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Critical Topics and Their Significance for the UPSC CSE Examination on December 31, 2024
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The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is one of the six main organs of the United Nations, responsible for maintaining international peace and security. Established in 1945, the UNSC plays a central role in addressing conflicts, promoting peaceful settlements, and authorizing peacekeeping missions. Its primary functions include:
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Maintaining International Peace and Security: The UNSC investigates disputes or situations that could lead to international conflict and recommends peaceful resolutions. It also decides on the deployment of peacekeeping forces to conflict areas.
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Authorizing Military Action: In extreme cases, the UNSC can authorize the use of force to maintain or restore peace. It also imposes sanctions to enforce its decisions.
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Adopting Binding Resolutions: The decisions of the UNSC are binding on all UN member states, making it the most powerful UN body.
Composition:
The UNSC consists of 15 member states, divided into:
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5 Permanent Members (P5):
- China
- France
- Russia
- United Kingdom
- United States
These five countries hold veto power, meaning any one of them can block the adoption of a resolution, even if the other members support it.
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10 Non-Permanent Members: Elected for two-year terms by the United Nations General Assembly, these members represent different regions of the world. They do not have veto power but can vote on resolutions.
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, after World War II, to promote global peace, security, cooperation, and human rights. It currently has 193 member states and operates through various wings or specialized agencies and organs to address different global issues. These wings work in areas such as peacekeeping, development, humanitarian assistance, and international law.
Principal Organs of the United Nations
The UN has six main organs that carry out its broad mandate:
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United Nations General Assembly (UNGA):
- A deliberative body where all 193 member states are represented. Each member has one vote, and it discusses international issues and adopts resolutions on global matters.
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United Nations Security Council (UNSC):
- Responsible for maintaining international peace and security. It consists of 15 members, including 5 permanent members with veto power (China, France, Russia, the UK, and the USA), and 10 rotating non-permanent members.
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International Court of Justice (ICJ):
- The main judicial body of the UN, located in The Hague, Netherlands. It settles disputes between states and gives advisory opinions on international legal issues.
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United Nations Secretariat:
- The administrative arm of the UN, headed by the UN Secretary-General. It carries out the day-to-day work of the organization in areas like peacekeeping, diplomacy, and organizing conferences.
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United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC):
- Coordinates the economic, social, and environmental work of the UN and its specialized agencies. It fosters international cooperation on development issues.
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Trusteeship Council (inactive since 1994):
- Originally created to supervise the administration of trust territories and ensure their path to self-governance. It has been inactive since the last trust territory, Palau, gained independence
1.The United Nations, through its various specialized agencies and programs, plays a pivotal role in addressing global challenges like poverty, conflict, climate change, and human rights violations. Critically analyze the effectiveness of the United Nations system in promoting international peace and development. What reforms are necessary to enhance its role in the 21st century?" (250 words)
List of Classical Languages in India:
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Tamil
- Declared: 2004
- Antiquity: The oldest Dravidian language, with Sangam literature dating back over 2000 years.
- Key Literature: Sangam poetry, Thirukkural, and ancient Tamil epics like Silappatikaram and Manimekalai.
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Sanskrit
- Declared: 2005
- Antiquity: Over 3500 years old, with Vedic texts like the Rigveda dating back to 1500 BCE.
- Key Literature: Vedas, Upanishads, Mahabharata, Ramayana, and classical works by Kalidasa.
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Kannada
- Declared: 2008
- Antiquity: Has a recorded history of more than 1500 years, with inscriptions and literature from the 5th century CE.
- Key Literature: Kavirajamarga, Pampa Bharata, and the works of poets like Pampa and Ranna.
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Telugu
- Declared: 2008
- Antiquity: Literary works date back to the 11th century CE, and inscriptions exist from 575 CE.
- Key Literature: Nannaya's Mahabharatamu, and later works by poets like Tikkana and Pothana.
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Malayalam
- Declared: 2013
- Antiquity: Evolved as a distinct language around the 9th century CE, with its literature developing in the 12th century.
- Key Literature: Ramacharitam, Thunchaththu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan’s Adhyathmaramayanam.
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Odia
- Declared: 2014
- Antiquity: Has a distinct literary tradition dating back to the 10th century CE, with inscriptions from the 3rd century BCE.
- Key Literature: Sarala Mahabharata, and works by poets like Upendra Bhanja and Jagannatha Das.
India is home to a rich cultural heritage, and its classical dance forms are a reflection of the country's diverse traditions and history. The Classical Dances of India are recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, and they follow strict guidelines based on the principles of the ancient text Natyashastra, which lays the foundation for classical Indian performing arts. These dance forms often incorporate music, rhythm, and storytelling through stylized movements and expressions.
