A Finance Bill is a type of legislation presented in a country's parliament that outlines the government's proposals related to taxation, government spending, and other financial matters for a specific fiscal year. The primary purpose of a Finance Bill is to give legal effect to the fiscal policies announced by the government in the annual budget.

Key features of a Finance Bill include:

• Taxation Proposals: The Finance Bill contains provisions related to changes in taxes, duties, and levies. It may introduce new taxes, amend existing tax rates, or provide exemptions.

• Appropriation of Funds: The bill includes details about the allocation and appropriation of funds for various government expenditures. It outlines how the government plans to collect and spend money during the fiscal year.

• Government Spending: The Finance Bill specifies the government's planned expenditures across different sectors, such as education, healthcare, defense, infrastructure, and more.

• Economic Policies: It may contain measures to stimulate economic growth, control inflation, or address other macroeconomic concerns.

• Implementation of Budget Proposals: The Finance Bill is presented in conjunction with the annual budget, and it seeks to implement the financial proposals outlined in the budget speech delivered by the Finance Minister.

• Parliamentary Approval: In many parliamentary systems, the Finance Bill must be approved by the legislature to become law. It goes through the normal legislative process, including debates, committee scrutiny, and voting.

In some countries, including India, a specific type of Finance Bill is known as the "Money Bill." A Money Bill exclusively deals with matters specified in the constitution, such as taxation, borrowing, and expenditure from the consolidated fund. Money Bills have special procedures for introduction and passage, and they require certification by the Speaker of the lower house (e.g., Lok Sabha in India)

Source: Indianexpress

CAUVERY WATER DISPUTE

• The Cauvery water dispute, which has been a bone of contention between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu for decades now
• The Cauvery water dispute has influenced the politics of the region for long with parties stirring the emotions of people as the river has a deep cultural, economic and religious significance for them
• The Cauvery basin covers a large expanse of land including major chunks in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and also smaller areas in Kerala and Puducherry
• Initially, the dispute was between Karnataka and TN but later Kerala and Puducherry also entered the fray
• The issue dates back to 1892 when an agreement was filed between Madras Presidency and Mysore for arbitration but led to a fresh set of disputes
• Later, attempts were renewed to arbitrate between the two states under supervision of the Government of India and a second agreement was signed in 1924

• As Kerala and Puducherry also laid claim on share of Cauvery water after India attained Independence, a Fact Finding Committee was set-up in 1970 to figure out the situation on ground
• The committee submitted its report in 1972 and further studies were done by expert committee and the states reached at an agreement in 1976
• However, after a new government came to power in Tamil Nadu, it refused to give a consent to terms of agreement paving way for further dispute
• Later in 1986, Tamil Nadu government appealed the Central government to constitute a tribunal for solving the issue under Inter-State Water Disputes Act, 1956
• However, the tribunal was not set-up until Supreme Court took cognizance of the matter and ordered the Central government to do so in 1990. The Cauvery Waters Tribunal was constituted on June, 2, 1990
• After 16 years of hearing and an interim order, the Tribunal announced its final order in 2007 allocating 419 tmc ft water to Tamil Nadu and 270 tmc ft to Karnataka
• Kerala was given 30 tmc ft and Puducherry got 7 tmc ft. The Tribunal had come to a conclusion that total availability of water in Cauvery basin stood at 740 tmc ft
•  However, both Tamil Nadu and Karnataka filed a review petition before the Tribunal
• In 2012, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, as chairman of Cauvery River Authority, directed the Karnataka government to release 9,000 cusecs of water daily

• The Cauvery River, also spelled as Kaveri, is one of the major rivers in South India. It originates from the Western Ghats in Karnataka and flows through the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
• The river and its tributaries have significant cultural, historical, and ecological importance.
• The Cauvery River originates at Talakaveri in the Brahmagiri hills of the Western Ghats in Karnataka.
• It flows eastward through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu before eventually emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
• The river traverses a distance of approximately 765 kilometers

• The Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) is a statutory body constituted by the Government of India under the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956.
• The CWMA is responsible for the implementation of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) Award, as modified by the Supreme Court of India
• The CWMA has its headquarters in New Delhi. It has a governing council, which is headed by the Union Minister for Water Resources. The governing council also has representatives from the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry.
• The CWMA is a critical institution for the management of the Cauvery River basin. It is responsible for ensuring that the river's water is shared in a fair and equitable way, and that the river is managed in a sustainable manner.

