There are two types of body waves. They are called P and S-waves.

5. Measuring of Earthquakes

DEEPFAKES

1. Context

2. What are Deepfakes

• Deepfake is a type of synthetic media in which a person in an already-existing video or image is replaced with another person. It manipulates the audio/video, which has the propensity to the device, using machine learning and artificial intelligence.
• Due to the ease with which bogus news, celebrity pornographic content, etc. get shared online, it has drawn attention.
• It makes a fake version of original or real audio-visual content by superimposing a new audio or image over an existing media file.
• In September 2019, the AI company Deeptrance discovered 15,000 deep fakes videos online-nearly tripling in just nine months. A starting 96% of them were pornographic, and 99% of them matched the faces of famous women to porn actors.
• Deepfakes can be used to damage reputation, fabricate evidence, defraud the public, and undermine trust in democratic institutions.
• All this can be achieved with fewer resources, with scale and speed, and even microtargeted to galvanize support.

• Deepfake content is created by using two competing AI algorithms- one is called the generator and the other is called the discriminator.
• The discriminator is tasked with determining if the fake multimedia content produced by the generator is real and manufactured.
• A generative adversarial network is created when the generator and discriminator work together (GAN). Every time the discriminator correctly recognizes the content as being fake, it gives the generator important insights into how to make the next deep fakes better.
• The first step in establishing a GAN is to identify the desired output and create a training dataset for the generator.
• Video clips can be supplied to the discriminator after the generator starts producing output at a level that is acceptable.

• The first case of malicious use of deep fake was detected in pornography. According to sensity.ai, 96% of deepfakes are pornographic videos, with over 135 million views on pornographic websites alone. Deepfake pornography exclusively targets women.
• Pornographic deepfakes can threaten, intimidate, and inflict psychological harm. It reduces women to sexual objects causing emotional distress, and in some cases, leading to financial loss and collateral consequences like job loss.
• Deepfake could act as a powerful tool by a malicious nation-state to undermine public safety and create uncertainty and chaos in the target country. Deepfake can undermine trust in institutions and diplomacy.

• Deepfake causes financial fraud, which poses problems for the entire financial system.
• In the era of the threat of fake news, it also poses a threat to the security of cyber systems and the validity of online registration.
• Deepfakes in phishing efforts would make it more challenging for people to recognize a hoax.
• In any nation, deep fakes can be used to sabotage democratic procedures like elections.
• The potential for harm to people, organizations, and societies is enormous since it can be used to generate phony pornographic videos and make politicians appear to say things they did not.
• Any genuine evidence of a crime can be easily discounted as false because the public is so distrustful due to the prevalence of deep fakes.
• Fake movies are likely to become more popular outside the world of celebrities as new technology enables unskilled people to create deep fakes with just a few images. This will feed the growth of revenge porn.
• The use of fake identities and impostor frauds in cybercrime is rising.

6. What is the Solution?

• Media literacy efforts must be enhanced to cultivate a discerning public. Media literacy for consumers is the most effective tool to combat disinformation and deep fakes.
• We also need meaningful regulations with a collaborative discussion with the technology industry, Civil society, and policymakers to develop legislative solutions to disincentivize the creation and distribution of malicious deepfakes.
• Social media platforms are taking cognizance of the deepfake issue, and almost all of them have some policy or acceptable terms of use for deepfakes.
• We also need easy-to-use and accessible technology solutions to detect deepfakes, authenticate media, and amplify authoritative sources.

For Prelims & Mains

For Prelims: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Deepfake Technology,  and AI algorithms. For Mains: 1. What are deepfakes and explain the challenges with deep-fake technology in the present technological world.

 

Source: The Hindu

PERSONALITY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION (PII)

1. Context

Recently, a revelation by Resecurity, an American cybersecurity firm, disclosed that personally identifiable information (PII) of 815 million Indian citizens, encompassing Aadhaar numbers and passport details, was available for purchase on the dark web. Threat actors were ready to sell this data for $80,000, marking a significant breach of sensitive information.

