11 June 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related GEOGRAPHY 1. Heat: how it animates engines and global warming 2. Understand the Indian Ocean and you’ll understand much about earth B. GS 2 Related C. GS 3 Related D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 1. From warp speed to reset, the state of India-U.S. ties ENVIRONMENT 1. A push for more climate action POLITY 1. On Special Category Status for Andhra F. Prelims Facts 1. Why India needs a third aircraft carrier 2. PM Kisan Nidhi installment released to 9.3-cr. farmers 3. India welcomes Egypt, Iran, UAE, Saudi Arabia and Ethiopia joining BRICS G. Tidbits H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
Category: GEOGRAPHY
1. Heat: how it animates engines and global warming
Syllabus: Important Geophysical Phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location – changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.
Mains: Heat and Climate Change RelationshipÂ
Context​: Heat plays a crucial role in both technological advancements and environmental dynamics. Understanding the microscopic and macroscopic characteristics of heat has significantly contributed to various fields, including metallurgy, mining, and chemical reactions. From its role in the Industrial Revolution to its impact on global warming, heat remains a fundamental aspect of human life and technological progress.
The Nature of Heat
- Microscopic Perspective: At a microscopic level, heat is the average kinetic energy of an object’s particles. When two bodies at different temperatures come into contact, heat is transferred from the hotter to the cooler body until thermal equilibrium is reached.
- Macroscopic Perspective: Macroscopically, heat is treated as a form of energy with specific characteristics, analyzed through thermodynamics and statistical mechanics.
Applications of Heat
- Internal Combustion Engines (ICEs): ICEs convert heat into mechanical work, based on the principles of the Carnot cycle. The cycle involves four steps: isothermal expansion, isentropic expansion, isothermal compression and isentropic compression.
- Thermal Power Plants: Thermal power plants utilize the Rankine cycle to convert heat into electrical energy. The cycle includes isentropic compression, heat addition, isentropic expansion and heat removal.
Heat and Work
- Heat and Work Relationship: Heat and work have the same physical dimensions but are not entirely interchangeable. Entropy, representing disorder in a system, plays a critical role in determining the efficiency of heat conversion to work.
- Adiabatic Processes: Processes that occur without heat exchange are termed adiabatic and are reversible, minimizing entropy changes and energy loss.
Broader Applications of Heat
- Material Sciences: Heat is crucial in metallurgy, materials science, mining, and refining processes.
- HVAC Systems: Heat is essential for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, ensuring thermal comfort in various environments.
- Technological Cycles: Various cycles like the Brayton, gas-generator, regenerative, Siemens, and Stirling cycles utilize heat for different technological applications.
Issues
Heat and Climate Change
- Heat Waves: Heat waves pose significant health risks, especially in regions with limited access to cooling facilities. Wet-bulb temperatures above 32°C can be deadly, even with minimal physical exertion.
- Global Warming: Heat is a core element of global warming. Greenhouse gases trap heat, reducing the Earth’s ability to cool down efficiently, leading to an overall increase in global temperatures.
Significance
Technological Advancements
- Industrial Revolution: The development of steam engines and heat-based technologies marked the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, transforming industries and economies.
- Modern Technologies: Heat continues to drive innovations in energy production, transportation, and climate control systems.
Environmental Impact
- Climate Mitigation: Reducing heat emissions through alternative energy sources and improving efficiency in existing technologies is crucial for mitigating climate change.
- Climate Adaptation: Enhancing adaptive measures, such as improving living conditions and access to cooling facilities, is vital for coping with the effects of global warming.
Solutions
Technological Innovations
- Renewable Energy: Investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, reduces dependence on fossil fuels and decreases heat emissions.
- Energy Efficiency: Developing more efficient engines and power plants minimizes heat loss and maximizes energy output.
Policy Measures
- Incentives for Green Technologies: Governments can incentivize the adoption of green technologies through subsidies, tax breaks, and regulations.
- Heat Management Strategies: Implementing comprehensive heat management strategies, including urban planning and infrastructure improvements, can help mitigate the impacts of heat waves.
