UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 24 February 2025
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 24 February 2025 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles
InstaLinks : Insta Links help you think beyond the current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background.
Table of Contents
GS Paper 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 24 February (2025)
• Three-Language Formula
Three-Language Formula
GS Paper 3:
• Talent shortage
Talent shortage
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):
• Servicification of Manufacturing
Servicification of Manufacturing
Facts for Prelims (FFP):
• Reclassification of Major Minerals
Reclassification of Major Minerals
• F-35 Lightening II Fighter Jet
F-35 Lightening II Fighter Jet
• Ratnagiri Buddhist Heritage Site
Ratnagiri Buddhist Heritage Site
• DeepCXR AI Tool
DeepCXR AI Tool
• Shivaji’s Forts (Maratha Military Landscape of India)
Shivaji’s Forts (Maratha Military Landscape of India)
• Perovskite-Based LEDs (PeLEDs)
Perovskite-Based LEDs (PeLEDs)
• Gulf of Tonkin
Gulf of Tonkin
Mapping:
• Honduras
Honduras
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 24 February 2025
#### GS Paper 2 :
Three-Language Formula
Syllabus: Governance
Source: IE
Context: The Centre has withheld ₹2,152 crore in funds to Tamil Nadu under the Samagra Shiksha scheme due to the State’s refusal to implement the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s three-language formula.
• Tamil Nadu, which follows a two-language policy, views this as an imposition of Hindi and a threat to its linguistic identity.
What is the Three-Language Formula?
• Definition: A language policy introduced in the National Education Policy (NEP) of 1968 to standardize language education across India.
• Objective: To promote multilingualism, national unity, and administrative efficiency.
• Structure: Hindi-speaking States: Hindi, English, and a modern Indian language (preferably a south Indian language). Non-Hindi-speaking States: Regional language, Hindi, and English.
• Hindi-speaking States: Hindi, English, and a modern Indian language (preferably a south Indian language).
• Non-Hindi-speaking States: Regional language, Hindi, and English.
Origin and History of the Three-Language Formula:
• 1968: Introduced in the first NEP under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
• 1986: Reiterated in the NPE 1986 without significant changes.
• 2020: Retained in NEP 2020 with greater flexibility, allowing States to choose languages.
• Tamil Nadu’s Resistance: Adopted a two-language policy (Tamil and English) in 1968, rejecting Hindi imposition.
What Does NEP 2020 Say About the Three-Language Policy?
• Flexibility: States and students can choose the three languages, with at least two being native to India.
• No Imposition: No specific language is mandated for any State.
• Emphasis on Mother Tongue: Encourages teaching in the home language/mother tongue until Grade 5, preferably till Grade 8.
• Sanskrit: Promoted as an optional language within the three-language formula.
Significance of the Three-Language Policy:
• Multilingualism: Encourages learning multiple languages for better communication and cultural understanding.
• National Integration: Bridges linguistic divides and fosters unity.
• Global Competence: Retains English as a global link language while promoting Indian languages.
• Cognitive Benefits: Research shows learning in the mother tongue enhances cognitive development.
Issues Surrounding the Three-Language Policy:
• Perceived Hindi Imposition: Non-Hindi-speaking States, especially Tamil Nadu, view it as a covert attempt to impose Hindi.
• Resource Constraints: Lack of teachers and materials for additional languages.
• Cultural Resistance: Seen as a threat to regional languages and identities.
• Political Tensions: Opposition from regional parties fearing erosion of linguistic autonomy.
• Implementation Challenges: Varied adoption across States, with some prioritizing Sanskrit over modern Indian languages.
Way Forward:
• Constructive Dialogue: Centre and States must engage in discussions to address concerns and find common ground.
• Flexible Implementation: Allow States to choose languages based on local preferences and needs.
• Resource Allocation: Provide adequate funding and infrastructure for language teachers and materials.
• Focus on Multilingualism: Promote learning of Indian languages without undermining regional identities.
• Decentralized Approach: Respect State autonomy in education while aligning with national goals.
Conclusion:
A balanced approach, respecting regional identities and ensuring flexibility, is crucial for its successful implementation. Constructive dialogue and resource allocation can help bridge the divide and achieve the policy’s objectives without compromising federal principles.
