1. INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY (Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – IR)

Context: India recently applied to the International Seabed Authority (ISBA) in Jamaica for rights to explore two extensive tracts in the Indian Ocean seabed that fall outside its jurisdiction.

International Seabed Authority

• About: It is an autonomous international organization established under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 1994 Agreement
• Control of Mineral Resources: ISA serves as the organization through which States Parties to UNCLOS organize and control all mineral-resources-related activities in the Area for the benefit of humankind as a whole.
• Environmental Protection Mandate: ISA is mandated to ensure the effective protection of the marine environment from harmful effects that may arise from deep-seabed-related activities.
• Establishment: On 16 November 1994, ISA became fully operational as an autonomous international organization in June 1996.
• Headquarters: Kingston, Jamaica.
• Membership169 Members, including 168 Member States and the European Union.
• Common Heritage of Humankind: The Area and its resources, covering approximately 54% of the world's oceans, are considered the common heritage of humankind.

Exclusive Rights

• Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ): Countries are granted exclusive rights to resources up to 200 nautical miles from their borders.
• Continental Shelf Extension: Some coastal states may extend their jurisdiction beyond the 200-mile limit, encompassing the underlying seabed known as the continental shelf.
• ISBA Approval Process: The ISBA, an appointed scientific commission, evaluates claims for extended jurisdiction based on provided evidence.

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2. MONUMENTS OF NATIONAL IMPORTANCE (Syllabus GS Paper 1 – Art and Culture)

Context: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to delist 18 “centrally protected monuments” because it has assessed that they do not have national importance.

Monument of National Importance

• About: A "Monument of National Importance" is designated by the Archaeological Survey of India and includes the following

oThe remains of an ancient monument

oThe site of an ancient monument

oThe land on which there are fences or protective covering structures for preserving the monument.

oLand by means of which people can freely access the monument

Preserving the Monuments

• Mandate of ASI: Under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, the ASI is mandated to preserve monuments that have cultural and historical significance.
• Ban on Construction Activities: Construction activities are banned within 100 meters around the sites where the monuments are located.
• Regulation of Repairs and Modifications: Prior permission is required for any repairs or modifications within 200 meters of the monuments.
• Power to Delist Monuments: The ASI has the power to delist monuments deemed to "have ceased to be of national importance" under Section 35 of the Act.
• End of ASI Responsibility upon Delisting: Once a monument is delisted, the ASI is no longer responsible for protecting it.
• Monument Tracing by ASI: The ASI considers a monument "untraceable" when its location cannot be determined or it has been lost.
• Earlier recommendations: Economic Advisory Council's Recommendation (EAC-PM) proposed updating the list of national monuments in January 2023, suggesting the delisting of "missing" and minor monuments.

oComptroller and Auditor General's Findings: The CAG identified 92 monuments as "missing" in a performance audit conducted around 2013.

oArchaeological Survey of India's Identification: The ASI located 42 of the "missing" monuments and advised categorizing them based on their national significance and architectural value.

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3. SUNDARBANS (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env and Eco)

Context: According to the environmental study report, four million tonnes of microplastics are released into the Bay of Bengal and the Sundarbans each year from various rivers in Bangladesh and India.

Sundarbans

• About: It is a vast contiguous mangrove forest ecosystem situated in the coastal region of the Bay of Bengal, spanning across India and Bangladesh. 
• Located: Delta of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers, which is the world’s largest.
• World's Largest Mangrove Forests: Sundarbans contains the world’s largest mangrove forests, making it an ecological marvel of global significance.
• Conservation Efforts: Sundarbans were intensified with the establishment of the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve in 1973, marking it as a crucial area for wildlife preservation.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Sundarbans National Park, established in 1984, forms the core of the tiger reserve and was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.

oIt is the 27th Ramsar Site in India.

• Biosphere Reserve: Designated as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2001.
• Biodiversity: Known for its diverse fauna, including rare and globally threatened species such as the Estuarine Crocodile, Royal Bengal Tiger, and Gangetic Dolphin.

Nature-based Solutions

• About: Nature-based solutions are actions to protect, sustainably manage, or restore natural ecosystems, that address societal challenges such as climate change, human health, food and water security, and disaster risk reduction effectively and adaptively, simultaneously providing human well-being and biodiversity benefits.

oExamples: Planting trees that thrive in coastal areas – known as mangroves -- reduces the impact of storms on coastal erosion, human lives and economic assets, and provides a habitat for fish, birds and other plants supporting biodiversity.

oOther examples: Climate-smart farming, environmentally sustainable forest management, restoration of wetlands and degraded forests.

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4. CHIPKO ANDOLAN (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env & Eco)

Context: The Chipko Andolan lost its ground at home, but its legacy lies in people’s ecological movements that emerged elsewhere in the country.

