ANTHROPOCENE
1. Context
Recently, Scientists designated a small body of water near Toronto, Canada as ground-zero for the Anthropocene, the proposed geological epoch defined by humanity's massive and destabilising impact on the planet.
2. About Anthropocene
- The Anthropocene is a proposed geological epoch that began when human activities started to have a significant impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems.
- The term was coined in the 1980s by atmospheric chemist Paul J. Crutzen and diatom researcher Eugene F. Stoermer, and it has been gaining increasing acceptance among scientists in recent years.
3. The debate over Anthropocene
- There is no single agreed-upon date for the beginning of the Anthropocene, but some possible starting points include the Industrial Revolution, the widespread use of fossil fuels, or the nuclear age.
- The Anthropocene is characterized by several human-caused changes to the Earth system, including climate change, ocean acidification, deforestation, and the extinction of species.
- The Anthropocene is a controversial topic, and there is still much debate about its definition and whether it should be formally recognized as a geological epoch.
- However, there is no doubt that human activities are having a profound impact on the Earth system, and the Anthropocene is a useful way to conceptualize this impact.
Image Source: France24.com4. Characteristics of the Anthropocene
Global climate change: The Earth's average temperature has increased by about 1 degree Celsius since the Industrial Revolution, and this warming is largely due to human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels.
Ocean acidification: The oceans are absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, and this is causing the oceans to become more acidic. This acidification is harming marine life, and it is also making it more difficult for the oceans to absorb carbon dioxide.
Deforestation: Humans have cleared forests for agriculture, development, and other purposes. This deforestation is releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and it is also destroying habitats for plants and animals.
Extinction of species: Human activities are causing the extinction of species at an unprecedented rate. This is due to habitat loss, pollution, and overhunting.
5. Implications of the Anthropocene
- The Anthropocene has several implications for the future of the planet.
- These include climate change, extinctions, and changes in the global food system.
- It is important to understand the Anthropocene to mitigate its effects and build a more sustainable future.
6. Reconceptualizing the Anthropocene
- To address the challenges of the Anthropocene, we need to reconceptualize the way we think about the relationship between humans and the Earth.
- We need to move away from the idea that humans are separate from nature, and towards the idea that we are part of a complex and interconnected system.
7. The Way Forward
- The Anthropocene is a complex and challenging issue, but it is also an opportunity for humans to take responsibility for our impact on the planet.
- By working together, we can reduce our emissions, protect our forests, and conserve biodiversity.
- We can also invest in new technologies that will help us to live more sustainably.
- The future of the Anthropocene is uncertain, but it is up to us to decide what kind of future we want
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For Prelims: Anthropocene, Biodiversity, Climate change, ocean acidification, deforestation,
For Mains:
1. Discuss the political implications of the Anthropocene and the need for reimagining our relationship with the Earth in the context of the proposed geological epoch. (250 Words)
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Source: Down to Earth
PULSES
1. Context
According to the Union Agriculture Ministry, the total area sown under pulses in the current Kharif season from June till July 9, at 46.32 lakh hectares (lh), was 17.9% lower than the 56.43 lh during the corresponding period of last year. The acreage declines have been particularly sharp for Maharashtra (9.46 lh to 3.83 lh) and Karnataka (12.97 lh to 6.02 lh), while less in Madhya Pradesh (9.53 lh to 8.61 lh), Uttar Pradesh (3.69 lh to 2.70 lh) and Telangana (1.11 lh to 0.80 lh). On the other hand, the progressive coverage in Rajasthan, at 22.38 lh, has been higher compared with 16.82 lh for the same period of 2022.
2. Pulses in India
Pulses, also known as lentils or legumes, are an essential part of the Indian diet. India is one of the largest producers and consumers of pulses in the world. Pulses are a rich source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a staple food in many Indian households.
