium – 12% ($)
Spain – 8.87% ($)
Canada – 8.18% ($)
Brazil – 8.15% ($)

Growing Dolomite in the lab:

Dolomite is very abundant in rocks older than 100 million years, but nearly absent in younger formations.
It is a key mineral in the Dolomite mountains in Italy, Niagara Falls, the White Cliffs of Dover and Utah’s Hoodoos.
The secret to finally growing dolomite in the lab was removing defects in the mineral structure as it grows.
When minerals form in water, atoms usually deposit neatly onto the edge of the growing crystal surface. However, the growth edge of dolomite consists of alternating rows of calcium and magnesium.
In water, calcium and magnesium will randomly attach to the growing dolomite crystal, often lodging into the wrong spot and creating defects that prevent additional layers of dolomite from forming. These defects get dissolved when washed with water.
Repeatedly rinsing away these defects- with rain or tidal cycles- allows a dolomite layer to form in only a matter of years. Over geologic time, mountains of dolomite can accumulate.
To simulate dolomite growth accurately, the researchers needed to calculate how strongly or loosely atoms would attach to an existing dolomite surface. And scientists have calculated it with the help of precise software.

Source: The Hindu

7. Is India lagging in measles vaccination?

Subject : Science and Tech

Section: Health

Context:

A new report from the World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said measles cases in 2022 have increased by 18%, and deaths by 43% globally, compared to 2021.

Details of the report:

This takes the estimated number of measles cases to nine million and deaths to 1,36,000, mostly among children.
Globally 22 million children did not get their first measles shot in 2022 and half of them live in 10 countries including India, where an estimated 1.1 million infants did not get the first dose of the vaccine.
India’s Universal Immunisation Programme is one of the largest public health programmes in the world targeting close to 2.67 crore newborns and 2.9 crore pregnant women annually.
Measles vaccination averted 56 million deaths between 2000 and 2021.
The pandemic has led to setbacks in surveillance and immunisation efforts across the globe leaving millions of children vulnerable to diseases like measles.

Measles:

Measles is a contagious disease caused by a virus, which spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Measles starts with a cough, runny nose, red eyes, and fever. Then a rash of tiny, red spots breaks out. It starts at the head and spreads to the rest of the body.
It affects mainly children causing significant morbidity and mortality.
Measles can be prevented with the MMR vaccine. The vaccine protects against three diseases — measles, mumps and rubella. Two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective.

Source: The Hindu

8. Time for version 2.0: IUCN Red List outdated and unreliable, claim scientists in new paper

Subject :Environment

Section: Biodiversity

Context:

Scientists and conservationists across the world have expressed concerns that the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species is outdated and unreliable.

About the IUCN Red List:

Formed in 1964, the Red List is an extinction risk assessment tool.
It is the world’s most comprehensive information source on the global extinction risk status of animal, fungus and plant species.
Under the list, species are classified into nine categories of extinction risks: Not evaluated, data deficient, least concern, near threatened, vulnerable, endangered, critically endangered, extinct in the wild and extinct.
It is a powerful tool to inform and catalyse action for biodiversity conservation and policy change, critical to protecting the natural resources we need to survive.
It provides information about range, population size, habitat and ecology, use and/or trade, threats, and conservation actions that will help inform necessary conservation decisions.
Currently, there are more than 150,300 species on The IUCN Red List, with more than 42,100 species threatened with extinction, including 41% of amphibians, 37% of sharks and rays, 36% of reef-building corals, 34% of conifers, 27% of mammals and 13% of birds.

Flaws in the Red List:

Researchers have highlighted the flaws in the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) system of assigning species status.
There are only 150,000 species assessed by IUCN which contributes less than 10 per cent of the two million described species in the world. The percentage gets skewed dramatically after considering the recent global biodiversity estimates, which suggest animal species exceeding 50 million.
While the Red List has about 42,100 species threatened, the IPBES, on the other hand, states that more than a million species are facing potential extinction threats.
Furthermore, more undescribed species may face extinction threats, and many classified species may already be threatened, but IUCN-recommended reassessments every 10 years have not been completed.
The categories and criteria are over 30 years old and have not evolved gravely. The systems were implemented without technological tools such as geographic information systems and remote sensing, and simple assumptions were used without inferences, among others.
Several stork species have been assigned least Concern even though these species had exceedingly little information available about their needs and ecological requirements.
A few species whose conservation status is controversial: Woolly-necked storks (vulnerable) and greater adjutant storks (least concern).

