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Critical Topics and Their Significance for the UPSC CSE Examination on November 29, 2024
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How inflation affects cost of living?
For Preliminary Examination: Consumer Price Index (CPI), Wholesale Price Index (WPI)
For Mains Examination: GS III - Economy
Context:
Driven by a 10.87 per cent spike in food prices, India’s retail inflation surged to a 14-month high of 6.21 per cent in October this year. While unseasonal rains and extended monsoons in certain parts of the country contributed to the surge in vegetable prices, rising global food and fuel prices due to geopolitical tensions also contributed to domestic inflation.
Read about:
Inflation
Consumer Price Index (CPI)
Wholesale Price Index (WPI)
Key takeaways:
What is Inflation?
Inflation is the rate at which the overall price level of goods and services rises over time, leading to a reduction in the purchasing power of money or real income. Simply put, as inflation increases, each unit of currency buys fewer goods and services than before.
Rising inflation has a significant impact on households, particularly those with fixed or lower incomes. As the prices of goods and services increase, the same nominal income can buy fewer items, thus raising the cost of living.
Understanding Nominal and Real Income
Nominal income refers to the total monetary earnings of an individual, household, or entity over a given period. For example, if someone earns ₹50,000 per month, this is their nominal income. However, as inflation rises, the real value of this amount diminishes.
Real income, on the other hand, represents the actual purchasing power of nominal income after accounting for inflation. It can be calculated using the formula:
Real Income = Nominal Income ÷ Price of Goods
Real Interest Rates and Inflation
Inflation also affects real interest rates, which are derived by subtracting the inflation rate from the nominal interest rate. For example, if the nominal interest rate is 10% and inflation is 8%, the real interest rate would be 2%.
Real Interest Rate = Nominal Interest Rate − Inflation Rate
When inflation rises, real interest rates decrease, potentially discouraging savings, as the real value of money grows at a slower pace.
Measuring Inflation
Several methods are used to measure inflation, each focusing on different aspects of price changes:
Consumer Price Index (CPI)
CPI measures changes in the general price level of goods and services purchased by households, including both domestically produced and imported items. Published monthly by the government, CPI reflects the inflation experienced by consumers. The formula for calculating inflation is:
Inflation Rate = ((CPI x+1 − CPI x ) / CPI x) × 100
Here, CPI x refers to the base year’s CPI value. Annual inflation rates are determined by comparing the current month’s CPI with that of the same month in the previous year. In India, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) calculates and publishes CPI data at both national and state levels.
Wholesale Price Index (WPI)
While CPI reflects retail price changes, WPI measures wholesale market price changes for goods. It tracks the inflation rate across 697 bulk commodities but excludes the cost of services like haircuts or banking transactions, which are included in CPI.
For example, the WPI inflation rate for October 2024 in India was 2.36%, while the CPI inflation rate for the same period was 6.21%, highlighting differences in their scope and calculation.
GDP Deflator
The GDP deflator measures inflation by tracking changes in the prices of all domestically produced goods and services. It is calculated using the formula:
GDP Deflator = (Nominal GDP ÷ Real GDP) × 100
Unlike CPI, the GDP deflator includes all goods and services produced domestically but excludes imports, making it a comprehensive measure of inflation.
Producer Price Index (PPI)
PPI captures the average price changes received by producers for their goods and services. Unlike CPI, it focuses on prices from the producer’s perspective, excluding taxes, transport costs, and trade margins.
Wage Inflation
Wage inflation measures the rate at which wages increase over time, reflecting changes in labor market dynamics. Labor unions often negotiate wage hikes based on expected inflation to ensure a positive real wage increase. For instance, if inflation is projected at 2%, unions may push for a wage hike exceeding 2% to maintain workers' purchasing power
Follow Up Question
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Answer (C)
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Jyotirao Phule, born on April 11, 1827, belonged to the Mali community, traditionally engaged in gardening and farming. On May 11, 1888, he was honored with the title of "Mahatma" by Vithalrao Krishnaji Vandekar, a social reformer from Maharashtra.
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In 1848, Phule and his supporters established the Satyashodhak Samaj, meaning "Seekers of Truth," to advocate for social and economic equality for the lower castes in Maharashtra. The organization, committed to addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by Dalits, received significant support from Chhatrapati Shahu, the Maratha ruler of Kolhapur.
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Despite limited access to education during his early years and losing his mother at a young age, Phule's potential was recognized by a fellow member of the Mali caste. This individual persuaded Phule's father to enroll him in the local Scottish Mission High School, where he completed his English education in 1847.
