UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 30 September 2024
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 30 September 2024 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 – 30 September 2024)
• Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Material
Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Material
GS Paper 3:
• Manual Scavenging Survey
Manual Scavenging Survey
• PLFS Report, 2023-24
PLFS Report, 2023-24
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
• Internet shutdown in Bhadrak
Internet shutdown in Bhadrak
• SBM Urban 2.0
SBM Urban 2.0
• J&K Militancy
J&K Militancy
Facts for Prelims (FFP)
• Pillbox
Pillbox
• Operation Amrith Neutrino Fog
Operation Amrith Neutrino Fog
• Neutrino Fog
Neutrino Fog
• Nipah Virus
Nipah Virus
• Mehrauli Archaeological Park
Mehrauli Archaeological Park
• Pusa-2090
Pusa-2090
Mapping:
• Yemen Attack
Yemen Attack
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 30 September 2024
#### GS Paper 2:
Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Material
Syllabus: Vulnerable section – Children
Source: TH
Context: The article explore Supreme Court recently delivered landmark judgment clarifying the penal consequences for the possession, storage, and consumption of Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Material (CSEAM), overturning a controversial Madras High Court ruling.
Judgment overview:
• The Supreme Court clarified that storing, watching, or possessing Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Material (CSEAM) is a crime under the POCSO Act, overturning a prior Madras High Court decision that had quashed charges against a man for merely possessing such material.
• The Court emphasized that “child pornography” is a misnomer and coined the term “Child Sexual Exploitative and Abuse Material” (CSEAM) to reflect the seriousness of the crime.
• It held that possession, storage, and even viewing of CSEAM falls under criminal liability, whether for personal use or commercial purposes.
• The Court explained that “constructive possession,” where individuals have control over CSEAM without physically possessing it, is punishable under the law.
Constitutional Provisions Related to Child Protection in India:
- 1.Article 15(3): Provides the State with the authority to make special provisions for the protection and welfare of children.
- 1.Article 21: Right to life and personal liberty, which includes the protection of children from exploitation and abuse.
- 1.Article 39(e) and (f): Mandates the State to ensure that children are not abused and are provided with opportunities and facilities to develop in a healthy manner, protecting their dignity and freedom.
- 1.Article 47: Focuses on improving public health, which includes preventing child exploitation and ensuring their welfare.
Key Legal Provisions Under the POCSO Act, 2012:
- 1.Section 13: Defines child pornography (now CSEAM) and punishes its production, distribution, and possession.
- 1.Section 14: Imposes penalties for using a child for pornographic purposes, with increasing severity for repeated offenses.
- 1.Section 15: Penalizes the storage of child sexual abuse material for commercial purposes, ensuring strict consequences for possession or storage.
Section 19: Mandates the reporting of offenses under the POCSO Act, making it obligatory for citizens, including tech companies, to report any suspected CSEAM-related activities.
Significance of the judgment:
• Broadened interpretation of CSEAM Laws: Criminalizes mere possession, closing legal loopholes previously exploited in court rulings.
• Strengthens child protection laws: Reinforces the POCSO Act as a tool to combat online child exploitation, ensuring stricter penalties.
• Victim-centric approach: Emphasizes victim protection, aiming for quicker content takedowns and advocating for the psychological well-being of child victims.
• Tech companies’ role: The ruling calls for tech platforms to report CSEAM cases, enhancing collaboration between law enforcement and online service providers.
Limitations of the judgment:
• Neglects adolescent behavior: The judgment does not distinguish between consensual adolescent exchanges and exploitative content, risking criminalization of teenage behavior.
• Overburdening law enforcement: Calls for tech platforms to report cases without assessing whether local police are equipped to handle increased caseloads.
• Ignores content takedown prioritization: The judgment fails to focus on the timely removal of harmful content, which is often the immediate need of victims.
• Fails to address root issues: Despite its tough stance, the judgment overlooks nuanced challenges in the rehabilitation and education of offenders, especially minors.