Source: Down To Earth

9. India steps up exploration for critical minerals, including lithium

Subject: Geography

Section: economic geography

Context:

India has stepped up its exploration for critical and strategic minerals, including lithium, rare earth elements, and vanadium, among others.

Details:

Minerals such as antimony, cobalt, gallium, graphite, lithium, nickel, niobium, and strontium, among others, are critical for green technologies, high-tech equipment, aviation, and national defence manufacturing needs.
India has a high import dependence for many of these minerals.

Rare Earth Elements (REEs):

There are 17 REEs — 15 lanthanides (lanthanum, cerium, praseodymium; neodymium, promethium; samarium, europium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, holmium, erbium, thulium, ytterbium and lutetium), scandium, and yttrium. The lanthanide elements are divided into two groups — light and heavy.
REEs are used in industrial applications including electronics, clean energy, aerospace, automotive and defence.
The manufacture of permanent magnets is the single largest and most important end-use for REEs, accounting for 43 per cent of demand in 2021.

Exploration of REEs:

The explorations are spread across states like Chhattisgarh (Raigarh), Maharashtra (Nagpur, Chandrapur, and Sindhudurg), Bihar, Jharkhand (Giridh, Simdega, and Koderna), Odisha (Nayagarh, Ganjam, and Angul), West Bengal (Purulia), Arunachal Pradesh (Kurung Kumey), Assam (West Karbi Anglong), Meghalaya (South West Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi), Uttar Pradesh (Lalitpur and Sonbhadra), Andhra Pradesh (Anantapur, East Godavari, Alluri Sitharama Raju, Chittoor, Annamayya, Nellore, and Prakasam), Kerala (Kottayam, Idukki, Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Wayanad), Telangana (Bhadradri and Jayashankar), Tamil Nadu (Kanyakumari), Karnataka (Chamarajanagar), Gujarat (Chhota Udepur, Aravalli, Mehsana, and Banaskantha), and Rajasthan (Alwar, Udaipur, Sirohi, and Barmer), among others.

Lithium exploration:

Lithium, a non-ferrous alkali mineral, is in demand for the lithium-ion batteries needed to run electric vehicles.
It is vital to India’s EV transition in the public and private transportation space.
India’s only lithium find has been in Resai, to the tune of 5.9 million tonnes (mt).
Lithium exploration projects are underway in at least three states, including Korba district in Chhattisgarh; South Garo Hills and East Garo Hills in Meghalaya; and Jammu, Ramban, Resai, Rajoury and Udhampur in Jammu and Kashmir.
Mineral Exploration and Consultation Ltd is carrying out exploration for lithium and potassium (under the National Mineral Exploration Trust) at the Merak block in the Union Territory of Leh.

Other Critical Minerals:

Vanadium–
- It is an elemental metal, and is rarely found in nature, but once isolated artificially, the formation of an oxide layer stabilises the free metal against further oxidation.
- Exploration for other minerals like vanadium is at the G4 stage in Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh and Kerala.
- Vanadium is used in nuclear reactors, spacecraft and aircraft.
Niobium:
- It is used in jet engines and rockets, girders and beams.
- Its explorations have restarted in West Bengal (Purulia) and Rajasthan (Jhunjhunu and Sikar).

Mineral Exploration and Consultation Ltd. (MECL):

MECL was established as an autonomous Public Sector Company in October 1972, under the administrative control of the Ministry of Mines, Government of India for systematic exploration of minerals, to bridge the gap between the initial discovery of a prospect and its eventual exploitation.
MECL has the Mission to provide high-quality, cost-effective and time-bound geo-scientific services for the exploration and exploitation of minerals.

National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET):

The NMET was established by the Government of India in 2015, in pursuance of subsection(1) of Section 9C of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, with the objective of expediting mineral exploration in the country.