There are several varieties of pulses cultivated and consumed in India, including:
- Chickpeas (Chana): Chickpeas are one of the most widely consumed pulses in India. They are used to make dishes like chana masala, hummus, and falafel.
- Red Lentils (Masoor Dal): Red lentils are commonly used in Indian cuisine and are known for their quick cooking time. They are used to make dals, soups, and stews.
- Pigeon Peas (Toor Dal): Pigeon peas are a popular variety of pulses in India. Toor dal is a commonly cooked lentil dish made from these peas.
- Split Bengal Gram (Chana Dal): Chana dal is made from split Bengal gram and is commonly used in Indian curries, snacks, and sweets.
- Green Gram (Moong Dal): Green gram is another widely consumed pulse in India. Moong dal is a popular dish made from green gram and is used in both savory and sweet recipes.
- Black Gram (Urad Dal): Black gram is used to make urad dal, which is commonly used in South Indian cuisine to prepare dishes like dosa, idli, and vada.
- Kidney Beans (Rajma): Kidney beans are commonly used in North Indian cuisine to make dishes like rajma curry.
3. Impact of less rainfall
- Pulse production in India has been affected by below-average rainfall during the monsoon season.
- Maharashtra has experienced a rainfall shortfall of 23%, Karnataka 26.2%, and Telangana 30.9%.
- Rajasthan, however, has recorded a rainfall surplus of 155.4% during the same period.
- The reduction in pulse cultivation is particularly evident in arhar or tur (pigeon-pea) acreage, which has decreased by almost half.
- North Karnataka, Marathwada, and Vidarbha, known for arhar cultivation, have witnessed significant rainfall deficiencies.
- Urad (black gram) acreage has not seen a significant decline, while moong (green gram) acreage has actually increased.
- Rajasthan has contributed to the increased moong acreage, with higher cultivation in the state.
- Madhya Pradesh, the largest urad producer, has experienced only a marginal dip in acreage.
- Overall, the shortfall in pulse cultivation is a result of varying rainfall patterns across different regions in India.
4. Pulses Cultivation Challenges
- Crop Duration: Moong and urad are short-duration crops, ready for harvesting within 65-75 days after sowing during the kharif season.
- Arhar (pigeon-pea) Growth Cycle: Arhar takes 150-180 days to grow and is harvested in December-January, unlike moong and urad, which are harvested in September.
- Inter-cropping with Arhar: Arhar is commonly inter-cropped with soybean, cotton, and even moong and urad.
- Inter-cropping Process: Farmers typically sow arhar and soybean together after mid-June, coinciding with the onset of the monsoon. Soybean is harvested in 90-100 days (by end-September/early October), while arhar arrives in the market only after mid-December.
- Market Prices: Arhar is trading at high prices in Latur, India's largest wholesale market for pulses, currently priced at Rs 9,500-10,000 per quintal, exceeding the government-declared minimum support price (MSP) of Rs 7,000.
5. Challenges in Arhar Cultivation and Sowing Deadline
- Arhar is predominantly a rain-fed crop, with only 8% of its total area under irrigation.
- In Maharashtra, irrigation covers less than 2% of the arhar cultivation area, while in Karnataka, it covers about 12.5%.
- Arhar's long duration of 5-6 months requires sufficient rainfall, especially during germination, vegetative growth, flowering, and pod formation stages.
- Experts suggest that farmers should sow arhar only after receiving around 100 mm of rainfall, ensuring adequate soil moisture for initial growth.
- The Mahatma Phule Agricultural University recommends a cut-off date of July 10-12 for arhar sowing, with a maximum extension until July 30. Sowing after this period leads to reduced vegetative growth and increased vulnerability to pests and diseases, potentially decreasing yields by 10% or more.
- Farmers are inter-cropping arhar with other crops like soybean and cotton to optimize land utilization.
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For Prelims: Pulses, Inter-cropping Process, Mahatma Phule Agricultural University, Minimum Support Price.
