DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 1
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Introduction
Hello Everyone, Every year more than 50 percent of the Prelims Paper is based on Current Affairs. It become important for us to have very good command on Current Affairs. Hundreds of publications are available in market. Aspirants are always confused how to prepare Current Affairs and most of the times they end up choosing wrong publications. We will not let you fall in this trouble. Three important courses are running simultaneously on our website for Current Affairs from Monday to Friday- Daily Quiz section, Daily Current Affairs section and Daily News Section. Daily Quiz will help you do the best preparation to handle any question in UPSC Prelims Exam, Daily News section contains best opinion based Articles important for your Mains Exam and Daily Current Affairs section will give you best Current Affairs which is relevant for you Exam from all important sources (PIB+ all government websites, The Hindu+ 10 different newspaper, etc. ). Nothing will be missed. This document is related to Current Affairs section.
You might find it bulky but don’t worry. It contains lot of images to simplify your understanding. Hope you enjoy reading. Thanks, Abhishek Agarwal Founder, GoalTide IAS Prelims Academy
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 2
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Table of Contents CA1. Impacts of Sand and Dust Storms on Oceans ...... 5 CA2. Centre constitutes committee for implementation of 2015 Paris Agreement ...... 8 CA3. Indian Oil Corporation launches country's first 100 Octane petrol ...... 9 CA4. What are the Blue tides spotted at Mumbai beaches? ...... 10 CA5. Species in news ...... 12 CA6. World Malaria Report 2020 ...... 14 CA7. New evidence pushes back by 30000 years first use of fire in India ...... 19 CA8. Warnings of Brahmaputra floods in Tree Ring ...... 21 CA9. Approval of new drug in India ...... 25 CA10. Unnat Bharat Abhiyan Scheme ...... 27 CA11. IUCN World Heritage Outlook 3 Report...... 29 CA12. India and Pakistan: Basmati Battle in European Union ...... 33 CA13. Technical Education in Mother Tongue ...... 35 CA14. Ken-Betwa Interlinking Project Dam ...... 37 CA15. Oman-India Friendship Association ...... 39 CA16. Cannabis Removed from Dangerous Substances: UN ...... 40 CA17. Chang’e-5 lunar probe ...... 42 CA18. Economy firmly on the path of a V-shaped recovery ...... 44 CA19. Indo Gangetic plain global hotspot of atmospheric ammonia ...... 47 CA20. Cobalt Production in India...... 49 CA21. State Land (Vesting Ownership to the Occupants) Act, 2001 (Roshni Act) ...... 50 CA22. International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS)...... 52 CA23. Coal Mining in North East India...... 53 CA24. Right to Vote for NRIs ...... 57 CA25. China turns on "Artificial Sun" ...... 59 CA26. Bauxite mining in India ...... 60 CA27. Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) Scheme ...... 63 CA28. Technical Specifications of Floating Structures ...... 65 CA29. Central waqf Council...... 66 CA30. Scientists discover 80-million-year-old dinosaur had a bone infection that humans have today ... 67
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 3
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
CA31. Reforms in Agriculture Marketing ...... 68 CA32. Inter-governmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) ...... 72 CA33. Lakshadweep Declared an Organic Union Territory ...... 74 CA34. New Height for Mount Everest ...... 77 CA35. National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) ...... 80 CA36. Climate Change Performance Index ...... 81 CA37. Blockchain Technology ...... 82 CA38. Kerala’s ‘pink phenomenon’ in water bodies...... 86 CA39. Partners in Population and Development Initiative (PPD) ...... 87 CA40. Cattle, buffalo meat residue found in Indus Valley vessels ...... 88 CA41. How Neural Network works? ...... 89 CA42. Rise in AI Adoption in India Amidst Pandemics ...... 91 CA43. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) ...... 94 CA44. Israel set to open up parts of Herod’s palace ...... 96 CA45. ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus ...... 97 CA46. Urban-Rural and Gender divide observed in access to School Education...... 98 CA47. Diversity of food culture prevalent in the Indus Valley Civilization ...... 101 CA48. Miyawaki Method of Afforestation ...... 103 CA49. Delimitation Commission...... 104 CA50. Formulation of policy on 3D printing ...... 105 CA51. Electoral Bonds ...... 106 CA52. 23rd Meeting of Financial Stability and Development Council ...... 109 CA53. New Ramsar site designated in Bihar ...... 112 CA54. Sustainable Mountain Development Summit (SMDS) ...... 115 CA55. What is ‘the great conjunction’? ...... 116
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 4
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
CA1. Impacts of Sand and Dust Storms on Oceans Link: https://www.unenvironment.org/resources/report/impacts-sand-and-dust-storms- oceans This small discussion will be based on the report- Impacts of Sand and Dust Storms on Oceans: A Scientific Environmental Assessment for Policy Makers. Sand and dust is raised by strong winds from areas of bare or sparsely vegetated ground. While some of this material falls back to the surface near the source, the smaller dust particles are carried further in the wind sometimes thousands of kilometres before being deposited. Each year, an estimated two billion tonnes of dust is raised into the atmosphere; and one-quarter of this reaches– the oceans. – Is this movement regular? These long-distance dust flows are highly seasonal and can vary significantly from year to year. But most dust comes from deserts and semi-deserts, and a particularly dusty area known as the Dust Belt stretches from the Sahara across the Middle East to the deserts of Central and Northeast Asia.
The planet’s largest sources are in the Sahara. Much Saharan dust is transported south- westward by the Harmattan wind that prevails between November and April. This dust has marked effects on the North Atlantic and the Caribbean Sea, but Saharan dust also impacts the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 5
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
How do they affect ocean ecosystems?
a. Dust carries nutrients such as phosphorus, and trace metals—including iron, manganese, titanium, Aluminium to oceanic ecosystems, elements that are essential for all life forms. In this way, desert dust is a principal driver of oceanic primary productivity, which forms— the base of the marine food web. b. Marine primary production also fuels the global carbon cycle via the exchange of CO2 between ocean and atmosphere, so desert dust has impacts on our climate system. c. Dust also provides some of the building blocks for coral reefs: dust particles are incorporated into coral skeletons as they grow. What are some of the negative effects of sand and dust storms? a. The fertilizing effect of desert dust is thought to have an impact on algal blooms, some of which can be harmful, and may contribute to Sargassum seaweed mats. Unusually large blooms of floating Sargassum seaweed have been noted since 2011 in parts of the Caribbean Sea. The brown part you see in below image is mats.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 6
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
b. These drifting seaweed mats provide important habitat for many species in the open ocean, but close to shore, they can disrupt shipping, fishing and tourism. c. Potential links have also been identified between microorganisms, trace metals and organic contaminants carried in desert dust and some of the complex changes on coral reefs observed in numerous parts of the world. d. Disease has undoubtedly been an important factor in recent coral reef declines worldwide and several of the diseases that affect corals are associated with microorganisms carried in desert dust.
e. A wide variety of microorganisms including fungi, bacteria and viruses has been found in desert dust. Most of these pathogens come from dryland soils and are highly resistant to desiccation, temperature— extremes, conditions of high —salinity
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 7
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
and exposure to ultraviolet radiation. They are therefore typically able to survive in the atmosphere for many days. How does this report contribute to existing knowledge about sand and dust storms? While our understanding of the dust cycle has improved greatly in recent decades, large uncertainties and knowledge gaps remain. Nonetheless, this knowledge has significant implications for a number of Sustainable Development Goals -– particularly Goal 14 on Life Below Water and Goal 15 on Life on Land. Marking the start of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030), this report explores the impacts of sand and dust storms on oceans their ecosystem functions, goods and services which are potentially numerous and wide-ranging. Sand and dust storms thus warrant continued careful monitoring— and research. — Also see, Coalition on Sand and Dust Storms Sand and Dust Storms Day at the 14th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP 14) saw the launch of an international coalition for action on sand and dust storms (SDS).
CA2. Centre constitutes committee for implementation of 2015 Paris Agreement
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 8
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Link: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/centre-constitutes- committee-for-implementation-of-2015-paris-agreement-74451
The Government of India has constituted the Apex Committee for the Implementation of the Paris Agreement (AIPA) November 27, 2020, through a gazette notification. ensuring a coordinated response on climate change matters that protects the country’s interests and ensures that India is on track towardsAIPA has meeting been constituted its climate with change the obligationspurpose of under“ the Paris Agreement including its submitted Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)”. NDCs are the accounts of the voluntary efforts to be made by countries that are a part of the Paris Agreement, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts of anthropogenic climate change. The three quantitative goals in the Indian NDCs are: a. A 33-35 per cent reduction in the gross domestic product emissions intensity by 2030 from 2005 levels b. A 40 per cent share of non-fossil fuel-based electricity by 2030 c. Creating a carbon sink of 2.5-3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide through afforestation programmes The NDCs are to be implemented in the post-2020 period. India had submitted its NDCs in 2015. Now, the AIPA, with its 17 members, has the responsibility of formulating policies and programmes for implementing them. The committee will have the secretary, Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change as the chairperson and the additional secretary, MoEFCC as the vice chairperson, according to the notification. What else Apex Committee for the Implementation of the Paris Agreement (AIPA) will do? a. The AIPA also has the responsibility of regularly communicating and reporting the NDCs to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). b. It will also define the responsibilities of the government ministries that would be
submit a report every six months. c. Thecrucial AIPA in achievingwill also act the as country’s a national climate authority change for themitigation regulation and of adaptation carbon markets goals and in India CA3. Indian Oil Corporation launches country's first 100 Octane petrol Link: https://www.newindianexpress.com/business/2020/dec/01/indian-oil- corporation-launches-countrys-first-100-octane-petrol-2230481.html
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 9
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) recently launched the nation's first 100 Octane petrol, helping India join a select league of nations globally that have such superior quality fuel. The fuel is manufactured at IOC's Mathura refinery in Uttar Pradesh and supplied at select petrol pump. a. Octane ratings are measures of fuel stability. b. It is a measure of a fuel's ability to avoid knock. c. Knock occurs when fuel is prematurely ignited in the engine's cylinder, which degrades efficiency and can be damaging to the engine. d. The higher the octane number, the more resistant the petrol mixture is to knock. e. Worldwide, 100 Octane petrol has a niche market for luxury vehicles that demand high performance and is available only in six countries of USA, Germany, Greece, Indonesia, Malaysia and Israel. f. At most retail stations, three octane grades are offered, 87 (regular), 89 (mid-grade) and 91-94 (premium). g. Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) had recently launched Octane 99 and now IOC has come to the market with XP100. h. This is a testimony to India's technological prowess and manufacturing it within our refineries is a shining example of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).
