H5N1
1. Context
2. Avian Influenza
- Avian Influenza, also known as Avian or Bird Flu, is a form of influenza caused by a virus found in birds.
- Avian Flu is similar to variants found in animals and humans – caused strains of influenza that have adapted to specific hosts.
3. Avian Influenza Type A viruses
- Type A viruses are classified based on two proteins on their surfaces – Hemagglutinin (HA) and Neuraminidase (NA). There are about 18 HA subtypes and 11 NA subtypes.
- Several combinations of these two proteins are possible e.g., H5N1, H7N2, H9N6, H17N10, H18N11, etc.
- All known subtypes of influenza A viruses can infect birds, except subtypes H17N10 and H18N11, which have only been found in bats.
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4. Effect on Birds
- Although avian influenza has different subtypes, H5N1 is a highly pathogenic subtype that causes mortality in birds.
- Since 2022, the virus has infected over 100 million birds across the globe, resulting in the deaths of over 50 million and the culling of millions of poultry.
- Unlike previous outbreaks of highly pathogenic subtypes of avian influenza, H5N1 is heavily impacting wild bird species, including many which were on the verge of extinction.
- While it is difficult to ascertain how many wild birds have been affected by the virus, a significant impact has been seen in eagles, pelicans, geese, waterfowl, gulls, falcons, and shorebirds, in addition to the highest possible impact on poultry seen till date, at least in the U.S.
- The impact of H5N1 on wild bird populations has varied depending on several factors, such as the level of exposure, geographical locations, and migratory patterns of the affected species.
- High mortality in wild birds due to the virus could lead to significant ecological consequences, including the vulnerability of predators and alterations in species composition in affected ecosystems, and therefore a possible impact on biodiversity not just limited to avian species.
- It has raised concerns regarding the spread of the virus among critically endangered avian populations.
5. Spreading to animals
- The highly contagious H5N1 virus can also occasionally spill over from birds to animals through direct or indirect contact with infected birds or their droppings.
- Worryingly, there have been several reports on the spillover of H5N1 to mammals during the current outbreak from different countries, infecting species such as sea lions, minks, foxes, wild bears, and skunks, apart from domestic animals such as dogs and cats.
- In 2023 alone, H5N1 caused the deaths of over 3,000 sea lions in Peru. In a recent yet to be peer reviewed study, scientists found that the virus could efficiently spread between ferrets in the laboratory.
- The only known cases of the virus spreading between mammals were reported in minks that were raised in close confinement on a farm in Spain.
- The transmission of H5N1 from birds to mammals is rare, but when it does occur, it can be a cause for concern, as the virus could accumulate mutations and acquire the ability to potentially initiate human outbreaks.
- H5N1 has a high mortality rate of over 60% in humans and is primarily transmitted to humans through close contact with infected birds or animals, either through handling infected poultry or exposure to contaminated environments.
6. Enhanced Measures
- As the current H5N1 outbreak continues unabated with devastating impact on the avian population globally, and with significant ecological and economic consequences, the time has never been better to initiate efforts for preparedness towards building better, more efficient vaccines for avians and humans.
- Genomic surveillance should be done to map the continued evolution of the virus.
- Moreover, enhanced biosecurity measures are required to protect both animal and public health.
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For Prelims: Avian influenza H5N1, Bird Flu, Hemagglutinin (HA) and Neuraminidase (NA), influenza A viruses, Genomic surveillance, Pathogens, and Viruses.
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Previous year Questions
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1. H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to which one of the following diseases? (UPSC 2015) A. AIDS Answer: D 2. Consider the following statements : (UPSC 2010) 1. Every individual in the population is an equally susceptible host for Swine Flu. 2. Antibiotics have no role in the primary treatment of Swine Flu. 3. To prevent the future spread of Swine Flu in the epidemic area, the swine (pigs) must all be culled. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: A 3. Which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2013) 1. Viruses lack enzymes necessary for the generation of energy. 2. Viruses can be cultured in any synthetic medium. 3. Viruses are transmitted from one organism to another by biological vectors only. Select the correct answer using the codes given below. A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: A |
GINI COEFFICIENT
-
Order the Population:
- Sort the population by income or wealth from the poorest to the richest.
