Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – CARE (04-07-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Science and Technology: Spiral galaxies evolved 4 billion years sooner than expected |
| Board of revamped National Research Foundation in news |
| Polity and Governance: Smart Cities Mission extended till March 2025 |
| Centre reconstitutes 8 Cabinet panels; NDA partners find place in key bodies |
| International Relations: India to host UNESCO World Heritage Committee session in New Delhi from July 21 |
Spiral galaxies evolved 4 billion years sooner than expected
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3- Science and Technology
Context: Spiral galaxies
Why in news
- A new study published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters challenges previous beliefs about the formation timeline of spiral galaxies in the universe.
Background and Key Findings
- Researchers from the University of Missouri found a higher number of spiral galaxies in the early universe than previously thought.
Study Details and Methodology
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- Participants: The study involved a team of astronomers who used the James Webb Space Telescope to analyze 873 galaxies, identifying 216 as spiral galaxies.
- Observations: They observed galaxies dating back to 1.5 billion years after the Big Bang, indicating early spiral galaxy formation.
- Verification Process: The classification of galaxies as spiral or non-spiral was meticulously reviewed by multiple astronomers to ensure accuracy and minimize bias.
- Implications for Astrophysics and Galaxy Formation Theories
- Evolution of Galaxies: The findings suggest that spiral galaxies formed earlier than previously estimated, challenging existing theories that spiral formation occurred much later in cosmic history.
- Complexity of Models: Astrophysical models may need adjustments to accommodate these new observations, indicating a more intricate relationship between galaxy formation, star formation rates, and the presence of elements crucial for planet formation.
- Future Directions: Astronomers emphasize the need for further studies to refine theoretical models and better understand the complex processes involved in galaxy evolution.
Spiral Galaxies:
- Spiral galaxies are a common type of galaxy characterised by their distinctive spiral arms extending from a central bulge.
- These arms contain a concentration of stars, gas, and dust, giving the galaxy its spiral appearance.
- Spiral galaxies often exhibit ongoing star formation and are categorised into several subtypes based on the prominence of their central bulge and the tightness of their spiral arms.
- They are integral to understanding galaxy evolution and cosmic structure.
Formation and Evolution of Galaxies
- Initial Universe State: As the universe cooled from a dense plasma, it formed hot gas clumps that became galaxies.
- Traditional Theory: Early galaxies were irregular and lacked disks; over billions of years, they cooled and formed spiral arms.
- New Insight: The cooling and spiral formation may have occurred simultaneously.
Research Methods and Technology
- Detecting Early Galaxies: Utilised infrared and optical wavelengths.
- James Webb Space Telescope: Enabled deeper observations into the universe’s past.
- Study Sample: Examined 873 galaxies and identified at least 216 spiral galaxies dating to 1.5 billion years after the Big Bang.
- Researchers manually classified each galaxy image as spiral or non-spiral.
Increased Fraction of Spiral Galaxies
- Researchers compared the number of spiral galaxies to the total number of galaxies.
- Between 3 billion and 7 billion years after the Big Bang, the fraction of spiral galaxies increased from about 8% to 48%.
- Prior observations indicated an increase from 5% to 30%.
Impact on Star Formation Understanding
- New findings could alter the understanding of star formation rates in the early universe.
- Crucial for understanding formation earth-like planets, dependent on the presence of elements heavier than iron.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q1. Recently, researchers from the University of Missouri found a higher number of spiral galaxies in the early universe than previously thought. Which of the following statements are correct regarding this discovery?
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
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Q. Which of the following is/are cited by the scientists as evidence/evidences for the continued expansion of universe? (2012)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 (d) None of the above can be cited as evidence Ans: (a) |
| Answer 1 B
Explanation
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Board of revamped National Research Foundation in news
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3- Science and technology, Economy
Context: Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)
Why in News
- The executive and governing boards of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has no representation from Indian industry, suggests a perusal of the list of members made public by the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST).
