4. Delimitation of Constituencies in India - A Crossroads in Electoral Democracy

• In four years, India's electoral democracy faces a critical juncture as the delimitation of constituencies, based on the next decennial Census population figures, is scheduled for 2026.
• With a significantly increased population, it is essential to ensure that the number of Members of Parliament (MPs) representing the Lok Sabha (currently 543) is adjusted accordingly.
• A higher population per constituency diminishes the impact of each voter on parliamentary representation, which is an undesirable situation. The Indian Constitution recognizes this and provides for periodic Census-linked rearrangement of constituencies.
• The principle is straightforward - more people should result in more MPs to maintain fair and tenable representation in Parliament.
• However, in practice, a population-based delimitation of constituencies, as outlined in Article 82 of the Constitution, could give more MPs to states and union territories with population growth and fewer MPs to those that have controlled their population growth.
• Realizing this potential anomaly, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi introduced a delimitation freeze through the 42nd Amendment of the Constitution in 1976. This freeze was later extended by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee through the 84th Amendment.
• The extension of the delimitation freeze is set to end in 2026, posing a crucial decision point for India's electoral democracy.
• The upcoming delimitation exercise based on Census data aims to rectify the imbalances and ensure a more equitable distribution of MPs.
• The delimitation process plays a vital role in upholding democratic principles and ensuring fair political representation for the growing population of India.

5. Issues with scheduled delimitation exercise in India

• Political Implications: Delimitation has significant political implications as it can impact the distribution of power and representation among political parties. Changes in constituency boundaries can influence the electoral prospects of political candidates and parties, potentially leading to shifts in political dynamics.
• Regional Disparities: Delimitation based on population figures may result in giving more Members of Parliament (MPs) to states and union territories that have experienced population growth while reducing the representation of those regions that have controlled their population growth. This could lead to imbalances and perceived unfairness in parliamentary representation.
• Socio-political Factors: Delimitation exercises can be influenced by socio-political factors such as linguistic, cultural, or regional identities. These factors can sometimes lead to demands for the creation of new states or changes in constituency boundaries based on specific interests or aspirations, which can be contentious.
• Data Accuracy and Manipulation: Accurate population data is crucial for a fair delimitation exercise. Challenges may arise if there are concerns about the accuracy of the population figures or if there are attempts to manipulate the data for political gain.
• Implementation Challenges: The delimitation process itself can be complex and time-consuming. It requires extensive consultations, analysis, and decision-making to determine the new boundaries and ensure compliance with legal and constitutional requirements.

 6. The alternatives proposed for addressing the complexities of the delimitation process

• One option is to implement another freeze, but this time, not for a specific period. The freeze would remain in effect until all states in India achieve population stabilization.
• This would mean maintaining the current constituency boundaries until population growth becomes more balanced across all states.
• The second alternative suggests seeking the expertise of demographic and statistical experts to develop a mathematical model similar to the "Cambridge Compromise" used for apportioning seats in the European Parliament.
• This model would need to be customized to suit India's specific needs, taking into account the complexities of the Indian demographic situation.

For Prelims: Census, Article 82, Delimitation Commission, Chief Election Commissioner, Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), Members of Parliament (MP), Lok sabha, and Rajya Sabha. For Mains: 1. Analyze the major challenges and complexities associated with the delimitation of states in India. Discuss the potential political, social, and administrative implications of redrawing state boundaries. (250 words).

 

 

Previous year Questions 1. With reference to the Delimitation Commission, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2012) 1. The orders of the Delimitation Commission cannot be challenged in a Court of Law. 2. When the orders of the Delimitation Commission are laid before the Lok Sabha or State Legislative Assembly, they cannot effect any modifications in the orders. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2 Answer: C   2. According to the Delimitation Commission of India and subject to Article 333 of the Constitution of India, what is the maximum number of members that a State legislative Assembly may have? (UPSC CAPF 2020) A. 450 B. 500 C. 550 D. 600 Answer: B

Source: The Hindu

 

 

LAUNCH VEHICLE MARK-III

1. Context 

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully integrated the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft with the Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM3) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

2. About LVM3

• LVM3 is India's heaviest rocket, boasting a gross lift-off weight of 640 tonnes, an overall length of 43.5 meters, and a 5-meter diameter payload fairing.
• It can carry up to 8 tonnes of payload to the lower Earth orbit (LEO), approximately 200 km from the Earth's surface.
• However, its payload capacity reduces to around 4 tonnes for geostationary transfer orbits (GTO) located much farther at approximately 35,000 km from Earth.