Source: TH Businessline

10. A mangrove shield for Sundarbans

Subject :Environment

Section: Ecosystem

Sundarbans:

Sundarbans are a complex network of islands set in the delta on the Bay of Bengal and spread across West Bengal and Bangladesh.
It is a mangrove area in the delta formed by the confluence of the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna Rivers in the Bay of Bengal.
Sundarban Reserve Forest (SRF) of Bangladesh is the largest mangrove forest in the world.
It spans the area from the Baleswar River in Bangladesh’s division of Khulna to the Hooghly River in India’s state of West Bengal. It comprises closed and open mangrove forests, land used for agricultural purpose, mudflats and barren land, and is intersected by multiple tidal streams and channels. Sundarbans is home to the world’s largest area of mangrove forests.[
Chargheri is the last village on the south-eastern side of the Indian Sundarbans. Garal river passes through it.
The 4.5 million inhabitants of these islands are constantly affected by storms, floods, cyclones, land subsidence and coastal erosion. Saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources and agricultural land has rendered the soil unfit for crops, affected mangrove integrity, resulted in higher temperatures, altered salinity levels and led to habitat loss.

Significance of mangroves in Sundarbans:

Mangroves help arrest soil erosion from rising tides, besides easing wind and water force during a cyclone. They also remove 10 times more carbon from the air because they transfer it to the soil.
They are estimated to save over $65 billion in property damage globally. A village embankment with a mangrove cover is said to be safer from damage than one without.
Mangrove forests are nurseries for shrimps and several kinds of fishes.

Blue Carbon:

Blue carbon is the carbon captured by the world’s ocean and coastal ecosystems.
Blue carbon stocks can be increased by planting mangroves in mudflat areas.
Among all the natural systems, after seagrass, mangroves are the most efficient carbon-trapping systems.
Mangroves capture the carbon and transfer it to the soil, where it stays unaffected even if the tree is destroyed.

Has COP taken note of mangrove conservation?

Anthropological activities are harming mangroves the most.
In 2022, the Mangrove Alliance for Climate (MAC) was launched at COP27 to promote them as a nature-based solution to climate change.
Besides encouraging plantation efforts, member nations are expected to enhance the protection of mangroves through scientific, social, and economic studies, and encourage philanthropy.

Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes (MISHTI) Programme:

It will be taken up for mangrove plantation along the coastline and on salt pan lands, wherever feasible, through convergence between MGNREGS, CAMPA Fund and other sources.
It envisages comprehensively exploring the possible area for the development of Mangroves covering approximately 540 Sq. Kms. spreading across 11 States and 2 Union Territories during five years commencing FY 2023-24 onwards.

Mangrove Alliance for Climate (MAC):

The UAE and Indonesia launched the “Mangrove Alliance for Climate” on the sidelines of the UN climate summit COP27, being held in Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt.
As part of this alliance, an international mangrove research centre will be established in Indonesia which will conduct studies on mangrove ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration and ecotourism.
Aim:
- To strengthen conservation and restoration of mangrove ecosystems worldwide.
- The alliance will raise awareness about the role of mangroves as a “nature-based solution to climate change”.
Partners:
- Spearheaded by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in partnership with Indonesia
- India, Australia, Japan, Spain and Sri Lanka have joined it as partners.

11. Case filed against NCPCR chief for ‘trespassing’ into orphanage

Subject :Polity

Section: National body

Context:

Days after the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) team conducted a surprise inspection at an orphanage in KB Sandra on November 19, an FIR has been registered against panel’s chief Priyank Kanoongo and his team for allegedly trespassing into an orphanage, video graphing the premises and putting a post on his social media account.

What is the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights(NCPCR)?

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has been constituted by the Government of India under the Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005, and is mandated to function for the protection and promotion of child rights.
The Commission is further mandated to monitor the proper and effective implementation of
Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.
Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
Right to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009.
India has acceded to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in 1992 which is an international treaty that makes it incumbent upon the signatory States to take all necessary steps to protect children’s rights enumerated in the Convention.

Appointment For Chairperson of NCPCR:

The Chairperson and Members of the Commission are appointed by the Central government.
The Chairperson shall be appointed on the recommendation of the three members committee constituted by the Central government under the chairmanship of the Minister of Education.

Removal:

The Central Government may by order remove the Chairperson or any other Member from office if the Chairperson other Member:
Is adjudged insolvent.
Engages during his term of office in any paid employment outside the duties of his office.
Refuses to act or becomes incapable of acting.
Is of unsound mind and stands so declared by a competent court.
Has so abused his office as to render his continuance in office detrimental to the public interest.
Is convicted and sentenced to imprisonment for an offense, which in the opinion of the Central Government, involves moral turpitude.