-
Plot the Lorenz Curve:
- On the x-axis, plot the cumulative percentage of the population.
- On the y-axis, plot the cumulative percentage of income or wealth.
- The Lorenz curve typically starts at (0,0) and ends at (100,100).
-
Calculate the Area Under the Lorenz Curve:
- The area under the Lorenz curve is denoted as A.
-
Calculate the Area Under the Line of Perfect Equality:
- The line of perfect equality (where everyone has the same income) is a 45-degree line from (0,0) to (100,100).
- The area under this line is denoted as A + B, where B is the area between the Lorenz curve and the line of perfect equality.
-
Compute the Gini Coefficient:
- The Gini coefficient is calculated as the ratio of the area between the line of perfect equality and the Lorenz curve (B) to the total area under the line of perfect equality (A + B).
- Mathematically, it is expressed as: Gini coefficient=BA+B\text{Gini coefficient} = \frac{B}{A + B}
- Alternatively, it can be calculated as: Gini coefficient=1−2A\text{Gini coefficient} = 1 - 2A (since A + B = 0.5 if the axes are scaled from 0 to 1).
- Despite affirmative action policies, Dalits and SCs often face discrimination in education, employment, and access to public services. Social ostracism and violence against these groups remain significant issues.
- Indigenous communities or Adivasis face displacement from their ancestral lands due to industrial projects, lack of access to quality education and healthcare, and underrepresentation in political and administrative positions.
- There is a wide gap between the rich and the poor. A small percentage of the population controls a large portion of the country’s wealth, leading to skewed economic opportunities and resources.
- Rural areas suffer from inadequate infrastructure, lower educational and employment opportunities, and poorer healthcare facilities compared to urban areas.
- Women in India face barriers in education, employment, and healthcare. Issues like gender-based violence, wage disparity, and lack of political representation persist. In rural areas, traditional norms often restrict women's mobility and participation in the workforce.
- These groups face social stigma, discrimination in employment and education, and inadequate legal protections.
- Often face socio-economic disadvantages, including lower levels of education and higher rates of poverty. Communal violence and discrimination in housing and employment are also significant challenges.
- While some religious minorities fare better in socio-economic terms, they can still face discrimination and targeted violence.
- ortheast India: This region suffers from underdevelopment, insurgency, and lack of connectivity with the rest of the country. Ethnic conflicts and political instability further exacerbate socio-economic issues.
- States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha: These states lag in key development indicators such as literacy rates, health services, and per capita income compared to more developed states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
- Significant disparities exist in access to quality education between urban and rural areas, and among different socio-economic groups. Government schools often lack infrastructure and qualified teachers, especially in rural areas.
- High dropout rates among marginalized groups, particularly girls, and children from SC/ST communities, limit their future employment opportunities.
- Rural areas and marginalized communities often lack access to basic healthcare facilities. Issues like malnutrition, maternal and child mortality, and communicable diseases are more prevalent in these areas.
- The quality of healthcare services varies widely, with private hospitals providing better care than underfunded public hospitals.
- High rates of unemployment, particularly among the youth and women. Many are employed in the informal sector with no job security or benefits.
- A mismatch between the skills provided by the education system and the needs of the job market.
- Farmers face issues like unpredictable weather patterns, water scarcity, and poor access to modern agricultural technologies. This is compounded by debt and inadequate government support.
- Major cities suffer from severe air and water pollution, impacting the health and quality of life of urban residents.
- Lack of proper roads, electricity, and internet connectivity in rural areas hampers economic growth and access to services.
- Rapid urbanization has led to the growth of slums with inadequate housing, sanitation, and basic amenities.