Nut Graf: Heat, as a fundamental form of energy, has been instrumental in technological progress and poses significant challenges in the context of global warming. Understanding and managing heat is crucial for sustainable development and environmental preservation. As the world grapples with climate change, innovative solutions and effective policies are essential to harness the benefits of heat while mitigating its adverse effects.
2. Understand the Indian Ocean and you’ll understand much about earth
Syllabus: Important Geophysical Phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location – changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.
Mains: Significance of Indian Ocean for world climate
Context​: The Indian Ocean, renowned for its dramatic monsoon winds and vital rains, is critical for understanding Earth’s climate system. It is among the fastest-warming oceans, influencing global heat distribution, marine ecosystems, and weather patterns. This ocean plays a pivotal role in controlling global warming and has historical significance in human evolution.
The Importance of the Indian Ocean
- Monsoon Winds and Rain: The Indian Ocean’s monsoon winds bring essential rain to the Indian subcontinent, supporting over a billion people with water for drinking, agriculture, and energy production.
- Warming Trends: Rapid warming of the Indian Ocean has severe consequences for regional heatwaves and rainfall patterns, impacting weather predictability and agricultural productivity.
Marine Ecosystems and Economic Significance
- Marine Biodiversity: The warm waters support diverse marine life, including fisheries of anchovies, mackerel, sardines, and tuna, as well as tourism-attracting dolphins and whales.
- Coral Reefs: The region’s coral reefs, from Lakshadweep to the Andaman-Nicobar Islands, are vital for marine biodiversity and tourism but are threatened by rising temperatures.
Geopolitical and Climatic Influence
- Unique Geographical Features: The Indian Ocean’s northern boundary is closed off by the Asian landmass, with only narrow connections to the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea. Its southern part is connected to the Pacific and Southern Oceans through oceanic tunnels, influencing global water circulation and heat distribution.
- Inter-Oceanic Interaction: The Indonesian Throughflow and connections with the Southern Ocean affect the Indian Ocean’s temperature, salinity, and overall climatic impact.
Issues
- Cyclones: Increasing frequency and intensity of pre-monsoon cyclones pose significant threats to coastal populations in South Asia, East Africa, and West Asia.
- Marine Heatwaves: Rising temperatures lead to marine heatwaves, endangering coral reefs and fisheries, which are crucial for local economies and biodiversity.
- Global Warming: The Indian Ocean’s warming affects global climatic patterns by influencing heat uptake and distribution, impacting the Pacific Ocean’s ability to moderate global temperatures.
Significance
- Climate Regulation: The Indian Ocean’s warming patterns and heat distribution are essential for understanding and mitigating global warming.
- Historical Impact on Evolution: Changes in the Indian Ocean’s configuration around three million years ago may have contributed to significant climatic shifts in East Africa, potentially influencing human evolution by transforming rainforests into grasslands.
Solutions
- Climate Monitoring: Enhanced monitoring of temperature changes and cyclonic activity in the Indian Ocean is crucial for early warning systems and disaster preparedness.
- Marine Conservation: Protecting and restoring coral reefs and sustainable fisheries management are vital for maintaining marine biodiversity and supporting local economies.
- Global Cooperation: International efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are necessary to mitigate the Indian Ocean’s rapid warming and its broader climatic impacts.
Nut Graf: The Indian Ocean, despite being the smallest of the three major oceans, has an outsized influence on global climate and weather patterns. Its rapid warming and unique geographical features make it a critical area of study for understanding and addressing global warming. On World Oceans Day, reflecting on the Indian Ocean’s significant role in climate regulation and human history underscores the importance of preserving and studying this vital ecosystem.
B. GS 2 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
C. GS 3 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. From warp speed to reset, the state of India-U.S. ties
Syllabus: GS-2, Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests
Mains: India-U.S. relations
Introduction:Â
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the U.S. was marked a year ago, with significant strategic and high-tech cooperation announcements.
- The U.S.-India initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) was highlighted as a major success.
- Despite ambitious goals, the pace of relationship development has slowed due to various external and internal factors.
Achievements and Positive Developments:
- Celebrated 25 years of improved ties post-Pokhran, initiated by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s 1998 speech.