Chipko Andolan

• About: It is also known as the Chipko Andolan, emerged as a protest against logging in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand, India, gaining momentum in the early 1970s.
• Origin: The term "Chipko" derives from the act of hugging trees, as locals, particularly women, embraced trees to deter loggers, symbolizing the unity of humanity and nature.
• Inspired by: Bishnoi community in Rajasthan
• Causes of the Movement:, The Chipko Movement arose amid rampant deforestation in the 1970s, which was identified as a leading cause of devastating floods that claimed over 200 lives in the region.
• Scope of the Movement: The non-violent agitation began in Uttar Pradesh's Chamoli district (now Uttarakhand) in 1973, with villagers encircling and hugging trees to prevent their destruction, leading to a change in societal attitudes, particularly regarding women's roles.
• Achievements of the Movement: The Chipko Movement's notable achievements include raising awareness of forest rights, influencing policy-making on ecological matters, and securing a ban on commercial tree felling above certain altitudes and slopes in 1981.
• Leadership: Chandi Prasad Bhatt, Sundarlal Bahuguna, and Gaura Devi, whose leadership and advocacy played pivotal roles in organizing communities and spearheading resistance efforts.
• Impact and Legacy: The Chipko Movement's impact transcended regional boundaries, inspiring similar movements across India and globally, shaping environmental policy, and empowering indigenous communities in their fight against deforestation and environmental degradation.

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5. DIGITAL MARKETS ACT (DMA) (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Economy)

Context: The European Union has opened a non-compliance investigation into Apple and other major tech companies under the Digital Markets Act (DMA).

Digital Markets Act (DMA)

• About: The DMA is EU legislation designed to ensure fairness and competition in the digital sector, aiming for a safer internet, citizen empowerment, consumer protections, and improved digital services.
• Identification of Gatekeepers: It establishes clear criteria to identify "gatekeepers," which are large digital platforms offering core services like search engines, app stores, and messaging services.
• Obligations and Prohibitions: Gatekeepers must adhere to a set of obligations (do's) and prohibitions (don'ts) specified within the DMA.
• Key Measures of DMA:

oData Usage Restrictions: Stricter rules govern how gatekeepers can utilize user data, requiring explicit consent for tracking activities related to advertising.

oInteroperability of Messaging Services: DMA allows messaging platforms to collaborate, enabling users of one platform to communicate with users on other services.

oUninstallation of Preloaded Applications: Users are given the option to uninstall preloaded applications from their devices, enhancing consumer choice.

oFair Search Ranking: Gatekeepers are prohibited from favoring their products or services over others in online search rankings, ensuring a level playing field.

oComplementary Nature to EU Competition Rules: DMA works alongside existing EU competition regulations without altering them, ensuring consistent application.

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6. ATAL PENSION YOJANA (APY) (Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – Govt Schemes)

Context: The Finance Minister of India recently stated that the Atal Pension Yojana is built on the best practice choice architecture, ensuring automatic continuation of premium payments unless the subscriber opts out.

Atal Pension Yojana (APY)

• Launched: 2015
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Finance
• Administered By: Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority.
• Eligibility: Any Indian citizen in the age group of 18-40 years having savings bank account/ post office savings bank account.
• Aim: To provide social security for the people working in an unorganised sector as people working in such sectors mainly belong to a low-income group.
• Coverage: The Scheme has been implemented comprehensively across the country covering all states and Union Territories.
• Guaranteed Pension: 1000 to 5000 per month from the age of 60 years.
• Benefits of APY

oFixed Pension Assurance: Subscribers aged between 18 and 40 can secure a fixed pension ranging from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 5000 by joining and contributing to APY.

oVariable Contribution Levels: Contribution levels adjust according to the age of the subscriber, starting low for early joiners and increasing for late joiners.

oSpousal Pension Continuity: The same pension is guaranteed to the spouse in the event of the subscriber's death, ensuring financial stability for the family.

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7. START 2024 (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)

Context: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will conduct the Space science and Technology Awareness Training (START) 2024 programme during April and May.

Space science and Technology Awareness Training (START) 2024

• About: ISRO has initiated the Space Science and Technology Awareness Training (START) programme targeting post-graduate and final-year undergraduate students in physical sciences and technology.
• Launched: 2023
• Coverage: The START programme encompasses various domains of space science, including Astronomy & Astrophysics, Heliophysics & Sun-Earth interaction, Instrumentation, and Aeronomy.
• Objective: To provide introductory-level training in space science and technology to enable students to explore career opportunities in the field.
• Facilitation by ISRO Scientists: The programme will be conducted by scientists from Indian academia and ISRO centers, ensuring quality content delivery and insights from experts in the field.
• Expanding Horizons: START is part of ISRO's broader efforts to expand India's capabilities in space science and technology, fostering the development of future professionals in the domain.
• Building Human Capacity: By imparting foundational knowledge and emphasizing the cross-disciplinary nature of space science, START aims to build a skilled workforce that will drive space science research in the future.
• Enhancing Research Opportunities: The programme also aims to familiarize students with the Indian space science exploration program and provide insights into research opportunities available in the field.
• Benefitting the Student Community: Students will gain a comprehensive overview of space science and technology, exposure to ongoing research, and guidance on aligning their aptitudes with career paths in the field.

