Daily Prelims Notes 27 August 2024

Daily Prelims Notes

27 August 2024

Table Of Contents

1. Great Indian Bustard conservation efforts struggle as numbers dwindle to 2 in Karnataka
2. Unified Lending Interface (ULI): A Transformative Platform for Seamless Credit Delivery
3. Impact of New Mining Levies on Consumer Power Bills and Industrial Margins: ICRA Analysis
4. BRICS: India’s Stance on the Proposal for National Currencies and a Common Currency
5. Education Ministry defines ‘literacy’, ‘full literacy’
6. Bail should not suffer for lack of people to stand surety: SC
7. Gopichand Thotakura, India’s first civilian space tourist, recieves warm welcome in Delhi
8. On the unrest in the Balochistan region
9. Colombo port welcomes Indian, Chinese warships on the same day
10. Japan scrambles jets after Chinese aircraft ‘violates’ airspace
11. Chandrayaan-3’s Pragyan Rover Unveils Evidence of Ancient Lunar Magma Ocean
12. SpaceX’s Pioneering Private Spacewalk: A High-Risk Test of New Technology
13. Rare Recession of Sea at Vizag Beach Sparks Caution

1. Great Indian Bustard conservation efforts struggle as numbers dwindle to 2 in Karnataka

Sub: Env

Sec: Species in news

Context:

• Despite efforts by the Karnataka government to protect the Great Indian Bustard (GIB) through the establishment of a sanctuary in Siruguppa, Ballari district, the bird’s population has declined from six to just two in 2023.

Details:

• The state declared a 14-square-kilometre area in Siruguppa as a GIB sanctuary, with the Karnataka Mining Environment Restoration Corporation (KMERC) allocating Rs 24 crore for a special conservation project across 24 villages.
• The GIB population has been declining due to habitat loss, with fewer than 150 individuals remaining in the wild, primarily in Rajasthan.
• The species is classified as ‘Critically Endangered’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
• Emergency actions include geo-tagging the remaining GIBs, artificial incubation of eggs, reintroduction of young birds, and raising awareness among local communities.
• The state government has allocated Rs 6 crore to build a research centre in Siruguppa and to explore GPS-tagging and artificial breeding.

What is the Great Indian Bustard?

• One of the heaviest flying birds endemic to the Indian subcontinent.
• State Bird of Rajasthan.

Habitat: 

• Untamed, Arid grasslands.
• Among the heaviest birds with flight, GIBs prefer grasslands as their habitats
• A Maximum number of GIBs were found in Jaisalmer and the Indian Army-controlled field firing range near Pokhran, Rajasthan.
• Other areas: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

Population:

• As per the studies conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India, there are around 150 Great Indian Bustards left across the country which includes about 128 birds in Rajasthan and less than 10 birds each in the States of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.
• While the GIBs’ historic range included much of the Indian sub-continent, it has now shrunk to just 10 per cent of that.

Protection Status:

• IUCN Status: Critically Endangered.
• Listed in Wildlife Protection Act’s Schedule 1.

Significance of GIBs in the ecosystem-

• Terrestrial birds spend most of their time on the ground, feeding on insects, lizards, grass seeds, etc. GIBs are considered the flagship bird species of grassland and hence barometers of the health of grassland ecosystems.

Why is the Great Indian Bustard endangered?

• Among the biggest threats to the GIBs are overhead power transmission lines.
• Due to their poor frontal vision, the birds can’t spot the power lines from a distance, and are too heavy to change course when close. Thus, they collide with the cables and die.
• According to the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), in Rajasthan, 18 GIBs die every year after colliding with overhead power lines.

2. Unified Lending Interface (ULI): A Transformative Platform for Seamless Credit Delivery

Sub: Eco

Sec: Monetary Policy

• Introduction of Unified Lending Interface (ULI):
  • RBI Governor announced that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is piloting a new technology platform called Unified Lending Interface (ULI).
  • This platform is designed to facilitate friction-less credit and improve the delivery of banking services, especially to farmers and MSME borrowers.
• Impact on the Lending Process:
  • Meeting Unmet Credit Demand:
  • By digitizing access to essential data, ULI is expected to address the large unmet demand for credit across various sectors.
• Nationwide Introduction on the Anvil:
  • A nationwide rollout of ULI is anticipated soon, which will extend its benefits across the country.