- Addressing these socio-economic challenges requires targeted policies and programs that consider the unique needs and circumstances of each group. Comprehensive measures focusing on inclusive growth, social justice, and equitable resource distribution are essential for fostering a more equal and prosperous society in India.
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For Prelims : Indian Polity
For mains : GS II-Governance, Constitution and Polity
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Previous Year Questions
1.The Gini coefficient is a measure of (IB ACIO Grade-II Official Paper-I 2015)
A.Rodent population
B. Migration rate of Guiness nationals
C. Income inequality
D.Ratio of coinage to currency note
Answer (C)
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MONSOON IN INDIA
- Monsoons involve a significant shift in wind direction between seasons. During the wet season, winds blow from the ocean towards the land, bringing moist air and heavy rainfall. During the dry season, winds reverse direction, blowing from the land to the ocean, resulting in dry conditions
- The wet season is marked by heavy and sustained rainfall, often leading to flooding and lush vegetation growth. The dry season, in contrast, has little to no rainfall, leading to drought conditions in some regions
- Monsoons are most commonly associated with South Asia, particularly the Indian subcontinent. Other regions that experience monsoon patterns include Southeast Asia, parts of Africa, Australia, and the southwestern United States
- Monsoons play a crucial role in the climate and agriculture of affected regions. They provide essential water for crops and replenish groundwater supplies. However, they can also cause destructive flooding and landslides
- The Indian monsoon is a significant and complex weather phenomenon that has a profound impact on the climate, agriculture, and economy of the Indian subcontinent one of the most well-known and studied monsoon systems is the Indian monsoon, which significantly affects the climate and economy of India and its neighbouring countries.
- Southwest Monsoon: Occurs from June to September. Winds blow from the southwest, bringing moisture-laden air from the Indian Ocean, resulting in heavy rainfall over the Indian subcontinent.
- Northeast Monsoon: Occurs from October to December. Winds blow from the northeast, bringing drier air, although the southeastern coast of India and Sri Lanka receive some rainfall during this period.
- The Southwest Monsoon from June to September delivers over 70% of India's annual rainfall. Typically, the monsoon reaches the Andaman Sea in the third week of May and moves onto the mainland through Kerala, with June 1 being the usual start date.
- Its progression is characterised by surges, advancing rapidly to central India before slowing down.
- By the end of June, it generally reaches north Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and surrounding areas, covering the entire country by July 15. An early or timely onset does not ensure consistent or adequate rainfall throughout the season, nor does a delayed onset necessarily lead to below-average rainfall.
- The total rainfall from June to September is influenced by various factors and exhibits natural year-to-year variability, making each monsoon season unique. The distribution of rainfall is as important as the total amount.
- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts 'above normal' rainfall for this season, estimated to be 106% of the Long Period Average of 880 mm (based on 1971-2020 data).
- This forecast of increased rainfall is largely due to the expected development of La Niña conditions, which typically enhance the Indian monsoon, and a positive phase of the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)
The Indian Monsoon is broadly divided into two main branches, each with distinct characteristics and regions of influence: the Arabian Sea Branch and the Bay of Bengal Branch.
Arabian Sea Branch
Characteristics:
- Source: Originates from the southwestern part of the Arabian Sea.
- Path: Moves towards the western coast of India.
- Onset: Typically hits the Kerala coast around June 1st, marking the official start of the Southwest Monsoon.
Key Features:
- Western Ghats: The moist air from the Arabian Sea rises when it encounters the Western Ghats, causing heavy rainfall on the windward side.
- Progression: Advances northwards along the western coast, bringing significant rainfall to regions such as Goa, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.
- Reach: Extends into central and northwestern India, contributing to the monsoon rains in these areas.
Bay of Bengal Branch
Characteristics:
- Source: Originates from the southeastern part of the Bay of Bengal.
- Path: Moves towards the eastern coast of India and then travels northwestwards.
