NATIONAL TESTING AGENCY (NTA)
1. Context
The National Testing Agency (NTA) is at the centre of controversy over alleged irregularities in competitive exams conducted by it. Amid the raging row over the recently conducted NEET-UG and UGC-NET, the agency saw a change of guards last week and a high-level panel is reviewing its functioning
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
PM AWAS YOJANA
1. Context
For the first time since the beginning of the flagship rural housing scheme — Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin — in 2016, the Union Rural Development Ministry is allowing “self-survey” for beneficiaries. For the second phase of the PMAY-G programme
2. PM Awas Yojana
- Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) is a flagship housing scheme launched by the Government of India with the aim of providing affordable housing to the urban and rural poor.
- It was announced on June 25, 2015, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of his vision of "Housing for All" by the year 2022.
- The scheme is designed to address the housing shortage in the country and improve the living conditions of the economically weaker sections (EWS), low-income groups (LIG), and middle-income groups (MIG).
3. Key Objectives of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
- Affordable Housing: PMAY focuses on providing affordable housing units with basic amenities at an affordable cost to eligible beneficiaries.
- Inclusivity: The scheme aims to include all sections of society, especially those who are economically disadvantaged and marginalized, in the process of nation-building.
- Empowerment: By providing housing to beneficiaries, the scheme aims to enhance their quality of life, promote health and sanitation, and empower them economically and socially.
- Urban and Rural Coverage: PMAY aims to cover both urban and rural areas, recognizing the need for housing in both sectors.
- Women Empowerment: The scheme prioritizes the allocation of housing units in the name of the female head of the household, which helps in women's empowerment and ensures greater financial security.
4. The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana is implemented in three major components:
- Credit-Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS): Under this component, eligible beneficiaries from the EWS, LIG, and MIG sections can avail of interest subsidies on home loans. The amount of subsidy depends on the income category, and it helps reduce the effective interest rate on the home loan, making it more affordable for the beneficiaries.
- Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP): This component targets the development of affordable housing projects in partnership with various public and private agencies. The government provides financial assistance to the partnering agencies to construct these houses.
- Beneficiary-led Construction (BLC): This component empowers the eligible beneficiaries to construct or enhance their houses on their own with the help of financial assistance provided by the government.
5. Aim of the scheme
- To provide a pucca house with basic amenities to all rural families, who are homeless or living in kutcha or dilapidated houses by the end of March 2022.
- To help rural people Below the Poverty Line (BPL) in the construction of dwelling units and upgradation of existing unserviceable kutcha houses by providing assistance in the form of a full grant.
- Beneficiaries: People belonging to SCs/STs, freed bonded laborers and non-SC/ST categories, widows or next-of-kin of defense personnel killed in action, ex-servicemen and retired members of the paramilitary forces, disabled persons, and minorities.
- Selection of Beneficiaries: Through a three-stage validation - Socio-Economic Caste Census 2011, Gram Sabha, and geo-tagging.
- Cost Sharing: The cost of unit assistance is shared between Central and State Governments in the ratio of 60:40 in plain areas and 90:10 for North Eastern and hilly states.
6. Performance of the Scheme:
- Only 55% of the construction target has been completed.
- Of the 2.28 crore houses to be built for the rural poor, less than 1.27 crore had been built by January 2021.
- Money has been sanctioned to almost 85% of beneficiaries.
- This scheme has helped in employment generation. Many states provided employment to their migrant laborers during the lockdown.
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For Prelims: Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Economically weaker sections (EWS), low-income groups (LIG), middle-income groups (MIG), Below Poverty Line (BPL), Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS), Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP), and Beneficiary-Led Construction (BLC).
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Previous year Question1. Time span of 'Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana' is (UPPSC Civil Service 2016)
A. 2014 - 2021
B. 2014 - 2024
C. 2015 - 2022
D. 2015 - 2025
Answer: C
2. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban)-PMAY (U)’s mission is to achieve the goal of Housing for All in urban areas by: (SSC CHSL 2020)
A. 2022
B. 2023
C. 2021
D. 2020
Answer: A
3. Which of the following statement(s) regarding the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) is/are true? (RBI Grade B 28 May 2022)
(i) The Government has approved the project for the construction of over 60,000 houses under the scheme in the next 5 years.
(ii) These 60,000 houses will be constructed across Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, and Rajasthan.