Image Source: Research Gate

3. Integration of Chandrayaan-3 with LVM3

• Chandrayaan-3, comprising a lander, rover, and propulsion module, has been integrated with the LVM3 launch vehicle.
• This integration is necessary as the spacecraft cannot travel to space independently.
• Rockets like LVM3 provide the powerful propulsion systems required to lift heavy objects, such as satellites, overcoming Earth's gravitational pull.

4. LVM3's Strengths

• Although LVM3's payload capacity may seem lower compared to rockets used by other countries or space agencies, it remains a robust launch vehicle.
• For instance, the European Space Agency's Ariane 5 rocket has a lift-off mass of 780 tonnes, carrying 20 tonnes to LEO and 10 tonnes to GTO.
• LVM3 made its maiden journey into space in 2014 and previously launched the Chandrayaan-2 mission in 2019.
• Notably, it successfully deployed 36 OneWeb satellites in March 2023, showcasing its ability to deliver multiple satellites into space.

5. Components of LVM3

• LVM3 is a three-stage launch vehicle, consisting of two solid boosters (S200), a core liquid fuel-based stage (L110), and a cryogenic upper stage (C25).
• The rocket operates in a staged manner, with different sections burning their respective fuels to power the vehicle.
• Once the fuel is depleted, these stages separate and fall off, with only a small part of the rocket reaching the intended destination, carrying the satellite.

6. Flight Sequence

• During launch, the S200 boosters ignite simultaneously, followed by the ignition of the L110 core stage at around 113 seconds.
• The S200 motors burn for approximately 134 seconds before separation occurs at 137 seconds.
• The payload fairing separates at an altitude of 115 km and around 217 seconds into the flight.
• At 313 seconds, the L110 stage burns out and separates, and the C25 stage ignites.
• Finally, at a nominal time of 974 seconds, the spacecraft is injected into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) with dimensions of 180×36000 km.

7. Conclusion

• With the integration of Chandrayaan-3 and LVM3, India is making significant progress in its lunar exploration efforts.
• The upcoming launch will provide an opportunity for India to successfully land a spacecraft on the Moon, expanding its contributions to space exploration and research.

 

For Prelims: Chandrayaan-3, LVM3, ISRO, Moon, Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit, Satish Dhawan Space Centre, lower Earth orbit, European Space Agency,  Ariane 5 rocket, Chandrayaan-2 mission, OneWeb satellites,  For Mains:  1. Discuss the implications of Chandrayaan-3 for India's position in the global space industry and its aspirations for lunar exploration. (250 Words)

