Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – Care (03-12-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| International Relations: What UK’s assisted dying bill says, how it compares to Indian law |
| Polity: Coastal Shipping Bill introduced in Lok Sabha |
| Economy: Oxford study lauds PRAGATI monitoring of infra projects |
| Centre proposes GST panel-like body to push agriculture marketing reforms in states |
| Environment and Ecology: Seed Congress resolves to promote hybrid, biofortified crops |
What UK’s assisted dying bill says, how it compares to Indian law
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2 International Relations
Context: UK’s Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill
Why in News
The UK’s Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill proposes legalizing assisted dying, allowing terminally ill patients to end their lives with medical assistance
Overview
- The debate around assisted dying and euthanasia touches on deeply personal, ethical, and legal considerations.
- Assisted dying and euthanasia are contentious issues globally, involving ethical, legal, and medical debates.
- While proponents argue for patient autonomy and humane end-of-life options, detractors cite risks of misuse, particularly among vulnerable populations.
What Led to the Introduction of the Assisted Dying Bill in the UK?
- Changing Public Sentiment and Advocacy:
- Over recent years, there has been growing advocacy for the rights of terminally ill patients to have autonomy in deciding their end-of-life care.
- Proponents argue that current end-of-life care is insufficient for managing severe pain and suffering, necessitating more humane alternatives.
- Legal Restrictions:
- The UK’s strict laws against assisted suicide (punishable by up to 14 years in prison) have led to calls for reforms. Advocates believe the existing framework fails to address the suffering of terminally ill patients effectively.
- International Comparisons:
- Countries such as Switzerland, Canada, and parts of the United States have legal frameworks for assisted dying. The contrasting legal positions have spurred debates within the UK.
- Recurring Parliamentary Attempts:
- Since 2013, multiple bills have been introduced to legalize assisted dying, reflecting sustained interest and pressure from sections of society.
Procedure Provided in the Bill
The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill outlines a stringent and multi-stage procedure for assisted dying:
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Patient must be terminally ill, expected to die within six months, and have the mental capacity to make an informed decision.
- Only individuals aged 18 or older who have resided in England or Wales for at least 12 months qualify.
- Declaration and Assessment:
- A “first declaration” must be signed by the patient in the presence of a coordinating doctor and a witness.
- The coordinating doctor performs an assessment to confirm the request’s validity and the patient’s voluntary consent.
- A second independent doctor must also assess the request after a minimum seven-day reflection period.
- Judicial Review:
- The High Court of Justice reviews the request to ensure all procedural requirements are met. The decision can be appealed to the Court of Appeal if denied.
- Second Reflection and Administration:
- A 14-day reflection period follows court approval, after which the patient signs a second declaration.
- The patient is provided with an “approved substance” to self-administer. The coordinating doctor is not permitted to administer the substance.
Comparison with Indian Laws
- Current Position in India:
- Passive euthanasia was legalized by the Supreme Court in 2018 as part of the right to die with dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution.
- Passive euthanasia involves withdrawing life support to allow a natural death, differing from assisted dying, where the patient actively chooses the timing and method of death.
- Regulations for Passive Euthanasia:
- Requires either family consent or a “living will”/“advance directive” from the patient.
- Guidelines mandate multiple approvals from medical boards and administrative oversight to prevent misuse.
- Challenges in India:
- The process is bureaucratic and slow, making it less accessible for patients.
- Awareness and implementation of these guidelines remain limited.
- Unlike the UK’s proposed law, India’s framework lacks provisions for active patient involvement in end-of-life decisions.
- Draft Guidelines (2024):
- The Indian Ministry of Health’s draft guidelines aim to streamline the withdrawal of medical support but maintain the cautious approach of passive euthanasia.
Key Differences Between the UK Bill and Indian Law
| Aspect | UK Terminally Ill Adults Bill | Indian Passive Euthanasia Framework |
| Type | Assisted dying (active patient involvement) | Passive euthanasia (natural death allowed) |
| Eligibility | Terminally ill with <6 months to live | Terminally ill or in a permanent vegetative state |
| Procedure | Coordinating and independent doctor assessments; court review | Multiple medical boards and judicial oversight |
| Implementation | Patient self-administers approved substance | Withdrawal of life support |
| Challenges | Ethical concerns of misuse | Bureaucratic delays and lack of awareness |
Conclusion
- The proposed UK bill represents a progressive move towards legalizing assisted dying, focusing on safeguarding against misuse while granting autonomy to terminally ill patients.
