APPSC GROUP 1
The Modified Pension Scheme: Balancing Guarantees and Fiscal Prudence
Q: What is the Unified Pension Scheme
(UPS)?
A: The UPS is a new pension scheme
approved by the Indian Cabinet that aims to provide a middle ground between the
old guaranteed pension system and the market-linked New Pension Scheme (NPS).
It promises a pension of 50% of the average basic pay of the last 12 months
before retirement, with a minimum pension of ₹10,000 for those who
worked at least 10 years.
Q: How
does the UPS differ from the NPS?
A:
Unlike the NPS, which was entirely market-linked, the UPS offers a guaranteed
pension. It also increases
the government's contribution from 14% under NPS to 18.5%. However, it still
requires employee contributions, unlike the old pension scheme.
Q: Why was there a need for pension
reform?
A: Pension schemes worldwide are
facing crises due to factors including demographic changes. In India, pension
costs were consuming a significant portion (6%-21%) of states' revenue
receipts, raising concerns about fiscal sustainability and intergenerational
equity.
Q: What were the issues with the New
Pension Scheme (NPS)?
A: The NPS, introduced during a
stock market boom, resulted in much lower pensions for retirees compared to the
old scheme. This discrepancy led to dissatisfaction among government employees
and political pressure for reform.
Q: How does the UPS address the
concerns of government employees?
A: The UPS aims to provide more
financial security and dignity to retirees by guaranteeing a minimum pension
and linking it to the employee's last salary. It's designed to be more generous
than the NPS while still maintaining some elements of fiscal prudence.
Q: What are the implications of this
pension reform for broader government policies?
A: The pension reform reflects the
government's attempt to balance fiscal constraints with employee welfare. It
may impact other policies related to government employment, such as contractual
hiring and schemes like Agnipath. The reform also highlights the need for
political consensus in implementing sustainable changes.
Sonoluminescence
Sonoluminescence is the phenomenon where a tiny bubble in a liquid, when hit by strong sound waves, emits a brief flash of light.
How does it happen?
1. Sound waves hit the bubble: The
sound waves cause the bubble to expand and contract rapidly.
2. Bubble collapses: During the
collapse, the bubble's contents are squeezed incredibly tightly.
3. Intense heat and light: This
compression generates extreme heat inside the bubble, sometimes reaching
thousands of degrees. This heat causes the gases inside to ionize (lose
electrons) and release energy as a flash of light.
Interesting Facts:
• Discovery: It was first observed
in 1934 during sonar research.
• Not just in labs: Pistol shrimp
create a similar effect with their specialized claws, producing sound, heat, and
even light!
• Mystery remains: While we
understand the basic process, the exact way light is produced during
sonoluminescence is still being studied.
Sonoluminescence is a fascinating example of
how sound energy can be converted into light. It highlights the surprising and
sometimes unexplained phenomena that exist in the natural world.
Spacewalk
1. What is a spacewalk?
A spacewalk, or extravehicular
activity (EVA), is when an astronaut leaves their spacecraft to work in space.
2. How long does a typical spacewalk
last?
Usually 5-8 hours.
3. What do astronauts wear during
spacewalks?
Extravehicular Mobility Units (EMUs)
or spacesuits, which provide oxygen, temperature control, and protection from
radiation.
4. Why do astronauts perform
spacewalks?
To conduct repairs, installations,
experiments, and maintenance on spacecraft or satellites.
5. How do astronauts move during
spacewalks?
They use handrails, tethers, and
sometimes jetpacks called Simplified Aid for EVA Rescue (SAFER).
6. What dangers do astronauts face
during spacewalks?
Radiation exposure, micrometeorites,
equipment failure, and the risk of becoming untethered.
7. How do astronauts communicate
during spacewalks?
Through radio systems in their
helmets.
8. How many spacewalks have been
performed?
As of 2024, over 400 spacewalks have
been conducted.
India's Pragyan Rover: Unveiling the Moon's Ancient Secrets
Q: What is Pragyan and what was its
mission?