Here is a list of the major Classical Dances of India:
1. Bharatanatyam
- Origin: Tamil Nadu
- Characteristics: Known for its fixed upper torso, bent legs, and intricate footwork, Bharatanatyam includes hand gestures (mudras) and facial expressions (abhinaya) to convey emotions and stories. It is often performed to Carnatic music.
- Themes: Devotional themes, primarily dedicated to Hindu gods and goddesses.
- Famous Exponent: Rukmini Devi Arundale.
2. Kathak
- Origin: North India (Uttar Pradesh)
- Characteristics: Kathak is characterized by swift spins, intricate footwork, and fluid movements. The dancers tell stories through expressive gestures and facial expressions. It has two distinct styles: Hindu temple dance and Mughal court dance.
- Themes: Mythological stories, Persian-influenced narratives, and Mughal court tales.
- Famous Exponent: Birju Maharaj.
3. Kathakali
- Origin: Kerala
- Characteristics: Kathakali is a highly stylized dance-drama known for elaborate costumes, vivid makeup, and expressive gestures. The dancers, mostly male, wear striking masks and costumes and portray characters from Indian epics.
- Themes: Stories from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, often involving good versus evil.
- Famous Exponent: Kalamandalam Gopi.
4. Kuchipudi
- Origin: Andhra Pradesh
- Characteristics: Kuchipudi combines dance, music, and acting. It often involves quick, rhythmic footwork, graceful body movements, and dramatic storytelling. Dancers sometimes speak dialogues and are trained in both singing and dancing.
- Themes: Devotional and mythological themes, often involving stories of Lord Krishna.
- Famous Exponent: Yamini Krishnamurthy.
5. Manipuri
- Origin: Manipur
- Characteristics: Manipuri is known for its soft, graceful, and delicate movements. It is distinct for its rounded movements and light footwork. The dancers wear intricate costumes, and the dance has a spiritual essence, often associated with Vaishnavism.
- Themes: Stories of Radha and Krishna, Vaishnava devotional themes.
- Famous Exponent: Guru Bipin Singh.
6. Mohiniyattam
- Origin: Kerala
- Characteristics: Mohiniyattam is a graceful dance form performed by women. It is characterized by soft, swaying body movements and delicate footwork. The costume is typically white with gold borders, and the dance is accompanied by classical Carnatic music.
- Themes: Based on Hindu mythology, particularly stories involving Vishnu in the form of Mohini, the enchantress.
- Famous Exponent: Kalamandalam Kalyanikutty Amma.
7. Odissi
- Origin: Odisha
- Characteristics: Odissi is known for its fluid, graceful, and intricate movements. It incorporates tribhangi (three bends of the body: neck, torso, and knees) and square-shaped stances. The dance form has distinct facial expressions and detailed hand gestures.
- Themes: Devotional themes, particularly stories of Lord Jagannath, Krishna, and other Hindu gods.
- Famous Exponent: Kelucharan Mohapatra.
8. Sattriya
- Origin: Assam
- Characteristics: Sattriya is a dance form that originated in the Vaishnavite monasteries of Assam. It is a combination of dance, drama, and spiritual expression. The movements are rhythmic, and the dance is performed in a group or solo.
- Themes: Stories from Bhagavata Purana, episodes from Krishna’s life.
- Famous Exponent: Guru Bhabananda Barbayan.
1.Which of the following languages are recognized as Classical Languages by the Government of India?
- Tamil
- Telugu
- Marathi
- Kannada
- Malayalam
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A) 1, 2, 3, and 4
B) 1, 2, 4, and 5
C) 2, 3, 4, and 5
D) 1, 3, 4, and 5
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Answer (B)
Classical Languages by the Government of India:
Based on this information, the languages from the given list that are recognized as Classical Languages are:
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International Big Cat Alliance and India
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance
For Mains Examination: GS III - Environment & Ecology
Context:
India recently joined the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). In this Wildlife Week, let's learn about Big Cats, their habitats, the significant steps taken by the government for their conservation, and more
Read about:
What is International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)?
What is Project Cheetah?
Key takeaways:
As India observes Wildlife Week 2024, it’s essential to highlight a significant development regarding the country’s wildlife. In September of this year, India officially became a member of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). The IBCA was established last year to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger, and its mission is to promote awareness about the conservation of seven big cat species.
India is home to five of these seven big cats: the tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, and cheetah, with the puma and jaguar being the exceptions. This raises several questions: What defines these big cats, how do they differ from one another, and what are their habitats? What are their population figures, and what significant actions has the government taken for their conservation? Here’s a comprehensive overview of the seven big cats.
Tiger (Panthera Tigris)
The tiger has two recognized subspecies: Panthera tigris tigris (the continental tiger) and Panthera tigris sondaica (the Sunda tiger). Tigers primarily rely on their sight and hearing for hunting rather than smell, usually stalking their prey alone. According to the World Wildlife Fund, a tiger can consume more than 80 pounds of meat in a single meal.
