11 February 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 1. ‘India, Maldives will sort issues bilaterally’ POLITY 1. What does Uttarakhand’s UCC entail? C. GS 3 Related D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials F. Prelims Facts 1. EPFO set to hike interest on PF deposits to 8.25% 2. CSIR NAL flies test-drone that can double up as ‘pseudo satellite’ 3. Serum’s HPV vaccine non-inferior to Gardasil: study G. Tidbits H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
B. GS 2 Related
Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. ‘India, Maldives will sort issues bilaterally’
Syllabus: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests
Mains: India – Maldives relations
Context: Recent discussions between India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives at the Indian Ocean Conference highlighted bilateral and regional concerns, particularly regarding economic cooperation, security, and the presence of foreign vessels in the Indian Ocean Region. Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized the need for India and the Maldives to resolve their issues bilaterally, affirming Sri Lanka’s commitment to regional stability and cooperation.
Issues:
- Tensions have arisen over the return of Indian troops, the entry of Chinese vessels, and critical comments made by Maldivian Ministers, raising concerns about regional stability and security.
- The presence of foreign research vessels in the Indian Ocean Region has been a prominent concern, with growing anxieties over dual-purpose agendas and military build-up, particularly by China.
- Questions have been raised about Sri Lanka’s decision to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Cooperation (RCEP) agreement, especially in light of India’s previous withdrawal from the agreement in 2019.
Significance:
- Bilateral discussions between India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives underscore the importance of regional cooperation and diplomacy in addressing shared concerns and maintaining stability in the Indian Ocean Region.
- Sri Lanka’s decision to join the RCEP reflects its efforts to access external markets and promote economic growth, while also acknowledging the significance of its relationship with India.
Solutions:
- Emphasize the importance of bilateral dialogue and diplomatic channels in resolving regional disputes and addressing security concerns, while respecting the sovereignty of nations involved.
- Strengthen cooperation mechanisms, such as naval exercises and port calls, to enhance maritime security and promote mutual trust among regional stakeholders.
- Encourage transparent communication and collaboration among Indian Ocean Rim countries to address common challenges, including maritime security threats and economic integration.
Nut Graf: The discussions between India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives underscore the complex dynamics and shared interests in the Indian Ocean Region. While challenges remain, continued dialogue and cooperation are essential to addressing security concerns, promoting economic development, and fostering stability in this strategically vital maritime domain.
Category: POLITY
1. What does Uttarakhand’s UCC entail?
Syllabus: Historical underpinnings of the constitution, Evolution of the Constitution
Salient features, Basic structure, Amendments and Significant provisions
Prelims: UCC
Mains: Challenges with UCC
Context: The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill passed by the Uttarakhand Assembly aims to establish common rules regarding marriage, divorce, inheritance of property, and live-in relationships for all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliation. Stemming from Article 44 of the Constitution, which advocates for a uniform civil code, this bill represents a significant step towards achieving social and legal uniformity.
Issues:
- The UCC Bill raises concerns regarding privacy infringement due to mandatory registration of live-in relationships.
- There are apprehensions about the abolition of certain personal law practices, especially among minority communities.
- The Bill’s provisions on divorce and inheritance rights may face scrutiny for their alignment with constitutional principles and existing legal frameworks.
Significance:
- The UCC Bill in Uttarakhand sets a precedent for other states to consider similar legislation, aiming for harmonization of personal laws across the nation.
- It addresses the need for legal clarity and consistency in matters of marriage, divorce, and inheritance, promoting social justice and equality.
Solutions:
- Address privacy concerns by reevaluating the necessity of mandatory registration of live-in relationships and ensuring that individuals’ rights are respected.
- Conduct thorough consultations with diverse stakeholders, including legal experts, religious leaders, and community representatives, to ensure inclusivity and mitigate potential conflicts.
- Provide adequate legal safeguards to protect the rights of minorities and vulnerable groups, ensuring that the UCC respects India’s diverse cultural and religious fabric.
Conclusion:
- The passage of the UCC Bill in Uttarakhand represents a significant milestone in the quest for legal uniformity and social justice. While it signifies progress towards achieving the ideals of Article 44, its implementation requires careful consideration of various socio-legal implications and the diverse needs of Indian society.