A: Pragyan is a small, six-wheeled
rover that was part of India's Chandrayaan-3 mission. It successfully landed on
the Moon's south pole on August 23, 2023. Its mission was to explore the lunar
surface, analyze the soil, and send valuable data back to Earth.
Q: What significant finding did
Pragyan recently make?
A: Pragyan discovered a type of rock
called ferroan anorthosite in the lunar soil. This finding supports the theory
that the moon was once covered by a vast ocean of magma billions of years ago.
Q: How did Pragyan make this
discovery?
A: Pragyan used its Alpha Particle
X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) instrument to study the lunar soil. The APXS fires
X-rays and alpha particles at the soil, and by analyzing the way these
particles are reflected, scientists can determine the chemical and mineral
composition of the soil.
Q: Why is this discovery important?
A: This discovery provides further
evidence for the theory that the moon was formed from a collision between the
early Earth and another planetary body. It also highlights the importance of
on-site lunar exploration, as orbiters cannot provide the same level of detail
about the moon's surface composition.
Q: What other discoveries has
Pragyan made?
A: Besides ferroan anorthosite,
Pragyan also found evidence of other minerals and elements in the lunar soil,
including sulphur and magnesium. These findings are helping scientists to
understand the moon's geological history and its potential resources.
Q: What is the future of lunar
exploration?
A: The success of Chandrayaan-3 and
Pragyan's discoveries have paved the way for further lunar exploration.
Scientists are eager to study the moon's south pole in more detail, as it is
believed to harbor water ice that could be used for future human settlements.
India's next lunar mission, Chandrayaan-4, is already in the works and is
expected to launch in the coming years.
Q: How will Pragyan's data continue
to benefit science even though the rover is no longer active?
A: The data collected by Pragyan
during its mission is being analyzed by scientists around the world. This data
is expected to lead to new insights into the moon's formation, evolution, and
potential resources. Even though the rover is no longer active, its legacy will
continue to contribute to our understanding of the moon for years to come.
Disaster Management Bill 2024
Key
Provisions:
1. Disaster Database: The bill proposes the creation of a comprehensive disaster database at both national and state levels. This database would include details about disaster assessments, fund allocation, expenditures, preparedness and mitigation plans, risk registers, and other relevant information.
2. Urban Disaster Management Authority (UDMA): The bill seeks to establish Urban Disaster Management Authorities for state capitals and major cities with municipal corporations, except for Delhi and Chandigarh.
3. Plan Preparation: The bill empowers the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) to prepare disaster management plans at their respective levels, a responsibility previously held by the National Executive Committee and State Executive Committees.
4. Expert Appointments: The NDMA is granted the authority to appoint experts and consultants as needed to fulfill its functions.
Rationale:
The government has justified the proposed amendments by highlighting the need to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of disaster management efforts in India.
• Disaster Database: The creation of a comprehensive database aims to streamline data collection and analysis,facilitating better decision-making and resource allocation during disasters.
• Urban Disaster Management Authority: The establishment of UDMAs recognizes the unique challenges faced by urban areas in disaster management and seeks to create specialized mechanisms to address them.
• Plan Preparation: Shifting the responsibility of plan preparation to NDMA and SDMAs is intended to enhance coordination and streamline decision-making processes.
• Expert Appointments: Allowing NDMA to appoint experts aims to bring in specialized knowledge and experience to improve disaster management strategies.
Criticisms: The bill has faced opposition, primarily from members of the opposition parties, who have raised several concerns:
• Centralization of Power: Critics argue that the bill centralizes power in the hands of the central government,potentially undermining the autonomy of state governments in disaster management.
• Creation of Multiple Authorities: The establishment of additional authorities like UDMAs is seen by some as unnecessary bureaucracy that could lead to confusion and delays in decision-making.
• Encroachment on State Powers: Opposition members argue that the bill encroaches upon the functions and responsibilities of state governments, which have traditionally played a significant role in disaster management.
Overall:
The Disaster Management Bill 2024 aims to
strengthen India's disaster management framework by introducing new provisions
for data collection, specialized urban authorities, and streamlined plan
preparation. However, it has also sparked debate and criticism regarding the
centralization of power and potential encroachment on state autonomy. The
effectiveness of these proposed changes and their impact on India's disaster
management capabilities remain to be seen as the bill progresses through the
legislative process.