CA4. What are the Blue tides spotted at Mumbai beaches? Link: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/mumbai-beach-blue-tide- bioluminescence-explained-7070203/ In a rare phenomenon, visitors of Juhu Beach in Mumbai, Maharashtra, witnessed a spectacular fluorescent blue glow in the waves. The Ministry of Information and broadcast to Juhu, Devgad and Ratnagiri beaches. As per the caption, this phenomenon takes place when dinoflagellatesok produceto its official light Twitter through handle chemical and reactions said that inthe proteins. ‘Blue tide’ was spotted at
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 10
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
This recurring phenomenon is caused by a bioluminescent plankton called Noctiluca Scintillans, commonly known as sea sparkle. Bioluminescence has been an annual occurrence along the west coast since 2016, especially during the months of November and December.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 11
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The natural phenomenon is characterized by the emission of light produced by phytoplanktons (microscopic marine plants), commonly known as dinoflagellates. The light is produced through a series of chemical reactions due to luciferase (oxidative enzymes) protein. Similarly, there is also another such episode called 'red tide', which is made of harmful algal blooms that emit red light. It is a rare incident, which is toxic for marine life
CA5. Species in news Peacock Soft-shelled Turtle
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 12
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Recently, Peacock soft-shelled turtle (a turtle of a vulnerable species) has been rescued from a fish
It is a riverinemarket turtle in endemic Assam’s toSilchar. India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. They are generally omnivorous (predominantly carnivorous) and nocturnal. Conservation Status: a. Vulnerable on IUCN Red list. b. The species is also listed under Appendix I of CITES. c. Protected under the Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act. Thai Mangur Catfish
A shocking incident came to light in Maharashtra, where almost thousands of tons of banned catfish, Thai Mangur are illegally being bred in over 125 artificial ponds in rural Thane, according to the survey conducted by the government agencies. Thai Mangur has been banned by National Green Tribunal in 2000 as they destroyed the local ecosystem and were considered harmful for human consumption too. GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 13
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Ranging from Rs 100-150 per kg, Thai Mangur is easy and cheap to rear. The carnivorous species was introduced to India in the 1990s and it is originally from Africa and the Middle East. Link: https://indianexpress.com/article/north-east-india/assam/professor-rescues- vulnerable-turtle-species-from-assam-fish-market-7074419/ CA6. World Malaria Report 2020 Link: https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/malaria/world-malaria- reports/9789240015791-double-page-view.pdf?sfvrsn=2c24349d_5 a. Globally, there were an estimated 229 million malaria cases in 2019 in 87 malaria endemic countries, declining from 238 million in 2000.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 14
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1 a. Malaria case incidence (i.e. cases per 1000 population at risk) reduced from 80 in 2000 to 58 in 2015 and 57 in 2019 globally. b. Nigeria (27%), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (12%), Uganda (5%), Mozambique (4%) and Niger (3%) accounted for about 51% of all cases globally.
c. Globally, malaria deaths have reduced steadily over the period 2000 2019, from 736 000 in 2000 to 409 000 in 2019. –
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 15
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
d. Nigeria (23%), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (11%), the United Republic of Tanzania (5%), Mozambique (4%), Niger (4%) and Burkina Faso (4%) accounted for about 51% of all malaria deaths globally in 2019.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 16
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
e. The WHO South-East Asia Region accounted for about 3% of the burden of malaria cases globally. f. Malaria cases by country in the WHO South-East Asia Region:
g. India contributed to the largest absolute reductions in the WHO South-East Asia Region, from about 20 million cases in 2000 to about 5.6 million in 2019.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 17
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1 h. India accounted for about 86% of all malaria deaths in the WHO South-East Asia Region.
i. Malaria case in South-East Asia Region incidence reduced by 78%, from about 18 to 4 per 1000 population at risk in the period 2000–2019.
j. Malaria deaths reduced by 74%, from about 35 000 in 2000 to 9000 in 2019.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 18
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
k. Sri Lanka was certified malaria free in 2015, and Timor-Leste reported zero malaria cases in 2018 and 2019. High burden to High Impact (HBHI) Approach The approach is based on four response elements: galvanizing political will nationally and globally to reduce malaria deaths; using strategic information to drive impact; implementing best global guidance, policies and strategies suitable for all malaria endemic countries; and applying a coordinated country response. This approach has been led by 11 countries that accounted for 70% of the global burden of malaria which includes India. Nothing more than this is required now in this report. All important points covered.
CA7. New evidence pushes back by 30000 years first use of fire in India Link: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/new-evidence-pushes-back-by- 30000-years-first-use-of-fire-in-india/articleshow/79521759.cms About 80 km from Prayagraj, in the Belan river valley, scientists have found evidence of that point in India, pushing back the first known controlled use of fire here by 30,000 years.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 19
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Before this, the first reported use of fire in the Indian subcontinent was from 18,000- 20,000 years ago. Hearths were found in the same valley, considered the first direct evidence of human use of fire. A small study to prove that charcoal found is from human activity, not forest fires: For this study, scientists from IISER-Kolkata looked at macrocharcoal (larger than 125 micron) from six archaeological sites in the valley Deoghat, Koldihwa, Mahagara, Chillahia, Chopani-Mando and Main Belan. They found charcoal from buried soils, which were dated 50,000 years old. But that did not necessarily— imply they were the result of human activity.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 20
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Which means the human brain was developed enough to control fire. This is the time that the cognitive abilities of prehistoric humans developed. This coincided with the period when they started creating different types of tools. The use of fire was persistent from prehistoric populations to the later farming communities. Middle Paleolithic to Neolithic (from 55,000 to 3,000 years ago) … from the earlier This is now the 13th oldest evidence of the use of fire in the world. The oldest is from 1.6 million years ago, at Koobi Fora in Kenya.
CA8. Warnings of Brahmaputra floods in Tree Ring Link: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/11/201130131457.htm
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 21
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
A new study looking at seven centuries of water flow in south Asia's mighty Brahmaputra River suggests that scientists are underestimating the river's potential for catastrophic flooding as climate warms. The revelation comes from examinations of tree rings, which showed rainfall patterns going back centuries before instrumental and historical records.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 22
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The new study, based on the rings of ancient trees in and around the river's watershed, shows that the post-1950s period was actually one of the driest since the 1300s. The rings show that there have been much wetter periods in the past, driven by natural oscillations that took place over decades or centuries. The takeaway: destructive floods probably will come more frequently than scientists have thought, even minus any effects of human-driven climate change. How tree rings helped? a. As trees grow, they incorporate information about the environmental conditions they are living in in their annual growth rings. b. Tree rings grow wider in years when soil moisture is high. Trees in the region grow more and put on wide rings in wet monsoon years. c. Conversely, in dry monsoon years (or droughts) they grow less and put on narrow rings. d. Since some of these trees can live for a long time, by taking a small, pencil-thin tree-core from these trees and measuring their rings under a microscope scientist could learn more about climate conditions for the past several centuries. The findings are obviously relevant to Assam and Northeast India too. With this, flood risks could be compounded by planned projects in the region.
About Brahmaputra River:
Brahmaputra is one of the largest rivers in the world and rank fifth with respect to its average discharge. The river originates from the Kailash ranges of Himalayas at an elevation of 5300 M. After flowing through Tibet, it enters India through Arunachal Pradesh and flows through Assam and Bangladesh before it joins Bay of Bengal. Only three countries- Tibet (China), India and Bangladesh.
In India, it flows through Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, ONLY TWO STATES.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 23
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
North Bank Tributaries = Right bank Tributaries.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 24
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
CA9. Approval of new drug in India Recently: US drug maker Moderna is applying for emergency use authorisation for its Covid-19 vaccine. A few days earlier, Pfizer applied for emergency use authorisation for the vaccine. In India, Serum Institute of India, which is trialing a version of the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine, has said it expects to seek emergency use authorisation within the next two weeks. Vaccine Authorization in India: Vaccines and medicines, and even diagnostic tests and medical devices, require the approval of a regulatory authority before they can be administered. In India, the regulatory authority is the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). We will see in bit detail: When a company in India wants to manufacture/ import a new drug it has to apply to seek permission from the licensing authority (DCGI) by filing in Form 44 also submitting the data as given in Schedule Y of Drugs and Cosmetics Act 1940 and Rules 1945.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 25
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
In order to prove its efficacy and safety in Indian population it has to conduct clinical trials in accordance with the guidelines specified in Schedule Y and submit the report of such clinical trials in specified format. But a provision is there in Rule- 122A of Drugs and Cosmetics Act 1940 and Rules 1945 that the licensing authority may waive certain trails if he considers that in the interest of public health he may grant permission for import of new drugs basing on the data of the trials done in other countries. Similarly, there is another provision in Rule- 122A which says that the clinical trials may be waived in the case of new drugs which are approved and being used for several years in other countries. Section 2.4 (a) of Schedule Y of Drugs and Cosmetics Act 1940 and Rules 1945 says for those drug substances which are discovered in India all phases of clinical trials are required. Section 2.4 (b) of Schedule Y of Drugs and Cosmetics Act 1940 and Rules 1945 says that for those drug substances which are discovered in countries other than India; the applicant should submit the data available from other countries and the licensing authority may require him to repeat all the studies or permit him to proceed from Phase III clinical trials. Section 2.8 of Schedule Y of Drugs and Cosmetics Act 1940 and Rules 1945 says that the licensing authority may require pharmacokinetic studies (Bioequivalence studies) first to show that the data generated in Indian population is equal to data generated abroad and then require him to proceed with Phase III trials. In summary, the exact requirements of Clinical trials may change from case to case and depend on the extent to which licensing authority is satisfied about its safety and efficacy.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 26
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) is the Central Drug Authority for discharging functions assigned to the Central Government under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Major functions of CDSCO: Regulatory control over the import of drugs, approval of new drugs and clinical trials, meetings of Drugs Consultative Committee (DCC) and Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB), approval of certain licenses as Central License Approving Authority is exercised by the CDSCO headquarters.
CA10. Unnat Bharat Abhiyan Scheme Link: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1674507
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 27
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Union Education Minister held a review meeting regarding the progress of Unnat Bharat Abhiyan Scheme (UBA) through video conferencing. You can use this introduction even for your Mains. rn developmental paradigm, based on centralized technologies and urbanization, has given rise to serious problemsAs foreseen like by increasing Gandhi Ji ininequity his seminal (leading work, to ‘Hindcrime Swaraj’,and violence), the weste and climate change due to rapid ecological degradation.
To ameliorate these problems, it is necessary to promote development of rural areas in tune with Gandhian vision of self- ces and using decentralized, eco-friendly technologies so that the basic needs of food, clothing, shelter, sanitation, health care, energy,sufficient livelihood, ‘village transportation, republics’, based and on education local resour are locally met. This should be the vision of holistic development of villages. Now how Unnat Bharat Abhiyan is associated with his? Unnat Bharat Abhiyan is inspired by the vision of transformational change in rural development processes by leveraging knowledge institutions to help build the architecture of an Inclusive India. The Mission of Unnat Bharat Abhiyan is to enable higher educational institutions to work with the people of rural India in identifying development challenges and evolving appropriate solutions for accelerating sustainable growth. It also aims to create a virtuous cycle between society and an inclusive academic system by providing knowledge and practices for emerging professions and to upgrade the capabilities of both the public and the private sectors in responding to the development needs of rural India. Organizational Structure: In order to implement such an ambitious programme nationwide, it is essential to set-up an adequate structural network with a large number of nodal institutions and a proper mechanism to plan, execute and monitor the activities regularly to be able to create a tangible positive impact. It is also very important to facilitate synergetic collaboration between the concerned ministries, local Panchayat Raj Institutes (PRIs), voluntary organizations, and institutions participating in UBA.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 28
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Basic funding for setting up the structural network of UBA and for orientation of UBA teams to enable effective participation i.e. establishing and running the UBA cells of CI, MIs and PIs is to be provided by the Ministry of Education (MOE). The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT, Delhi) has been designated as the National Coordinating Institute (NCI) for the UBA scheme.
Don’t learn more than this about this scheme. CA11. IUCN World Heritage Outlook 3 Report. Link: https://www.iucn.org/news/secretariat/202012/climate-change-now-top-threat- natural-world-heritage-iucn-report We will small basics and all Indian sites which are included in its list.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 29
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The IUCN World Heritage Outlook 3 builds on previous reports from 2014 and 2017 to track whether the conservation of the worl sufficient to protect them in the long term. It finds that climate change has overtaken invasive species as the top threat to natural Worldd’s Heritage. 252 natural World Heritage sites is
The IUCN Outlook assesses the prospects for World Heritage site values the unique features which have earned them their World Heritage status based on threats, and how good protection and management is. – – a. b. HalfIt assesses of the sites63% of sites as either “good” or “good with some concerns”, while 30% are of “significant concern” and 7% are “critical”. are found to have “effective” or “highly effective” protection and management, with the sustainability of the sites’ funding being the most common issue rated as a “serious concern”.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 30
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Which Heritage sites in India fall under which category? For this first of all, you should know, which sites in India are listed as World Heritage sites. So, there are currently 38 such sites:
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 31
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Now among these sites, 8 Indian sites are listed in Report. Good: Khangchendzonga National Park Good with some concerns: Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area, Kaziranga National Park, Keoladeo National Park, Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks, Sundarbans National Park Significant Concern: Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Western Ghats,
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 32
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
None of the site haves been placed in critical stage.
CA12. India and Pakistan: Basmati Battle in European Union Recently, the European Commission published India’s Protected Geographical Indication application in the European Union for ‘Basmati’, the rice which is popularly used for making Biriyanis and Pulao.
