1. International Relations
Israeli Strikes in Lebanon
- Prelims Perspective
- Immediate Causes: The airstrikes were primarily a response to Hezbollah’s rocket attacks on northern Israel, which were launched in retaliation for Israeli strikes that killed a top Hezbollah commander and numerous fighters.
- Consequences: The airstrikes resulted in significant casualties, with over 356 Lebanese killed and thousands displaced. This has escalated tensions in the region and raised concerns about a wider conflict.
- Key Locations:
- Marjayoun: A town in southern Lebanon where Israeli airstrikes caused significant damage.
- Sidon: A major port city in southern Lebanon from where thousands of Lebanese fled due to the airstrikes.
- Beirut: The capital of Lebanon, which also experienced the impact of the conflict, with a massive exodus of people from the southern regions.
- Bekaa Valley: A region in eastern Lebanon where Hezbollah has a strong presence and which was targeted by Israeli airstrikes.
- Involved Parties:
- Israel: The Israeli military conducted the airstrikes, stating that they were targeting Hezbollah weapons sites.
- Hezbollah: A Lebanese Shia militant group that has been engaged in conflict with Israel for decades.
- Mains Perspective
- Broader Context: The airstrikes should be analyzed within the broader context of the Israel-Palestine conflict and its impact on regional stability. The ongoing conflict in Gaza and the hostage situation further complicate the situation.
- Humanitarian Impact: The airstrikes have caused a severe humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, with a high number of casualties and widespread displacement. The disruption of essential services and infrastructure adds to the suffering of the Lebanese people.
- Potential for Escalation: The current situation carries a significant risk of further escalation, potentially leading to a full-fledged war between Israel and Hezbollah. This could have devastating consequences for the entire region.
- Role of International Actors: The international community, including the UN and major powers, needs to play an active role in mediating the conflict and preventing further escalation. Humanitarian aid and support for the affected population are also crucial.
PM Modi’s Address at the UN
- Prelims Perspective
- Key Points:
- PM Modi advocated for a “human-centric approach” in shaping the global future.
- He emphasized that the “success of humanity lies in our collective strength, not on the battlefield.”
- UN Summit of the Future & Pact of the Future:
- The Summit aimed to address global challenges and shape a better future for humanity.
- The Pact of the Future outlines commitments and actions by member states towards a safer, more peaceful, sustainable, and inclusive world.
- Key Points:
- Mains Perspective
- India’s Role in Global Governance: India’s active participation in the UN and its emphasis on a human-centric approach reflect its growing influence in global governance. India’s contributions to peacekeeping missions and its advocacy for reforms in international institutions are noteworthy.
- Human-Centric Approach: PM Modi’s call for a human-centric approach highlights the need to prioritize the well-being and dignity of individuals in addressing global challenges. This approach emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, equity, and sustainable development.
- Pact of the Future: The Pact represents a significant step towards addressing global challenges and building a better future. However, its effectiveness will depend on the concrete actions and commitments of member states. The lack of specific timelines for implementation is a potential limitation.
2. Governance & Polity
Supreme Court Judgment on Child Pornography
- Prelims Perspective
- Key Points:
- The Supreme Court’s ruling makes the mere possession of child pornography an offense under the POCSO Act and the IT Act, even without further dissemination.
- This strengthens the legal framework for combating child sexual abuse and exploitation.
- Relevant Laws:
- Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012: A comprehensive law to protect children from sexual offenses, including child pornography.
- Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000: Governs various aspects of online activities, including the transmission and dissemination of illegal content.
- Key Points:
- Mains Perspective
- Implications for Child Protection: The judgment has significant implications for child protection by criminalizing the possession of child pornography. This will deter individuals from engaging in such activities and aid in the prosecution of offenders.
- Combating CSAM in the Digital Age: The digital age poses challenges in combating CSAM due to its easy accessibility and anonymity. The judgment strengthens the legal tools to address this issue, but further measures, such as technological solutions and international cooperation, are needed.
- Role of Law Enforcement & Technology: Law enforcement agencies need to be equipped with the necessary skills and resources to investigate and prosecute cases related to CSAM. Technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, can be leveraged to detect and prevent the spread of CSAM online.
National Green Hydrogen Mission
- Prelims Perspective
- Key Points:
- The government is establishing a Mission Secretariat to implement the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
- The mission aims to promote the production and use of green hydrogen, a clean and sustainable energy source.
- Key Points:
- Mains Perspective
- Significance of Green Hydrogen: Green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy sources, has the potential to decarbonize various sectors, including transportation, industry, and power generation. It can contribute to India’s climate goals and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
- Challenges & Opportunities: The development of a green hydrogen ecosystem requires significant investments in research and development, infrastructure, and policy support. However, it also presents opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and technological advancements.