Previous Year Questions 1.Which of the following Protected Areas are located in Cauvery basin? (UPSC GS1, 2020) 1. Nagarhole National Park 2. Papikonda National Park 3. Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve 4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 and 4 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Answer (c)

 

 

Source: indianexpress

 

NATIONAL TESTING AGENCY (NTA)

 

 

1. Context

The Supreme Court on Monday sought responses from student-petitioners to a request made by the National Testing Agency (NTA), which is under a cloud over the conduct of NEET-UG marred by leaks and other irregularities, to transfer their pleas pending in various High Courts to the Supreme Court

 

2. About the National Testing Agency(NTA)

 

The NTA was established in 2017 as an independent and self-sufficient testing organization under the Ministry of Education, previously known as the Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD). It is recognized as a registered society under the Societies Registration Act, of 1860, and is subject to the Right to Information (RTI) Act. Prior to the creation of the NTA, various government entities such as the University Grants Commission (UGC), the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), and central universities like Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) conducted their own examinations

 

3. Envision of National Testing Agency (NTA)

 

The origins of the NTA can be traced back to the Programme of Action 1992, associated with the National Education Policy 1986, which advocated for the creation of a national-level examination body. In 2010, a committee of directors from the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) recommended forming this agency through legislation to guarantee its independence and transparency. It was designed based on the model of the Educational Testing Service (ETS) in the United States. The establishment of the NTA was announced in 2017 and received cabinet approval shortly thereafter. Vineet Joshi, who is currently the Chief Secretary of Manipur, was appointed as the first Director General. Subodh Kumar Singh, who succeeded him, was removed from the position last week

 

4.Exams Conducted by NTA

 

• The NTA administers three major undergraduate entrance exams: JEE-Main for engineering, NEET-UG for medical courses, and CUET-UG for admissions to various other undergraduate programs.
• Each year, these exams see participation from over 5 million candidates. In addition, the NTA conducts CUET-PG for postgraduate admissions, UGC-NET, and CSIR UGC-NET. UGC-NET is used to determine eligibility for junior research fellowships, assistant professorships, and PhD admissions in Indian universities and colleges.
• CSIR UGC-NET is accepted for PhD admissions in disciplines such as Chemical Sciences, Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean and Planetary Sciences, Life Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, and Physical Sciences.
• The NTA also oversees the Common Management Admission Test (CMAT), Hotel Management Joint Entrance Examination, Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test, and entrance exams for institutions like Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)

5. Controversy around NTA

• This year, the NTA faced criticism for awarding grace marks to 1,563 NEET candidates to compensate for lost time due to examination delays at seven centres.
• This decision was challenged in the Supreme Court, with claims that it inflated scores and resulted in a record 67 candidates sharing the top rank.
• Consequently, the grace marks were withdrawn, and a retest was conducted for these candidates. Additionally, the NEET question paper was reportedly leaked, as discovered by the Bihar Police.
• The UGC-NET exam was cancelled a day after being conducted due to concerns about its integrity, with the Education Ministry confirming that the exam paper had been leaked on the darknet. As a precautionary measure, the CSIR UGC-NET was also postponed

6. Way Forward

 

The NTA is currently prioritizing the timely release of CUET-UG results, which are crucial for the university academic calendar, as well as re-conducting UGC-NET and scheduling a new date for CSIR-UGC NET. Following the removal of Subodh Singh as Director General, ITPO Chairman Pradeep Singh Kharola has taken on the additional responsibility of this role. A high-level panel formed by the Centre will provide recommendations on reforming the examination process, enhancing data security protocols, and reviewing the structure and operations of the NTA. The panel is expected to submit its report within two months

 

 

Source: Times of India

 

INDIAN SPACE RESEARCH ORGANISATION (ISRO)

 

 

1. Context

 

In June 2024, S. Somanath, Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Secretary of the Department of Space, said ISRO’s launch vehicle capability was three-times the demand. Many experts in the spaceflight sector and beyond interpreted this to mean the space launch market was grim. Mr. Somanath also suggested strong demand was needed for launch vehicles from the domestic Indian market

 

2. ISRO Space Launch Vehicles

 

• India possesses four launch vehicles: the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), and the Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM-3).
• These rockets are capable of deploying satellites weighing up to four tonnes into geosynchronous orbit. For payloads heavier than four tonnes, India relies on foreign launch vehicles such as Europe’s Ariane V and SpaceX’s Falcon 9.
• India currently operates a diverse fleet of satellites used for telecommunications, remote sensing, positioning, navigation, meteorology, disaster management, space-based internet, scientific research, and experimental missions. Launch vehicles are crucial for upcoming space missions like Chandrayaan 3 and Aditya L1
• All these launch vehicles will require satellites for deployment. Larger vehicles can support national objectives such as lunar exploration and establishing a space station, while ISRO can utilize smaller satellites for technology demonstrations and capability showcases. However, these smaller satellite missions will constitute only a minority of launches.
• Satellites have finite mission durations. As they age, the need arises to replace them with newer models, thereby generating ongoing demand for launch services.
• However, operators prefer extending satellite lifespans through software and hardware upgrades, complicating predictions regarding the quantity and frequency of required launches.
• Launch vehicle technology is also advancing. For instance, the PSLV can deploy multiple satellites into diverse orbits in a single launch. Increasingly, rocket stages are being designed for reusability, lowering production costs and enhancing economic viability. ISRO is developing Reusable Launch Vehicle and vertical landing technologies to facilitate stage reusability.
• Additionally, efforts are underway to transition rocket engines from traditional toxic fuels to environmentally friendly alternatives

3. Demand-driven model of ISRO

 

• The Indian space program previously operated on a supply-driven model, where ISRO would develop and launch satellites first, then seek customers requiring satellite services. In 2019-2020, the Indian government reformed the space sector to adopt a demand-driven approach.
• Now, satellites are only built and launched if there is existing demand for their services. This shift may have contributed to the challenges highlighted by Mr. Somanath.
• This has created a dilemma where potential customers of satellite services must first recognize the need for these services. Once demand is established, it prompts the creation and launch of satellites, addressing the demand Mr. Somanath referenced.
• Consider the example of space-based internet services.
• For such services to succeed in a country already well-served by affordable fiber and mobile internet, companies must educate potential users about the benefits of space-based connectivity. This education process creates the demand that prompts companies to launch satellite constellations into orbit to provide these services.
• Without well-informed customers, ISRO's anticipated demand levels will not materialize. These customers include not only consumers of space-based internet but also businesses, government agencies, defense establishments, and everyday individuals such as farmers and bankers. Therefore, substantial efforts are needed to educate a wide range of stakeholders.
• Another area likely to drive future demand is human spaceflight, encompassing human-rated launch vehicles for transporting humans and supplies to orbital destinations like space stations or the moon. Additionally, there may eventually be demand for space tourism

4.Launch capability limitations

 

• India’s current launch vehicles lack the necessary power for certain missions, such as Chandrayaan 4. China successfully launched its Chang’e 4 and Chang’e 5 missions using the Long March 5, demonstrating its capability to handle such missions in a single launch. In contrast, India’s LVM-3 has less than one-third of the Long March 5’s capacity (specifically 28%) and would require two LVM-3 launches to deploy all components of Chandrayaan 4.
• To enhance capability, ISRO plans to upgrade the LVM-3 with a semi-cryogenic engine to increase its payload capacity to six tonnes for geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) missions. Additionally, ISRO envisions developing a new launch vehicle, known as the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) or Project Soorya, capable of lifting 10 tonnes to GTO. However, funding for this project remains in the proposal stage. Variants of this launch vehicle are anticipated to further augment its lifting capacity.
• Furthermore, India requires another successful launch of the SSLV to bolster confidence in its capability to launch smaller satellites, typically experimental or university-built. Success in this arena would encourage space companies to develop larger satellites, potentially increasing demand for launch services

 

5.Launch vehicle economics

 

• All these launch vehicles will require satellites for deployment. Larger vehicles can support national objectives such as lunar exploration and establishing a space station, while ISRO can utilize smaller satellites for technology demonstrations and capability showcases. However, these smaller satellite missions will constitute only a minority of launches.
• Satellites have finite mission durations. As they age, the need arises to replace them with newer models, thereby generating ongoing demand for launch services. However, operators prefer extending satellite lifespans through software and hardware upgrades, complicating predictions regarding the quantity and frequency of required launches.
• Launch vehicle technology is also advancing. For instance, the PSLV can deploy multiple satellites into diverse orbits in a single launch.
• Increasingly, rocket stages are being designed for reusability, lowering production costs and enhancing economic viability. ISRO is developing Reusable Launch Vehicle and vertical landing technologies to facilitate stage reusability.
• Additionally, efforts are underway to transition rocket engines from traditional toxic fuels to environmentally friendly alternatives