Where is the Problem? Pakistan, the only other country that exports Basmati has announced that it will challenge India’s application. Pakistan, which is the only other country in the world to produce Basmati rice besides the application. Getting the GI tag can help India boost its export of Basmati rice, which may hit Pakistan’s exports ofIndia, the same.has opposed India’s claim and has planned to challenge It has to be noted that the Pakistan Government enacted the GI (Registration and Protection) Act only in March 2020. In India, GI Act has been in force since 1999. of 3 months from the publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. According to the EU’s regulations, countries can file opposition to GI claims within a period GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 33
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Now, we will also see the status of Basmati Rice in India. More than 85% of the global Basmati exports (by quantity and by value) are from India. India already accounts for a lion’s share of Basmati rice exports.
In India, the quantity of Basmati exported is about 37% of the total rice exports by quantity and 60% by value in 2018-19. In the five years between 2014-15 and 2018-19, according to parliament responses, India’s Basmati exports have increased.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 34
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Claim to Basmati in dispute even among states Basmati is a registered GI in India. However, as per the registry, the states of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir are the producers of Basmati. a. Madhya Pradesh also claimed to market rice under Basmati tag and hence APEDA was asked by the GI registry to include Madhya Pradesh among those states that grow Basmati, in December 2013. b. Later, APEDA challenged this before the Intellectual Property Appellate Board (IPAB) in 2014. c. The Madhya Pradesh government later challenged the same before the Madras High Court and the HC dismissed the claim. d. The matter reportedly has been taken up at the apex court.
CA13. Technical Education in Mother Tongue Link: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1677712
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 35
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Recently, the Union Education Minister has set up a task force for preparing a roadmap on imparting technical education in the mother tongue of students. It will be set-up under the chairmanship of the secretary, higher education, Amit Khare. Objective: To achieve the vision that students may pursue the professional courses such as medicine, engineering, law, etc. in their mother tongue. This is part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 which suggests teaching in regional language till class 8 and enabling teaching the curriculum in a language which a student is comfortable in. Constitutional and Legal Provisions Safeguarding Regional Languages Article 29 (Protection of interests of minorities) gives all citizens right to conserve their language and prohibits discrimination on the basis of language.
Article 120 (Language to be used in Parliament) provides for use of Hindi or English for transactions of Parliament but gives the right to members of Parliament to express themselves in their mother tongue.
Part XVII of the Indian Constitution deals with the official languages in Articles 343 to 351. Article 350A (Facilities for instruction in mother-tongue at primary stage) provides that it shall be the endeavour of every State and of every local authority within the State to provide adequate facilities for instruction in the mother-tongue at the primary stage of education to children belonging to linguistic minority groups. Article 350B (Special Officer for linguistic minorities): The President should appoint a special officer for linguistic minorities to investigate all matters relating to the constitutional safeguards for linguistic minorities and to report to him. The President should place all such reports before the Parliament and send to the state government concerned.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 36
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Article 351 (Directive for development of the Hindi language) provides that it shall be the duty of the Union to promote the spread of the Hindi language.
The Eighth Schedule recognizes following 22 languages: Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu, Bodo, Santhali, Maithili and Dogri. Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009 says that the medium of instruction shall, as far as practicable, be in a child’s mother tongue.
CA14. Ken-Betwa Interlinking Project Dam Link: https://science.thewire.in/politics/government/environment-ministry-defers- clearance-ken-betwa-interlinking-project-dam/ t clearance for the Lower Orr Dam, which is part of the Ken-Betwa river interlinking project. Identified as aAn national expert panelproject, of itIndia’s is part environment of the Ken-Betwa ministry river has interlinking deferred environmen project and envisages construction of a 45-metre-high and 2,218-metre long dam across Orr river in Madhya Pradesh to provide irrigation facility to 90,000 hectares of area. About the Project. Ken-Betwa river interlinking project is the first among the 30 identified river interlinking projects identified by the central government an effort that started in the early 1980s. It envisages a transfer of surplus water from river Ken’s basin in Madhya Pradesh to river Betwa’s basin in Uttar Pradesh to provide– water in areas in the upper Betwa basin that are facing water shortage. GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 37
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Problem with the Project: It involves submergence of over 9,000 hectares of area and out of that 5,803 hectares are prime forests of the Panna Tiger Reserve (PTR). In 2019, a Supreme Court committee had questioned the basis on which wildlife clearance was granted to it and questioned its economic viability as well. As the project would lead to submergence of prime forest area, which is also the habitat of endangered species like tiger and vultures, it had faced stiff opposition from the wildlife experts and conservationists. Expert panel has been all set to discuss clearance issue. Not important to discuss more on expert committees. A question to government:
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 38
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
CA15. Oman-India Friendship Association Link: https://www.mea.gov.in/press- releases.htm?dtl/33253/Virtual_Meeting_between_Foreign_Ministers_of_India_and_Oman
Oman recently announced to establish Friendship association with India. This will the first of such initiative in West Asia. EAM and Oman FM reviewed cooperation in key areas of India-Oman strategic partnership viz. defence and security, economic cooperation, capacity building and training, consular issues and people-to-people ties. They noted the huge potential for expanding economic partnership given the strong complementarities between the two economies. They emphasized the importance of health and food security in the coming times and the ability of the partnership of both countries to address them. The Ministers exchanged views on regional and multilateral issues and agreed to maintain close cooperation in multilateral fora. India-Oman Recent Developments a. In 2018, Indian PM Modi visited Oman and enhanced the cooperation between the countries in defence, energy, food security, trade and investment and regional issues. b. In December 2019, India and Oman signed the Maritime Transport Agreement. The pact was first of its kind that India signed with a Gulf country. c. The pact enabled India to expand its footprints in Southern Indian Ocean, Western Indian Ocean, East Africa and Persian Gulf. d. -Pacific Vision. The Indian Navy has been provided access to the Duqm Port. The Duqm port if the largest seaport located in the Indian ThisOcean. was India a part is planning of India’s several Indo projects in Oman. e. This includes a 1.2 billion project to set up the largest Sebacic Acid plant (which is the largest in Mid be constructed under 78 million USD. dle East). Also, an integrated tourism complex called “Little India” is to
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 39
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
CA16. Cannabis Removed from Dangerous Substances: UN Link: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/un-removes-cannabis-from-most- dangerous-drug-category-what-this-means-7092072/ In reviewing a series of World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations on marijuana and its derivatives, the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) voted on the decision to remove cannabis from Schedule IV of the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs where it was listed alongside deadly, addictive opioids, including heroin.
— States voted to removed cannabis where it had been placed for 59 years from the strictest control schedules, that even discouraged its use for medical Thepurposes. CND’s 53 Member – – But now, a. With an historic vote of 27 in favour, 25 against, and one abstention, the CND has opened the door to recognizing the medicinal and therapeutic potential of the commonly used but still largely illegal recreational drug. b. Moreover, according to news reports, the decision could also drive additional scientific research into the plant’s long-heralded medicinal properties and act as catalyst for countries to legalize the drug for medicinal use, and reconsider laws on its recreational use. From where all it started? a. Back in January 2019, WHO unveiled six WHO recommendations surrounding the scheduling of cannabis in UN drug control treaties.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 40
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1 b. While the p session, many countries had requested more time to study the endorsements and define theirroposals positions, were according originally to news set to reports. be voted on during the CND’s March 2019 c. l (CBD) a non-intoxicating compound is not subject to international controls. CBD has taken on a prominent role inAmong wellness WHO’s therapies many points, in recent it clarified years and that sparked cannabidio a billion-dollar– industry. d. Currently, more– than 50 countries have adopted medicinal cannabis programmes while Canada, Uruguay and 15 US states have legalized its recreational use, with Mexico and Luxembourg close to becoming the third and fo
Now role of India in this. urth countries to do so. While the Narcotics Control Bureau has been making high profile Bollywood arrests over cannabis possession, India has voted in favour of a highly divided resolution in the UN Commission for National Drugs to remove it from the category of most dangerous drugs. India did not deliver an explanation of its vote, but as per sources, the Indian position was that the medical uses of cannabis was “promising”. The recreational use of cannabis will continue to be strictly banned in India.
After signing the Single Convention on Narcotics in 1961, India ratified it in December 1964, but with reservations. India announced that it was accepting the provisions with the caveat that it will temporarily permit the use, production and manufacture of opium, cannabis, cannabis resin, extracts and tinctures for non-medical purposes. Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act 1985, the production, manufacture, possession, sale, purchase, transport, and use of cannabis is a Underpunishable India’s offence. The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) is vested with the power to charge individuals in cases related to the illegal use and supply of narcotics. Also see, Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND): The Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) was established by Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in 1946, to assist the ECOSOC in supervising the application of the international drug control treaties. In 1991, the General Assembly (GA) expanded the mandate of the CND to enable it to function as the governing body of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) reviews and analyzes the global drug situation, considering the interrelated issues of prevention of drug abuse, rehabilitation of drug users and supply and trafficking in illicit drugs. It takes action through resolutions and decisions.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 41
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Members of Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND). Members are elected: a. from among the States Members of the United Nations and members of the specialized agencies and the Parties to the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961, b. with due regard to the adequate representation of countries that are important producers of opium or coca leaves, c. of countries that are important in the field of the manufacture of narcotic drugs, and of countries in which drug addiction or the illicit traffic in narcotic drugs constitutes an important problem and d. taking into account the principle of equitable geographical distribution.
CA17. Chang’e-5 lunar probe Link: https://science.thewire.in/spaceflight/china-lands-spacecraft-on-moon-to- retrieve-rocks-a-timeline-of-achievements/
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 42
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
China successfully landed a spacecraft on the Moon’s surface in a historic mission to retrieve lunar surface s -5 probe on November 24. The mission, named after the mythical Chinese goddess of the Moon, aims to collect lunar material to help scientistsamples. learn China more launched about itsthe Chang’e Moon’s origins. The mission will attempt to collect 2 kg of samples in a previously unvisited area in a according to plan, the mission will return to Earth by mid-December with around 2 kg of lunarmassive soil lava and plain rock knownsamples as to Oceanus allow scientists Procellarum, a closer or ‘Ocean look of at Storms’. the satellite. If things go If the mission is completed as planned, it would make China the third nation to have retrieved lunar samples after the United States and the Soviet Union. - efforts to expand its space programme. Over the coming years, China aims to deepen its lunarChang’e presence5 is part and of setChina’s up a ambitiousbase for astronauts lunar mission, on the which Moon itself by the stems 2030s. from the country’s China is very smart. We are engage in farmers protests and China is enjoying on moon.
If we see China’s moon Programme: a. Phase 1 -1 did so successfully in 2007. b. involved a spacecraft being-2, proved inserted a success into the too lunar in 2010. orbit. After Chang’e achieving the goal of entering the lunar orbit, the spacecraft took off to explore other objects in space.The following It is scheduled mission, to Chang’e return somewhere closer to Earth in 2029. c. -3 & 4 comprised Phase 2, which involved landing and roving on the Moon. The former mission did so in 2013, while the latter created history by landing on the Chang’efar side of the moon in 2019.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 43
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1 d. Phase three involves sample returns, to be performed by C -5 mission and the -6 mission. Both will return lunar regolith (soil) samples from the near side. hang’e e. plannedThe final (2024) phase Chang’e involves setting up a scientific station on the moon, which will be -7 & 8 over the next decade. f. These missions will include orbiters, landers, rovers, and miniature flying spacecraft performedthat will survey by Chang’e the lunar South Pole for exploitable natural resources. They will also be equipped with 3D printers and will help set up instruments for a lunar science base. g. China eventually plans to land humans on the Moon and set up a crewed outpost at the South Pole in the 2030s as part of an international scientific collaboration. Other countries thinking of moon? Yes.
