Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – CARE (09-07-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Science and Technology: Diamonds pose a quantum block to India’s research ambition |
| Polity and Governance: Centre set to tweak criteria for according classical language status |
| International Relations: India to sign, ratify High Seas Treaty |
| Disaster Management: Almost half of India’s soil cover prone to floods, a third to droughts: Study |
| Polity and Governance: Project PARI in news |
Diamonds pose a quantum block to India’s research ambition
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3 -Science and Technology
Context: Diamond Industry in India and National Quantum Mission (NQM).
Why in News
- Scarcity of high-quality diamond production in India is posing a significant challenge to the country’s ambitions in quantum research
Introduction to Quantum Technology
- Quantum technology represents a revolutionary approach to computing, sensing, and encryption systems by leveraging quantum-mechanical properties of matter at atomic levels.
- It promises to surpass current technological capabilities significantly.
Importance of Diamonds in Quantum Technology
- Diamonds, known for their gemological properties, also possess unique atomic structures that make them ideal for quantum research.
- Specifically, researchers focus on defects within diamonds, such as the nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers.
Understanding Nitrogen-vacancy (NV) Centers
- Diamonds can host nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers, which are used as qubits in quantum computers.
- These NV centers can operate at room temperature, making diamonds highly valuable for quantum computing applications.
- NV centers are defects in diamonds where two carbon atoms are replaced by a nitrogen atom and a ‘hole’.
- These defects allow for precise manipulation of electrons, which can function as qubits in quantum computers.
- Sensitive to Magnetic Fields: NV centers exhibit high sensitivity to variations in magnetic fields, making them valuable for applications in sensing magnetic fields with extreme precision.
- Potential as Qubits: Qubits, akin to classical computer bits, are the fundamental units of quantum computing.
- NV centers can serve as stable qubits due to their long coherence times.
Role of Diamonds in Quantum Research
- Diamonds are integral to advancing quantum technologies due to their unique properties:
- Material Properties: The hardness, electrical conductivity, and light manipulation properties of diamonds are essential for creating stable environments to host quantum states.
- Experimental Advantages: Researchers use diamonds to conduct intricate experiments aimed at harnessing quantum phenomena for practical applications in computing, sensing, and encryption.
Challenges in Diamond Imports for Quantum Research
Despite the potential benefits, the importation of diamonds for quantum research faces regulatory challenges:
- Customs Regulations: Import restrictions imposed by customs departments can hinder access to diamonds crucial for quantum research, delaying advancements in this burgeoning field.
- Need for Expertise: Quantum technology is still in its nascent stages, requiring highly skilled scientists to conduct precise experiments and exploit diamond defects effectively.
Lab-Grown Diamonds with ‘Defects’
- Lab-grown diamonds, customized with specific defects, are crucial for quantum research due to their unique properties.
- Unlike natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds can be manipulated using lasers at room temperatures, a capability rare in other materials. This feature makes them ideal for quantum applications.
Benefits and Challenges of Lab-Grown Diamonds
- Lab-grown diamonds are indistinguishable from natural diamonds but are considered more environmentally and ethically benign.
- However, India, despite its expertise in diamond cutting and polishing, is still in the early stages of manufacturing diamonds with tailored defects suitable for quantum research.
Challenges in Diamond Importation
- The importation of diamonds with the necessary defects poses significant challenges for Indian quantum researchers.
- Regulatory Hurdles: Indian customs laws currently classify institutions focused on quantum research differently from gemologists. This distinction restricts the importation of diamonds required for research purposes, leading to delays and increased costs.
- Impact on Research: Quantum researchers in India face obstacles in obtaining the specific diamonds needed for their experiments. These hurdles have resulted in stalled research projects, particularly in quantum sensing, where precise diamonds with defects are essential.
Government Initiatives and Responses
- The Indian government has shown awareness of these issues but has yet to implement effective solutions.
