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Critical Topics and Their Significance for the UPSC CSE Examination on November 13, 2024
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The Indus Water Treaty (IWT) is a water-sharing agreement signed between India and Pakistan in 1960, brokered by the World Bank, aimed at resolving disputes over the use of water from the Indus River system, which flows through both countries.
Key Features of the Indus Water Treaty:
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Rivers Involved: The treaty divides the control over six rivers in the Indus Basin between India and Pakistan.
- Western Rivers (Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab) were allocated to Pakistan.
- Eastern Rivers (Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej) were allocated to India.
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India's Rights:
- India is permitted unrestricted use of the water from the Eastern Rivers for purposes such as irrigation, domestic use, and hydroelectric power generation.
- India is also allowed limited use of the Western Rivers for domestic needs, agriculture (limited irrigation), and hydropower generation, but it cannot store water or divert the flow in a way that harms Pakistan’s usage of the Western Rivers.
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Permanent Indus Commission: The treaty established a Permanent Indus Commission with commissioners from both countries to resolve disputes, share data, and monitor the implementation of the treaty.
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Dispute Resolution Mechanism: If disagreements arise, the treaty outlines a multi-stage process for resolving disputes, involving neutral experts, international arbitration, and, in some cases, intervention by the World Bank.
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Sustainability: The treaty has been largely successful in maintaining peace over water-sharing issues despite the often-tense relations between India and Pakistan. It has survived several wars and conflicts.
- The treaty has been a critical factor in maintaining peaceful cooperation over shared water resources between India and Pakistan, despite frequent political and military tensions. Even during times of conflict, such as the wars of 1965 and 1971, the two countries adhered to the treaty's provisions, avoiding water-related hostilities.
- It provides a clear and structured framework for the distribution of water from the Indus River System, ensuring that both countries have access to sufficient water resources for agriculture, drinking, and power generation. This helps prevent disputes over water-sharing, which can be a source of major conflict between nations
- Pakistan, being downstream, is highly dependent on the water of the Western Rivers (Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab). The treaty guarantees a steady supply of water to Pakistan, which is crucial for its agriculture-based economy. Without the treaty, Pakistan would be vulnerable to disruptions in water flow, potentially leading to economic and humanitarian crises
- The treaty allows India to develop hydropower projects on the Western Rivers, albeit under certain restrictions. These projects are critical for India’s energy needs, especially in states like Jammu and Kashmir. The treaty strikes a balance, allowing India to harness water for power generation without significantly affecting Pakistan's water supply
- The Indus Water Treaty is often cited as a successful example of an international agreement that helps resolve natural resource disputes. The involvement of the World Bank as a mediator and the establishment of the Permanent Indus Commission serve as models for resolving cross-border water conflicts worldwide
1.Consider the following statements regarding the Indus Water Treaty (IWT):
- The Indus Water Treaty was brokered by the World Bank and signed between India and Pakistan in 1960.
- Under the treaty, India has complete control over the waters of the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers.
- The treaty establishes a Permanent Indus Commission to manage and resolve disputes between the two countries.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3
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Answer (B)
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission from Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh, with the aim of eradicating sickle cell disease as a public health issue by 2047. Having witnessed the severe impact of this disease during his time as Chief Minister of Gujarat, where it poses a major public health challenge, Mr. Modi's government is now working to address it nationwide. This article outlines the opportunities for further progress in tackling the disease.
Challenges in India
- India has the second-highest burden of sickle cell disease globally, with over a million people affected, primarily in the tribal regions of Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
- Sickle cell disease is caused by a genetic mutation; children are at risk of developing the disease if both parents carry the trait. While healthy individuals have disc-shaped red blood cells, those with sickle cell disease have crescent-shaped cells that shorten life expectancy (to around 40 years) and cause numerous health issues like sickle cell anaemia, recurrent infections, and organ damage.
- In addition to physical challenges, patients often face social stigma, being considered "genetically inferior" or even subjected to superstitions linking the disease to divine punishment or black magic. This can limit their social and marital opportunities.
- The Mission, launched in 2023, has placed the government's focus on addressing sickle cell disease. A nationwide screening initiative is underway, and hydroxyurea, a key medication for managing the disease, has been added to the essential medicines list, improving accessibility. However, significant challenges remain.
- Current estimates indicate that only 18% of sickle cell patients in India receive regular treatment. This is due to high dropout rates at various stages, from screening to diagnosis and treatment adherence.
