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| Exclusive for Subscribers Daily: Natural farming and National Education Policy (NEP) for the UPSC Exam? Why are topics like Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) important for both preliminary and main exams? Discover more insights in the UPSC Exam Notes for December 20, 2024 |
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Critical Topics and Their Significance for the UPSC CSE Examination on December 20, 2024
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What is natural farming?
What is the significance of natural farming?
Natural farming is an agricultural method that relies on nature's processes, minimizing external inputs like chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and intensive tillage. It focuses on maintaining and enhancing the health of the soil, environment, and ecosystem through natural processes. This farming technique was popularized by Masanobu Fukuoka, a Japanese farmer and philosopher, and is widely practiced in India today, particularly under the Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) model.
Key Principles of Natural Farming:
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No Tillage (No Plowing): Natural farming discourages the use of heavy machinery and soil disturbance, allowing the natural ecosystem in the soil to remain intact and healthy.
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No Use of Chemical Fertilizers or Pesticides: Instead of synthetic inputs, natural farming promotes the use of organic fertilizers, like compost or manure, and relies on natural pest predators for crop protection.
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Mulching: The use of plant residues and organic material as ground cover helps conserve moisture, protect soil from erosion, and suppress weeds.
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Intercropping and Crop Diversity: Multiple crops are grown together to enhance biodiversity, improve soil fertility, and reduce pest outbreaks.
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Livestock Integration: Animals are an integral part of the system, contributing manure and enhancing nutrient cycling within the farm.
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Natural Resource Use: Emphasizes using locally available resources like indigenous seeds, and promotes minimal dependence on external inputs.
The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) is a government initiative in India aimed at promoting and supporting natural farming practices across the country. It is part of the larger vision of sustainable agriculture, aiming to reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers and pesticides while enhancing soil health, biodiversity, and farm resilience. The mission encourages farmers to adopt natural farming techniques, which emphasize low-cost, eco-friendly, and regenerative agricultural practices.
Key Objectives of NMNF:
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Promotion of Natural Farming: Encourage farmers to switch from conventional farming methods to natural farming practices to reduce input costs and improve crop resilience.
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Environmental Sustainability: Enhance soil fertility, conserve water, reduce pollution from chemical inputs, and increase biodiversity through eco-friendly agricultural practices.
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Farmer Welfare: Improve the livelihoods of farmers by lowering the cost of cultivation and reducing their dependence on expensive external inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides.
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Climate Resilience: Build farming systems that are more resilient to climate change and extreme weather conditions, reducing the risk to farmers.
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Soil Health Improvement: Enhance soil health by fostering practices that regenerate soil ecosystems, improve organic matter content, and increase the soil’s capacity to retain moisture and nutrients.
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Answer (E)
Which one of the following most appropriately describes the nature of Green Revolution of the late sixties of 20th century? (BPSC CCE 2015)
A.Intensive cultivation of green vegetable
B.Intensive agriculture district programme
C.High-yielding varieties programme
D.Seed-Fertilizer-Water technology
E.None of the above/More than one of the above
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The Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) scheme is an initiative by the Government of India aimed at developing and upgrading schools across the country to serve as model institutions of excellence. Under this scheme, selected schools are transformed into "PM-SHRI Schools", which are envisioned to be centers of quality education that embrace modern teaching practices, a student-centered environment, and comprehensive infrastructure.
Key features of the PM-SHRI scheme include:
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Holistic Learning Environment: The scheme emphasizes a holistic approach to education, integrating the principles of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, focusing on both academic and co-curricular excellence.
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Modern Infrastructure: PM-SHRI schools will be equipped with modern facilities, smart classrooms, libraries, and laboratories to promote experiential and inquiry-based learning.
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Sustainable Practices: The schools will adopt sustainable practices such as energy-efficient infrastructure, rainwater harvesting, and waste management systems.
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Technology Integration: The scheme encourages the use of technology in teaching and learning, enabling digital literacy and a focus on skill development.