Key Features:
- Northeastern India: Initially brings heavy rainfall to northeastern states such as Assam, Meghalaya, and West Bengal as it hits the Eastern Himalayas.
- Progression: Moves across the Indo-Gangetic Plain, covering Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and eventually reaching northern India including Delhi.
- Distribution: Influences the monsoon patterns in central and northern India, often merging with the Arabian Sea branch to provide widespread rainfall.
Coriolis Force
The Coriolis Force is an apparent force resulting from the Earth's rotation. It influences the rotational movement seen in tropical cyclones, causing monsoon winds to deflect eastward and blow from the southwest to the northeast. Since the Earth's rotation is constant, the Coriolis Force experienced by air at a specific latitude and velocity remains steady.
Mascarene High
The Mascarene High is a significant high-pressure zone that drives the southwest monsoon winds toward the Indian subcontinent. Forming by mid-April, the strength of this high-pressure area is crucial in determining the intensity of the Indian monsoon. A stronger high leads to stronger winds and a more robust monsoon. A delayed formation of the Mascarene High can result in a delayed onset of the monsoon in India.
Indian Summer
High-pressure winds move towards low-pressure areas. The Himalayas play a key role in summer heating by blocking cold northern air, allowing for warmer conditions. During summer, India becomes extremely hot, and surrounding ocean temperatures rise. This creates a pressure gradient between the cooler sea air and the warmer land air, particularly over Rajasthan. Consequently, monsoon winds are drawn towards the low-pressure area over India.
Indian Ocean Dipole
In 1999, N.H. Saji and colleagues from Japan’s University of Aizu identified the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), an ENSO-like phenomenon in the Indian Ocean. The IOD has three phases: positive, negative, and neutral. During the positive IOD phase, sea surface temperatures in the western Indian Ocean are warmer than in the eastern part. Conversely, during the negative phase, the eastern Indian Ocean is warmer. No significant gradient exists during the neutral phase. Positive IOD phases are associated with significantly higher Indian summer monsoon rainfall compared to negative IOD phases.
El Niño
El Niño refers to the occasional appearance of a warm ocean current off the coast of Peru, temporarily replacing the cold Peruvian current. Named after the infant Christ ("El Niño" means "the child" in Spanish) because it occurs around Christmas, El Niño leads to increased sea-surface temperatures and reduced trade winds in the region.
El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO)
The El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) describes the cyclic variations in sea surface temperatures around the equatorial Pacific Ocean. ENSO's unpredictable nature has long challenged forecasters. It affects global weather patterns, especially in countries bordering the Pacific Ocean, by influencing air circulation.
Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ)
The ITCZ is a broad low-pressure area found in equatorial latitudes where the northeast and southeast trade winds converge. This zone shifts north and south following the sun’s apparent movement. The position and strength of the ITCZ significantly affect the Indian Monsoon.
Tropical Easterly Jet (TEJ)
The TEJ plays a crucial role in initiating the southwest monsoon. This jet stream flows over the Indian Ocean near Madagascar, intensifying the high-pressure cell and triggering the southwest monsoon. Persistent high summer temperatures over Tibet help develop the easterly jet, leading to heavy rainfall in India. Conversely, if the Tibetan Plateau retains its snow cover, the easterly jet does not form, resulting in reduced monsoon rainfall in India. Thus, years with extensive snow in Tibet are typically followed by weaker monsoons and less rainfall
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For Prelims: Southwest monsoon El Nino, Coriolis Force For Mains: GS I- Monssons and their effects on Indian Agriculture |
Source: Indianexpress
SPEAKER OF LOK SABHA
The constitutional provisions related to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha in India are primarily outlined in the Constitution of India, particularly in Articles 93 to 97.
Here are the key constitutional provisions related to the Speaker:
- Article 93(1) states that the Lok Sabha (House of the People) shall choose two of its members to be the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker.