For Mains: 1. Examine the challenges and opportunities in pulse cultivation in India, and discuss the measures to enhance production and address the issues faced by farmers. (250 words).
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Previous Year Question1. With reference to pulse production in India, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2020)
1. Black gram can be cultivated as both kharif and rabi crops.
2. Green gram alone accounts for nearly half of the pulse production.
3. In the last three decades, while the production of Kharif pulses has increased, the production of rabi pulses had decreased.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 2 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
2. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2020)
1. In the case of all cereals, pulses, and oil seeds, the procurement at Minimum Support Price (MSP) is unlimited in any State/UT of India.
2. In the case of cereals and pulses, the MSP is fixed in any State/UT at a level to which the market price will never rise.
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: D
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Source: The Indian Express
ARTICLE 105
1. Context
Protesting against the expunction of parts of his speech on the motion of thanks on the President’s Address, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has argued that MPs have freedom of speech, and that he did not make any personal allegations in the House.
In his letter to Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar on Thursday (February 9), Kharge cited Article 105 of the Constitution that deals with the privileges and powers of parliamentarians.
2. About Article 105
Article 105 of the Constitution deals with “powers, privileges, etc of the Houses of Parliament and of the members and committees thereof”, and has four clauses
It reads:
(1) Subject to the provisions of this Constitution and to the rules and standing orders regulating the procedure of Parliament, there shall be freedom of speech in Parliament.
(2) No member of Parliament shall be liable to any proceedings in any court in respect of any thing said or any vote given by him in Parliament or any committee thereof, and no person shall be so liable in respect of the publication by or under the authority of either House of Parliament of any report, paper, votes or proceedings.
(3) In other respects, the powers, privileges and immunities of each House of Parliament, and of the members and the committees of each House, shall be such as may from time to time be defined by Parliament by law, and, until so defined, shall be those of that House and of its members and committees immediately before the coming into force of section 15 of the Constitution (Forty-fourth Amendment) Act, 1978.
(4) The provisions of clauses (1), (2) and (3) shall apply in relation to persons who by virtue of this Constitution have the right to speak in, and otherwise to take part in the proceedings of, a House of Parliament or any committee thereof as they apply in relation to members of Parliament.
Members of Parliament are exempted from any legal action for any statement made or act done in the course of their duties. For example, a defamation suit cannot be filed for a statement made in the House
This immunity extends to certain non-members as well, such as the Attorney General for India or a Minister who may not be a member but speaks in the House. In cases where a Member oversteps or exceeds the contours of admissible free speech, the Speaker or the House itself will deal with it, as opposed to the court.
3. Restrictions on Privileges
Article 121 of the Constitution prohibits any discussion in Parliament regarding the “conduct of any Judge of the Supreme Court or of a High Court in the discharge of his duties except upon a motion for presenting an address to the President praying for the removal of the Judge..”
4.History of Previliges
- The Government of India Act, 1935 first brought this provision to India, with references to the powers and privileges enjoyed by the House of Commons in Britain.
- An initial draft of the Constitution too contained the reference to the House of Commons, but it was subsequently dropped.
- However, unlike India where the Constitution is paramount, Britain follows Parliamentary supremacy.
- The privileges of the House of Commons is based in common law, developed over centuries through precedents.
- In the 17th-century case ‘R vs Elliot, Holles and Valentine’, Sir John Elliot, a member of the House of Commons was arrested for seditious words spoken in a debate and for violence against the Speaker.
- However, the House of Lords provided immunity to Sir John, saying that words spoken in Parliament should only be judged therein
- This privilege has also been enshrined in the Bill of Rights 1689, by which the Parliament of England definitively established the principle of a constitutional monarchy.
- In the 1884 case of ‘Bradlaugh v. Gosset’, then Chief Justice Lord Coleridge of the House of Lords observed: “What is said or done within the walls of Parliament cannot be inquired into in a court of law.”