- The biggest barriers are at the diagnosis and treatment stages. Many patients delay seeking proper medical help due to the stigma and often turn to traditional healers, who misdiagnose the condition. While the public healthcare system has strong diagnostic capabilities, tribal communities have historically distrusted it, leading to fewer people getting tested.
- The second major issue is treatment adherence. There is no permanent cure for sickle cell disease, and while gene therapy holds potential, it is likely to remain unaffordable for most patients. In the meantime, hydroxyurea, an affordable treatment, is effective when administered consistently.
- However, access to medication is inconsistent, with patients often facing stock shortages or long distances to collect their prescriptions. In some areas, patients must travel over 200 kilometers for treatment. Additionally, many patients lack access to crucial vaccinations that help prevent infections and improve their quality of life.
- To build on the Mission's early progress, addressing these challenges is key. First, efforts to reduce stigma and build trust in public health services are essential. Targeted media campaigns could dispel myths specific to different regions and communities, drawing on successful public health campaigns against polio and HIV. Reducing stigma could also lead to better disclosure of sickle cell carrier status, lowering the number of children born with the disease.
- Second, increasing newborn screening in high-risk areas could help catch cases earlier, as it is a cost-effective approach with significant benefits.
- Third, ensuring that essential medications and adherence support are easily accessible at local health centers is vital. Specialized centers for treating complications should also be established at the district or divisional level.
- Fourth, improving vaccination coverage for sickle cell patients, possibly through catch-up programs, would help reduce infections and enhance their quality of life.
- Fifth, health services in tribal areas need to be strengthened, with funding and operational strategies tailored to the unique challenges of these regions.
- Finally, more research is needed to better understand the disease in India and develop new treatments. Philanthropists and civil society organizations can play a crucial role in collaborating with the government at both the central and state levels to drive progress
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Answer (B)
Sickle cell anemia is caused by a genetic mutation that leads to the production of abnormal hemoglobin, known as hemoglobin S. This causes red blood cells to take on a sickle shape, leading to various health issues
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- Extinction: The Asiatic cheetah was last sighted in India in 1947. The species was declared extinct due to habitat loss, hunting, and decline in prey.
- Conservation Efforts: Recognizing the ecological importance of cheetahs, the Indian government initiated efforts to reintroduce this species to restore biodiversity.
- Reintroduction of Cheetahs: The primary goal of Project Cheetah is to reintroduce the African cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) to select habitats in India, particularly in the Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh.
- Biodiversity Restoration: The project aims to enhance biodiversity and restore the natural ecosystem by reestablishing a top predator
- Selection of Sites: Kuno National Park was identified as a suitable habitat for the cheetah reintroduction due to its grassland ecosystem and availability of prey.
- Importing Cheetahs: The project involves the importation of cheetahs from African countries, such as Namibia and South Africa.
- Monitoring and Research: Post-reintroduction, the cheetahs will be closely monitored using GPS collars to track their movements, health, and adaptation to the new environment
- Official Launch: The project was officially launched in September 2022, when a group of cheetahs was brought from Namibia and released into Kuno National Park.
- Community Involvement: Efforts are also being made to involve local communities in conservation efforts and raise awareness about the importance of protecting the cheetah and its habitat.
- Location: Kuno National Park is situated in the Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh, approximately 60 km from the town of Gwalior.
- Area: The park covers an area of about 344 square kilometers, featuring diverse landscapes, including grasslands, dry deciduous forests, and riverine ecosystems.
Biodiversity
- Flora: The park is home to various plant species, including sal, dhonk, and other deciduous trees, along with diverse grasses and shrubs that support the local fauna.
- Fauna: Kuno National Park is inhabited by numerous animal species, including:
- Prey Species: Chital (spotted deer), sambar, and nilgai, which are important for the food chain.
- Carnivores: The park has populations of leopards, wild boars, and the recently reintroduced cheetah.
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Answer (B)
There has been a proposal to translocate some Asiatic lions from their natural habitat in the Gir National Park of Gujarat to the Kuno Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh to establish a second population of these lions and help in their conservation
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Government announces three new Ramsar sites
For Preliminary Examination: Biodiversity, biome, Wetland
For Mains Examination: GS III - Environment & ecology
Context:
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced three new Ramsar sites in Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh earlier this month, taking the total of such sites in India to 85
Key takeaways:
Ramsar sites, also referred to as wetlands of international significance, stem from the Ramsar Convention, a pivotal agreement that has greatly increased awareness about the importance of these ecosystems.