National Research Foundation (NRF)
- The National Research Foundation (NRF) is a proposed institution aimed at replacing India’s Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB).
- It seeks to drive interdisciplinary research to support India’s developmental goals by fostering impactful knowledge creation and application.
- Goals of NRF
- The NRF aims to encourage research that addresses India’s critical development challenges through interdisciplinary approaches.
- One of NRF’s objectives is to reduce redundant research efforts by coordinating and optimizing resource allocation.
- It strives to facilitate the translation of research outcomes into policies and practices that benefit society.
- Features of NRF
- Presidential Leadership: The NRF will be overseen by the Prime Minister.
- Directorates: It will encompass 10 major directorates focusing on diverse fields such as science, arts, humanities, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
- Board Composition: The NRF’s 18-member board will include eminent Indian and international scientists, senior government officials, and industry leaders.
- Legal Entity: NRF will operate as a registered society with an independent secretariat.
Lack of Representation in Executive and Governing Boards
- The composition of the executive and governing boards of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has raised concerns due to the absence of key stakeholders.
- Notably, Indian industry, which was expected to play a pivotal role in funding and strategic direction, is conspicuously absent.
- This contradicts the ANRF Act’s stated goal of leveraging substantial funding from non-government sources, including industry and philanthropists.
Exclusion of State Universities
- Another notable omission from the ANRF boards is representation from State universities.
- These institutions were anticipated to be major beneficiaries under the new structure aimed at revitalizing scientific research in India.
- Their absence from the decision-making bodies may impact the Foundation’s ability to effectively cater to diverse research needs across the country.
Implications for ANRF’s Strategic Goals
- The lack of representation from Indian industry and State universities raises questions about ANRF’s ability to achieve its strategic objectives effectively.
- With a significant portion of its funding dependent on non-government sources, the absence of industry voices in the governance structure could hinder collaboration and innovation in scientific research.
- Similarly, the exclusion of State universities may limit ANRF’s reach and impact in fostering inclusive and comprehensive research initiatives nationwide.
Current Board Composition and Representation
- Despite the provision to include up to five members from business or industry, the ANRF’s current board includes only one industrialist, Romesh Wadhwani.
- This suggests a potential gap in fulfilling the intended representation from the business sector.
- Apart from industry, the board includes representation from academia and scientific advisors.
Comparison with the SERB
- The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), established in 2008, was the predecessor to the ANRF.
- It was set up during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government to provide strategic direction to technological research.
- The SERB, chaired by the Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), had a structure that included representation from Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), university chancellors, and industry representatives like Intel India.
- In contrast to the SERB, the ANRF represents a broader spectrum of research areas, including science, engineering, IT, liberal arts, social sciences, and humanities.
- Moreover, it has the capability to both fund and receive funds from private sources, philanthropic organizations, and international entities, marking a significant expansion in scope and funding capabilities.
Significance of ANRF Reforms
- The ANRF introduces an expansive definition of research that encompasses a wide range of disciplines beyond traditional science and engineering, acknowledging the interdisciplinary nature of modern research.
- Unlike the SERB, which primarily funded research, the ANRF can also receive funding from diverse sources, enhancing its financial sustainability and flexibility in supporting research initiatives.
- The ANRF has been allocated ₹2,000 crore for the 2024-2025 financial year, indicating substantial financial backing aimed at bolstering research and innovation in India.
Challenges and Criticisms
- One of the criticisms highlighted in the text is the limited representation of Indian industrialists on the ANRF Governing Board, despite provisions in the Act to include up to five members from business organizations or industry.
- Stakeholders citing examples such as Romesh Wadhwani as evidence of industry participation.
- However, concerns remain regarding broader industrial representation.
- Insights from a senior scientist suggest that the ANRF was envisioned to have a more dynamic and minimally bureaucratic structure initially.
- However, the current composition reflects a balance between reforms and continuity from the SERB.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q2. Which of the following statements about India’s proposed National Research Foundation (NRF) is correct?