- Policy and Advocacy: Efforts to address these challenges include advocacy from scientific institutions and engagements between the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Customs Department, and Ministry of Science and Technology. However, tangible progress remains limited.
What is National Quantum Mission?
- It’ll be implemented by the Department of Science & Technology (DST) under the Ministry of Science & Technology.
- The mission planned for 2023-2031 aims to seed, nurture, and scale up scientific and industrial R&D and create a vibrant & innovative ecosystem in Quantum Technology (QT).
- With the launch of this mission, India will be the seventh country to have a dedicated quantum mission after the US, Austria, Finland, France, Canada and China.
Salient features of NQM:
- It will target developing intermediate scale quantum computers with 50-100 physical qubits in 5 years and 50-1000 physical qubits in 8 years.
- Just like bits (1 and 0) are the basic units by which computers process information, ‘qubits’ or ‘quantum bits’ are the units of process by quantum computers.
- The mission will help develop magnetometers with high sensitivity for precision timing (atomic clocks), communications, and navigation.
- It will also support design and synthesis of quantum materials such as superconductors, novel semiconductor structures and topological materials for fabrication of quantum devices.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q1. Consider the following statements with regards to diamonds in India:
Which of the statements given above is/are not correct?
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Q. Which one of the following foreign travellers elaborately discussed about diamonds and diamond mines of India? (2018)
(a) Francois Bernier (b) Jean-Baptiste Tavernier (c) Jean de Thevenot (d) Abbe Barthelemy Carre Ans: (b) |
| Answer 1- B
Explanation:
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Centre set to tweak criteria for according classical language status
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS 2- Polity and Governance
Context: Classical language status
Why in News
- Following recommendations from the Linguistics Expert Committee of the Union Culture Ministry, the Central government has been deliberating on the criteria for granting classical status to languages, which has led to proposed changes in the existing norms.
Proposed Changes by the Linguistics Expert Committee
- The Linguistics Expert Committee, composed of representatives from the Union Ministries of Home and Culture along with several linguistic experts, has put forward suggestions for tweaking the criteria.
- These recommendations aim to refine the process of according classical language status to various languages.
Government’s Initiative and Timeline
- The government has initiated discussions and revisions to the current criteria after prompting from higher authorities.
- This matter was first addressed in a meeting held on June 21, 2023, indicating active consideration and progress in revising the guidelines.
Impact on Languages Under Consideration
- As a result of these ongoing revisions, languages such as Marathi, which are being considered for classical status, might experience delays.
- The approval and notification of the new criteria through a gazette notification, pending approval by the Union Cabinet, are crucial steps in this process.
Committee Composition and Leadership
- The Linguistics Expert Committee is chaired by the president of the Sahitya Akademi and includes several linguistic experts alongside representatives from key ministries.
- This composition ensures a comprehensive evaluation of linguistic and cultural criteria in determining classical language status.
Background of Marathi’s Demand
- Marathi, a prominent language spoken in Maharashtra, has been seeking classical language status for over a decade.
- The demand is rooted in its rich literary heritage and cultural significance within the state.
Historical Efforts and Committee Formation
- In 2014, then Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan initiated efforts by forming a committee of Marathi experts chaired by Prof. Ranganath Pathare.
- The committee concluded that Marathi meets all the criteria necessary for recognition as a classical language and submitted its report to the Centre.
Political and Parliamentary Involvement
- The demand for classical status for Marathi has been a recurring topic in Maharashtra’s political discourse.
- MPs from Maharashtra have consistently raised the issue in Parliament, receiving assurances from the Centre on multiple occasions over the past decade.
Current Criteria for Classical Language Status
The current criteria set by the government include:
- High antiquity of early texts/recorded history (1,500-2,000 years).
- A body of ancient literature considered valuable by generations.
- Original literary tradition not borrowed from another community.
- Distinctiveness from its modern form and potential discontinuity with later forms or offshoots.