Understanding Wetlands and Their Significance
The convention defines wetlands as "areas of marsh, fen, peatland, or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish, or salt, including areas of marine water where the depth at low tide does not exceed six metres." This broad definition encompasses lakes, rivers, underground aquifers, swamps, marshes, and other key water bodies. Wetlands play a critical role in climate regulation by capturing and storing carbon, preventing its release into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide—a major contributor to global warming. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, wetlands rank among the most productive ecosystems globally, comparable to rainforests and coral reefs, supporting a vast array of species, including microbes, plants, insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, fish, and mammals.
What Are Ramsar Sites?
The Ramsar Convention, an international treaty established in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, promotes the global protection and conservation of wetlands by designating them as Ramsar sites. The selection criteria for these sites include their ability to support critical life stages for plant and animal species and their function as refuges during adverse conditions. The convention also assesses the site's capacity to sustain fish populations and waterbirds. Key environmental organizations, such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature and the World Wide Fund for Nature, collaborate under the treaty.
With 172 signatory countries, the convention mandates the creation of wetland reserves and encourages the sustainable use of wetland habitats. India became a signatory in 1982, initially designating Chilika Lake in Odisha and Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan. Currently, India boasts one of the highest numbers of Ramsar sites in Asia.
Newly Designated Ramsar Sites
The Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, situated on the banks of the Noyyal River, originally served as a water reservoir for irrigation. Over time, it has evolved into a significant ecosystem, hosting a diverse range of bird species. This wetland is home to species such as the Eurasian coot, spot-billed duck, and various herons. It also serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway, establishing itself as a vital biodiversity hotspot and supporting the local community through fishing
Follow Up Question
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Answer (C)
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- In 2021, many southern states and a few northern states like Himachal Pradesh and Punjab reported a higher percentage of elderly residents compared to the national average, with this disparity projected to increase by 2036.
- A distinctive characteristic of East and South Asian societies is the speed at which aging is occurring, in contrast to Western countries. While the West saw a gradual rise in the elderly population over a century, South and East Asia have experienced similar increases within just 20-30 years.
- This rapid aging poses significant challenges for middle and low-middle-income countries, particularly due to insufficient social protections for the elderly, such as pensions and access to healthcare and social services. Additionally, the shift towards nuclear families exacerbates these challenges.
- East Asian nations have recognized these issues and implemented policies to address them. They have invested in health and social care through various insurance schemes and have strengthened community-level support systems.
- In contrast, India does not have a comprehensive public pension scheme, health insurance, or social care provisions comparable to those in East and Southeast Asia.
- Some welfare programs and health insurance schemes are available but are primarily targeted at elderly individuals below the poverty line. Existing data and studies reveal disparities in the availability, accessibility, affordability, and quality of services and support for older adults.
- To address these issues, it's crucial to understand the needs of older persons from their perspective and evaluate the current provisions for social protection, insurance, and healthcare. Given the fragmented nature of service provision and financing, defining the care ecosystem and developing targeted policy recommendations are essential.
- The Longitudinal Ageing Survey in India (LASI) indicates that individuals over 60 face multiple health issues, including non-communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions.
- The survey also shows how social determinants such as geographical location, class, caste, gender, employment, and pension status affect the quality of life for older adults. Many older individuals, particularly those working in the unorganised sector, lack access to pensions and other income support, highlighting significant gaps in social safety nets
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The HelpAge India Report 2024, titled “Ageing in India: Exploring Preparedness and Response to Care Challenges,” which surveyed 10 states and 20 cities, reveals significant issues in accessing financial security, healthcare, and social care.
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The survey, conducted in Tier I and Tier II cities, found that social pension coverage is inadequate and primarily benefits the middle class employed in government roles. Consequently, many older individuals reported financial insecurity and reliance on family support.
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Government health insurance programs, such as the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, are largely restricted to those below the poverty line.
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Other schemes, like the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) and the Employment State Insurance Scheme (ESIS), serve only government employees and those in the organized sector. Older adults often struggle with insurance claims due to lengthy processing times, deductions, and rejections
1.India is regarded as a country with a “Demographic Dividend”. This is due to (UPSC CSE 2011)
(a) Its high population in the age group below 15 years
(b) Its high population in the age group of 15-64 year
(c) Its high population in the age group above 65 years
(d) Its high total population
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Answer (b)
A demographic dividend refers to the economic benefit a country can experience when a large share of its population is in the working age group (typically 15-64 years old). This age group is both productive and has a relatively low dependency ratio, meaning there are fewer dependents (children and elderly) to support. India currently has a large young population, which presents a window of opportunity for economic growth if the right investments are made in education, skill development, and job creation |
How changes in the level of Arctic sea ice can change monsoon patterns in India
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance
For Mains Examination: GS I - Indian Geography, World Geography
Context:
Unpredictable, erratic rainfall has become the norm for the Indian monsoon. New research reveals that less sea ice in the central Arctic leads to lower rain in western and peninsular India but more rain in central and northern India
Read about:
Significance of Arctic ice
What is the Environment Protection Agency (EPA)?
Key takeaways:
- The Indian summer monsoon rainfall (ISMR), occurring from July to September with the heaviest rains in July and August, is one of the most significant monsoon systems globally.
- During the summer, the Central Asian and Indian landmasses heat up more quickly than the surrounding oceans due to sunlight. This results in a low-pressure zone at the Tropic of Cancer, known as the intertropical convergence zone.
- Trade winds, originating from the southeast, are redirected towards the Indian subcontinent by the Coriolis force and are at a lower pressure once they cross the equator. As these winds travel over the Arabian Sea, they gather moisture and release it as rainfall over India.
- Upon reaching land, the southwest monsoon splits into two branches. The Arabian Sea branch delivers rain to India’s west coast, while the other branch moves towards the Bay of Bengal, bringing rainfall to the eastern and northeastern parts of India.
- These two branches eventually meet over Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, with the Arabian Sea branch moving inland and the Bay of Bengal branch following the Himalayan range.
- The ISMR is more intricate than previously thought. Climate models over the past two decades have shown that sea surface temperatures in the Indian, Atlantic, and Pacific Oceans all play a role in influencing the monsoon. The circum-global teleconnection (CGT), a large-scale atmospheric wave in the mid-latitudes, also appears to significantly impact monsoon patterns.
- Recently, scientists have proposed that shrinking Arctic sea ice, a consequence of climate change, could influence the behavior of the monsoon. In a new study, researchers analyzed data from 1980 to 2020 along with climate models (Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phases 5 and 6) to investigate how Arctic sea ice levels affect atmospheric circulation patterns, which in turn influence the ISMR.
- The study found that the effects vary depending on location. For instance, reduced sea ice in the central Arctic results in lower rainfall in western and peninsular India, but increases rainfall in central and northern India.
- Meanwhile, reduced sea ice in the Barents-Kara Sea region (which includes the Hudson Bay, Gulf of St. Lawrence, and the Sea of Okhotsk) causes delays in the monsoon onset and makes it more unpredictable.
- Various atmospheric mechanisms contribute to these patterns. The study revealed that when central Arctic sea ice increases, heat from the ocean triggers a cyclonic circulation at lower latitudes, such as the North Atlantic.
- This strengthens Rossby waves—streams of fast-moving air in the upper atmosphere caused by Earth's rotation and temperature differences, which move from west to east.
- This intensifies the Asian jet stream over the Caspian Sea, shifting the subtropical easterly jet—winds blowing over India in the summer—northward.
- This leads to high pressure over Central Asia, causing instability in the atmosphere over India and increasing rainfall in western and peninsular regions.
- On the other hand, lower sea ice levels in the Barents-Kara Sea region set off air currents that create high pressure over southwest China. This is associated with a positive Arctic Oscillation—marked by high pressure over the northern Atlantic and Pacific—and weakens the CGT, which links weather events worldwide.
- As sea ice declines in the region, the heat released from the Barents-Kara Sea leads to an anticyclonic circulation (calm, clear skies) over northwest Europe, disturbing the upper atmosphere over subtropical Asia and India.
- This instability, combined with the high surface temperatures of the Arabian Sea and moisture from surrounding waters, results in heavier rainfall in northeastern India while leaving central and northwest India relatively dry
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Answer (A)
The correct answer is A. It is the international code of safety for ships operating in polar waters. The 'Polar Code' is an international code established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) that sets safety and environmental standards for ships operating in the Arctic and Antarctic regions |
| Subject | Topic | Description |
| History | Modern Indian History | Company rule and Crown rule 1773 - 1947 |
| History | Modern Indian History | Fall of Mughals |
| History | Modern Indian History | Establishment of British rule in India |
| History | Modern Indian History | Economic Policies of the British |
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