Key recommendations:
• Terminology change: The Court recommended replacing “child pornography” with “Child Sexual Exploitative and Abuse Material” (CSEAM) in all judicial orders and legislations.
• Sex education: The Court stressed the importance of positive, age-appropriate sex education to prevent harmful sexual behavior and foster an understanding of consent, helping to deter the consumption and distribution of CSEAM.
• Obligation of tech platforms: Social media intermediaries must not only remove CSEAM but also report such content to the local authorities under the POCSO Act. Compliance with the IT Act alone does not absolve their liability.
• Public awareness: The Court suggested raising awareness about CSEAM through public campaigns to destigmatize reporting and increase community vigilance.
• Support services: It emphasized the need for psychological counseling and rehabilitation services for both victims and offenders, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for those involved in CSEAM.
Conclusion:
This judgment aims to strengthen the legal framework against CSEAM, ensuring a victim-centric approach while addressing the need for preventive measures through education and public awareness.
Insta Links:
Which of the following are envisaged by the Right against Exploitation in the Constitution of India? (UPSC-2017)
- 1.Prohibition of traffic in human beings and forced labour
- 1.Abolition of untouchability
- 1.Protection of the interests of minorities
- 1.Prohibition of employment of children in factories and mines
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
a) 1, 2 and 4 only
b) 2, 3 and 4 only
c) 1 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: c)
Examine the main provisions of the National Child Policy and throw light on the status of its implementation. (UPSC-2016)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 30 September 2024 GS Paper 3:
Manual Scavenging Survey
Syllabus: Social Justice
Source: TH
Context: The Government of India, through its NAMASTE programme, is conducting the first-ever comprehensive survey to profile workers involved in the hazardous cleaning of sewers and septic tanks.
Summary of survey:
• Demographics of Sewer and Septic Tank Workers (SSWs): 91.9% of the 38,000 SSWs profiled across 29 States and Union Territories belong to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), or Other Backward Classes (OBC). Breakdown: 68.9% SC, 14.7% OBC, 8.3% ST, and 8% from the general category.
• 91.9% of the 38,000 SSWs profiled across 29 States and Union Territories belong to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), or Other Backward Classes (OBC).
• Breakdown: 68.9% SC, 14.7% OBC, 8.3% ST, and 8% from the general category.
• Incidence of Deaths: Between 2019 and 2023, 377 deaths occurred due to hazardous cleaning of sewers and septic tanks.
• Between 2019 and 2023, 377 deaths occurred due to hazardous cleaning of sewers and septic tanks.
• NAMASTE Programme: Launch Year: 2023-24 Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment Aim: To mechanise the cleaning of sewers and septic tanks. To eliminate deaths due to hazardous cleaning. To empower workers involved in this sector by transforming them into “sanipreneurs” (sanitation entrepreneurs). To ensure the safety and dignity of sewer and septic tank workers through proper training and equipment.
• Launch Year: 2023-24
• Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
• Aim: To mechanise the cleaning of sewers and septic tanks. To eliminate deaths due to hazardous cleaning. To empower workers involved in this sector by transforming them into “sanipreneurs” (sanitation entrepreneurs). To ensure the safety and dignity of sewer and septic tank workers through proper training and equipment.
• To mechanise the cleaning of sewers and septic tanks.
• To eliminate deaths due to hazardous cleaning.
• To empower workers involved in this sector by transforming them into “sanipreneurs” (sanitation entrepreneurs).
• To ensure the safety and dignity of sewer and septic tank workers through proper training and equipment.
• Targets: Profile all Sewer and Septic Tank Workers (SSWs) across India. Provide safety training, protective gear, and mechanised equipment to eliminate manual hazardous cleaning. Offer financial support and capital subsidies to turn SSWs into self-employed “sanipreneurs.” Create a centralised database of SSWs for policy implementation and tracking.