• Do you agree that regionalism in India appears to be a consequence of rising cultural assertiveness? Argue. (UPSC-2020)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 24 February 2025 GS Paper 3
Talent shortage
Syllabus: Economics
Source: TH
Context: A recent FICCI-KPMG study, ‘Global Mobility of Indian Workforce’, has estimated that by 2030, the demand for skilled workers will exceed supply, leading to a talent shortage of over 85.2 million people.
Data Stats from the Report:
• By 2030, the global talent shortage is estimated to be 85.2 million workers.
• This shortage could lead to $8.45 trillion in unrealized annual revenue, equivalent to the combined GDPs of Germany and Japan.
• Indian diaspora is the second-largest and fastest-growing in Australia.
• India’s GDP is projected to reach between 6.5 trillion and 9 trillion by 2030, depending on its ability to tap into global opportunities.
Reasons Behind Talent Shortage:
• Demographic Shifts: Aging populations in Europe, GCC, and Australia are increasing demand for healthcare and service-sector workers.
• Skill Mismatch: Existing workforce skills do not align with emerging sectors like AI, IoT, and sustainability.
• Regulatory Barriers: Complex visa processes and stringent work permit regulations hinder skilled migration.
• Emerging Technologies: Rapid advancements in automation, big data, and blockchain are creating demand for new skill sets.
• Exploitative Practices: Recruitment malpractices and human trafficking deter skilled workers from migrating.
Opportunity for India Talent Migration:
• Global Demand: GCC, Europe, and Australia are key regions with high demand for skilled workers, particularly in healthcare, services, and emerging technologies.
E.g. The global AI market is expected to hit $266 billion by 2027, expanding at a 33.2% CAGR.
• Skilled Workforce: India’s large, young, and English-speaking population is a significant advantage.
E.g. The Skill India Mission has trained over 40 million workers since 2015.
• Bilateral Agreements: FTAs and skill cooperation agreements with GCC nations and others enhance workforce mobility.
• Digital Platforms: Online recruitment systems can ensure legal protections and reduce fraud.
• Economic Growth: Tapping into the $8.45 trillion opportunity can drive India toward its $9 trillion GDP target by 2030.
Challenges for India Talent Migration:
• Regulatory Hurdles: Complex immigration policies and non-recognition of Indian degrees in some countries.
E.g. India ranks 92nd in the Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2023, highlighting challenges in attracting and enabling global talent.
• Skill Gaps: Lack of alignment between Indian training programs and global market needs.
E.g. By 2027, 44% of core skills will change, leading to an 85.2 million skilled worker shortfall by 2030 (WEF Future of Jobs Report 2023).
• Illegal Migration: Exploitation of workers and India’s reputation being affected by illegal migration.
• Cultural Barriers: Language proficiency and cultural adaptation issues hinder workforce integration.
• Political Climate: Shifting immigration policies in Europe and other regions may impact workforce mobility.
Way Ahead:
• Sector-Specific Training: Align workforce training with the needs of target geographies and emerging sectors like AI, IoT, and sustainability.
• Regulate Recruitment: Implement stricter oversight on recruitment agencies to prevent exploitation and trafficking.
• Recognize Qualifications: Focus on international collaborations for mutual recognition of academic and professional qualifications.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Incentivize private sector involvement in training programs and global employment facilitation.
• Circular Migration: Promote temporary work visas and rotational workforce models to address labor shortages without causing demographic imbalances.
Conclusion:
By leveraging its skilled workforce, fostering international cooperation, and implementing targeted policies, India can position itself as a global leader in workforce mobility. Achieving this will not only boost economic growth but also realize the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2030.
• Examine the role of ‘Gig Economy’ in the process of empowerment of women in India. (UPSC-2021)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 24 February 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
Servicification of Manufacturing
Context: Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) President stated that while wages are rising, the increasing ‘servicification’ of manufacturing makes wage trend comparisons difficult.
What is Servicification of Manufacturing?
• It refers to the increasing reliance on specialized services within the manufacturing sector.
• Instead of performing non-core tasks in-house, manufacturers outsource them to service providers.
How Does It Happen?
• Outsourcing Utility Management: Companies hire specialized firms to manage power, water, and logistics instead of handling them internally.
• OEM Involvement: Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) now maintain and manage machinery instead of manufacturers doing it themselves.
• Contracting Workforce Services: Non-core roles like security, transportation, and maintenance are handled by third-party agencies.