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1. What will be India's second moon mission by ISRO? (Maharashtra Talathi 2019) A. Chandrayaan 1       B. Chandrayaan 1.A     C.  Chandrayaan 2        D.  Chandrayaan 3   Answer: C   2. In the context of space technology, what is "Bhuvan", recently in the news? (UPSC 2010)  A. A mini satellite, launched by ISRO for promoting the distance educa­tion in India B. The name given to the next Moon Impact Probe, for Chandrayan-II C. A geoportal of ISRO with 3 D imaging capabilities of India D. A space telescope developed by India   Answer: C   3. ISRO is related to: (SSC JE EE 2020)  A. space research        B. agricultural research       C.  seed research        D. marine research   Answer: A   4. The phases of the moon as we see from the Earth are due to changing relative positions of the sun, the earth and the moon. Which of the following statements is true. (CTET 2022) A. on a full moon day, the earth comes between the sun and the moon B. on a new moon day, the moon is in between the earth and the sun C. on a full moon day, the moon is in between the Earth and the sun D. on a new moon day, the earth is between the sun and the moon E. on a new moon day, the sun is between the moon and the earth 1. A, B                    2. B, C                    3.  C, D               4. A, E          Answer:1   5. Satellites used for telecommunication relay are kept in a geostationary orbit. A satellite is said to be on such an orbit when: (UPSC 2011) 1. The orbit is geosynchronous. 2. The orbit is circular. 3. The orbit lies in the plane of the Earth's equator. 4. The orbit is at an altitude of 22,236 km. Select the correct answer using the codes given below: A. 1, 2 and 3 only           B. 1, 3 and 4 only         C. 2 and 4 only           D. 1, 2, 3 and 4   Answer: A   6. Satish Dhawan Space Centre is located at (MP Police Constable 2017)  A. Thiruvananthapuram          B. Sriharikota         C. Narendrapuri       D. Mahendragiri   Answer: B   7. Sriharikota, where Satish Dhawan Space Centre is located, is situated next to which lake? (Haryana Civil Services 2021)  A. Chilika          B.  Pulicat          C. Vembanad          D. Kolar   Answer: B   8. A low earth orbit satellite can provide large signal strength at an earth station because: (ESE 2011) A. Path loss is low B. These orbits are immune to noise C. Large solar power can be generated at these orbits D. Lower microwave frequencies in s-band can be used   Answer: A   9. Chandrayaan - 2 was launched from which of the following states by ISRO? (DSSSB LDC  2019)  A. Maharashtra       B. Rajasthan          C. Kerala          D. Andhra Pradesh   Answer: D

 

 Source: The Indian Express

 

 

ZAPORIZHZHIA NUCLEAR PLANT

 

1. Context

There are renewed concerns over the safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, the largest in Europe, which was seized by Russian troops early in the war. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday (July 5, 2023) said the Russians have placed what appear to be explosives on the roofs of several power units at the plant, perhaps intending to fake an attack and blame Ukraine for it.

2. Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant

• The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) is a major nuclear power facility located in Enerhodar, Ukraine.
• It is situated on the banks of the Dnieper River, approximately 200 kilometers southeast of Kyiv. The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is not only the largest nuclear power plant in Ukraine but also the largest in Europe and one of the largest in the world.
• Construction of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant began in the late 1970s, and its first reactor was commissioned in 1984.
• The plant currently operates six pressurized water reactors (VVER-1000), each with a capacity of around 1,000 megawatts (MW).
• The total installed capacity of the ZNPP is approximately 6,000 MW, accounting for a significant portion of Ukraine's electricity generation.

Image Source: The Indian Express

3. Importance of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant

• The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant plays a crucial role in Ukraine's energy sector, providing a substantial portion of the country's electricity needs. Nuclear power is a key component of Ukraine's energy mix, contributing to energy security and reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.
• The ZNPP has been a reliable source of low-carbon electricity, helping to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and address environmental concerns.
• Safety is a top priority at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. Stringent safety measures and protocols are implemented to ensure the safe operation of the reactors and minimize the risk of accidents.
• The plant adheres to international safety standards and undergoes regular inspections and assessments by the Ukrainian Nuclear Regulatory Authority and international organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
• The ZNPP has contributed significantly to the local economy by providing employment opportunities in the region and supporting various industries and services.
• The plant has its own infrastructure and facilities, including housing, schools, and medical centers, to cater to the needs of its employees and their families.
• The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant plays a crucial role in Ukraine's energy landscape, providing a substantial share of the country's electricity generation while maintaining a strong focus on safety and environmental responsibility.
• It continues to be an important asset in Ukraine's energy diversification efforts and the overall development of its energy sector.

4. War situation around the plant

• August 2022: Sporadic fighting escalated dangerously with increased shelling and mortar attacks blamed on both armies.
• Buildings inside the Zaporizhzhia nuclear complex were hit, but no significant damage was reported, and radiation levels remained stable.
• Mid-August: External power supply to the complex was disrupted due to the fighting, forcing the station to rely on emergency generators temporarily.
• Ukrainian President Zelenskyy raised concerns about a potential nuclear disaster, stating that Russia was technically ready to provoke a radiation release at the station.
• Ukraine's military intelligence directorate reported that the Kremlin had approved a plan to blow up the power station, leading to nuclear disaster response drills in the area.
• Currently, there is no major fighting around Zaporizhzhia, but concerns about the safety of the nuclear plant persist.