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For Prelims: Sedition, Article 105, Government of India Act, 1935
For Mains: 1.Analyze some landmark cases related to sedition in India and their impact on the interpretation of the law.
2.Critically evaluate the arguments for and against retaining the sedition law in India. |
Source: indianexpress
MONSOONS
1. Context
The arrival and evolution of the monsoon in India have always been highly anticipated.
This year's monsoon has been unique, with a delayed onset and unusual distribution of rainfall. Understanding the factors influencing the monsoon and its implications in a changing climate is crucial.
2. About Monsoon in India
- Monsoon in India is a significant weather phenomenon that brings relief from the scorching summer heat and plays a crucial role in the country's agriculture and economy.
- It is characterized by a seasonal reversal of wind patterns and the arrival of heavy rainfall over the Indian subcontinent.
- The Indian monsoon season typically lasts from June to September, divided into two phases: the Southwest Monsoon and the Northeast Monsoon.
- The Southwest Monsoon is the primary monsoon season and is responsible for the majority of India's rainfall.
- It occurs when moisture-laden winds from the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea sweep across the subcontinent.
3. Delayed Onset and Unusual Evolution
- The monsoon's onset was delayed this year due to interactions between typhoons and cyclones, particularly Cyclone Biparjoy.
- This delay postponed the arrival of the monsoon in Mumbai by nearly two weeks. Interestingly, for the first time in over half a century, the monsoon arrived simultaneously in Mumbai and Delhi, resulting in an exaggerated curvature of the monsoon trough over northwest India.
4. Patchy Distribution of Rainfall
- Although the deficit caused by the delayed onset has been largely compensated, the distribution of rainfall remains patchy.
- Excess rainfall has been observed in the northern Western Ghats and northwest India, while deficits are seen in a horseshoe pattern from Uttar Pradesh to Odisha and extending into Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
- Some areas in Himachal Pradesh experienced extreme heat alongside heavy rainfall.
Image Source: Down to Earth5. Factors that influence the monsoons in India
5.1. Differential Heating
- The differential heating of land and water is a significant factor in the formation of monsoons.
- During summer, the landmass in India heats up more quickly than the surrounding oceans, creating a low-pressure area.
- This low pressure attracts moisture-laden winds from the Indian Ocean, resulting in the southwest monsoon.
5.2. Himalayan Mountain Range
- The presence of the Himalayas plays a crucial role in influencing monsoons.
- The mountains act as a barrier, forcing the moist winds to rise and cool.
- As a result, the moisture condenses and leads to heavy rainfall on the windward side (southern slopes) of the Himalayas.
5.3. El Nino and La Nina
- El Nino and La Nina are part of a natural climate cycle in the Pacific Ocean that can affect monsoons in India.
- El Nino refers to the warming of the central and eastern equatorial Pacific, which can disrupt monsoon patterns and reduce rainfall in India.
- Conversely, La Nina, characterized by the cooling of the same region, can enhance the monsoon and lead to increased rainfall.
5.4. Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)
- The Indian Ocean Dipole is another climate phenomenon that can influence monsoons.
- It refers to the temperature difference between the eastern and western parts of the Indian Ocean.
- Positive IOD conditions (warmer waters in the east) are associated with stronger monsoons, while negative IOD conditions (warmer waters in the west) can weaken the monsoons.
5.5. Land and Sea Breezes
- The differential heating of land and water also leads to the formation of local land and sea breezes.
- During the day, the land heats up faster than the ocean, resulting in a low-pressure area over the land.
- This draws in cool sea breezes from the nearby ocean, bringing some relief from the heat.
- At night, the land cools faster, creating a high-pressure area, and leading to land breezes.
6. Conclusion
- The monsoon is a vital natural phenomenon that shapes the lives and livelihoods of millions of people.
- Its arrival brings relief from the scorching heat of summer, replenishes water resources, and sustains agricultural activities.
- While the monsoon presents challenges, it also offers opportunities for economic growth, cultural celebrations, and the beauty of lush green landscapes.