(iii) The total number of sanctioned houses under the scheme stands at 114.07 lahks.
A. Only (ii)
B. Both (i) and (ii)
C. Both (i) and (iii)
D. Both (ii) and (iii)
E. All (i), (ii) and (iii)
Answer: E
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Source: The Indian Express
GLACIAL LAKE OUTBURST FLOOD (GLOF)
1. Context
The Teesta Valley has only six months before the 2025 monsoon aggravates the damage wrought by the disastrous glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in October 2023, two community-based green Himalayan organisations have warned the government.
2. About glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF)
- A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) is a type of outburst flood caused by the failure of a dam containing a glacial lake.
- An event similar to a GLOF, where a body of water contained by a glacier melts or overflows the glacier, is called a jokulhlaup.
- The dam can consist of glacier ice or a terminal moraine. Failure can happen due to erosion, a buildup of water pressure, an avalanche of rock or heavy snow, an earthquake or cryoseism, volcanic eruptions under the ice, or massive displacement of water in a glacial lake when a large portion of an adjacent glacier collapses into it.
3. About flash flooding
- Flash flooding is a rapid flooding of low-lying areas: washes, rivers, dry lakes and depressions.
- It may be caused by heavy rain associated with a severe thunderstorm, hurricane, or tropical storm, or by meltwater from ice or snow flowing over ice sheets or snowfields.
- Flash floods may also occur after the collapse of a natural ice or debris dam, or a human structure such as a man-made dam, as occurred before the Johnstown Flood of 1889.
- Flash floods are distinguished from regular floods by having a timescale of fewer than six hours between rainfall and the onset of flooding.
3.1. The reason for flash floods
There are several reasons why flash floods can occur, but the most common cause is heavy rainfall. When rain falls too quickly for the ground to absorb it, the water can run off and cause flooding. Flash floods can also be caused by:
- Thunderstorms can produce heavy rainfall, especially slow-moving or stationary thunderstorms.
- Hurricanes and tropical storms can produce heavy rainfall and storm surge, which can lead to flash flooding.
- If a dam or levee fails, it can release a large amount of water that can cause flash flooding downstream.
- Ice jams can form when large chunks of ice break off from a glacier or river and jam together. This can block the flow of water and cause flooding upstream.
- Landslides can block rivers and streams, causing flash flooding downstream.
- Vegetation helps slow the water flow and allows it to infiltrate the ground more easily. Areas with little or no vegetation are more likely to experience flash flooding.
- Urban areas are more likely to experience flash flooding than rural areas. This is because pavement and other impervious surfaces prevent water from infiltrating the ground.
4. How did South Lhonak Lake become susceptible to GLOF?
In 2021, a study published in the journal Geomorphology warned that the lake was at risk of a catastrophic GLOF. The study also found that the lake's water volume had increased by 74% since 1962. South Lhonak Lake in Sikkim, India, has become susceptible to GLOF due to several factors, including:
- Climate change is causing glaciers in the Himalayas to melt at an accelerated rate. This is leading to the formation of new glacial lakes and the expansion of existing ones, such as South Lhonak Lake.
- South Lhonak Lake is located in a steep-sided valley with a narrow outlet. This makes it difficult for water to drain from the lake, increasing the risk of a GLOF.
- South Lhonak Lake is dammed by a moraine, which is a pile of loose rocks and debris.
- Moraines are naturally unstable and can be easily breached by heavy rainfall, earthquakes, or other triggers.
- South Lhonak Lake is a relatively deep lake, with a maximum depth of over 100 meters.
- This means that a large volume of water could be released quickly if the lake dam were to breach.
- South Lhonak Lake is also located in a seismically active region. Earthquakes can destabilize the moraine dam and trigger a GLOF.