- Strengthened strategic ties in climate change, green energy, critical technologies, and outer space.
- Improved military cooperation with foundational agreements, military exercises, and defence hardware purchases.
- Reduced past irritants: De-hyphenation of U.S.-India ties with Pakistan, silence on Jammu-Kashmir, and increased engagement in Quad and Indo-Pacific strategies.
- Shared concerns over China’s aggression have aligned Delhi and Washington internationally.
Areas of Concern and Differences:
- Differences over Russia’s war in Ukraine: The U.S. focuses on international law and humanitarian principles, while India considers historical context and impacts on the Global South.
- The U.S. has withdrawn objections to India’s purchase of Russian exports, while India has postponed the annual India-Russia summit.
- Issues in multilateral cooperation, particularly concerning China and Taiwan, and logistical challenges affecting Quad cooperation.
Challenges and Ongoing Issues:
- No Indian Ambassador in Washington for months, strained ties with the U.S. Ambassador in India, and concerns over comments on human rights and democracy.
- The U.S.’s response to India’s general election and its commendation of civil society and journalists have strained relations further.
- Allegations of Indian involvement in the assassination attempts of Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in New York and Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada have created discomfort.
- U.S. demands for accountability in the alleged plots and ongoing investigations are expected to affect relations further.
Future Prospects:
- India must navigate new coalition realities and the closing window of engagement with the U.S. government.
- The possibility of a Trump presidency introduces potential uncertainties.
- The upcoming Biden-Modi meeting and the visit by U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan to complete the iCET review are critical for restarting and strengthening bilateral ties.
Nut Graf: India-U.S. relations, marked by strategic and high-tech cooperation, face challenges from geopolitical differences, strained diplomatic ties, and unresolved assassination allegations, necessitating renewed efforts for collaboration and trust-building as global dynamics and political landscapes continue to evolve.
Category: ENVIRONMENT
1. A push for more climate action
Syllabus: Environmental Pollution and Degradation
Mains: Sea level rise, ocean pollution and responsibility of developed nationsÂ
Introduction: Milestone in International Climate Litigation
- On May 21, 2024, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) delivered an advisory opinion requested by the Commission of Small Island States on Climate Change and International Law (COSIS).
- COSIS, established in 2021, sought clarification on the specific obligations of Parties to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) regarding climate change mitigation.
- This opinion coincides with pending advisory proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the “Obligations of States in respect of Climate Change”.
Key Elements of the Advisory Opinion:
- ITLOS took a significant step by accepting the request from COSIS, aiming to define the obligations of states not party to the COSIS Agreement.
- Under Article 194(1) of UNCLOS, states have specific obligations to prevent, reduce, and control marine pollution from anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
- The opinion clarifies that carbon dioxide emissions qualify as pollutants under Article 1(1)(4) of UNCLOS.
Legal and Environmental Implications:Â
- ITLOS’s clarification supports the scientific understanding that the ocean absorbs a significant amount of CO2, leading to ocean acidification and higher temperatures, which contribute to sea-level rise.
- The principle of prevention or the no-harm rule is typically bilateral but now extends to collective interests in climate change mitigation.
Understanding the Legal Importance:
- The Opinion emphasises the need for necessary measures based on the best available science and relevant international agreements, including the Paris Agreement’s 1.5° Celsius goal.
- ITLOS describes the obligation as a due diligence standard, given the high risks of serious and irreversible harm to the marine environment.
- The general obligation to reduce GHG emissions does not imply an immediate cessation but highlights the necessity of gradual reduction measures.
- Christina Voigt, an environmental law expert, notes that while most states are taking some action, the critical issue is the standard of conduct related to this obligation.
- The Netherlands Supreme Court’s decision in Urgenda Foundation vs The Netherlands exemplifies a concrete mitigation target based on scientific estimates.
- ITLOS’s opinion does not provide a concrete methodology for assessing a state’s mitigation action level but emphasises equity and states’ capabilities.
Political and Symbolic Significance:
- Though advisory opinions lack legal force, they carry political weight as authoritative judicial pronouncements.