CA18. Economy firmly on the path of a V-shaped recovery Link: https://www.thehindu.com/business/economy-firmly-on-the-path-of-a-v-shaped- recovery-says- govt/article33243517.ece#:~:text=India's%20economy%20is%20firmly%20on,to%20the %20unlocking%20process%20along
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 44
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Economic recovery can take many forms, which is depicted using alphabetic notations. For example, a Z-shaped recovery, V-shaped recovery, U-shaped recovery, elongated U-shaped recovery, W-shaped recovery and L-shaped recovery. Z-shaped recovery: It is the most-optimistic scenario in which the economy quickly rises after an economic crash. It makes up more than for lost ground before settling back to the normal trend-line, thus forming a Z-shaped chart. is their ability to spend is restricted. In this economic disruption lasts for a small period wherein more than people’s incomes, it
V-shaped recovery: It is the next-best scenario after Z-shaped recovery in which the economy quickly recoups lost ground and gets back to the normal growth trend-line. In this, incomes and jobs are not permanently lost, and the economic growth recovers sharply and returns to the path it was following before the disruption.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 45
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
U-shaped recovery: It is a scenario in which the economy, after falling, struggles around a low growth rate for some time, before rising gradually to usual levels. In this case several jobs are lost and people fall upon their savings. If this process is more-long drawn than it throws up the
“elongated U” shape.
W-shaped recovery: A W-shaped recovery is a dangerous creature. In this, growth falls and rises, but falls again before recovering, thus forming a W-like chart. The double-dip depicted by a W-shaped recovery can be due to the second wave of the pandemic.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 46
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
L-shaped recovery: In this, the economy fails to regain the level of GDP even after years go by. The shape
shows that there is a permanent loss to the economy’s ability to produce.
CA19. Indo Gangetic plain global hotspot of atmospheric ammonia Link: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/science/indo-gangetic-plain-global- hotspot-of-atmospheric-ammonia-iit-kharagpur- study/articleshow/79546467.cms#:~:text=NEW%20DELHI%3A%20The%20Indo%2D%2 0Gangetic,of%20Technology%20(IIT)%20Kharagpur.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 47
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The Indo- Gangetic Plain (IGP) is the global hot-spot of atmospheric ammonia (NH3) due to intense agricultural activities and fertilizer production there, according to researchers at The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur. Ammonia (NH3) is a colourless gas which is both naturally occurring and manufactured. The main source of ammonia pollution is agriculture, where it is released from manure and slurry and through the application of manmade fertiliser. From news: a. Agro fertilizers containing high levels of ammonia have long been designated as a hazardous material for human health. b. For the first time in India, the seasonal and inter-annual variability of atmospheric ammonia emitted by the agricultural sector has been analyzed by researchers from IIT Kharagpur in collaboration with IITM Pune and European researchers. c. And the results are in agreement with the long-held apprehension of global environmentalists - the Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP) is indeed the global hot-spot of atmospheric ammonia (NH3) due to intense agricultural activities and fertilizer production there. d. Using IASI satellite measurements to analyze the seasonal and inter-annual variability of atmospheric NH3 over India for the period 2008-2016, the researchers observed atmospheric ammonia growing rapidly at a rate of 0.08% annually during the summer- monsoon (Kharif crop period) season from June to August. Agriculture, in its conventional form, contributes significantly to the atmospheric emission of gaseous ammonia that plays a key role in the deterioration of air quality over the whole of India by actively contributing to the formation of secondary aerosols. This demands regulations on the amount of fertilizer application in cropping seasons in arable lands, in place of conventional blanket recommendation practices, along with viable strategies to curb farm emissions. Something more:
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 48
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
CA20. Cobalt Production in India. Cobalt is an important ferromagnetic strategic alloying metal having irreplaceable industrial applications. Cobalt is associated mostly with copper, nickel and arsenic ores. Cobalt is extracted as a by-product of copper, nickel, zinc or precious metals. Cobalt is an essential mineral for the lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles, laptops and smart phones. It offers the highest energy density and is key for boosting battery life. Demand for cobalt is projected to surge fourfold by 2030 in pace with the electric vehicle boom.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 49
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Cobalt is used in the following core applications, all of which are important for both the quality of life and for a sustainable planet:
Presently, there is no production of cobalt in the country from indigenous ores. The demand for cobalt was met through imports. Refining capacity of cobalt in India is estimated at about 2,060 tonnes per year. The Katanga region in the south of the Democratic Republic of Congo is home to more than half of the world’s cobalt resources, and over 70% of the current cobalt production worldwide takes place in the country. Why cobalt is important for India now?
India aims to turn 30 percent of the vehicle’s battery-powered by 2030 third-largest economy looks to curb oil imports and push for cleaner transport. But nearly 80 percent of the world’s resources of Cobalt—an essential element in rechargeableas the Asia’s batteries for electric vehicles are locked up in just nine deposits in the Andes, the U.S., China and the Democratic Republic of Congo., — India is looking for such reserves overseas.
CA21. State Land (Vesting Ownership to the Occupants) Act, 2001 (Roshni Act) Link: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/jk-administration-seeks- review-of-order-on-roshni-act/article33266350.ece
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 50
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The Jammu and Kashmir government has moved an application before the J&K high court to advance its hearing of the review petition on the October 9 judgment of the J&K high court where a division bench had held that the Roshni act was “completely unconstitutional, contrary to law and unsustainable. What is Roshni Act? The Roshni Act guaranteed the transfer of proprietary titles to occupants of state land in return for a fee determined by the government, paving way for regularization of encroachments on public land and generating resources to fund power projects in the former state. Hence, the name ‘Roshni’. J&K was the first region in India to implement a land reform law in 1950 but a lot of land grab took place due to lax governance, with political elites encroaching on valuable land and the poor doing the same for inexpensive land.
In 2001, the National Conference government, led by Farooq Abdullah, enacted the Jammu and Kashmir State Land (Vesting of Ownership to the Occupants) Act that sought to regularize unauthorized land.
Anybody who had grabbed this land in the past, could now come to the government, make an application and pay a certain fee. Once the fee was paid, the land or property would be regularized in the hands of the owner.
What was the Problem with Roshni Act? a. A major problem of the Roshni Act was that it applied to only those who had grabbed land by 1990. Therefore, there were a lot of complaints from those who had taken land between 1990 and 2001. b. In 2003, the PDP-Congress government led by Mufti Mohammad Sayeed amended the law to shift the cut-off date from 1990 to 2004. c. presumption that this will soon get regularized. d. InPeople 2007, began the cut-off grabbing date more was furtherand more shifted land… by or the buying Ghulam it from Nabi the Azad poor… government on the to 2007. e. However, in 2014, a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) found irregularities in the transfer of the encroached land to occupants from 2007 to 2013. The report noted that the government had only collected Rs 76 crore of the estimated Rs. 25,000 crores. f. By 2014, the BJP had formed a government at the Centre. Four years later, the then J&K governor Satya Pal Malik repealed the Roshni Act. Please don’t read anything more than this. Not required at all.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 51
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
CA22. International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS). Link: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/ifsca-gets-membership-of- international-association-of-insurance-supervisors/article33233698.ece Gujarat International Finance Tec (GIFT) City regulator International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) has obtained membership of the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS).
With this membership IFSCA would have access to IAIS’s global network and would be able to exchange ideas and information with other global regulators. About International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS). a. Established in 1994, the IAIS headquartered in Switzerland is a voluntary membership organisation of insurance supervisors and regulators from more than 200 jurisdictions, constituting 97 per cent of the w b. It is the international standard-setting body responsible for developing and assisting in the implementation of principles, standards, and otherorld’s supporting insurance materialpremiums. for the supervision of the insurance sector. c. The IAIS also provides a forum for members to share their experiences and understanding of insurance supervision and insurance markets. d. Indian Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDAI) is among the leading members of IAIS.
In recognition of its collective expertise, the IAIS is routinely called upon by the G20 leaders and other international standard-setting bodies. About Indian Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDAI)
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 52
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India is an autonomous, statutory body tasked with regulating and promoting the insurance and re-insurance industries in India.
CA23. Coal Mining in North East India. Link: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/meghalaya-village- turns-oasis-in-coal-mine-desert/article33265390.ece
Moolamylliang, a village in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district, is making progress in becoming a greener place amid abandoned pits from the rat-hole mining. Moolamylliang used to be one such village until the National Green Tribunal (NGT) banned hazardous rat-hole coal mining in Meghalaya in April 2014 and set a time limit for transporting the coal already mined till that time. Though the NGT ban did not stop illegal mining in the district, it helped Moolamylliang reform. GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 53
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
A rat-hole mine involves digging of very small tunnels, usually only 3-4 feet deep, in which workers, more often children, enter and extract coal. Rat-hole mining is broadly of two types side-cutting and box-cutting. No need to learn type of rat hole mining.
–
Why is Rat Hole mining so prevalent in Meghalaya? According to available government data, Meghalaya has a total coal reserve of 640 million tonnes, most of which is mined unscientifically by individuals and communities. Since the coal seam is extremely thin in Meghalaya, no other method would be economically viable. Removal of rocks from the hilly terrain and putting up pillars inside the mine to prevent collapse would be costlier. In Meghalaya this is the locally developed technique and the most commonly used one. Coal Reserves in North Eastern states. Coal reserves are primarily found in the Eastern India in states of Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal and predominantly in North- East regions like Assam and Meghalaya. Despite the presence of coal reserves, commercial mining is not practiced in the North-Eastern regions because of terrain’s unsuitability as well as nature of coal deposits.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 54
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The Coal resources of India are available in older Gondwana Formations of peninsular India and younger Tertiary formations of north-eastern region.
Coal Reserves in North East India. Image is bit curved. But you can read. So, no worries.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 55
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Top 5 coal reserves states in India:
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 56
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Import of Coal into India.
CA24. Right to Vote for NRIs Link: https://thewire.in/politics/ec-must-call-all-party-meet-before-allowing-nris- to-vote-through-postal-ballots-cpim Recently, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has informed the Ministry of Law and Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS) to Non-Resident Indian (NRI) voters for electionsJustice that next it is year “technically in Assam, and West administratively Bengal, Kerala, ready” Tamil toNadu extend and thePuducherry. What is Electronically transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS)? Electronically transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS) is developed by Election Commission of India with the help of Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C- DAC), for the use of the Service Voters. It is a fully secured system, having two layers of security. Secrecy is maintained through the use of OTP and PIN and no duplication of
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 57
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1 casted Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot (ETPB) is possible due to the unique QR Code
This system enables the entitled service voters to cast their vote using an electronically received postal ballot from anywhere outside their constituency. The voters who make such a choice will be entitled for Postal Ballot delivered through Electronic Media for a particular election. It enables the voters to cast their vote on an electronically received postal ballot from their preferred location, which is outside their originally assigned voting constituency. This system would be an easier option of facilitating voting by the electors as the time constraint for dispatch of postal ballot has been addressed using this system. Till now, who all are allowed for Postal Ballots? At present, postal ballots are allowed for certain categories of voters (Service Voters) living in India, which include: a. Members of the Armed Forces. b. Members of the Armed Police Force of a State, serving outside that State. c. Persons employed under Government of India on post outside India. It is mentioned in Conduct of Election Rules, 1961. So, if now NRI is included in list, amendment to this rule will be done.
Current Voting Process for NRIs: a. Voting rights for NRIs were introduced only in 2011, through an amendment to the Representation of the People Act 1950. b. An NRI can vote in the constituency in his/her place of residence, as mentioned in the passport, is located. c. He/She can only vote in person and will have to produce her passport in original at the polling station for establishing identity. Current Strength of NRI Voters: GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 58
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
a. According to a Uni largest in the world at 16 million people. b. However, registrationted Nationsof NRI voters report has of 2015,been veryIndia’s low diaspora with a little population over one is lakhthe overseas Indian registered as voters in India. c. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, roughly 25,000 of them flew to India to vote.
CA25. China turns on "Artificial Sun" Link: https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/china-turns-on-artificial- sun/article33253082.ece
ChinaThe HL successfully-2M Tokamak powered reactor up isits China’s “artificial largest sun” nuclear and most fusion advanced reactor nuclear for the fusion first time. experimental research device, and scientists hope that the device can potentially unlock a powerful clean energy source. It uses a powerful magnetic field to fuse hot plasma and can reach temperatures of over 150 million degrees Celsius, - approximately ten times hotter than the core of the sun. The
reactor is often called an “artificial sun” on account of the enormousGOALTIDE heat and IAS ACADEMYpower it 59
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1 produces and its mimic of the nuclear fusion process that the real sun uses to generate energy. a donut that generates powerful magnetic forces to contain unimaginably hot plasma inside the reactor during nuclear fusion.A ‘Tokamak’ The walls is a reactor of a tokamak design are that built resembles to absorb a donut the massive — amounts of heat from the
continuousSignificance splitting of Experiment of atoms in the reactor’s core. a. Very large-scale continuous energy production, with zero greenhouse gas emissions and no long-life radioactive waste. b. The project has been endorsement by International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), the massive multina largest magnetic nuclear fusion device. This shoes that global energy aims will be a collaborative and cooperative process.tional initiative that aims to produce the world’s c. EAST will be one of only a few international devices that can serve as an important experimental test bench for conducting ITER-related steady-state advanced plasma science and technology research. Watch a small video. Click here. CA26. Bauxite mining in India Link: https://india.mongabay.com/2020/12/bauxite-mining-threatens-indias-lone-wolf- sanctuary-and-an-interstate-river/
News was Local communities in the bordering villages of Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh complain that bauxite mining in the region is threatening India’s only wolf sanctuary (Mahuadanr Wolf sanctuary) and affecting the Burha river.