Image Source: Research Gate
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For Prelims: South Lhonak Lake, Flash Flooding, Glaciers, Glacial Lake Outburst Flood, Sikkam, Climate Change, Teesta River,
For Mains:
1. Describe the environmental and socio-economic impacts of flash floods. How can early warning systems and disaster preparedness help mitigate the risks associated with flash floods? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. On the planet earth, most of the freshwater exists as ice caps and glaciers. Out of the remaining freshwater, the largest proportion (UPSC 2013) (a) is found in the atmosphere as moisture and clouds (b) is found in freshwater lakes and rivers (c) exists as groundwater (d) exists as soil moisture Answer: C 2. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC CSE 2019)
Glacier River
1. Bandarpunch Yamuna
2. Bara Shigri Chenab
3. Milam Mandakini
4. Siachen Nubra
5. Zemu Manas
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
A. 1, 2 and 4 B. 1, 3 and 4 C. 2 and 5 D. 3 and 5
Answer: A
3. Consider the following features related to a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF): (UGC NET Geography 2019)
a. Involves sudden release of meltwater
b. Failure of moraine and ice dam
c. Large downstream discharge causing floods
d. Rapid event casting for few seconds
Select the correct answer from the options given below:
A. (a) and (b) are correct
B. (c) and (d) are correct
C. (a), (b) and (c) are correct
D. (b), (c) and (d) are correct
Answer: C
4. With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2016)
1. The Agreement was signed by all the member countries of the UN and it will go into effect in 2017
2. The Agreement aims to limit greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in average global temperature by the end of this century does not exceed 2°C or even 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
3. Developed countries acknowledged their historical responsibility in global warming and committed to donate $ 1000 billion a year from 2020 to help developing countries to cope with climate change.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 3 only B. 2 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
5. A new type of El Nino called El Nino Modoki appeared in the news. In this context, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2010)
1. Normal El Nino forms in the Central Pacific ocean whereas El Nino Modoki forms in the Eastern Pacific ocean.
2. Normal El Nino results in diminished hurricanes in the Atlantic ocean but El Nino Modoki results in a greater number of hurricanes with greater frequency.
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
6. La Nina is suspected to have caused recent floods in Australia. How is La Nina different from El Nino? (UPSC 2011)
1. La Nina is characterized by unusually cold ocean temperature in the equatorial Indian Ocean whereas El Nino is characterized by unusually warm ocean temperature in the equatorial Pacific Ocean.
2. El Nino has an adverse effect on the south-west monsoon of India, but La Nina has no effect on the monsoon climate.
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
7. Consider the following statements: (MPSC 2017)
a. La Nina is a little girl.
b. During the time of La Nina cold water in the ocean rises to the surface.
c. La Nina strengthens the Indian monsoon.
d. During the time of El Nino, trade winds weaken, and warm water moves east in the ocean. Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. Only a and b B. a, b and c C. Only b and c D. All of the above
Answer: D
8. With reference to Ocean Mean Temperature (OMT), which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2020)
1. OMT is measured up to a depth of 26°C isotherm which is 129 meters in the south-western Indian Ocean during January-March.
2. OMT collected during January-March can be used in assessing whether the amount of rainfall in monsoon will be less or more than a certain long-term mean.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B
9. With reference to 'Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)' sometimes mentioned in the news while forecasting Indian monsoon which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2017)
1. IOD phenomenon is characterised by a difference in sea surface temperature between tropical Western Indian Ocean and tropical Eastern Pacific Ocean.
2. An IOD phenomenon can influence an EI Nino's impact on the monsoon.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. Both 1 and 2 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B
10. "EL Nino" refers to a temperature anomaly in the ________ ocean. (NTPC 2017)
A. Indian B. Pacific C. Southern D. Atlantic
Answer: B
11. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change recently published the draft Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, in 2020. Which of the following statements is correct about EIA? (Punjab Civil Service 2020)
1. It predicts the effect of a proposed industrial/infrastructural project on the environment.
2. It prevents the proposed activity/project from being approved without proper oversight or taking adverse consequences into account.
3. It compares various alternatives for a project and seeks to identify the one which represents the best combination of economic and environmental costs and benefits.
4. As per the new notification, Coal and non-Coal mineral prospecting and solar photovoltaic projects do not need prior environmental clearance.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. Only 1 and 2
B. Only 2, 3 and 4
C. Only 1, 2 and 3
D. Only 1, 2 and 4
Answer: D
12. In the context of India’s preparation for Climate -Smart Agriculture, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2021)
1. The ‘Climate-Smart Village’ approach in India is part of a project led by the Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS), an international research program.
2. The project of CCAFS is carried out under the Consultative Group on International Agricultural (CGIAR) headquartered in France.
3. The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) in India is one of the CGIAR’s research centers.
Which of the statements given above is correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D
13. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017)
1. In India, the Himalayas are spread over five States only.
2. Western Ghats are spread over five States only.
3. Pulicat Lake is spread over two States only.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only B. 3 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1 and 3 only
Answer: B
14. Which of the following statements in respect of landslides are correct? (NDA 2022) 1. These occur only on gentle slopes during rain.