- The ITLOS opinion underlines that states do not have unfettered discretion in addressing climate change, marking a significant step in international climate action.
Nut Graf: The ITLOS advisory opinion clarifies UNCLOS obligations for climate change mitigation, emphasising state responsibilities to reduce marine pollution from greenhouse gases, supporting scientific consensus on oceanic impacts, and highlighting the importance of due diligence and equity in international climate action.
Category: POLITY
1. On Special Category Status for Andhra
Syllabus: Issues and Challenges Pertaining to the Federal Structure
Mains: Need for ‘Special Category Status’ State
Background and Current Scenario:Â
- The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, bifurcated unified Andhra Pradesh into two States.
- The Act did not mention Special Category Status (SCS) for Andhra Pradesh.
- With the 2024 Lok Sabha elections completed, the demand for SCS for Andhra Pradesh has resurfaced.
History of SCS for Andhra Pradesh:
- In a Rajya Sabha debate on February 20, 2014, then-Prime Minister Manmohan Singh promised SCS to Andhra Pradesh for five years.
- This promise was supported by BJP leader M. Venkaiah Naidu.
- After Narendra Modi became Prime Minister, the SCS promise was sidelined.
- The 14th Finance Commission equated SCS with general category status, annulling SCS for new States.
Why Andhra Pradesh Does Not Qualify for SCS:
- SCS was introduced in 1969 to benefit States with socio-economic issues and geographical disadvantages.
- Five criteria for SCS: Majority tribal population, low population density, hilly terrain, proximity to international borders, socio-economic and industrial backwardness, and inadequate State finances.
- Current SCS States include Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, and Uttarakhand.
- Andhra Pradesh does not meet these criteria.
Special Package for Andhra Pradesh:
- In lieu of SCS, Andhra Pradesh was offered a special package (SP).
- The SP included full funding for the Polavaram irrigation project, tax concessions, and special assistance.
- Chandrababu Naidu, then Chief Minister, accepted the SP, leading to criticism from opposition parties.
Current Relevance of SCS:
- N.K. Singh, Chairman of the 15th Finance Commission, noted that the 14th Finance Commission did not explicitly rule out SCS and left the decision to the Union Government.
- Andhra Pradesh received increased tax devolution (42%) and revenue deficit grants instead of SCS.
- The funding arrangement of 90:10 ((90% the Centre and 10% the State)) for SCS could still be considered by the Union Government.
Renewed Demand for SCS:
- Andhra Pradesh faces a revenue deficit and high debt.
- Development projects, including the new capital at Amaravati, are stalled and need funding.
- With the TDP again part of the NDA alliance, there is hope that the Centre will reconsider SCS for Andhra Pradesh to support its development.
Nut Graf: The demand for Special Category Status (SCS) for Andhra Pradesh has resurfaced post-2024 elections, driven by economic challenges and development needs. Despite previous rejections, renewed political dynamics and fiscal deficits fuel hopes for reconsideration of SCS by the Union Government.
F. Prelims Facts
1. Why India needs a third aircraft carrier
Context: Recent media reports suggest that the Indian Navy’s long-standing demand for a third aircraft carrier is nearing realization. Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) is set to begin construction of the Indigenous Aircraft Carrier-2 (IAC-2), an upgraded Vikrant-class platform. This project aims to bolster India’s naval capabilities and maintain CSL’s expertise in carrier construction.
Rationale for a Third Aircraft Carrier
- Maintaining Expertise: Building IAC-2 ensures that CSL retains its carrier-building skills, preventing a repeat of the ‘lost decade’ experienced by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL) between 1995 and 2005 when their submarine-building expertise dissipated.
- Strategic Necessity: IAC-2 will supplement INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant, fulfilling the requirement for one carrier on each seaboard and one in reserve.
- Geopolitical Importance: Enhancing carrier capabilities is vital for projecting power and maintaining strategic dominance in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Future Concerns
- Cost and Operational Efficacy: The estimated cost of $5-6 billion and operational challenges posed by anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) capabilities developed by China and Pakistan are significant concerns.