- Article 94(1) provides that the Speaker or the Deputy Speaker may resign by writing addressed to the Deputy Speaker or, if the office of Deputy Speaker is vacant, to the President of India.
- Article 94(2) states that before the House of the People first meets after each general election and before the office of Speaker and Deputy Speaker becomes vacant, the President shall appoint from among the members of the House a Speaker pro tem.
- Article 95 provides for the election of a Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha by its members.
- Article 96 outlines the procedure for the removal of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker. It states that they may be removed from office by a resolution of the Lok Sabha passed by a majority of all the then members of the House, after giving not less than 14 days’ notice of the intention to move the resolution.
- Article 97 provides for the vacation of the office of Speaker or Deputy Speaker, stating that their office shall become vacant if they cease to be a member of the Lok Sabha.
In India, both the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha are elected by the members of the Lok Sabha (House of the People), as per the provisions laid out in the Constitution of India and the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha.
Election of the Speaker:
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Nomination: Any member of the Lok Sabha who is eligible to be elected as Speaker may propose another member as a candidate for the office of Speaker. This proposal must be supported by at least 50 members.
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Voting: Once nominations are completed, voting takes place by a simple majority of members present and voting. The voting is conducted by means of a voice vote or a division (where members physically stand up to indicate their choice).
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Oath: After the election, the newly elected Speaker has to make and subscribe to an oath or affirmation before the President or some person appointed in that behalf by the President.
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Assumption of Office: The Speaker assumes office immediately after taking the oath or affirmation.
Election of the Deputy Speaker:
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Nomination: Similar to the Speaker, any member of the Lok Sabha may propose another member as a candidate for the office of Deputy Speaker. The proposal needs support from at least 50 members.
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Voting: Voting for the Deputy Speaker also takes place by a simple majority of members present and voting. The procedure for voting is the same as for the Speaker.
-
Oath: Once elected, the Deputy Speaker has to make and subscribe to an oath or affirmation before the Speaker or some person appointed in that behalf by the Speaker.
-
Assumption of Office: The Deputy Speaker assumes office immediately after taking the oath or affirmation.
- The pro-tem Speaker convenes the first meeting of the newly elected Lok Sabha. This includes overseeing the swearing-in ceremony of newly elected members.
- The pro-tem Speaker administers the oath or affirmation to all members-elect of the Lok Sabha.
- During the first meeting, the pro-tem Speaker presides over the House. They ensure that the proceedings are conducted in accordance with parliamentary rules and procedures.
- The primary duty of the pro-tem Speaker is to facilitate the election of the regular Speaker of the Lok Sabha. They oversee the process of nominations and the voting procedure until a Speaker is elected
- Similar to the regular Speaker, the pro-tem Speaker maintains order and decorum in the House. They have the authority to call members to order and ensure that debates and discussions are conducted respectfully
- The pro-tem Speaker decides on points of order raised during the proceedings and interprets parliamentary rules as necessary
- Until the regular Speaker assumes office, the pro-tem Speaker represents the Lok Sabha in ceremonial functions or interactions with the President or other dignitaries.
- Once the regular Speaker is elected by the members of the Lok Sabha, the pro-tem Speaker facilitates the smooth transition of responsibilities and hands over charge to the elected Speaker
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A resolution for the removal of the Speaker can be moved in the Lok Sabha. This resolution must be supported by at least 50 members of the House
- A minimum notice period of 14 days is required before the resolution can be taken up for consideration in the House. This notice period allows for adequate preparation and notification to all members
- The resolution for removal is debated and discussed in the Lok Sabha. Members are given an opportunity to present arguments for or against the removal of the Speaker.
