Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – CARE (04-11-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Science and Technology: First science result from Aditya-L1 mission is out |
| Recalling Laika, the first living creature to orbit the earth in Sputnik 2 |
| Environment and Ecology: UN nature summit agrees on payments for use of genetic information |
| Polity and Governance: Panel examining SC tag for all Dalit converts gets one-year extension |
| Art and Culture: Why India’s ‘Adopt a Heritage’ programme needs a more enlightened approach – |
| Social Issues- University rankings and academic metrics that raise eyebrows |
First science result from Aditya-L1 mission is out
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3 Science and Technology
Context: Aditya-L1 mission
Why in News
- The first science result from the Aditya-L1 mission, India’s first scientific mission dedicated to studying the Sun, is out.
Overview
- The Aditya-L1 mission is India’s first dedicated scientific initiative aimed at studying the Sun, marking a significant milestone in the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) exploration portfolio.
- Launched on September 2, 2023, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, this mission was developed to provide in-depth observations of solar phenomena, particularly coronal mass ejections (CMEs), which are explosive releases of plasma and magnetic energy from the Sun’s corona.
- Aditya-L1 is the first space based observatory class Indian solar mission to study the Sun from a substantial distance of 1.5 million kilometers. It will take approximately 125 days to reach the L1 point.
Aditya-L1 Mission
- Aditya-L1 is also ISRO’s second astronomy observatory-class mission after AstroSat (2015).
- The mission’s journey is notably shorter than India’s previous Mars orbiter mission, Mangalyaan.
- The spacecraft is planned to be placed in a halo orbit around the Lagrangian point 1 (L1) of the Sun-Earth system.
Key Payload: Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC)
- The Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC) is the primary scientific instrument aboard Aditya-L1.
- Developed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIAp) in Bengaluru, VELC’s unique capabilities allow it to observe the Sun’s corona—the outermost part of its atmosphere—close to the solar surface.
- Unlike traditional coronagraphs that only capture CMEs once they have propagated away from the Sun, VELC can monitor CMEs at their point of origin.
- This capability provides unprecedented insights into the plasma characteristics and thermodynamic properties of these powerful solar eruptions.
First Scientific Results: July 16 CME Observation
- The first major science outcome from the Aditya-L1 mission involved the precise estimation of the onset time of a CME that erupted on July 16, 2024.
- This was a significant achievement for the team at IIAp, as it demonstrated VELC’s potential in detecting and analyzing solar activities close to the Sun’s surface.
- The team behind this discovery, including researchers Ramesh, V. Muthupriyal, Jagdev Singh, K. Sasikumar Raja, P. Savarimuthu, and Priya Gavshinde, will publish their findings in the Astrophysical Journal Letters.
Importance of Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs)
CMEs are colossal bursts of solar plasma and magnetic fields expelled from the Sun’s corona. These eruptions are among the most energetic events in the solar system and have significant implications for space weather. When a CME interacts with the Earth’s magnetosphere, it can:
- Disrupt satellite electronics.
- Interfere with radio and communication networks.
- Pose risks to astronauts and affect space missions.
Understanding CMEs, therefore, is crucial for improving predictive capabilities and mitigating the impact on technology and communication systems on Earth.
Unique Observations by VELC
- The novelty of the VELC’s spectroscopic data, which allows researchers to observe CMEs close to the Sun’s surface.
- This data helps in understanding the early development of CMEs, which has traditionally been challenging due to observational limitations.
- Studying the thermodynamic properties of CMEs near the Sun is essential for identifying their source regions and understanding the conditions that lead to their formation.
- The VELC’s precise measurements in visible emission lines allow scientists to gather information on these properties for the first time.
Continuous Monitoring and Future Implications
- With the Sun moving towards the maximum phase of Solar Cycle 25, the frequency of CMEs is expected to increase. Continuous monitoring by VELC is anticipated to generate valuable data that can enhance our understanding of solar activity and improve space weather forecasting.
- These observations are in line with the major science goals of the instrument, which include studying CMEs at their source and analyzing their plasma dynamics.
- Such data not only contribute to fundamental solar physics research but also have practical applications in safeguarding Earth-based and space-based technologies.