- Government’s Role: The government’s initiative to establish a Mission Secretariat demonstrates its commitment to promoting green hydrogen. Effective implementation of the mission will require collaboration between various stakeholders, including industry, academia, and research institutions.
3. Economic Development
India’s Economic Growth
- Prelims Perspective
- Current Figures:
- India’s GDP is around USD 3.9 trillion.
- The GDP growth rate has been over 7% for the past three years.
- India is currently the fifth-largest economy in the world.
- PM Modi’s Vision: PM Modi aims to make India the third-largest economy during his third term.
- Current Figures:
- Mains Perspective
- Factors Driving Growth: Analyze the factors contributing to India’s economic growth, such as demographic dividend, increasing urbanization, infrastructure development, and government policies.
- Challenges & Opportunities: Discuss the challenges, such as income inequality, unemployment, and environmental concerns, that need to be addressed for sustained economic development. Also, explore the opportunities presented by India’s young population, digital transformation, and global economic shifts.
- Government Policies: Evaluate the effectiveness of government policies and initiatives, such as Make in India, Digital India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat, in promoting economic growth and attracting investments.
Track Doubling Projects in Assam
- Prelims Perspective
- Key Projects:
- New Bongaigaon-Agthori via Rangiya
- New Bongaigaon-Goalpara-Guwahati
- Agthori-Kamakhya (including the second rail-cum-road bridge at Saraighat)
- Lumding-Furkating
- Kamakhya-New Guwahati (third line)
- Executing Agency: Northeast Frontier Railway (Construction Organization)
- Investment: Note the total investment for each project.
- Key Projects:
- Mains Perspective
- Impact on Connectivity & Efficiency: Track doubling will enhance railway connectivity and improve the efficiency of train operations in Assam. This will benefit both passenger and freight traffic, leading to increased economic activity and trade.
- Boost to Economy & Commerce: Improved railway infrastructure will attract investments, create jobs, and boost the overall economy of the state. It will also facilitate the movement of goods and services, promoting trade and commerce.
- Addressing Capacity Constraints: Track doubling will address the issue of high capacity utilization in various sections, reducing delays and improving the overall travel experience. It will also enable the introduction of new train services.
4. Environment & Disaster Management
Rainfall Deficit & Temperature Rise in Assam
- Prelims Perspective
- Rainfall Deficit: September 2024 has witnessed a record low rainfall, with deficits ranging from 61% to 99% in various districts.
- Temperature Rise: The deficit rainfall has led to a significant increase in temperature, with some districts experiencing temperatures 5-7 degrees above normal.
- Mains Perspective
- Causes & Consequences: Analyze the factors contributing to the rainfall deficit and temperature rise, such as climate change, deforestation, and urbanization. Discuss the potential consequences, including drought, water scarcity, crop failure, and heat-related illnesses.
- Impact on Agriculture & Water Resources: The deficit rainfall and high temperatures can severely impact agriculture, leading to crop losses and affecting the livelihoods of farmers. It can also strain water resources, leading to scarcity and affecting various sectors.
- Government Preparedness & Response: Evaluate the government’s preparedness and response to drought-like situations. The state needs to invest in drought-resistant crops, early warning systems, and water conservation measures.
Hot Weather & Power Demand
- Prelims Perspective:
- The hot weather in Assam has led to a significant increase in power demand, reaching 2,870 MW during peak hours.
- The Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) had to purchase additional power at a higher cost to meet the increased demand.
- Mains Perspective:
- Impact of Extreme Weather: The incident highlights the vulnerability of Assam’s power infrastructure to extreme weather events. The state needs to invest in more resilient and sustainable power generation and distribution systems.
- Energy Management & Conservation: The increased power demand underscores the need for efficient energy management and conservation measures. Promoting the use of energy-efficient appliances and renewable energy sources can help reduce the strain on the power grid.
Balancing Supply & Demand: The state needs to develop a long-term strategy to balance power supply and demand, especially during peak periods. This may involve increasing power generation capacity, improving transmission and distribution infrastructure, and promoting demand-side management initiatives.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
International Relations
1. Recently, Israel conducted airstrikes in Lebanon, resulting in significant casualties. What was the primary reason cited by Israel for these airstrikes?
(A) Retaliation for Hezbollah’s rocket attacks on northern Israel
(B) To overthrow the Lebanese government
(C) To support the Palestinian cause in Gaza
(D) To establish a military base in Lebanon
2. In his address at the UN Summit of the Future, what did Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasize as the key to humanity’s success?
(A) Military strength and dominance
(B) Economic prosperity and technological advancement
(C) Collective strength and a human-centric approach
(D) Isolationism and self-reliance
3. Which country recently announced its intention to grant sovereignty to the Bektashi Muslims, an Islamic Sufi order, in its capital city?