- After the debate, the resolution is put to vote. The resolution for removal of the Speaker requires a majority of all the then members of the Lok Sabha (i.e., a simple majority of members present and voting is not sufficient)
- If the resolution for removal is passed by a majority of all the then members of the Lok Sabha, the Speaker ceases to hold office from the date of the passing of the resolution
- Upon the removal of the Speaker, the office of the Speaker becomes vacant. The Deputy Speaker or, in their absence, any other member of the Lok Sabha presides over the House until a new Speaker is elected
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For Prelims: Indian Polity
For Mains: GS-II: Governance, Constitution and Polity
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Previous Year Questions
1.With reference to the Speaker of Lok Sabha, consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2024)
While any resolution for the removal of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha is under consideration 1. He/She shall not preside. 2. He/She shall not have the right to speak. 3. He/She shall not be entitled to vote on the resolution in the first instance. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer (a)
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MONSOON IN INDIA
- Monsoons involve a significant shift in wind direction between seasons. During the wet season, winds blow from the ocean towards the land, bringing moist air and heavy rainfall. During the dry season, winds reverse direction, blowing from the land to the ocean, resulting in dry conditions
- The wet season is marked by heavy and sustained rainfall, often leading to flooding and lush vegetation growth. The dry season, in contrast, has little to no rainfall, leading to drought conditions in some regions
- Monsoons are most commonly associated with South Asia, particularly the Indian subcontinent. Other regions that experience monsoon patterns include Southeast Asia, parts of Africa, Australia, and the southwestern United States
- Monsoons play a crucial role in the climate and agriculture of affected regions. They provide essential water for crops and replenish groundwater supplies. However, they can also cause destructive flooding and landslides
- The Indian monsoon is a significant and complex weather phenomenon that has a profound impact on the climate, agriculture, and economy of the Indian subcontinent one of the most well-known and studied monsoon systems is the Indian monsoon, which significantly affects the climate and economy of India and its neighbouring countries.
- Southwest Monsoon: Occurs from June to September. Winds blow from the southwest, bringing moisture-laden air from the Indian Ocean, resulting in heavy rainfall over the Indian subcontinent.
- Northeast Monsoon: Occurs from October to December. Winds blow from the northeast, bringing drier air, although the southeastern coast of India and Sri Lanka receive some rainfall during this period.
- The Southwest Monsoon from June to September delivers over 70% of India's annual rainfall. Typically, the monsoon reaches the Andaman Sea in the third week of May and moves onto the mainland through Kerala, with June 1 being the usual start date.
- Its progression is characterised by surges, advancing rapidly to central India before slowing down.
- By the end of June, it generally reaches north Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and surrounding areas, covering the entire country by July 15. An early or timely onset does not ensure consistent or adequate rainfall throughout the season, nor does a delayed onset necessarily lead to below-average rainfall.
- The total rainfall from June to September is influenced by various factors and exhibits natural year-to-year variability, making each monsoon season unique. The distribution of rainfall is as important as the total amount.
- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts 'above normal' rainfall for this season, estimated to be 106% of the Long Period Average of 880 mm (based on 1971-2020 data).
- This forecast of increased rainfall is largely due to the expected development of La Niña conditions, which typically enhance the Indian monsoon, and a positive phase of the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)
The Indian Monsoon is broadly divided into two main branches, each with distinct characteristics and regions of influence: the Arabian Sea Branch and the Bay of Bengal Branch.
Arabian Sea Branch
Characteristics:
- Source: Originates from the southwestern part of the Arabian Sea.
- Path: Moves towards the western coast of India.
- Onset: Typically hits the Kerala coast around June 1st, marking the official start of the Southwest Monsoon.
Key Features:
- Western Ghats: The moist air from the Arabian Sea rises when it encounters the Western Ghats, causing heavy rainfall on the windward side.
- Progression: Advances northwards along the western coast, bringing significant rainfall to regions such as Goa, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.
- Reach: Extends into central and northwestern India, contributing to the monsoon rains in these areas.
Bay of Bengal Branch
Characteristics:
- Source: Originates from the southeastern part of the Bay of Bengal.
- Path: Moves towards the eastern coast of India and then travels northwestwards.