What are the functions and responsibilities of NCPCR?

Examine and review existing safeguards for the protection of child rights and recommend measures for their effective implementation.
Report annually and at other intervals to the central government on the effectiveness of these safeguards.
Investigate violations of child rights and recommend legal proceedings in appropriate cases.
Review existing policies, programs, and activities related to child rights and make recommendations for their improvement.
Promote research in the field of child rights.
Raise awareness of child rights and available safeguards through various means, such as publications, media, and seminars.
Inspect institutions where children are detained or reside, including juvenile homes, and recommend remedial action if necessary.
Investigate complaints and take suo motu notice of issues related to the deprivation and violation of child rights and the non-implementation of laws protecting and developing children.
Apart from the above functions, NCPCR has additional responsibilities. For instance:
The Commission has been mandated under Section 31 of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009 to examine and review the safeguards of the rights provided under the Act and to recommend measures for its effective implementation.
It has been mandated under POCSO Act, 2012 to monitor the designation of Special Courts by State Governments, to monitor the formulation of the guidelines described in section 39 of the Act.
It also has been charged with the monitoring of Child Care Institutions (CCIs) and was instructed to carry out a Social audit of the same by the Supreme Court.

What are the powers of NCPCR?

The Commission, while investigating, shall have all the powers of a Civil court in respect of the following matters:
Summoning and enforcing the attendance of any person from any part of India and examining him/her on oath.
Requiring the discovery and production of any document.
Receiving evidence on affidavits.
Requisitioning any public record or copy thereof from any court or office.
Issuing commissions for the examination of witnesses and documents.
After the inquiry, the Commission has the power to can take actions like
Recommending to the concerned Government or authority the initiation of proceedings for prosecution against the concerned person(s).
Approaching the Supreme Court or the High Court concerned for directions, orders, or writs.
Recommending to the concerned Government or authority for the grant of such interim relief to the victim or the members of the family.

What are the various initiatives taken by NCPCR to carry out its mandate?

Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) e-Box

It is an online complaint box for reporting child sexual abuse.
It is an NCPCR initiative to help children report such crimes directly to the Commission.
The online complaint management system enables easy reporting and timely action against the offenders under the POCSO Act, 2012.

Samvardhan

The Commission initiated an exercise of vulnerability mapping through the programme Samvardhan to Combat Child Trafficking along with other existing mechanisms.

MASI App

The Commission has developed an application “MASI”- Monitoring App for Seamless Inspection for real-time monitoring of Child Care Institutions (CCIs) across the country.

GHAR – GO

NCPCR has developed and launched a portal, namely GHAR – GO Home and Re-Unite (Portal for Restoration and Repatriation of Child).
The GHAR portal has been developed to digitally monitor and track the restoration and repatriation of children.

12. CCI buys cotton at MSP as prices drop

Subject: Geography

Section: Socioeconomic geography

Context:

With cotton prices remaining subdued due to lack of demand, the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) has purchased nearly two lakh bales of cotton at the Minimum Support Price (MSP).

About Cotton Corporation of India

Cotton Corporation of India was established in 1970 under Companies Act 1956.
It’s a Government of India’s corporate agency, engaged in diverse activities related to trade, procurement, and export of cotton.
CCI is governed by the Textile Policy 1985 issued by Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.
CCI operates in the following states as of now – Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharastra, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Orissa.
The major role of the CCI is to undertake price support operations, whenever the market prices of cotton falls below the minimum support prices (MSP).

About Crop Cotton

Cotton is a kharif crop which requires 6 to 8 months to mature. Its time of sowing and harvesting differs in different parts of the country depending upon the climatic conditions.
Cotton is the crop of tropical and sub-tropical areas and requires uniformly high temperature varying between 21°C and 30°C. The growth of cotton is retarded when the temperature falls below 20°C.
Cotton is a drought – resistant crop ideal for arid climates and requires an average annual rainfall of 50- 100 cm.
It requires at least 210 frost free days in a year.
It occupies just 2.1 % of the world’s arable land, yet it meets 27% of the world’s textiles need. In addition to its fibre used in textiles and apparel, food products are also derived from cotton like edible oil and animal feed from the seed.
India is the second largest producer of cotton in the world after China.
Between 2011 and 2018, India implemented a Cotton Technical Assistance Programme (Cotton TAP-I) for seven African countries namely Benin, Burkina Faso, Mali and Chad and also Uganda, Malawi and Nigeria.
The technical assistance focused on improving the competitiveness of the cotton and cotton-based textiles and apparel industry in these countries through a series of interventions which had significant outcomes leading to a demand for a follow on project.