- Understanding and managing the monsoon are crucial for ensuring the well-being and resilience of societies in monsoon-affected regions.
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For Prelims: Monsoon, the Southwest Monsoon, the Northeast Monsoon, Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea, typhoons, cyclones, Cyclone Biparjoy, Himalayas, El Nino, La Nina, Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean Dipole, sea breezes
For Mains:
1. Why was rainfall this pre-monsoon season above normal? Is global warming the only factor influencing the unpredictable monsoon? Comment (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions 1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2012)
1. The duration of the monsoon decreases from southern India to northern India.
2. The amount of annual rainfall in the northern plains of India decreases from east to west. 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. With reference to 'Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)' sometimes mentioned in the news while forecasting Indian monsoon which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2017)
1. IOD phenomenon is characterised by a difference in sea surface temperature between tropical Western Indian Ocean and tropical Eastern Pacific Ocean.
2. An IOD phenomenon can influence an EI Nino's impact on the monsoon.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B
3. With reference to Ocean Mean Temperature (OMT), which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2020)
1. OMT is measured up to a depth of 26°C isotherm which is 129 meters in the south-western Indian Ocean during January-March.
2. OMT collected during January-March can be used in assessing whether the amount of rainfall in monsoon will be less or more than a certain long-term mean.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B
4. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2019)
Sea Bordering country
1. Adriatic Sea Albania
2. Black Sea Croatia
3. Caspian Kazakhstan
4. Mediterranean Sea Morocco
5. Red Sea Syria
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
A. 1, 2 and 4 only B. 1, 3 and 4 only C. 2 and 5 only D. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Answer: B
5. Which city is the 'Queen Arabian Sea'? (MPSC 2013)
A. Mumbai B. Cochin C. Porbandar D. Panambur
Answer: B
6. Match List - I with List - II and select the correct answer from the codes given below the lists: (UPSC CAPF 2015)
List - I (Tropical Cyclone) List – II (Location)
A. Cyclones 1. USA
B. Hurricanes 2. East Asia
C. Typhoons 3. Australia
D. Willy-willies 4. India
1. A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
2. A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3
3. A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
4. A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4
Answer: 2
7. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2020)
1. Jet streams occur in the Northern Hemisphere only.
2. Only some cyclones develop an eye.
3. The temperature inside the eye of a cyclone is nearly 10°C lesser than that of the surroundings.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 2 only D. 1 and 3 only
Answer: C
8. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017)
1. In India, the Himalayas are spread over five States only.
2. Western Ghats are spread over five States only.
3. Pulicat Lake is spread over two States only.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 3 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1 and 3 only
Answer: B
9. Land and sea breeze are caused due to _____________ (SSC GD 2019)
A. convection B. acclimatisation C. radiation D. conduction
Answer: A
10. The sea breeze blows during (BSSC CGL 2011)
A. day from land to sea B. day from sea to land
C. night from land to sea D. night from sea to land
Answer: B
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Source: The Hindu
TELANGANA EUNUCHS ACT
1. Context
The Telangana High Court recently struck down the Telangana Eunuchs Act of 1919, terming it “unconstitutional” and an intrusion into the private sphere of transgender people, “as well as an assault on their dignity”. A Bench of Chief Justice Ujjal Bhuyan and Justice CV Bhaskar Reddy said that the Act violated the transgender community’s right to equality (under Article 14 of the Constitution) and their right to privacy and dignity (under Article 21).
2. Telangana Eunuchs Act (1919)
The Telangana Eunuchs Act, 1329 F., was a law in the Indian state of Telangana that criminalized transgender people and forced them to register with the authorities. The Act was passed in 1919, and it was struck down by the Telangana High Court in 2022.