6. Private sector vs government

 

• The Indian government aims for the private sector to stimulate demand among customers and take charge of satellite development and launches.
• It encourages private companies to identify and offer services both domestically and internationally, while also generating revenue through its own launch services. Additionally, the government aims to enhance skills and create job opportunities for workers.
• However, private companies prefer the government to act as a customer rather than a direct competitor in the launch industry. They seek the government to establish reliable regulations and enforce the rule of law.
• Private players seek a steady revenue stream, which the Indian government can provide over the long term. There is discussion about the government serving as an 'anchor customer' to support companies in their early stages.
• The strategy involves the government eventually stepping back from the launch vehicle sector, leaving sufficient demand for launch services with private companies.
• This mirrors the approach in the U.S., where government agencies like NASA contract with SpaceX, Blue Origin, and others for satellite launches.
• Therefore, the Indian government plans to absorb the transition costs from a supply-driven to a demand-driven satellite and launch vehicle development model. However, it has yet to educate its own ministries and establish some of the foundational demand for satellites and launch vehicles

7. Way Forward

India's space program is navigating a transition from a supply-driven to a demand-driven model, marked by advancements in launch vehicle capabilities and satellite technology. The country's efforts include upgrading existing launch vehicles and developing new ones to meet evolving national and international needs, such as lunar exploration and satellite services. While challenges persist, particularly in balancing government involvement with private sector aspirations, initiatives like enhancing satellite lifespans, promoting reusability in launch vehicles, and fostering private sector participation are pivotal. Looking ahead, India's strategy aims to foster a robust space ecosystem that integrates technological innovation, economic viability, and global competitiveness, positioning itself as a significant player in the global space arena

 

 

 

For Prelims: PSLV, GSLV, GSLV Mk-III, SSLV For Mains: GS III- Science & Technology- Satellite Applications, Challenges and Solutions

 

 

Previous Year Questions 1. With reference to India's satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2018) 1. PSLVs launch satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites. 2. Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth. 3. GSLV Mk III is a four- staged launch vehicle with the first and third stages using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 C. 1 and 2 D. 3 only Answer: A

Source: The Hindu

 

ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAPHY(EEG)

 

 

1. Context

This year marks the centenary of the first human EEG, produced by German physiologist Hans Berger. EEG measures electrical activity in the brain generated by neurons. In research, scientists use EEG for neuroscience, cognitive psychology, neurolinguistics etc

 

2. What is EEG?

 

• EEG stands for electroencephalography. The term combines "electro" for electricity, "encephalo" for brain, and "graphy" meaning to represent or show.
• Neurons in the brain function by moving electrically charged particles, such as ions, which create electrical activity.
• This activity can be visualized using an EEG test. Researchers have been able to correlate EEG data with various levels and types of brain activity, distinguishing between normal and abnormal states.
• EEG is a common diagnostic tool in clinical settings. It is the gold standard for diagnosing epilepsy and can also reveal the effects of anesthesia, sleeping patterns, neurological activity during a coma, and oxygen availability. EEG can also confirm brain death, which is one of the two legally recognized forms of death in India.
• In research, EEG is used in fields such as neuroscience, cognitive psychology, neurolinguistics, neuromarketing, and in the development of brain-computer interfaces

 

3.Invention of EEG

The invention of the EEG (electroencephalography) is credited to Hans Berger, a German psychiatrist, who made significant contributions to the field in the early 20th century.