- In contrast, India’s passive euthanasia framework remains cautious, emphasizing ethical safeguards and minimizing active involvement in end-of-life decisions. Both approaches reflect the unique cultural, ethical, and legal landscapes of their respective countries.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. With reference to the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill introduced in the UK, consider the following statements:
1. The Bill allows terminally ill patients to request assisted dying if their expected lifespan is six months or less. 2. Under the Bill, the final act of administering the approved substance is performed by the coordinating doctor. 3. In India, passive euthanasia is permitted under certain conditions as per a Supreme Court judgment. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? |
Q. Which one of the following statements best reflects the issue with Senkaku Islands, sometimes mentioned in the news? (2022)
a. It is generally believed that they are artificial islands made by a country around South China Sea. b. China and Japan engage in maritime disputes over these islands in East China Sea. c. A permanent American military base has been set up there to help Taiwan to increase its defence capabilities. d. Though International Court of Justice declared them as no man’s land, some South-East Asian countries claim them. Ans: B |
| Answer – 1 – B
Explanation –
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Coastal Shipping Bill introduced in Lok Sabha
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Economy
Context: Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024
Why in News
The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024 aims to promote Indian-flagged vessels for national security, boost coastal trade, streamline maritime regulations, and support domestic shipbuilding and employment.
Overview
- The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024, was introduced in the Lok Sabha by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, on December 2, 2024.
- This Bill is part of the government’s effort to strengthen India’s maritime sector, enhance national security, promote coastal trade, and support the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision by boosting domestic shipbuilding and employment.
Key Objectives of the Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024
- Encourage Coastal Trade:
The Bill seeks to facilitate the growth of coastal shipping by promoting Indian-flagged vessels owned and operated by Indian citizens. - National Security and Economic Growth:
It aims to ensure the participation of Indian-flagged ships to strengthen national security while addressing commercial needs. - Regulation of Coastal Trade:
The Bill prohibits foreign vessels from engaging in coastal trade without a license while permitting inland vessels to participate under specific conditions. - Support for Domestic Shipbuilding:
By mandating domestic building requirements for vessels, the Bill aims to boost the shipbuilding industry in India and create employment opportunities for Indian seafarers. - National Coastal and Inland Shipping Strategic Plan:
The Bill proposes the preparation of a comprehensive plan to ensure the systematic development of coastal shipping in the country. - Transparency and Information Sharing:
It seeks to establish a National Database for Coastal Shipping to ensure transparency, streamline processes, and aid in information sharing among stakeholders.
Key Provisions of the Bill
- Licensing Requirements:
- Foreign vessels cannot trade in coastal waters without a license.
- Inland vessels may engage in coastal trade subject to specific conditions.
- Licenses will be issued by the Director-General of Shipping after evaluating factors like citizenship of the crew and compliance with domestic building requirements.
- Safeguards for Licenses:
- Licenses granted under this Bill cannot be suspended, revoked, or modified without providing the licensee a reasonable opportunity to be heard.
- Regulation and Governance:
- The Bill addresses the lack of uniformity in the regulation of the coastal maritime sector by creating a consistent framework.
- Non-mechanized vessels currently governed by the outdated Coasting Vessel Act, 1838, and mechanized vessels under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, will be brought under the purview of the new legislation.
- Employment and Skill Development:
- The Bill emphasizes generating jobs for Indian seafarers by requiring Indian crew and promoting the shipbuilding sector.
Potential and Challenges of Coastal Shipping in India
- Geographic Advantage:
- With a coastline of approximately 7,500 km and proximity to key global shipping routes, India has immense potential to develop coastal shipping.
- Cost Efficiency:
- Coastal shipping is significantly cheaper compared to road and rail transportation, making it a cost-effective mode of transport.