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Inclusive and Equitable Education: PM-SHRI schools will aim to provide equitable access to quality education for all, including marginalized and disadvantaged communities
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is a comprehensive framework introduced by the Government of India to guide the development of the education system, from primary to higher education, and vocational training. It aims to make India a global knowledge superpower by transforming the educational landscape, promoting innovation, and improving the quality of education across all levels.
Here are the key highlights of NEP 2020:
New Structure: The traditional 10+2 structure has been replaced with a 5+3+3+4 structure corresponding to the stages of child development:
- Foundational Stage (5 years): 3 years of pre-primary + grades 1 and 2
- Preparatory Stage (3 years): Grades 3 to 5
- Middle Stage (3 years): Grades 6 to 8
- Secondary Stage (4 years): Grades 9 to 12
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Answer (b)
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Copyright is a form of intellectual property law that grants the creator of original works exclusive rights to its use and distribution, usually for a limited time. This legal concept applies to a wide range of creative, intellectual, or artistic forms, such as:
- Literary works (books, poems, articles)
- Musical compositions (songs, lyrics)
- Visual art (paintings, drawings, photographs)
- Films and videos
- Software programs
- Dramatic works (plays, screenplays)
- Architectural designs
Exclusive Rights: Copyright holders have several exclusive rights, including the right to:
- Reproduce the work
- Distribute copies of the work
- Perform or display the work publicly
- Create derivative works based on the original (e.g., adaptations, sequels)
- License the work to others
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Answer (C)
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- According to the Constitution, health and law enforcement are under state jurisdiction, making it the primary duty of state governments or Union Territory administrations to address and prevent violent incidents.
- The central government has acknowledged that it does not maintain comprehensive records of healthcare worker fatalities resulting from patient family attacks.
- Workplace violence against medical professionals has been a longstanding issue in India. A notable incident occurred in 1973 when a nurse at a Mumbai hospital was assaulted, leaving her in a vegetative state for over four decades until her death in 2015.
- Despite this, healthcare workers continue to advocate for basic safety measures in hospitals, including better lighting, increased security personnel, and surveillance systems.
- Protesters in Delhi highlight the inadequate safety conditions in medical institutions, citing poorly lit areas, insufficient security, and the physical distance between departments.
- They emphasize the urgent need for improved working conditions and safety measures to protect healthcare workers, particularly those working night shifts.
- Medical professionals are calling for systemic reforms and a central protection act for doctors. They point to examples from other countries, such as the UK's zero-tolerance policy on violence in the NHS and stricter legal consequences for assaults on healthcare workers in some US states.
- The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has submitted demands to the central government, including enhanced security protocols and the designation of healthcare facilities as safe zones.
- In response to these concerns, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has mandated that institutional FIRs be filed within six hours of any violent incident against healthcare workers.
- Additionally, the National Medical Commission has instructed medical colleges to develop policies for a safe work environment and to promptly investigate and report any incidents of violence against medical students
1.Which of the following statements regarding the safety of doctors in India is/are correct?
- Violence against healthcare workers in India is not a new phenomenon, with incidents being reported as early as the 1970s.
- The Union government centrally maintains records of the number of medical professionals who have lost their lives due to violence by patients or their families.
- The National Medical Commission (NMC) has directed all medical colleges to develop a policy ensuring a safe work environment for all staff members.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
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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‘Look East’ to ‘Act East’: India’s evolving engagement with Southeast Asia and Indo-Pacific
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of nationl and international importance
For Mains Examination: GS II - International relations
Context:
India and Singapore recently held the second round of India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) meeting ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to two key member nations of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) – Singapore and Brunei
Read about:
What is Look east policy?
What is Act east policy?
Key takeaways:
- India and Singapore recently conducted the second India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) meeting ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to two prominent ASEAN nations—Singapore and Brunei. This visit, scheduled for the first week of September, underscores India's commitment to deepening its strategic, economic, and cultural ties with Southeast Asian countries under its 'Act East' policy.
- India’s connections with Southeast Asia and the Cold War: Historical ties between India and Southeast Asia, such as those between the Chola Empire and the Kingdom of Kalinga with Southeast Asia, exemplify the long-standing civilizational links between these regions. The deep-rooted influence of the Ramayana tradition in Southeast Asia is another testament to the cultural bonds between India and the region.
