YAMUNA RIVER
1. Context
The Yamuna river water is expected to arrive soon in Rajasthan’s Shekhawati region following an agreement signed recently with the Haryana government for ensuring the supply of the State’s entire share of water as per the 1994 Yamuna Water Agreement. The availability of water will resolve the issue of shortage of drinking and irrigation water in the four districts of Shekhawati region
2. About Yamuna River
The Yamuna River is one of the major rivers in India, flowing through the northern part of the country. It is the largest tributary of the Ganges River and plays a significant role in the socio-cultural and economic aspects of India.
Image Source: Pinterest
Key facts about the Yamuna River:
- Origin: The Yamuna originates from the Yamunotri Glacier in the Uttarakhand state of the Indian Himalayas. It begins its journey at an altitude of approximately 6,387 meters (20,955 feet) near the Bandarpoonch mountain.
- Course: The river flows through several Indian states, including Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh, before merging with the Ganges at the holy city of Allahabad (Prayagraj) in Uttar Pradesh. The total length of the Yamuna River is approximately 1,376 kilometers (855 miles).
- Importance: The Yamuna holds immense religious and cultural significance in India. It is considered a sacred river and is mentioned in ancient scriptures and mythology. Several major cities, including Delhi, are situated along its banks, making it an important water resource for millions of people.
- Pollution concerns: Over the years, the Yamuna River has faced severe pollution challenges. It receives untreated sewage, industrial waste, and agricultural runoff, which have led to a significant degradation in water quality. Efforts have been made by the government and various organizations to clean and restore the river, but pollution remains a significant issue.
- Conservation efforts: The Government of India, along with environmental organizations, has initiated various projects to clean the Yamuna River and improve its ecological condition. These efforts include sewage treatment plants, riverfront development plans, and awareness campaigns. However, the task of restoring the river to its pristine state remains a considerable challenge.
- Historical and cultural sites: The Yamuna River is closely associated with many historical and cultural sites. In Delhi, it flows past iconic landmarks such as the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Akshardham Temple. Additionally, the river is linked to several ancient cities and pilgrimage sites, including Mathura, Vrindavan, and Agra (home to the Taj Mahal).
3. Yamuna River and its Flooding
The Yamuna River is prone to flooding, particularly during the monsoon season, due to heavy rainfall and the release of water from upstream reservoirs. Flooding along the Yamuna River can have significant consequences for the regions it traverses, including loss of life, damage to property and infrastructure, displacement of people, and disruption to economic activities.
Here are some key points regarding Yamuna River flooding:
- Monsoon season: The Yamuna River basin receives a substantial amount of rainfall during the monsoon season, which generally lasts from June to September. The heavy rains, combined with the release of water from reservoirs upstream, can cause the river to overflow its banks.
- Impact on cities: Cities located along the Yamuna, such as Delhi and Agra, are particularly vulnerable to flooding. Low-lying areas near the river are more prone to inundation, and the densely populated regions around the riverbanks face significant risks during flood events.
- Flood management infrastructure: To mitigate the impact of flooding, various flood control measures have been implemented. These include the construction of embankments, floodplains, and reservoirs upstream to regulate water flow, as well as drainage systems and flood warning systems in cities.
- Environmental factors: Deforestation, encroachments on floodplains, and urbanization in the Yamuna basin contribute to increased flood risk. These activities reduce the river's natural capacity to absorb excess water and can exacerbate the impact of flooding.
- Government initiatives: The Indian government, along with state and local authorities, has implemented several flood management projects along the Yamuna River. These projects aim to control floodwaters, improve drainage systems, and relocate vulnerable communities to safer areas.