- Environmental Benefits:
- It offers a greener alternative by reducing emissions compared to other transport modes.
Challenges Addressed by the Bill
- Fragmented Regulation:
- The maritime sector has long suffered from outdated and fragmented regulatory frameworks, leading to inefficiencies.
- Dependence on Foreign Ships:
- By promoting Indian-flagged vessels, the Bill seeks to reduce reliance on foreign vessels and enhance self-reliance.
Importance of the Bill
- Boosting Domestic Capabilities:
The Bill aligns with the government’s vision of promoting Make in India by enhancing shipbuilding and reducing reliance on foreign shipping. - Job Creation:
The focus on Indian-flagged vessels and Indian crew is expected to generate employment in the maritime sector. - Uniform Regulatory Framework:
By consolidating regulations under a single law, the Bill simplifies compliance and governance, enabling faster growth in coastal trade. - National Security:
Greater control over vessels operating in Indian waters will enhance maritime security.
Current Status and Next Steps
- The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024, was introduced in the Lok Sabha amid noisy protests by opposition members over unrelated issues.
- Following its introduction, the Bill will undergo discussion, potential amendments, and voting before being sent to the Rajya Sabha.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2 Consider the following statements regarding the Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024:
1. The Bill mandates that all coastal trade in India can only be conducted by Indian-flagged vessels unless licensed otherwise. 2. It proposes the creation of a National Coastal and Inland Shipping Strategic Plan. 3. It seeks to replace the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, entirely. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3 |
Q. Which one of the following regions of India has a combination of mangrove forest, evergreen forest and deciduous forest? (2015)
(a) North Coastal Andhra Pradesh Ans: (d)
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| Answer 2– A
Explanation –
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Oxford study lauds PRAGATI monitoring of infra projects
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Economy
Context: PRAGATI Infrastructure Monitoring System
Why in News
- The PRAGATI system is a digital governance initiative accelerating infrastructure projects in India.
Overview of the Booker Prize and Recent Winner
- The PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation) infrastructure monitoring system, launched in 2015, has been recognized by Oxford University’s Saïd Business School for its significant contribution to India’s economic and social development.
Key Features and Objectives of PRAGATI
PRAGATI is an innovative digital platform designed to:
- Accelerate Project Implementation: Focused on infrastructure projects across sectors like roads, railways, electricity, and water supply.
- Foster Collaboration: Brings together Central and State governments to overcome inter-ministerial and inter-departmental delays.
- Enhance Governance: Promotes accountability, transparency, and efficiency by leveraging modern tools such as real-time data and video conferencing.
- Improve Quality of Life: Ensures timely delivery of projects that impact the daily lives of millions.
Study Insights and Achievements of PRAGATI
Economic Impact
- Accelerated Projects: Since its launch, PRAGATI has expedited 340 projects worth $205 billion (approx. ₹17 lakh crore).
- Multiplier Effect: According to studies by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP), for every rupee spent on infrastructure, India’s GDP grows by ₹2.5 to ₹3.5, demonstrating the platform’s pivotal role in economic transformation.
- Inclusive Growth: PRAGATI ensures that the benefits of infrastructure projects reach even the most remote areas.
Innovative Approaches
- Real-Time Monitoring: Incorporates advanced technologies like drone feeds, real-time data collection, and video conferencing for seamless project tracking and issue resolution.
- Team India Mindset: Encourages a collaborative approach between Central and State governments, fostering a unified focus on national development goals.
Sustainability and Green Initiatives
- Environmental Clearances: Facilitates faster approvals for environmentally sustainable projects.
- Green Technologies: Promotes eco-friendly solutions in infrastructure development.
- Holistic Development: Ensures that India’s growth trajectory balances economic progress with environmental conservation.
Socio-Economic Benefits
- Quality of Life: By expediting essential services like roads, electricity, and water supply, PRAGATI directly enhances the standard of living for millions of Indians.
- Breaking Bureaucratic Bottlenecks: Reduces delays caused by bureaucratic inertia and inter-ministerial disputes.
- Development in Remote Areas: Ensures the fruits of development reach marginalized regions, contributing to inclusive growth.