(A) Turkey
(B) Albania
(C) Iran
(D) Pakistan
Polity & Governance
4. The Supreme Court of India recently delivered a landmark judgment regarding child pornography. What was the key ruling in this judgment?
(A) Possession of child pornography is an offense, even without further dissemination
(B) Watching child pornography is not an offense unless it is shared with others
(C) The definition of child pornography was expanded to include animated content
(D) The burden of proof in child pornography cases was shifted to the accused
5. The Government of India has approved the constitution of a Mission Secretariat under which mission to promote the production and use of green hydrogen?
(A) National Solar Mission
(B) National Green Hydrogen Mission
(C) National Wind Energy Mission
(D) National Biogas Mission
Economic Development
6. According to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is making efforts to become the world’s third-largest economy in his third term. Which countries currently hold the top two positions?
(A) United States and China
(B) China and Japan
(C) United States and Germany
(D) Germany and Japan
7. The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is undertaking track doubling projects in various sections across Assam. Which of the following is NOT one of the ongoing track doubling projects mentioned in the news article?
(A) New Bongaigaon-Agthori via Rangiya
(B) Guwahati-Lumding
(C) Agthori-Kamakhya
(D) Lumding-Furkating
Environment & Disaster Management
8. The month of September 2024 has witnessed a record low rainfall in Assam, leading to a significant rise in temperature. What is the primary reason cited for this rainfall deficit?
(A) El Nino effect
(B) Deforestation
(C) Urbanization
(D) All of the above
9. The hot weather in Assam has resulted in a significant increase in power demand. Which organization is responsible for power distribution in the state?
(A) Assam Power Generation Corporation Limited (APGCL)
(B) Assam Electricity Grid Corporation Limited (AEGCL)
(C) Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL)
(D) Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL)
Answer Keys
- A
- C
- B
- A
- B
- A
- B
- A
- C
APSC Mains Practice Question
Q. The recent incident of 20 tea workers collapsing due to heat stroke in the Hingrijan tea estate highlights the vulnerability of workers in the tea industry to extreme weather events. Discuss the challenges faced by tea garden workers in Assam due to climate change and suggest measures to mitigate these challenges. (250 words)
Model Answer
Introduction
The incident of 20 tea workers collapsing due to heat stroke in the Hingrijan tea estate underscores the growing challenges faced by tea garden workers in Assam due to the changing climate. Climate change is exacerbating extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, floods, and droughts, which directly impact the health, livelihoods, and overall well-being of these workers.
Challenges Faced by Tea Garden Workers
- Heat Stress and Health Risks: Rising temperatures and prolonged heatwaves increase the risk of heat stroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses among tea garden workers who spend long hours outdoors in physically demanding tasks.
- Reduced Productivity: Extreme weather events can disrupt tea production, leading to reduced working hours and income for workers. Droughts can affect tea plant growth and yield, while floods can damage crops and infrastructure.
- Water Scarcity: Climate change can alter rainfall patterns, leading to water scarcity in tea-growing regions. This can affect both tea production and the availability of clean drinking water for workers and their families.
- Increased Vulnerability to Pests and Diseases: Climate change can create favorable conditions for the spread of pests and diseases that affect tea plants, further impacting productivity and income.
- Lack of Adequate Infrastructure and Support: Many tea gardens lack basic infrastructure, such as proper housing, sanitation facilities, and healthcare services, making workers more vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
Measures to Mitigate Challenges
- Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Promote the adoption of climate-resilient agricultural practices, such as drought-resistant tea varieties, efficient irrigation systems, and integrated pest management.
- Improved Working Conditions: Provide workers with access to shade, rest areas, clean drinking water, and protective gear to reduce heat stress and health risks.
- Healthcare and Awareness Programs: Conduct regular health check-ups and awareness programs on heat-related illnesses, waterborne diseases, and other health risks associated with climate change.
- Social Security and Insurance Schemes: Extend social security benefits and insurance coverage to tea garden workers to provide financial support during periods of reduced income or health emergencies.
- Skill Development and Diversification: Provide training and support for alternative livelihood options to reduce dependence on tea cultivation and enhance resilience to climate-related shocks.
- Infrastructure Development: Invest in basic infrastructure, such as housing, sanitation, and healthcare facilities, to improve the living conditions of tea garden workers and their families.
Conclusion Addressing the challenges faced by tea garden workers due to climate change requires a multi-pronged approach involving government, industry, and civil society. By implementing climate-resilient agricultural practices, improving working conditions, and providing adequate support and infrastructure, we can ensure the well-being and livelihoods of these vulnerable workers in the face of a changing climate.
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