- However, these cultural connections were not emphasized during the Cold War. At that time, Southeast Asian nations joined the US-led military alliance, the South East Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO), established in 1954 with Pakistan as a founding member. India’s non-alignment policy kept it distant from Southeast Asia during this period. Additionally, the close relationship between India and the Soviet Union during the latter half of the Cold War further distanced New Delhi from Southeast Asia.
- The Soviet Union's collapse in 1991 impacted India significantly, leaving it without a powerful ally in the complex international landscape. India was not in a position to align with the US due to longstanding distrust of American policies shared by Indian civil society and political leaders. Furthermore, the Nehruvian worldview of India’s political and strategic elite hindered efforts to reach out to the US and its allies.
- From Look East to Act East: When Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha Rao took office in 1991, he inherited this complex situation. He led the nation through significant changes in both domestic and foreign policies. Domestically, India adopted neoliberal economic policies, while its foreign policy began to shift towards the US and the West. It was in this context that India’s ‘Look East’ policy was formulated in 1992.
- The 'Look East' policy aimed to strengthen relations between India and Southeast Asian countries and position India as a counterbalance to China, which many Southeast Asian nations viewed as a security threat. Initially, the policy focused primarily on economic relations and trade. However, as China's influence grew, a strategic dimension was added.
- To advance the 'Look East' policy, India joined ASEAN as a sectoral dialogue partner in 1992, became a full dialogue partner and a member of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) in 1996, and started participating in the East Asia Summit (EAS) in 2005. By 2010, India also became a dialogue partner in the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus)
Act East Policy and India’s Northeast
The 'Act East' policy emphasizes security and connectivity, leading India to establish strategic partnerships with nations like Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, and Australia. Maritime security is a key focus of this policy, addressing concerns in the region about China's assertive actions and the threats posed by non-state actors and piracy.
Moreover, India’s Northeast continues to be a crucial element of the 'Act East' policy, just as it was under the earlier 'Look East' policy. The policy prioritizes connectivity projects aimed at creating extensive linkages between India’s Northeast and ASEAN countries, as well as beyond. India anticipates that these connectivity initiatives with the Asia-Pacific region will significantly contribute to the development of its Northeastern region
Follow Up Question
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Discuss the evolution of India's 'Look East' policy into the 'Act East' policy. How has this transition impacted India's strategic and economic relations with Southeast Asia? (250 words)
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Evaluate the significance of the 'Act East' policy in strengthening India's role in the Indo-Pacific region. What are the key challenges India faces in fully realizing its objectives under this policy? (250 words)
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"The Act East policy is crucial for the development of India's Northeastern region." Critically analyze this statement with reference to connectivity projects and regional integration. (250 words)
ICAR, Penn State team makes a tool small enough to edit plant genomes
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international events
For Mains Examination: GS III - Science & technology
Context:
Researchers have developed a plant genome editor consisting of a protein derived from Deinococcus radiodurans bacteria — famous for being able to survive extreme conditions. The protein is less than half the size of the proteins CRISPR commonly uses to target specific parts of the DNA
Read about:
What is CRISPR Technology?
What is Genome Editing?
Key takeaways:
CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) technology is a revolutionary tool used in genetics for editing genomes. It allows scientists to alter DNA sequences and modify gene function with unprecedented precision
Here’s a brief overview:
CRISPR was first discovered as part of the immune system in bacteria. Bacteria use CRISPR sequences to remember viruses that have attacked them before. If the virus attacks again, the bacteria produce RNA segments from the CRISPR sequences to target and cut the virus's DNA, neutralizing the threat
How It Works
- Cas9 Protein: The CRISPR system is commonly associated with a protein called Cas9 (CRISPR-associated protein 9), which acts like molecular scissors. Cas9 can be programmed to cut DNA at specific locations.
- Guide RNA (gRNA): This is a custom RNA sequence that guides Cas9 to the exact spot in the DNA where the cut needs to be made.