The Act defined "eunuch" as "all persons of the male sex who admit to be impotent or who clearly appear to be impotent on medical inspection." It required all eunuchs to register with the authorities, and it imposed penalties on eunuchs who were found in female clothing, who were found in the company of a boy under the age of 16, or who were suspected of kidnapping or emasculating boys.
The Act was challenged in court by Vyjayanthi Vasanta Mogli, a transgender rights activist. The court found that the Act was discriminatory and violated the human rights of transgender people. The court also found that the Act was outdated and no longer relevant in the 21st century.
The striking down of the Telangana Eunuchs Act was a major victory for the transgender community in India. It was a recognition that transgender people are entitled to the same rights and protections as everyone else. The Act's repeal is a step towards a more inclusive and just society for transgender people in India.
Here are some of the key provisions of the Telangana Eunuchs Act:
- All eunuchs were required to register with the authorities.
- Eunuchs were prohibited from dressing in female clothing.
- Eunuchs were prohibited from being in the company of a boy under the age of 16.
- Eunuchs were prohibited from kidnapping or emasculating boys.
- Eunuchs who violated the Act could be imprisoned for up to two years or fined.
The Telangana Eunuchs Act was a discriminatory and outdated law that violated the human rights of transgender people. Its repeal is a major victory for the transgender community in India.
2. Telangana Eunuchs Act PILs
- Three PILs Heard: The Telangana High Court heard three related PILs collectively and issued a common ruling on July 6.
- Suspension of Arrests: The High Court ordered that no arrests or prosecutions would be carried out under the Telangana Eunuchs Act while admitting the first PIL.
- Formulation of Comprehensive Policy: The second petition sought directions to the Telangana Government to formulate a comprehensive policy safeguarding transgender rights, including provisions for education and employment reservations. It also aimed to establish Transgender Welfare Boards.
- Relief during Covid-19: The third PIL requested relief for transgender individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic, including access to rations and healthcare facilities. It also sought the extension of benefits from the state's Aasara Scheme, which provides a monthly pension to vulnerable sections of society, transgender individuals.
- Aasara Scheme: The Aasara Scheme, launched in 2014, offers a monthly pension to vulnerable groups, and the amount was revised to Rs 2,016 in 2019.
- Focus on Transgender Rights: The PILs aimed to address the discriminatory aspects of the Telangana Eunuchs Act, secure transgender rights through policy formulation, and provide necessary relief during the pandemic.
5. Telangana Government's Stance
- The Telangana government argued that the 2019 Act enacted by the Central government was the first statutory enactment for the welfare of the transgender community. However, it contended that the Act did not address specific offenses attributed to them, such as kidnapping, emasculating boys, or committing unnatural offenses.
- The government claimed that the Telangana Eunuchs Act under challenge governed and addressed the offenses mentioned above, filling the gap left by the 2019 Act.
- The government sought the dismissal of the plea, asserting that the 2019 Act addressed discrimination against the transgender community adequately.
- The Telangana High Court, comprising Chief Justice Bhuyan and Justice Reddy, struck down the Telangana Eunuchs Act, stating that it violated Article 14 (right to equality) and Article 21 (right to protection of life and personal liberty).
- The court observed that the Act's definition of eunuch contradicted the definition of transgender persons under the Transgender Persons Act of 2019 and the interpretation given by the Supreme Court.
- The court found similarities between the Telangana Eunuchs Act and Part II of the Criminal Tribes Act, of 1871, which criminalized certain tribal groups. Both laws required the maintenance of a register with details of eunuchs or tribal groups.
- While the British-era Criminal Tribes Act was frequently amended and eventually revoked, the Telangana law remained unchanged.
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For Prelims: Telangana Eunuchs Act of 1919, Transgender people, Article 14 (right to equality), Article 21 (right to protection of life and personal liberty), Section 377, Public Interest Litigation (PIL), National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).
For Mains: 1. Discuss the recent Telangana High Court rulings on transgender rights, highlighting the directives related to pension provision, reservation, and the establishment of a State Welfare Board. (250 words).
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