Mission’s Trajectory and Orbit
- The Aditya-L1 spacecraft reached a halo orbit around the first Earth-Sun Lagrange point (L1) on January 6, 2024, about four months post-launch.
- This position, located approximately 5 million kilometers from Earth, offers an uninterrupted view of the Sun.
- The mission is designed for a life span of five years, during which it will provide continuous solar observations and help scientists build a comprehensive profile of solar behavior, especially during the active phases of the solar cycle.
Conclusion
- The Aditya-L1 mission, with its innovative VELC payload, represents a significant step forward in solar research for India.
- The mission’s first scientific result—accurately estimating the onset of a CME—demonstrates the payload’s effectiveness and paves the way for future studies on solar phenomena.
- These insights will be critical for understanding space weather and protecting modern technological infrastructure on Earth.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the Aditya-L1 mission:
1. The Aditya-L1 mission is India’s first scientific mission dedicated to studying the Sun. 2. The Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC) onboard Aditya-L1 was developed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIAp), Bengaluru. 3. The Aditya-L1 spacecraft is positioned in geostationary orbit to observe the Sun. 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 statements best reflects the idea behind the “Fractional Orbital Bombardment System” often talked about in media? (2022)
a) A hypersonic missile is launched into space to counter the asteroid approaching the Earth and explode it in space; b) A spacecraft lands on another planet after making several orbital motions. c) A missile is put into a stable orbit around the Earth and deorbits over a target on the Earth. d) A spacecraft moves along a comet with the same speed and places a probe on its surface. Ans. c |
| Answer 1– A
Explanation – · Statement 1: Correct. The Aditya-L1 mission is indeed India’s first dedicated scientific mission for studying the Sun. This mission marks a significant milestone for ISRO in terms of solar research. · Statement 2: Correct. The Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC), which is the primary payload onboard Aditya-L1, was developed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIAp), Bengaluru. VELC is designed to observe coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and other solar phenomena close to the Sun’s surface. · Statement 3: Incorrect. The Aditya-L1 spacecraft is not in a geostationary orbit. It is positioned in a halo orbit around the first Earth-Sun Lagrange point (L1), which is located approximately 1.5 million kilometers from Earth. This unique position allows the spacecraft to have a continuous, unobstructed view of the Sun.
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Recalling Laika, the first living creature to orbit the earth in Sputnik 2
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Relevance: GS3- Science and Technology
Context: ‘Sputnik 2’ and Laika.
Why in News
- Recently, the Soviet Union launched ‘Sputnik 2’ and made history by sending the first-ever living creature to orbit Earth, a dog named Laika.
Introduction:
- The launch of Sputnik 2 was part of the Soviet Union’s early space exploration efforts that marked a significant turning point in the space race between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War era.
- The success of Sputnik 1, which was launched on October 4, 1957, had already established the Soviet Union as the leader in space technology.
- Following this milestone, Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev sought a follow-up mission that would coincide with the 40th anniversary of the Bolshevik Revolution, symbolizing the Soviet Union’s progress and technological might.
The Purpose of the Sputnik 2 Mission
- While Sputnik 1 was a simple, beeping satellite that confirmed the feasibility of placing objects into orbit, Sputnik 2 was designed with a more ambitious goal—to send a living organism into space to study the effects of space travel on biological systems.
- This mission aimed to:
- Assess the ability of a living being to survive the conditions of microgravity and space travel.
- Provide valuable data on how an organism responds to the conditions of space, such as weightlessness and exposure to cosmic radiation.
Selection of Laika
- Laika, originally named Kudryavka (“Little Curly”), was chosen for the mission from among several stray dogs sourced from the streets of Moscow.
- The rationale behind selecting stray dogs was their presumed resilience and adaptability to harsh conditions.
- Laika was selected due to her small size, which fit the limited space available in the spacecraft, and her calm temperament, which was crucial for withstanding the stresses of the launch and space environment.
Key characteristics for selection:
- Female dogs were preferred as their anatomy made them easier to fit with equipment in the confined space of the capsule.
- Dogs with bright fur were chosen to ensure clearer visibility in video footage.
- Laika’s training involved being confined in small cages and experiencing simulations of rocket launches to condition her for the actual flight.