Impacts of Servicification:
• Efficiency Boost: Businesses focus on core manufacturing while experts handle support services.
• Wage Structure Shift: Wage growth trends are distorted, as more workers shift from formal employment to contractual roles.
• Job Market Transformation: Increases demand for high-skilled service professionals over traditional factory jobs.
• Blurring Industry Boundaries: Manufacturing now integrates technology, AI, and data-driven services, reshaping employment dynamics.
Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus:
• GS Paper 3 (Economy & Industry)
• Industrial Growth: Understanding shifts in manufacturing models. Employment & Labor Trends: Impact on wages, job creation, and contract labor. Economic Policies: Government’s role in regulating outsourcing and industrial workforce dynamics.
• Industrial Growth: Understanding shifts in manufacturing models.
• Employment & Labor Trends: Impact on wages, job creation, and contract labor.
• Economic Policies: Government’s role in regulating outsourcing and industrial workforce dynamics.
• GS Paper 2 (Governance & Policy)
• Labor Laws & Reforms: Implications of contract-based employment on workers’ rights. Public Policy & Corporate Governance: Balancing profitability and worker welfare.
• Labor Laws & Reforms: Implications of contract-based employment on workers’ rights.
• Public Policy & Corporate Governance: Balancing profitability and worker welfare.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 24 February 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Reclassification of Major Minerals
Source: EET
Context: The Ministry of Mines, through a gazette notification, reclassified Barytes, Feldspar, Mica, and Quartz as major minerals from their previous minor mineral status.
About Major Mineral Reclassification:
What are Major Minerals?
• Major minerals are those regulated by the Central Government under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act, 1957).
• They include minerals with high economic and strategic significance, such as iron ore, coal, bauxite, gold, and now, Barytes, Feldspar, Mica, and Quartz.
Rules Governing Major Minerals:
• Regulated by: The Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM).
• Lease Period: Up to 50 years, as per Section 8A of the MMDR Act, 1957.
• Revenue Collection: Earnings from these minerals accrue to state governments.
• Auction Process: Major minerals are allocated through a competitive bidding process.
Minerals Reclassified as Major Minerals:
• Barytes: Used in oil drilling, electronics, radiation shielding, and medical applications.
• Feldspar: Essential for ceramics, glass, and paints.
• Mica: Key for electrical insulation, cosmetics, and the aerospace industry.
• Quartz: Critical for semiconductors, optics, and industrial applications.
Reasons Behind Reclassification:
• Enhancing Critical Mineral Exploration: Quartz, Feldspar, and Mica contain Beryl, Lithium, Niobium, and Tantalum, vital for energy, aerospace, and healthcare.
• Preventing Resource Misuse: Previously, minor mineral leases restricted the extraction of associated critical minerals.
• Boosting Scientific Mining: Barytes mining often results in the simultaneous extraction of Antimony, Cobalt, and Silver, requiring advanced mining techniques.
• Reducing Import Dependence: Strengthening domestic mineral supply for industries and national security.
Consequences of Classifying These as Major Minerals:
• Stronger Regulatory Oversight: Mining will now be under IBM supervision, ensuring scientific and sustainable practices.
• Increased Exploration and Investment: Encourages private investment in mineral extraction.
• Longer Lease Periods: Extended lease duration of 50 years, improving stability in mining operations.
• Higher Revenue for States: States will continue receiving mining royalties while ensuring better resource utilization.
F-35 Lightening II Fighter Jet
Source: TH
Context: At Aero India 2025, the F-35 Lightening II fighter jet gained attention after U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at a potential offer for India.
About F-35 Lightening II Fighter Jet:
• What is the F-35?
• The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) is a single-seat, single-engine stealth fighter designed for multi-role combat missions. It is classified as a Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) with advanced stealth, electronic warfare, and sensor fusion capabilities.
• The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) is a single-seat, single-engine stealth fighter designed for multi-role combat missions.
• It is classified as a Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) with advanced stealth, electronic warfare, and sensor fusion capabilities.
• Developed by:
• Manufactured by Lockheed Martin under a U.S.-led multinational program.
• Manufactured by Lockheed Martin under a U.S.-led multinational program.