• Targets: Profile all Sewer and Septic Tank Workers (SSWs) across India. Provide safety training, protective gear, and mechanised equipment to eliminate manual hazardous cleaning. Offer financial support and capital subsidies to turn SSWs into self-employed “sanipreneurs.” Create a centralised database of SSWs for policy implementation and tracking.
• Profile all Sewer and Septic Tank Workers (SSWs) across India.
• Provide safety training, protective gear, and mechanised equipment to eliminate manual hazardous cleaning.
• Offer financial support and capital subsidies to turn SSWs into self-employed “sanipreneurs.”
• Create a centralised database of SSWs for policy implementation and tracking.
• Progress:
• Around 38,000 SSWs have been profiled so far, with 12 States/UTs completing the process. As of 2023-24, 31,999 SSWs have been validated. 191 beneficiaries received ₹2.26 crore in capital subsidies for self-employment projects. 413 workers and dependents received ₹10.6 crore in subsidies for sanitation-related projects.
• Around 38,000 SSWs have been profiled so far, with 12 States/UTs completing the process.
• As of 2023-24, 31,999 SSWs have been validated.
• 191 beneficiaries received ₹2.26 crore in capital subsidies for self-employment projects.
• 413 workers and dependents received ₹10.6 crore in subsidies for sanitation-related projects.
• Challenges and Gaps: Several States, including Chhattisgarh, Meghalaya, and West Bengal, have yet to begin profiling SSWs. Tamil Nadu and Odisha are running their own programmes, not reporting data to the Centre.
• Several States, including Chhattisgarh, Meghalaya, and West Bengal, have yet to begin profiling SSWs.
• Tamil Nadu and Odisha are running their own programmes, not reporting data to the Centre.
• Social Composition of Manual Scavengers (2018 Data): Of the 58,098 manual scavengers identified until 2018, 97.2% belonged to SC communities. All identified manual scavengers received ₹40,000 as a one-time cash transfer, with 18,880 opting for skills training.
• Of the 58,098 manual scavengers identified until 2018, 97.2% belonged to SC communities.
• All identified manual scavengers received ₹40,000 as a one-time cash transfer, with 18,880 opting for skills training.
Best Practices:
Eco-Sanitation Solutions: South Africa employs “dry toilets” and ecological sanitation systems (EcoSan) in areas with poor sewage infrastructure. These systems do not require manual cleaning, thus reducing the need for manual scavengers.
This survey marks a significant step towards ending the hazardous practice of sewer cleaning and ensuring better opportunities and safety for sanitation workers across India.
Insta Links:
• Manual Scavenging
‘Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan’ is a national campaign to (UPSC – 2016)
a) rehabilitate the homeless and destitute persons and provide them with suitable sources of livelihood
b) release the sex workers from their practice and provide them with alternative sources of livelihood
c) eradicate the practice of manual scavenging and rehabilitate the manual scavengers
d) release the bonded labourers from their bondage and rehabilitate them
Answer: c)
PLFS Report, 2023-24
Syllabus: Economics, Employment
Source: TOI
Context: The National Statistical Office (NSO) recently released the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) report for 2023-24. It highlights key employment trends in India, including stagnating unemployment rates, increasing labor force participation, and the challenges of creating formal jobs despite significant economic growth.
Key Data Points:
• Unemployment rate: 3.2% in 2023-24, unchanged from 2022-23, the first time no year-on-year decline has been observed since the survey began in 2017-18.
• Labour force participation Rate (LFPR): Increased to 60.1% in 2023-24 (from 57.9% in 2022-23). Rural LFPR rose to 63.7%, and urban LFPR increased to 52%.
• Worker population ratio (WPR): WPR stood at 58.2%, with 76.3% for males and 40.3% for females.
• Unemployment by gender: Female unemployment increased to 3.2% (from 2.9%), while male unemployment slightly declined to 3.2% (from 3.3%).
• Urban-rural divergence: Rural unemployment increased slightly to 2.5% from 2.4%, while urban unemployment improved, falling to 5.1% from 5.4%.
• Increase in self-employment: The share of self-employed individuals rose to 58.4%, from 57.3% in 2022-23.
Positives and Negatives:
Positives | Negatives
Increase in Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) | Stagnant unemployment rate at 3.2%, raising concerns about job creation
Marginal improvement in job quality with salaried workers rising to 21.7% | High youth unemployment rate (10.2%), especially for females (11%)
Worker Population Ratio (WPR) increased to 58.2% | Increase in self-employment, much of it informal or unpaid work
Urban unemployment rate fell to 5.1% | Gender disparity: Female unemployment rose to 3.2% from 2.9%
Rising participation in the workforce post-pandemic | Challenges in creating formal jobs, pushing people into informal roles
Way ahead:
• Sectoral diversification: Investment in manufacturing, renewable energy, and tech innovation to generate productive and higher-wage jobs.
• Strengthening MSMEs: Provide targeted financial support and regulatory ease to help MSMEs recover and boost employment.
• Human-centric tech adaptation: Focus on labor-intensive sectors like healthcare and sustainable manufacturing, which are less prone to automation.
• Industry-aligned skilling: Align skilling programs with emerging sectors like AI, green jobs, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
• Encouraging high-potential services: Focus on sectors like e-commerce, logistics, and online education to create employment opportunities across skill levels.
Conclusion:
The PLFS 2023-24 report presents a mixed picture, with positive indicators like rising labor participation and declining urban unemployment. A focused, sector-specific approach and industry-aligned skilling are crucial to ensuring sustainable job creation and economic growth in the future.
Insta Links:
• PLFS- 2022-23
• India Employment Report, 2024
• Most of the unemployment in India is structural in nature. Examine the methodology adopted to compute unemployment in the country and suggest improvements. (UPSC-2023)
• “Success of ‘Make in India’ program depends on the success of ‘Skill India’ programme and radical labour reforms.” Discuss with logical arguments. (UPSC-2015)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 30 September 2024 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
Internet shutdown in Bhadrak
Context: The Odisha government ordered a 48-hour internet shutdown in Bhadrak district to curb communal tensions after inflammatory social media posts sparked unrest. The situation escalated with stone-pelting, injuries to police, and damage to government property, prompting prohibitory orders. The district had previously witnessed similar violence in 2017.
Usage in UPSC Syllabus:
• GS1 (Social Issues): Example of how communal tensions fueled by social media can disturb social harmony and public order.
• GS2 (Governance): Example of government intervention through internet shutdowns to prevent the spread of communal violence and maintain law and order.
• GS4 (Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude): Illustrates ethical governance in crisis management, balancing freedom of expression and public safety.
SBM Urban 2.0
Context: As a goal of the SBM Urban 2.0, which was launched in 2021, all legacy landfills in the country are to be cleared by 2025-2026.
Data points from legacy landfill remediation under SBM-Urban 2.0: (Source: SBM Dash board)
• Ahmedabad: Cleared 4.3 acres of land from 2.30 lakh tonnes of waste at Bopal Ghuma site. Redeveloped into an ecological park costing Rs. 8 crore. Work ongoing at larger Pirana landfill (84 acres) with 54% cleared.
• Nagpur: Remediated 35 acres of landfill containing 10 lakh metric tonnes of waste. Site planned for an integrated waste management project.
• Pune: Cleared 75 acres of land at Vanaz landfill, remediating 37 lakh tonnes of waste. The site is now the Hill View Park Car Depot, part of the Pune Metro Rail project.
These efforts are part of the SBM Urban 2.0 goal to clear all legacy landfills by 2025-2026.
Usage in UPSC Syllabus:
• GS2 (Governance & Urban Development):
• Example of Urban Governance & Policy Implementation: Demonstrates effective urban waste management and governance under Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0.
• Public Policy & Schemes: Highlights successful execution of national schemes, showcasing inter-departmental coordination for land reclamation and urban development.
• GS3 (Environment & Sustainable Development):
• Solid Waste Management: Example of bioremediation and sustainable urban practices in waste management.
• Conservation and Environmental Impact: Case of ecological parks and integrated waste management projects improving urban ecosystems.
J&K Militancy
Context: The ongoing assembly elections in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) mark the first since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 and its reorganisation into a Union Territory. The elections come amidst a significantly improved security scenario, particularly when compared to 2014, with a notable decline in terror-related incidents.
Improved security situation:
• Terror-related incidents in J&K have decreased from 222 in 2014 to 23 in 2024.
• Security forces’ fatalities have dropped from 47 in 2014 to 25 in 2024, with 17 deaths in Jammu.
• Civilian killings have reduced from 28 in 2014 to 16 in 2024 (11 in Jammu, 5 in Kashmir).
Decrease in terror activities:
• Terrorist-related incidents have significantly reduced, with 45 terrorists killed in 2024, down from 110 in 2014.
• There were zero grenade attacks, IED strikes, or hartal calls in 2024, compared to 23 grenade attacks, 9 IED strikes, and 41 hartal calls in 2014.
• Four districts in Kashmir—Kulgam, Shopian, Pulwama, and Srinagar—showed better voter turnout than in 2014, reflecting the improved security.
Use in GS2 (Governance, Constitution, and Polity):
• Election processes: Example of improved voter turnout and reduced violence in J&K post-Article 370 abrogation.
• Federalism and security: Impact of Union Territory status on internal security and governance in J&K.
Use in GS3 (Internal Security):
• Internal security challenges: Decline in terror incidents and disruptions during J&K elections, reflecting effective counter-insurgency strategies.
• Terrorism and society: Reduction in terror activities showing the success of counterterrorism measures in restoring normalcy.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 30 September 2024 Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Pillbox
Source: TH
Context: The monsoon season in Visakhapatnam has caused beach erosion, revealing historical World War II pillboxes that had long been buried under sand. These structures offer a glimpse into the city’s strategic maritime defense legacy during the war.
What is a Pillbox?
• Definition: Pillboxes are small, concrete defense structures used during World War II, equipped with loopholes for firing weapons.
• Design: Named after early 20th-century medicine containers (“pillboxes”) due to their compact, circular design.
Formation:
• Built during WWII: Constructed by the British in Visakhapatnam to protect the city’s naval base and deep harbor.
• Strategic placement: Positioned along the coastline to defend against potential invasions by Axis forces, especially threats from Japanese submarines and aircraft.
• Defense: Enabled soldiers to fire weapons while being protected from enemy attacks.
• Coastal Protection: Served as part of a larger defense network guarding Visakhapatnam’s shores and port.
• Legacy: These pillboxes are relics of Visakhapatnam’s role as a crucial naval base during WWII.
Insta links:
Operation Amrith
Source: TH
Context: Kerala has taken a significant step in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by launching Operation Amrith, enforcing the 2011 H1 rule to prohibit the over-the-counter (OTC) sale of antibiotics.
About Operation Amrith:
• Aim: To curb the irrational use of antibiotics by banning their sale without a prescription, reducing the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
• Launched by: Kerala government in 2023.
• Features: Strict enforcement of the 2011 H1 rule, which bans the OTC sale of all classes of antibiotics (first, second, and third-line) without a doctor’s prescription. Targeting pharmacies, hospitals, and other medical stores to ensure compliance. Kerala remained committed to the 2011 rule, unlike other states which followed a modified 2013 rule allowing OTC sales of first-line antibiotics. Focuses on antibiotic stewardship to prevent the misuse of antibiotics, thus mitigating the threat of AMR.
• Strict enforcement of the 2011 H1 rule, which bans the OTC sale of all classes of antibiotics (first, second, and third-line) without a doctor’s prescription.
• Targeting pharmacies, hospitals, and other medical stores to ensure compliance.