Nut Graf: Collaborative efforts and inclusive policymaking are essential to address concerns, uphold constitutional values, and ensure the effective implementation of a uniform civil code
C. GS 3 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
Nothing here for today!!!
F. Prelims Facts
1. EPFO set to hike interest on PF deposits to 8.25%
Context: The Central Board of Trustees (CBT) of the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has recommended an increase in the interest rate on provident fund (PF) deposits from 8.15% to 8.25% for the financial year 2023-24. This move is aimed at enhancing social security for India’s workforce, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of bolstering welfare measures.
Issues:
- The EPFO’s decision to hike the interest rate raises questions about the sustainability of such adjustments and their impact on the organization’s financial health.
- Concerns may arise regarding the equitable distribution of historic income among EPF members, especially considering the growing size of the fund.
Significance:
- The proposed interest rate hike reflects the government’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of workers and ensuring their financial security, particularly in the face of economic challenges.
- The EPFO’s recommendation to distribute a significant portion of historic income to EPF members signals a proactive approach towards enhancing member benefits and promoting savings culture.
Solutions:
- Implement measures to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of the EPFO while balancing the interests of both subscribers and the organization.
- Enhance transparency and accountability in the management of EPF funds, including the equitable distribution of income among members.
- Explore avenues for diversifying investment portfolios and optimizing returns to support future interest rate adjustments without compromising the EPFO’s financial stability.
2. CSIR NAL flies test-drone that can double up as ‘pseudo satellite’
Context: Scientists at the CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) have achieved a significant milestone by successfully testing an unmanned aerial vehicle called High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS). This innovative technology, resembling drones but operating in the stratosphere, holds immense potential for various applications, ranging from surveillance to telecommunications.
Issues:
- Developing High Altitude Pseudo Satellites (HAPS) presents engineering challenges, particularly regarding power generation, lightweight design, and stability during extended flight durations.
- Limited availability of specialized components, such as thin solar-cell films, poses logistical and technological hurdles in building efficient HAPS systems.
Significance:
- HAPS offer unparalleled flexibility and endurance, capable of remaining airborne for extended periods, providing continuous surveillance or telecommunications services.
- The successful testing of a scaled-down HAPS prototype demonstrates India’s growing capabilities in aerospace technology and highlights its potential to become a leader in this domain.
- HAPS have diverse applications, including surveillance, telecommunications, disaster management, and environmental monitoring, contributing to enhanced national security and socio-economic development.
Solutions:
- Continue research and development efforts to address engineering challenges associated with HAPS, focusing on enhancing power generation efficiency, lightweight construction materials, and flight stability.
- Foster collaboration with global partners and leverage international expertise and resources to overcome technological barriers and accelerate the development of HAPS systems.
- Invest in infrastructure and manufacturing capabilities to produce critical components, such as thin solar-cell films, domestically, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and ensuring self-reliance in aerospace technology.
3. Serum’s HPV vaccine non-inferior to Gardasil: study
Context: A recent study published in The Lancet reveals the results of a phase-2/3 trial conducted by the Serum Institute of India on its human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, Cervavac. The study compares the safety and efficacy of Cervavac with Gardasil, manufactured by Merck, and demonstrates promising outcomes in adolescents aged 9-14 years.
Issues:
- Evaluation of the efficacy of HPV vaccines in younger age groups poses challenges due to ethical and logistical constraints, such as genital sampling and prolonged follow-up periods.
- Comparative analysis of immune responses between different age groups and vaccine formulations necessitates the adoption of standardized methodologies and regulatory guidelines.
Significance:
- The study underscores the importance of immunobridging approaches recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) for evaluating the efficacy of HPV vaccines across diverse age groups.
- Cervavac’s demonstration of non-inferiority to Gardasil and its superior antibody response in adolescents highlight its potential as an effective preventive measure against HPV infections, particularly in the target age group.
- By providing empirical evidence of Cervavac’s safety and efficacy, the study contributes to the advancement of public health interventions aimed at reducing the burden of HPV-related diseases.