They allege the Burha river originating in Chhattisgarh, and flowing through the Palamau tiger reserve in Jharkhand, is drying up due to mining activities. Locals in Chhattisgarh allege that dust pollution is a major concern for them as it becomes difficult for them to grow crops.
Just three things from above paragraph: Learn.
1. Wolf sanctuary 2. Palamau Tiger Reserve 3. Burha River
Now we will see in detail about Aluminum.
In brief how Aluminium is formed?
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 60
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Alumina is the common name given to aluminum oxide (Al2O3). Alumina is produced from bauxite, an ore that is mined from topsoil in various tropical and subtropical regions. The Bayer process, discovered in 1887, is the primary process by which alumina is extracted from bauxite. To produce pure aluminum, alumina is smelted using the Hall Héroult electrolytic process. This process is referred to as primary production. – Secondary Production is the process of recycling aluminum scrap into aluminum that can be used again an environmentally sound process that is 92 percent more energy efficient than primary production. The increased adoption of recycled aluminum in manufacturing has created significant— economic and environmental wins for both industry and consumers.
By States, Odisha alone accounts for 51% of country's resources of bauxite followed by Andhra Pradesh (16%), Gujarat (9%), Jharkhand (6%), Maharashtra (5%) and Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh (4% each). Major bauxite resources are concentrated in the East Coast bauxite deposits in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
Odisha emerged as the leading producing State accounting for about 51% of the total production during 2017-18.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 61
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
TRADE POLICY
As per the Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020 and policy on export and import, imports of Aluminium ores and concentrates including natural bauxite, calcined and activated bauxite and others are permitted free. There are no policy restrictions on the export of bauxite.
WORLD REVIEW
The world bauxite reserves are estimated at 30 billion tonnes and are located mainly in Guinea (25%), Australia (20%), Vietnam (12%), Brazil (9%), Jamaica (7%), Indonesia, Guyana and China (3% each).
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 62
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Australia continued to be the major producer and accounted for about 29% share in total production, followed by China (21%), Guinea (15%), Brazil (13%) and India (7%).
CA27. Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) Scheme Link: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1679342
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister has given its approval for the proposal of DoT for setting up of Public Wi-Fi Networks by Public Data Office Aggregators (PDOAs) to provide public Wi-Fi service through Public Data Offices (PDOs) spread across length and breadth of the country to accelerate proliferation of Broadband Internet GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 63
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1 services through Public Wi-Fi network in the country. There shall be no license fee for providing Broadband Internet through these public Wi-Fi networks.
The proposal will promote the growth of Public Wi-Fi Networks in the country and, in turn, will help in proliferation of Broadband Internet, enhancement of income and employment and empowerment of people.
Salient Features:
This Public Wi-Fi Access Network Interface will be known as PM-WANI.PM-WANI eco- system will be operated by different players as described herein under:
Public Data Office (PDO): It will establish, maintain, and operate only WANI compliant Wi-Fi Access Points and deliver broadband services to subscribers.
Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA): It will be an aggregator of PDOs and perform the functions relating to Authorization and Accounting.
App Provider: It will develop an App to register users and discover WANI compliant Wi-Fi hotspots in the nearby area and display the same within the App for accessing the internet service.
Central Registry: It will maintain the details of App Providers, PDOAs, and PDOs. To begin with, the Central Registry will be maintained by C-DoT.
Objectives a. While no registration would be required for PDOs, PDOAs and App Providers will get themselves registered with DoT through online registration without paying any registration fee. Registration shall be granted within 7 days of the application. b. This is expected to be more business friendly and in line with efforts for ease of doing business. c. COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated delivery of stable and high-speed Broadband Internet (data) services to an increasingly large number of subscribers in the country including areas which do not have 4G mobile coverage. This can be achieved by deployment of Public Wi-Fi. d. Further, the proliferation of public Wi-Fi will not only create employment but also enhance disposable incomes in the hands of small and medium entrepreneurs and boost the GDP of the country. e. Proliferation of Broadband Services through public Wi-Fi is a step towards digital India and consequential benefit thereon. f. No License Fee for providing broadband internet services using public Wi-Fi Hotspots will massively encourage its proliferation and penetration across the length and breadth of the country.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 64
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
CA28. Technical Specifications of Floating Structures Link: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=1678806
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has compiled the draft guidelines for technical specifications of floating structures, with a vision to set up and deploy world- class floating infrastructure all along the coastline and issued the same for public consultation.
Floating structure because of its inherent advantages, is attractive solution and being encouraged by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The benefits of floating jetties over the conventional quay and fixed concrete structures are as follows:
a. It is a cost-effective solution and much cheaper than conventional structures price. b. Setting up of floating structures is much faster as compared to conventional jetties. Usually, floating structures can be built in 6-8 months as compared to 24 months for conventional structures. c. Its environmental impact is minimal. d. Expansions are easily feasible due to modular construction techniques. e. It is easily transportable in case of reconfiguring of the port. f. It provides constant freeboard between jetties and boats.
Deployment of floating jetties, especially in locations having a large tidal range, where conventional quay poses problems during low tide periods, is very convenient. Floating Jetties, at such locations, provide const catch. It consequently leads to increased productivity as well as safety of the fishermenant freeboard, in the long eases run. embarkation of ship’s stores and straightforward unloading of the fishermen’s GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 65
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
CA29. Central waqf Council Link: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1678292
The process of establishing Waqf Boards in Jammu and Kashmir and Leh Kargil has started recently.
We will learn about Central waqf Council
Central Waqf Council is a statutory body under the administrative control of the Ministry of Minority Affairs was set up in 1964 as per the provision given in the Waqf Act, 1954 as Advisory Body to the Central Government on matters concerning the working of the Waqf Boards and the due administration of Auqaf (assets).
However, the role of the Council was expanded significantly under the provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2013. The Council has been empowered to advise the Central Government, State Governments and State Waqf Boards. It will now issue directives to the boards/ State Government to furnish information to the Council on the performance of the board particularly on their financial performance, survey, revenue records, encroachment of Waqf properties, Annual and Audit report etc. under section 9 (4) of the act.
The Council consists of Chairperson, who is the Union Minister In charge of Waqf and such other members, not exceeding 20 in number, as may be appointed by the Government
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 66
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1 of India. Presently Shri Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Union Minister of Minority Affairs is the ex- officio Chairperson of the Central Waqf Council.
Major Function:
a. To advise Central Government, State Governments, State Waqf Boards on matters concerning the working of the Boards and due administration of Auqaf. b. To monitor the implementation of the provisions of Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2013 in States and UTs. c. To render legal advice on protection and retrieval of the Waqf Properties and for removal of encroachment etc. d. To implement the Scheme for Development of Urban Waqf Properties & Identification of potential Waqf land for development by National Waqf Development Corporation Ltd. e. To implement Educational and Women Welfare Schemes for skill development and to empower the poor, especially Women. f. To undertake awareness programmes to promote the interest of the Council and to sensitize the Waqf institutions about their new roles and responsibilities.
CA30. Scientists discover 80-million-year-old dinosaur had a bone infection that humans have today Link: https://theprint.in/science/scientists-discover-80-million-year-old-dinosaur-had-a- bone-infection-that-humans-have-today/562161/
Paleontologists studying dinosaur fossils and reconstructing models of their bones have discovered that one of the beasts suffered from a case of osteomyelitis or a bone infection the earliest evidence of such an infection in any organism.
— GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 67
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
a. They were studying bones of titanosaurs, some of the largest dinosaurs to walk on Earth and lived around 80 million years ago, in the Cretaceous period. b. The bone infection, which led to inflammation, was seemingly also worsened by parasitic microorganisms that infected the dinosaur repeatedly, damaging its tissues. c. The findings will be published in the February 2021 edition of the journal Cretaceous Research. d. The disease exists to this day and affects humans, among other animals. In children, arms and legs are affected while in adults, it affects the pelvis and vertebrae. e. The disease can be caused due to infectious teeth, use of drugs, intravenous drug abuse, or as a secondary complication from other illnesses like tuberculosis.
Increased findings into dinosaur diseases has led to further research into existing fossil specimens in museums and universities across the globe, providing us insights into the health and evolution of the biggest creatures that roamed the planet.
CA31. Reforms in Agriculture Marketing A small history of regulation of Agriculture Marketing In India, agricultural produce market regulations have been in place even during the British rule since the producers had to incur high marketing costs due to varied reasons such as Hatta system available at reasonable prices in the textile mills of Manchester, the first regulated market (Karanja), and trader’swas established monopoly. in Since 1886 the under British Hyderabad rulers wanted Residency to make Order cotton. Berar Cotton and Grain Market Act of 1887 was the first legislation under which an empowered British Resident could decide any place in the assigned district as a market and set up a committee to supervise regulated markets.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 68
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The act was considered a model for the rest of the country. The recommendation of the Royal Commission of Agriculture is considered an important landmark in the history of agriculture marketing.
It was only in 1960s and 70s that the states began implementing the regulations, and gradually, organized agricultural marketing came into existence with the establishment of APMCs.
In 2003, to bring about a much-needed reform in the agriculture market, the then government released the 2003 Model APMC Act that brought about new market channels such as private wholesale markets, direct purchase, and contract farming.
The latest model Agricultural Produce and Livestock Marketing (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2017 was released in 2017 to bring about reforms in agricultural marketing after 14 years of the first model act in 2003.
One thing is very important to note here is:
As per the Constitution of India. Intra-state trade in commodities falls under the State list, therefore, different states have different APMC Acts, and the marketing committees are set up as per the law prevalent there. As per a Lok Sabha answer as in November 2019, Arunachal Pradesh had adopted the 2017 model fully while the states of Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Punjab had adopted some of the major provisions of the act.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 69
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
What are the major drawbacks of APMC? a. One major drawback of the APMC model is the restriction imposed on farmers. A farmer is not allowed to sign a contract with a manufacturer or processor. b. It is mandatory that they sell their produce through the specified channels. c. Furthermore, even though the act is planned to avoid monopoly, the act tacitly allows mon d. Prevalent corruption in APMCs and typical bureaucratic machinery also act as hindrancesopoly of to the the APMC farmer. over buying the farmer’s produce. e. These acts also impose multiple levies of mandi fee and multiple licenses need to be acquired. These shortcomings have been hotly debated in the light the COVID-19 induced lockdown. One of the three Acts, Farmers Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020 remove this problem of APMC. We have already covered all three bills in details in previous sections but today also we will see to it. Now we will look at in brief three bills focus on reducing the barriers in Agricultural Marketing. a. Farmers Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020 b. Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020 c. Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020. Farmers Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020 The stated purpose of this act is to create an ecosystem where the farmers and the traders have the flexibility of choice with the availability of various alternatives. The act also aims to promote efficient, transparent and barrier free inter-state and intra-state trading beyond the APMCs (Agricultural Produce Market Committee)
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 70
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The act limits the control of APMCs to the APMC market yard and the other trading parties are free to transact the agricultural produce beyond the limits of market yards which are
nowEssential being Commodities referred to as (Amendment)‘trade area’. Act, 2020 The second act is an amendment to the existing Essential Commodities Act- 1955. The act aims to remove the unpredictability in notifying stocking limits by linking to rule- based price triggers. The restrictions on the stocking of Essential commodities would be deployed only under exceptional circumstances. The removal of stocking limits is seen by some as aiding the larger players who can now stock the agricultural produce in larger quantities, which was not the case prior to the amendment. As per the amendment, the stocking limits can only be invoked in case there is a 100 % increase in the retail price of horticultural produce or 50% increase in retail price of non-perishable food stuffs.
Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement in Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 71
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
This act provides for written agreements between the farmers and other parties (agri- business firms, processors, wholesalers, individual traders, individuals etc.) This act provides a framework for contract farming with minimal obligations compared to an earlier proposed Model Contract Farming Act in 2018. It expands the scope of what are considered as farm services. Prior to this national level legislation regarding contract farming, framing of any law related to this subject was left to the state governments. Only a few states have created dedicated laws pertaining to contract farming.
CA32. Inter-governmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) Link: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/wildlife-biodiversity/worldwide-legal- wildlife-trade-increased-by-2-000-since-1980-74600 A report released by IPBES says that, it is not just the illegal trade in wildlife that has been denuding populations worldwide. Even legal trade has increased manifold in the last three decades and has become highly unsustainable, according to a new report released December 10, 2020.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 72
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The report has been prepared by the by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), an intergovernmental organisation established to improve the interface between science and policy on issues of biodiversity and ecosystem services. The European Union and the United States were leading consumers of legally traded wildlife. The US was one of the largest legal importers of wildlife globally, with 10-20 million individual wild animals imported each year, largely for the pet trade. Learn about Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES)
IPBES currently has 137 member States. A large number of NGOs, organizations, conventions and civil society groupings also participate in the formal IPBES process as observers.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 73
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Is India a member of it? Yes.
CA33. Lakshadweep Declared an Organic Union Territory Link: https://www.dailypioneer.com/2020/india/lakshadweep-first-ut-to-become-100-- organic.html After Sikkim, Lakshadweep is the first Union Territory to become 100 per cent organic as all farming is carried out without the use of synthetic fertilisers and pesticides, providing
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 74
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1 access to safer food choices and making agriculture a more environment-friendly activity. The ministry of agriculture has declared the island as organic. Schemes to promote organic farming in India. Government of India has been promoting organic farming under two dedicated schemes namely Mission Organic Value Chain Development North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER) and Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) since 2015 through State Governments. Under these schemes, support is provided for Producer Organization; input procurement, value addition including postharvest infrastructure creation, packaging, branding, publicity,formation transportation, of farmers’ clusters/ organic Farmer fairs etc. a. Under PKVY, assistance of Rs. 50,000 per hectare/ 3 years is allowed out of which Rs. 31,000 (61%) is provided to farmer directly through DBT for input (biofertilizers, biopesticides, vermicompost, botanical extracts etc.) production/ procurement, packing, marketing etc. b. Under MOVCDNER, assistance is provided to the farmers in a value chain mode starting from formation of Farmers Producer Organisations (FPOs), on/off farm input production, supply of seeds/ planting materials, post-harvest infrastructure including collection, sorting, grading facilities, establishment of integrated processing unit, refrigerated transportation, pre-cooling/ cold stores chamber, branding, labelling and packaging, etc. Organic Farming is also supported under other schemes viz Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) and Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), Network Project on Organic Farming under ICAR. Third party certification of organic farming is promoted by Agriculture Processed Food and Export Development Authority (APEDA), Ministry of Commerce. Now two important points below, very important for Prelims.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 75
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Cultivable land area under organic farming has more than doubled from 11.83 lakh ha in 2014 to 29.17 lakh ha in 2020 due to the focused efforts of the Government. See map also.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 76
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
CA34. New Height for Mount Everest Link: https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/nepal-china-announce-revised- height-of-mount-everest-as-884886-metres/article33278185.ece Very small news but is important. Nepal and China have announced the revised height of Mount Everest as 8,848.86 metres. The new height is 86 cm more than the previous measurement. The 8,848m height Nepal had been using for Mount Everest was determined by the Survey of India in 1954, but for the first time the country has now conducted its own measurement of the summit
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 77
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Survey of India, The National Survey and Mapping Organization of the country under the Department of Science & Technology, is the OLDEST SCIENTIFIC DEPARTMENT OF THE GOVT. OF INDIA. It was set up in 1767 and has evolved rich traditions over the years. In its assigned role as the nation's Principal Mapping Agency, Survey of India bears a special responsibility to ensure that the country's domain is explored and mapped suitably, provide base maps for expeditious and integrated development and ensure that all resources contribute with their full measure to the progress, prosperity and security of our country now and for generations to come. Few maps:
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 78
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Something more, not useful for exam. Interesting to find:
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 79
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
CA35. National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) It was in news due to Tat-Mistry dispute. No need to know for Prelims. Just learn National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) was constituted under Section 410 of the Companies Act, 2013 for hearing appeals against the orders of National Company Law Tribunal(s) (NCLT), with effect from 1st June 2016. NCLAT is also the Appellate Tribunal for hearing appeals against the orders passed by NCLT(s) under Section 61 of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (IBC), with effect from 1st December 2016. NCLAT is also the Appellate Tribunal for hearing appeals against the orders passed by Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India under Section 202 and Section 211 of IBC. NCLAT is also the Appellate Tribunal to hear and dispose of appeals against any direction issued or decision made, or order passed by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) as per the amendment brought to Section 410 of the Companies Act, 2013 by Section 172 of the Finance Act, 2017, with effect from 26th May 2017. – Composition: The President of the Tribunal and the chairperson and Judicial Members of the Appellate Tribunal shall be appointed after consultation with the Chief Justice of India.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 80
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The Members of the Tribunal and the Technical Members shall be appointed on the recommendation of a Selection Committee consisting of:
CA36. Climate Change Performance Index Link: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/india-a-top-performer-on- climate-mitigation-but-more-needs-to-be-done-report- 74547#:~:text=The%20country%20scored%2063.98%20points,an%20overall%20score %20of%2066.02. India ranked high along with the European Union and the United Kingdom in the latest edition of the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) released by non-profit Germanwatch December 7, 2020.
We will see this index in Brief: The Climate Change Performance Index compares 57 countries and the EU (which are together responsible for more than 90% of GHG emissions) in the areas of Greenhouse Gas
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 81
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Emissions, Renewable Energies, Energy Use and Climate Policy, thus providing a comprehensive overview of the current efforts and progress of the countries analyzed. On the basis of standardized criteria, the CCPI currently evaluates and compares the climate protection performance of 57 countries and of the European Union (EU), which are together responsible for more than 90% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The last country to be added was Chile for the CCPI 2020.
Besides, it measures how well countries are on track to meet the global goals of the Paris Agreement by evaluating the current status and future targets of each category with reference to a well-below 2°C pathway. In the report it is mentioned that: a. No country was doing enough to meet the goals of the 2015 Paris Agreement, according to the index. b. Six G20 countries were ranked among very low performers. The United States, with a rank of 61, was the worst performer. c. India, for the second time in a row, continued to remain in the top 10. The country scored 63.98 points out of 100. d. It received high ratings on all CCPI indicators (above four in image) except ‘renewable energy’, where it was categorized as medium’ performance. e. Last year, India had been ranked at the ninth position, with an overall score of 66.02. having a ‘ f. Although India has one of the largest growth trends, per capita emissions stay at a comparatively low level, rated very high for their well-below 2°C compatibility.
CA37. Blockchain Technology A small definition on Blockchain technology
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 82
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Blockchain is a system of recording information in a way that makes it difficult or impossible to change, hack, or cheat the system. A blockchain is essentially a digital ledger of transactions that is duplicated and distributed across the entire network of computer systems on the blockchain. Each block in the chain contains a number of transactions, and every time a new transaction
The decentralized database managed by multiple participants is known as Distributed Ledgeroccurs onTechnology the blockchain, (DLT). a Blockchain record of that is a transactiontype of DLT is in added which to transactions every participant’s are recorded ledger. with an immutable cryptographic signature called a hash.
Now, we will see BT with respect to India and its advantages and disadvantages. A defining moment for BT in India was the judgment of the Supreme Court in Internet and Mobile Association of India v. RBI of 2018, which set aside the ban imposed by the Reserve Bank of India ("RBI") on bitcoins and other cryptocurrencies. A perusal of this judgment would show that the Court was mindful of various aspects including the fundamental rights of persons involved in dealing with bitcoins. The Court clearly held that while regulation of this trade would be within the domain of the RBI, banning of the same would be violative of fundamental rights. The budget speech of the then Finance Minister finds reference in the judgment. He had said
"The– Government will take all measures to eliminate the use of crypto-assets in financing illegitimate activities and will also explore the use of blockchain technology for ushering in digital economy."
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 83
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Problems with Blockchain Technology. a. Firstly, blockchain transactions have no borders and hence, jurisdiction is a vexed issue. Where and how a dispute can be raised remains an unanswered question. b. Another important aspect of BT is the prescribing of standards. There are no globally acceptable standards, either governmental or non-governmental, for the purpose of creating BT applications. In the absence of standards, BT is also being used in the dark web for indulging in criminal activities, such as the sale of arms, drugs, terrorist activities, funding of terrorism etc. c. Blockchain technology depends upon public and private keys allotted to users and their interface with the hash function. What happens if a private key is misused or tampered with? Are there any legal remedies? One doesn't know. d. There is no central authority which monitors BT; however, recent adaptations of BT are being used by governmental authorities for verifying and authenticating ownership of moveable/immovable assets. Importance of Blockchain: There are various positive uses to which Blockchain Technology can be put. Each of us is aware of the number of times we have to submit our identification cards, education certificates and such related documents for even the smallest of functions such as opening of a bank account. a. The sheer manpower and time which is spent in submission, verification and authentication of such documents separately in each and every organisation can be completely eliminated by using BT.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 84
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
b. The submission of one identification should mean automatic authentication and verification of all data relating to the said individual. This can be achieved through BT without compromising privacy. c. Similarly, verification of banking transactions of an individual across multiple bank accounts could also be made easier with BT. d. E-commerce transactions, insurance, could all be meshed together. The power of mathematical applications in the collection, authentication, verification and use of large amounts of data can be realized with Blockchain Technology. e. BT can also have various applications in the legal field, especially in the streamlining and simplification of transactional work. f. Smart contracts, for instance, could be used to automate payment in transactions involving delivery of goods, upon satisfaction of certain conditions. g. Lawyers could also use BT to store confidential data instead of emailing sensitive personal data back and forth. h. Transactions conducted using BT may result in contractual disputes, consumer disputes or even disputes under the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881. There is no mechanism to deal with them at this point.
Related legislations regarding BT to come: a. The draft Banning of Cryptocurrency Bill, 2019 would be a legislation to watch out for. Use of blockchain technology for various purposes such as research, education etc., is legal as per the Bill. A digital rupee is also contemplated. b. There are other dimensions of blockchain technology which may be covered under the recent data protection legislation - Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, which is in the pipeline. The IT Act, 2000 defines 'data' and related terminologies. The
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 85
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
susceptibility of hacking, tampering or misuse would fall in the domain of the IT Act, 2000. Various countries around the world such as Japan and Australia have legalized bitcoins and other digital currencies. The path that India is to take is a question of policy. However, the positive implementations and applications of blockchain technology cannot be ignored and ought to be recognised and used.
CA38. Kerala’s ‘pink phenomenon’ in water bodies. Link: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/wildlife-biodiversity/kerala-s-pink- phenomenon-can-choke-water-bodies-and-drains-warn-scientists-74645
Avalapandi is winning hearts and curiosity of tourists for a peculiar reason. The widespread growth of an aquatic plant— hasa sleepy, painted remote the agrarianwater bodies village pink in Kerala’s, and hundreds Kozhikode have district descended — to the village in the middle of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic to witness it.