Global Lessons from PRAGATI
The Oxford study highlights PRAGATI’s relevance beyond India, particularly for nations grappling with the Middle-Income Trap (a situation where middle-income countries struggle to transition to high-income status). It underscores the following lessons:
- Governance Innovation: Leveraging technology and fostering collaboration can unlock development potential.
- Strategic Investments: Infrastructure spending can have a transformative impact on GDP and economic stability.
- Sustainability and Inclusivity: Incorporating these principles into governance ensures long-term growth.
Conclusion
- The PRAGATI system exemplifies how leadership and governance reforms can overcome systemic inefficiencies and drive economic growth.
- By focusing on collaboration, technology, and sustainability, it has set a benchmark for infrastructure development that is inclusive, efficient, and impactful.
- The recognition by Oxford University further validates its success and potential for replication in other countries.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. Consider the following statements regarding India’s PRAGATI infrastructure monitoring system:
1. PRAGATI stands for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation. 2. The system aims to accelerate infrastructure projects and bring diverse stakeholders together on a single platform. 3. It has been lauded for improving India’s infrastructure project timelines and economic growth. 4. PRAGATI’s approach includes promoting green technologies and sustainability in its operations. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only |
Q. Consider the following statements: (2022)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a. 1 only b. 2 only c. Both 1 and 2 d. Neither 1 nor 2 Ans: B
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| Answer 3– D
Explanation –
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Centre proposes GST panel-like body to push agriculture marketing reforms in states
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3- Economy
Context: National Policy Framework on Agricultural Marketing
Why in News
- The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare’s committee has proposed the formation of an Empowered Committee of State Agriculture Ministers to push forward agricultural marketing reforms
Overview
- The National Policy Framework on Agricultural Marketing aims to reform the agricultural marketing system in India to make it more competitive, transparent, and accessible for farmers.
- The framework includes several key recommendations, such as the establishment of a committee of state agriculture ministers to push reforms, the creation of a unified national market for agricultural produce, and measures to address the challenges faced by farmers in selling their produce at better prices.
Key Points of the Framework:
- Constitution of an Empowered Committee of State Agriculture Ministers:
- The draft proposes forming a panel of state agriculture ministers, akin to the Empowered Committee of State Finance Ministers on GST. This committee would help drive the adoption of agricultural marketing reforms at the state level, ensuring the implementation of provisions in the State Agricultural Produce Marketing (Development & Regulation) Act 2003 and other reforms.
- The committee would be chaired by the agriculture minister of a state on a rotational basis, with agriculture ministers from other states as members. It could be registered under the Societies Registration Act of 1860, similar to the GST committee.
- This committee would meet regularly (quarterly or as needed) to address various agricultural marketing issues and ensure the adoption of reforms, such as single trading licenses and unified market fees across states, and would push for the creation of a unified national market for agricultural produce.
- Challenges in Agricultural Marketing:
- The committee has identified several barriers to the effective implementation of agricultural marketing reforms, such as stringent state-specific regulations and lack of enthusiasm from state governments. The absence of a national unified market for agricultural produce has fragmented the marketing system, making it harder for farmers to access broader markets and get better prices.
- The framework emphasizes the need for overcoming these barriers through greater cooperation among states and a unified approach to create a seamless, national-level market for agricultural products.
- 12 Areas of Reform:
- The committee has identified 12 key areas of reform to improve agricultural marketing:
- Allowing the establishment of private wholesale markets.
- Allowing direct wholesale purchases from farmers by processors, exporters, organized retailers, and bulk buyers.
- Declaring warehouses, silos, and cold storage as deemed market yards.
- Implementing a single, unified market fee across the state.
- Issuing one trading license valid across the state.
- Other reforms focus on improving infrastructure and enhancing farmers’ access to markets.
- The committee has identified 12 key areas of reform to improve agricultural marketing:
- Unified National Market:
- A significant portion of the draft emphasizes the creation of a unified national market for agricultural produce. The current system, where states legislate their own APMC (Agricultural Produce Market Committee) Acts, results in fragmented markets within states. This fragmentation leads to inefficiencies in the trade of agricultural products, limiting farmers’ access to larger and more profitable markets.