• Kerala remained committed to the 2011 rule, unlike other states which followed a modified 2013 rule allowing OTC sales of first-line antibiotics.
• Focuses on antibiotic stewardship to prevent the misuse of antibiotics, thus mitigating the threat of AMR.
• Targets:
• To completely stop the OTC sale of antibiotics without prescriptions by the end of 2024.
• Achieve a sustained reduction in antibiotic misuse, which has already resulted in a ₹1,000 crore decline in sales.
Insta links:
Neutrino Fog
Source: TH
Context: The LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) experiment, one of the many dark matter detection efforts globally, recently reported its findings, which placed the tightest restrictions yet on the possible identity of dark matter particles.
About Neutrino Fog:
• “Neutrino fog” refers to the interference caused by neutrinos—ghostly particles produced by the Sun and cosmic events—in detecting dark matter. Since neutrinos rarely interact with matter, they pass through almost everything, including dark matter detectors.
Why it matters:
• Dark matter detection experiments, like LUX-ZEPLIN, are becoming increasingly sensitive, but they also detect neutrinos. This creates “fog,” or background noise, making it harder to distinguish between neutrinos and dark matter signals.
Significance:
• Challenge in detection: Neutrinos mimic the weak signals expected from dark matter, confusing results.
• Limits on sensitivity: Neutrino fog sets a boundary on how sensitive future dark matter experiments can be.
• Scientific implication: Developing methods to differentiate neutrino signals from dark matter is a key challenge for advancing research.
Insta links:
• Dark Matter
Nipah Virus
Source: TH
Context: Nipah virus (NiV) has become a significant public health concern in India, particularly in Kerala, where recurrent outbreaks have resulted in fatalities. It is a zoonotic virus, transmitted from animals to humans, and its high mortality rate has prompted urgent government action and preventive measures.
Nipah virus overview:
• Origin: Nipah virus first appeared in Malaysia in 1999 among pig farmers. It was detected in Bangladesh in 2001 and in India around the same time.
• Transmission: NiV is transmitted from fruit bats (flying foxes) to humans through contaminated food or direct contact with infected animals or people. Human-to-human transmission is also possible.
• Symptoms: Early signs include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, and sore throat. Severe cases progress to dizziness, drowsiness, and neurological issues such as acute encephalitis, potentially leading to a coma and death.
• Early signs include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, and sore throat.
• Severe cases progress to dizziness, drowsiness, and neurological issues such as acute encephalitis, potentially leading to a coma and death.
Cases in India:
• Siliguri, West Bengal (2001): The first Indian outbreak, involving human-to-human transmission.
• Kerala Outbreaks: 2018: 17 fatalities from the virus, concentrated in Kozhikode. 2023: Kerala reported six confirmed cases, including two deaths. 2024: Kerala reported 2 death recently.
• 2018: 17 fatalities from the virus, concentrated in Kozhikode.
• 2023: Kerala reported six confirmed cases, including two deaths.
• 2024: Kerala reported 2 death recently.
Treatment:
• There is no specific treatment or vaccine for Nipah virus.
• Supportive care: Management focuses on intensive supportive care, treating symptoms, and preventing complications.
• Experimental treatments: The antiviral Ribavirin has shown limited success in reducing mortality rates.
Insta Links:
• Nipah Virus
Mehrauli Archaeological Park
Source: Live Mint
Context: Mehrauli Archaeological Park is one of Delhi’s most historically rich and significant areas, showcasing over 1,000 years of continuous occupation. It is adjacent to the famous Qutub Minar and includes over 100 historically significant monuments, reflecting various dynasties’ architectural and cultural legacies.
Mehrauli archaeological park overview:
• Year of establishment: The area has been inhabited for over 1,000 years, with structures dating back to the 11th century.
• Constructed by: The site contains contributions from various rulers, including the Tomar Rajputs, Khaljis, Tughlaqs, Lodis, Mughals, and even the British.