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8. PHILIPPINES (Syllabus: GS Paper 1 – Geography)

Context: India has pledged its support to the Philippines as tensions escalate in the South China Sea.

Philippines

• About: The Philippines is an archipelagic country situated in Southeast Asia.
• Island Composition: Comprising approximately 7,640 islands, it forms a vast and diverse geographical landscape.
• Geographical Divisions: The islands are categorized into three main geographical divisions from north to south: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
• Capital: Manila 
• Bordered by: Philippine Sea to the east, the South China Sea to the west, and the Celebes Sea to the south, the Philippines sits amidst a network of seas.
• Nearby Territories: Adjacent to Borneo, Taiwan, and Sulawesi, the Philippines is strategically located in the Pacific Ocean region.
• Highest Peak: Mount Apo stands as the highest peak, while the Cagayan River is the longest river, showcasing the country's diverse topography.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Puerto Princesa Subterranean River.
• Volcanic Activity: Situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, the Philippines experiences frequent seismic and volcanic occurrences, featuring active volcanoes like Mayon, Pinatubo, and Taal.
• Energy Production: As the world's second-largest geothermal energy producer, the Philippines harnesses its natural resources for sustainable power generation.
• Biodiversity and Climate: With a tropical maritime climate characterized by heat and humidity, the Philippines boasts significant biodiversity, making it a megadiverse country.

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9. KRISHI ICCC (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Agriculture)

Context: The Agriculture Minister of India recently inaugurated a Krishi Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) established at Krishi Bhavan in New Delhi.

Applications of ICCC

• Visualize GIS-based soil carbon mapping with soil health card data for tailored farming advice.
• Correlate yield changes with weather data to proactively address drought impacts.
• Analyze crop diversification maps to suggest alternate crops for regions.
• K-DSS repository integrates spatial and AI data for informed decision-making.
• Compare Krishi MApper and GCES yield data for accuracy validation.

Krishi Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC)

• About: It is a tech-based solution housed within the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, aimed at aiding informed decision-making in the agricultural sector.
• Data Collection: The ICCC utilizes cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to gather and analyze vast amounts of data on various agricultural parameters.
• Visual Output: 8 large LED screens at the ICCC present graphical representations of data on crop yields, production, drought situations, cropping patterns, and more, in map, timeline, and drill-down views.
• Decision Support: The Krishi Decision Support System (DSS) aggregates micro-level data to provide a macroscopic view, aiding in informed decision-making for agricultural planning and management.
• Objective of the ICCC

oMonitoring: The ICCC facilitates comprehensive monitoring of the farm sector by consolidating geospatial information from various sources.

oData Sources Integration: Geospatial data is collected from remote sensing, plot-level data from soil surveys, weather data from the IMD, sowing data from Digital Crop Survey, and farmer-related data from Krishi MApper.

oVisualisation for Decision-Making: Integrated visualization of this data allows for quick and efficient decision-making in agricultural management.

oICCC and PM-Kisan Chatbot Integration: The ICCC ecosystem has the potential to be linked with the PM-Kisan chatbot for enhanced functionality in the future.

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10. SANGEETHA KALANIDHI AWARD (Syllabus: GS Paper 1 – Art and Culture)

Context: Recently, social and other media platforms have been buzzing with news of the diatribe against TM Krishna by musicians who find it offensive that he was recently conferred the "prestigious" Sangeetha Kalanidhi award by The Music Academy, Chennai.

Sangeetha Kalanidhi Award

• About: Sangita Kalanidhi is revered as the pinnacle of achievement in the realm of Carnatic music, symbolizing unparalleled mastery and contribution to the art form.
• Inception in 1942: The prestigious title of Sangita Kalanidhi was established in the year 1942, marking a significant milestone in the recognition of excellence within Carnatic music.
• Evolution from Tradition: Prior to its formal establishment, the tradition involved inviting a distinguished senior musician or expert to preside over the annual conference of the Music Academy.
• Recognition: In 1942, the decision was made to formalize this recognition by conferring the title of Sangita Kalanidhi upon the musician presiding over the Music Academy's conference, accompanied by a gold medal and a birudu patra (citation).
• Honor: Since 2005, the honor of Sangita Kalanidhi has been supplemented with the MS Subbulakshmi Award, presented by The Hindu, further elevating its significance and prestige.
• 2023 awardees: Bombay Jayashri (Vocalist)

Carnatic Music

• About: It  is primarily associated with southern India, spanning states such as Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. It also finds practice in Sri Lanka.
• Ancient Roots and Tradition: Rooted in ancient Hindu traditions, Carnatic music has a rich heritage that dates back centuries.
• Distinct Genre within Indian Classical Music: It stands as one of the two primary genres of Indian classical music, the other being Hindustani music.
• Differences from Hindustani Music: While Hindustani music evolved with influences from Persian and Islamic traditions in northern India, Carnatic music retains its unique character shaped by the cultural milieu of southern India.

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