ECOLOGICALLY SENSITIVE AREAS (ESAs) IN THE WESTERN GHATS
What
are Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs)?
Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) are regions designated for environmental protection due to their significant ecological importance and vulnerability. Activities that could harm the environment, such as mining, quarrying, and large infrastructure projects, are restricted in these areas to preserve their biodiversity and natural resources.
2.
Why are certain areas in the Western Ghats classified as ESAs?
The Western Ghats are a biodiversity hotspot with unique flora and fauna. They also play a crucial role in the region’s climate regulation and water supply. Classifying parts of the Western Ghats as ESAs helps protect these ecologically rich and environmentally critical areas from potentially harmful human activities.
3.
How are ESAs identified in the Western Ghats?
ESAs are identified based on scientific criteria such as biodiversity richness, presence of endangered species, and vulnerability to environmental degradation. Committees, such as the Gadgil and Kasturirangan committees, have assessed these factors and recommended specific areas for protection.
4.
What restrictions are imposed in ESAs?
In ESAs, activities that may have adverse environmental impacts, such as large-scale industrial projects, mining, and certain types of agriculture, are either prohibited or strictly regulated. The goal is to minimize ecological disturbances and preserve the natural landscape.
5.
How have the States responded to the designation of ESAs in the Western Ghats?
Several States, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, have expressed concerns over the designation of certain areas as ESAs. They argue that the restrictions could negatively affect local economies, livelihoods, and development plans, such as agricultural plantations and hydroelectric projects.
6.
What is the current status of the ESA notification in the Western Ghats?
The Union government has reissued the draft notification for the sixth time, with the latest version issued on July 31, 2024. The notification is open for public comments for 60 days. The process has been delayed due to the lack of consensus among the States and public opposition.
7.
What is the role of public participation in the ESA notification process?
Public participation is a crucial part of the ESA notification process. Citizens and stakeholders are invited to submit their comments and concerns during the designated period. These inputs are considered before finalizing the notification.
8.
What are the potential benefits of designating ESAs in the Western Ghats?
Designating ESAs helps protect endangered species, preserve unique ecosystems, and maintain ecological balance. It also mitigates the risk of natural disasters, such as landslides, by preserving natural vegetation and landscape stability.
9.
What are the challenges in implementing ESA notifications?
The main challenges include balancing conservation efforts with developmental needs, addressing local communities’ concerns, and achieving consensus among various stakeholders. The complexity of land ownership and use rights also adds to the difficulty of implementing ESA protections.
10.
What is the role of the new committee in the ESA designation process?
A new committee has been formed to review the
concerns raised by the States and refine the draft notification. This committee
is tasked with ensuring that the ESA designations appropriately balance
conservation priorities with the socio-economic needs of the region.
The Godavari Geothermal Energy Project
What
is the Godavari Geothermal Energy Project?
The Godavari Geothermal Energy Project is a pioneering initiative aimed at harnessing geothermal energy in the Manuguru area of the Pranahita Godavari basin in Telangana, India. This project involves a collaboration between Singareni Collieries Company Ltd. (SCCL), the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd. (ONGC), and the Telangana Renewable Energy Development Corporation Ltd. (TGREDCO).
Why
focus on geothermal energy in Manuguru?
Manuguru, known for its coal reserves, is also home to significant geothermal resources, particularly hot water springs. These natural resources present an opportunity to generate renewable energy. The experimental geothermal power plant set up by SCCL has indicated the potential to generate significant energy, prompting further exploration and development.
What
are the goals of this project?
The primary goal of the Godavari Geothermal Energy Project is to transform Manuguru into a major hub for geothermal energy in India. This involves:
- Exploring and assessing the geothermal potential in the area.
- Developing infrastructure to harness and convert geothermal energy into electricity.
- Promoting sustainable and renewable energy generation in line with India's energy diversification and climate change mitigation strategies.
How
much energy potential does the Manuguru area have?