The plant behind the ‘pink phenomenon’ is forked fanwort, which comes from the family of Red Cabomba. Cabomba is a submerged perennial aquatic plant that grows in stagnant to slow-flowing freshwater. It dominantly belongs to Central and South America. But it is dangerous. The plant will spread in the water bodies across the state, choking them as well as the drainage canals. It requires a huge amount of oxygen to grow and that could badly affect freshwater biodiversity. The water quality would also be affected. The researchers have declared it as invasive. impact the native biodiversity, ecosystem function, health and human welfare are called invasive“Any biological alien species. species They that are introducedthe second-biggest outside causetheir natural for biodiversity range and loss, negatively next to
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 86
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1 habitat destruction. Invasive alien species could reproduce rapidly and out-compete the
Thenative team species is now for preparing food, water a detailed and space.” action plan that would be submitted to the Kozhikode district administration to remove the invasive plant. Not the first time The first known information on Cabomba in Kerala became available in 1952. Later, in 1965 and 1966, embryological studies were carried out at the University of Madras, Chennai. A decade later, in 1977, Cabomba was first authentically reported from the environs of Cochin.
CA39. Partners in Population and Development Initiative (PPD) Link: https://pib.gov.in/Pressreleaseshare.aspx?PRID=1679131 Recently, the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare has digitally addressed the Inter-Ministerial Conference by Partners in Population and Development (PPD). Partners in Population and Development Initiative Partners in Population and Development (PPD) is an Inter-governmental Alliance of 27 developing countries with a mission to expand and improve South-South collaboration in the fields of family planning and reproductive health, population and development through the governments, NGOs and private sector organizations. I t was created at the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) in Cairo in 1994. Members: PPD Members are developing countries committed to the implementation of the ICPD Programme of Action, willing to provide political, technical and financial support to South-South Cooperation. We are bother whether India is a member or not.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 87
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The Secretariat of PPD is located in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Inter-Ministerial Conference by PPD It was jointly organised by PPD, National Health Commission of China (NHC) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Objective: Advocate and ensure political support and investment to address the effects of Covid-19 pandemic in the achievement of the Three Zeros by 2030, finalized under the Nairobi Summit 2019. Three Zeros by 2030: Pledges were announced to achieve zero preventable maternal deaths, zero unmet need for family planning, and zero gender-based violence and harmful practices by 2030. India appreciated the efforts of PPD in promoting cooperation in key areas of reproductive health, population and development.
CA40. Cattle, buffalo meat residue found in Indus Valley vessels Link: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/study-of-lipid-residue-reveals-cattle- buffalo-meat-in-indus-valley- vessels/article33292289.ece#:~:text=A%20new%20study%20has%20found,day%20Hary ana%20and%20Uttar%20Pradesh.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 88
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
A new study has found the presence of animal products, including cattle and buffalo meat, in ceramic vessels dating back about 4,600 years at seven Indus Valley Civilisation sites in present-day Haryana and Uttar Pradesh (Rakhigarhi, Farmana and Masudpur.) Key findings: 1. About 50-60% of domestic animal bones found at Indus Valley sites come from cattle/ buffalo. 2. The high proportions of cattle bones may suggest a cultural preference for beef consumption across Indus populations, supplemented by the consumption of mutton/ lamb. 3. Lipid residues in Indus pottery show a dominance of animal products in vessels, such as the meat of non-ruminant animals like pigs, ruminant animals like cattle or buffalo and sheep or goat, as well a dairy products.
CA41. How Neural Network works? Link: https://science.thewire.in/the-sciences/explained-what-is-a-neural-network/
First see what the few examples of Neural networks are: It will become easier to understand topics. What are some examples of neural networks that are familiar to most people? a. There are many applications of neural networks. One common example is your
smartphone camera’s ability to recognize faces.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 89
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
b. Driverless cars are equipped with multiple cameras which try to recognize other vehicles, traffic signs and pedestrians by using neural networks, and turn or adjust their speed accordingly. c. Neural networks are also behind the text suggestions you see while writing texts or emails, a
Does the networknd even need in to the have translation’s prior knowledge tools available of something online. to be able to classify or recognise it? hy there is a need to use big data in training neural networks. They work because they are trained on vast amounts of data to then recognise, classify and predict things.Yes, that’s w Example: In the driverless cars example, it would need to look at millions of images and video of all the things on the street and be told what each of those things is. When you click on the images of crosswalks to prove that you’re not a robot while browsing the internet, it can also be used to help train a neural network. Only after seeing millions of crosswalks, from all different angles and lighting conditions, would a self-driving car be able to recognise them when it’s driving around in real life. In the video linked click here, the network is given the task of going from point A to point B, and you can see it trying all sorts of things to try to get the model to the end of the course, until it finds one that does the best job. How does a basic neural network work? A neural network is a network of artificial neurons programmed in software. It tries to brain. The first layer of neurons will receive inputs like images, video, sound, text, etc. This inputsimulate data the goes human through brain, all so the it layers,has many as the layers output of “neurons” of one layer just is like fed theinto neurons the next in layer. our
Let’s take an example of a neural network that is trained to recognise dogs and cats. The first layer of neurons will break up this image into areas of light and dark. This data will be fed into the next layer to recognise edges. The next layer would then try to recognise the shapes formed by the combination of edges. The data would go through several layers in a similar fashion to finally recognise whether the image you showed it is a dog or a cat according to the of parameters to classify and recognise the input it receives. data it’s been trained on. These networks can be incredibly complex and consist of millions
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 90
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
CA42. Rise in AI Adoption in India Amidst Pandemics
Why in news? As per a report by PwC (a global network of firms), India reported a 45% increase in the use of Artificial Intelligence, the highest among all countries, following the outbreak of the virus.
Key finding:
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 91
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The rise of AI adoption (45%) recorded in the country is the highest, when compared to major economies like the USA, Japan and the UK. The USA recorded a 35% rise, the UK 23% and Japan 28% following the outbreak of the virus. The report attributes the growing AI adoption to the shift in buying behaviour and new business challenges (owing to Covid-19 pandemic). For instance, AI-enabled use cases like contactless sales and delivery have gained traction.
AI solutions are also being used to make the workplace safer and enforce best practices. The sectors with highest Covid-19 led disruption adopted AI solutions in a more definitive manner. In the travel and hospitality sector, 89% firms have implemented AI in some form.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 92
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The increased adoption of AI can be attributed to the following factors:
Perceived risk of AI: Now we have covered complete analysis of PWC report, which will help you in writing question related to AI in main exam, but before we processed ahead it is necessary to have basic idea of AI and initiative taken by Indian government. GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 93
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Let, we understand what AI (artificial intelligence) is: It describes the action of machines accomplishing tasks that have historically required human intelligence. It includes technologies like machine learning, pattern recognition, big data, neural networks, self-algorithms etc. AI involves complex things such as feeding a particular data into the machine and making it react as per the different situations. It is basically about creating self-learning patterns where the machine can give answers to the never answered questions like a human would ever do. AI technology helps in analyzing data and thus can improve the efficiency of the systems like power management in cars, mobile devices, weather predictions, video and image analysis.
Example (Use): Self driving cars Initiative taken by Indian government: India has launched National AI Strategy and National AI Portal and has also started leveraging AI across various sectors such as education, agriculture, healthcare, e- commerce, finance, telecommunications, etc.
Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI)’ as a founding member to support the responsible and human-centric development and use of AI.Recently, India joined the ‘ GPAI is an international and multi-stakeholder initiative to guide the responsible development and use of AI, grounded in human rights, inclusion, diversity, innovation, and economic growth. This is also a first initiative of its type for evolving better understanding of the challenges and opportunities around AI using the experience and diversity of participating countries. In order to achieve this goal, the initiative will look to bridge the gap between theory and practice on AI by supporting cutting-edge research and applied activities on AI-related priorities.
CA43. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Link: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/drdo-successfully-demonstrates- quantum-communication-between-two-labs/article33292632.ece The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully demonstrated communication between its two labs using Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology, hare encryption keys. whichWhat isis Quantuma “robust” keyway distributionto s (QKD)? Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a secure communication method for exchanging encryption keys only known between shared parties. The communication method uses
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 94
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1 properties found in quantum physics to exchange cryptographic keys in such a way that is provable and guarantees security. What you need to know about this technology? Typical encryption relies on traditional mathematics and while for now it is more or less adequate and safe from hacking, the development of quantum computing threatens that. a. Quantum computing refers to a new era of faster and more powerful computers, and the theory goes that they would be able to break current levels of encryption. b. QKD works by using photons the particles which transmit light to transfer data. c. QKD allows two distant users, who do not share a long secret key initially, to produce a common, random string of secret— bits, called a secret key. — d. Using the one-time pad encryption this key is proven to be secure to encrypt and decrypt a message, which can then be transmitted over a standard communication channel.
Significance of this technology:
unbreakable” and that’s mainly because of the way data is carried via the photon. A photon cannot be perfectly copied and any attempt to measure it will disturbThe encryption it. This means is “ that a person trying to intercept the data will leave a trace. The implications could be huge for cybersecurity, making businesses safer, but also making it more difficult for governments to hack into communication. Challenges of QKD Primarily, there are three prevailing challenges to QKD: the integration of QKD systems into current infrastructure, the distance in which photons can travel and the use of QKD in the first place. For now, it is currently difficult to implement an ideal infrastructure for QKD. QKD is perfectly secure in theory, but in practice, imperfections in tools like single photon detectors create many security vulnerabilities. It is important to keep security analysis in mind.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 95
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
CA44. Israel set to open up parts of Herod’s palace Link: https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/israel-set-to-open-up-parts-of- herods-palace/article33301564.ece
Israeli authorities are set to unveil previously off- palace-fortress, Herodium, which the tyrannical Roman-era leader interred as his enormous burial plot. limits structures within King Herod’s Herodium, a popular tourism destination, is near Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank but falls in an area where Israel exercises military and civilian control. Archaeologists say Herod decided towards the end of his life to bury his palace, using ground from below the hill it was perched upon, until the outline of the structure was no longer visible.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 96
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
CA45. ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus Link: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/structures-supporting-terror-continue- to-exist-in-indias-neighbourhood-rajnath/article33303528.ece The 14th ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM) Plus was held virtually recently. ADMM was established in 2006. ADMM Plus was established in 2010. cooperative mechanism in ASEAN. The ADMM aims to promote mutual trust and confidenceThe ASEAN throughDefence greaterMinisters’ understanding Meeting (ADMM) of defence is the and highest security defence challenges consultative as well and as enhancement of transparency and openness.
The ADMM-Plus is a platform for ASEAN and its eight Dialogue Partners, namely Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, ROK, Russian Federation and the United States, to
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 97
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1 strengthen security and defence cooperation for peace, stability, and development in the region. The Inaugural ADMM-Plus was convened in Hanoi, Viet Nam, on 12 October 2010.
The ADMM-Plus currently focuses on seven areas of practical cooperation, namely maritime security, counterterrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster management, peacekeeping operations, military medicine, humanitarian mine action and cyber security. Experts Working Groups (EWGs) have been established to facilitate cooperation in these areas. CA46. Urban-Rural and Gender divide observed in access to School Education Link: http://rchiips.org/NFHS/NFHS-5_FCTS/NFHS- 5%20State%20Factsheet%20Compendium_Phase-I.pdf The phase-1 results of NFHS-5 were recently released. Among others, the survey report provides data on literacy rates and the proportion of the population with 10 or more years of schooling. For both these indicators, a large gender, as well as the urban-rural divide, is observed. Here is a detailed analysis. In this story, we take a look at a few of the key observations regarding literacy & formal education from the NFHS-5.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 98
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Kerala has the highest percentage of Literate men and women This latest survey includes estimates of literates among men & women. According to the who can read a whole sentence or a part of a sentence. survey guidelines, this indicator refers to those ‘who completed standard 9 or higher and a. The survey is conducted among the respondents aged between 15-49 years. As per the estimates of the survey, among the 22 States/UTs, Kerala has the highest percentage of the population who are identified as literate with 98.2% & 98.3% of men & women respectively.
b. Bihar, Andhra Pradesh & Telangana are among the states with a comparably lower proportion of literates among both Men & Women. c. In Bihar, it is estimated that 78.5% of Men are literate while it is only 57.8% among women i.e., a difference of 20.7%.
d. Similarly, Telangana has a lower level of literacy among women with only 66.6%, around 18% less than that among the male population.