Correct code:
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Q. With reference to the Genetically Modified mustard (GM mustard) developed in India, consider the following statements: (2018)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (b) |
| Answer 2- B
Explanation
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Smart Cities Mission extended till March 2025
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS 2- Polity and Governance
Context: Smart Cities Mission launched in June 2015, aims to promote sustainable and inclusive development by creating model cities with smart solutions.
Why in News
- The Indian government has extended the Smart Cities Mission until March 2025 to ensure that the 100 smart cities under the mission can complete their projects.
Background
- The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) was launched by the Union Urban Development Ministry in June 2015 with the objective of developing 100 cities across India as ‘smart cities’.
- These cities were selected through a competitive process to receive funding and support for comprehensive development.
Progress and Achievements
- As of the latest update, more than 8,000 multi-sectoral projects have been initiated under the SCM, amounting to approximately ₹1.6 lakh crore.
- As of July 3, the 100 cities have completed 90% of these projects, totaling ₹1,44,237 crore.
- The remaining 10% of projects, amounting to ₹19,926 crore, are in advanced stages of completion.
Extension of the Smart Cities Mission
- Due to multiple requests from state and city government representatives citing delays caused by on-ground conditions, the Government of India has extended the mission period until March 31, 2025.
- This extension applies specifically to the balance 10% of projects that are nearing completion.
- Importantly, this extension does not involve any additional financial burden beyond the originally approved ₹48,000 crore budget allocated for the mission.
Financial Overview
- Out of the allocated budget of ₹48,000 crore, ₹46,585 crore (97%) has already been released to the cities. Of these funds, 93% have been utilized as of the current date.
- The extension period aims to ensure that all ongoing projects are completed within the existing financial framework by March 31, 2025.
What is the Smart Cities Mission?
- What is the Smart Cities Mission is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, launched in June 2015 to transform 100 cities to provide the necessary core infrastructure and clean and sustainable environment to enable a decent quality of life to their citizens through the application of “Smart Solutions”.
- The mission aims to meet the aspirations of India’s population living in cities through various urban development projects.
- Features:
- Among its strategic components is ‘area-based development’, which includes city improvement (retrofitting), city renewal (redevelopment) and city extension (greenfield development), plus a pan-city initiative in which ‘smart solutions’ are applied covering larger parts of the city.
- Key focus areas of the scheme include construction of walkways, pedestrian crossings, cycling tracks, efficient waste-management systems, integrated traffic management and assessment.
- The scheme also assesses various indices to track urban development such as the Ease of Living Index, Municipal Performance Index, City GDP framework, Climate Smart Cities assessment framework, etc.
- Status:
- The period of implementation of SCM has been extended to June 2023.
- The SCM has so far covered over 140 public-private partnerships, 340 ‘smart roads’, 78 ‘vibrant public places’, 118 ‘smart water’ projects and over 63 solar projects.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q3. Consider the following statements regarding the Smart Cities Mission in India:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 1 and 3 only C. 1 and 2 only D. 1, 2, and 3 |
Q. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Smart India Hackathon 2017? (2017)
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Ans: B |
| Answer 3– A
Explanation –
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Union government reconstituted eight Cabinet committees
Source: The Hindustan Times
UPSC Relevance: GS2- Polity and Government
Context: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) and the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA).
Why in News
- The Union government reconstituted eight Cabinet committees, making room for members from NDA allies in the all-important Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) and the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA).
Reconstitution of Cabinet Committees: Key Changes and Details
- Minister of Heavy Industries and Steel, HD Kumaraswamy (Janata Dal (Secular)), and Minister of Panchayati Raj and Animal Husbandry, Lalan Singh (Janata Dal (United)), have been included as members, marking the first addition of NDA allies since August 2020.
- CCEA is headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the committee also includes prominent ministers such as Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Nirmala Sitharaman, and S Jaishankar among others.
- CCPA Members now include MSME Minister Jitin Ram Majhi (HAM) and Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu (Telugu Desam Party), reintroducing alliance representation after August 2020.