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Married at the age of 13, Phule faced personal humiliation in 1848 at a Brahmin friend's wedding. This incident, coupled with his growing awareness of women's plight in society, inspired him to challenge societal norms. He began by educating his wife, Savitribai, and later initiated a school for girls in Pune.
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The couple opened India's first girls' school in Bhidewada, Pune, in 1848, paving the way for more schools catering to girls, Shudras, and Ati-Shudras (backward castes and Dalits). However, this progressive initiative faced opposition from figures like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who argued that educating girls and non-Brahmins undermined cultural identity, equating it with a "loss of nationality."
A. a movement for upliftment of tribals in Bihar
B. a temple-entry movement in Gujarat
C. an anti-caste movement in Maharashtra
D. a peasant movement in Punjab
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Answer (C)
The Satya Shodhak Samaj was founded by Jyotirao Phule in 1873 in Maharashtra. It aimed to challenge the caste system and promote social equality, particularly focusing on the upliftment of lower castes (Shudras and Ati-Shudras) and women. The movement sought to eliminate caste discrimination and worked towards the social and economic empowerment of marginalized communities in Maharashtra
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Haveli Sangeet is a unique and traditional form of devotional music that originated in India, deeply connected to temple rituals and the Bhakti movement. It is primarily associated with the Pushtimarg sect, which was founded by the saint and philosopher Vallabhacharya in the 16th century. The term "Haveli" refers to the temples or shrines where this music was performed, and "Sangeet" means music.
Key Aspects of Haveli Sangeet:
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Historical Background: Vallabhacharya discovered the divine form of Lord Shrinath in the 15th century, and he established a practice of devotional music in temples to honor the deity. This practice was further expanded by his son, Shri Vitthalnath (Shri Gusai), who systematized the ritualistic service known as sewa and introduced the Ashta Sakhas (eight companions), who were instrumental in composing and performing the music.
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Musical Elements: Haveli Sangeet is distinguished by its use of classical music styles, including Dhrupad and Khyal, as well as kirtan (devotional singing). It emphasizes melodies, rhythmic cycles (taals), and the integration of spiritual themes with musical expression. Raag (melody), bhog (offering), and shringar (adornment) are key concepts that are part of the music's performance in the temples.
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Performance and Purpose: The music is typically performed in temples during different times of the day, following the Ashtayam sewa routine, which includes various parts such as Mangala (morning worship), Aarati (evening prayer), and Shayan (nighttime service). The purpose of Haveli Sangeet is not only to entertain but also to create a spiritual atmosphere and express devotion to the deity.
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Continuity and Influence: The survival of Haveli Sangeet is due to the efforts of dedicated practitioners and devotees who have protected its traditions from external influences. It continues to be an important part of the cultural and spiritual life in regions where the Pushtimarg sect has a presence, such as Nathdwara in Rajasthan
1.Which of the following statements regarding Haveli Sangeet is/are correct?
- Haveli Sangeet originated from the temple rituals associated with the Pushtimarg sect founded by Vallabhacharya.
- It is performed exclusively in the Dhrupad style and does not incorporate other classical music forms.
- Shri Vitthalnath (Shri Gusai) played a significant role in systematizing the sewa and introducing the Ashta Sakhas (eight companions) in Haveli Sangeet.
- Haveli Sangeet is performed throughout the day, following the Ashtayam sewa routine, which includes different phases like Mangala, Aarati, and Shayan.
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 and 4 only
C. 1, 3, and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3, and 4
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Answer (C)
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For Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance
For Mains Examination: GS II& III - Governance, Environment&ecology
Context:
Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India) Scheme in 2015 to promote adoption of electric/ hybrid vehicles (xEVs) including electric buses in India. Under this scheme, 425 electric and hybrid buses were deployed across various cities in the country with Government Incentive of about Rs. 280 Cr
Read about:
What is an E- Vehicle?
Significance of E-Vehicle Ecosystem
Key takeaways:
FASTER ADOPTION AND MANUFACTURING OF (HYBRID &) ELECTRICAL VEHICLES (FAME-II) is an initiative by the Indian government aimed at promoting the adoption and manufacturing of electric and hybrid vehicles. Launched in April 2019, it is an extension of the earlier FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) scheme.