• Variants:
• F-35A – Conventional takeoff and landing (U.S. Air Force). F-35B – Short takeoff/vertical landing (U.S. Marine Corps). F-35C – Carrier-based operations (U.S. Navy & Marine Corps).
• F-35A – Conventional takeoff and landing (U.S. Air Force).
• F-35B – Short takeoff/vertical landing (U.S. Marine Corps).
• F-35C – Carrier-based operations (U.S. Navy & Marine Corps).
• Key Features & Specialties: Stealth Technology: Designed with radar-evading features, ensuring low observability in combat. Advanced Avionics: Uses sensor fusion and AI-driven systems for superior battlefield awareness. Supersonic Speed: Achieves Mach 1.6 (1,960 km/h) while maintaining stealth capabilities. Network-Centric Warfare: Shares real-time tactical data with ground, naval, and aerial forces. Combat Proven: Operated by multiple NATO allies, expected to remain in service until 2080s. High Cost: Costs over $100 million per unit, with lifetime operational costs exceeding $2 trillion.
• Stealth Technology: Designed with radar-evading features, ensuring low observability in combat.
• Advanced Avionics: Uses sensor fusion and AI-driven systems for superior battlefield awareness.
• Supersonic Speed: Achieves Mach 1.6 (1,960 km/h) while maintaining stealth capabilities.
• Network-Centric Warfare: Shares real-time tactical data with ground, naval, and aerial forces.
• Combat Proven: Operated by multiple NATO allies, expected to remain in service until 2080s.
• High Cost: Costs over $100 million per unit, with lifetime operational costs exceeding $2 trillion.
Ratnagiri Buddhist Heritage Site
Source: TH
Context: Archaeologists unearthed a massive 1.4-meter-tall Buddha head and over 1,500-year-old tablets and stupas at Ratnagiri, Odisha, in December.
• The excavation confirms Ratnagiri’s historical significance as a major Vajrayana (Tantric Buddhism) centre, attracting global scholars.
About Ratnagiri Buddhist Heritage Site:
• Location:
• Situated in Jajpur district, Odisha, Ratnagiri is part of the Diamond Triangle of Buddhist heritage, along with Lalitgiri and Udayagiri. The site is surrounded by the Brahmani, Kimiria, and Birupa rivers, providing a secluded and strategic location for Buddhist scholars.
• Situated in Jajpur district, Odisha, Ratnagiri is part of the Diamond Triangle of Buddhist heritage, along with Lalitgiri and Udayagiri.
• The site is surrounded by the Brahmani, Kimiria, and Birupa rivers, providing a secluded and strategic location for Buddhist scholars.
• Time period associated:
• The earliest Buddhist settlement dates back to the 5th century AD and flourished until the 13th century. Vajrayana Buddhist activities continued at Ratnagiri till the 16th century.
• The earliest Buddhist settlement dates back to the 5th century AD and flourished until the 13th century.
• Vajrayana Buddhist activities continued at Ratnagiri till the 16th century.
• Excavation Timeline & Key Findings:
• First Discovery (1906): Buddhist relics reported by Manmohan Chakravarti. Systematic Excavation (1958-1961): Led by Debala Mitra, the first woman Director General of ASI. Recent Excavation (December 2024 – March 2025): Approved by ASI Director General, aiming to uncover partially visible structures and a possible shrine complex.
• First Discovery (1906): Buddhist relics reported by Manmohan Chakravarti.
• Systematic Excavation (1958-1961): Led by Debala Mitra, the first woman Director General of ASI.
• Recent Excavation (December 2024 – March 2025): Approved by ASI Director General, aiming to uncover partially visible structures and a possible shrine complex.
• Relics Excavated: Buddha Head (1.4 meters tall): Largest ever found in Odisha, possibly India. Votive Stupas: Arranged in sequence, indicating spiritual offerings and pilgrimage site. Monasteries & Shrine Complex: Evidence of two monasteries and a central stupa used for veneration. Stone Tablets & Inscriptions: Sanskrit text in Kutila script (Siddhamatrika), confirming Buddhist influence. Buddhist Deities & Symbols: Includes sculptures of Amoghasiddhi, Ratnasambhava, Akshobhya, Amitabha, Tara, and Marici. Brick and Stone Structures: Suggest advanced masonry techniques that have withstood time.
• Buddha Head (1.4 meters tall): Largest ever found in Odisha, possibly India.