Benefits and Implications of Classical Status
Once recognized as a classical language, benefits include:
- Establishment of centers of excellence and Professional Chairs in universities.
- Promotion through international awards for scholars and academic support by the Education Ministry.
Recent Developments and Political Momentum
- With Assembly polls approaching in Maharashtra, the demand for Marathi’s classical status has gained significant political momentum.
- Recently, efforts by the Shiv Sena-BJP government in Maharashtra, including the formation of a persuasion committee led by former diplomat Dnyaneshwar Muley, highlight continued state-level support and coordination with central authorities.
About Classical Languages
- Currently there are six languages that enjoy the ‘Classical’ status in India:
- Tamil (declared in 2004), Sanskrit (2005), Kannada (2008), Telugu (2008), Malayalam (2013), and Odia (2014).
- All the Classical Languages are listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
- The Ministry of Culture provides the guidelines regarding Classical languages.
- Once a language is notified as a Classical language, the Human Resource and Development Ministry provides certain benefits to promote it:
- Two major annual international awards for scholars of eminence in classical Indian languages
- A Centre of Excellence for studies in Classical Languages is set up
- The University Grants Commission is requested to create, to start with at least in the Central Universities, a certain number of Professional Chairs for the Classical Languages so declared.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q2. Consider the following Statements:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
|
Q. Consider the following statements languages: (2014)
1. Gujarati 2. Kannada 3. Telugu Which of the above has/have been declared as ‘Classical Language / Languages’ by the Government? A. 1 and 2 only B. 3 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Ans: C |
| Answer 2 – C
Explanation:
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India to sign, ratify High Seas Treaty: Minister
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Relevance: GS 2- International Relations
Context: The High Seas Treaty
Why in News
- India has decided to sign and ratify the High Seas Treaty, a global agreement for conservation and protection of biodiversity in the oceans, that is often compared to the 2015 Paris Agreement in its reach and impact.
High Seas Treaty
- The High Seas Treaty, officially known as the agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdictions (BBNJ), aims to address conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction.
- These areas, known as the High Seas, cover approximately 64% of the ocean surface and are considered international commons.
Framework and International Context
- The treaty operates within the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which defines the rights and responsibilities of nations concerning the use of oceans.
- It serves as an implementing instrument under UNCLOS, alongside other agreements that regulate specific activities such as mineral extraction and conservation of fish stocks.
Objectives of the High Seas Treaty
- Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): The treaty aims to establish and manage marine protected areas in biodiversity-rich zones of the High Seas that are under stress. These areas would restrict or regulate certain human activities to conserve marine biodiversity, similar to national parks on land.
- Regulation of Activities: It seeks to regulate or prohibit activities in designated MPAs, such as deep-sea mining, to mitigate environmental impacts and protect vulnerable ecosystems.
- Benefit Sharing: The treaty ensures that benefits derived from ocean resources, including pharmaceutical developments from marine life, are considered global common heritage. It advocates for equitable sharing of these benefits without intellectual property rights restrictions.
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): Commercial activities in the High Seas, particularly those likely to cause significant pollution or environmental degradation, will require rigorous environmental impact assessments. This is intended to minimize adverse impacts on marine ecosystems and biodiversity.
Implementation and International Cooperation
- The implementation of the High Seas Treaty involves international cooperation among signatory nations.
- It emphasizes governance, transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law in managing activities in the High Seas.
India’s Commitment and Ratification Process
- India has demonstrated its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development by endorsing the High Seas Treaty.
- The Cabinet’s endorsement on July 2 signifies India’s intention to sign and subsequently ratify the treaty through its legislative processes, aligning with global efforts for biodiversity protection.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q3. Consider the following statements with regards to High Seas Treaty:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
|
Q. With reference to the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea, consider the following statements: (2022)
Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (d) |
| Answer 3 D
Explanation
|
Almost half of India’s soil cover prone to floods, a third to droughts: Study
Source: Down-to-earth
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3- Disaster Management
Context: Soil moisture anomalies (SMA) impact agriculture, water resources, and the need for tailored management strategies.
Why in News
- A recent study published in a Springer journal examines soil moisture anomalies (SMA) across India in 2023 compared to historical averages from 2000 to 2005.
Soil Moisture Anomalies(SMA)
- Soil Moisture Anomaly (SMA) refers to the deviation of current soil moisture content from the long-term average for a specific location and time of year.
- It is a measure used in hydrology and agriculture to assess whether soil moisture levels are higher or lower than normal.
- SMA helps in understanding whether soil moisture conditions are abnormal, which can affect crop growth, water availability for plants, and risk assessment for drought or flood conditions.
Positive and Negative Soil Moisture Anomalies
- In 2023, approximately 32.8% of India’s land area experienced negative Soil Moisture Anomaly (SMA), indicating drought stress affecting agricultural productivity and water management.
- Conversely, about 47.7% of the geographical area had soil moisture levels exceeding historical averages, posing risks of flooding and waterlogging in rural and urban areas.
Seasonal Variations
- During June to September (monsoon period), Punjab benefited from positive SMA, enhancing agriculture productivity, while Odisha experienced near-average conditions.
- This suggests the potential for sharing water management practices between states.
- Pre-monsoon months (March to May) showed variability, with Punjab maintaining above-average soil moisture and Odisha facing slight deficits, highlighting the need for tailored water conservation strategies.
State-wise Analysis
- Punjab: Benefited from positive soil moisture anomalies during winter months, supporting winter crops and reducing reliance on irrigation.
- Odisha: Faced negative SMA in winter, indicating dry conditions compared to historical averages. Adopting efficient irrigation techniques from states like Punjab could mitigate deficits.
- Bihar and Jharkhand: Experienced below-average soil moisture, necessitating improved irrigation and water conservation methods to address potential drought impacts.
Regional Disparities:
- Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh: Showed above-average soil moisture levels with considerable variability, requiring robust water management policies for stable agriculture.
- Andhra Pradesh and Kerala: Displayed favorable soil moisture conditions during specific periods, emphasizing the need for customized water management plans.
- Assam: Requires adaptable agricultural practices due to varied soil moisture levels, while the Andaman and Nicobar Islands faced dry conditions, indicating the necessity for enhanced water management practices.
Recommendations and Conclusion
The study concludes by recommending:
- Development of region-specific water management policies, such as drought management plans in deficit areas and flood management strategies in surplus moisture areas.
- Investment in advanced soil moisture monitoring systems using remote sensing and ground-based sensors to enable real-time data for informed decision-making.
- Implementation of effective irrigation techniques and sustainable farming practices tailored to local soil moisture conditions to improve agricultural resilience and water resource management.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q4. Consider the Following statements with respect to Soil Moisture Anomaly (SMA):
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
|
Q. Consider the following pairs: (2014)
Programme/Project Ministry
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) None Ans: (d) |
| Answer 4 C
Explanation
|
Project PARI in news
Source: PIB
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2031567
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2- Polity and Governance:
Context: Project PARI (Public Art of India)
Why in news
- The Ministry of Culture on the occasion of the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee Meeting, which is being held in New Delhi from 21st-31st July 2024, has initiated Project PARI (Public Art of India).
About Project Pari
- Under Project PARI (Public Art of India), Lalit Kala Akademi, an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Culture, has invited more than 150 visual artists from all over the country.
- The Project PARI aims to provide a platform to uplift the aesthetic and cultural outlook of Delhi while adding grandeur to the rich historical legacy of our national capital.
- Lalit Kala Akademi and the National Gallery of Modern Art seek to bring forth public art that draws inspiration from millennia of artistic heritage (lok kala/lok sanskriti) while incorporating modern themes and techniques.
- These expressions underscore the intrinsic value that art holds in Indian society, serving as a testament to the nation’s enduring commitment to creativity and artistic expression.
- These artists are working on various sites in the national capital for the beautification of the public spaces for the upcoming event.
Significance of Project Pari
- Project PARI stands as a monumental effort to infuse Delhi with the rich and diverse artistic heritage of India, while simultaneously embracing contemporary themes and expressions.
- This cultural renaissance, brought to life by the collaborative efforts of over 150 visual artists, showcases the profound and multifaceted traditions of Indian art.
- By engaging citizens and fostering a shared cultural identity, the initiative not only enriches the urban landscape but also inspires a deeper connection with our heritage.
- The representation of Art in public spaces is particularly significant as it showcases the nation’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.
- The democratization of art through public installations transforms urban landscapes into accessible galleries, where art transcends the confines of traditional venues such as museums and galleries.
- By integrating art into streets, parks, and transit hubs, these initiatives ensure that artistic experiences are available to one and all.
- This inclusive approach fosters a shared cultural identity and enhances social cohesion, inviting citizens to engage with art in their day-to-day life.
- Project PARI aims to stimulate dialogue, reflection, and inspiration, contributing to the dynamic cultural fabric of the nation.
Visual Arts Forms Showcased
- Traditional art forms as well as sculptures, murals, and installations have been created under this beautification project.
- More than 150 visual artists from all over the country have come together to create the various wall paintings, murals, sculptures, and installations being prepared under this project.
- The creative canvas includes but is not limited to artwork inspired by and /or drawn in styles of Phad paintings (Rajasthan), Thangka painting (Sikkim/Ladakh), miniature painting (Himachal Pradesh), Gond art (Madhya Pradesh), Tanjore paintings (Tamil Nadu), Kalamkari (Andhra Pradesh), Alpona art (West Bengal), Cheriyal painting (Telangana), Pichhwai Painting (Rajasthan), Lanjia Saura (Odisha), Pattachitra (West Bengal), Bani Thani Painting (Rajasthan), Warli (Maharashtra), Pithora Art (Gujarat), Aipan (Uttarakhand), Kerala Murals (Kerala), Alpana art (Tripura) and more.
- The proposed sculptures being created for Project PARI include wide-ranging ideas such as paying tributes to nature, ideas inspired by the Natyashastra, Gandhi ji, toys of India, hospitality, ancient knowledge, Naad or Primeval Soun, Harmony of life, Kalpataru – the divine tree, etc.
- Furthermore, in sync with the proposed 46th World Heritage Committee Meeting, some of the artworks and sculptures draw inspiration from World Heritage Sites such as Bimbetka and the 7 natural World Heritage Sites in India find a special place in the proposed artworks.
Significance of Project Pari
- Public art in India blends traditional and contemporary art forms, offering a dynamic reflection of Lok Kala and Lok Sanskriti.
- It serves as a freely accessible medium that sparks curiosity and invites diverse interpretations among the public.
- Amid rapid urbanization, public art enhances city aesthetics, instills community pride, and enriches cultural identities.
- It leaves lasting impressions on viewers, shaping their perceptions and interactions with urban landscapes.
- Overall, public art in India embodies cultural enrichment, social engagement, and aesthetic enhancement, making it an integral part of urban and societal narratives.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q5. Consider, the following statements:
Statement-I: Project PARI, initiated by the Ministry of Culture for the 46th World Heritage Committee Meeting in Delhi, showcases over 150 visual artists blending traditional Indian art forms with contemporary themes. Statement-II: By integrating sculptures, murals, and installations inspired by diverse Indian traditions and World Heritage Sites, Project PARI enriches Delhi’s cultural landscape while inviting public engagement and fostering a deeper appreciation for art in urban spaces. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
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Q. The Prime Minister recently inaugurated the new Circuit House near Somnath Temple at Veraval. Which of the following statements are correct regarding Somnath Temple?
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: A |
| Answer 5 A
Explanation
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