- Challenges and ongoing efforts: Despite flood management measures, the Yamuna River continues to pose a flooding threat. Rapid urbanization and inadequate maintenance of infrastructure are challenges that need to be addressed. Additionally, there is a need for better coordination between different government agencies to enhance flood preparedness and response.
| For Prelims: Yamuna River, Yamunotri Glacier, Himalayas, Bandarpoonch mountain, Holy city of Allahabad (Prayagraj), and Deforestation. |
Previous year Questions1. Consider the following tributaries of River Yamuna and arrange them from West to East: (UPSC 2020)
1. Betwa
2. Ken
3. Sindh
4. Chambal
Select the correct answer from the codes given below.
A. 4, 3, 1 and 2
B. 1, 2, 3 and 4
C. 3, 2, 1 and 4
D. 2, 3, 1 and 4
Answer: A
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Source: The Indian Express
BANNI GRASSLANDS
1. Context
The Kachchh district in Gujarat houses one of the largest tracts of grasslands in the country. In a new study, researchers have assessed the suitability of different areas of Banni for sustainable grassland restoration, considering ecological value to be the primary criterion
2.What is Banni Grassland reserve?
Banni Grassland Reserve is situated in the Kutch district, which is in the northwestern part of Gujarat, close to the border with Pakistan
It covers approximately 2,400 square kilometers, making it one of the largest grassland areas in India.
Banni is a unique and extensive grassland ecosystem, characterized by a variety of grass species, shrubs, and occasional trees. It supports a diverse range of flora and fauna adapted to the arid and semi-arid conditions of the region
The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including species such as the Asiatic Wild Ass (Equus hemionus), which is one of the key species found in the area. Other wildlife includes various birds, reptiles, and smaller mammals
3. Geography of Banni Grassland Reserve
The Banni Grassland Reserve in Gujarat, India, features a distinct and diverse geography. Here are the key geographical aspects:
- Location: The reserve is situated in the Kutch district of Gujarat, in the northwestern part of India. It is close to the Rann of Kutch, a vast salt marsh.
- Area: The Banni Grassland Reserve covers approximately 2,400 square kilometers, making it one of the largest grassland areas in India.
- Flat Terrain: The terrain of the Banni Grassland is predominantly flat and gently undulating. The area is characterized by expansive grasslands and occasional low-lying areas.
- Soil Type: The soil in Banni is generally saline and alkaline, which influences the type of vegetation that can thrive in the region. The soil composition supports the growth of specific grass species and shrubs adapted to these conditions.
- Arid Climate: The Banni Grassland Reserve experiences an arid climate, with very hot summers and relatively mild winters. Rainfall is seasonal and typically occurs during the monsoon season from June to September.
- Temperature: Temperatures in the region can soar above 40°C (104°F) during the peak of summer, while winter temperatures are cooler but still relatively mild.
- Seasonal Water Bodies: The reserve has seasonal water bodies and wetlands that form during the monsoon season. These temporary water sources are crucial for sustaining wildlife and supporting the grassland ecosystem.
- Drainage: The area lacks permanent rivers or large water bodies, with water availability being largely dependent on seasonal rainfall and the occasional inflow from surrounding regions.
4. Ecosystem and Vegetation at Banni Grassland Reserve
The Banni Grassland Reserve in Gujarat, India, features a unique and dynamic ecosystem, characterized by its arid climate and specialized vegetation.
Here’s an overview of the ecosystem and vegetation in the reserve:
- The Banni Grassland is primarily a grassland ecosystem with a combination of open grasslands, shrublands, and sparse trees. The ecosystem is adapted to the semi-arid conditions of the region, with vegetation and wildlife that can withstand extreme temperatures and seasonal variations in water availability
- Monsoon Influence: The ecosystem experiences significant changes with the arrival of the monsoon season. During this period, seasonal water bodies and wetlands form, providing temporary water sources that support a range of wildlife and plant growth.
- Dry Periods: During the dry season, the landscape becomes more arid, and many of the seasonal water bodies dry up. Vegetation growth slows down, and wildlife migrates or adapts to the harsher conditions
- Fauna: The reserve is home to several species of wildlife, including the Asiatic Wild Ass (Equus hemionus), which is a key species for the area. Other notable wildlife includes various bird species, such as flamingos, and smaller mammals adapted to grassland habitats.