- DNA Editing: Once the DNA is cut, the cell naturally tries to repair the break. During this repair process, scientists can introduce new genetic material or disable a gene, effectively editing the genome.
Applications
- Medical Research: CRISPR is used to study genes and their functions, model diseases, and even explore gene therapy options to treat genetic disorders.
- Agriculture: It’s used to create crops with desirable traits, such as disease resistance or enhanced nutritional content.
- Biomedical Advances: CRISPR holds potential for treating diseases like cancer, HIV, and genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia.
- argeting a Specific DNA Sequence: Genome editing involves the identification of a particular sequence of DNA that scientists want to modify. This sequence could be a single gene or a section of a gene.
- Cutting the DNA: A specialized enzyme, known as a nuclease, is used to cut the DNA at the targeted site. This cut can either be a clean break or a nick in one of the DNA strands.
- Repairing or Altering the DNA: After the DNA is cut, the cell’s natural repair mechanisms kick in. Scientists can harness these repair processes to introduce changes:
- Non-Homologous End Joining (NHEJ): This repair mechanism tends to introduce small insertions or deletions at the break site, which can knock out or disable a gene.
- Homology-Directed Repair (HDR): In this repair process, a DNA template is provided by scientists, allowing precise insertion of new genetic material at the site of the cut.
1.What is the Cas9 protein that is often mentioned in news? (UPSC CSE 2019)
A.A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing
B. A biosensor used in the accurate detection of pathogens in patients
C. A gene that makes plants pest-resistant
D. A herbicidal substance synthesized in genetically modified crops
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Answer (A)
A. A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing The Cas9 protein is an enzyme that plays a key role in the CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing technology. It acts like "molecular scissors," cutting DNA at specific locations, allowing for the targeted modification of genes |
- Collision avoidance systems use sensors, cameras, radar, lidar, or other technologies to monitor the surrounding environment. They detect objects, obstacles, or other vehicles that may pose a collision risk
- The system analyzes the data collected by the sensors to assess the likelihood of a collision. This involves evaluating the distance, speed, and trajectory of nearby objects
- If a potential collision is detected, the system typically provides warnings to the driver or operator. This can include visual alerts, audible alarms, or haptic feedback (e.g., vibrations)
- In some advanced systems, collision avoidance technology can take automatic actions to prevent an accident. This may include applying the brakes, steering the vehicle away from the obstacle, or initiating evasive maneuvers
- Collision avoidance systems can be integrated with other safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automated emergency braking, to enhance overall vehicle safety
- In cars and trucks, collision avoidance systems help prevent rear-end collisions, lane departures, and other accidents. Examples include forward collision warning (FCW), automatic emergency braking (AEB), and blind-spot detection systems
- In aircraft, collision avoidance systems help prevent mid-air collisions and ground incidents. The Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) is a widely used example that alerts pilots to potential conflicts with other aircraft
- In ships and boats, collision avoidance systems utilize radar and AIS (Automatic Identification System) to detect and avoid collisions with other vessels or obstacles in the water
- In warehouses and manufacturing facilities, collision avoidance systems are used in automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and forklifts to prevent accidents with personnel and other equipment
- By detecting potential hazards and providing warnings or automatic interventions, these systems significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries
- Collision avoidance systems can help maintain smooth traffic flow and reduce the likelihood of traffic jams caused by accidents
- Preventing collisions can lead to lower repair costs, insurance premiums, and liability claims
1.Consider the following communication technologies: (UPSC CSE 2022)
- Closed-circuit Television
- Radio Frequency Identification
- Wireless Local Area Network
Which of the above are considered Short-Range devices/technologies?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
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Answer (d)
Given this analysis, all three technologies listed can be classified as short-range devices/technologies. Therefore, the correct answer is (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
| Subject | Topic | Description |
| History | Modern Indian History | Important Personalities |
| History | Modern Indian History | Independence and Partition |
| History | Modern Indian History | Constitutional Development in India |
| History | Modern Indian History | Peasants, Tribal and other movements |
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