As reported in the fifth cycle of the All India Tiger Estimation 2022, India has approximately 3,167 tigers, representing over 70% of the world’s wild tiger population.
Conservation Efforts
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Indian Board for Wildlife (IBWL): The International Union for Conservation of Nature has endorsed the board’s recommendation to prohibit the export of wild cat skins, including those of tigers.
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Project Tiger: Launched in 1973, this centrally sponsored initiative was established in nine reserves across states like Assam, Bihar, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and West Bengal.
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National Tiger Conservation Authority: Following amendments to the Wildlife (Protection) Act in 2006, the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau and the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) were set up as statutory bodies based on the Tiger Task Force report.
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Bilateral Cooperation: India has been working with neighboring nations to strengthen transboundary conservation efforts, such as with Bangladesh to support tiger conservation in the Sundarbans. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between India and Cambodia focusing on “Cooperation in biodiversity conservation and sustainable wildlife management recovery strategies for tigers and their habitats,” as stated on the Ministry of External Affairs website.
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Conservation Assured Tiger Standards (CA|TS) Accreditation: This international accreditation framework evaluates management practices in tiger reserves to ensure compliance with strict conservation standards.
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International Big Cats Alliance (IBCA): Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023, the IBCA aims to enhance the protection of seven big cats: the tiger, leopard, snow leopard, lion, cheetah, puma, and jaguar. The initiative was announced during a program celebrating 50 years of Project Tiger and seeks to foster connections with various countries that share habitats with these big cats, enhancing international cooperation and conservation efforts for these magnificent animals
1.Consider the following: (2012)
- Black-necked crane
- Cheetah
- Flying squirrel
- Snow leopard
Which of the above are naturally found in India?
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
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Answer (b)
Thus, the species that are currently naturally found in India are the Black-necked crane, Flying squirrel, and Snow leopard |
India withdraws its Canada envoy, expels 6 Canadian diplomats as row over Nijjar murder escalates
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance
For Mains Examination: GS II - International relations
Context:
A sharp escalation of the row between the two countries, India on Monday ordered the expulsion of six Canadian diplomats, while also announcing its decision to withdraw the Indian High Commissioner to Canada and “other targeted diplomats”, citing security concerns after Ottawa identified them as “persons of interest” in its investigation into the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
Read about:
What is Five Eyes Alliance?
India and Canada relationship
Key takeawyas:
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Canada is home to one of the largest Indian communities worldwide, with approximately 1.6 million people of Indian origin, which makes up over 3% of the country's total population, along with 700,000 Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). In 2022, India became the leading source of foreign students in Canada, with 230,000 Indian students. India’s total trade with Canada (both goods and services) amounted to $11.68 billion in 2021-22, falling short of potential. Notably, around 30% of India's total pulse imports come from Canada.
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Canadian pension funds have invested about $55 billion in India. Since 2000, cumulative Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from Canada into India stands at $4.07 billion. Despite challenges, such as the suspension of trade negotiations and the ongoing Khalistan issue, these economic ties have persisted.
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According to the 2021 Canadian census, Sikhs comprise 2.1% of Canada’s population and represent the fastest-growing religious group in the country. After India, Canada has the second-largest Sikh population globally. Sikh representation in Canadian politics is significant, with Sikh lawmakers and officials serving at all levels of government. Jagmeet Singh made history in 2017 by becoming the first Sikh leader of a major political party, heading the New Democratic Party (NDP).
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The principle of reciprocity in international law means granting foreigners equal treatment to citizens as regulated by specific intergovernmental agreements. It allows for the mutual application of legal measures when these are equally accepted by the involved nations, promoting equality and mutual respect in international relations.
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India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) recently received a diplomatic note from Canada suggesting that the Indian High Commissioner and other diplomats are "persons of interest" in an investigation. India rejected these claims, attributing them to the Trudeau government’s domestic political agenda.
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Although the MEA statement didn’t mention Nijjar by name, it alluded to allegations made by Trudeau in September 2023, accusing India of potential involvement in the death of the Khalistani separatist in June 2023. India dismissed these accusations as unfounded, and diplomatic relations between the two countries have deteriorated since then.
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India further accused the Trudeau government of fostering an environment in which violent extremists and terrorists intimidate Indian diplomats and leaders in Canada. It also noted that some individuals who entered Canada illegally have been expedited for citizenship, and multiple Indian extradition requests for terrorists and organized crime leaders have been ignored.
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The MEA pointed to past instances of Trudeau’s "hostility" towards India, citing his 2018 visit that was criticized for pandering to a particular vote bank, and the inclusion of individuals with extremist views in his cabinet. Trudeau’s 2020 support for farmers protesting in India also strained relations.