• Votive Stupas: Arranged in sequence, indicating spiritual offerings and pilgrimage site.
• Monasteries & Shrine Complex: Evidence of two monasteries and a central stupa used for veneration.
• Stone Tablets & Inscriptions: Sanskrit text in Kutila script (Siddhamatrika), confirming Buddhist influence.
• Buddhist Deities & Symbols: Includes sculptures of Amoghasiddhi, Ratnasambhava, Akshobhya, Amitabha, Tara, and Marici.
• Brick and Stone Structures: Suggest advanced masonry techniques that have withstood time.
DeepCXR AI Tool
Source: TH
Context: The Central TB Division (CTD) recommended the DeepCXR AI tool for TB screening despite lacking published validation studies or an official Health Technology Assessment of India (HTA) assessment.
About DeepCXR AI Tool:
What is DeepCXR?
• DeepCXR is an AI-based chest X-ray interpretation tool designed to detect TB cases under the National TB Elimination Program (NTEP).
• Developed by the Institute for Plasma Research, Gandhinagar, it has been approved for use by ICMR.
How Does DeepCXR Work?
• Machine Learning Model: Trained on 54,000 X-ray images and validated using 14,000 images from 18+ sites.
• Pattern Recognition: Identifies TB-related lung abnormalities based on AI-driven image analysis.
• Automated Diagnosis: Provides instant results, reducing dependence on radiologists.
• Applications of DeepCXR: TB Screening: Supports early detection of presumptive and subclinical TB. Rural Healthcare: Works in resource-limited settings with minimal infrastructure. Faster Diagnosis: AI-assisted interpretation reduces screening time to less than a minute.
• TB Screening: Supports early detection of presumptive and subclinical TB.
• Rural Healthcare: Works in resource-limited settings with minimal infrastructure.
• Faster Diagnosis: AI-assisted interpretation reduces screening time to less than a minute.
• Key Features & Limitations: Claimed Accuracy: 96% on test datasets, but lacks independent validation in real-world settings. No Published Research: Unlike qXR and Genki, there are no peer-reviewed studies confirming sensitivity and specificity. Programmatic Inclusion Issues: Unlike HTA-approved AI tools, CTD has not officially communicated its use to all States.
• Claimed Accuracy: 96% on test datasets, but lacks independent validation in real-world settings.
• No Published Research: Unlike qXR and Genki, there are no peer-reviewed studies confirming sensitivity and specificity.
• Programmatic Inclusion Issues: Unlike HTA-approved AI tools, CTD has not officially communicated its use to all States.
NOTE: Remember the Names (DeepCXR AI tool, qXR AI tool, Genki AI tool) and what they are.
Shivaji’s Forts (Maratha Military Landscape of India)
Source: IT
Context: A high-level delegation led by Maharashtra Cultural Affairs is in Paris to seek UNESCO World Heritage status for 12 forts under ‘Maratha Military Landscape of India’.
About Shivaji’s Forts (Maratha Military Landscape of India):
• What is it?
• The Maratha Military Landscape refers to fortifications and strategic defense systems built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and later Maratha rulers between the 17th and 19th centuries. These forts showcase advanced military architecture, strategic positioning, and adaptation to diverse terrains across India.
• The Maratha Military Landscape refers to fortifications and strategic defense systems built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and later Maratha rulers between the 17th and 19th centuries.
• These forts showcase advanced military architecture, strategic positioning, and adaptation to diverse terrains across India.
• Time Period:
• Began in the 1670s under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Continued through subsequent Maratha rulers and Peshwa rule till 1818 CE.
• Began in the 1670s under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
• Continued through subsequent Maratha rulers and Peshwa rule till 1818 CE.
• 12 Forts Nominated for UNESCO Status: Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Panhala, Shivneri, Lohagad, Salher, Sindhudurg, Suvarnadurg, Vijaydurg, Khanderi, and Gingee (Tamil Nadu).
• Unique Features of These Forts: Diverse Typology:
• Diverse Typology:
• Hill Forts: Shivneri, Lohagad, Raigad, Rajgad, Salher, Gingee. Hill-Forest Fort: Pratapgad. Hill-Plateau Fort: Panhala. Coastal Fort: Vijaydurg. Island Forts: Khanderi, Suvarnadurg, Sindhudurg.