About ULI

What is ULI?

• Unified Lending Interface (ULI) is a digital platform aimed at smoothing the lending processes in India.
• The platform is designed to cater to the large unmet demand for credit across various sectors, with a particular focus on agricultural and medium, small, and micro enterprises (MSME) borrowers.

Why Was ULI Launched?

• The launch of ULI is part of the RBI’s broader strategy to enhance financial inclusion and improve credit delivery across India, particularly for underserved sectors and regions.

Key Features of ULI:

• Reduction in Turnaround Time (TAT):
  • ULI is expected to reduce the turnaround time for processing and sanctioning loans by simplifying the complexities involved for both lenders and borrowers.
• Seamless Flow of Information:
  • The platform facilitates the seamless flow of digital information required by lenders, including not only financial data but also land records from multiple data providers.
• Common and Standardized APIs:
  • ULI’s architecture is designed for a plug and play approach with common and standardized application programming interfaces (APIs), ensuring quicker access to diverse sources of information.

How Will ULI Work?

• ULI will ease the flow of necessary information from multiple data providers to lenders, significantly reducing the time taken for credit appraisal, especially for rural and smaller borrowers.
• By enabling quicker access to diverse information, ULI is set to streamline the lending process and make it more efficient.

Connection to RBI’s Frictionless Credit Platform:

• RBI’s Frictionless Credit Platform:
  • Launched in August 2023, this platform aimed to simplify the lending process, allowing banks to lend to borrowers within seconds.
• Renaming to ULI:
  • The frictionless credit platform has now been renamed as ULI and expanded to include not only banks but also non-bank lenders like fintechs and NBFCs.

Broader Vision Behind ULI:

• Integration with India’s Digital Infrastructure:
  • ULI is part of a broader initiative to integrate it with other digital infrastructure components like Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile (JAM), Unified Payments Interface (UPI), and Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).
• Revolutionizing Digital Public Infrastructure:
  • This integration is seen as a revolutionary step in India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) journey, further enhancing the ease and accessibility of financial services.

3. Impact of New Mining Levies on Consumer Power Bills and Industrial Margins: ICRA Analysis

Sub: Eco

Sec: Fiscal  Policy

• Supreme Court Verdict and New Mining Levies:
  • The Supreme Court has enabled States to impose new mining levies, which could significantly impact various industries, particularly coal-fired thermal power producers and steel and aluminum manufacturers.
• Potential Increase in Power Tariffs:
• Impact on Coal-Fired Thermal Power Producers:
  • The new levies could lead to a 0.6% to 1.5% increase in costs for coal-fired thermal power producers.
  • This cost increase is likely to be passed on to consumers, potentially raising power tariffs.
• Impact on Steel and Aluminum Industry Margins:
• Margin Shrinkage:
  • The levies are expected to reduce the margins of domestic steel and aluminum producers.
• Specific Case of Odisha:
  • In mineral-rich Odisha, a 2004 law permits a cess of up to 15% on iron ore and coal mining.
  • If fully enforced, this could lead to an 11% rise in the landed cost of iron ore, reducing the competitiveness of steel firms.
• Case Study: Jharkhand’s Modest Levy:
• Minimal Impact from Jharkhand’s Levy:
• Jharkhand has imposed a modest rise of ₹100 per tonne on iron ore and coal.
• This increase is expected to have a minimal impact of 30-40 basis points (bps) on the operating margins of steel industries.
• Uncertainty from Potential Retrospective Application:
• Retrospective Cess:
• There is uncertainty regarding the possibility of States applying the cess retrospectively, which could burden firms with past tax liabilities.
• However, the Supreme Court has allowed staggered payments over 12 years starting April 1, 2026, with no interest and penalties for past dues.

Overview and Key Amendments: Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957

The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act) is a cornerstone legislation in India that governs the mining sector.

Primary Objectives of the MMDR Act:

• Development of the Mining Industry: To foster the growth and development of the mining sector in India.
• Mineral Conservation: To ensure the conservation of mineral resources for future generations.
• Transparency and Efficiency: To bring transparency and efficiency to the process of mineral exploitation.