Details of the Mission
Sputnik 2 was launched on November 3, 1957, just a month after Sputnik 1. The spacecraft was equipped with:
- A pressurized cabin that allowed Laika to lie down or stand.
- An air regeneration system that supplied oxygen and food in a gelatinized form.
- Monitoring equipment, including a harness, a waste collection bag, and electrodes to measure vital signs such as heart rate and respiration.
Challenges and Outcome
- Although Laika was alive and able to function immediately after launch, the conditions inside the spacecraft soon became problematic:
- Thermal regulation failures caused the temperature inside the capsule to rise significantly.
- Laika’s heart rate and breathing rate surged due to the stress and pressure of the launch. Her heart rate increased to three times the normal level, indicating significant distress.
- Reports later revealed that Laika only survived for a few hours due to the combination of heat and stress, contrary to the initial plan where she was expected to survive for up to 10 days until the oxygen supply ran out.
Scientific and Historical Significance
Despite Laika’s tragic fate, the Sputnik 2 mission was pivotal in advancing human space exploration:
- It was the first mission to send a living organism into orbit, providing the first data on the behavior of a biological entity in space.
- The mission demonstrated the feasibility of life support systems in space, laying the groundwork for human space travel.
- The knowledge gained from Laika’s mission contributed to the safety and design of future spacecraft that would carry humans, including Yuri Gagarin’s historic flight in 1961 when he became the first human to orbit Earth.
Ethical Reflections and Legacy
- Over the years, the treatment of Laika and the use of animals in space research have been subjects of ethical debate.
- The mission highlighted the sacrifices made by animals in the name of scientific progress.
- In 1993, Oleg Gazenko, a scientist and dog trainer involved in the mission, expressed regret over Laika’s suffering, acknowledging the ethical cost of the mission.
- NASA’s Perspective: The space agency noted that without animal testing in the early stages of space programs, both Soviet and American space programs would have faced greater risks to human life. The animals paved the way for safe human space exploration by providing invaluable data on survival in the space environment.
Conclusion:
- Laika’s journey, although brief and tragic, remains a significant part of space exploration history.
- It underscored the challenges of early space missions and the ethical considerations that come with pushing the boundaries of human knowledge.
- The mission’s legacy continues to inspire discussions on the balance between scientific advancement and the humane treatment of living beings.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2. With reference to the historical mission of Sputnik 2 launched by the Soviet Union, consider the following statements:
1. Sputnik 2 was the first artificial satellite launched into orbit by the Soviet Union. 2. Laika, a female dog, was chosen for the mission because of her obedience and ability to withstand harsh conditions. 3. The mission of Sputnik 2 successfully returned Laika back to Earth after the study. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 only (C) 1 and 3 only (D) 2 and 3 only |
Q. With reference to the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), consider the following statements: (2018)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 1 and 2 only c) 2 and 3 only d) None
|
| Answer 2 – B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is incorrect. The first artificial satellite launched by the Soviet Union was Sputnik 1, not Sputnik 2. · Statement 2 is correct. Laika, a female stray dog, was chosen for the mission because of her calm temperament and ability to adapt to difficult conditions. · Statement 3 is incorrect. Laika did not survive the mission; she died a few hours after the launch due to thermal issues and stress in the capsule. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
UN Nature summit agrees on payments for use of genetic information
Source: Reuters
UPSC Relevance: GS3-Environment and Ecology
Context: Overview of the COP16 Agreement on Genetic Information
Why in News
- At the United Nations COP16 (Conference of the Parties) on biodiversity held in Cali, Colombia, nearly 200 countries reached a significant agreement regarding the use of genetic information derived from biodiversity.
Overview of the COP16 Agreement on Genetic Information
- This move is part of implementing the 2022 Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework aimed at reversing the rapid decline of global biodiversity by 2030.
Payments for Genetic Information:
- Companies in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and biotechnology are required to contribute financially when using genetic data from nature in their research and development.
- Genetic information, which is derived from plants, animals, or microorganisms, is crucial for innovations that lead to products like nutrient-enriched crops or enzyme-based manufacturing processes (e.g., stone-washed jeans).
Funding for Conservation and Indigenous Communities:
- The agreement stipulates that payments from qualifying companies will go to a newly established Cali fund, named after the host city of COP16.