Wildlife:
- Fauna: The reserve is home to several species of wildlife, including the Asiatic Wild Ass (Equus hemionus), which is a key species for the area. Other notable wildlife includes various bird species, such as flamingos, and smaller mammals adapted to grassland habitats.
- Adaptations: Many species have adapted to the extreme heat and scarcity of water, making the ecosystem resilient but also vulnerable to changes in climate and human activities.
Shrubs:
- Common Shrubs: The reserve features a range of shrub species, including Prosopis juliflora (mesquite), which has been introduced to the area. Other native shrubs include Acacia nilotica and Ziziphus mauritiana.
- Ecological Role: Shrubs provide additional habitat and food sources for wildlife, and they help stabilize the soil in the grassland ecosystem.
5.Threats Related to Banni Grassland Reserve
The Banni Grassland Reserve faces several threats that impact its ecological balance and biodiversity.
Here are some of the primary threats:
- Overgrazing by livestock, primarily due to traditional pastoral practices, can lead to the degradation of grasslands. This can reduce the density and diversity of plant species, leading to soil erosion and loss of habitat for wildlife
- Balancing the needs of pastoral communities with conservation goals is a significant challenge. Overgrazing can also impact the growth of key grass species and alter the ecosystem dynamics.
- The introduction of non-native plant species, such as Prosopis juliflora (mesquite), can outcompete native vegetation. Invasive species can alter soil properties, reduce biodiversity, and disrupt local ecological processes
- Efforts are needed to manage and control invasive species to protect native flora and maintain the ecological balance of the grassland
- Climate change can exacerbate existing threats by altering rainfall patterns, increasing temperatures, and affecting the seasonal dynamics of the grassland. These changes can lead to reduced water availability, increased droughts, and shifts in vegetation types
- The ecosystem may need to adapt to changing conditions, but rapid climate change can overwhelm the resilience of the grassland
- Expansion of agriculture, industrial activities, or infrastructure development can lead to habitat loss and fragmentation. These changes can reduce the area available for grazing and disrupt the natural processes of the grassland
- Finding a balance between development and conservation is essential to protect the grassland while supporting local livelihoods
- The Banni Grassland is highly dependent on seasonal rainfall and temporary water bodies. Reduced rainfall or altered precipitation patterns can lead to water scarcity, impacting both vegetation and wildlife
- Ensuring sustainable water management practices and protecting seasonal wetlands are crucial for maintaining the grassland's ecological health
- High soil salinity and alkalinity can be exacerbated by poor land management practices, leading to further degradation of the grassland. This can affect the growth of native plants and reduce the overall productivity of the ecosystem
- Soil conservation and restoration efforts are needed to address issues of salinity and prevent further degradation
- As human activities expand, conflicts between wildlife and local communities can increase. For example, wildlife may damage crops or compete with livestock for resources, leading to tensions and potentially harmful interactions
- Effective management strategies and community engagement are needed to mitigate conflicts and promote coexistence between humans and wildlife
6. Way Forward
Banni Grassland Reserve, with its unique and diverse ecosystem, faces several significant threats that impact its ecological balance and biodiversity. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted and integrated approach that combines sustainable management practices, community engagement, and proactive conservation strategies
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For Prelims: Grasslands, Banni grasslands
For Mains: GS III - Environment & ecology
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Source: The Hindu
CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (CPI)
1. Context
The price momentum in the food category in the CPI in July was much higher than long period averages. This has also propelled CPI headline momentum above trend. The vegetable price shocks that started in June 2024 continued unabated in July
2. Consumer Price Index
- The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a measure of the change in prices of a basket of goods and services that are commonly purchased by consumers. It is the most commonly used measure of inflation.
- The CPI is calculated by comparing the prices of the goods and services in the basket in a particular period to those of the same in a base period.
- The base period is usually the previous year's corresponding period. The difference in prices is expressed as a percentage, and this is the CPI inflation rate.