2. About Personally Identifiable Information (PII)

• PII is information that can be used to identify an individual. This can include things like your name, address, phone number, email address, Social Security number, and passport number.
• PII can also include information that is not directly identifiable, but can be used to identify you when combined with other information. For example, your IP address, your browser type, and your browsing history can all be used to identify you.
• PII comprises information that, when combined, can identify an individual. In this case, it included Aadhaar numbers, unique 12-digit identification numbers issued by the UIDAI on behalf of the Indian government. Another threat actor named "Lucius" claimed access to a more extensive array of PII, including voter IDs and driving license records.
• The threat actors declined to specify how they gained access to the data, hindering the identification of the data leak's source. "Lucius" claimed access to a 1.8 terabyte data leak from an unnamed "India internal law enforcement agency." However, the authenticity of this claim remains unverified.

3. Government Response and Investigation

• India's junior IT minister, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, confirmed the Computer Emergency Response Team's investigation into the alleged data leak.
• The government is undergoing the arduous task of moving vast amounts of data, including legacy records, to secure storage. However, the actual size and confirmation of the alleged leak were not provided.
• While the government denies prior biometric data leaks from Aadhaar, Chandrasekhar highlighted the ongoing transition towards a more secure data management system.
• However, instances of significant leaks, such as farmer data from the PM Kisan website appearing on the dark web, have raised concerns about data security.

4. Threats Arising from Leaked Information

• The continuous leakage of Aadhaar IDs and their appearance on underground cybercriminal forums pose risks of digital identity theft.
• With India ranking high in malware detection, there's an increased threat of cyber-enabled financial crimes, tax frauds, and online banking theft.
• Users are advised to ascertain if their information was part of the leaked data. Caution is urged in handling emails from unknown sources to avoid phishing campaigns.
• Changing user IDs and passwords, implementing two-factor authentication, and reporting suspicious online activities to authorities are recommended measures to safeguard personal information.

5. Conclusion

The Aadhaar data leak is a serious security breach that could have a devastating impact on millions of Indian citizens. It is important for individuals to take steps to protect their PII and for the government to continue to improve the security of its databases.

For Prelims: Aadhaar, Personally Identifiable Information, cybersecurity,  For Mains:  1. Discuss the challenges faced by the Indian government in managing and securing the vast amount of PII collected through various government schemes and initiatives. (250 Words)

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2018) 1. Aadhaar card can be used as a proof of citizenship or domicile. 2. Once issued, the Aadhaar number cannot be deactivated or omitted by the Issuing Authority. 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   2. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2020) 1. Aadhaar metadata cannot be stored for more than three months. 2. State cannot enter into any contract with private corporations for sharing of Aadhaar data. 3. Aadhaar is mandatory for obtaining insurance products. 4. Aadhaar is mandatory for getting benefits funded out of the Consolidated Fund of India. Which of the statements given above is / are correct?  A. 1 and 4 only         B.  2 and 4 only         C. 3 only             D. 1, 2 and 3 only   Answer: B

 

Source: The Hindu

COMPOSITE WATER MANAGEMENT INDEX

 

1. Context

 

Niti Aayog, the government’s think tank, is learnt to have marked the reports on states progress on water management for 2018-19 and 2019-20 for “internal use” after having publicly released the previous editions.

 

2. About Composite Water Management Index

The Composite Water Management Index (CWMI) is a tool developed by NITI Aayog, the government of India's think tank, to assess and improve the performance of states and Union Territories (UTs) in the efficient management of water resources. The index is based on 28 indicators covering various aspects of water management, including groundwater, restoration of water bodies, irrigation, farm practices, drinking water, policy, and governance.