2. They generally occur in clay-rich soil.
3. Earthquakes trigger landslides.
Select the correct answer using the code given below. A. 1 and 2 B. 2 and 3 C. 1 and 3 D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: B 15. With reference to River Teesta, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017)
1. The source of river Teesta is the same as that of Brahmaputra but it flows through Sikkim.
2. River Rangeet originates in Sikkim and it is a tributary of river Teesta.
3. River Teesta flows into the Bay of Bengal on the border of India and Bangladesh.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only B. 2 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B 16. Teesta River is the tributary of _______. (Kerala PSC Secretariat Assistant 2018) A. Ganga B. Yamuna C. Brahmaputra D. Narmada Answer: C Mains 1.Describe the various causes and the effects of landslides. Mention the important components of the National Landslide Risk Management Strategy. (2021, GS3)
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Source: indianexpress
GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOOD
1.Context
The genetically modified (GM) crops provide a way out. In the 1990s, researchers found a way to modify a plant’s genome and make specific changes that prevented insects from eating them. In the Bt cotton grown in India and Bt brinjal in Bangladesh, scientists added a gene from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis to the plants’ genomes, making them produce a toxin that kills some insects.
2.What is GM Food?
- Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are organisms that have altered DNA to change their properties
- Genetically modified crops can improve yield, build resistances to pests, frost or drought, or add nutrients
- Crops can also be modified to reduce carbon emissions and boost the sustainability of food production
- While widespread, GM crop production uses only about 10% of the land non-GM crop production uses.
- GM is nothing more than a breeding technique, much like crossing that we’ve been doing for thousands of years. But it’s more sophisticated, so we can make very precise changes, very rapidly
- GMOs were first introduced in the US in 1994, with modified tomato plants that ripened more slowly to prolong their shelf life
- Since then, a wide range of crops, such as soybeans, wheat and rice have been approved for agricultural use, along with GM bacteria grown to produce large amounts of protein
- Scientists in India have also developed strains of Sub-1 rice, which are much more resistant to flooding
- Flooding is a major issue in rice-growing regions of northern India and Bangladesh, set to become worse as the climate crises develops, and now 6 million farmers in the region are using Sub-1 rice to safeguard their crops against inundation
- Golden rice, on the other hand, is a GM strain modified to contain vitamin A, designed to combat the shortage of dietary vitamin A in parts of Asia and Africa
2.1. Disease resistance
Gene editing technology has also helped save crop production from blights
In the late 20th century, the papaya ringspot virus almost wiped-out papaya crops in Hawaii, but a local scientist developed a modified papaya that was resistant to the virus. Seeds were distributed to farmers, saving papaya production a decade later
Currently there’s no real solution except for massive fungicide applications
No one wants that, so we worked on adding genes or DNA changes from distantly related plants to achieve better resistances to the fungus
3. GM Controversy
- Many people find the idea of GM foods hard to swallow — a 2020 opinion poll found 50% of people in 20 surveyed countries perceived GM foods as unsafe
- When GM crops were first developed 30 years ago, uncertainty and concerns about safety were shared by scientists, but things are different now
- Scientists say that "GM food is completely safe to eat, and 30 years of information showing it’s not dangerous for the environment"
- There are concerns big corporate interests from companies like Monsanto, which promote more pesticides and monocultures and wrong forms of agriculture and seeds sold to farmers and expensive prices
4. GM Food Industry
- GM agriculture is moving on from the Monsanto big-dog corporate model
- GM products are increasingly focused on social and public enterprise and the industry is looking at more local solutions that help smallholder farmers in developing countries
- Regulation and licensing are a huge part of this. Many, including Replanet, strongly advocate for open-source seeds and GM technologies
- You can develop GMOs without patents developed by humanitarian public organizations
- It’s about creating a licensing landscape that empowers local farmers to adapt to the demands of sustainable agriculture, but quickly enough to meet rising populations and climate change
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For Prelims: Bt Cotton, Bt Cotton
For Mains: 1. Genetically modified food remains controversial, especially in Europe, but for some experts, it is the best science-based method for a sustainable global food system amidst biodiversity loss and a rising population. Discuss (250 Words)
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Source: indianexpress
HEATWAVE
1. Context
In October, the Tamil Nadu government notified extreme heat as a State-specific disaster. As things stand, the decision is good because it allows those at risk of heat-related morbidity or mortality to avail institutional mechanisms and recompense in the event of a deadly heatwave
2. What is a Heat Wave?
- A heatwave is a period of abnormally high temperatures, a common phenomenon in India during the months of May-June and in some rare cases even extends till July.
- Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) classifies heat waves according to regions and temperature ranges. As per IMD, the number of heatwave days in India has increased from 413 over 1981-1990 to 600 over 2011-2020.
- This sharp rise in the number of heatwave days has resulted due to the increasing impact of climate change.
- The last three years have been La Niña years, which has served as a precursor to 2023 likely being an El Niño year. (The El Niño is a complementary phenomenon in which warmer water spreads westeast across the equatorial Pacific Ocean.)
- As we eagerly await the likely birth of an El Niño this year, we have already had a heat wave occur over northwest India.
- Heat waves tend to be confined to north and northwest India in El Niño years.
Image Source:News18
3. How do Heat waves Occur?
- Heat waves are formed for one of two reasons warmer air is flowing in from elsewhere or it is being produced locally.
- It is a local phenomenon when the air is warmed by higher land surface temperature or because the air sinking down from above is compressed along the way, producing hot air near the surface.
- First of all, in spring, India typically has air flowing in from the westnorthwest. This direction of airflow is bad news for India for several reasons.
- Likewise, air flowing in from the northwest rolls in over the mountains of Afghanistan and Pakistan, so some of the compression also happens on the leeward side of these mountains, entering India with a bristling warmth.
- While air flowing over the oceans is expected to bring cooler air, the Arabian Sea is warming faster than most other ocean regions.
- Next, the strong upper atmospheric westerly winds, from the Atlantic Ocean to India during spring, control the near-surface winds.
- Any time winds flow from the west to the east, we need to remember that the winds are blowing faster than the planet which also rotates from west to east.
- The energy to run past the earth near the surface, against surface friction, can only come from above. This descending air compresses and warms up to generate some heat waves.
4. Impacts of heat waves in India
- The frequent occurrence of heat waves also adversely affects different sectors of the economy.
- For instance, the livelihood of poor and marginal farmers is negatively impacted due to the loss of working days.
- Heatwaves also have an adverse impact on daily wage workers' productivity, impacting the economy.
- Crop yields suffer when temperatures exceed the ideal range.
- Farmers in Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh have reported losses in their wheat crop in the past rabi season. Across India, wheat production could be down 6-7% due to heat waves.
- Mortality due to heat waves occurs because of rising temperatures, lack of public awareness programs, and inadequate long-term mitigation measures.
- According to a 2019 report by the Tata Center for Development and the University of Chicago, by 2100 annually, more than 1.5 million people will be likely to die due to extreme heat caused by climate change.
- The increased heat wave will lead to an increase in diseases like diabetes, circulatory and respiratory conditions, as well as mental health challenges.
-
The concurrence of heat and drought events is causing crop production losses and tree mortality. The risks to health and food production will be made more severe by the sudden food production losses exacerbated by heat-induced labor productivity losses.These interacting impacts will increase food prices, reduce household incomes, and lead to malnutrition and climate-related deaths, especially in tropical regions.
5. How does air mass contribute to heat waves?
- The other factors that affect the formation of heat waves are the age of the air mass and how far it has traveled.
- The north northwestern heatwaves are typically formed with air masses that come from 800-1600 km away and are around two days old.
- Heat waves over peninsular India on the other hand, arrive from the oceans, which are closer (around 200-400km) and are barely a day old. As a result, they are on average less intense.
6. Way ahead for Heat waves
- Identifying heat hot spots through appropriate tracking of meteorological data and promoting timely development and implementation of local Heat Action Plans with strategic inter-agency coordination, and a response that targets the most vulnerable groups.
- Review existing occupational health standards, labor laws, and sectoral regulations for worker safety in relation to climatic conditions.
- Policy intervention and coordination across three sectors health, water, and power are necessary.
- Promotion of traditional adaptation practices, such as staying indoors and wearing comfortable clothes.
- Popularisation of simple design features such as shaded windows, underground water storage tanks, and insulating house materials.
- Advance implementation of local Heat Action Plans, plus effective inter-agency coordination is a vital response that the government can deploy in order to protect vulnerable groups.
For Prelims & Mains
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For Prelims: Heat Wave, India Meteorological Department (IMD), El Nino, Equatorial Pacific Ocean, La Nina, Malnutrition, Heat Action Plans.
For Mains: 1. Examine the various adverse impacts caused by heat waves and how India should deal with them.
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Previous Year Questions
1.What are the possible limitations of India in mitigating global warming at present and in the immediate future? (UPSC CSE 2010)
1. Appropriate alternate technologies are not sufficiently available. 2. India cannot invest huge funds in research and development. 3. Many developed countries have already set up their polluting industries in India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer (a) India faces challenges in addressing Global Warming: Developing and underdeveloped nations lack access to advanced technologies, resulting in a scarcity of viable alternatives for combating climate change. Being a developing nation, India relies partially or entirely on developed countries for technology. Moreover, a significant portion of the annual budget in these nations is allocated to development and poverty alleviation programs, leaving limited funds for research and development of alternative technologies compared to developed nations. Analyzing the statements provided: Statements 1 and 2 hold true based on the aforementioned factors. However, Statement 3 is inaccurate as the establishment of polluting industries by developed countries within India is not feasible due to regulations governing industrial setup Mains 1.Bring out the causes for the formation of heat islands in the urban habitat of the world. (UPSC CSE Mains GS 1 2013) |
Source: The Hindu
PM VIDYALAKSHMI SCHEME
1. Context
On November 6, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved a new Central Sector Scheme, PM Vidyalaxmi, which seeks to provide financial support to meritorious students applying for higher education. Students will now be eligible to get collateral-free, guarantor-free loans from banks and financial institutions to cover the full amount of tuition fees and other expenses related to the course.
2. Key takeaways of PM Vidyalakshmi Scheme
- The newly introduced Central Sector scheme aims to offer financial assistance to students, ensuring that financial limitations do not hinder anyone from pursuing higher education.
- The key difference between a central sector scheme and a centrally sponsored scheme (CSS) is that, under the former, the Union government covers the entire cost, whereas in a CSS, the Union government shares the expenditure with the state governments.
- The scheme has been allocated Rs 3,600 crore from 2024-25 to 2030-31, with an expected 7 lakh new students benefiting from the interest subsidy provided.
- The central government will offer a 75% credit guarantee for loans up to Rs 7.5 lakh. Additionally, students from families earning up to Rs 8 lakh annually, who are not eligible for any other government scholarship or interest subvention, will receive a 3% interest subsidy for loans up to Rs 10 lakh during the moratorium period.
- The interest subsidy will be extended to 1 lakh students annually, with priority given to those from government institutions pursuing technical or professional courses.
- PM-Vidyalaxmi seeks to enhance and expand the impact of the Government of India’s education and financial inclusion programs over the past decade, aiming to increase access to quality higher education for youth in India. This initiative complements the Central Sector Interest Subsidy (CSIS) and the Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Education Loans (CGFSEL), both managed under the PM-USP by the Department of Higher Education.
- Quality Higher Education Institutions (QHEIs) will be determined based on the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF). The scheme will apply to institutions ranked in the top 100 overall and those within specific domains, state government institutions ranked 101-200, and all centrally run institutions. Initially, 860 eligible institutions, catering to over 2.2 million students, will be included in PM-Vidyalaxmi, potentially offering benefits to students who opt to participate.
- An official from the Ministry of Education stated that students enrolled in all courses, not just technical or professional, will be eligible for the scheme. Students can apply for loans and interest subsidies through a dedicated portal.
- The Department of Higher Education will launch a unified portal, PM-Vidyalaxmi, allowing students to apply for education loans and interest subsidies through a simplified process accessible across all participating banks
3. PM Internship Scheme
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The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme, which aims to offer internships to one crore youth across the top 500 companies over five years, launched its portal for companies to begin registering their internship opportunities on October 3 for the pilot phase.
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The scheme is designed to create internship opportunities for students to tackle youth unemployment. The Prime Minister’s vision is to provide internships to 1 crore young people over the next five years.
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Interns will receive a stipend of Rs 5,000 per month for a 12-month period. Of this amount, Rs 500 will be provided by the company through its CSR funds, and the government will contribute Rs 4,500.
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In addition to the monthly stipend, applicants will be given a one-time financial assistance of Rs 6,000 to cover incidental expenses. Moreover, initiatives such as PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana and PM Suraksha Bima Yojana will ensure that interns are covered by insurance, with the government paying the premiums.
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The scheme is open to applicants aged 21-24 years and is being managed by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs
4. Way Forward
Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme is a significant initiative aimed at addressing youth unemployment by providing valuable internship opportunities to one crore young individuals over the next five years. With the financial support provided through stipends and insurance coverage, this scheme not only offers practical work experience but also ensures the well-being of interns. By collaborating with top companies and leveraging CSR funds, the scheme promises to bridge the skills gap, enhance employability, and empower the youth, contributing to India's long-term socio-economic development. Through its dedicated portal, the initiative also streamlines the application process, making it accessible and efficient for both companies and candidates
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For Prelims: PM Vidyalakshmi Scheme, National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF)
For Mains: 1.The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme aims to address youth unemployment by providing internship opportunities to one crore young individuals over five years. Analyze the potential impact of this scheme on skill development, employability, and youth empowerment in India. What challenges might it face in implementation, and how can these be addressed?
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Source: Indianexpress
CLOUD SEEDING
1. Context
The Delhi government’s appeal to the Centre to permit cloud-seeding and induce artificial rain as a means to tackle the national capital’s ongoing air pollution crisis is misplaced, scientists at the Indian Institute of Tropical Management
2. What is Cloud Seeding?
Cloud seeding is a form of weather modification technology designed to induce artificial rainfall.
Its effectiveness relies on the presence of adequate pre-existing clouds in the atmosphere.
Rain occurs when atmospheric moisture reaches a saturation point, and cloud seeding aims to expedite this process by introducing chemical 'nuclei.'
These nuclei provide surfaces around which condensation can occur.
Examples of rain-inducing nuclei include silver or potassium iodides, solid carbon dioxide (dry ice), or liquid propane. Delivery methods for these seeding agents include aerial dispersal via aircraft or ground-based spraying.
3. Cloud Seeding Methods
Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique used to enhance precipitation by introducing seeding agents into clouds. Various methods are employed to disperse these agents, promoting the formation of precipitation. Here are some common cloud seeding methods:
Aerial Seeding:
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- Aircraft Dispersion: Cloud seeding agents, such as silver iodide or other materials, are released into the atmosphere from aircraft. Flares or canisters containing the seeding agents are ignited and dispersed at appropriate cloud levels. The aircraft may fly through clouds or release seeding agents from above, depending on the cloud characteristics.
Ground-Based Seeding:
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Ground-Based Generators: These are stationed on the ground to release seeding agents into the atmosphere. These generators may use flares or other mechanisms to disperse the seeding agents vertically into the air. Ground-based seeding is often employed in areas where aircraft may not be practical or cost-effective.
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Rocket Launches: Some cloud seeding programs use rockets equipped with seeding agents to reach specific altitudes in the atmosphere. The rockets are launched from the ground and disperse the seeding agents into the target clouds.
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Hygroscopic Flares:
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- Hygroscopic Materials: Certain seeding agents, known as hygroscopic materials, have an affinity for water vapor. These materials can absorb moisture from the air, promoting the coalescence of water droplets and eventually precipitation. Calcium chloride is an example of a hygroscopic material used in cloud seeding.
Remote Sensing and Monitoring:
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Weather Radar: Meteorologists use weather radar to monitor cloud development and precipitation patterns. This information helps identify suitable clouds for seeding and assess the effectiveness of cloud seeding operations.
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Weather Balloons and Instruments: Instruments carried by weather balloons provide data on atmospheric conditions, helping meteorologists determine the feasibility of cloud seeding. These instruments measure factors such as temperature, humidity, and wind speed at different altitudes.
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Natural Ice Nuclei:
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- Collecting Natural Ice Nuclei: In some cases, natural ice nuclei (particles that can initiate the freezing of water droplets) are collected and dispersed into clouds to encourage the formation of ice crystals. This method is less common than using artificial seeding agents.
4. Applications of Cloud Seeding
Cloud seeding is primarily employed to enhance precipitation in specific regions, and it has applications in various fields. Some notable applications of cloud seeding include:
Water Resource Management:
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- Increased Precipitation: Cloud seeding aims to boost rainfall or snowfall in targeted areas, contributing to increased water resources. This is particularly valuable in regions facing water scarcity or drought conditions.
Agriculture:
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- Enhanced Crop Irrigation: Increased precipitation resulting from cloud seeding can benefit agriculture by providing additional water for crop irrigation. This is especially significant in arid or semi-arid regions where water availability is a limiting factor for agricultural productivity.
Water Supply Augmentation:
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- Reservoir Replenishment: Cloud seeding can help replenish reservoirs and aquifers, contributing to the augmentation of water supplies for domestic, industrial, and agricultural use.
Snowpack Augmentation:
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- Winter Sports Industry: In mountainous regions, cloud seeding is sometimes employed to enhance snowpack, particularly for ski resorts and winter sports areas. Increased snowfall can extend the winter season and improve conditions for skiing and other activities.
Forest Fire Prevention:
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- Reducing Fire Risk: In certain cases, cloud seeding is explored as a tool for reducing the risk of forest fires. By inducing precipitation, especially in dry and fire-prone areas, the moisture content of vegetation may increase, lowering the likelihood of wildfires.
Air Quality Improvement:
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- Particle Removal: Cloud seeding can contribute to the removal of particulate matter and pollutants from the atmosphere. The process of precipitation can capture particles and cleanse the air.
Research and Climate Studies:
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- Scientific Investigations: Cloud seeding is sometimes used in scientific research to study cloud dynamics, precipitation processes, and atmospheric interactions. These studies help improve our understanding of weather patterns and climate systems.
Hydropower Generation:
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- Improved Reservoir Levels: Increased precipitation resulting from cloud seeding can contribute to higher water levels in reservoirs, positively impacting hydropower generation.
5. What are the Challenges involved in Cloud Seeding?
Cloud seeding, despite its potential benefits, is a practice that comes with several challenges and considerations. Some of the key challenges involved in cloud seeding include:
Effectiveness and Unpredictability:
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- The effectiveness of cloud seeding can be variable and is dependent on various factors such as cloud type, atmospheric conditions, and the presence of suitable seeding materials. Predicting the outcome of cloud seeding operations with certainty remains a challenge.
Ethical and Environmental Concerns:
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- Cloud seeding involves the intentional modification of weather patterns, raising ethical and environmental questions. Concerns include potential unintended consequences, ecological impacts, and the ethical considerations of altering natural precipitation processes.
Public Perception and Acceptance:
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- Cloud seeding initiatives may face public skepticism and opposition due to concerns about the unknown environmental impacts, the artificial manipulation of weather, and potential health effects of the seeding agents. Public acceptance is crucial for the success and continuation of cloud seeding programs.
Regulatory Approval:
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- Implementing cloud seeding programs often requires regulatory approval and adherence to environmental regulations. Obtaining permits and addressing regulatory concerns can be a time-consuming and complex process.
Scientific Uncertainty:
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- The scientific understanding of cloud seeding is still evolving, and uncertainties remain regarding its long-term effects, environmental impact, and overall effectiveness. Ongoing research is essential to address these uncertainties and improve the understanding of the practice.
Limited Scope and Scale:
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- Cloud seeding is generally effective within certain weather conditions and specific cloud types. Its applicability may be limited to certain regions and may not work in all meteorological conditions.
Weather Variability:
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- Natural weather variability can impact the success of cloud seeding. Unpredictable changes in atmospheric conditions, including wind patterns and temperature fluctuations, can influence the dispersion and effectiveness of seeding agents.
Technical Challenges:
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- The technology involved in cloud seeding, including the delivery of seeding agents, can face technical challenges. For example, the dispersion of seeding agents from aircraft or ground-based generators must be carefully calibrated for optimal results.
Cost:
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- Implementing and maintaining cloud seeding programs can be expensive. The costs include aircraft operations, ground-based generators, and the purchase of seeding materials. Cost-effectiveness is a consideration in the decision to pursue cloud seeding initiatives.
Data Collection and Monitoring:
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- Adequate data collection and monitoring are essential for assessing the impact of cloud seeding. Establishing comprehensive monitoring systems to evaluate changes in precipitation patterns and environmental conditions requires significant resources and infrastructure
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For Prelims: General issues on Environmental ecology
For Mains: General Studies III: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
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Previous Year Questions
1.In the context of which of the following do some scientists suggest the use of cirrus cloud thinning technique and the injection of sulphate aerosol into stratosphere? (UPSC CSE 2019) (a) Creating the artificial rains in some regions Answer (d)
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Source: Indianexpress