- This fund will be instrumental in channeling resources toward nature conservation efforts.
- Importantly, half of the proceeds from the fund will be directed to Indigenous peoples and local communities, recognizing their critical role in preserving biodiversity and their traditional knowledge systems.
Proposed Contribution Rates:
- Companies using genetic information are expected to contribute either 1% of their revenue or 1% of their profits to the fund.
- This mechanism is designed to ensure that businesses that benefit from biodiversity contribute back to conservation efforts.
- Significance for Indigenous and Local Communities:
- As part of the broader outcomes of COP16, an agreement was reached to create a permanent body for Indigenous and local communities to provide formal consultation on U.N. biodiversity decisions.
- Additionally, the contributions to the fund will recognize the role of Afro-descendant communities in conservation, highlighting their importance in maintaining ecosystems and biodiversity.
Challenges and Negotiations:
- The deal faced significant challenges during negotiations. Disagreements primarily between India and Switzerland extended discussions throughout the night and beyond dawn.
- The contention revolved around how contributions should be structured and implemented.
- Despite these hurdles, the agreement was eventually adopted, demonstrating the collective commitment of participating nations to integrate economic responsibility into biodiversity protection.
Industry Impact and Corporate Response:
- The measure is expected to affect major industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and biotechnology, all of which rely on genetic resources for developing products.
- Daphne Yong-D’Herve from the International Chamber of Commerce mentioned that businesses are committed to supporting biodiversity goals and have been involved in the discussions leading to the agreement.
- Glenn Walker, the head of the nature program at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, noted that this decision signals a clear message to large corporations to contribute financially to the protection of nature.
Broader Implications:
- The agreement aligns with the goals set out in the 2022 Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which seeks to halt and reverse biodiversity loss. This includes preserving ecosystems, promoting sustainable use of biodiversity, and ensuring equitable sharing of benefits from genetic resources.
- The establishment of the Cali fund could potentially generate billions of dollars that will be reinvested into conservation and supporting local communities that have historically protected and managed biodiversity-rich areas.
Conclusion:
- The COP16 agreement marks a pivotal step in linking the economic benefits derived from genetic resources with responsibility and conservation.
- By ensuring that companies contribute to the preservation of biodiversity, the agreement promotes a fairer and more sustainable approach to using the planet’s genetic resources.
- The recognition of Indigenous and Afro-descendant communities further strengthens the role of traditional knowledge in modern conservation efforts, setting a precedent for future environmental agreements.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. With reference to the agreements reached at the United Nations COP16 on biodiversity held in Cali, Colombia, consider the following statements:
1. The COP16 agreement mandates that companies in sectors such as pharmaceuticals and biotechnology contribute a percentage of their revenue or profit when using genetic information from nature. 2. The proceeds from these contributions are directed solely to government conservation programs without any allocation to Indigenous and local communities. 3. The creation of a permanent body for consultation with Indigenous and local communities on U.N. nature decisions was also part of the COP16 outcomes. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (A) 1 only (B) 2 and 3 only (C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2, and 3 |
Q. “Momentum for Change: Climate Neutral Now” is an initiative launched by (2018)
(a) The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Ans: (c)
|
| Answer 3 C
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct. The COP16 agreement requires companies using genetic information to contribute either 0.1% of their revenue or 1% of their profits to a conservation fund called the Cali fund. · Statement 2 is incorrect. The proceeds from the fund are not solely directed to government conservation programs; half of the proceeds are designated for Indigenous and local communities to support their role in biodiversity conservation. · Statement 3 is correct. A permanent body for Indigenous and local communities to consult on U.N. biodiversity decisions was agreed upon during the COP16 talks. · Therefore, option C is the correct answer. |
Panel examining SC tag for all Dalit converts gets one-year extension
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2– Polity and Governance
Context: Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950
Why in News
- The Commission of Inquiry, set up by the Centre in 2022 to examine if Scheduled Caste status can be granted to all Dalit converts, has been granted a one-year extension to submit its report.
Background and Current SC Status Eligibility
- Scheduled Caste Status in India: Under the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950, only individuals who follow Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism are eligible for classification as Scheduled Castes. This status allows certain benefits such as reservation in education and employment, which are intended to counteract historical and systemic social discrimination.