13. India announces phased introduction of biogas blending

Subject :Environment

Section: Climate Change

Context:

India will start blending compressed biogas with natural gas to boost domestic demand and cut reliance on natural gas imports, the government said in a statement on Saturday.

More about News:

The mandatory phased introduction will start at 1% for use in automobiles and households from April 2025.
The share of mandatory blending will then be increased to about 5% by 2028.
India, which is one of the world’s largest importers of oil and gas, ships in about half of its overall gas consumption and wants to cut its import bill.
The steps are aimed at helping India achieve net zero emissions targets by 2070.

What is Biogas?

It mainly comprises hydro-carbon which is combustible and can produce heat and energy when burnt.
Biogas is produced through a biochemical process in which certain types of bacteria convert the biological wastes into useful bio-gas.
Since the useful gas originates from a biological process, it has been termed as bio-gas.
Methane gas is the main constituent of biogas.

What is the Significance of Biogas Adoption?

Pollution Free Cities:

The biogas solution can help make our cities clean and pollution-free.
Leaching of toxic substances from landfills contaminated the groundwater.
Decomposing organic matter releases huge amounts of methane into the environment, causing air pollution and global warming as methane is a very potent GHG.

Handling Organic Waste:

Installing large-scale municipal biogas systems can help cities handle organic waste efficiently to overcome the environmental and socio-economic challenges posed by overburdened landfills.
Municipal waste can be fed into these plants to create clean and green fuel, along with biofertilizers, while keeping the cities clean and hygienic.

Helpful for Women:

Switching to biogas could be good for women because they won’t be exposed to harmful smoke and pollution.
Over four million people die every year all over the world due to high levels of indoor air pollution caused by the burning of fossil fuels and biomass.
The female members of a household are affected by indoor pollution as they spend more time inside the house.

Will Transform Energy Dependence:

Biogas can play a critical role in transforming the energy dependence of rural and agricultural communities, which majorly depends on burning wood, dung, charcoal, coal and other fossil fuels for their energy needs.
Only 26.53% of the total power generated in India is from renewable sources.
The high dependence on non-renewable sources is the leading cause of the long-standing energy problems in the country.

Addresses Handling of Livestock Manure:

Installing biogas plants at the micro- and macro-level can address the critical issues of handling livestock manure and agricultural wastes, deteriorating soil quality, water pollution and deforestation.

Reduces Carbon Dioxide Emissions:

A fully functional biogas digester, for every tonne of feedstock processed, can reduce approximately 2.83 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions in a year.
Using biogas digesters to convert organic waste into clean energy can significantly contribute to countering challenges like pollution, climate change, livelihood inequalities and health in individual households as well as entire communities.

Will Improve Soil Quality:

The digestate, a by-product generated in the biogas plants, can be used as a biofertilizer as it is rich in organic content and revitalizes the soil.

What are the Related Initiatives taken by the Government?

SATAT :

SATAT stands for Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation.
It is an initiative with the objective of setting up Compressed Biogas production plants, and make it available for market use for automotives by inviting expression of interest through potential investors.

14. With Turmeric Board set to be a reality, no yellow twist this time

Subject : Polity

Section: National body

About Turmeric

Turmeric (Curcuma longa): It is a perennial herbaceous plant of the ginger family. The plant’s underground stems or rhizomes have been used as a spice, dye, medicine, and religious maker since antiquity.
Climate: It requires temperatures between 20 and 30 °C (68 and 86 °F) and a considerable amount of annual rainfall to thrive.
Largest Producer: India is the largest producer and exporter of turmeric in the world. Turmeric occupies about 6% of the total area under spices and condiments in India.
Largest Producer State: Telangana was the leading producer of turmeric in India during 2018. Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu were second and third in the ranking that year.
Significance: The spice’s color comes mainly from curcumin, a bright yellow phenolic compound that has been in the news for its ostensible potential to fight cancer. As a result, the demand for turmeric with high curcumin content has risen.

About National Turmeric Board

Nature: It is not a statutory body.

Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Commerce & Industry.