- A2/AD Strategy: Advances in cruise missile technology enable adversaries to conduct effective A2/AD operations, posing a threat to carrier-based strategies.
- Resource Allocation: The debate within the Indian Navy is split between pursuing a ‘sea denial’ strategy with submarines or a ‘sea control’ approach with carrier battle groups. There is also concern over diverting funds from other critical needs like submarines, surface combatants, and naval aviation assets.
Significance
- Strategic Flexibility: A third carrier provides strategic flexibility and ensures continuous operational readiness on both seaboards.
- Deterrence: Enhances deterrence capabilities against adversaries by maintaining a credible maritime force projection.
- Technological and Industrial Growth: Promotes technological advancements and sustains the domestic shipbuilding industry, contributing to India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
2. PM Kisan Nidhi installment released to 9.3-cr. farmers
Context: The Union government released the 17th instalment of the PM Kisan Nidhi scheme, benefitting 9.3 crore farmers. This was the first decision taken by the newly sworn-in Modi government, reflecting its commitment to farmers’ welfare.
Overview of PM Kisan Nidhi Scheme
- Objective: The PM Kisan Nidhi scheme aims to provide financial support to farmers by offering direct cash transfers to improve their financial stability and support agricultural activities.
- Beneficiaries: Small and marginal farmers holding cultivable land are the primary beneficiaries.
- Payment Details: Each farmer receives ₹6,000 annually, disbursed in three equal installments.
Recent Development
- 17th Installment Release: The 17th installment involves the disbursement of approximately ₹20,000 crore to 9.3 crore farmers.
- First Decision of New Government: Prime Minister signed the file authorizing this installment as his first official act after assuming office for the third term.
Significance
Financial Support to Farmers
- Immediate Relief: The release of ₹20,000 crore provides immediate financial relief to 9.3 crore farmers, aiding in their agricultural activities and overall well-being.
- Boost to Agriculture Sector: Consistent financial support under the PM Kisan Nidhi scheme contributes to the stability and growth of the agricultural sector.
3. India welcomes Egypt, Iran, UAE, Saudi Arabia and Ethiopia joining BRICS
Context: India welcomed Egypt, Iran, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia as new members of the BRICS group during a significant Foreign Ministers’ Meeting hosted by Russia. This expansion marks a pivotal moment in the history of BRICS, enhancing its global influence and representation.
Background of BRICS Expansion
- BRICS Overview: Originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, BRICS aims to promote economic cooperation, political dialogue, and multilateralism.
- Expansion: In 2023, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and UAE joined BRICS, expanding its reach and diversifying its membership.
Recent Meeting Details
- Location: The BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting was held in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia.
- Indian Delegation: Senior diplomat Dammu Ravi, Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), led the Indian delegation.
- Key Discussions: The meeting focused on multilateralism, international law, and the need for comprehensive UN reform, including the Security Council.
Issues
Multilateralism and International Law
- Commitment to Multilateralism: The ministers reiterated their commitment to multilateralism, emphasizing cooperation and collective decision-making.
- UN Reform: They voiced strong support for reforming the United Nations to make it more democratic, representative, effective, and efficient.
Geopolitical Dynamics
- Regional Representation: The inclusion of new members from diverse regions enhances BRICS’ global representation and influence.
- Strategic Interests: The expansion reflects strategic interests in balancing global power dynamics and fostering economic cooperation among developing nations.
Significance
Enhanced Global Influence
- Diversified Membership: The inclusion of Egypt, Iran, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia brings diverse perspectives and strengthens BRICS’ global standing.
- Increased Cooperation: The expanded group can facilitate broader economic cooperation, trade partnerships, and political dialogue among member nations.
Economic and Political Impacts
- Economic Growth: Enhanced cooperation can lead to increased trade and investment opportunities, driving economic growth in member countries.
- Political Dialogue: A more diverse BRICS can foster greater political dialogue and collaboration on global issues such as climate change, security, and development.
G. Tidbits
Nothing here for today!!!
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1. Consider the following statements about heat and its role in engines and global warming:
- Internal combustion engines convert chemical energy stored in fuel into usable mechanical work by utilizing the expansion of hot gases.