- Several commissions and committees have recommended the development of a national unified market to facilitate seamless trade across the country. The draft suggests the establishment of a single registration/license system for trading across states to improve market access for farmers.
- Price Insurance Mechanism:
- To ensure that farmers get better prices for their produce, the committee proposes a price insurance scheme modeled on the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). This scheme would provide insurance coverage to protect farmers from price crashes or price falls below a certain threshold level, just as PMFBY protects against production risks.
- PMFBY has been successful in stabilizing farmers’ income by providing financial support when crops fail due to natural disasters or pest attacks. A similar price assurance scheme would help mitigate price volatility in the market, ensuring that farmers receive a fair price for their produce.
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):
- The draft also stresses the importance of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in agricultural marketing reforms. By promoting these partnerships, the government can encourage private sector involvement in building the required infrastructure for agricultural marketing and distribution. This would help improve the efficiency of seed production, storage, and transportation, and ensure farmers have better access to markets.
- Significance of Agricultural Marketing Reforms:
- The committee notes that agricultural marketing reforms are essential to improving farmers’ livelihoods. By creating a barrier-free and more efficient marketing system, farmers can gain better access to markets, resulting in higher returns for their produce. The reforms are also crucial for the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector, especially in light of the challenges posed by climate change and fluctuating crop prices.
Conclusion:
- The draft National Policy Framework on Agricultural Marketing proposes a comprehensive set of reforms aimed at addressing the challenges faced by farmers in accessing markets, ensuring better prices for their produce, and improving the overall efficiency of agricultural marketing in India.
- By creating a unified national market, encouraging public-private partnerships, and introducing price insurance mechanisms, the framework seeks to enhance the competitiveness of the agricultural sector, ensuring long-term growth and economic sustainability for farmers.
- The constitution of an Empowered Agricultural Marketing Reform Committee is a key step in driving these reforms at the state level, fostering greater cooperation among states, and implementing reforms across the country.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q4. Which of the following is a key recommendation of the committee formed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare for agricultural marketing reforms in India?
Select the correct answer using the code below: a) Only One |
Q. Consider the following items: (2018)
Which of the above items is/are exempted under GST (Good and Services Tax)? (a) 1 only Ans: (c)
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| Answer 4- B
Explanation
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Seed Congress resolves to promote hybrid, biofortified crops
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Environment and Ecology
Context: 13th National Seed Congress (NSC)
Why in News
- The 13th National Seed Congress (NSC), held from November 28 to 30, 2024, was a significant event in India’s agricultural sector.
Overview
- The theme of the event, “Innovating for a Sustainable Seed Ecosystem”, focused on innovative practices and technologies aimed at addressing key challenges faced by farmers in India, particularly in light of climate change and the need for food and nutritional security.
Key Focus Areas of the NSC:
- Hybrid and Biofortified Crops: The Congress emphasized the importance of developing hybrid seeds and biofortified crops. Biofortified crops are genetically enriched with essential nutrients, aiming to tackle nutritional deficiencies in India. These crops are designed to improve the health of populations by providing micronutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin A, which are often deficient in the Indian diet. Biofortification can thus play a crucial role in achieving nutritional security in India.
- Climate-Resilient Practices: Given the increasing challenges posed by climate change, the Congress underscored the need for developing climate-resilient crops and farming practices. Technologies like Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) and zero-tillage farming were discussed as ways to reduce input costs and enhance agricultural productivity while minimizing environmental impact. These techniques help improve soil health, conserve water, and reduce the carbon footprint of farming.
- Accelerated Breeding Cycles: The NSC participants discussed the need to speed up breeding cycles to develop new, high-yielding, and climate-resilient crop varieties. This would allow for faster adaptation to changing environmental conditions and ensure a more stable food supply.
- Seed Bill and Policy Framework: A new Seeds Bill was also discussed as part of a broader policy overhaul to streamline the seed sector in India. The bill is expected to provide a legal framework for the regulation of seed production, distribution, and trade, ensuring quality and availability. Alongside this, the meeting also discussed the promotion of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in the seed sector. This collaboration is seen as crucial for fostering innovation, improving seed production efficiency, and ensuring the equitable distribution of quality seeds.
- Seed Entrepreneurship and Capacity Building: One of the outcomes of the NSC was the recognition of the importance of building a strong seed entrepreneurship ecosystem. Encouraging farmers to become entrepreneurs in seed production can help improve the local availability of seeds, reduce dependency on external markets, and boost local economies. Capacity building through training and education for farmers is vital to enhance their ability to implement advanced agricultural practices and use high-quality seeds effectively.
- Impact on Uttar Pradesh: Uttar Pradesh, one of India’s major agricultural states, was highlighted as a key region for the implementation of the recommendations from the NSC. The State Government has expressed its commitment to strengthen its seed systems and make the state a hub for quality seed production. This includes efforts to develop seed parks, where the production and processing of seeds will be concentrated, ensuring the availability of high-quality seeds to farmers in the region.
Role of Biofortification and Hybrid Crops:
- Biofortified Crops: The adoption of biofortified crops is considered a critical strategy to tackle malnutrition in India. These crops, through genetic modification or selective breeding, are made richer in essential micronutrients. For example, biofortified rice with higher levels of iron and zinc can address iron-deficiency anemia, a widespread issue in India.
- Hybrid Crops: Hybrid crops are developed by crossbreeding two different varieties of crops to obtain a hybrid with desirable traits such as higher yield, disease resistance, and stress tolerance. Hybrid varieties are crucial for enhancing productivity and profitability, especially in challenging climatic conditions.
Public-Private Partnerships:
- The NSC called for greater collaboration between the public and private sectors to enhance seed production, distribution, and research. This partnership is seen as key to accelerating the development of innovative seed technologies, especially in the context of climate-resilient crops and biofortification. PPP models could lead to the creation of better infrastructure for seed production, better access to research, and more effective dissemination of new seed varieties to farmers.
Role of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI):
- The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), represented by its Director-General Yvonne Pinto, highlighted the need for collective action to address the challenges posed by climate change, malnutrition, and food insecurity.
- IRRI advocates for integrating biofortified rice into school nutrition programs and promoting hybrid rice varieties. They also support the adoption of climate-resilient farming practices, which are essential for ensuring food security in a changing climate.
Economic Impact and Capacity Building:
- Seed Parks and Seed Entrepreneurship: The creation of seed parks and the promotion of seed entrepreneurship are key to boosting productivity and ensuring the availability of quality seeds. This approach is expected to empower farmers and contribute to the economic growth of regions that are traditionally dependent on agriculture.
- Supply Chain Improvements: Improved supply chains for seeds are crucial to ensuring that high-quality seeds are available to farmers, especially those in remote areas. Capacity building and training programs can help farmers better manage seed selection, storage, and usage.
Conclusion:
- The 13th National Seed Congress served as a significant milestone in India’s agricultural policy and research agenda. It set the stage for innovations in seed technology, with a focus on biofortification, climate-resilient crops, and hybrid varieties. The discussions also laid the groundwork for a more robust seed policy framework, with an emphasis on public-private partnerships and seed entrepreneurship to drive sustainable agricultural growth and improve the livelihood of farmers across the country.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q5. Consider the following statements regarding the 13th National Seed Congress (NSC), 2024:
1. The theme of the 13th NSC was “Innovating for a Sustainable Seed Ecosystem.” 2. The Congress emphasized the promotion of hybrid and biofortified crops, stress-tolerant varieties, and accelerated breeding cycles. 3. A new Seeds Bill was discussed as part of the policy framework to enhance seed entrepreneurship. 4. The Congress did not focus on climate-resilient agricultural practices. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1, 2, and 3 only
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Q. With reference to Indian elephants, consider the following statements: (2020)
1. The leader of an elephant group is a female. 2. The maximum gestation period can be 22 months. 3. An elephant can normally go on calving till the age of 40 years only. 4. Among the States in India, the highest elephant population is in Kerala. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only Ans: (a)
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| Answer 5- A
Explanation
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