- Exclusion of Dalit Converts: Dalits who convert to religions like Christianity or Islam have historically been excluded from SC benefits, a matter that has been contentious for many years. This exclusion has been based on the argument that the caste system, as defined in Hindu social structures, does not translate identically into these religious communities.
Formation of the Commission of Inquiry
- Purpose: The Centre formed a three-member commission in October 2022, led by former Chief Justice of India K.G. Balakrishnan, to investigate the potential extension of SC status to Dalit converts to religions outside of Hinduism, Sikhism, and Buddhism. This move came as the Supreme Court was about to hear a long-pending case regarding this issue.
- Mandate: The commission is tasked with examining historical, social, and economic data to determine whether Dalit converts to Christianity or Islam face similar discrimination as SCs who follow Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism. The aim is to understand if the socio-economic disadvantages of Dalits persist after conversion and if so, to what extent.
Extension and Delays in the Commission’s Work
- Initial and Revised Deadlines: The commission was originally given a two-year period to complete its work and submit a report by October 10, 2024. However, it has now received an extension of one year, moving the deadline to October 10, 2025.
- Challenges Faced: The commission faced significant delays in beginning its work due to administrative issues, such as the lack of a permanent office and adequate staffing. Field visits, a vital part of its investigative process, only began in August 2023.
Current Progress of the Commission
- Field Visits and Public Hearings: The commission has conducted public consultations and hearings in several states, including Kerala, Gujarat, Bihar, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh. These visits aim to gather first-hand accounts from interest groups and communities. Future hearings are planned for Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu, with the recent extension allowing the continuation of this process.
- Feedback from States and UTs: The commission has requested data from various states and Union Territories on the socio-economic status of Dalit converts. This data will help determine if systemic discrimination persists post-conversion.
Government’s Stance and Legal Background
- Government Position: The central government has argued in the Supreme Court that it is justified in excluding Dalit Christians and Muslims from the SC category, citing the “foreign origins” of these religions. The government has maintained that the concept of caste-based discrimination is fundamentally linked to the social structure of Hinduism and does not apply in the same way to Islam or Christianity.
- Presentation to the Commission: The Centre has presented its case to the commission, defending the existing system but allowing for a comprehensive examination of the issue through the commission’s findings.
Significance of the Commission’s Findings
- Potential Impact: The outcome of the commission’s work could have far-reaching implications. If it concludes that Dalit converts to Christianity or Islam face comparable discrimination to their counterparts within Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism, this could pave the way for legislative or judicial action to extend SC benefits to a broader group of individuals.
- Court Involvement: The Supreme Court, which has been deliberating on this issue for nearly 20 years, has deferred taking a final stance, awaiting the commission’s comprehensive report.
Broader Context and Implications
- Social and Political Dynamics: Extending SC status to Dalit converts has significant socio-political implications. It could shift dynamics in resource allocation and reservation policies and affect the socio-economic landscape for Dalit communities in various religious contexts.
- Historical Precedent: This issue is not just a matter of policy but involves deeply rooted historical, cultural, and religious identities. The decision would reflect on India’s commitment to social justice and equality for all marginalized communities, irrespective of their religious affiliations.
Conclusion
- The extension of the commission’s deadline to October 2025 allows for more in-depth exploration of the complex interplay between religion, caste, and social discrimination in India.
- The findings will be crucial in shaping future policies related to caste and religious conversion, potentially altering the framework of affirmative action and social justice in the country.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q4. What is the primary objective of the Commission of Inquiry set up by the Centre regarding Dalit converts?
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: A) Only One B) Only Two C) Only Three D) Only Four
|
If a particular area is brought under the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution of India, which one of the following statements best reflects the consequence of it? (2022)
(a) This would prevent the transfer of land of tribal people to non-tribal people. Ans: (a)
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| Answer 4 B
Explanation · To investigate the socio-economic conditions of Dalit converts. · To examine if SC status can be granted to all Dalit converts. · To analyze the impact of foreign religions on the caste system in India. · To recommend educational reforms for Scheduled Castes. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Why India’s ‘Adopt a Heritage’ programme needs a more enlightened approach
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 1- Art and Culture, GS2- Polity and Governance
Context: ‘Adopt a Heritage’ programme
Why in news
- The ‘Adopt a Heritage’ initiative, launched in 2017, involves private entities, or ‘Monument Mitras,’ to maintain and develop India’s historic sites.