- The CPI is calculated for eight different categories of goods and services Food and beverages, Housing, Clothing and footwear, Transport, Health, Education, Communication, Recreation and Miscellaneous goods and services.
- The weights of each category in the CPI are determined by the expenditure patterns of urban households. For example, food and beverages have the highest weight in the CPI, followed by housing and transport.
- The CPI inflation rate is an important indicator of the cost of living.
- It is used by the government to set monetary policy and by businesses to make pricing decisions.
3. Wholesale Price Index
- The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) is a measure of the change in prices of goods and services at the wholesale level.
- It is calculated by comparing the prices of a basket of goods and services in a particular period to those of the same in a base period.
- The base period is usually the previous year's corresponding period. The difference in prices is expressed as a percentage, and this is the WPI inflation rate.
- The WPI is calculated for 67 groups of commodities, which are further divided into 225 subgroups.
- The weights of each group and subgroup in the WPI are determined by the value of the goods and services produced in each group and subgroup.
- The WPI inflation rate is an important indicator of inflation at the wholesale level.
- It is used by businesses to make pricing decisions and by the government to set monetary policy.
4. Findings of the Report
4.1. Food inflation
- Food inflation in India remained high in August, at 9.94%. This was driven by rising prices of essential food items, such as cereals, pulses, vegetables, and oils.
- Eleven of the 12 items on the heavyweight food and beverages group of the CPI logged price increases, with oils and fats, the sole item logging a year-on-year decline in prices, posting its first sequential increase in nine months.
- Vegetables provided some relief, with tomatoes leading an appreciable month-on-month deflation of 5.88% in the 19-member basket.
- However, the cooking staples of potatoes and onions were among the seven items that continued to log sequential inflation (2.3% and 12.3%, respectively).
4.2. Monsoon deficit and rising crude oil prices
- The near-term inflation outlook is also made more uncertain by other factors, including a distinct deficit in monsoon rainfall.
- Besides the overall 10% shortfall, sharp regional and temporal anomalies in rain distribution have impacted either the sowing or the quality of produce of several farm items.
- Kharif's sowing of pulses had, as of September 8, recorded an 8.6% shortfall compared with the year-earlier period.
- Another inflation driver, crude oil, has also seen a steady rise in prices as the output cuts by major oil producers of the OPEC+ grouping start to bite.
- The price of India's crude basket had, as of September 12, climbed 7.2% from the average in August to $92.65/barrel, according to official data.
4.3. RBI measures to control inflation
- For the RBI, the latest inflation data further roils its interest rate calculus.
- Unless CPI inflation decelerates by an incredible 250 basis points in September to a 4.33% pace, price gains are certain to substantially overshoot the monetary authority's 6.2% forecast for the July-September quarter, leaving it with few real options to achieve its medium-term price stability goal of 4% inflation.
- As the RBI has been at pains to stress, failure to anchor inflation expectations risks hurting growth.
5. About the sticky Consumer Price Index (CPI)
- The sticky Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a subset of the CPI that includes goods and services that change prices relatively infrequently.
- These goods and services are thought to incorporate expectations about future inflation to a greater degree than prices that change more frequently.
- Some of the items included in the sticky CPI are Rent, Housing costs, Utilities, Education, Healthcare, Transportation, Household furnishings and appliances, Personal insurance, Recreation, and Miscellaneous goods and services.
- The sticky CPI is often used by economists to measure inflation expectations.
- This is because prices of sticky goods and services are less likely to be affected by short-term changes in supply and demand, and are therefore more likely to reflect changes in inflation expectations.
- The sticky CPI is also used by central banks to set monetary policy.
- This is because the central bank wants to make sure that inflation expectations are anchored at a low level.
- If inflation expectations start to rise, the central bank may raise interest rates to bring them back down.
6. How India’s retail inflation is measured?
- India's retail inflation is measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), a basket of goods and services commonly purchased by urban households.
- The CPI is calculated by the National Statistical Office (NSO) every month.
- The CPI is calculated by comparing the prices of the goods and services in the basket in a particular month to those of the same in a base month.
- The base month is usually the previous year's corresponding month. The difference in prices is expressed as a percentage, and this is the CPI inflation rate.
- The CPI is calculated for eight different categories of goods and services, Food and beverages, Housing, Clothing and footwear, Transport, Health, Education, Communication, Recreation and Miscellaneous goods and services.
- The weights of each category in the CPI are determined by the expenditure patterns of urban households. For example, food and beverages have the highest weight in the CPI, followed by housing and transport.
- The CPI inflation rate is an important indicator of the cost of living in India.
- It is used by the government to set monetary policy and by businesses to make pricing decisions.
7. Calculation of Inflation
- Inflation is the rate at which the prices of goods and services increase over time.
- It is calculated by comparing the prices of a basket of goods and services in a particular period to the prices of the same basket of goods and services in a base period.
- The base period is usually the previous year's corresponding period. The difference in prices is expressed as a percentage, and this is the inflation rate.
There are two main ways to calculate inflation
1. Consumer Price Index (CPI): The CPI is a measure of the change in prices of a basket of goods and services that are commonly purchased by consumers. It is the most commonly used measure of inflation.
The CPI is calculated by the following formula:
CPI = (Cost of a basket of goods and services in current period / Cost of a basket of goods and services in base period) * 100
2. Producer Price Index (PPI): The PPI is a measure of the change in prices of goods and services that are produced by businesses. It is used to track inflation at the wholesale level.
The PPI is calculated by the following formula:
PPI = (Cost of a basket of goods and services at the wholesale level in the current period / Cost of a basket of goods and services at the wholesale level in the base period) * 100
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For Prelims: Consumer Price Index, Wholesale Price Index, Inflation, retail inflation, Producer Pirce Index, National Statistical Office, OPEC+, Crude oil, Kharif season, Monsoon,
For Mains:
1. Analyse the factors contributing to high food inflation in India in recent months. Discuss the impact of high food inflation on the Indian economy and suggest measures to mitigate it. (250 words)
2. Explain the concept of sticky inflation. What are the various factors that contribute to sticky inflation? Discuss the implications of sticky inflation for the Indian economy. (250 words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. With reference to inflation in India, which of the following statements is correct? (UPSC 2015)
A. Controlling the inflation in India is the responsibility of the Government of India only
B. The Reserve Bank of India has no role in controlling the inflation
C. Decreased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
D. Increased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
Answer: C
2. With reference to India, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2010)
1. The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) in India is available on a monthly basis only.
2. As compared to Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (CPI(IW)), the WPI gives less weight to food articles.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C
3. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2020)
1. The weightage of food in Consumer Price Index (CPI) is higher than that in Wholesale Price Index (WPI).
2. The WPI does not capture changes in the prices of services, which CPI does.
3. Reserve Bank of India has now adopted WPI as its key measure of inflation and to decide on changing the key policy rates.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 only C. 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
4. India has experienced persistent and high food inflation in the recent past. What could be the reasons? (UPSC 2011)
1. Due to a gradual switchover to the cultivation of commercial crops, the area under the cultivation of food grains has steadily decreased in the last five years by about 30.
2. As a consequence of increasing incomes, the consumption patterns of the people have undergone a significant change.
3. The food supply chain has structural constraints.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
5. The Public Distribution System, which evolved as a system of management of food and distribution of food grains, was relaunched as _______ Public Distribution System in 1997. (SSC JE EE 2021)
A. Evolved B. Transformed C. Tested D. Targeted
Answer: D
6. Under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana, up to what quantity of rice and wheat can be purchased at a subsidised cost? (FCI AG III 2023)
A. 35 kg B. 40 kg C. 30 kg D. 25 kg E. 50 kg
Answer: A
7. As per the the National Statistical Office (NSO) report released on 7 January 2022, India's Gross domestic product (GDP) is expected to grow at ___________ per cent (in first advance estimates) in the fiscal year 2021-22? (ESIC UDC 2022)
A. 17.6 per cent B. 9.5 per cent C. 11 per cent D. 9.2 per cent E. None of the above
Answer: D
8. The main emphasis of OPEC (Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) is on which of the following? (UKPSC 2016)
A. The production of petroleum
B. Control over prices of petroleum
C. Both (a) and (b)
D. None of the above
Answer: C
9. In the context of global oil prices, "Brent crude oil" is frequently referred to in the news. What does this term imply? (UPSC 2011)
1. It is a major classification of crude oil.
2. It is sourced from the North Sea.
3. It does not contain sulfur.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 2 only B. 1 and 2 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
10. The term 'West Texas Intermediate', sometimes found in news, refers to a grade of (UPSC 2020)
A. Crude oil B. Bullion C. Rare earth elements D. Uranium
Answer: C
11. With reference to the cultivation of Kharif crops in India in the last five years, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2019)
1. Area under rice cultivation is the highest.
2. Area under the cultivation of jowar is more than that of oilseeds.
3. Area of cotton cultivation is more than that of sugarcane.
4. Area under sugarcane cultivation has steadily decreased.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only B. 2, 3 and 4 only C. 2 and 4 only D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: A
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Source: The Hindu
POLITICAL WOMEN REPRESENTATION
1. Context
A number of recent incidents, including the rape and murder of a young woman at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital last week, brought renewed attention to women’s rights issues in India. The question of women’s rights, including their right to equality, liberty and security, has been a longstanding issue
2. What about women representatives in independent India?
- India, as a sovereign republic, granted all women the right to vote starting from the first general elections in 1952.
- Despite this constitutional right, women's representation in the Lok Sabha and State legislative assemblies has been quite limited.
- Up until 2004, the proportion of women MPs in the Lok Sabha hovered between 5% and 10%. This figure increased slightly to 12% in 2014 and currently stands at 14% in the 18th Lok Sabha. Representation in State Legislative Assemblies is even lower, with a national average of around 9%.
- The 73rd and 74th Constitutional amendments in 1992/1993 established a one-third reservation for women in panchayats and municipalities. However, efforts between 1996 and 2008 to extend similar reservations to the Lok Sabha and assemblies were unsuccessful
3. Worldwide Scenario
- Women's representation in parliament varies across different democracies, and enhancing this representation remains a persistent challenge since women make up half the population in all countries.
- To ensure higher representation of women, two primary methods are used globally: (a) voluntary or legally mandated quotas for candidates within political parties and (b) reserved seats in parliament through quotas.
- Quotas within political parties offer voters a more democratic choice and provide flexibility for parties in selecting women candidates. Critics of reserved parliamentary quotas for women argue that it might undermine the perception of merit-based competition.
- Additionally, since reserved seats for women would be rotated after each delimitation, this might decrease the motivation for MPs to diligently serve their constituencies.
- The accompanying table shows a snapshot of women's representation in various democracies worldwide.
- It is observed that countries like Bangladesh and Pakistan, which have parliamentary quotas, tend to perform worse in terms of women's representation compared to countries with political party quotas
4.106th Amendment
- As of April 2024, India is ranked 143rd in the 'Monthly Ranking of Women in National Parliaments' by the Inter-Parliamentary Union, an international organization for national parliaments.
- The Trinamool Congress has the highest proportion of women MPs in the current Lok Sabha at 38%. Both the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and the main opposition Congress party have approximately 13% women MPs each. Naam Tamilar Katchi, a state party in Tamil Nadu, has implemented a voluntary quota of 50% for women candidates in the last three general elections.
- Despite these efforts, voluntary or legislated quotas within political parties are unlikely to achieve the desired representation in India. Therefore, through the 106th Constitutional Amendment in September 2023, Parliament has provided for a one-third reservation of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and State legislative assemblies.
- This aims to ensure fair representation of women in legislatures, enhancing gender sensitivity in parliamentary processes and legislation, and potentially increasing the number of women ministers at both the central and state levels.
- This reservation will take effect following the delimitation exercise based on the first Census conducted after the act's commencement. Consequently, the overdue Census from 2021 should be conducted without further delay to implement this reservation starting with the general elections in 2029
5.Way Forward
While India has made significant strides in granting women the right to vote and introducing measures to increase their representation in political institutions, much remains to be done to achieve true gender parity. The introduction of the 106th Constitutional Amendment, which reserves one-third of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and State legislative assemblies, marks a crucial step forward. However, the successful implementation of this policy hinges on the timely completion of the overdue Census. This reservation is not just about numbers; it is about ensuring that women's voices and perspectives are adequately represented in legislative processes, thereby fostering more inclusive and gender-sensitive governance. As India moves towards the 2029 general elections, it is imperative that these efforts are sustained and strengthened to build a more equitable and representative democracy
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For Prelims: Census, 106th Amendment Act, Article 360
For Mains: GS II- Women Political representation in India and related challenges
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Previous Year Questions
Prelims
1. Reservation for women in India is available in (UPTET 2019)
A. Lok Sabha B. Cabinet C. Vidhan Sabha D. Panchayati Raj Institutions
Answer: D
2. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022)
1. A bill amending the Constitution requires a prior recommendation of the President of India. 2. When a Constitution Amendment Bill is presented to the President of India, it is obligatory for the President of India to give his/her assent.
3. A Constitution Amendment Bill must be passed by both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha by a special majority and there is no provision for joint sitting.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
3. The Committee on the status of women was headed by (Telangana Group 1 2016)
A. Mrinal Gore B. Mamatha Benerjee C. Mary John D. Vina Mazumdar
Answer: D
4. Two of the schemes launched by the Government of India for Women’s development are Swadhar and Swayam Siddha. As regards the difference between them, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2010) 1. Swayam Siddha is meant for those in difficult circumstances such as women survivors of natural disasters or terrorism, women prisoners released from jails, mentally challenged women etc., whereas Swadhar is meant for holistic empowerment of women through Self Help Groups.
2. Swayam Siddha is implemented through Local Self Government bodies or reputed Voluntary Organizations whereas Swadhar is implemented through the ICDS units set up in the states.
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 5. The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) was formed by insertion of Article ______ in the Constitution of India. (SSC CGL 2020) A. 328B B. 338A C. 338B D. 328A Answer: C 6. Consider the following statements: The Parliamentary Committee on Public Accounts (UPSC 2013) 1. consists of not more than 25 members of the Lok Sabha.
2. scrutinizes appropriation and finance accounts of the Government.
3. examines the report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India.
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: B 7. With reference to the Parliament of India, which of the following Parliamentary Committees scrutinizes and reports to the House whether the powers to make regulations, rules, sub-rules, by-laws, etc. conferred by the Constitution or delegated by the Parliament are being properly exercised by the Executive within the scope of such delegation? (UPSC 2018) A.Committee on Government Assurances
B. Committee on Subordinate Legislation
C. Rules Committee
D. Business Advisory Committee
Answer: B 8. The historic 73rd and 74th amendment act relates to (Karnataka PC 2020) A. Local Self Government
B.Anti-Defection
C. Emergency Provisions
D. Parliamentary powers to amend the constitution
Answer: A 9. Which of the following is/are true regarding Urban Local Bodies in India? (UPSC CAPF 2014) 1. The Constitution's 74th Amendment Act envisages three types of urban local bodies, namely Nagar Panchayat, Municipal Council, and Municipal Corporation. 2. Municipal Corporations are established in cities with a population greater than 1 million.
3. Bombay and Calcutta Corporations were the first Municipal Corporations that were established during British time.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A.1 and 2 only B. 2 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A 10. Consider the following statements : (UPSC 2021)
1. The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919 recommended granting voting rights to all women above the age of 21.
2. The Government of India Act of 1935 gave women reserved seats in the legislature.
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: B
Mains 1. “Empowering women is the key to control population growth”. Discuss. (UPSC 2019) 2. Discuss the positive and negative effects of globalization on women in India? (UPSC 2015) 3. Male membership needs to be encouraged in order to make women’s organization free from gender bias. Comment. (UPSC 2013) |
Source: The Hindu
SUPER BLUE MOON
1. Context
For the second year in a row, Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi which is celebrated on the full moon day (that is on Purnima in the month of Shravan), is marked by the sighting of a ‘super blue moon’.
2. What is a Super moon?
- The orbit of the moon around the earth is not circular; it is elliptical, that is, an elongated or stretched-out circle. It takes the moon 27.3 days to orbit the earth
- It is 29.5 days from new moon to new moon, though. This is because while the moon is orbiting the earth, both the earth and the moon are also moving around the sun and it takes additional time for the sun to light up the moon in the same way as it does at the beginning of every revolution around the earth
- The new moon is the opposite of the full moon it is the darkest part of the moon’s invisible phase, when its illuminated side is facing away from the earth
- The point closest to earth in the moon’s elliptical orbit is called perigee, and the point that is farthest is called apogee.
- A super moon happens when the moon is passing through or is close to its perigee, and is also a full moon
- A full moon occurs when the moon is directly opposite the sun (as seen from earth), and therefore, has its entire day side lit up.
- The full moon appears as a brilliant circle in the sky that rises around sunset and sets around sunrise.
- The moon appears ‘full’ not just on Purnima, but also on the night before and after the full moon night
3. What is a Blue moon?
- The term "blue moon" has two meanings. It can refer to a second full moon in a single calendar month, which is a rare occurrence. It can also refer to the third full moon in a season that has four full moons, which happens about every 2.7 years
- The second definition is the more common one, and it is the one that is used in the phrase "once in a blue moon". This phrase means that something happens very rarely.
- The moon does not actually turn blue during a blue moon. The name comes from the way that the Old English word "belewe" (meaning "betrayer") was sometimes used to refer to a second full moon in a month.
- This is because the second full moon would "betray" the farmers who were using the lunar cycle to plant their crops
- A true blue moon, when the moon actually appears blue, is a very rare occurrence. It can happen when the moon passes through dust particles from a volcanic eruption or forest fire.
- The dust particles scatter red light, making the moon appear blue.
- The next blue moon will occur on August 19, 2024. It will be a seasonal blue moon, which means that it will be the third full moon in the summer season
3.1. Reasons for the blue colour
- Sometimes, smoke or dust in the air can scatter red wavelengths of light, as a result of which the moon may, in certain places, appear more blue than usual. But this has nothing to do with the name “blue” moon
- Speaking of colours, you may have noticed that the moon appears more yellow/ orange when it is lower in the sky (closer to the horizon)
- This is because moonlight travels for longer through the atmosphere at this stage, and along the way, more of the shorter, bluer wavelengths of light are scattered, leaving more of the longer, redder wavelengths.
- The NASA explainer points out that dust or pollution can end up deepening the reddish colour of the moon
3.2. Size of the blue moon
- According to NASA, a full moon at perigee (super moon) is about 14% bigger and 30% brighter than a full moon at apogee (called a “micro moon”).
- However, it is unlikely the difference in size will be noticeable by most people.
- The moon could appear somewhat brighter, though but whether you are able to make out the difference will depend on factors such as the so-called ‘Moon illusion’, and how cloudy or polluted it is at your location
4. Way forward
A full moon occurs when the moon is directly opposite the sun (as seen from earth), and therefore, has its entire day side lit up. The full moon appears as a brilliant circle in the sky that rises around sunset and sets around sunrise. The moon appears ‘full’ not just on Purnima, but also on the night before and after the full moon night