• Location: Situated in the Mehrauli area of South Delhi, adjacent to the Qutub Minar and Qutb complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Features of architecture:
• Lodhi and Mughal Influence: Monuments like the Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb showcase a blend of Lodi and Mughal architectural styles, with a focus on refinement and the use of better materials.
• Significant monuments: Tomb of Balban (1287 CE): Contains India’s first true arch and dome. Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb (1526-1535 CE): An important 16th-century monument showcasing the transition from Lodi to Mughal architectural elements. Rajon Ki Baoli: A stepwell, reflecting the importance of water management systems in historical Delhi.
• Tomb of Balban (1287 CE): Contains India’s first true arch and dome.
• Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb (1526-1535 CE): An important 16th-century monument showcasing the transition from Lodi to Mughal architectural elements.
• Rajon Ki Baoli: A stepwell, reflecting the importance of water management systems in historical Delhi.
• Gandhak ki Baoli and Quli Khan’s Tomb: Further examples of the ingenuity and design employed during various reigns, particularly during the late Mughal period.
• British-era structures: The park also contains remnants of the British colonial era, showcasing a wide timeline of Delhi’s history.
Insta Links:
• Zafar Mahal
Pusa-2090
Source: IE
Context: Pusa-44, a high-yield rice variety from the IARI, has been widely grown in Punjab and Haryana for decades. However, its long maturation period has contributed to stubble burning, causing severe air pollution in northern India. To mitigate this, IARI introduced Pusa-2090, a new variety with similar yields but a shorter maturation time, aiming to reduce environmental and logistical issues linked to Pusa-44.
Pusa Variety 2090:
• Developed by: Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi
• Genetic Features: A crossbreed between Pusa-44 and CB-501, an early-maturing Japonica rice line. It combines the high yields of Pusa-44 with CB-501’s shorter duration.
Comparison of Pusa-2090 and Pusa-44:
Feature | Pusa-2090 | Pusa-44
Maturity Time | 120-125 days | 155-160 days
Yield | 34-35 quintals per acre | 35-36 quintals per acre
Stubble Burning | Less likely due to shorter growing period | Common due to late harvesting and time pressure for wheat sowing
Water Requirement | Requires 5-6 fewer irrigations | Requires 29-30 irrigations
Suitability for Crop Rotation | Highly suitable due to early harvesting | Limited suitability, as late harvesting delays subsequent crops
Significance of Pusa-2090:
• Environmental impact: Reduces the need for stubble burning, which is a major contributor to air pollution in northern India.
• Efficient water use: Requires fewer irrigations, making it a more water-efficient crop in water-scarce regions like Punjab and Haryana.
• Higher productivity: Farmers can clear fields earlier for timely wheat sowing or other crops, thus maintaining the agricultural cycle efficiently.
• Sustainability: Pusa-2090 promotes environmentally friendly farming practices by addressing key issues related to pollution, water use, and crop rotation.
Insta Links:
• Pusa – 2090
• Pusa – 44
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 30 September 2024 Mapping:
Yemen Attack
Source: News18
Context: Israel’s military says it has launched a series of air raids on Houthi targets in Yemen, further heightening fears of a wider regional conflict in the wake of intensified Israeli attacks on Gaza and Lebanon.
Places in news:
• Ras Isa: A strategic port on the Red Sea coast of Yemen, primarily known for its oil export facilities. It plays a significant role in Yemen’s maritime trade and energy exports.
• Hodeidah: A key port city on the western coast of Yemen, it serves as a vital hub for the import of goods and humanitarian aid into the country. Hodeidah has been a major focus of the conflict due to its strategic importance for controlling access to the Red Sea.
• Sanaa: The capital and largest city of Yemen, Sanaa is a historical and political center. It has been under Houthi control since 2014 and has seen significant conflict during the ongoing civil war.
Insta links:
• Houthi Rebels
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 30 September 2024
Please subscribe to Our podcast channel HERE
Official Facebook Page HERE
Twitter Account HERE
Instagram Account HERE
LinkedIn: HERE