Aim
- The aim is to address challenges in funding and management while enhancing visitor facilities and preserving cultural heritage.
- Concerns have arisen about over-commercialization and the program’s potential to compromise the historical integrity of monuments.
Challenges with the Current Approach
- Resource Limitations: With over 3,700 monuments under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), maintenance is a significant challenge.
- Over-Commercialization Risks: Monument Mitras may prioritize revenue-generation, introducing modern amenities and private events that can disrupt cultural ambiance.
- Lack of Integration: Unlike European cities, Indian monuments are often isolated, lacking integration with surrounding civic life and local communities.
Global Conservation Practices
- Cities like Rome and Paris offer examples of heritage conservation that balance modern utility with historical integrity.
- Rome’s Basilica of San Clemente: Represents layered history accessible to the public, integrating heritage into civic life without structural alterations.
- Louvre Pyramid in Paris: Sensitive modern additions can enhance visitor experience while respecting historical context, offering insights for India’s conservation efforts.
Cultural Sensitivity and Polarization Risks
- Concerns exist that the initiative may inadvertently propagate religious or cultural biases, favoring certain projects over others.
- Examples include extensive support for projects like the Varanasi corridor, raising questions about equitable attention to diverse heritage sites (e.g., Ajmer Dargah).
Recommendations for a More Inclusive and Sensitive Model
- Local Community Involvement: Engaging local stakeholders can ensure respect for historical authenticity and cultural sentiments.
- Regulated Commercial Activities: Seasonal restrictions and limitations on private functions can help maintain a balance between accessibility and conservation.
- Oversight Mechanism: Stronger oversight can prevent over-commercialization, ensuring monuments are preserved for public value, not just economic gain.
Conclusion
- The ‘Adopt a Heritage’ programme has potential but requires a more nuanced approach that prioritizes conservation over profit.
- A balanced policy that considers local needs, historical context, and cultural ideals is essential.
- Drawing inspiration from cities like Rome and Paris, India can integrate heritage sites into contemporary life while respecting its diverse cultural landscape, creating vibrant spaces that connect people to history.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ | ||||||||||||||||
Q5. Which of the following are potential challenges associated with the ‘Adopt a Heritage’ program?
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: A) 1 and 2 only
|
Q. Consider the following pairs : (2014)
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
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| Answer 5 B
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct. Different organizations or companies may have varying levels of expertise and commitment when it comes to conservation. Some may prioritize historical integrity, while others might not adhere to best practices, leading to inconsistent quality in preservation efforts. · Statement 2 is correct. Involving private entities in the management of heritage sites can lead to a focus on profit generation rather than conservation. This commercialization can detract from the cultural and historical significance of the sites, turning them into mere tourist attractions. · Statement 3 is correct. Given the vast number of heritage sites across India, it can be challenging to ensure that all sites receive adequate attention and resources. Some sites may be favored over others based on their popularity or potential for tourism, leading to neglect of less prominent sites. · Statement 4 is Incorrect. While there may be concerns about regulatory oversight, the program does have some level of government oversight and guidelines to ensure that adopted sites are maintained appropriately. Therefore, claiming a “complete lack” of oversight is misleading. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
University rankings and academic metrics that raise eyebrows
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2- Polity and Governance
Context: Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings (WUR) 2025
Why in news
The Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings (WUR) 2025, released in October 2024, has sparked significant controversy and scepticism regarding the credibility of rankings for Indian institutions, particularly concerning their research quality.
Overview
- The report from the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) and the All-India Disaster Mitigation Institute (AIDMI) highlights the severe impacts of climate change on cotton farmers in Gujarat and Maharashtra, two major cotton-producing states in India.
Key Points of Controversy
- Unusual Ranking Outcomes
- Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore, historically regarded as India’s premier research institution, was ranked 50th with a score of 51.5. This low ranking is alarming given IISc’s long-standing reputation.