Key Amendments to the MMDR Act:

2015 Amendment:

This comprehensive amendment introduced several key reforms to modernize the mining sector:

• Auction Method:
  • Mandated the auctioning of mineral concessions to enhance transparency in the allocation process.
• District Mineral Foundation (DMF):
  • Established the DMF to benefit areas and communities affected by mining activities.
• National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET):
  • Created the NMET to boost mineral exploration activities across the country.
• Penalties for Illegal Mining:
  • Implemented stringent penalties to curb illegal mining activities and ensure compliance with regulations.

2016 and 2020 Amendments:

• These amendments addressed minor issues in the mining sector to ensure its smooth functioning.

2021 Amendment:

Introduced significant changes in the classification and management of mines:

• Distinction Between Captive and Merchant Mines:
  • Captive Mines: Operated by companies to produce minerals exclusively for their own use. The amendment allowed captive mines to sell up to 50% of their annual mineral production in the open market after meeting the needs of the end-use plant for which the block was originally allocated.
  • Merchant Mines: Operated to produce minerals for sale in the open market. The extracted minerals are sold to various buyers, including industries without their own mines.
• Auction-Only Concessions:
  • Ensured that all private-sector mineral concessions were granted through auctions, promoting transparency and fairness in the allocation process.

2023 Amendment:

The 2023 amendment was focused on strengthening the exploration and extraction of critical minerals:

• Focus on Critical Minerals:
  • Removed 6 minerals from the list of 12 atomic minerals previously limited to exploration by State agencies.
  • Empowered the government to exclusively auction mineral concessions for critical minerals essential for India’s economic development and national security.
• Exploration Licenses:
  • Introduced exploration licenses to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and engage junior mining companies in exploring deep-seated and critical minerals.
  • Aimed at reducing dependence on imports and encouraging private sector involvement in the exploration and mining of critical minerals.
• Recognition of Strategic Minerals:
  • Recognized the importance of minerals like lithium, graphite, cobalt, titanium, and rare earth elements for future technologies and India’s commitment to energy transition and achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

4. BRICS: India’s Stance on the Proposal for National Currencies and a Common Currency

Sub: IR

Sec: Int groupings

• Context of the Proposal:
  • The BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) are considering a proposal to use national currencies for trade and financial transactions within the bloc.
  • This initiative is part of a broader attempt to ‘de-dollarise’ the economies of the member countries.
• India’s Conditional Consideration:
• Non-Binding Agreement:
• India may consider the proposal favourably if the decision remains non-binding, allowing the country to opt-in at its discretion.
• Selective Currency Settlement:
• India seeks the freedom to choose which BRICS members it will engage in currency settlements with, potentially excluding China due to strategic concerns.
• Upcoming BRICS Summit:
  • The next BRICS summit is scheduled for October 21-22 in Kazan, Russia.
  • The agenda is likely to prominently feature discussions on the use of local currencies and the creation of a common BRICS currency.
• Economic and Diplomatic Considerations:
• India’s Examination of the Proposal:
• New Delhi is carefully assessing the economic and diplomatic benefits of the proposal while being cautious about potential vulnerabilities, particularly in relation to China.
• Concerns Over Currency Dominance:
  • A significant issue is the potential dominance of the Chinese Yuan in a common BRICS currency, as it might have a greater weightage due to its economic size.
  • India is evaluating whether this dominance would be acceptable or if it might compromise India’s economic interests.
• Challenges with a Common Currency:
  • The proposed BRICS currency is expected to be notional, with its value pegged to a basket of the member countries’ currencies.
  • Determining the value of such a currency is complex, especially if one currency (such as the Yuan) appears to dominate the basket.

De-dollarisation:

De-dollarisation is the process of reducing the US dollar’s dominance in global markets. It involves substituting the US dollar with other currencies for trading commodities, managing forex reserves, engaging in bilateral trade agreements, and investing in dollar-denominated assets.

Key Reasons for De-dollarisation:

• Mitigating Geopolitical Risks: Countries aim to protect their economies from the geopolitical influence exerted by the US through its control over the global economy.
• Economic Sovereignty: Reducing reliance on the US dollar helps nations enhance their economic independence and resilience.
• Diversification: Central banks are diversifying their reserves to include other currencies, minimizing risks associated with the US dollar.

In essence, de-dollarisation is driven by the desire to reduce the US’s disproportionate influence on global markets and safeguard national economic interests.

5. Education Ministry defines ‘literacy’, ‘full literacy’

Subject: Schemes

Sec: Education

Context:

In a letter to all States, the Ministry of Education (MoE) has defined ‘literacy,’ and what it means to achieve ‘full literacy,’ in the light of the renewed push for adult literacy under the New India Literacy Programme (NILP), a five-year programme (2022-27), which aims to onboard one crore learners per year above 15 years across all States and union territories.

More on News:

• Literacy may be understood as the ability to read, write, and compute with comprehension, i.e. to identify, understand, interpret and create along with critical life skills such as digital literacy, financial literacy etc, and full literacy (to be considered equivalent to 100% literacy) will be achieving 95% literacy in a State/UT that may be considered as equivalent to fully literate.
• A non-literate person may be considered as literate under the NILP, as per the aforementioned definition when she/he has been declared literate after taking the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT). 
• According to the Census 2011, India faces a significant literacy challenge, with 25.76 crore non-literate individuals in the 15 years and above age group, comprising 9.08 crore males and 16.68 crore females.
• All States and union territories to strive for Bharat reaching full literacy by 2030 with the ULLAS (NILP) initiative.

New India Literacy Programme:

Aim:

• To cover a target of 5.00 crore non-literates in the age group of 15 years and above.

The scheme has five components:

• Foundational Literacy and Numeracy
• Critical Life Skills
• Vocational Skills Development
• Basic Education
• Continuing Education

Identification of Beneficiaries:

• Door-to-door surveys on a mobile app are conducted by surveyors in the States/UTs to identify beneficiaries.
• Non-literates can also register directly through a mobile app.

Volunteerism for Teaching and Learning:

• Volunteerism for teaching and learning, and volunteers can register through the mobile app.

Implementation through Technology:

• Implemented predominantly through the online mode and is based on technology.
• The teaching and learning material and resources are available on the DIKSHA platform of NCERT and can be accessed through mobile apps.

Dissemination of Foundational Literacy and Numeracy:

• Modes like TV, Radio, Samajik Chetna Kendra, etc. are also used for dissemination of Foundational Literacy and Numeracy.

Eligibility:

• All non-literates above 15 years of age are eligible to avail of the benefits of the scheme.

6. Bail should not suffer for lack of people to stand surety: SC

Subject: Polity

Sec: Constitution

Context:

Gandhi got bail in 13 separate cases of criminal breach of trust, cheating and criminal intimidation, but could only get two pairs of people to stand surety for his bail. He faced the prospect of staying behind bars for his inability to find 22 others to sign as surety for the remaining 11 First Information Reports (FIRs).

More on News:

• “Whether it is to get individuals to stand as a guarantor for a loan transaction or as a surety in a criminal proceeding, the choice for a person is very limited. It will very often be a close relative or a longtime friend,”.
• In cases like that of Gandhi, the Supreme Court said, judges should pass a “reasonable and proportionate” order which would both protect the person’s fundamental right under Article 21 (right to life) of the Constitution and at the same time guarantee his presence.
• Sureties are essential to ensure the presence of the accused, released on bail.
• At the same time, where the court is faced with the situation where the accused enlarged on bail is unable to find sureties in multiple cases, there is also a need to balance the requirement of furnishing the sureties with his or her fundamental rights under Article 21,” Justice Viswanathan explained, allowing Gandhi to have the same set of persons stand bail surety in all the 13 cases registered across States.

Article 21 of Indian Constitution:

Article 21: Protection of Life and Personal Liberty:

• No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law.
• This fundamental right is available to every person, citizens and foreigners alike.

Article 21 provides two rights:

• Right to life
• Right to personal liberty
• The Supreme Court of India has described this right as the ‘heart of fundamental rights’. This implies that this right has been provided against the State only.
• State here includes not just the government, but also, government departments, local bodies, the legislatures, etc.
• The right to life is not just about the right to survive. It also entails being able to live a complete life of dignity and meaning.

Case Laws:

• AK Gopalan Case (1950): Until the 1950s, Article 21had a bit of a narrow scope. In this case, the SC held that the expression ‘procedure established by law’, the Constitution has embodied the British concept of personal liberty rather than the American ‘due process’.
• Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978): This case overturned the Gopalan case judgement. The idea of personal liberty in Article 21 has a wide scope including many rights, some of which are embodied under Article 19, thus giving them ‘additional protection’. The court also held that a law that comes under Article 21 must satisfy the requirements under Article 19 as well.
• That means any procedure under law for the deprivation of life or liberty of a person must not be unfair, unreasonable or arbitrary.

List of rights that Article 21:

• Right to privacy
• Right to go abroad
• Right to shelter
• Right against solitary confinement
• Right to social justice and economic empowerment
• Right against handcuffing
• Right against custodial death
• Right against delayed execution
• Doctors’ assistance
• Right against public hanging
• Protection of cultural heritage
• Right to pollution-free water and air
• Right of every child to a full development
• Right to health and medical aid
• Right to education
• Protection of under-trials

7. Gopichand Thotakura, India’s first civilian space tourist, recieves warm welcome in Delhi

Subject: Science and Tech

Sec: Space sector

Context:

India’s first civilian space tourist Gopichand Thotakura returned to the country on Monday (August 26, 2024) to witness a warm welcome in New Delhi. He has set the record of being the second-ever Indian citizen to travel to space after Rakesh Sharma, a former Indian Air Force pilot, who travelled to space in 1984.

More on News:

• He was one of the six crew members of New Shephard-25 (NS-25) mission by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos’ space company Blue Origin.
• First Indian space tourist to fly on Jeff Bezos’s Blue Origin’s NS-25 mission.
• India aims to achieve debris-free space missions by 2030.

Blue Origin’s NS-25 mission

Mission Highlights:

• Type: Suborbital spaceflight mission
• Launch Vehicle: New Shepard rocket
• Launch Date: Planned for 2024
• Launched from: Launch site one in West Texas
• Crew: Six people

Significance:

• Seventh human flight:  New Shepard program.

• Return to flight: This will be the first crewed mission since a September 2022 engine failure grounded the New Shepard fleet.
• Firsts: Potentially the first Indian space tourist to fly on a commercial space mission.

8. On the unrest in the Balochistan region

Sub: IR

Sec: Places in news

Context:

• In the past few weeks, Balochistan, in Pakistan, has witnessed large-scale protests demanding greater rights.

About Balochistan:

• Balochistan is a region with a distinct cultural and historical identity that is now divided between three countries mainly Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan.
• In Pakistan, Balochistan is the biggest of its four provinces.
• Though rich in minerals, Balochistan is one of Pakistan’s most underdeveloped regions.

About the protests:

• Baloch people are protesting against the Pakistan government’s alleged highhandedness, forced disappearances and human rights violations.
• In a country with many restrictions on women’s rights, the demonstrations in Balochistan have witnessed a proactive participation from women.

Causes of the unrest

Historical reasons:

• In 1947, Kingdom of Balochistan chose to remain independent. However, due to pressure from Pakistan, signed accession to Pakistan in 1948.
• Additionally, in 1955, the One Unit scheme centralized power. Despite its abolishment in 1970, central control persisted.
• The lack of provincial autonomy aggravated the discontent in Balochistan, which often became the site of multiple insurgencies and protests.

Economic Issues:

• Balochistan with its significant mineral resources, such as copper, gold, coal, and natural gas continues to be one of the most backward regions in Pakistan.
• The exploitation of these resources has not resulted in substantive economic benefits for the local population.
• The region contributes 5% of Pakistan’s GDP but faces high poverty and underdevelopment despite its resources.

Counter-Insurgency operations:

• The security forces, as a part of their counter-insurgency operations, reportedly resort to enforced disappearances.
• Quite often, this has ended in extra-judicial killings and fake encounters.

Chinese Involvement:

• China is a key player in Balochistan through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
• A Chinese firm has taken the Gwadar port on a 40-year lease and is involved in constructing and operating it.
• This has raised concerns about potential militarization and impact on local livelihoods.
• Chinese trawlers’ presence has led to protests from local fishermen.

China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC):

• CPEC is part of China’s ‘One Belt One Road’ (OBOR) initiative.
• The CPEC begins from Kashgar in Xinjiang province of China, traverses through the length of Pakistan and ends in
• Several other road, rail and power projects are associated with the corridor and seeks to expand and upgrade infrastructure across the length and breadth of Pakistan.
• The initiative aims to widen and deepen economic ties with its “all-weather friend”

9. Colombo port welcomes Indian, Chinese warships on the same day

Sub: IR

Sec: Places in news

Context:

• Sri Lanka’s main port in the capital Colombo welcomed India’s frontline warship ‘INS Mumbai’, as well as three warships of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army.
• India has voiced concern with the Sri Lankan government on multiple occasions about Chinese presence in its ports.

Ban on Research vessels:

• In January 2024, Sri Lanka banned foreign research vessels after India and the US raised concerns over Chinese vessels’ visits.
• However, Sri Lanka’s Foreign minister hinted at possibly lifting the ban on foreign vessels next year. He said that Sri Lanka will not take sides and block only China.

Why is Chinese Presence in Sri Lanka a Concern for India?

• Strategic significance: Sri Lanka’s location in the Indian Ocean is strategically important. It sits along major maritime routes, including the busy sea lanes connecting the Middle East to Asia.
• Geopolitical Rivalry: China’s increasing influence in South Asia can be seen as part of a broader strategy to challenge India’s regional dominance.
• Infrastructure and Debt Diplomacy: China has invested heavily in infrastructure projects in Sri Lanka, such as the Hambantota Port. There are concerns that these projects might lead to a debt trap, where Sri Lanka could be forced to cede strategic assets or influence to China.
• Security Concerns: The presence of Chinese military or dual-use facilities in Sri Lanka could pose a security risk for India.

About Colombo port:

• The port of Colombo is the largest and busiest port in Sri Lanka and the Indian Ocean.
• Located in on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, on the Kelani River, it serves as an important terminal in Asia due to its strategic location in the Indian Ocean.
• The Colombo port handles more than 60% of India’s transhipment cargo.
• The Western Container Terminal (WCT) of the port is being developed with Indian assistance.

10. Japan scrambles jets after Chinese aircraft ‘violates’ airspace

Sub: IR

Sec: Places in news

Context:

• Japan’s Defence Ministry said that a Chinese aircraft violated its territorial airspace off the Danjo Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture. The incursion lasted for two minutes.
• Japan deployed fighter jets and issued warning in response.
• Also, China recently had a confrontation with Philippine near the disputed Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea.

Implications:

• Multiple confrontations have taken place in recent days between China and its neighbours. This has led to escalation of tensions in the region.
• Increased military activity in the region could affect trade as it can disrupt global supply chains.

Background of the issue:

• China’s growing economic and military clout in the Asia-Pacific region and its assertiveness in territorial disputes, particularly Taiwan, has alarmed US and its allies including Japan.
• Recently, Japan increased defence spending and eased rules on arms exports.
• Japan has been providing funding and equipment to countries across the region and agreed on a deal with the Philippines allowing troop deployments on each other’s soil.
• Japan also made efforts at reconciliation of ties with South Korea.
• Japan is also part of the Quad alliance with the US, Australia and India, a grouping seen as a counterbalance to China’s influence in the region.

Senkaku islands:

• Japan and China have a long-standing dispute over the Senkaku islands
• It is group of uninhabited islands in the East China Sea that are controlled by Japan but claimed by China and Taiwan, which refer to them as Diaoyu Dao and Diaoyutai, respectively.
• The islands are close to strategically important shipping lanes, offer potential oil and natural gas resources, and are situated in rich fishing areas.

Danjo Islands:

• The Danjo Islands, the site of the latest incident, are a group of small islets also located in the East China Sea off Japan’s Nagasaki region.

Sabina shoal:

• Sabina shoal is a disputed atoll in the Spratly Islands of South China sea, claimed by China, Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam
• The shoal is located 140 km west of the Philippine Island of Palawan and about 1,200 km from Hainan Island, China’s nearest major landmass.

11. Chandrayaan-3’s Pragyan Rover Unveils Evidence of Ancient Lunar Magma Ocean

Sub : Sci

Sec: Space sector

Why in News?

The Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Chandrayaan-3 mission, specifically its Pragyan rover, has made significant discoveries about the Moon’s geological history. The rover identified ferroan anorthosite, a rock type that suggests the Moon once had a vast ocean of magma. These findings have been published in the journal Nature.

Key Findings and Issues:

Pragyan Rover’s Mission Accomplishments

• Lunar Exploration Success:
  Pragyan, part of the Chandrayaan-3 mission, successfully completed its mission on the Moon’s surface, studying lunar soil and relaying valuable scientific data back to Earth.
• Significant Discoveries:
  The rover identified the presence of ferroan anorthosite in the lunar soil, supporting the theory of an ancient magma ocean on the Moon.

Lunar Geological Insights

Magma Ocean Theory:
Scientists believe that the Moon’s surface was once covered by a magma ocean. As this magma cooled, it crystallized to form rocks like ferroan anorthosite.

Pragyan’s discovery confirms observations made by earlier missions like the U.S. Apollo and Soviet Luna missions, which studied the lunar equator.

• Meteorite Impact Evidence:
  The Vikram lander’s location, near the South Pole-Aitken Basin, a massive impact crater, provided crucial data. This crater likely resulted from a powerful meteor strike that brought material from deep within the Moon to its surface.

Challenges in Lunar Exploration

• Surface Analysis Difficulties:
  The Pragyan rover moved slowly and carefully across the lunar surface to avoid obstacles and ensure accurate data collection. Its instruments, including the Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS), required precise positioning to gather reliable readings.
• Impact of Lunar Environment:
  The Moon’s harsh environment, including extreme temperatures and lack of atmosphere, posed challenges for the rover. Despite this, Pragyan managed to gather critical data before going offline.

Implications for Future Research

• Continued Analysis:
  The findings from Pragyan need to be corroborated with data from other missions, including Chandrayaan-1 and Chandrayaan-2, as well as ongoing international lunar research.
• Future Prospects:
  Although the rover has ceased operations, the data it collected continues to be analyzed, potentially leading to further breakthroughs in our understanding of the Moon’s history.

Commemoration and Recognition

• National Space Day: In recognition of Chandrayaan-3’s success, August 23 has been designated as India’s ‘National Space Day’ by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

s

Sub : Sci

Sec: Space sector

Why in News?

SpaceX is set to conduct the first-ever private spacewalk as part of its Polaris Dawn mission, testing innovative space technologies, including new spacesuits and a Crew Dragon vehicle without an airlock. This mission represents one of SpaceX’s most daring ventures, aiming to push the boundaries of human space exploration.

Polaris Dawn Mission

Objective: It is a five-day space expedition focused on testing new technology at unprecedented altitudes.

First Private Spacewalk: Polaris Dawn will conduct the first-ever private spacewalk, testing SpaceX’s new spacesuits and vehicle modifications.

Elliptical Orbit: The mission will orbit between 190 km to 1,400 km above Earth, the farthest human space travel since NASA’s Apollo program.

High Radiation Exposure: The crew will travel through the Van Allen belt, exposing them to higher radiation levels than typical low-Earth orbit missions.

Crew Composition: The mission crew includes billionaire Jared Isaacman, mission pilot Scott Poteet, and SpaceX engineers Sarah Gillis and Anna Menon.

Privately Funded: The mission is privately funded by Jared Isaacman, with an estimated cost exceeding $100 million.

Technological Innovations and Challenges

Slim Spacesuits: The mission will test SpaceX’s new spacesuits designed to operate without a traditional airlock.

Crew Dragon Modifications: The Crew Dragon vehicle has been modified to allow its hatch door to open directly into space, eliminating the need for an airlock.

High-Risk Environment: The crew will orbit between 190 km to 1,400 km above Earth, exposing them to higher radiation levels in the Van Allen belt.

Risks and Safety Concerns

Spacewalk Risks: Two crew members will conduct a 20-minute spacewalk tethered by oxygen lines, relying solely on their spacesuits for life support.

Lack of Regulatory Oversight: Unlike NASA missions, private missions like Polaris Dawn do not adhere to strict U.S. spaceflight safety regulations.

Contingency Plans: SpaceX has prepared for potential emergencies, such as oxygen leaks or hatch door failures, though specific details remain undisclosed.

Significance of the Mission

Historical Context: This mission marks the farthest distance from Earth that humans have travelled since NASA’s Apollo program ended in 1972.

Implications for Future Space Exploration: Success in this mission could pave the way for more private space missions, expanding the scope of human space exploration.

Crew Dragon:

NASA Partnership: Crew Dragon was developed by SpaceX under NASA’s Commercial Crew Program to transport astronauts to the International Space Station.

Reusable Spacecraft: Crew Dragon is designed as a reusable spacecraft, capable of carrying up to seven astronauts to space and back.

No Airlock Design: For Polaris Dawn, Crew Dragon has been modified to open its hatch directly into space, eliminating the need for an airlock.

Safety Features: The spacecraft includes advanced safety features such as an autonomous emergency abort system to protect crew members during launch.

First All-Civilian Mission: Crew Dragon was used in the Inspiration4 mission, the first all-civilian mission to orbit Earth, in September 2021.

Van Allen Radiation Belts

Diagram: (a) The Earth’s magnetosphere showing the Van Allen radiation belt. (b) Outer and inner (proton) belt

NASA Apollo Program

Definition: A series of space missions conducted by NASA aimed at landing humans on the Moon and bringing them back safely.

Duration: 1961-1972.

13. Rare Recession of Sea at Vizag Beach Sparks Caution

Sub : Geo

Sec: Geomorphology

Why in News:

On August 26, 2024, RK Beach in Visakhapatnam experienced an unusual event where the sea receded by approximately 150 meters, exposing the rocky seabed and accumulated waste. This rare phenomenon attracted significant attention from both locals and visitors.

Unusual Sea Recession

• The sea retreated by about 150 meters along RK Beach and other nearby areas such as Rushikonda, Sagar Nagar, Tenneti Park, and Lawson’s Bay.
• This event allowed beachgoers to walk extensively on the previously submerged seabed.

Public Reaction: The phenomenon drew large crowds, with many people exploring the newly exposed seabed and taking photographs.

Potential Concerns

Expert Warning: Arjili Dasu, General Secretary of the National Fisherfolk Forum, cautioned that such receding could indicate abnormal weather conditions, including cyclones or tsunamis.

Scientific Explanation: According to the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), this occurrence is likely due to the shifting of ocean currents from north to south, a pattern common during August and September.

Scientific Insights

• Velamala S. Naidu, a retired Senior Principal Scientist, suggested that changes in tidal patterns or ocean current directions could be responsible for the sea recession.
• V.V.S.S. Sarma, Chief Scientist at NIO (East Coast), noted that the sea receding might signal a low-pressure system forming, potentially leading to cyclonic conditions.

Meteorological Update

• The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted a low-pressure system over the East Central and adjoining North Bay of Bengal by August 29, 2024. There is a potential for heavy rainfall across Andhra Pradesh from August 29 to 31.

The rare retreat of the sea at Vizag Beach has garnered attention due to its unusual nature and potential implications for weather patterns. While some view it as a fascinating natural event, experts and authorities are monitoring the situation closely for possible developments related to adverse weather conditions

Ramakrishna Beach (RK Beach):

Location: Ramakrishna Beach, is situated on the east coast of the Bay of Bengal in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

Proximity: The beach is located near Dolphin’s Nose, a prominent geographical feature in Visakhapatnam.

Name Origin: The beach is named after the Ramakrishna Mission ashram situated nearby.

Recent Event: In August 2024, RK Beach experienced a notable sea recession, with the sea retreating by approximately 150 meters due to specific tidal and oceanographic conditions.

Scientific Monitoring: The beach’s tidal patterns and coastal dynamics are monitored by the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) and local authorities for research and management

Rushikonda Beach:

Blue Flag Certification: Recognized as one of the cleanest beaches in India.

Location: Strategically positioned between Dolphin’s Nose and Bheemunipatam, facing the Bay of Bengal.

Geological Significance: Identified as a ‘Triangular Station’ by the Geological Survey of India.

Environmental and Cultural Significance

Coastal Regulation Zone: Protected area that serves as a nesting site for Olive Ridley Turtles.

Historical Reference: Known as ‘Sugarloaf’ by European sailors.

Cultural Heritage:

• Home to the 14th-century Sri Sarva Rusheswara Temple, surrounded by seven hills.
• Associated with the mythology of the Sapta Rishi.

Geological Wonders

Red Sand Hills (Erra Matti Dibbalu): Nearly 12,000 years old, located on the Vizag-Bheemili Beach Road.

Wave-Cut Platforms: Natural rock formations on the Rushikonda-Bheemili beach stretch.

Mineral Richness: The area’s sand dunes are rich in ilmenite (titanium ore).

Dolphin’s Nose

Location: A prominent headland in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, jutting out into the Bay of Bengal.

Appearance: The rock formation resembles the shape of a dolphin’s nose, giving it its name.

Elevation: Stands about 174 meters (570 feet) above sea level.

Strategic Importance:

• Lighthouse: Houses a lighthouse that guides ships approaching Visakhapatnam Port, with a beam range of 65 km.
• Naval Significance: The area is home to key naval installations, contributing to India’s maritime security.