e. All of the north-eastern states perform well on the literacy levels for both men & women with Assam being the least performer 84.3% of Men & 77.2% of women being literate. –
Apart from men and women, there is also urban and rural gap:
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 99
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Apart from the difference in the literacy rates among men & women, there is also a large divide between the Urban & Rural population. The difference is more prominent in the case of women. a. The lower literacy rates among women are mainly because of much lower literacy among rural women. b. Bihar, which has a lower women literacy rate, the situation is better in urban areas with 75% of women being literate while it is only 54.5% in rural areas. c. Even in Telangana, the literacy among urban women is 81%, compared to just 58.1% in the rural areas. d. Gujarat & Andhra Pradesh are other states where the literacy among women in rural areas is much lower than that among urban women. Significant improvement in the proportion of Men & Women with 10 or more years of Schooling
a. Apart from literacy, another related indicator in NFHS-5 is the estimate regarding the proportion of the population who have more than 10 years of schooling. This indicates access to minimal formal education. b. With the exception of men in Andhra Pradesh among the larger States, there has been an increase in the proportion of the population with 10 or more years of
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 100
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
schooling during NFHS-5 compared to that of NFHS-4 across all the states and among both men & women. c. As per NFHS-5, it is estimated that on average, around 55% of men have more than 10 years of schooling compared to around 50% during NFHS-4. d. There is an improvement even among women, from around 41% to nearly 47% on average among these 22 States/UTs. Conclusion: With more than 85% of the population estimated to be literate, India does seem to be doing well on this indicator. However, when formal education i.e., those with 10 or more years of schooling is taken into consideration, it is only around about 51% as per phase-1 results of NFHS-5, an improvement of 5% compared to NFHS-4. From a gender perspective, it is 57% and 50% among men and women population respectively, with the rate for women being much lower for rural women. While improvement in literacy rate is a good sign, such an improvement also has to be aimed for in those completing a minimum of 10 years of schooling, especially in rural areas and among women. CA47. Diversity of food culture prevalent in the Indus Valley Civilization Link: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/study-of-lipid-residue-reveals- cattle-buffalo-meat-in-indus-valley-vessels/article33292289.ece
cember 2020 presents someA recent important study published findings ofin thethe diversityJournal of of Archaeological food culture prevalent Science titled in the ‘Lipid Indus residues Valley in Civilisation.pottery from the Indus Civilisation in northwest India’ on 9th De In this article, we will briefly look at the history of the Indus Valley Civilisation and the salient features of this study. Details of study methodology
ceramic lipid residue analysis” as it provides a powerful means by which the foodways of populations can be examined. It has been used in a range of archaeologicalThe study deploys contexts “ around the world to extract and identify foodstuff within ancient vessels. Organic residue analysis also provides a new understanding of vessel specialization and use. Until recently, only a single pottery sherd from South Asia had been studied via lipid residue analysis. More recently, a study investigated ceramic lipid residues from 59 vessels from a single site in Gujarat.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 101
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The current paper presents the results of a much larger corpus of ceramic lipid residues across multiple Indus Civilisation sites in northwest India to investigate broader patterns of food consumption and vessel use. Details of the study sites In this study, organic residues in pottery from one city, one town, and five rural settlements in northwest India are investigated to characterize any possible similarities or differences in foodstuffs used in vessels by urban and rural populations in a single region.
The analysis was conducted on 172 pottery fragments recovered from rural and urban settlements. Findings of Study: Diversity and variations in crops a. There is clear evidence of the diversity of plant products and regional variation in cropping practices.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 102
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
b. The overall lipid profiles of vessel fragments from all sites suggest the presence of degraded animal fats such as dairy or carcass fats. c. Indus vessels also show association with dairy processing. d. Lipid profiles suggest the consistent use of animal products and the compound- specific isotopic results suggest the multi-functionality of vessels. e. A broad similarity in products is observed across both rural and urban sites, possibly indicating a degree of regional culinary unity. f. Use of perforated vessels
CA48. Miyawaki Method of Afforestation Link: https://www.newindianexpress.com/good-news/2020/dec/05/once-a-garbage- dump-bengalurus-hennagara-lake-to-get-new-lease-of-life-with-miyawaki-forest- 2232220.html
Bengaluru Hennagara Lake is to get a new life with Miyawaki Forests.
Very brief about Miyawaki Forests:
The Miyawaki forestation method is a unique way to create an urban forest and is pioneered by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 103
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
With this method of plantation, an urban forest can grow within a short span of 20-30 years while a conventional forest takes around 200-300 years to grow naturally. In the Miyawaki technique, various native species of plants are planted close to each other so that the greens receive sunlight only from the top and grow upwards than sideways. As a result, the plantation becomes approximately 30 times denser, grows 10 times faster and becomes maintenance-free after a span of 3 years.
CA49. Delimitation Commission. What is mention in Constitution about Delimitation?
Article 82 of Indian Constitution provides for delimitation and it says: Upon the completion of each census, the allocation of seats in the House of the people to the States and the division of each State into territorial constituencies shall be readjusted by such authority and in such manner as Parliament may by law determine.
Delimitation Commission:
As per Article 82, Parliament by law enacted a Delimitation Act after every census. Once the Act comes into force, the Central Government constitutes a Delimitation Commission.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 104
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Therefore, Delimitation Commission have been constituted four times since independence:
a. In 1952 under Delimitation Commission Act, 1952
b. In 1963 under Delimitation Commission Act, 1962 c. In 1973 under Delimitation Commission Act, 1972 d. In 2002 under Delimitation Commission Act, 2002
What is the composition of the Delimitation Commission?
CA50. Formulation of policy on 3D printing Link: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/govt-readies-3d-printing-policy-local-firms- global-market-7101493/
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) will soon come up with a policy aimed at promoting 3D printing on an industrial scale in view of its emerging market.
Objectives: a. Help develop a conducive ecosystem for design, development and deployment of 3D printing and additive manufacturing. b. Help domestic companies to overcome technical and economic barriers so that they can build supportive and ancillary facilities for world leaders in the technology, such as the USA and China.
3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a method of creating a three- dimensional object layer-by-layer using a computer created design.
3D printing is an additive process whereby layers of material are built up to create a 3D part. This is the opposite of subtractive manufacturing processes, where a final design is
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 105
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1 cut from a larger block of material. As a result, 3D printing creates less material wastage.
3D printing technology increasingly used for the mass customization, production of any types of open-source designs in the field of agriculture, in healthcare, automotive industry, locomotive industry and aviation industries.
The USA remains the global leader in 3D printing, with more than 35% market share. In Asia, about 50% of its market is cornered by China, followed by Japan at 30%, and South Korea at 10%.
Challenges:
a. Lack of Standards: Since 3D printing is a very niche and new domain, there are no global qualifications and certification norms. b. Hesitation in Adoption: Another challenge is to convince the industry and ministries to push for its adoption in their respective sectors as any new technology, which is not understood easily, faces a tough time. c. High Costing: Although actual printing is cheap, parts to build a 3D printer are very expensive as the equipment and manufacturing costs are very high. In addition, there is a concern about warranty hence, resource companies are hesitant to put 3D-printed parts into their machines if they are not covered for damage in case the parts fail. d. Sector Specific Challenges: Globally and even in India, the largest consumer of 3D printing is the automotive industry and right now it is going through a lot of changes like the introduction of BS-VI and electric vehicles. New vehicle design development has slowed and so has the demand for 3D printing.
CA51. Electoral Bonds News is: CIC says revealing names of donors not in public interest, violates RTI
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 106
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
During the latest 14th Phase, electoral bonds were purchased in 9 different cities. Among them, the greatest purchase both in terms of number as well as the value was in Mumbai.
–
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 107
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
We will see few details of Electoral Bonds: The electoral bond scheme, which was notified by the Ministry of Finance, Department of Economic Affairs in 2018, allows citizens and corporates to buy monetary instruments from the SBI and donate them to a political party, which is then free to redeem it for money. Electoral Bond is a bearer Banking Instrument to be used for funding eligible Political Parties.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 108
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
CA52. 23rd Meeting of Financial Stability and Development Council
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 109
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
We will learn about Financial Stability and Development Council.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 110
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 111
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Working Groups/Technical Groups under FSDC Sub-Committee: Just remember the names. a. Inter Regulatory Technical Group (IR-TG) b. Technical Group on Financial Inclusion and Financial Literacy (TGFIFL) c. Inter Regulatory Forum for monitoring Financial Conglomerates (IRF-FC) d. Macro Financial Monitoring Group (MFMG) e. Crisis Prevention and Monitoring Framework (CPMF)
CA53. New Ramsar site designated in Bihar You might have covered this news before, but today once again it appeared in news. So, see again. A brief introduction to site from RAMSAR Portal. The wetland is situated in Begusarai district in the state of Bihar.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 112
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The Convention on Wetlands is the only international legal treaty with a primary focus on wetlands, signed in 1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar and known as the Ramsar Convention. It came into force in 1975 and to date 170 countries have joined as Contracting Parties.
The wise use framework developed by the Convention provides a mechanism for ensuring that wetlands are incorporated into the global agenda for sustainable development, supporting initiatives relating to biodiversity, climate change, disaster risk reduction and land degradation.
The Convention defines wetlands areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including areasrather of marine broadly water as “ the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six metres”.
Another key Ramsar concept is the ecological character of wetlands ation of the ecosystem components, processes and benefits/ services that characterize a wetland : “the combin at a given point in time”
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 113
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
The secretariat: It is based at the headquarters of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in Gland, Switzerland. Montreux Record
The Montreux Record is a register of wetland sites on the List of Wetlands of international importance where changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring, or are likely to occur as a result of technological developments, pollution or other human interference and therefore in need of priority conservation attention.
It is maintained as part of the Ramsar List.
TWO MONTREUX RECORD SITES IN INDIA
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 114
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Loktak Lake (Manipur): Due to deforestation in the catchment area, infestation of water hyacinth and pollution. The construction of a hydroelectric power plant has caused the local extinction of several native fish species.
Keoladeo National Park: Water shortage and unbalanced grazing regime around it. The invasive growth of the grass and reducing its suitability for certain water-bird species, notably the Siberian Crane.
CA54. Sustainable Mountain Development Summit (SMDS) The ninth edition of the Sustainable Mountain Development Summit (SMDS) commenced on December 12 in Dehradun. This year, the summit was held under the following theme Theme: Emerging Pathways for Building Resilient Post COVID-19 Mountain Economy, Adoption, Innovation and Acceleration.
Sustainable Mountain Development Summit is Integrated Mountain Initiative (IMI)’s annual flagship event where we bring mountain concerns at the regional and national level as a part of our sustained effort to highlight priorities of Indian Himalayan Region in the development discourse of our country. Integrated Mountain Initiative (IMI) is a civil society led network platform with the mission to mainstream concerns of the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) and its people in the development dialogue of India.
It functions as a platform to integrate the knowledge and experiences of multiple stakeholders working across the IHR, and uses this to inform and influence policy at the national and state level.
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 115
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
Mountain Ecosystems in India and their significance Himalayas are the major mountain ecosystem in India. Himalayas is one of the thirty-six world biodiversity hotspots. The report International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development says that the region encompassing Hindu Kush Himalayas holds more than 240 million people. It also says that more than 1.9 billion people depend on the Hindukush it stores more snow and ice as compared to any other region in the world. Above all, more thanHimalayan 25% of region world for population food, water are and directly energy. or indirectlyThe region dependent is also called on Hindukush“The Third Pole” as Himalayan region. Therefore, it is essential to conserve these mountains.
CA55. What is ‘the great conjunction’? Saturn and Jupiter have appeared fairly close together in our sky throughout the year. But on December 21, Saturn and Jupiter will appear so close together that some folks may have a difficult time seeing them as two objects.
s at the same time in the same field of view, which is really If you have a pair of binoculars, you’ll easily be able to spot both planets. In even a small telescope, you’d see both planet unheard of. That’sto see themwhat makeson Monday, this conjunction December 21. so rare. Jupiter and Saturn appear to meet up about every 20 years. Most of the time, however, they’re not nearly as close together as Forwe’re a comparison,going there was a great conjunction back in 2000, but the two planets were separated by about two full-Moon widths. This year, the orbits will bring them to where they appear to be about one-fifth of a full-Moon diameter. this is going to be a once-in-a-lifetime event for many people. The next time they will get this close together in our sky won’t be for another 60 years, so GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 116
DECEMBER CURRENT AFFAIRS PART 1
GOALTIDE IAS ACADEMY 117