Here are the key aspects:
- The main goal is to support the development of the electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem in India, reduce pollution, and decrease dependence on fossil fuels
- The scheme provides financial incentives to buyers of electric and hybrid vehicles to make them more affordable. It includes subsidies for purchasing EVs, charging infrastructure, and advanced battery technologies
- FAME-II covers a range of electric and hybrid vehicles, including two-wheelers, three-wheelers, buses, and cars. It also supports the installation of charging stations and battery swapping stations
- The scheme has a budget allocation of ₹10,000 crore over a period of three years, focusing on increasing the adoption of EVs and building necessary infrastructure
- The scheme is managed by the Department of Heavy Industry, which is responsible for disbursing subsidies and ensuring compliance with the guidelines
The Ministry of Heavy Industries has introduced several initiatives to support the growth of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and the adoption of electric buses in India:
- The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India) Scheme, launched in 2015, aims to encourage the use of electric and hybrid vehicles, including electric buses. This initiative led to the deployment of 425 electric and hybrid buses across various cities, supported by government incentives totaling approximately ₹280 crore.
- The FAME India Scheme Phase-II was introduced in 2019, extending over five years with a total budget of ₹11,500 crore. This phase resulted in the sanctioning of 6,862 electric buses, with government incentives amounting to around ₹3,009 crore.
- The Production Linked Incentive Scheme for the Automobile and Auto Component Industry (PLI-AAT) provides a budget of ₹25,938 crore to boost India’s manufacturing capabilities for advanced automotive products, including electric vehicles and their components. This scheme offers incentives for various types of electric vehicles, such as electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, trucks, and buses
Follow Up Question
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Answer (D)
The FAME Scheme aims to promote the manufacturing of electric and hybrid vehicle technology, stands for Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles, and is part of the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan
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- Antibiotics are often praised for their ability to treat deadly infections and save lives, but their excessive and improper use in humans, animals, and agriculture has significant, often overlooked consequences.
- While it is widely recognized that such practices contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a deeper threat exists in the disruption they cause to the microbiome. This disturbance can impact every organ and function within the body.
Microbiome's Importance
- The human body harbors a complex community of microorganisms known as the microbiome, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. With about 38 trillion microbial cells in our body, they actually outnumber our human cells, which total around 30 trillion.
- The gut microbiome, in particular, is crucial for maintaining health by aiding in digestion, supporting the immune system, producing essential nutrients, and protecting against harmful pathogens. The diversity and balance of these microbial communities are vital to our overall well-being.
Impact of Antibiotics on the Microbiome
- While antibiotics are critical in treating bacterial infections, their overuse can severely disrupt the microbiome. These medications do not differentiate between harmful bacteria and beneficial microbes, leading to a condition known as dysbiosis.
- Dysbiosis, the imbalance in the gut microbiome, can have long-lasting consequences, potentially lasting months or years after antibiotic use.
- It is linked to conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, weakened immune function, and metabolic disorders.
Gut-Organ Interactions
- The gut microbiome interacts with various organs through complex networks known as gut-organ axes. For instance, the gut-brain axis links the gut microbiome to the brain, where imbalances can affect mental health.
- The gut-liver axis involves the transport of bacterial toxins to the liver, potentially worsening liver conditions.
- The gut-skin axis influences skin health, where dysbiosis can exacerbate conditions like acne and eczema. Furthermore, the gut microbiome plays a role in metabolic processes, and its disruption can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic syndromes.
Beyond the Gut
The microbiome's influence extends beyond the gut. The skin microbiome, for example, plays a crucial role in protecting against infections and maintaining skin health. The respiratory tract microbiome helps defend against respiratory infections, and the genitourinary microbiome protects against infections in the urinary and reproductive systems.
Colonization Resistance
- A particularly concerning aspect of antibiotic use is its impact on colonization resistance, the ability of the native gut microbiome to protect against pathogenic microorganisms. Antibiotics can reduce this resistance, allowing harmful bacteria to establish themselves and increase the risk of infections.
- Given the profound effects of antibiotics on the microbiome and the long-term health risks associated with dysbiosis, it is essential to use these medications judiciously.
- Alternatives like better hygiene practices, vaccinations, and bacteriophage use should be considered to reduce antibiotic reliance.
- While antibiotics have revolutionized medicine, their misuse can turn them into harmful agents, underscoring the need for careful and responsible use to preserve the balance of our microbiome and maintain health
1.Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India? ( UPSC CSE 2019)
- Genetic predisposition of some people
- Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases
- Using antibiotics in livestock farming
- Multiple chronic diseases in some people
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4
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Answer (b)
Thus, options 2 and 3 are correct, making (b) 2 and 3 only the right answer |
- UN General Assembly officially introduced a new data-driven “vulnerability” index designed to assist small island states and developing nations in accessing low-interest financing.