5. What was Chornobyl Disaster?

• The Chornobyl accident in 1986 was the result of a flawed reactor design that was operated with inadequately trained personnel.
• The resulting steam explosion and fires released at least 5% of the radioactive reactor core into the environment, with the deposition of radioactive materials in many parts of Europe.
• The disaster was a unique event and the only accident in the history of commercial nuclear power where radiation-related fatalities occurred.
• Two Chornobyl plant workers died due to the explosion on the night of the accident, and a further 28 people died within a few weeks as a result of acute radiation syndrome.
• Some 350,000 people were evacuated as a result of the accident, but resettlement of areas from which people were relocated is ongoing.

6. What is a pressurized water reactor?

• It is a type of light water reactor that uses ordinary water as the moderator and coolant.
• The PWR plant is the most common type of nuclear power reactor in the world. Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) are fuelled by Natural Uranium while Light Water Reactors (LWRs) are fuelled by Low Enriched Uranium.
• A PWR has two water systems: One is called the reactor (primary) system which retrieves heat generated in the reactor, and the other is called the turbine (secondary) system which produces electric power with steam generated by that heat.

For Prelims: Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs), Light Water Reactors (LWRs), Chornobyl accident. For Mains:1. To what extent are operational nuclear installations vulnerable during military conflicts? Discuss with reference the situation surrounding the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and the potential risks involved. (250 words).

 

Previous year Question 1. The function of heavy water in a nuclear reactor is to (UPSC 2011) A. Slow down the speed of neutrons B. Increase the speed of neutrons C. Cool down the reactor D. Stop the nuclear reaction Answer: A 2. To meet its rapidly growing energy demand, some opine that India should pursue research and development on thorium as the future fuel of nuclear energy. In this context, what advantage, does thorium hold over uranium? (UPSC 2012) Thorium is far more abundant in nature than uranium. On the basis of the per unit mass of mined mineral, thorium can generate more energy compared to natural uranium. Thorium produces less harmful waste compared to uranium. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: D 3. In India, why are some nuclear reactors kept under “IAEA safeguards” while others are not? (UPSC 2020) A. Some use uranium and others use thorium B. Some use imported uranium and others use domestic supplies C. Some are operated by foreign enterprises and others are operated by domestic enterprises D. Some are State-owned and others are privately owned Answer: B

Source: The Indian Express

 

 

INTERNATIONALISATION OF RUPEE

1. Context

India aims to position the rupee as a global currency, recognizing its potential in international trade and finance. The Reserve Bank of India's inter-departmental group (IDG) proposes a roadmap towards rupee internationalisation, driven by India's economic growth and the need for alternatives to the US dollar amidst geopolitical tensions.

2. Understanding Internationalisation

• Internationalisation entails increasing the use of the rupee in cross-border transactions, beginning with import-export trade, followed by current account transactions, and ultimately capital account transactions.
• Achieving currency internationalisation requires an open currency settlement system, a robust swap and forex market, and the eventual full convertibility of the rupee on the capital account.

3. The Relevance and Challenges

• The US dollar's dominance as a global reserve currency grants it significant advantages, known as the "Exorbitant Privilege."
• To challenge this dominance, China's renminbi has emerged as a potential competitor.
• However, the renminbi's success will depend on policies, resilience, integrity, transparency, and stability demonstrated by both the US and Chinese economies.

4. Addressing Concerns

• In light of recent sanctions imposed on Russia and the growing desire for alternatives to the US dollar, countries like China and Russia have raised concerns over their dependence on the dollar and the SWIFT messaging system.
• India, too, seeks alternatives to mitigate potential risks and reduce reliance on dominant currencies.