Key Takeaways

• India is facing a severe water crisis, with nearly 600 million people facing high to extreme water stress.
• The CWMI is an important tool to assess and improve the performance of states and UTs in water management.
• Gujarat was ranked number one in the CWMI for 2016-17, followed by Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.
• Jharkhand, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar were the worst-performing states in the CWMI.

Problems with Water Management in India

India faces a number of challenges in managing its water resources effectively. These include:

• India's population is growing rapidly, putting increasing pressure on water resources.
• Climate change is leading to more erratic rainfall patterns, which is making it more difficult to manage water resources effectively.
•  Pollution is contaminating water sources, making it difficult to access safe drinking water.
• Overuse of groundwater is leading to depletion of groundwater resources.
• Inefficient irrigation practices are wasting water.

Per capita water availability is a measure of the amount of water available per person in a given area. India's per capita water availability is declining due to population growth. In 2021, India's per capita water availability was 1,511 cubic meters per year, which is below the global average of 5,000 cubic meters per year.

The National Water Policy, 2002, is a comprehensive framework for the development and management of water resources in India. The policy aims to ensure that water is used sustainably and equitably. The policy also emphasizes the need for public participation in water management.

3. Projections for Worsening Crisis

• The CWMI report indicates that the water crisis is expected to worsen. By 2030, India's water demand is predicted to be twice the available supply, potentially leading to severe water scarcity and a substantial 6% loss in the country's GDP. The report serves as a stark warning for the future.
• Data presented in the report ranks India at 120th out of 122 countries in terms of water quality index. With nearly 70% of the water being contaminated, it highlights the dire need for addressing water quality issues and improving access to safe water sources.
• The report emphasizes that approximately 600 million Indians face high to extreme water stress, leading to the annual deaths of around two lakh people due to inadequate access to safe water. This situation underscores the urgency of a more profound understanding of water resources and their usage.
• Gujarat was recognized as the top state in efficient water resource management, as per the CWMI report for the reference year 2016-17. Following Gujarat, states like Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra were ranked for their water management efforts.
• The report also highlights regional variations in water resource management. In the Northeastern and Himalayan states, Tripura secured the top position, with Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Assam following suit. These rankings reveal diverse approaches to water management in different regions.

4. The Significance of CWMI

• The government has emphasized the importance of the Composite Water Management Index (CWMI) as a tool to assess and enhance the performance of states and Union territories in managing water resources. The CWMI comprises nine sectors and 28 indicators, covering aspects such as groundwater, water body restoration, irrigation, farm practices, drinking water, and policy and governance.
• According to the report, Jharkhand, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar were identified as the worst-performing states in water management, underlining the need for improved strategies and resource management.
• Minister for Water Resources, Nitin Gadkari, highlighted the link between effective water management and agricultural performance. He expressed his intention to hold a meeting with the Delhi Chief Minister to address water management and air pollution issues in the national capital.

5. Conclusion

The CWMI report underscores the severity of India's water crisis, the need for comprehensive water resource management, and the regional variations in water management performance. It serves as a call to action to address these critical challenges.

 

For Prelims:Current events of national and international importance, water crisis, urbanisation, comprehensive water resource management, For Mains:  1. Enumerate the key challenges associated with urbanization in India, including issues related to water crisis? (250 Words)

 

 

Previous Year Questions 1. What are the benefits of implementing the ‘Integrated Watershed Development Programme’? (2014) Prevention of soil runoff Linking the country’s perennial rivers with seasonal rivers Rainwater harvesting and recharge of groundwater table Regeneration of natural vegetation Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only         (b) 2, 3 and 4 only            (c) 1, 3 and 4 only          (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Answer: C 2. On the planet earth, most of the freshwater exists as ice caps and glaciers. Out of the remaining freshwater, the largest proportion (2013) (a) is found in atmosphere as moisture and clouds (b) is found in freshwater lakes and rivers (c) exists as groundwater (d) exists as soil moisture Answer: C Mains 1. Enumerate the National Water Policy of India. Taking river Ganges as an example, discuss the strategies which may be adopted for river water pollution control and management. What are the legal provisions of management and handling of hazardous wastes in India? (UPSC 2013) 2. “The ideal solution of depleting ground water resources in India is water harvesting system”. How can it be made effective in urban areas? (UPSC 2018) 3. What is water stress? How and why does it differ regionally in India? (UPSC 2019)

 

 Source: The Indian Express

INTERCONTINENTAL BALLISTIC MISSILE

 

 

1. Context

The Russian military  reported a successful test launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile designed to carry nuclear warheads from a new nuclear submarine

The report comes as tensions are soaring between Russia and the West over the fighting in Ukraine

 

2. What is an Intercontinental ballistic missile?

• An intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) is a long-range missile system designed to deliver nuclear or conventional warheads over very long distances. These missiles are capable of traveling thousands of kilometers, typically between continents, hence the term "intercontinental."
• ICBMs are one of the key components of a country's strategic nuclear arsenal and serve as a deterrent against potential adversaries. They are designed to be launched from land-based silos, mobile platforms, or submarines and can travel at high speeds, often reaching hypersonic velocities during their flight trajectory.
• The basic components of an ICBM system include the missile itself, the launch platform, and a guidance system to ensure precise targeting.
• Once launched, the missile follows a ballistic trajectory, which means it travels into space, then reenters the Earth's atmosphere to reach its target. The accuracy and reliability of ICBMs are of paramount importance in their role as a deterrent.
• ICBMs have been a significant part of the nuclear arms race during the Cold War, with the United States and the Soviet Union (and later Russia) developing extensive arsenals of these missiles. Other countries, such as China, France, and the United Kingdom, have also developed their own ICBMs.
• The possession of ICBMs provides a nation with the capability to strike targets on the other side of the globe, making them a critical element in the calculus of international security and arms control.

3. Which countries have intercontinental ballistic missile?

Some of the countries known to have ICBMs include:

United States: The United States operates a variety of ICBMs, including the Minuteman III, which is a land-based ICBM, and the Trident II D5, which is a sea-launched ICBM.

Russia: Russia's Strategic Rocket Forces operate a range of ICBMs, including the RS-24 Yars, RS-12M Topol, and RS-28 Sarmat (nicknamed Satan 2).

China: China has developed and deployed ICBMs such as the DF-5, DF-31, and DF-41.

France: France has the M51 SLBM (Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile) as part of its nuclear deterrent.

United Kingdom: The United Kingdom's nuclear deterrent is based on the Trident II D5 SLBM.

India: India's Agni-V is considered an ICBM, with the ability to reach intercontinental distances.

Pakistan: Pakistan has developed the Shaheen-III missile, which is capable of reaching intercontinental distances.

North Korea: North Korea has claimed to possess ICBMs, with the Hwasong-15 being one of their most advanced and longest-range missiles.

Israel: Israel has not officially confirmed the possession of ICBMs, but it is widely believed to have developed such capabilities as part of its nuclear deterrent.

4.Imperator Alexander III

The Imperator Alexander III belongs to the Borei-class of nuclear submarines. Currently, there are three new Borei-class submarines in active service. These submarines play a central role in Russia's nuclear capabilities at sea.

Specifications:

• Length: 397 feet (121 meters)
• Beam: 76 feet 1 inch (23.19 meters)
• Draft: Approximately 29 feet 2 inches (8.9 meters) when fully loaded
• Displacement: 14,181 long tons (approximately 14,409 metric tons)
• Armament: The submarine is equipped with 16 Bulava missiles.
• Missile Range: These missiles have a range of up to 8,000 kilometers.
• Missile Length: Each Bulava missile is 12 meters (approximately 40 feet) long

5. Way forward

International treaties and agreements, such as the New START Treaty and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), play a role in limiting the proliferation of ICBMs and other nuclear weapons.