- Alongside the Prime Minister, members comprise senior ministers like Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari, and Nirmala Sitharaman, among others.
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA)
- The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs is chaired by the Prime Minister.
- The CCEA is the highest executive body responsible for decisions on industrial policies, major investment proposals, and key economic issues.
Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA)
- The CCPA oversees critical political decisions of the government, influencing key policy directions.
- It addresses problems related to Centre-state relations and examines economic and political issues that require a wider perspective but have no internal or external security implications.
Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC)
- Responsible for key appointments in the government, the ACC continues to be chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and includes Home Minister Amit Shah as its only members.
- Cabinet committees are periodically reconstituted to reflect changes in ministerial portfolios and include or exclude new ministers or alliance partners.
- The most recent reconstitution occurred on December 8, 2023, following the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, adjusting membership to align with current political dynamics and administrative priorities.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ | ||||||||||
Q4. Consider the following pairs regarding the recent reconstitution of eight Cabinet committees by the Union government:
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
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Q. With reference to the Parliament of India, which of the following Parliamentary Committees scrutinizes and reports to the House whether the powers to make regulations, rules, sub-rules, by-laws, etc. conferred by the Constitution or delegated by the Parliament are being properly exercised by the Executive within the scope of such delegation? (2018)
(a) Committee on Government Assurances (b) Committee on Subordinate Legislation (c) Rules Committee (d) Business Advisory Committee Answer – (b) |
| Answer 4 B
Explanation
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India to host UNESCO World Heritage Committee session in New Delhi from July 21
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2- International Relations
Context: UNESCO World Heritage Committee
Why in News
- The 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee is scheduled to be held from July 21 to July 31, hosted by India at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
Participants and Attendees
- Delegates: Over 2,500 delegates are expected to attend, including representatives from State Parties, advisory bodies, senior diplomats, heritage experts, scholars, and researchers from 195 countries.
- State Parties: These are countries that have adhered to the World Heritage Convention.
Organizers and Inauguration
- The event is organized by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
- It is likely to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 21, 2024.
Role and Responsibilities of the World Heritage Committee
- Composition: The committee comprises representatives from 21 State Parties elected by the UNESCO General Assembly.
- Responsibilities: It oversees the implementation of the World Heritage Convention, including decisions on inscribing sites on the World Heritage List and allocating financial assistance from the World Heritage Fund.
- Previous Session: The 45th session was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India
- Number of Sites: India currently has 42 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Recent Addition: Santiniketan, associated with Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, became the 41st site to be declared a World Heritage Site in India in September 2023.
Background of the World Heritage Convention
- The World Heritage Committee operates under the convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, adopted by the UNESCO General Conference in 1972.
- Rules of Procedure: These were last revised in 2015 during the 39th session in Bonn, Germany.
- UNESCO’s Headquarters are located in Paris and the Organization has more than 50 field offices around the world.
- It has 193 Members and 11 Associate Members (As of April 2020) and is governed by the General Conference and the Executive Board.
- Three UNESCO member states are not UN members: Cook Islands, Niue, and Palestine.
- While three UN member states (Israel, Liechtenstein, United States) are not UNESCO members.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q5. Which of the following statements about the UNESCO World Heritage Committee session hosted by India is correct?
A. The session will be held in New Delhi at Bharat Mandapam from July 21 to July 31, 2024. B. The World Bank is responsible for the implementation of the World Heritage Convention. C. The World Heritage Committee comprises representatives from 25 State Parties elected by the UNESCO General Assembly. D. This is the first time India is hosting the UNESCO World Heritage Committee session. |
Q. Which one of the following National Parks has a climate that varies from tropical to subtropical, temperate and arctic? (2015)
(a) Khangchendzonga National Park (b) Nandadevi National Park (c) Neora Valley National Park (d) Namdapha National Park Ans: (d) |
| Answer 5 A
Explanation
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