• Hill Forts: Shivneri, Lohagad, Raigad, Rajgad, Salher, Gingee. Hill-Forest Fort: Pratapgad. Hill-Plateau Fort: Panhala. Coastal Fort: Vijaydurg. Island Forts: Khanderi, Suvarnadurg, Sindhudurg.
• Hill Forts: Shivneri, Lohagad, Raigad, Rajgad, Salher, Gingee.
• Hill-Forest Fort: Pratapgad.
• Hill-Plateau Fort: Panhala.
• Coastal Fort: Vijaydurg.
• Island Forts: Khanderi, Suvarnadurg, Sindhudurg.
• Integration with Terrain: Built across the Sahyadri Mountains, Konkan Coast, Deccan Plateau, and Eastern Ghats.
• Military Innovations: Included multi-tiered defenses, secret escape routes, and rainwater harvesting systems.
• Symbol of Maratha Power: Represented Shivaji’s guerrilla warfare tactics and administrative strength.
• UNESCO Sites in Maharashtra
• Ajanta Caves (1983) – Cultural
• Ellora Caves (1983) – Cultural
• Elephanta Caves (1987) – Cultural
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (2004) – Cultural
• Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai (2018) – Cultural
• Western Ghats (2012) – Natural
• The Maratha Military Landscape nomination, which was included in UNESCO’s Tentative List in 2021, is the sixth cultural heritage site proposed from Maharashtra.
Perovskite-Based LEDs (PeLEDs)
Source: SM
Context: Indian scientists at CeNS, Bengaluru, developed an innovative method to enhance the stability of perovskite nanocrystals, addressing colour degradation and heat sensitivity issues.
• The breakthrough in Perovskite-based LEDs (PeLEDs) improves efficiency and durability, making them commercially viable for next-generation lighting and displays.
About Perovskite-Based LEDs (PeLEDs):
• What are PeLEDs?
• Perovskite-based LEDs (PeLEDs) are light-emitting diodes that use perovskite nanocrystals as the light-emitting material. These combine the advantages of OLEDs (Organic LEDs) and QLEDs (Quantum Dot LEDs) for high brightness and energy efficiency.
• Perovskite-based LEDs (PeLEDs) are light-emitting diodes that use perovskite nanocrystals as the light-emitting material.
• These combine the advantages of OLEDs (Organic LEDs) and QLEDs (Quantum Dot LEDs) for high brightness and energy efficiency.
• Composition: Perovskite is a class of compounds which have the same type of crystal structure as CaTiO3 – Calcium Titanate.
• Key Features of Perovskite-Based LEDs: High Luminescence: Emits bright, tunable light with superior color purity. Energy Efficient: Low power consumption compared to traditional LEDs. Easy Fabrication: Can be solution-processed, reducing manufacturing costs. Color Tunability: Can be easily adjusted across visible and infrared spectrums. Low-Cost Alternative: Cheaper than conventional direct bandgap semiconductors used in LEDs.
• High Luminescence: Emits bright, tunable light with superior color purity.
• Energy Efficient: Low power consumption compared to traditional LEDs.
• Easy Fabrication: Can be solution-processed, reducing manufacturing costs.
• Color Tunability: Can be easily adjusted across visible and infrared spectrums.
• Low-Cost Alternative: Cheaper than conventional direct bandgap semiconductors used in LEDs.
• How PeLEDs Will Improve LED Technology?
• High Efficiency: Enhances light output with minimal power consumption. Flexible Displays: Can be deposited on flexible substrates, enabling bendable screens. Low-Temperature Manufacturing: Unlike traditional LEDs, PeLEDs do not require high-vacuum processing. Wider Commercial Applications: Useful in TVs, smartphones, automotive lighting, and optical communication.
• High Efficiency: Enhances light output with minimal power consumption.
• Flexible Displays: Can be deposited on flexible substrates, enabling bendable screens.
• Low-Temperature Manufacturing: Unlike traditional LEDs, PeLEDs do not require high-vacuum processing.
• Wider Commercial Applications: Useful in TVs, smartphones, automotive lighting, and optical communication.
• Limitations of Perovskite-Based LEDs: Stability Issues: Prone to degradation from moisture, heat, and oxygen, reducing lifespan. Lead Toxicity: Most PeLEDs contain lead (Pb), raising environmental and health concerns. Low Efficiency at Large Scale: Difficult to maintain high efficiency in large-area displays. Exciton Binding Weakness: Weak electron-hole interaction causes low photoluminescence efficiency (PLQE).