Recent surveys by scientific agencies at the Pagideru hot spring site have revealed that the area has the potential to generate approximately 122 MW of geothermal energy. This substantial capacity could play a crucial role in meeting local and national energy demands sustainably.
What
are the benefits of developing geothermal energy in this region?
Geothermal energy offers several benefits, particularly for regions like Manuguru: -
**Renewable Energy Source: Unlike fossil fuels, geothermal energy is sustainable and can help reduce reliance on coal and other non-renewable resources.
**Environmental Impact: Geothermal energy production is associated with lower emissions of greenhouse gases compared to traditional fossil fuel-based power plants.
**Economic Growth: The development of geothermal energy can stimulate local economies through job creation in construction, maintenance, and operation of geothermal plants.
**Energy Security: Enhancing geothermal energy infrastructure contributes to national energy security and stability by diversifying the energy supply
What
are the challenges associated with geothermal energy development?
While geothermal energy is promising, it also faces several challenges:
**High Initial Costs: The exploration and development of geothermal resources require significant upfront investment.
**Technological Challenges: Effective extraction and utilization of geothermal energy require advanced technology, which can be costly and complex to implement.
**Geological Risks: The process involves drilling into the earth, which can pose risks such as earthquakes and land subsidence if not managed properly.
What
is the future of geothermal energy in India?
The future of geothermal energy in India
looks promising, especially with projects like the Godavari Geothermal Energy
Project paving the way. As the country moves towards renewable energy to meet
its climate targets and reduce its carbon footprint, geothermal energy could
become a more significant part of India's energy landscape. Further research,
investment, and government support will be crucial in overcoming challenges and
realizing the full potential of geothermal resources in India.
CORAL BLEACHING IN LAKSHADWEEP
1.What is coral bleaching?
Coral bleaching occurs when corals
expel the symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae, from their tissues due to stress,
often caused by elevated sea temperatures. This loss turns the corals white and
can lead to their death if the stress continues.
2.What has been observed in the
Lakshadweep coral reefs?
A significant bleaching event has
been observed, with around 70% of the coral reef area affected. This includes
fast-growing and branching corals like Acropora and Pocillopora, which have
shown extensive bleaching.
3.What causes coral bleaching in
Lakshadweep?
The primary cause is marine
heatwaves (MHWs), where sea surface temperatures rise significantly above
normal. This increase in temperature disrupts the delicate balance of the
marine ecosystem, leading to bleaching.
4.What is the impact of coral
bleaching on marine life?
Coral reefs support a diverse range
of marine species, including fish, invertebrates, and algae. Bleaching can lead
to the collapse of these ecosystems, affecting biodiversity and the livelihoods
of local communities.
5.How does bleaching affect the
local economy?
Coral reefs are a major draw for
tourism, which is a significant source of income for the local population. The
loss of coral reefs can diminish the appeal of these areas for tourists, impacting
the economy.
6.What other environmental factors
contribute to coral bleaching?
Besides rising sea temperatures,
factors like pollution, including plastic waste and microplastics, can
exacerbate the stress on coral reefs. However, oil pollution was not found to
be a significant issue in the Lakshadweep region.
7.What is being done to monitor and
manage coral bleaching?
There are coral bleaching alert systems in place, such as those provided by the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS). These systems help monitor bleaching events and gather data on the affected coral species.
8.How do marine heatwaves (MHWs)
impact coral reefs?
MHWs, characterized by prolonged
periods of elevated sea temperatures, are particularly harmful to coral reefs.
They increase the likelihood of bleaching events and can cause widespread
damage to the marine ecosystem.
9.Is coral bleaching a global issue?
Yes, coral bleaching is a global
phenomenon, exacerbated by climate change. Similar events have been observed in
other parts of the world, such as the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, often
linked to climatic processes like El Nino.
10.Can coral reefs recover from
bleaching?
Coral reefs can recover if the
stressors are removed and favorable conditions return. However, recovery can
take several years, and repeated bleaching events can hinder the long-term
resilience of coral ecosystems.
PRE-MONSOON SEASON IN INDIA
- Large parts of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat and North East India have received no rain at all in March 2022.