 

Here’s a brief overview of its development:

• Hans Berger is known for recording the first human EEG in 1924. He discovered that the brain's electrical activity could be recorded from the scalp using electrodes. Berger's initial experiments involved his son and himself, where he used a device called a galvanometer to measure the brain's electrical currents. His findings led to the identification of what is now known as the alpha wave, or Berger wave, a pattern of electrical activity in the brain.
• Berger's work was initially met with skepticism. However, his subsequent publications in the late 1920s and early 1930s provided more detailed accounts of his findings, which gradually gained acceptance in the scientific community. His work demonstrated that brain activity could be measured and correlated with various mental states and conditions.
• The development of more sophisticated equipment in the 1930s and 1940s, such as the cathode-ray oscilloscope, allowed for better visualization and recording of brain waves. This period saw a surge in research and clinical applications of EEG
• By the 1950s, EEG had become a standard tool in neurology and psychiatry. It was used to diagnose and monitor epilepsy, sleep disorders, and other neurological conditions. The ability to non-invasively measure brain activity revolutionized the understanding of brain function and disorders
• Over the decades, EEG technology has continued to evolve with advancements in digital recording, signal processing, and the development of portable and wearable EEG devices. Today, EEG is widely used in clinical practice, research, and even consumer applications, such as brain-computer interfaces and neurofeedback

4. What is Volume Conduction?

• Volume conduction refers to the process by which electrical signals, generated by active tissues such as neurons, travel through the surrounding conductive medium, typically biological tissues like the brain, scalp, and skull.
• This phenomenon is crucial in understanding how EEG (electroencephalography) works, as it affects the way electrical potentials recorded at the scalp reflect the underlying neural activity
• EEG records the brain's electrical activity produced by neurons. During the test, a healthcare professional places electrodes on the scalp. Between the electrodes and the neurons are multiple layers of skin, fluid, and bone.
• When neurons generate electrical activity, charged particles traverse these layers before reaching the electrodes, undergoing various transformations like reflection, refraction, and scattering along the way.
• Volume conduction describes the process by which electrical signals travel through this three-dimensional space.
• It also highlights that the electrical activity originates in one location while the detectors are positioned at a distance.
• The raw data captured by the electrodes must be adjusted to account for volume conduction effects and for noise from faulty electrodes or incidental physiological activities (like blinking or muscle movements). A clinician then interprets the cleaned and processed data

 

5. How does an EEG Work?

 

An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a method used to record electrical activity in the brain. Here's a concise explanation of how it works:

• Electrode placement: Small metal discs called electrodes are attached to specific locations on the scalp.
• Signal detection: These electrodes detect tiny electrical impulses produced by brain cells (neurons) when they communicate.
• Amplification: The signals are extremely weak, so they are amplified thousands of times.
• Recording: The amplified signals are then recorded as wavy lines on a computer screen or on paper.
• Analysis: Patterns in these waves can indicate normal or abnormal brain activity, helping diagnicians identify various conditions

 

6.Challenges with EEG

• The voltage changes detected by the electrodes are sent to a computer, which then plots these readings on a graph with voltage on one axis and time on the other. Health professionals typically focus on two key aspects of the graph: the voltage (measured in microvolts) and the frequency of the variations (measured in hertz).
• They also consider the location of the neurons generating the recorded electrical activity, such as in the neocortex or allocortex, the two main areas of the cerebral cortex.
• EEG excels at tracking rapid brain electrical activity, with a temporal resolution on the order of milliseconds.
• However, it is more sensitive to electrical signals from the surface of the cortex and particularly to currents generated by neurons’ dendrites, rather than those from axons. Determining the exact origin of electrical activity within the brain from EEG data is also complex.
• To address these challenges, researchers often combine EEG with other tests, like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and use advanced techniques for data acquisition, processing, and reconstruction

7.Way Forward

 

In addition to its measurement and diagnostic capabilities, an EEG setup is straightforward and cost-efficient.

The equipment is compact, does not emit high-energy radiation or loud noises, does not confine patients in small spaces like MRI machines, is non-invasive, and is portable (the invasive form of EEG is called electrocorticography, or ECoG).

However, despite these advantages, setting up an EEG test requires time. This includes applying a gel to the person's scalp and positioning the electrodes accurately according to the 10-20 System. Additionally, the readings can be influenced by factors such as the thickness of the person's hair

 

 

For Prelims: Applications of EEG, Volume Conduction, EEG (Electroencephalography) For Mains: GS III- Science& Technology -Detailed Mechanism of EEG

 

Source: The Hindu

CRITICAL MINERALS

 

 

1. Context

 

In late June, the Centre declared the winning bidders for mining rights in six blocks of critical minerals, including graphite, phosphorite and lithium, for which India largely relies on imports. These are the first private players awarded such rights under the revamped Mines and Minerals law

 

2. What are Critical Minerals?

 

Critical minerals are raw materials that are essential for economic and national security, but whose supply may be at risk due to geological scarcity, geopolitical issues, trade policy, or other factors

Critical minerals are typically defined by governments or organizations based on their importance to the economy and the potential risks to their supply

• Rare Earth Elements (REEs): neodymium, dysprosium, terbium
• Lithium
• Cobalt
• Graphite
• Gallium
• Indium
• Tungsten
• Platinum Group Metals (PGMs)

3. Why are critical minerals important?

 

• Minerals such as copper, lithium, nickel, and cobalt, along with certain rare earth elements, are considered critical due to their essential role in the global transition to greener and cleaner energy sources.
• According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the demand for lithium surged by 30% in 2023, with nickel, cobalt, graphite, and rare earth elements experiencing growth between 8% and 15%, collectively valued at $325 billion.
• The IEA's Global Critical Minerals Outlook 2024 report indicates that achieving the world's goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius within a net-zero emissions framework will necessitate a significant increase in demand for these minerals.
• By 2040, copper demand is projected to rise by 50%, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements by 100%, graphite by 300%, and lithium by 800%, which is vital for battery production.
• Developing sustainable supply chains for these minerals is therefore crucial. In India, the absence of readily available reserves has led to complete import dependence for minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel. 

4. What is being done to spur production?

 

• Although India possesses natural reserves of several critical minerals, they remain largely unexplored and untapped. For example, despite holding 11% of the world's ilmenite deposits, which is the primary source of titanium dioxide used in numerous applications, India still imports a billion dollars' worth of titanium dioxide annually, as noted by former Mines Secretary Vivek Bharadwaj.
• Additionally, the "lucky" discovery of lithium reserves in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) while exploring for limestone has raised hopes for achieving some level of self-sufficiency in lithium. Announced in February as India's first lithium find, these reserves are estimated at 5.9 million tonnes, prompting the government to expedite their extraction.
• Recognizing the risks of relying on a limited number of countries for these minerals and their processing, the central government amended the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 in August 2023 to allow mining concessions for 24 critical and strategic minerals.

5. Way Forward

 

The list of what's considered "critical" can vary by country and change over time based on technological developments and geopolitical situations. The management of critical minerals is an ongoing challenge that requires balancing economic needs, environmental concerns, and geopolitical realities

 

 

For Prelims: Critical minerals, Ministry of Mines, carbon emissions,  cleaner energy,  lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite, tin, copper, Selenium, Cadmium, Centre of Excellence on critical minerals, Australia's CSIRO, Geological Survey of India,    For Mains:  1. What are critical minerals? Discuss their significance for a country's economic development and national security. Explain how the identification of critical minerals helps in reducing import dependency and ensuring resource security. (250 Words)

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1. With reference to the mineral resources of India, consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2010) Mineral                         90%Natural sources in 1. Copper                       Jharkhand 2. Nickel                        Orissa 3. Tungsten                    Kerala Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?   A. 1 and 2 only            B. 2 only             C. 1 and 3 only            D. 1, 2 and 3   Answer: B   2. Recently, there has been a concern over the short supply of a group of elements called 'rare earth metals.' Why? (UPSC 2012) 1. China, which is the largest producer of these elements, has imposed some restrictions on their export. 2. Other than China, Australia, Canada and Chile, these elements are not found in any country. 3. Rare earth metals are essential for the manufacture of various kinds of electronic items and there is a growing demand for these elements. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only              B. 2 and 3 only           C. 1 and 3 only          D.  1, 2 and 3   Answer: C   3. In India, what is the role of the Coal Controller's Organization (CCO)? (UPSC 2022) 1. CCO is the major source of Coal Statistics in Government of India. 2. It monitors progress of development of Captive Coal/Lignite blocks. 3. It hears any objection to the Government's notification relating to acquisition of coal-bearing areas. 4. It ensures that coal mining companies deliver the coal to end users in the prescribed time. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1, 2 and 3            B. 3 and 4 only           C. 1 and 2 only          D. 1, 2 and 4   Answer: A   4. Which of the following statements best describes the term 'Social Cost of Carbon'? It is a measure, in monetary value, of the (UPSC 2020)  A. long-term damage done by a tonne of CO2 emission in a given year. B. requirement of fossil fuels for a country to provide goods and services to its citizens, based on the burning of those fuels. C. efforts put in by a climate refugee to adapt to live in a new place. D. contribution of an individual person to the carbon footprint on the planet Earth.   Answer: A   5. Direction: It consists of two statements, one labelled as ‘Statement (I)’ and the others as ‘Statement (II)’. You are to examine these two statements carefully and select the answer using the codes given below: (UPSC ESE 2018) Statement (I): Green energy refers to one which does not harm the ecosystem of planet earth. Statement (II): All renewable energy is green energy. A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) individually true and Statement (II) is the correct explanation of Statement (I) B. Both statement (I) and Statement (II) are individually true, but Statement (II) is not the correct explanation of Statement (I) C. Statement (I) is true, but Statement (II) is false D. Statement (I) is false, but Statement (II) is true   Answer: C   6. Which type of battery is used in the recently launched world's first fully electric cargo ship by change? (Delhi Police Constable 2017) A.  Lead Acid        B. Manganese        C. Lithium ion        D. Nickel metal hydride   Answer: C   7. White gold is an alloy of (UPSC CAPF 2022)  A. gold, nickel and palladium B. gold, cobalt and palladium C. gold, titanium and platinum D. gold, magnesium and palladium   Answer: A   8. Graphene is frequently in news recently. What is its importance? (UPSC 2012)  1. It is a two-dimensional material and has good electrical conductivity. 2. It is one of the thinnest but strongest materials tested so far. 3. It is entirely made of silicon and has high optical transparency. 4. It can be used as 'conducting electrodes' required for touch screens, LCDs and organic LEDs. Which of the statements given above are correct? A. 1 and 2 only          B. 3 and 4 only         C.  1, 2 and 4 only          D.  1, 2, 3 and 4   Answer: C   9. Graphite and diamonds are__________. (WBCS Prelims 2020)   A. isotopes           B.  isomers             C. isotones           D. allotropes   Answer: D   10. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2020) 1. Coal ash contains arsenic, lead and mercury. 2. Coal-fired power plants release sulphur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen into the environment. 3. High ash content is observed in Indian coal. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only         B. 2 and 3 only        C.  3 only         D. 1, 2 and 3   Answer: D   11. Which of the following can be found as pollutants in the drinking water in some parts of India? (UPSC 2013) 1. Arsenic 2. Sorbitol 3. Fluoride 4. Formaldehyde 5. Uranium Select the correct answer using the codes given below. A. 1 and 3 only           B. 2, 4 and 5 only          C. 1, 3 and 5 only           D.  1, 2, 3, 4 and 5   Answer: C   12. In the context of solving pollution problems, what is/are the advantage/advantages of the bioremediation technique? (UPSC 2017) 1. It is a technique for cleaning up pollution by enhancing the same biodegradation process that occurs in nature. 2. Any contaminant with heavy metals such as cadmium and lead can be readily and completely treated by bioremediation using microorganisms. 3. Genetic engineering can be used to create microorganisms specifically designed for bioremediation. Select the correct answer using the code given below:  A. 1 only         B.  2 and 3 only          C.  1 and 3 only             D. 1, 2 and 3   Answer: C   13. Due to improper/indiscriminate disposal of old and used computers or their parts, which of the following are released into the environment as e-waste? (UPSC 2013)  1. Beryllium 2. Cadmium 3. Chromium 4. Heptachlor 5. Mercury 6. Lead 7. Plutonium Select the correct answer using the codes given below.  A. 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only           B. 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 only          C. 2, 4, 5 and 7 only               D. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7   Answer: B   14. When was the Geological Survey of India (GSI) of India founded? (UPRVUNL Staff Nurse 2021) A. 1851             B. 1951            C. 1871              D. 1931   Answer: A

 

 

Source: The Hindu

PORTRAYAL OF DISABILITY IN FILMS

 

 

1. Context

 

On July 8 2024, while hearing a plea to ban the film Aaankh Micholi for derogatory portrayal of people with disabilities, the Supreme Court in a landmark ruling laid down comprehensive guidelines to prevent stereotyping and discrimination of persons with disabilities (PwDs) in visual media, including films and documentaries

 

2. What is the Framework?

 