• Stability Issues: Prone to degradation from moisture, heat, and oxygen, reducing lifespan.
• Lead Toxicity: Most PeLEDs contain lead (Pb), raising environmental and health concerns.
• Low Efficiency at Large Scale: Difficult to maintain high efficiency in large-area displays.
• Exciton Binding Weakness: Weak electron-hole interaction causes low photoluminescence efficiency (PLQE).
Gulf of Tonkin
Source: DD News
Context: Vietnam’s foreign ministry released a map defining its baseline claim in the Gulf of Tonkin, reinforcing its sovereign rights and maritime jurisdiction.
• The baseline, marked from Quang Ninh to Quang Tri provinces, aligns with UNCLOS 1982 and the Vietnam-China Gulf of Tonkin Delimitation Agreement (2000).
About Gulf of Tonkin:
• Location: Situated in the northwestern South China Sea.
• Borders: Vietnam (West & Northwest) and China (North & East).
• Rivers Inflow:
• Red River (Vietnam) – The largest river flowing into the gulf. Other Rivers: Ka Long, Bach Dang, and other tributaries from Vietnam and China.
• Red River (Vietnam) – The largest river flowing into the gulf.
• Other Rivers: Ka Long, Bach Dang, and other tributaries from Vietnam and China.
• Historical Significance:
• Vietnam War (1964): The Gulf of Tonkin Incident led to U.S. military intervention in Vietnam.
• Vietnam War (1964): The Gulf of Tonkin Incident led to U.S. military intervention in Vietnam.
• Maritime Agreements: Vietnam-China Agreement (2000): Defined boundaries in Gulf of Tonkin’s EEZ. UNCLOS 1982 Compliance: Both nations have established baselines and EEZs.
• Vietnam-China Agreement (2000): Defined boundaries in Gulf of Tonkin’s EEZ.
• UNCLOS 1982 Compliance: Both nations have established baselines and EEZs.
• Territorial Dispute:
• Vietnam vs. China: China published its baseline in March 2023, leading to diplomatic tensions. Vietnam insists on international law compliance and maritime rights enforcement.
• Vietnam vs. China: China published its baseline in March 2023, leading to diplomatic tensions. Vietnam insists on international law compliance and maritime rights enforcement.
• China published its baseline in March 2023, leading to diplomatic tensions.
• Vietnam insists on international law compliance and maritime rights enforcement.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS –24 February 2025 Mapping:
Honduras
Source: News on Air
Context: India dispatched 26 tons of humanitarian aid to Honduras following the devastation caused by Tropical Storm SARA.
About Honduras:
• Location: Situated in Central America.
• Capital:
• Neighbours: Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Caribbean Sea & Pacific Ocean.
• Geographical Features:
• Mountains: Over 75% of Honduras is mountainous, limiting arable land. Major Valleys: Sula Valley (Northwest): Highly populated and fertile. La Mosquitia (Northeast): Home to Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve (UNESCO site). Rivers: The Coco River forms the border with Nicaragua.
• Mountains: Over 75% of Honduras is mountainous, limiting arable land.
• Major Valleys: Sula Valley (Northwest): Highly populated and fertile. La Mosquitia (Northeast): Home to Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve (UNESCO site).
• Sula Valley (Northwest): Highly populated and fertile.
• La Mosquitia (Northeast): Home to Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve (UNESCO site).
• Rivers: The Coco River forms the border with Nicaragua.
• Natural Resources & Agriculture:
• Key Exports: Coffee, tropical fruits, sugarcane, textiles, and minerals.
About Tropical Storm SARA:
• Origin:
• Tropical Storm SARA originated in the Atlantic Ocean, forming off the coast of Honduras.
• Tropical Storm SARA originated in the Atlantic Ocean, forming off the coast of Honduras.
• Landfall:
• The storm made landfall near the Nicaraguan-Honduran border, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. It triggered catastrophic flooding and landslides across Central America.
• The storm made landfall near the Nicaraguan-Honduran border, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds.
• It triggered catastrophic flooding and landslides across Central America.
Daily Current Affairs + PIB Summary 24 Feb 2025
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