- The hill regions of India including Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh have recorded ‘Deficient’ or ‘Large Deficient’ rains.
- Districts such as Poonch, Leh, Tehri Garhwal, West Sikkim, South Sikkim, East Kameng and East Siang recorded ‘deficient’ rainfall in the hills.
- Baramulla, Nainital, North Sikkim, East Sikkim), Tawang, Papum Pare and Upper Siang recorded ‘normal’ rainfall in the hills.
- The low amount of rainfall this pre-monsoon is similar to 2019. The low pre-monsoon (March to May) rainfall that year was the lowest in the last five years and second lowest in last 65 years.
Pre Monsoon Season in India
- As the sun shifts northward towards the Tropic of Cancer after the Vernal Equinox, the whole India experiences an increase in temperature and marks the commencement of Pre-monsoon season.
- Pre-monsoon is from March to May.
- The term Mango showers is used to describe the occurrence of pre-monsoon rainfall. Sometimes, these rains are referred to generically as ‘April rains’ or ‘Summer showers’.
- They are notable across much of South and Southeast Asia, including India, and Cambodia.
- In southern Asia, these rains greatly influence human activities because of the control the rains have on crops that are culturally significant like mangoes and coffee.
- These rains normally occur from March to April, although their arrival is often difficult to predict. Their intensity can range from light showers to heavy and persistent thunderstorms.
- In India, the mango showers occur as the result of thunderstorm development over the Bay of Bengal.
- They are also known as 'Kaal Baisakhi' in Bengal, as Bordoisila in Assam and as Cherry Blossom showers or Coffee Showers in Karnataka.
- Towards the close of the summer season, pre-monsoon showers are common, especially in Kerala, Karnataka and parts of Tamil Nadu in India. They help in the early ripening of mangoes and are hence often referred to as "Mango showers."
Conditions fuelling the pre monsoon showers
- From March the temperatures in the north India rise as the vertical rays of the Sun reach the Tropic of Cancer.
- April is considered the hottest month for the western and southern regions of the country. For most of North India, May is the hottest month. Temperatures of northwest India sometimes reaches 50 °C and higher.
- Another striking feature of summer is the Loo (hot wind).
- Strong, hot, and dry wind known as the loo blows in from the west during the daytime, with very high temperatures, in some cases up to around 45 °C.
- Isolated pockets of north and west Rajasthan sometimes reaches 50 °C also.
- The atmospheric pressure is low all over the country due to high temperatures. Since the sun goes gradually towards the north (summer solstice), the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) begins to move towards the north.
- The general direction of winds is from the north-west and west in north-western India.
Andhis and little rainfall
- In the months of May and June, the high temperature in north-western India builds a steep pressure gradient leading to strong winds.
- These strong dust storms result from the convective phenomenon and their intensity increases in the afternoon.
- These are locally known as Andhis, which are short-lived thunderstorms, which move like a solid wall of sand and dust.
- These weather activities bring little rainfall and give much-needed relief from the heat.
- Dust storms in the evening are very common during May in Punjab, Haryana, Eastern Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
Kal Baisakhi or "Nor'westers"
- Immense pre-monsoon squall-line thunderstorms, known locally as Kal Baisakhi or "Nor'westers", commonly associated with hailstorm and very strong winds, occurs in east India.
- During this time Odisha, West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bangladesh and North-Eastern states of India are affected by violent thunderstorms. They cause considerable damage to life and property.
- Effects- Kalbaishakhi brings destruction by uprooting trees due to gale-winds and waterlogging roads due to heavy rainfall. It often damages crop by hailstorms. However it is extremely helpful for kharif crops like jute, paddy, etc.
Tea Showers, Mango Showers and Cherry Blossoms
- In the south, thunderstorms occur in Kerala and adjoining parts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, particularly in the evenings and nights. These pre-monsoonal showers are called by various names.
- Tea showers in Assam (they are good for tea, jute, and rice). Mango showers in Kerala and coastal areas of Karnataka as they help in the early ripening of mangoes. Cherry Blossoms/Coffee showers in Kerala and nearby areas (good for coffee plantations).