Composition of the National Turmeric Board

Chairperson appointed by the Central Government, responsible for providing strategic direction to the Board’s activities.
Secretary appointed by the Department of Commerce, responsible for the day-to-day administration of the Board.
Board Members
Ministry Representatives: Officials from the Ministry of AYUSH, Departments of Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Commerce & Industry of the Union Government to provide governmental perspective.
State Government Representatives: Senior officials from three states on a rotational basis to ensure regional perspectives are considered.
Research and Industry Experts: Representatives from select national/state institutions involved in turmeric research and industry.
Turmeric Stakeholders: Representatives from turmeric farmers and exporters to represent the interests of the community.

Objectives of the National Turmeric Board

Increasing Awareness and Consumption

The Board will initiate awareness campaigns highlighting the health and wellness benefits of turmeric, aiming to increase its consumption within India.
Collaborate with the Ministry of AYUSH to promote the use of turmeric in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda.

Developing International Markets

Conduct market research to identify potential international markets for turmeric and its products.
Facilitate the participation of Indian turmeric exporters in international trade fairs and exhibitions.
Collaborate with the Ministry of Commerce & Industry to negotiate favourable trade agreements that benefit turmeric exports.

Research and Development

Invest in research and development to create new turmeric-based products, exploring both culinary and medicinal applications.
Document and preserve traditional knowledge related to turmeric for future generations while ensuring its ethical use.

Capacity Building and Skill Development

Organize training programs for turmeric growers, focusing on modern cultivation techniques, sustainable farming practices, and post-harvest handling.
Provide workshops to enhance the skills of farmers in areas like organic farming, pest management, and irrigation practices.

Ensuring Quality and Food Safety

Develop and enforce quality standards for turmeric and turmeric products to meet international regulations.
Implement food safety measures across the turmeric supply chain to ensure the products meet high-quality standards.

15. SEBI approves rules for index providers

Subject : Economy

Section: Capital market

Context:

The market regulator introduces a regulatory framework for index providers with the objective of fostering transparency and accountability; SEBI also amends rules to encourage Small & Medium REITs with an asset value of at least ₹50 crore and to strengthen investor protection in AIFs

What are market index providers?

Index providers are companies that design and calculate indexes.
They have the responsibility to set the rules that decide what securities to include in each index, how the index will be managed and how securities will be added or removed from that index over time.

Need for regulation

SEBI had stressed the need for greater oversight on currently unregulated index providers like NSE Indices (a National Stock Exchange subsidiary) and the Asia Index Pvt. Ltd. (a BSE joint venture with Dow Jones), citing their growing dominance due to the “proliferation” of index funds.
A draft regulatory framework for index providers mooted by the market watchdog in December had raised concerns about possible conflicts of interest that could arise in their governance.
These firms could “exercise discretion through changes in methodology resulting in exclusion or inclusion of a stock in the index or change in the weights of the constituent stocks” and their decisions can impact the volumes, liquidity and price of such stocks, as well as investors’ returns from index funds.

Securities Exchange Board of India (SEBI)

SEBI is a statutory body established on April 12, 1992 in accordance with the provisions of the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992.

Background:

Before SEBI came into existence, Controller of Capital Issues was the regulatory authority; it derived authority from the Capital Issues (Control) Act, 1947.
In April, 1988 the SEBI was constituted as the regulator of capital markets in India under a resolution of the Government of India.
Initially SEBI was a non-statutory body without any statutory power.
It became autonomous and given statutory powers by SEBI Act 1992.

Aim:

To protect the interests of investors in securities and to promote the development of, and regulate the securities market.
It is the regulator of the securities and commodity market in India owned by the Government of India.

Powers & Functions:

It is a quasi-legislative and quasi-judicial body which can draft regulations, conduct inquiries, pass rulings and impose penalties.
To protect the interests of Indian investors in the securities market.
To promote the development and hassle-free functioning of the securities market.
To regulate the business operations of the securities market.
To serve as a platform for portfolio managers, bankers, stockbrokers, investment advisers, merchant bankers, registrars, share transfer agents and other people.

What is a Real estate Investment Trust?

REIT refers to an entity created with the sole purpose of channeling investible funds into operating, owning or financing income-producing real estate.
REITs are modeled on the lines of mutual funds and provide investors with an extremely liquid way to get a stake in real estate.
It is a type of security that provides all types of investors, big or small, with an outlet for regular income, portfolio diversification, and long-term capital appreciation. Like any other security, REITs can enlist themselves on a stock exchange.
In India, the REIT were introduced by the SEBI in 2007.

16. Infertility treatment finds a place in political manifestos

Subject :Science and Tech

Section: Health

Context:

Doctors welcome inclusion of infertility, which is recognised as public health issue by WHO; they say policy on treatment can mitigate the financial burden and emotional impact of infertility on family life; States are planning to give financial aid.

Different Methods for treatment of Infertility:

IVF

In vitro fertilization

It is the most commonly used assisted reproductive technology (ART).
In vitro fertilization, as its name-fertilization is done by fusing ovum from the female donor and sperm from the male donor outside the body under strict laboratory conditions.
This results in a zygote, or famously known as a test-tube baby. After embryo culturing, an embryo is transferred to the uterus of the mother.
This method is commonly performed in the case of women with damaged or clogged Fallopian tubes.

Zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT)

Zygote intra-fallopian transfer (ZIFT), also known as Tubal Embryo Transfer is analogous to IVF.
ZIFT is an ART procedure where fertilization happens in a laboratory. The thus formed zygote is then conveyed to the Fallopian tube of the mother using laparoscopy.
ZIFT proceeds as follows: egg retrieval from ovaries, fertilization, carrying the zygote into the uterine tubes for implantation and further development.
ZIFT is not for women with abnormal uterine tubes.

Gamete Intra-Fallopian Transfer (GIFT)

Unlike IVF and ZIFT, GIFT is an in-vivo fertilization procedure where the gametes –sperm and ova are conveyed directly into the fallopian tube.
In GIFT, fertilization and zygote formation is more natural as it takes place within the female body.
However, this technique is carried out only if there is enough sperm count and at least one fallopian tube is functional. GIFT is an alternative for IVF.

17. Antarctica’s ozone hole expands mid spring since 2001

Subject :Environment

Section: Climate Change

Context:

The core (middle stratospheric layer) of the Antarctic ozone in mid spring (October) has experienced a 26% reduction since 2004, contrary to previously reported recovery trends in total ozone, according to a study published recently in the journal Nature Communications.

What is the Ozone Layer?

The ozone layer, found in the stratosphere (good ozone), acts as a protective gas shield that absorbs harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, safeguarding us from the adverse effects of excessive UV exposure.

Skin cancer rates are significantly influenced by UV radiation, underscoring the importance of preserving the ozone layer.

What is an Ozone Hole?

About:

An ozone hole is a region of the stratosphere over Antarctica where the ozone layer is exceptionally depleted.
The ozone hole is not technically a “hole” where no ozone is present. Scientists use the word hole as a metaphor for the area in which ozone concentrations drop below the historical threshold of 220 Dobson Units.
The size of the ozone hole over Antarctica varies from year to year, typically opening in August and closing by November or December.
This annual fluctuation is driven by unique climatic conditions over the region.

Mechanism Behind Ozone Hole:

The opening of the ozone hole is a result of the Earth’s rotation, which generates specific winds over the enclosed landmass of Antarctica.
The polar vortex, a band of strong winds around the poles, plays a vital role in ozone hole dynamics.
During winter, polar vortex forms due to temperature differences and acts as a protective barrier, keeping polar air separate from warmer, lower-latitude air.
This isolation creates a cold environment for polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs), which trigger ozone-depleting reactions.
The chemical reactions that occur on the surface of PSCs are responsible for the activation of chlorine and bromine compounds. These compounds, particularly chlorine, are catalysts in ozone-depleting reactions. When exposed to sunlight, they trigger the breakdown of ozone molecules.
The size and strength of the polar vortex directly impact ozone depletion. When it weakens in spring, mixing with warmer air from lower latitudes gradually closes the ozone hole, replenishing the ozone layer.

Cause of the Ozone Hole in 2023:

Scientists suspect that the substantial ozone hole observed in 2023 may be attributed to volcanic eruptions in Tonga during December 2022 and January 2023.
Unlike conventional volcanic eruptions, which generally release gasses confined to the lower atmosphere, this eruption propelled a significant amount of water vapor into the stratosphere.
This water vapor, in addition to other ozone-depleting elements like bromine and iodine, impacted the ozone layer through chemical reactions, altering its heating rate.