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1.Consider the following statements : (UPSC CSE 2023) 1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight. 2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile. 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)

 

 

Source: indianexpress

INDIA-BHUTAN

1. Context

India and Bhutan, in a recent high-level meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bhutan's 5th King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, have committed to advancing their partnership in several key areas.

2. Historical Ties between India and Bhutan

India and Bhutan have a long and close history of diplomatic and economic ties, characterized by cooperation and mutual respect. Their relations can be traced back to ancient times when they had cultural and economic interactions. 

• The modern era of India-Bhutan relations formally began with the signing of the Treaty of Friendship between India and Bhutan in 1949. This treaty laid the foundation for diplomatic, economic, and security cooperation. It also affirmed Bhutan's sovereignty while recognizing India's role in guiding its foreign policy.
•  India has played a crucial role in ensuring Bhutan's security. During the border dispute between Bhutan and China in 2017, India supported Bhutan's stance, reinforcing their security cooperation.
• India has been a major source of economic aid and development assistance for Bhutan. Various Indian projects in Bhutan have focused on infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and other sectors, contributing to Bhutan's socio-economic progress.
• One of the significant areas of economic collaboration has been hydropower. India has been involved in the development of several hydropower projects in Bhutan, providing a source of revenue for the Bhutanese economy. These projects have also enhanced regional energy security.

3. Economic Ties and Road Connectivity

• The discussions involved plans for improved connectivity between the two nations, especially focusing on border areas and immigration posts to support Bhutan’s initiative for a smart city at Gelephu, situated on the border between Bhutan and Assam. This development aims to fortify ties and foster regional growth.
• India's approval for the final survey on a 58 km cross-border rail link between Gelephu and Kokrajhar in Assam marks a significant step. Additionally, both nations have agreed to explore an 18 km rail link between Samtse in Bhutan and Banarhat in West Bengal, fostering greater trade opportunities. Furthermore, the agreement to extend Bhutanese trade items to Chilahati in Bangladesh from Haldibari in West Bengal indicates a broader regional trade expansion strategy.
• India’s commitment to supporting Bhutan’s socio-economic development in line with Bhutanese government priorities was reaffirmed by Prime Minister Modi. This includes support for Bhutan's 13th Five-Year Plan and the Bhutanese King's vision for a Special Economic Zone in the Sarpang district, which includes plans for an international airport at Gelephu.
• Acknowledging India's support for Bhutan's 12th Five-Year Plan, the Bhutanese King expressed gratitude, while India reiterated its commitment to assist in the upcoming 13th Five-Year Plan. The joint statement highlighted the importance of their strong bilateral ties and mutual support in various developmental efforts.
• The decision to transform the Darranga-Samdrup Jongkhar border crossing into an immigration check post is aimed at enhancing connectivity, tourism, and facilitating entry for third country nationals. Upgrading the land customs station at Dadgiri in Assam to an Integrated Check Post (ICP) and developing facilities in Gelephu on the Bhutanese side will further support the Bhutanese Special Economic Zone project, boosting trade and connectivity.
• These joint initiatives are expected to ease travel between India and Bhutan, foster increased trade with Bangladesh, and bolster tourism revenues for Bhutan, particularly important in the wake of economic challenges resulting from the pandemic. Bhutan's initiatives, led by the King, intend to create more job opportunities and enhance tourism in the country.

4. Conclusion

The recent discussions and agreements between India and Bhutan focus on improving connectivity, trade, and tourism, as well as addressing economic challenges in Bhutan through infrastructure development and international cooperation.

For Prelims: India-Bhutan, Treaty of Friendship between India and Bhutan in 1949,  For Mains:  1. Discuss the prospects and challenges of the economic and infrastructure collaborations between the India-Bhutan. (250 Words)

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1. When was the Indo-Bhutan Treaty of Peace and Friendship signed ? (UPRVUNL AE EE 2021) A. 1949        B. 1953                      C. 1951           D. 1950   Answer: A

 

Source: The Hindu