Solutions:
- Continued adherence to WHO guidelines and regulatory standards in the evaluation and licensure of HPV vaccines, ensuring consistency and comparability of study outcomes.
- Collaboration between vaccine manufacturers, regulatory authorities, and public health agencies to streamline immunobridging methodologies and facilitate data exchange for comprehensive evaluation of vaccine efficacy.
- Enhanced public awareness and engagement efforts to promote HPV vaccination uptake among adolescents and raise awareness about the importance of preventive measures against HPV-related diseases.
G. Tidbits
Nothing here for today!!!
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1. Which of the following statements best describes the purpose of the National Creators Award as mentioned in the article?
- To provide financial assistance to digital creators in India.
- To recognize and celebrate digital innovators and content creators for their contributions to India’s digital landscape.
- To offer technical training to creators in the digital economy.
- To promote international collaborations among digital creators.
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
The purpose of the National Creators Award is to recognize and celebrate digital innovators and content creators for their contributions to India’s digital landscape.
Q2) Consider the following pairs:
| Mineral | Use |
| 1. Lithium | I. Used in the anodes of lithium-ion batteries |
| 2. Cobalt | II. Enhances energy density and battery life in lithium-ion batteries |
| 3. Graphite | III. Key component in battery technology for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems |
| 4. High-Purity Limestone | IV. Raw material in steelmaking and for environmental applications such as flue gas desulfurization |
How many of the above are correctly matched?
- Only one
- Only two
- Only three
- All of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
Cobalt serves multiple vital functions- Enhanced Energy Density- Cobalt, particularly when combined with nickel, contributes to higher energy density in lithium-ion batteries. Graphite provides high capacity to allow high driving range in EVs. Continued development of silicon-graphite composites for future generations will increase overall battery capacity.
Q3) Consider the following in the context of White Hydrogen:
- Degassing of deep hydrogen from Earth’s crust and mantle
- Water in contact with freshly exposed rock surfaces
- Decomposition of organic matter
- Biological activity
- Nuclear reactors
How many of the above can be considered as a source of White Hydrogen?
- Only two
- Only three
- Only four
- All of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:
Source of White Hydrogen Degassing of deep hydrogen from Earth’s crust and mantle, Water in contact with freshly exposed rock surfaces, Decomposition of organic matter and Biological activity
Q4) Consider the following statements:
- The Optical Line Terminal (OLT) is a device located at the end user’s premises that converts optical signals received from the service provider into electrical signals that can be used by the end user’s devices.
- Optical Network Unit (ONU) is situated at the service provider’s central office, where it sends and receives optical signals to and from the connected premises through the passive optical distribution network.
- A Passive Optical Network (PON) is a broadband network technology that utilizes active optical components like amplifiers and repeaters to distribute the signal from a single fiber optic line to multiple homes or buildings.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- None of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation:
An OLT (optical line terminal), also known as optical line termination, acts as the endpoint hardware device in a passive optical network. The ONU communicates with the optical line terminal (OLT) located at the service provider’s central office. The OLT manages the overall network and controls the data transmission between the ONU and the core network. One of the key features of an ONU is its ability to handle different types of network services. A passive optical network (PON) is a fiber-optic network utilizing a point-to-multipoint topology and optical splitters to deliver data from a single transmission point to multiple user endpoints. Passive, in this context, refers to the unpowered condition of the fiber and splitting/combining components.
Q5) In the context of recent advances of human reproductive technology, “Pronuclear Transfer” is used for
- fertilization of egg in vitro by the donor sperm
- development of stem cells into functional embryos
- genetic modification of sperm producing cells
- prevention of mitochondrial diseases in offspring
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation:
Pronuclear Transfer” is used for prevention of mitochondrial diseases in offspring.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- Elaborating the concept of Uniform Civil Code(UCC), discuss the arguments which revolves around the issue. (10 marks, 150 words) [GS-2, Social Issues]
- Indian Ocean Region(IOR) is increasingly becoming important. Analyse India’s engagement in the region. (15 marks, 250 words) [GS-2, International Relations]
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