- The greenhouse effect is caused by heat from the sun being trapped by certain gases in the atmosphere, leading to global warming.
- Heat, by itself, can directly cause global warming without any interaction with atmospheric gases.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct. Internal combustion engines operate on the principle of burning fuel (a chemical reaction) to generate heat. This heat causes the expansion of gases within the engine, which pushes pistons and translates into mechanical work.
- Statement 2 is correct. The greenhouse effect is a natural phenomenon where certain gases in the atmosphere, like carbon dioxide, trap heat radiating from the Earth’s surface, leading to a gradual warming trend. Human activities are increasing the concentration of these greenhouse gases, intensifying this effect and causing global warming.
- Statement 3 is incorrect. Heat, by itself, cannot directly cause global warming in the context of Earth’s atmosphere. It’s the trapping of heat by greenhouse gases that disrupts the natural energy balance and leads to global warming.
Q2. Consider the following statements:
- Statement 1: The Indian Ocean plays a crucial role in regulating global climate patterns like monsoons.
- Statement 2: The vast biodiversity of the Indian Ocean is a key indicator of the overall health of the planet’s marine ecosystems.
Which of the following is correct in the context of the above statements?
- Only Statement 1 is individually correct and relevant.
- Only Statement 2 is individually correct and relevant.
- Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are individually correct but not directly linked.
- Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are individually correct and have a cause-and-effect relationship.
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation:
- Statement 1: The Indian Ocean is a major driver of monsoons, particularly for the surrounding landmasses in Asia and Africa. Its warm surface temperatures and unique circulation patterns influence wind directions and precipitation patterns, impacting agricultural productivity and regional weather patterns.
- Statement 2: The Indian Ocean is a hotspot for marine biodiversity, harbouring diverse coral reefs, mangroves, and a wide range of marine life. This rich biodiversity is not only ecologically valuable in itself but also serves as an indicator of the overall health of the planet’s oceans. A decline in ocean health in the Indian Ocean would likely have cascading effects on marine ecosystems globally.
Q3. Consider the following statements:
- Statement 1: India’s growing strategic interests in the Indian Ocean necessitate a robust naval presence, and a third aircraft carrier would significantly enhance power projection capabilities.
- Statement 2: Critics argue that the high cost of building and maintaining a third carrier outweighs the strategic benefits, and investments in other defense sectors might be more prudent.
Which of the following is correct in the context of the above statements?
- Only Statement 1 is individually correct and relevant.
- Only Statement 2 is individually correct and relevant.
- Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are individually correct but not directly linked.
- Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are individually correct and have a trade-off relationship.
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Proponents of a third aircraft carrier argue that India’s growing role as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean requires a stronger navy with the ability to project power across vast distances. An additional carrier battle group would enhance India’s ability to deter potential adversaries and respond to regional contingencies.
- Statement 2: Critics point out the enormous cost associated with building and maintaining an aircraft carrier. These resources could be directed towards other defense priorities like modernization of existing forces, development of indigenous technologies, or bolstering other branches of the military.
- The Trade-Off:
- These statements present a classic trade-off between strategic ambitions and resource allocation. The decision to build a third carrier involves weighing the potential benefits for national security against the significant financial burden.
Q4. The recent release of Rs 20,000 crore by the new Government of India as its first official act is associated with which of the following schemes?
- Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)
- Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
- Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)
- Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation:
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) is a central government scheme launched in 2019. It provides annual financial assistance of ₹6,000 to eligible farmers, payable in three equal instalments of ₹2,000 every four months.
The news pertains to the disbursal of one such instalment, amounting to ₹20,000 crore, which benefits around 9.3 crore farmers.
Q5. The recent expansion of the BRICS grouping included which of the following countries?
- Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal
- Egypt, Iran, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia
- Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines
- Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) recently welcomed new members in 2023. The new members include Egypt, Iran, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to freshwater resources? (150 words) (10 marks) [GS-1, Geography] [UPSC 2023]
- What is oil pollution? What are its impacts on the marine ecosystem? In what way is oil pollution particularly harmful for a country like India? (10 marks) [GS-3, Environment] [UPSC 2023]
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