• The Supreme Court's framework emphasizes the importance of preventing stigmatization and discrimination, acknowledging their significant impact on the dignity and identity of individuals with disabilities.
• The guidelines include avoiding terms that foster institutional discrimination, such as "cripple" and "spastic," as these contribute to negative self-perceptions and perpetuate discriminatory attitudes.
• A panel led by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud stated that stereotyping people with disabilities in visual media and films must cease, urging creators to portray disabilities accurately rather than mockingly.
• The Court advised against using language that focuses solely on the impairment and ignores societal barriers, recommending against terms like "afflicted," "suffering," and "victim."
• Additionally, it called for adherence to the principle of "nothing about us, without us," encouraging the involvement of individuals with disabilities in the creation and evaluation of visual media content

 

3. Laws related to disability rights

 

The law which comprehensively deals with disability rights is the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act which came into force from April 19, 2017. It replaced the Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995. The National Trust Act (1999), Rehabilitation Council of India Act (1992), Mental Health Care Act (2017) are the other laws that govern disability rights

 

Here are some of the key laws and policies that grant disability rights in India:

1. Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016: This is the most comprehensive and recent legislation on disability rights in India. It replaced the earlier Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995. Key features include:

• Increased the types of recognized disabilities from 7 to 21
• Increased reservation in government jobs from 3% to 4%
• Introduced penalties for violations of the Act
• Mandated accessibility in public buildings, transportation, and information technology

2. Mental Healthcare Act, 2017: This Act protects the rights of persons with mental illnesses and ensures they have access to mental health care and services.
3. National Trust Act, 1999: This Act provides for the creation of a National Trust for the Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities.
4. Rehabilitation Council of India Act, 1992: This Act ensures the standardization and regulation of training programs for rehabilitation professionals working with people with disabilities.
5. Right to Education Act, 2009: While not specifically a disability law, this Act mandates free and compulsory education for all children between 6-14 years, including children with disabilities.
6. National Policy for Persons with Disabilities, 2006: This policy focuses on prevention of disabilities, rehabilitation measures, and creating a barrier-free environment for persons with disabilities.
7. Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Rules, 1996: These rules provide guidelines for implementing the provisions of the 1995 Act (now superseded by the 2016 Act).
8. Indian Sign Language Recognition, 2018: The government officially recognized Indian Sign Language as a language in its own right, which is a significant step for the deaf community.

 

4. Creative freedom in portrayal of disable persons in Films

 

The portrayal of disabled persons in films is an important and evolving topic that intersects creative freedom, representation, and social responsibility. Here's an overview of the key considerations:

• Creative Freedom: Filmmakers generally have broad artistic license to portray characters as they see fit. This includes the portrayal of disabled characters. Creative freedom allows for diverse storytelling and can lead to innovative and impactful representations.
• Authenticity vs. Artistic Interpretation: There's often debate about whether actors with disabilities should play disabled characters. While this can increase authenticity, some argue that acting is about portraying experiences different from one's own.
• Stereotypes and Tropes: Filmmakers have the freedom to use various tropes, but there's increasing awareness about avoiding harmful stereotypes like:

• The "inspirational disabled person"
• Disability as villainous or pitiable
• Miraculous "cures"

• Legal Considerations: In most countries, there are no specific laws restricting the portrayal of disabled persons in film. However, general anti-discrimination laws may apply if a portrayal is deemed severely offensive or discriminatory.
• Industry Guidelines: Many film industry bodies have voluntary guidelines promoting responsible portrayal of marginalized groups, including people with disabilities.
• Social Responsibility: While not legally mandated, there's growing expectation for filmmakers to consider the social impact of their portrayals.
• Consultation and Collaboration: Many filmmakers now work with disability consultants or organizations to ensure more accurate and respectful portrayals.
• Diverse Storytelling: There's increasing recognition of the value of telling diverse stories that include disabled characters in roles not defined solely by their disability.
• Critical Reception: Films portraying disability often face heightened scrutiny from critics and audiences, which can impact their reception and commercial success.
• Evolving Standards: What was once considered acceptable may now be seen as problematic. The standards for respectful portrayal continue to evolve

5. Way Forward

The court emphasised on collaboration with disability advocacy groups to gain invaluable insights and guidance on respectful and accurate portrayals, ensuring the content aligns with the lived experiences of persons with disabilities. It has also said that implementing training programmes for writers, directors, producers, and actors to emphasise the impact of portrayals on public perceptions and the lived experiences of persons with disabilities is a necessity

 

 

 

Source: The Hindu