Key Features:
- Northeastern India: Initially brings heavy rainfall to northeastern states such as Assam, Meghalaya, and West Bengal as it hits the Eastern Himalayas.
- Progression: Moves across the Indo-Gangetic Plain, covering Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and eventually reaching northern India including Delhi.
- Distribution: Influences the monsoon patterns in central and northern India, often merging with the Arabian Sea branch to provide widespread rainfall.
Coriolis Force
The Coriolis Force is an apparent force resulting from the Earth's rotation. It influences the rotational movement seen in tropical cyclones, causing monsoon winds to deflect eastward and blow from the southwest to the northeast. Since the Earth's rotation is constant, the Coriolis Force experienced by air at a specific latitude and velocity remains steady.
Mascarene High
The Mascarene High is a significant high-pressure zone that drives the southwest monsoon winds toward the Indian subcontinent. Forming by mid-April, the strength of this high-pressure area is crucial in determining the intensity of the Indian monsoon. A stronger high leads to stronger winds and a more robust monsoon. A delayed formation of the Mascarene High can result in a delayed onset of the monsoon in India.
Indian Summer
High-pressure winds move towards low-pressure areas. The Himalayas play a key role in summer heating by blocking cold northern air, allowing for warmer conditions. During summer, India becomes extremely hot, and surrounding ocean temperatures rise. This creates a pressure gradient between the cooler sea air and the warmer land air, particularly over Rajasthan. Consequently, monsoon winds are drawn towards the low-pressure area over India.
Indian Ocean Dipole
In 1999, N.H. Saji and colleagues from Japan’s University of Aizu identified the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), an ENSO-like phenomenon in the Indian Ocean. The IOD has three phases: positive, negative, and neutral. During the positive IOD phase, sea surface temperatures in the western Indian Ocean are warmer than in the eastern part. Conversely, during the negative phase, the eastern Indian Ocean is warmer. No significant gradient exists during the neutral phase. Positive IOD phases are associated with significantly higher Indian summer monsoon rainfall compared to negative IOD phases.
El Niño
El Niño refers to the occasional appearance of a warm ocean current off the coast of Peru, temporarily replacing the cold Peruvian current. Named after the infant Christ ("El Niño" means "the child" in Spanish) because it occurs around Christmas, El Niño leads to increased sea-surface temperatures and reduced trade winds in the region.
El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO)
The El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) describes the cyclic variations in sea surface temperatures around the equatorial Pacific Ocean. ENSO's unpredictable nature has long challenged forecasters. It affects global weather patterns, especially in countries bordering the Pacific Ocean, by influencing air circulation.
Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ)
The ITCZ is a broad low-pressure area found in equatorial latitudes where the northeast and southeast trade winds converge. This zone shifts north and south following the sun’s apparent movement. The position and strength of the ITCZ significantly affect the Indian Monsoon.
Tropical Easterly Jet (TEJ)
The TEJ plays a crucial role in initiating the southwest monsoon. This jet stream flows over the Indian Ocean near Madagascar, intensifying the high-pressure cell and triggering the southwest monsoon. Persistent high summer temperatures over Tibet help develop the easterly jet, leading to heavy rainfall in India. Conversely, if the Tibetan Plateau retains its snow cover, the easterly jet does not form, resulting in reduced monsoon rainfall in India. Thus, years with extensive snow in Tibet are typically followed by weaker monsoons and less rainfall
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For Prelims: Southwest monsoon El Nino, Coriolis Force For Mains: GS I- Monssons and their effects on Indian Agriculture |
Source: Indianexpress
GINI COEFFICIENT
-
Order the Population:
- Sort the population by income or wealth from the poorest to the richest.
-
Plot the Lorenz Curve:
- On the x-axis, plot the cumulative percentage of the population.
- On the y-axis, plot the cumulative percentage of income or wealth.
- The Lorenz curve typically starts at (0,0) and ends at (100,100).
-
Calculate the Area Under the Lorenz Curve:
- The area under the Lorenz curve is denoted as A.