5. Advantages of Rupee Internationalisation

• International use of the rupee mitigates currency risk for Indian businesses, reducing costs and promoting growth.
• By reducing the need for foreign exchange reserves, India becomes less vulnerable to external shocks.
• The rupee's prominence enhances the bargaining power of Indian businesses, elevating India's global stature and respect.

6. Recommended Measures

Short-term measures include adopting a standardised approach for trade invoicing and settlement in rupees, encouraging rupee accounts for non-residents, and integrating payment systems for cross-border transactions. Strengthening the financial market, recalibrating the foreign portfolio investor regime, and establishing a 24x5 global rupee market are also proposed.

Medium-term measures span two to five years and involve reviewing taxes on masala bonds, exploring international use of Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) for trade transactions, and considering the inclusion of Indian Government Bonds in global bond indices.

Long-term measures entail efforts to include the rupee in the International Monetary Fund's Special Drawing Rights (SDR), an international reserve asset based on a basket of major currencies.

7. The Way Forward

• The internationalisation of the rupee is a strategic objective for India, offering benefits such as reduced currency risk, enhanced global presence, and increased economic stability.
• Through a systematic roadmap encompassing short, medium, and long-term measures, India aims to establish the rupee as a globally recognised currency, providing an alternative to existing dominant currencies.

For Prelims: Special Drawing Rights, global currency, Reserve Bank of India, inter-departmental group, SWIFT messaging system, International Monetary Fund,  For Mains:  1. Explain the concept of rupee internationalization and its relevance in the global currency system. Discuss the challenges India faces in making the rupee a global currency. (250 Words)

 

Source: The Indian Express

 

 

AMBERGRIS

 

Context

Days after the carcass of a sperm whale washed up on a shore of the Canary Island of La Palma, a pathologist, who carried out the animal’s postmortem, found ambergris, also known as ‘floating gold’, stuck in its colon, The Guardian reported recently. The lump retrieved from the sperm whale is estimated to be worth about €500,000 (Rs 4,47,62,500).

What is Ambergris?

• Ambergris is a substance produced in the digestive systems of sperm whales.
• It is formed as a result of a natural defense mechanism of the whales when they consume certain materials, such as squid beaks or other hard objects, that cannot be easily digested.
• The whale's digestive enzymes transform these indigestible materials into a waxy and solid substance known as ambergris.
• Ambergris has a unique and distinctive aroma, often described as earthy, musky, and slightly sweet.
• Over time, as it is exposed to sunlight and the elements, ambergris undergoes a chemical transformation that enhances its fragrance and develops a pleasant scent.

Image Source: Quora

Why is it so expensive?

• Historically, ambergris has been highly prized and used in various industries, particularly in the production of luxury perfumes and fragrances.
• It is valued for its ability to enhance and prolong the scent of perfumes, acting as a fixative and adding depth and complexity to fragrances.
• It's rarity and unique properties have made it one of the most expensive and sought-after natural substances in the world.
• It is worth noting that the use of ambergris in perfumes has raised ethical concerns in recent times.
• As ambergris is derived from sperm whales, an endangered species, the international trade in raw ambergris is regulated under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
• Many perfumers now use synthetic alternatives or plant-based materials to replicate the scent of ambergris, reducing the demand for the natural substance and helping to protect whale populations.

International Trade and Legal Restrictions

• Ban in Some Countries: Countries like the USA, Australia, and India have imposed a ban on the possession and trade of ambergris due to its association with protected species.
• Protected Species: Sperm whales, the source of ambergris, are protected under Schedule 2 of the Wildlife Protection Act in India.
• Illegal in India: Possession or trade of ambergris and its by-products is illegal in India under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
• Trade Restrictions: Several countries allow the trade of ambergris but with limitations and regulations in place.
• Smuggling Gangs: Gangs involved in ambergris smuggling obtain it from coastal areas and transport it through countries with less stringent sea trade regulations to reach destination countries.
• Comparative Stringency: India's regulations on sea trade are comparatively less stringent, making it a potential transit route for smuggling.

For Prelims: Ambergris, Canary Island of La Palma, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), and Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Source: The Indian Express