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India claims that Trudeau’s latest actions against Indian diplomats are a deflection from criticism over foreign interference in Canadian politics, particularly as Trudeau was about to testify before a Commission on the issue. This situation, according to India, serves to further the separatist agenda that the Trudeau government has catered to for political gain
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Answer (D)
Now, let's evaluate the statements: Statement 1: "European Commission represents the EU in trade negotiations whereas the European Council participates in the legislation of matters pertaining to economic policies of the European Union."
Statement 2: "European Commission comprises of the Heads of State or government of member countries whereas the European Council comprises of the persons nominated by European Parliament."
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The unemployment rate for individuals aged 15 and above remained steady at 3.2% from July 2023 to June 2024, according to the annual labour force survey report released on Monday.
Unemployment rate (UR) refers to the percentage of unemployed individuals within the labour force. The report noted a slight drop in the UR for males, from 3.3% in the period July 2022 – June 2023 to 3.2% in July 2023 – June 2024, while for females, the rate rose from 2.9% to 3.2% over the same timeframe.
Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR)
The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for individuals aged 15 years and above was 60.1% in the period July 2023 – June 2024, an increase from 57.9% in the previous year. The LFPR for males and females was 78.8% and 41.7%, respectively.
LFPR refers to the proportion of individuals in the labour force (either working or actively seeking work) within the overall population. For females in the same age group, LFPR rose from 37% in the period July 2022 – June 2023 to 41.7% in July 2023 – June 2024. The male LFPR saw a smaller increase, from 78.5% to 78.8% in the same timeframe.
Worker Population Ratio (WPR)
The Worker Population Ratio (WPR) in usual status stood at 58.2% during July 2023 – June 2024, up from 56% in the previous year. For males, WPR was 76.3%, and for females, it reached 40.3%. The WPR for females aged 15 and above increased from 35.9% during July 2022 – June 2023 to 40.3% in July 2023 – June 2024.
WPR refers to the percentage of employed individuals within the overall population.
Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS)
Recognizing the need for frequent labour force data, the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) introduced the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) in April 2017.
Objectives of the PLFS
The PLFS aims to achieve two key goals:
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To estimate key employment and unemployment indicators, such as the Worker Population Ratio, Labour Force Participation Rate, and Unemployment Rate, on a quarterly basis for urban areas using the ‘Current Weekly Status’ (CWS).
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To provide annual estimates of employment and unemployment indicators in both rural and urban areas using both the ‘Usual Status’ and ‘CWS’ metrics. Six annual reports have already been published, based on data from July 2017 – June 2018 to July 2022 – June 2023.
The seventh annual report, covering July 2023 – June 2024, is now being released by the NSSO based on data from the Periodic Labour Force Survey
Types of LFPR:
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- Overall LFPR: Reflects the total percentage of people working or seeking work in the population.
- Gender-specific LFPR: Differentiates between male and female participation in the workforce.
- Age-specific LFPR: Focuses on particular age groups, such as those 15 years and above
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Answer (B)
However, the drop in female LFPR cannot be fully explained by these factors alone. Other reasons, such as the lack of suitable employment opportunities, social norms, and the burden of unpaid domestic work, also play significant roles. Thus, while both statements are true, (R) does not completely explain (A). |
Make in India Initiative: A Comprehensive Overview
Launch and Objective:
- Launched: September 25, 2014, by the Government of India.
- Objective: To transform India into a global manufacturing hub, enhance investment, foster innovation, and generate employment.
Key Sectors Covered: Initially, 25 sectors were identified, such as:
- Automobiles
- Pharmaceuticals
- Textiles and Garments
- Chemicals
- Information Technology and Business Process Management
- Food Processing
- Renewable Energy
- Railways
- Ports and Shipping
- Aviation, etc.
Key Features:
- Ease of Doing Business: Simplifying regulations, fast-tracking approvals, and reducing red tape to improve India's rank in the Ease of Doing Business Index.
- FDI Reforms: Liberalizing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) norms in various sectors like defense, railways, and construction.
- Skill Development: Focusing on skill enhancement through programs such as the Skill India initiative to create a skilled workforce.
- Infrastructure Development: Strengthening infrastructure with initiatives like industrial corridors and smart cities to support manufacturing.
Achievements:
- Improved Ease of Doing Business: India's ranking improved from 142 in 2014 to 63 in 2019.
- FDI Inflows: The country witnessed record FDI inflows, making it a top destination for investment.
- Growth in Manufacturing: Several sectors, such as electronics and automotive, saw significant growth due to the initiative.
1.What is/are the recent policy initiative(s)of Government of India to promote the growth of manufacturing sector? (2012)
- Setting up of National Investment and Manufacturing Zones
- Providing the benefit of ‘single window clearance’
- Establishing the Technology Acquisition and Development Fund
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
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Answer (d)
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| 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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