-
Calculate the Area Under the Line of Perfect Equality:
- The line of perfect equality (where everyone has the same income) is a 45-degree line from (0,0) to (100,100).
- The area under this line is denoted as A + B, where B is the area between the Lorenz curve and the line of perfect equality.
-
Compute the Gini Coefficient:
- The Gini coefficient is calculated as the ratio of the area between the line of perfect equality and the Lorenz curve (B) to the total area under the line of perfect equality (A + B).
- Mathematically, it is expressed as: Gini coefficient=BA+B\text{Gini coefficient} = \frac{B}{A + B}
- Alternatively, it can be calculated as: Gini coefficient=1−2A\text{Gini coefficient} = 1 - 2A (since A + B = 0.5 if the axes are scaled from 0 to 1).
- Despite affirmative action policies, Dalits and SCs often face discrimination in education, employment, and access to public services. Social ostracism and violence against these groups remain significant issues.
- Indigenous communities or Adivasis face displacement from their ancestral lands due to industrial projects, lack of access to quality education and healthcare, and underrepresentation in political and administrative positions.
- There is a wide gap between the rich and the poor. A small percentage of the population controls a large portion of the country’s wealth, leading to skewed economic opportunities and resources.
- Rural areas suffer from inadequate infrastructure, lower educational and employment opportunities, and poorer healthcare facilities compared to urban areas.
- Women in India face barriers in education, employment, and healthcare. Issues like gender-based violence, wage disparity, and lack of political representation persist. In rural areas, traditional norms often restrict women's mobility and participation in the workforce.
- These groups face social stigma, discrimination in employment and education, and inadequate legal protections.
- Often face socio-economic disadvantages, including lower levels of education and higher rates of poverty. Communal violence and discrimination in housing and employment are also significant challenges.
- While some religious minorities fare better in socio-economic terms, they can still face discrimination and targeted violence.
- ortheast India: This region suffers from underdevelopment, insurgency, and lack of connectivity with the rest of the country. Ethnic conflicts and political instability further exacerbate socio-economic issues.
- States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha: These states lag in key development indicators such as literacy rates, health services, and per capita income compared to more developed states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
- Significant disparities exist in access to quality education between urban and rural areas, and among different socio-economic groups. Government schools often lack infrastructure and qualified teachers, especially in rural areas.
- High dropout rates among marginalized groups, particularly girls, and children from SC/ST communities, limit their future employment opportunities.
- Rural areas and marginalized communities often lack access to basic healthcare facilities. Issues like malnutrition, maternal and child mortality, and communicable diseases are more prevalent in these areas.
- The quality of healthcare services varies widely, with private hospitals providing better care than underfunded public hospitals.
- High rates of unemployment, particularly among the youth and women. Many are employed in the informal sector with no job security or benefits.
- A mismatch between the skills provided by the education system and the needs of the job market.
- Farmers face issues like unpredictable weather patterns, water scarcity, and poor access to modern agricultural technologies. This is compounded by debt and inadequate government support.
- Major cities suffer from severe air and water pollution, impacting the health and quality of life of urban residents.
- Lack of proper roads, electricity, and internet connectivity in rural areas hampers economic growth and access to services.
- Rapid urbanization has led to the growth of slums with inadequate housing, sanitation, and basic amenities.
- Addressing these socio-economic challenges requires targeted policies and programs that consider the unique needs and circumstances of each group. Comprehensive measures focusing on inclusive growth, social justice, and equitable resource distribution are essential for fostering a more equal and prosperous society in India.
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For Prelims : Indian Polity
For mains : GS II-Governance, Constitution and Polity
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Previous Year Questions
1.The Gini coefficient is a measure of (IB ACIO Grade-II Official Paper-I 2015)
A.Rodent population
B. Migration rate of Guiness nationals
C. Income inequality
D.Ratio of coinage to currency note
Answer (C)
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