- The “Multidimensional Vulnerability Index” (MVI) is intended to complement traditional metrics like GDP by providing additional insights into vulnerability.
- Since the 1990s, small island developing states (SIDS) that do not qualify for low-interest development financing based on GDP per capita but are still susceptible to external shocks such as climate change have advocated for such a measure.
- After extensive discussions to finalize the framework of the new tool, the General Assembly adopted a resolution by consensus on Tuesday, which mandates that the UN and an independent expert committee regularly update the index.
- The MVI, based on recommendations from a UN high-level panel, includes indicators related to a state's structural vulnerabilities and its economic, environmental, and social resilience.
- These indicators cover factors such as reliance on imports, exposure to severe weather events and pandemics, effects of regional conflicts, refugee inflows, demographic pressures, availability of water and arable land, and child mortality rates.
- Initially proposed by small island states, the MVI is designed to assess vulnerabilities and resilience to external shocks across all developing countries, ensuring its credibility and comparability.
- Although the use of the index is voluntary, the resolution encourages UN bodies and multilateral development banks to consider integrating it with existing policies. The Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) has expressed support for the resolution
- Human Development Report (UNDP)
- World Economic Situation and Prospects (UN DESA)
- World Investment Report (UNCTAD)
- Global Education Monitoring Report (UNESCO)
- State of the World's Children Report (UNICEF)
- World Health Statistics (WHO)
- Global Environment Outlook (UNEP)
- World Population Prospects (UN DESA)
- World Migration Report (IOM)
- Global Sustainable Development Report
1.Which of the following reports is NOT published by a United Nations agency?
a) Human Development Report
b) World Economic Outlook
c) Global Education Monitoring Report
d) World Happiness Report
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Answer (b)
While the IMF works closely with the UN and is part of the broader UN system, it is technically an independent international organization and not a UN agency. The IMF was created alongside the World Bank at the Bretton Woods Conference in 1944, separate from the United Nations structure. |
Why is mpox a global health emergency?
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance
For Mains Examination: GS II & III - Policy on public emergencies, Science and Technology
Context:
On August 14 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and other African countries as a “global health emergency”
Key takeaways:
What is Mpox?
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a rare viral zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus in the Poxviridae family. It is characterized by symptoms such as fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. The disease can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals, contaminated materials, or infected individuals.
Here are followings about Mpox:
- Transmission: Mpox spreads through physical contact with an infected person, animals, or contaminated materials. Activities such as hunting, handling, or consuming infected animals can also transmit the virus.
- Symptoms: Initial symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue, followed by a rash that progresses from flat lesions to fluid-filled blisters.
- Clades: There are two genetic clades of mpox: clade I, primarily found in Central and East Africa, and clade II, which is more common in West Africa.
- Treatment: There is no specific treatment for mpox, but supportive care, including medication for pain and fever, is recommended. An antiviral drug (tecovirimat) has been approved for exceptional use.
- Prevention: Vaccines initially developed for smallpox are used to prevent mpox in high-risk individuals
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Recent developments show that mpox infections are now closer to home, with Pakistan reporting three cases as of August 16, according to the health department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. On the same day, Sweden confirmed its first case of the clade I variant of mpox outside Africa. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported over 15,600 cases and 537 deaths this year, with the outbreak spanning 116 countries. The most severe impacts are in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and neighboring areas. In June 2024, the Americas had 19% of the reported cases, while Europe had 11%.
The WHO has escalated the global mpox situation to an acute grade 3 emergency, the highest level on the WHO Emergency Response Framework. This classification demands a substantial to maximum response from the WHO. A Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) represents an extraordinary situation involving the international spread of a disease, potentially requiring a coordinated global effort. The PHEIC designation aims to mobilize prompt international action to prevent the situation from worsening and evolving into a pandemic
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1.The term ‘ACE2’ is talked about in the context of (UPSC CSE 2021)
(a) genes introduced in the genetically modified plants
(b) development of India’s own satellite navigation system
(c) radio collars for wildlife tracking
(d) spread of viral diseases
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Answer (d)
The term ‘ACE2’ is related to (d) spread of viral diseases. ACE2 (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2) is a protein on the surface of cells that acts as a receptor for certain viruses, including the SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for COVID-19. It plays a significant role in the spread and pathogenesis of viral diseases |
| 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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