- In contrast, universities such as Chitkara University and Saveetha Institute topped the rankings with scores above 88, despite being relatively less recognized in the global academic community.
- Geographical Concentration
- Notably, four of the top five ranked institutions are located in a small geographical region of Chandigarh, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh. This concentration raises questions about regional biases in the rankings and whether they reflect genuine academic merit.
- Participation Withdrawal by Premier Institutions
- Many prominent institutions, including several Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), opted out of the rankings. Their withdrawal stems from concerns about the transparency and fairness of THE’s evaluation processes, highlighting a broader skepticism about the validity of such global ranking systems.
Methodology of THE Rankings
THE’s ranking methodology evaluates over 2,000 institutions from around the globe across five key areas:
- Teaching (30%)
- Research Environment (30%)
- Research Quality (30%)
- International Outlook (7.5%)
- Industry (4%)
Research Ranking Criteria
- The research ranking is determined through:
- Research Environment: Reputation, income, and productivity.
- Research Quality: Metrics include citation impact, research strength, excellence, and influence.
- The research quality metrics include:
- Research Reputation: 18%
- Citation Impact: 15%
- Research Strength, Excellence, and Influence: Approximately 5% each.
Observations on Ranking Discrepancies
- Despite IISc’s undisputed leadership in the Research Environment with a score of 50, its Research Quality score is in stark contrast to the top five universities, which recorded very low scores (ranging from 11.4 to 21.3).
- This discrepancy raises critical questions about the correlation between research environment and research quality, suggesting that high research quality cannot be achieved without a robust research environment.
Concerns about Research Metrics
Several practices have emerged that could inflate research quality scores:
- Generative AI Publications: Some journals now accept content generated by AI, which diminishes the quality of academic publications.
- Pay-to-Publish Schemes: Many Scopus-indexed journals require payment for publication, which can lead to low-quality research being published.
- Plagiarism and Ghost Authoring: Researchers may submit plagiarized work or list authors who have not contributed significantly to inflate publication counts.
- Inflated Citation Metrics: Practices such as self-citations and quid pro quo citations can artificially enhance citation metrics, misleadingly improving perceived research quality.
Implications for Stakeholders
Misrepresentation of Institutional Performance
- THE’s claim that its data is trusted by governments and universities is questionable, especially concerning Indian institutions.
- The discrepancies in rankings could mislead students and other stakeholders, affecting educational and career choices based on potentially flawed data.
Calls for Enhanced Transparency
To improve the credibility of its rankings, THE may need to:
- Re-evaluate its ranking processes.
- Establish more rigorous data integrity standards.
- Implement additional verification and validation processes to ensure transparency in its evaluations.
Conclusion
- The challenges highlighted by the THE World University Rankings 2025 underline a growing concern about the objectivity and credibility of global university rankings.
- The potential manipulation of research metrics, coupled with the low rankings of historically reputable institutions, suggests a need for a critical reassessment of how academic performance is measured.
- Enhancing the transparency and reliability of ranking systems is essential to restore faith among stakeholders, particularly students making crucial decisions about their education and future careers.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q6. The Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, released in October 2024, has raised significant concerns regarding the credibility and accuracy of rankings for Indian institutions. Which of the following statements are correct regarding the issues highlighted by the recent rankings?
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. Which of the following provisions of the Constitution does India have a bearing on Education? (2012)
1. Directive Principles of State Policy 2. Rural and Urban Local Bodies 3. Fifth Schedule 4. Sixth Schedule 5. Seventh Schedule Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3, 4 and 5 only (c) 1, 2 and 5 only (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Ans: (d) |
| Answer 6 A
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct: The IISc Bangalore, recognized for decades as India’s top research institution, has indeed been ranked 50th. · Statement 2 is correct: Many prominent institutions, including various IITs, opted out of the rankings due to transparency and fairness concerns regarding the evaluation processes. · Statement 3 is incorrect: The top five ranked institutions in the recent rankings do not have a strong reputation for their research environments, as indicated by their low scores in research quality. · Statement 4 is Incorrect: While the methodology includes teaching quality and research environment, it does not explicitly mention student satisfaction as a criterion, making the statement inaccurate as per the context provided. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |