Volume: 03 Issue: 03 November 2023 Rs.

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Cancer can affect many things
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love you have in your heart.
T H E P R A J YA T E A M

Published by: 
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“You will understand the Gita better with your biceps, your muscles, a
Editorial Board: little stronger. You will understand the mighty genius and the mighty strength
Smt Mali Nandakumar of Krishna better with a little of strong blood in you.”
Educational Consultant
“The earth is enjoyed by heroes—this is the unfailing truth. Be a hero.
Shri Nandakumar V Always say, "I have no fear."”
Educational Consultant
This was Swami Vivekananda’s message to the youth of this great nation
Smt Nandhini S
more than a century ago. These timeless words are as relevant now as then and shall
Principal | D.A.V. Sec School, Mogappair
remain a motivating mantra forever.
Student Contributor:
Chi Shiva Charan S | Class X The Indian contingent at the recently concluded Asian Games proved
themselves worthy of his clarion call. The hundred-plus medal tally of Indians
Teacher Contributors: is a heartwarming and morale-boosting achievement. The youth have displayed
Smt Ghana Saraswathy M exemplary strength of body and mind and projected a resurgent nation.
Smt Manju Aildasani
Smt Meenakshi S To empower our youth, National Skill Development Corporation has come
Smt Ramamani N up with Skills on wheels programme aiming to equip them with crucial technical
Smt Sarada Devi Ravutu skills. This move focusing especially on the rural youth will certainly reduce, if not
Kum Shrivaishnavi R
completely eliminate, the digital divide.
Smt Shubha T R
Kum Silpa Nandakumar The Atal Bihari Training Centre for Disability Sports is a laudable initiative
Independent Contributors: to provide specialized sports infrastructure so that the young para sports persons can
Kum Anu Narayan undergo rigorous and specially designed training.
Smt Anuradha V R
Smt Archana Sundar The newly approved SHRESHTA scheme aims to address educational
Shri Bharath disparities and create equal opportunities for students belonging to the SC
Kum Deepasri community. This will go a long way in unshackling the marginalised youth.
Smt Gaayathiri G
Kum Kavya R Read, reflect and revert with your thoughts and feelings.
Shri Krishna Kumar C S
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NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 3

 International National Current
Current Affairs Affairs
6 The India - Canada 22 PRAGATI and UPAg
standoff launched
9 Asian Games - 24 New world heritage
India's historic sites : Santiniketan
medal haul and Hoysala
temples
12 Brain chip for
recovery from 26 Women
paralysis Reservation Bill
14 India- Bangla 27 Skills on
tie-up for Wheels
multimodal
28 Rashtriya Vigyan
transport route
Puraskar - National
16 WHOOSH - awards for
SE Asia’s first innovation
high-speed railway
29 Veerangana
17 Mohamed Muizzu Durgavati Tiger
wins Maldives Reserve is India's
presidential 54th
election
30 India's first
18 Nobel Prize Hydrogen-run bus
winners 2023
31 Indian Banks - the
20 World's first Green new destination for
Bond standards global investment
21 Operation 33 India's first Silicon
Ajay Carbide device
4 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023
 34 Recent GI Tags: 48 BrahMos - ER
Pashmina craft and supersonic missiles
Yak churpi tested
36 National Turmeric 49 IAF receives first
Board established LCA trainer
37 Sarakka Central General Knowledge
Tribal University
50 Financial literacy
38 High-tech sports - Investment in gold
training center for
Divyangjan 53 Law in focus
- Constitutional
39 India's re-election Amendments - IV
as AIBD GC
President 54 Women scientists
of India - Asima
40 SHRESHTA scheme Chatterjee
for SC students
57 Living Naturally
41 Nationwide - Home remedies
CORS network for Dengue
survey
59 Curiosity Corner -
42 The evolving Logic and Reasoning
Metrorail map of
India 60 Param Veer Vandana
- an introduction
45 India-Sri Lanka
ferry service 62 M S Swaminathan
launched - a tribute

Defence Updates 64 Padma Awardee -

Risingbor Kurkalang
46 Indigenous
Dhruvastra missile 65 Historical Wonder
approved - Mirjan Fort

47 Super high-atitude 66 Spotlight of the

firing ranges in month - Sabita
Arunachal Pradesh Mahato
NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 5
 Shri Bharath

The India - Canada

standoff
A
s I sit down to write this murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar,
piece on the India -Canada Chief of the Khalistan Tiger Force,
standoff I see a breaking a Khalistani separatist militant
news flashed on the TV screen, organisation in June 2023. This
that reads “Canada withdraws 41 accusation was made on the floor of
diplomats from India”. This is the Canadian House of Commons
GOI had ostensibly a reaction to the Indian on 18th September.
declared Nijjar government’s request to “implement The allegation was shocking
parity in mutual diplomatic presence and certainly not the type India is
as a designated in New Delhi and Ottawa”. accused of even by enemy countries.
terrorist in While Canada portrayed India rejected the charge as “absurd”
it as a violation of the 1961 and “motivated’. Subsequently
2020 and Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Canada expelled an Indian diplomat
placed a price Relations, India vehemently denied and India retaliated by expelling a
the charge and said that it is perfectly senior Canadian diplomat.
on his head in legitimate given the fact that there To this day no evidence has
connection with was "continued interference" by been produced by the Canadian
Canada in the internal affairs of government on this charge. It
an explosion India. is also a concern that no arrests
and the murder have been made till now. GOI had
The sequence of events declared Nijjar as a designated
of a priest in It all started with the allegation terrorist in 2020 and placed a price
India. by the Canadian PM Justin Trudeau on his head in connection with an
about the possibility of Indian explosion and the murder of a
government’s involvement in the priest in India.

6 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 During Trudeau’s visit to New The compulsions
Delhi for the G 20 summit there was The Liberal Party Government
palpable unease in the air. However of Trudeau is in a minority in
the one-on-one discussions were the House of Commons and is
general in nature.Canada stressed dependent on the New Democratic
the importance of the Rule of Party led by Jagmeet Singh, a Sikh
Law and Democratic Principles sympathetic to the Khalistan cause.
and India raised concerns over the Canada has about 8,00,000 Sikhs.
growing Sikh extremism in Canada.
In 2018 when Justin Trudeau
But soon after, Canada put off
visited India with his family, he
indefinitely the Trade mission slated
played to the “Sikh Gallery” during
for October 2023.
the personal leg of his tour. However
Earlier in 1985, the Air India in the official meetings that followed
The popular Flight 182 Kanishka from Canada to there was some headway.
reading is that India exploded in the air killing 329
In a first, Canada called for
people. While the flight was still in
Trudeau is the air there was another explosion action against Sikh terror groups in
a joint document with India. This
being motivated at the Narita Airport Tokyo, killing
seemed to be a high point in the
two baggage handlers. This was
by local politics also linked to the Flight 182 attack. relations between the two countries
and there was hope of further
and is indulging The investigation carried out
cooperation. But when the farmer’s
by Canada on this was shoddy and
in plain vote insensitive to say the least with only
agitation broke out in 2020 Trudeau
openly supported the agitation. This
bank politics. one person getting convicted for the
did not go down well with India as
“largest mass murder in Canadian
it was purely an internal matter of
history”. Canada had rejected
India on which no foreign state had
India’s request to handover the key
any business.
conspirator Talwinder Singh Parmar
of the Babbar Khalsa. He was later The popular reading is that
killed in a shoot out by the Punjab Trudeau is being motivated by
Police in 1992. Today the relations local politics and is indulging in
between the two countries has hit plain vote bank politics. Whether
the same low prevalent then. it is his personal leg of his visit in

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 7

 2018, his inaction and connivance any further until credible evidence
at anti-India Sikh militant groups emanates from Canada. This is
in Canada or his interference in the despite the fact that the initial
farmer’s agitation that was largely intelligence input on this has been
associated with the Sikhs of Punjab, given to Canada by the Five Eyes
Trudeau’s behaviour betrayed his Alliance. The United States will try
approach of appeasing the Sikh vote to cool the dispute.
bank in Canada.
The reduction in the diplomatic
It would not be out of place staff strength will result in backlog
to mention that his father Pierre of application decisions and the
The Five Eyes Trudeau was also uncooperative to visa process might take longer.
US, UK, Australia, Canada & Indira Gandhi’s request to control Last year India was the top source
New Zealand.
Sikh extremism in Canada. for temporary foreign workers and
international students in Canada.
How will it pan out?
Canada’s immigration minister
Many in the international media has told that they would continue to
and diplomatic circles feel that welcome Indian immigrants. The
Trudeau has jumped the gun and is country’s Foreign minister Melanie
more on rhetoric than facts. India Joly has also said that they “would
of 2023 is way different from that continue to engage privately with
of the past decades. It is a growing
Five Eyes Alliance is India”.
economic power and is a strategic
an alliance comprising India also would not like to
partner to the US to counter China.
the US, UK, Canada, have a dent to its image of sane
Its diplomatic representation is also
Australia and New diplomacy and consensus building
stronger and enjoys credibility.
Zealand, formed which has its advantages. It is in
after World War II. Hence US has to walk the the interest of all to de-escalate
The purpose is to tight rope and maintain the balance the situation. How soon it happens
enhance the security of between Canada and India. While will tell us whether the tension is
the member countries the US, UK and Australia have between India and Canada or India
by sharing Intelligence. taken stances that have a slant and Trudeau.
towards Canada they might not go

8 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Shri Ramaswamy R

Asian Games
India’s historic medal haul
19th Asian Games held
Top 12 Nations' Medal Standings in Hangzhou, Peoples
S.No. Country Gold Silver Bronze Total
Republic of China (PRC)
from 23rd September to 8th October
1. China 201 111 71 383 was inaugurated by Chinese
President Xi Jinping. The Games
2. Japan 52 67 69 188
were postponed from 2022
3. South Korea 42 59 89 190 because of Covid. 12,000 athletes
from all 45 member countries
4. India 28 38 41 107 of the Olympic Council of Asia
5. Uzbekistan 22 18 31 71 competed for 481 sets of medal
events held at 56 different venues.
Chinese Taipei
6. 19 20 28 67 Nine sports - Artistic Swimming,
(TPE)
Boxing, Breaking, Hockey, Modern
Islamic Pentathlon, Sailing, Tennis and
7. Republic of 13 21 20 54 Water Polo were made Olympic
Iran qualifiers.
8. Thailand 12 14 32 58 No fireworks were let off
9. Bahrain 12 3 5 20 in this self-declared green and
smart games. Indian contingent’s
10. North Korea 11 18 10 39 flag bearers were Harmanpreet
11. Kazakhstan 10 22 48 80 Singh (Field Hockey) and Lovlina
Borgohain (Boxing). Slogan for the
Hong Kong
12. 8 16 29 53 Games was “Heart to Heart, @
(China)
Future”.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 9

 Timeline of India’s golden moments
Date Gold Medal Events
Shooters Divyaansh, Rudrankksh and Aishwary Tomar
Sept 25 in the 10m air rifle event.
Women’s cricket team vs Sri Lanka.
Sift Kaur Samra in Women’s 50m Rifle 3P, with 469.6
Sept 27 broke world record held by Britain’s Mcintosh by 2.6
more points.

Shooters Divyaansh, Rudrankksh Sept 28 Win in 10m Air Pistol event.

and Aishwary Tomar
Highest ever medal tally in shooting. 6 gold, 7 silver
Sept 29
and 5 bronze medals
India defeated arch-rival Pakistan in a nail baiting finish
Sept 30 in Men’s squash.
Ruturaj and Bopanna won Mixed Doubles in Tennis.
Highest ever medal haul in a single day with 3 golds, 7
silver and 7 bronze.
Oct 1 Avinash Sable in 3000m steeple chase.
Tajinderpal Singh Toor in shotput.
Shooting Trap in team event.
Parul Choudhury in 5000 metres.
Oct 3
Anu Rani wins Javelin event.
Neeraj Chopra in Men’s Javelin.
Oct 4 Men’s 4x400 metres relay.
Sift Samra
Gold medal in the women's Archery Mixed team duo of Ojas and Jyothi.
25m rifle 3 position event
Archery in team event.
Oct 5
Rohan Bopanna & Ruturaj Bhosale Deepika Pallikal and Harinder Sandhu in squash.
clinch tennis mixed doubles gold
Oct 6 Men’s Hockey.

Dipika Pallikal & Harinder Pal Sandhu

clinch gold in Squash Mixed Doubles

10 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 India’s Gold Medal Tally in
Asian Games 2023 – Sports wise
Sporting
S.No. Gold Silver Bronze Total
event
1. Shooting 7 9 6 22

2. Athletics 6 14 9 29

3. Archery 5 2 2 9

4. Squash 2 1 2 5
5. Cricket 2 _ _ 2
6. Kabaddi 2 _ _ 2

7. Badminton 1 1 1 3
8. Tennis 1 1 _ 2
9. Equestrian 1 _ _ 1
10. Hockey 1 _ 1 2
OTHERS _ 10 20 30

Gender - wise Medal - wise

Year Athletes
Men Women Mixed Total Gold Silver Bronze Total

2023 661 52 46 9 107 28 38 41 107

2018 570 38 28 4 70 16 23 31 70

Next edition of Asian Games with slogan “Imagine One Asia” will be conducted in 2026 at Nagoya and Aichi
Prefecture, Japan.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 11

 Kum Anu Narayan

Brain chip
for
recovery from paralysis
I
n a groundbreaking move, the journey to approval was far
Neuralink, the brain-chip from straightforward. Concerns
startup spearheaded by the surrounding the safety of the
The focus of prominent entrepreneur Elon Musk, procedure prompted the U.S. Food
has secured permission to initiate and Drug Administration (FDA) to
this clinical its inaugural human trial. This raise questions, leading to a series
study revolves milestone marks a significant step in of negotiations that ultimately led
the quest to unlock the potential of to an undisclosed participant count.
around patients brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). The recent development comes
The focus of this clinical study
grappling with revolves around patients grappling
hot on the heels of Neuralink's prior
achievement, securing the green
paralysis due to with paralysis due to cervical light for its first-ever human clinical
spinal cord injuries or amyotrophic
cervical spinal lateral sclerosis (ALS). Although
trial back in May. During this time,
the company was also undergoing
cord injuries the announcement surfaced on 19th federal scrutiny concerning its
September, the precise number of animal testing practices.
or amyotrophic participants is unknown. Industry experts have chimed
lateral sclerosis. Originally, Neuralink had set in on the potential timeline for
its sights on enlisting 10 participants Neuralink's ambitious project. Even
for this pioneering study. However, if the Brain-Computer Interface

12 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 (BCI) implant proves safe for
human use, it may be a decade
or more before the technology
gains clearance for widespread
commercial application.
However, Neuralink's
aspirations extend far beyond the
realm of paralysis treatment. Elon
Musk envisions a future where BCIs
are used to rapidly implant chip
devices capable of managing an
array of conditions, spanning from
obesity and autism to depression
and schizophrenia.
At the core of this innovative
trial lies a highly intricate surgical
procedure. A robot will delicately
position the BCI implant within
a specific region of the brain
responsible for the intent to
move. The primary objective is to
empower test subjects to interact
with a computer keyboard or move
a cursor using only their thoughts.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal type of motor
The clinical trial is anticipated
neuron disease characterized by progressive degeneration
to span roughly six years,
of nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain. It is often called
providing a robust foundation for
Lou Gehrig's disease, after a famous baseball player who
died from the disease. comprehending the implant's safety
and effectiveness.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 13

 Smt. Sumathi Ramakrishnan

India- Bangla tie-up for

Multimodal transport route
T
o bolster regional economic route for the movement of goods
cooperation and enhancing between India and its northeastern
connectivity, Syama Prasad states. This plan leverages multiple
Mookerjee Port in Kolkata, has ports and modes of transportation,
inked an agreement with Salf including river-based transit, to
The pact Powertec Ltd (SPL) in Bangladesh. streamline the process.
establishes a The pact establishes a novel 2. Distance and Time
multimodal transport route that Saving: Substantial reduction
novel multimodal links the riverine port of Kolkata in both distance and transit
transport route with northeastern India via the ports time translates to cost and time
of Chattogram and Mongla, as well savings in trade between India and
that links the as the Pangaon Inland Container Bangladesh, benefitting both the
riverine port of Terminal in Bangladesh. economies.
This development promises a 3. Prosperity for Northeast
Kolkata with range of benefits and opportunities India: The northeastern states of
northeastern for both nations. India stand to gain substantially
from this improved connectivity.
India. HIGHLIGHTS Goods movement will be more
1. Enhanced Connectivity: efficient and cost-effective,
A more efficient and interconnected fostering economic growth.

14 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

Two dedicated
vessels will be
deployed by the
Bangladeshi
company in the
next 3-4 months
and this will in
turn encourage
others to bring
more vessels on
this route in the
future.
4. Job Creation: Job Two dedicated vessels will
opportunities will be created be deployed by the Bangladeshi
particularly in the logistics sector company in the next 3-4 months and
in both India and Bangladesh, in this will in turn encourage others to
related industries such as transport, bring more vessels on this route in
insurance and finance. the future.
5. Revenue Generation:
The heightened trade and economic This collaborative endeavour
activity will likely generate will be a boon for trade and
additional revenue for both commerce between India and
Bangladesh and the northeastern Bangladesh and boost the economic
states of India. development of northeast India.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 15

 Shri Mrithyunjay GN

Southeast Asia’s First High Speed Railway

O
n 2nd October 2023, “The Jakarta-Bandung high-speed Indonesia has overcome with much
Indonesia unveiled SE train marks the modernization of difficulty. This has been because of
Asia’s first high speed our mass transportation, which the unique geography of the country
railway spanning 142 kilometers is efficient and environmentally comprising multiple small islands.
connecting Jakarta, the capital of friendly,” The 600-train system was
West Java province to Bandung, the The project was a collaboration initially set to be completed by
third largest city in Indonesia. With between China and Indonesia as 2019 and cost less than USD 500
a bullet train that has a potential top part of Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s crores. Land acquisition problems
speed of 350 km/h, it is expected to Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and COVID-19 pandemic caused a
cut the travel time from 3 hours to which is a global infrastructure delay; the final budget came up to
just 40 minutes. development strategy adopted by USD 700 crores.
“Waktu Hemat, Operasi the Chinese government in 2013 to The ballooned cost has not
Optimal, Sistem Handal,” or invest in more than 150 countries been without its benefits, however.
WHOOSH, meaning “timesaving, and international organizations to
The trains have been
optimal operation, reliable system.”, build connecting pathways across
specifically engineered and
was the official name given to this Asia.
designed to suit the humid climate
system by President Joko Widodo The development of WHOOSH of the tropical country and the cost
who remarked at the launch event has been beset by troubles which of travel is also expected to suit
the localities that it connects. The
trains, manufactured in China, have
state-of-the-art safety features and
technology that make navigation
and logistical operation much easier
and cost effective.
By 2030, Indonesia aims to
extend its network of railways to
over 10,000 kilometers. WHOOSH
is a significant milestone in the
country’s effort to develop its
railway infrastructure.

16 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Smt Meenakshi S
Smt Meenakshi S

Mohamed Muizzu
wins Maldives presidential election
T
he Republic of Maldives, politics in 2012 as minister of
also called as the Maldive housing. This election was viewed
Islands lies south-west to the by many observers as a test of
Indian sub-continent. It is a chain of Maldives' connections with China
nearly 1,200 islands, most of which and India. Maldives has long been
This election are uninhabited. The economy under India's sphere of influence.
of Maldives revolves around Maintaining its presence there gives
was viewed tourism and scores of islands have Delhi the ability to monitor a key
by many been developed for the top end part of the Indian Ocean.
of the tourist market. In a recent Both India and China are trying
observers political development Mohamed to strengthen their presence in the
as a test of Muizzu has won the presidential strategically located islands which
elections defeating the ruling straddle busy east-west shipping
Maldives' President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. lanes. Both Delhi and Beijing have
connections Mohamed Muizzu is perceived as given the Maldives hundreds of
being pro-China whereas Solih had millions of dollars in the form of
with China and strengthened relations with India loans and grants for infrastructure
India. and taken the Maldives back into and development projects. It is
the Commonwealth. time for India to wait and watch the
Muizzu holds a PhD in civil unfolding of the new relationship
engineering from the University with Madives under the new
of Leeds in the UK. He entered president.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 17

 Shri Sridhar P

Nobel Prize
2023 winners
N
obel prize for Medicine now a known fact that the spike study of matter at subatomic levels
this year was awarded protein in the SARS-Cov-2 virus remained a theoretical construct.
to Katalin Kariko from causes the infection which triggers Thanks to the seamless integration
the University of Pennsylvania an immune response. The Nobel of various scientific disciplines and
and Drew Weismann for their laureates constructed a special the development of instrumentation
discoveries concerning nucleoside mRNA platform-based vaccine a closer look at subatomic levels
base modifications that enabled the development process. This was later looks interesting.
development of an effective mRNA scaled up to produce mRNA based Attosecond Physics: An
(messenger ribonucleic acid) Covid 19 vaccines on an industrial attosecond is one quintillionth of
based vaccines against Covid 19. scale. The advantage of mRNA- a second. That is the timescale at
Prior to Covid most vaccines were based vaccine development is that which the properties of an electron
developed either with an inactivated the genetic code can be tweaked and changes. In 1988 Annie L’Huillier
virus or inserting the viral genetic reset to develop vaccines against and her colleagues in Paris passed
code into a vector. When inoculated new variants and for a variety of infra-red light through a noble
the patient develops a coordinated other diseases. gas. The gas emitted a light whose
immune response. Nobel prize for Physics was frequency was a high multiple of
The production of proteins that awarded to Annie L’Huillier from the incipient beam. An electron
are responsible for many bodily Lund University Sweden, Pierre would gain energy from such
functions has a fascinating cascade Agostini of Ohio State University an input and move away only to
of steps. DNA (deoxy ribonucleic and Ferenc Krausz from Max lose that energy to get back into
acid) the master molecule that Planck University, Germany original position. This process was
has all the genetic information for their experimental methods later described using equations of
for life enables protein synthesis. to generate atto second ( a unit quantum mechanics. Later in 2001
This it does by making several denoting 10-18) pulses of light for Agostini et al from Paris and Ferenc
copies of itself (mRNA’s) which the study of electron dynamics in Krausz et al from Vienna were
enables protein synthesis. It is matter. For a very long time the able to produce verified attosecond

18 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 an important role in accelerating
this revolutionary change by
offering more opportunities for
career planning. Despite better
education for women, gap in
income parity exists. Historically
much of the gender gap in earnings
pulses in a “train” followed by When did it start? Attempts to can be explained by differences in
a gap. Techniques got so refined create quantum dots started in 1983 occupational choices and education.
further that in 2017, scientists were when Louis Brus and his colleagues Nobel peace prize was
able to produce a pulse of light as succeeded in creating quantum awarded to Iranian peace activist
short as 43 attosecond. Studying dots in liquid. Later a team led by Nargis Mohammadi for her fight
subatomic particles got closer ever Mougni. G. Bawendi from MIT against the oppression of women
since. Applications may come in used hot injection method to create in Iran and her fight to promote
many fields of instrumentation, quantum dots in liquid. A reagent human rights and freedom. After
more efficient solar panels etc. is injected into a chosen solvent graduation in physics, she worked
Nobel prize for Chemistry then heated till nano crystals form. as an engineer. Even then she was a
was awarded to Louis Brus of The crystals are filtered out. This star campaigner for women’s rights,
Columbia University, Alexy method accelerated the adoption of contributing articles for reform
Ivanovich Ekimov of Russia and quantum dots in varied technologies. newspapers.
Mougni.G.Bawendi of MIT for Eventually quantum dots may find In 2003 she became involved
their discovery and synthesis of applications in production of super- with Defenders of human rights
quantum dots. efficient solar panels, highlighting Centre, founded by Shiren Ebadi,
Quantum Dots: A quantum tumours, efficient ways to produce the first Nobel laureate from Iran.
dot is a small assembly of atoms, hydrogen through hydrolysis and Mohammadi was arrested in 2011
let’s say a few thousands and a many more technologies. for her efforts to assist incarcerated
few nano meters wide. Electrons in Nobel Prize for Economics activists and their families. While
such circumstances have very little was awarded to Claudia Goldin of still out on bail she campaigned
place to move and hence exhibit Harvard University for her work to against death penalty, that led to
the quirky effects of quantum uncover the key drivers of gender her rearrest in 2015. In prison
mechanics. Quantum dots are differences in the labour market. She she protested against torture and
neither an atom nor a molecule. provided the first comprehensive sexualized violence against political
Their properties change when their account of women’s earnings prisoners. The popular Mahsa
structure is tweaked and hence it is and labour market participation Amini protest enthused her to
possible to have varied applications through centuries. Goldin showed assume leadership from inside the
from medicine to solar panels. that female participation in the prison, from where she directed her
labour market did not have an support for demonstrators only to
upward tick all the time. It face stricter conditions in jail.
was U shaped curve. The
participation of married Nobel prize for Literature
women in the labour has been awarded to Norwegian
market dropped as society Jon Fosse for his innovative plays
shifted to an industrial one and prose which gave voice to the
from agrarian. The growth unsayable. Fosse’s breakthrough
in the services sector and plays “Namnet”, “Night songs”
its structural changes and “Dreams of autumn” explore
alongside women’s the existential themes of human
responsibilities at home emotion, paradox and experience
ensured more women of divinity. Fosse’s plays have a far-
participation. The access reaching impact in everything he
to contraceptive pill played writes play, poetry or prose.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 19

 Kum Kavya R

World’s first
Green Bond
Standards
to combat
Greenwashing
E
uropean Union lawmakers sustainable. At its core, an activity  transition to a circular
have approved new has to meet the following two economy
standards for companies criteria to be environmentally  pollution prevention and
issuing "European Green Bonds" or sustainable: control
EuGB. Green bonds, alternatively 1. Contribute to at least one of the
known as climate bonds are used
 protection and restoration of
six environmental objectives biodiversity and ecosystems.
to fund projects that have positive listed in the taxonomy;
environmental and/or climate At least 85% of the funds
2. Do no significant harm to any
benefits. These new standards are generated through these bonds
of the other objectives, while
the first of its kind in the world and should be allocated towards
respecting basic human rights
will help investors pick sustainable activities that align with the
and labour standards.
companies and avoid greenwashing aforementioned taxonomy. The
(false claims about climate The six environmental companies have to disclose a
friendliness). objectives of the taxonomy considerable amount of information
The new standards align with are: about how the bond proceeds will
the EU's taxonomy framework  climate change mitigation be used. The company should also
that defines which activities be engaging in a general green
 climate change adaptation
are considered environmentally transition.
 sustainable use and protection A registration system and
of water and marine resources supervisory framework will be set
Europe is the world's up for external reviewers.
largest issuer of green This system will also
bonds, making up more ensure that any actual
than half of global or potential conflicts
volume in 2021, although of interest external
issuance is still only reviewers may face
3% - 3.5% of the overall are properly identified,
bond market. managed or eliminated
in a transparent manner.

20 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Shri Sampath D

A
s the Israel-Hamas war flights and ensured the safety and
escalated and countries well-being of our nationals staying
scrambled to bring home abroad. There are thousands of
their people trapped in the fighting Indian citizens living and working/
or looking for a way out of the studying in Israel. A big chunk of
war zone, India announced it was them work as caregivers but there are
launching Operation Ajay to also about 1,000 students, several IT
repatriate its citizens from Israel and professionals and diamond traders.
Palestine. The Indian government The Indian embassy in Israel had
facilitated the return of Indian emailed the Indian citizens about
citizens through special chartered the special flights.
Operation Ajay flights. The sixth flight under India's
facilitates the Prime Minister Narendra Operation Ajay had successfully
Modi, when he received a phone evacuated 143 Indian citizens,
return from call from Israeli Prime Minister along with two Nepalese nationals.
Israel of those Benjamin Netanyahu, highlighted It followed a previous flight,
the issue of safety and security of which transported 286 passengers,
Indians who Indian citizens in Israel. Benjamin including 18 Nepalese citizens,
wished to come Netanyahu assured full cooperation out of the war-torn region without
and support. mishap.
back home as a
Operation Ajay facilitates the The Ministry of External
series of brazen return from Israel of those Indians Affairs (MEA) has set up a 24-
who wished to come back home as
attacks on a series of brazen attacks on Israeli
hour control room to monitor the
situation and provide assistance.
Israeli towns by towns by Hamas militants triggered
The phone numbers of
fresh tensions in the region. Israel
Hamas militants has already mounted a massive
the control room in Delhi are
1800118797 (toll-free), +91-11
triggered fresh military offensive to avenge the
23012113, +91-11-23014104, +91-
attacks.
tensions in the 11-23017905 and +919968291988,
The Government of India and the e-mail ID is situationroom@
region. had thus arranged Special charter mea.gov.in.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 21

 Shri Ramaswamy R

PRAGATI
Transformative initiative for
Uttar Pradesh farmers
U
P is our most populous Commissioner of UP State
State leading the nation Government.
in terms of agricultural The programme sets out to
production and accounting for a transform agricultural production
quarter of the country’s agricultural in UP by enhancing water use
output. Over 86% of the land under efficiency, improving mechanization
Water irrigation receive abundant water. and integrating climate-smart water
distribution This has led to adopting highly management practices.
water intensive cropping patterns
systems that 1. Water use efficiency
like rice and sugarcane. But the
directly apply combination of small landholdings Increase micro irrigation from
and obsolete technology is 200,000 to 750,000 hectares in
water to the contributing to farmer’s low the next 5 years. Will improve
root zone of income. water use efficiency, increase
PRAGATI, an initiative productivity, and ease water stress.
plants will Water distribution systems that
conceived in 2022, is acronym
be provided for Program for Agricultural directly apply water to the root
Transformation and Increased zone of plants will be provided
to small land to small land holders. Between
Incomes and also meaning
holders. July and September 2023, 35,000
“progress” in Sanskrit and Hindi, is
being led by Agriculture Production farmers have registered, covering
approximately 55,000 hectares.

22 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 2. Improving mechanization
1% increase in the level of
mechanization is found to give
1.6% yield increase in crops.
PRAGATI helps in access,
availability and affordability of
machinery and equipment to small
farmers resulting in both yield and
crop productivity.

3. Climate-smart water
management
Micro-irrigation in specific
crops could slash per yield soil
carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and
nitric oxide emissions by 59%,
38%, and 20% respectively. The
area under climate-smart rice-
wheat systems, for the small and
medium farmers, will be increased
from 25,000 to 250,000 hectares
promoting practices such as direct
seeded rice (DSR), rice crop from
seeds directly planted in the field
rather than transplanting from
nursery rice (TPR).
Unified Portal for Agricultural Statistics TPR is a source of greenhouse
The Indian government has procurement, stock etc. This gases, while DSR even as it helps
launched the Unified Portal for centralized hub will provide near to avoid methane emissions, saves
Agri-Statistics (UPAg), a digital real time information on crop water and labour. PRAGATI in
platform that aims to provide production, market trends, pricing due course would reduce carbon
stakeholders with credible and and other vital agricultural data. footprint and the switch to better
standardized data for informed practices will give better earnings.
UPAg aims to empower
decision-making in the agriculture
stakeholders in the agriculture PRAGATI was conceived
sector. The portal, developed by
sector, including policymakers, by the State’s Multi Stakeholder
the Ministry of Agriculture, will
researchers, and farmers, Platform and is supported by 2030
address challenges related to data
by providing them with Water Resources Group (2030
governance and offer features
such as data standardization, comprehensive insights to support WRG).
analysis, granular production informed decision-making. The latter is a multi-donor trust
estimates and commodity profile The portal aims to address fund managed by the World Bank’s
reports. the data-related governance Water Global Practice (WGP) and
UPAg is an advanced challenges such as lack of financed by Bill & Melinda Gates
agricultural data management standardised and verified data, Foundation (BMGF).
platform to generate crop which make it difficult for The ambitious initiative aims
estimates and integrate with other policymakers, researchers and
to make UP a global leader in
systems generating agriculture stakeholders to make informed
sustainable agriculture within the
statistics such as price, trade, decisions regarding agriculture.
next 5 years.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 23

 Shri Nagarajan R

New World heritage sites

Santiniketan and Hoysala Temples
T
he historic West Bengal Indian Modernism. The university
town of Santiniketan and was rightly defined by Tagore as
the Sacred Ensembles of the “where the world makes a home
Hoysalas, a series of 12th and 13th in a nest”. Eminent people from
Three Hoysala- century temples in Karnataka, have across the globe come here to gain
both been added to UNESCO’s knowledge and to seek harmony
era temples renowned World Heritage List. between nature and nurture.
in Karnataka India now has 42 sites on the list. The Sacred Ensembles
Santiniketan was established of the Hoysalas – namely the
recently made in 1901 by Rabindranath Tagore, Channakeshava Temple in Belur,
it to UNESCO's the Nobel Prize-winning poet and the Hoysaleshwara Temple in
philosopher. The town, which Halebidu and the Keshava Temple
World Heritage includes a residential school, an in Somanathapura - are considered
List under the art centre and a ‘world university’, the most representative examples of
was created based on a vision of temple complexes from the Hoysala
collective entry the unity of humanity, one that empire in southern India. These
of 'Sacred transcends religious and cultural styles of temples are distinct, as its
boundaries. Santiniketan is directly shrines are characterized by hyper-
Ensembles of the and tangibly associated with the real sculptures and stone carvings
ideas, works and vision of Tagore that cover the entire architectural
Hoysalas'. and his associates, pioneers of the surface. They are a culmination of
Bengal School of Art and early various temple building traditions

24 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 prevalent in the northern, central and
southern India such as the Nagara,
Bhumija and Dravida styles.
The practice of having
sculptural panels narrating stories
from the Hindu epics and Puranas
along the walls of the temple
deepening the religious experience
of the circumambulation path, was
first introduced by the Hoysalas.
Chennakesava Temple is one of the
most significant. It was constructed
by King Vishnuvardhana in the 12th
century to commemorate his victory
over the Cholas.
The inscription of these
temples in the World Heritage List
is a combined homage to the great
temple-building tradition of India.
The temples provide a wholesome
experience with their exquisite
architecture, sculptures and intricate
carvings reflecting the genius of the
sculptors in translating religious
beliefs, stories and abstract ideas
into the medium of stone. These
heritage sites are but a reflection of
the great rich cultural and historical
greatness that Bharath has always
been home to!

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 25

 Shri Krishnakumar C S

Another milestone
in women’s
empowerment
“There is no chance for the welfare of the world
unless the condition of women is improved.
It is not possible for a bird to fly
on only one wing.”
- Swami Vivekananda

T
hough our history and culture and Twenty-Eighth Amendment)
emphasize gender equality, Bill, 2023 was introduced in Lok
even today India like most Sabha on 19th September 2023. The
other countries exhibits patriarchal Bill seeks to reserve one-third of
character in social and political life. all seats for women in Lok Sabha
Political empowerment of women and State Legislative Assemblies.
is a prerequisite for their social One-third of the total number
and economic upliftment. Women of seats reserved for Scheduled
leaders would be in a better position Castes and Scheduled Tribes shall
to identify and solve the problems be reserved for women of those
faced by women in the country. groups in the Lok Sabha and the
This Act along One-third of seats are legislative assemblies. Reserved
with other reserved for women in our local seats may be allotted by rotation
self-government. Unfortunately, to different state or union territory
measures women’s representation in our constituencies. Reservation of seats
for women is for a period of 15
initiated national and state legislative
years after the enforcement of this
bodies is one of the lowest in the
by the world. Scandinavian countries like Amendment Act. The bill became
an act as it was passed with a
government Sweden and Norway have more
thumping majority in both houses
than 45% women representation in
would help their national legislatures. In our of Parliament and the President
Lok Sabha, it is just 15%. It is lower gave her assent.
us to build an
than even many of the developing This Act along with other
egalitarian countries of Asia and Africa. measures initiated by the
government would help us to build
society. The Constitution (One Hundred
an egalitarian society.

26 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Smt Archana Sundar

Skills on Wheels
bridges the digital divide
I
n a remarkable endeavour as the flagship of the 'Skill India
to empower rural youth, Mission.'
particularly women, the Union 'Skills on Wheels' will travel
Education and Skill Development to aspirational and backward
Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, and districts, spreading awareness about
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla have free skill training programmes
launched the 'Skills on Wheels' that can transform the lives of
initiative in partnership with the rural youth. Industry-relevant
National Skill Development skill training and enhancement
Corporation (NSDC) and IndusInd of theoretical knowledge lead to
Bank. This aims to enhance the better employability. By aligning
employability of rural youth and candidates' academic background,
equip them with crucial digital aptitude and skillset with industry
skills. requirements, 'Skills on Wheels'
Over the next five years, 'Skills aims to bridge the gap between
on Wheels' intends to empower industry needs and unemployed
60,000 rural youth to improve their youth.
livelihoods by providing essential 'Skills on Wheels' promises
skills. This initiative wants to to be a game-changer in
women job-ready and proficient the landscape of rural skill
in an increasingly digital world. A development, ultimately
customized bus, known as 'Skills benefiting not just individuals but
on Wheels,' has been equipped with entire communities and regions,
cutting-edge tools and technology bringing them closer to a brighter,
to reach the remotest areas, serving digitally empowered future.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 27

 Kum Anu Narayan

Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar

Awards for innovation
T
he Rashtriya Vigyan  Vigyan Yuva Shanti Swarup The process for nominations
Puraskar, as revealed by Bhatnagar: Exceptional will open every year from 14th
Union Minister for Science young scientists will be January to 28th February, coinciding
and Technology Dr. Jitendra encouraged through this. with National Science Day. The
Singh, is a set of awards designed names of the awardees will be
 Vigyan Team: Teams
to recognize and celebrate the unveiled on 11th May (National
consisting of three or more
contributions of scientists in four Technology Day). The actual
members who have made
different categories. award ceremony, though, will take
noteworthy contributions to
The long-anticipated release place on 23rd August, designated
the field of science will be
of the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar as the new National Space
recognized.
awardees list, which had been Day, commemorating India's
These awards are set to be Chandrayaan-3 lunar landing.
postponed for a year, has finally implemented from 2024. They
occurred. The Shanti Swarup For the first two years, the
will be bestowed in 13 different
Bhatnagar award remains a Council for Scientific and Industrial
domains, encompassing a wide
prestigious honour for young range of scientific disciplines, Research (CSIR) will manage the
scientists and retains its original including Physics, Chemistry, award processes. Afterwards, this
name. Biological Sciences, Mathematics, responsibility will be taken over
Earth Science, Medicine, by the newly established National
The four categories: Engineering Sciences, Agricultural Research Foundation.
 Vigyan Ratna: This Science, Environmental Science, Dr. Singh emphasized that the
Technology and Innovation, Atomic aim is not to reduce the number
acknowledges the lifetime
Energy and Space Science and of awards but to streamline and
achievements of eminent
Technology. enhance their prestige and value. To
scientists.
The annual Vigyan Ratna this end, the practice of endowments,
 Vigyan Shri: Distinguished awards will be limited to three where families funded awards in
contributions to specific fields categories: 25 Vigyan Shri, 25 memory of deceased scientists, has
of science will be honoured Vigyan Yuva, and 3 Vigyan been discontinued to ensure that
under this category. Team. The Vigyan Yuva category,
awards are based solely on merit
however, comes with an age limit of
and achievement.
45 years.

28 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Smt Shubha T R

Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve

is India’s 54th
L
argest cat species, a Gondwana, Durgavati, who ruled
cultural icon or a symbol of the region in the 16th century.
power? Tiger is all that and
much more. The presence of this There are 6 tiger reserves in the
species conserves the entire forest state namely Kanha, Bandhavgarh,
d MP has the highest
ecosystem. Pench, Panna, Satpura and Sanjay
number of tigers in the Dubri. A green corridor is being
Madhya Pradesh is home to
country (785), followed the largest number of big cats in developed to link Panna Tiger
by Karnataka (563) and the country. The MP government Reserve with Durgavati, facilitating
Uttarakhand (560) and recently unveiled the Veerangana the movement of tigers to the
retains the “Tiger State” Durgavati Tiger Reserve marking new reserve. Parts of the reserve
status. it the 7th in the state and 54th in the will fall under the Narmada and
country. Yamuna River basins. The famous
d 29th July is celebrated Singorgarh fort is also located
Spreading across Sagar,
yearly as International Damoh and Narsinghpur districts of within the reserve. The reserve is
Tiger Day. Madhaya Pradesh, it covers an area home to a variety of flora and fauna
of 2,339 sq. km. It encompasses including Bengal tiger, leopard,
d Rani Durgavati of
areas within Nauradehi Wildlife sloth, nilgai etc. The new reserve
Gondwana fought will help in conservation of wildlife
Sanctuary and Durgavati Wildlife
51 battles ( 3 against Sanctuary. The Sanctuary species in the region, boost tourism
Mughals) and never lost. was named after the Queen of and benefit the local economy.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 29

 Kum Kavya R

India’s first
Hydrogen - run bus
I
ndian Oil Corporation (IOC) Delhi, Haryana and UP. As a part
What is fuel cell technology? unveiled India’s first-ever of this programme, 2 buses were
hydrogen-fueled bus that launched in Delhi. All 15 buses
A fuel cell consists of two
releases only water as its by-product. are set to be launched by the end
electrodes—a negative
Union Minister of Petroleum & of this year and they will cover a
electrode (anode) and
Natural Gas and Housing & Urban cumulative mileage of more than 3
a positive electrode
Affairs, Hardeep S Puri flagged off lakh kilometers to assess long-term
(cathode)—sandwiched
the bus on Kartavya Path, Delhi, on performance and durability of the
around an electrolyte. A fuel,
25th September 2023. This is a great new technology.
such as hydrogen, is fed
leap for our nation in terms of clean IOC’s Research and
to the anode and air is fed
energy transition and establishing a Development Centre in Faridabad
to the cathode. A catalyst
carbon-free economy. is producing the green hydrogen
separates hydrogen atoms
into protons and electrons, "Our government has ambitious required for the trial run. Green
which take different paths plans on clean and green energy. hydrogen (GH2) is hydrogen
to the cathode. The electrons India has taken many steps towards produced by electrolysis of water,
go through an external low carbon development- through using renewable electricity. As
circuit, creating a flow of emerging fuels like hydrogen and much as 50 units of renewable
electricity. The protons move biofuels and shall account for electricity and 9 kg of deionized
through the electrolyte to 25% of global incremental energy water are needed for the production
the cathode, where they demand growth over the next two of one kilo of green hydrogen.
reunite with oxygen and the decades," Puri said. The buses need 4 cylinders with a
electrons to produce water IOC has undertaken operational capacity of 30 kg to run 350 km.
and heat. trials of 15 hydrogen fuel cell buses It takes 10-12 minutes for the four
powered by green hydrogen in tanks to fill.

30 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Shri Sampath D

Indian Banks
The new destination for global
investments
O
ver the years, India the main drivers of consumption
has emerged as one expenditure.
of the fastest-growing The possibilities seem endless
economies in the world, and it if the right policies can be aligned
now offers a thriving environment with the anticipated rapid population
India's large and for investments. India’s GDP growth. Under this scenario Indian
currently stands at around USD banks are likely to attract increasing
young consumer 3.7 trillion, with every possibility global investment from investors
market, skilled of it doubling to USD 7 trillion by looking for better returns as there
2030. This exponential growth is is higher credit growth, improved
labour force, attributed to an expanding middle margins and stable political order.
and potential for class, policy reforms, infrastructural The total market value of foreign
development and a shift toward
innovation and clean energy, among other factors.
institutional investors' holdings in
Indian banks is at ` 8.363 trillion as
entrepreneurship With the largest youth of 30th June from ` 7.713 trillion
make it an population in the world, it has very a year prior (S&P Global Market
favourable demographics, with the Intelligence). This is a significant
attractive median age of its citizens below 30. rise from the ` 6.734 trillion in June
destination for India's huge domestic consumption, 2020.
led by the private sector, has played A host of government initiatives
investors. a major role in the country's growth. has also enabled India's investment
India has an estimated middle class growth, including improving the
of 400 million people who are infrastructure, and propagating

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 31

 Mergers and acqui-
sitions are business
transactions in which the
ownership of companies,
business organizations, an investor friendly FDI (Foriegn market share and consistent
or their operating units Direct Investment) policy, in which profitability. This is also attributed
are transferred to or most sectors are open for 100% FDI to the quick turnaround in growth
consolidated with under the automatic route. post-COVID.
another company or As the economy grows and
business organization. Homegrown deal makers are
consumers are in need of more hopping overseas, tracking their
credit, the banking and NBFC
clients who are expanding globally.
(Non Banking Financial Company)
Indian investment banks are opening
FDI involves purchase of sector are both growing bigger.
offices abroad and striking alliances
an asset in another country Additionally, digitalization is
with overseas M&A (mergers and
giving direct control to the enabling the growth and profitability
acquisitions) specialists as cross
purchaser over the asset. of the banking sector.
border activity dominates the Indian
It is seen that the majority
deal economy.
of foreign institutional investors'
holdings are in India's biggest Capital Research and
private-sector banks. They have Management Co. based out of USA,
been growing at more than 15% is at the top of the list of foreign
in the last 10-15 years which offer investors in Indian banks by market
better growth prospects, higher value, followed by BlackRock Inc.
quality of management, bigger and Singapore's GIC Private Ltd.

32 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Chi Shiva Charan S

India’s first
Silicon Carbide device
I
ndia is poised for a technological
revolution with the inauguration On-resistance is
of its cutting-edge Silicon the total measured
Carbide (SiC) device manufacturing resistance from the VIN
plant. This milestone underscores (input voltage ) to VOUT
the nation's commitment to (output voltage) pins of
homegrown innovation, aligned the load switch. As load
with the 'Aatma Nirbhar' (self- current (ILOAD) passes
reliant) vision. through the device,
this resistance causes
Continental Device India
a voltage drop in the
Private Limited (CDIL), a
power path.
semiconductor manufacturing
leader, has invested approximately
`30 crores to establish a Surface vehicles, renewable energy
Mount Semiconductor Packaging systems and more. Its enhanced
Line at its Mohali plant in Punjab, power-handling capabilities
becoming the nation's pioneer in and efficiency have broad
SiC device production. implications across various sectors,
including electronics, energy and
SiC devices are rapidly gaining
transportation. CDIL's recent
d China leads the world recognition in the semiconductor
expansion of assembly lines will
in SiC device exports, industry due to their remarkable
increase their production capacity
with a market worth USD features. SiC's low ON resistance,
to a remarkable 600 million
374 million, followed by high-temperature, high-frequency
units annually, meeting India's
Norway, the Netherlands and high-voltage performance
growing demand and evolving
and Germany. position it as the ideal candidate
our capabilities in the global
for the next generation of low-loss
semiconductor industry.
d India ranks fifth as a semiconductors, simplifying design
India's SiC device
SiC device importer, and enhancing efficiency.
manufacturing plant launch marks
spending approximately SiC technology is a game-
a pivotal moment propelling India
USD 53 million annually changer for high-power
into a new era of self-sufficiency
on imports. applications, vital for electric
and technological advancement.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 33

 Smt Shyamala Viswanathan

Recent GI Tags
Pashmina Craft and Yak Churpi
A
dded to the list of GI tags is overseen by the Controller
in India were Pashmina General of Patents, Designs
Craft from Jammu and and Trade Marks under the
Kashmir’s Kathua district and Yak Ministry of Commerce and
Churpi from Arunachal Pradesh. Industry.
The GI tag is a type of
d Darjeeling tea became Yak Churpi
intellectual property right granted to
the first GI tagged Yak Churpi is a naturally
a product. Its primary feature is its
product in India, in uniqueness, which guards against fermented milk product prepared
2004–2005. any form of third-party misuse. It from the milk of Arunachalee yak
is valid for a period of 10 years, (unique yak breed found in West
d The top 5 states in India
following which it needs to be Kameng and Tawang districts of
which holds maximum Arunachal Pradesh).
renewed.
number of GI tags
 An excellent source of
includes Uttar Pradesh, Who issues it? proteins and is frequently used
Tamil Nadu, Karnataka,  At the International level, as a substitute for vegetables
Maharashtra, and Kerala- GI is governed by the World by tribal yak herders in the
with Tamil Nadu topping Trade Organisation's (WTO's) vegetation-starved cold and
the chart with almost 58 Agreement on Trade-Related hilly mountainous regions of
Tags. Aspects of Intellectual the state.
Property Rights (TRIPS).  Also considered an integral
d As of 2023, there are
 In India, the Geographical part of the tangible cultural
over 400 Indian products
Indication Registry in and tribal heritage of
with GI tags.
Chennai grants the GI tag. This Arunachal Pradesh.

34 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Arunachalee yak is a breed
reared by tribal yak pastoralists
known as Brokpas who migrate
along with their yaks to high
reaches - up to 10,000 ft altitude
during summers and descend to
mid-altitude mountainous regions
during winters.

Pashmina Craft
Basohli Pashmina - a hand-
spun product known for extreme
softness, fineness and light-
weight, is a more than 100-year-
old traditional craft known for its
exceptional craftsmanship from
Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua
district.
Pashmina is a fine variant
of cashmere derived from the
Changthangi goat, not by shearing
it (like all other types of wool), but
by combing the goat.
 These goats are found on the
Changthang Plateau in Tibet
and parts of Ladakh.
 The main centre for
production is Srinagar where
the spinning, weaving and
finishing of Pashmina is all
done by hand.
 Various things can be crafted
from Pashmina - like shawls,
mufflers, blankets and even
baskets.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 35

 Kum Silpa Nandakumar

National Turmeric Board

established
D
id you know that India consumption, develop new markets
holds the title for being the internationally and promote
world's largest producer, research of new products. It aims
consumer and exporter of turmeric? to take our traditional knowledge
Banking on this spice, the Central to a greater platform. The turmeric
Government has announced the growers will also be given capacity
formation of the National Turmeric and skill building assistance for
Turmeric is Board. It is aimed to focus on harnessing greater benefits.
an inevitable the development and growth of
turmeric products in the country. The Board shall have a
ingredient Turmeric is an inevitable chairperson to be appointed by the
Central Government, members
of the Indian ingredient of the Indian cuisine and
from the Ministry of AYUSH,
so, over 75 % of global turmeric
cuisine and so, production is from our country. departments of Pharmaceuticals,
Agriculture & Farmers Welfare,
over 75 % of It is majorly cultivated in Tamil
Commerce & Industry of the
Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka,
Union Government, senior state
global turmeric Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Bengal government representatives from
and Gujarat. The Board is expected
production is three states (on rotation basis), select
to aid in setting up processing national/state institutions involved
from our country. units and in the export of turmeric in research, representatives of
products. turmeric farmers and exporters, and
The Board's objective is to have a secretary to be appointed by
further increase awareness and the Department of Commerce.

36 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Smt Sarada Devi Ravutu

Sarakka Central
Tribal University
O
ne of the challenges the problem of land allocation of
The legend of Sammakka and
faced by our country is 500-600 acres.
Sarakka
regional imbalances and Finally, PM Modi announced
Sammakka, wife of Pagididda Raju, as a measure to remove these, the that the university would be
a feudal chief of the Kakatiyas who Union cabinet has approved the named after Sammakka-Sarakka
ruled the Warangal area in the setting up of the Sarakka Central – a mother-daughter duo revered
thirteenth century fought a battle Tribal University in Mulugu, a among the local tribal community.
against the local rulers in protest reserved Scheduled Tribes (ST)
against the taxes imposed on Koya assembly constituency, which has Objective
tribes. Saramma, her daughter a population of around 2.6 lakhs as The university will not only
died in the battle while Sammakka per the 2011 Census with a 75% ST improve the quality of higher
disappeared into the hills. The population of Telangana at a cost of education in the State but also
local tribals believed that she ` 889 crore. promote instructional and research
transformed into a vermillion facilities in tribal art, culture and
casket. Background traditional knowledge system for
In memory of the mother-daughter As per the Andhra Pradesh the benefit of the tribal population
duo, Mulugu hosts a biennial Reorganisation Act, 2014, both in Telangana.
festival called the Sammakka Andhra Pradesh and Telangana The decision to name the
Sarakka Jatra at a place called would get support from the Central university after them is significant,
Medaram. The festival has government to establish a tribal as it connects the institution with
among the largest gatherings university each. After overcoming local traditions and legends.
of tribal people globally.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 37

 Kum Sunita D Behera

Hi Tech Sports Training Centre

for
Divyangjan
O
n 2nd October 2023, This is a pivotal step towards
PM Modi inaugurated providing equal opportunities
the country's first high- in sports to individuals with
tech sports training centre for disabilities, fostering their talents
Divyangjan, named after former and encouraging participation in
Prime Minister Atal Bihari various sporting disciplines, thus
Vajpayee, in Gwalior, Madhya promoting sports inclusivity and
Pradesh. Dr. Virendra Kumar, accessibility for all.
Minister for Social Justice and
Empowerment, was also present on Key objectives
participation by Divyangjan
this occasion.  Establishment of a World- in sports activities, enabling
Dedicated to training and Class Centre of Excellence: them to compete effectively
nurturing para sportspersons Create an international-level at international events.
(PwDs), ‘The Atal Bihari Training centre of excellence for para
 Confidence Building and
Centre for Disability Sports’ is a sportspersons adhering to
Social Integration: Boost
state-of-the-art facility housing accessibility standards.
the confidence of Divyangjan
world-class infrastructure and  Specialized Sports and facilitate their seamless
coaching staff. Divyangjan from Infrastructure: The facility integration into society.
all over the country can train and offers rigorous and tailor-
practise at the Centre. made training. HIGHLIGHTS
 Global Standards:  A budget of `151.16 crores.
Committed to delivering  Spread over 34 acres.
training facilities that meet
or exceed international  Autonomous body under
Ministry of Social Justice
standards.
& Empowerment, Govt of
 Encouraging Participation: India.
Encourage greater

38 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Smt Anuradha V R

INDIA re-elected as
AIBD GC President
O
n 6th October 2023, India and cooperation in electronic
achieved the rare feat media policy of the Asia
of being elected as the Pacific region;
president of the Asia-Pacific  provides an Asia-Pacific
Institute for Broadcasting regional platform for
Development (AIBD) General international cooperation
Conference (GC) for the third in electronic media
consecutive time. development;
India had already served two  assists member countries in
terms from 2018 – 2021 and 2021 human resource development
– 2023. No other country has in the electronic media,
achieved this in the last 46 years!! consistent with their
The aim of AIBD AIBD was established in development needs;
is to achieve August 1977 under the auspices  assists member countries with
of the United Nations Educational, electronic media consultancy.
a vibrant Scientific and Cultural Organisation
and cohesive (UNESCO). It is a unique regional Founding Organizations
inter-governmental organisation The International
electronic media
servicing countries of the United Telecommunication Union (ITU),
environment in the Nations Economic and Social the United Nations Development
Asia Pacific region Commission for Asia and the Programme (UNDP), and
Pacific (UN-ESCAP) in the field the UNESCO are founding
through policy of electronic media development. organizations of the institute and
and resource It is hosted by the Government they are non-voting members of the
of Malaysia and the secretariat is General Conference.
development. located in Kuala Lumpur. The Asia-Pacific Broadcasting
Union (ABU) is a founding
Vision organization of the institute and is a
STRUCTURE
The aim of the institute is to non-voting member of the General
Full
26 countries achieve a vibrant and cohesive Conference.
Members
electronic media environment in the
Affiliate
67 Asia Pacific region through policy Membership
Members
and resource development. Full membership of the AIBD
50 (Asia , Pacific,
Partners Europe, Africa, Arab is confined to sovereign states
Mission and they are invited to designate
states & North America)
The Institute: the broadcasting authority of the
 encourages regional dialogue country to be the beneficiary.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 39

 Smt Gaayathiri G

Shreshta Scheme
for
SC students
T
owards enhancing education comprises two distinct approaches.
and bolstering the socio- The first category includes top
economic advancement of CBSE/State Board-affiliated
Scheduled Caste (SC) students, private residential schools known
the Ministry of Social Justice as SHRESHTA institutions. The
& Empowerment has unveiled second implementation approach
the ‘Scheme for Residential relates to existing NGO/VO-
Education for Students in High operated schools and hostels. This
Schools in Targeted Areas’ approach is specifically intended
(SHRESHTA). The primary for educational institutions up to
objective of this initiative is to the 12th grade that are managed by
extend the influence of government voluntary organizations (VOs) and
development programmes and non-governmental organizations
address service gaps in regions (NGOs).
predominantly inhabited by SC One of the core components
communities within the education of the SHRESHTA scheme is the
sector. identification and nurturing of
The scheme’s implementation outstanding SC students.

40 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

Students
who perform
To accomplish this, the criteria. Institutions with a pass
exceptionally well
National Testing Agency (NTA) rate exceeding 75% for classes
in the NETS will will conduct the National Entrance 10 and 12 over the past three
Test for SHRESHTA (NETS). This years will be among those chosen
gain admission to national-level examination will for admitting these exceptional
schools affiliated serve as a crucial selection tool, students. This criterion emphasizes
ensuring that only the best and the government’s commitment to
with CBSE/State brightest students are given the providing SC students with top-
Boards for their opportunity. quality education.

education from Students who perform This initiative aims to address

exceptionally well in the NETS educational disparities and create
Class 9 to 12. will gain admission to schools equal opportunities for students
affiliated with CBSE/State Boards belonging to the SC community.
for their education from Class 9 The government is striving to
to 12. These schools are carefully create an inclusive educational
chosen by a dedicated selection landscape that empowers SC
committee. The committee students with the tools needed to
evaluates the performance of these break the barriers and overcome
schools, ensuring they meet specific challenges.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 41

 Shri Mrithyunjay GN

Nationwide
CORS
Network Survey
I
ndia now has a world class the Survey of India, India’s oldest The most immediate use for
Precise Location based service, scientific department in charge of the data collected through the
which is capable of providing mapping our nation. It consists of CORS network is expected to be
centimetre level positioning services 1000 Continuously Operating in the aviation and meteorological
in real time, said Union Minister of Reference Stations (CORS)placed industries. The study of upper and
State Science & Technology, Dr across the country. lower atmosphere, weather patterns
Jitendra Singh at the launch of the CORS is a Global Positioning and accurate mapping changes in
National Survey Network. System reference station that wind directions are all expected
provides continuous and real- to be possible through the data
The National Survey
time positioning information for a collected.
Network (NSN) is operated by
specific area. It is made up of a GPS The Survey of Villages Abadi
receiver that is operational 24 hours and Mapping with Improvised
a day, collecting raw data from Technology in Village Areas
multiple devices. (SVAMITVA) scheme will also
The data can be used for high- greatly benefit from the high-
accuracy mapping of a particular resolution maps that can be
area, boosting navigational generated from the data obtained
capabilities, helping with through CORS.
automation of aviation, agriculture, The Nationwide CORS based
mining and construction activities services are also significant because
by providing machines that they will be made available to
operate in the sector with accurate both the public and private sector.
geographic data. This has been done to remove any
NSN has worked on setting up restrictions on the potential use of
this state-of-the-art mapping system the data obtained.
to aid with multiple government
initiatives such as the SVAMITVA The successful
project, the Smart Cities & AMRUT implementation of NSN will
Project for urban development, ensure a greater understanding
National Hydrology Project to of the unique landscape of our
harness water resources and nation allowing innovators to
multiple other infrastructural and tailor solutions specifically to
developmental projects. Indian needs, ensuring greater
innovation.

42 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Shri Bharath

The evolving Metrorail

map of India
U
RBANISATION is an encompasses the suburban rail,
index of transformation mono rail, rapid transit and the tram.
of the economy from a Let us focus on the Rapid transit
traditional rural one to a modern system that is popularly called the
industrial economy. It is not an effect Metrorail.
of industrial growth but an integral
part of the process of growth. The The evolution
growth of urban population is thus The evolution of the Metrorail
inevitable. has been on many fronts like
The urban population in India expansion of the network, policy
has increased from 286 million framework, diversified modes of
in 2001 to 498 million in 2021. In transit, technology and cost.

d MetroNeo: Rubber- percentage terms it means that in

Expansion
2001, 27.8% of our population
tyred electric coaches The first Metro in India
lived in urban areas which
powered by overhead was the Kolkata Metro.This was
increased to 35.39% in 2021. The
traction system suitable urban population is estimated to
recommended by a committee in
for smaller cities with be 675 million by 2035 (43.2%). 1919. The next proposal for this
PHPDT (Peak Hour There has to be concomitant was made in 1949-50 by B.C.Roy
Peak Direction Traffic) increase in urban infrastructure and the Chief Minister of West Bengal.
up to 8000. Project cost The master plan for this was done
civic amenities. One of the major
- estimated to be 25% of in 1971 and the foundation stone for
challenges is people transport. With
the project was laid in 1972.
the conventional Metro. heavy road congestion in almost all
our cities the only sane solution is The Metro was finally opened
d WaterMetro: Urban to improve and enhance the Rail in 1984.While this is certainly path
Mass Transit System Transit system. breaking, the timeline will put any
using inland waterways. Today Rail Transport plays a country to shame. Subsequently
Operational in Kochi vital role in intra-city transportation there was no continuity and the real
since December 2021. in the major cities of India. This break came when PM Atal Bihari
Vajpayee dedicated the Delhi Metro

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 43

 Technology and Cost
The policy lays emphasis on
standardization and indigenization
that would eventually lead to cost
reduction. The current cost of the
construction of one kilometre of
metro line is ` 407 crores. Initiatives
like Make in India have resulted in
up skilling of people and hence the
reduction in the cost. The cost of
making coaches has reduced from `
12 crores to ` 8 crores. The coaches
to the nation in 2002. The 348.12
are now designed and manufactured
km long Metro that has a ridership
in India. Coaches are also being
of about 6 million every day is the
exported. India has also attained
longest and the busiest in India.
self-sufficiency to a very large
The Metro concept and culture
extent in Rolling stock, Signalling,
gained traction since then. It would
Design and manufacture of platform
be unfair not to mention the name screen doors. NCMC-National
of E.Sreedharan who spearheaded common Mobility card, Automatic
the Delhi metro project that has Train Supervision system, iMetro –
become the bench mark for all a forum for exchange of ideas and
subsequent metro projects in India. information and knowledge sharing
No wonder he had earned the and driverless train operation are
sobriquet “Metro Man of India”. also the deliverables of this policy.
From the 3.4 km stretch in 1984,
India today has an operational Green initiatives
d Regional Rapid Transit metro network of 869 kms across Various green initiatives
System (RRTS) : A 16 cities and an under-construction have been taken by the Metro
rapid transit system network of 714 kms across 7 cities. rail ecosystem. Energy efficient
The network is estimated to be 1100 air conditioners and propulsion
connecting two cities.
kms by 2024 and 1985 kms in the systems, regenerative braking, light
The first is going to weight coaches and use of LED
be between Delhi and next 5 to 7 years. Over 40 cities will
lights and thrust on building solar
be adopting the Metro network.
Meerut. Operational power capacity are some of them.
speed -160 kmph Policy
Stations of various metros have
covering the distance been awarded with Platinum rating
The Modi government –the highest possible rating from
in less than one institutionalized a Metro Rail the Indian green building council.
hour. Expected to be Policy in 2017 to expedite and India has now experienced
operational by June smoothen the process of expansion the transformative potential of
2025. of the Metro network in the country. the metrorail system in enhancing
The policy facilitates the financial urban connectivity and alleviating
d MetroLite: A low cost viability and financing of the the congestion in our cities. It is also
Mass Rapid Transit projects, promoting Public –Private an efficient and eco-friendly mode
System designed for Partnership, mobilising capital of transportation.
cities with PHPDT up at reasonable cost and last mile “A developed country is not
to 15000. Project cost - connectivity.
a place where the poor have cars,
estimated to be 40% of it is where the rich use public
It has also resulted in
transport,” said President Gustavo
conventional Metro. diversified urban transit modes like Petro of Colombia. The India Metro
RRTS, MetroLite, MetroNeo and story will certainly validate his
WaterMetro. hypothesis.

44 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Smt Manju Aildasani

India - Srilanka
ferry service launched
T
he launch of a passenger Launching the service, PM
ferry service from Tamil Modi said connectivity is not only
Nadu’s Nagapattinam to about bringing two cities closer but
Kankesanthurai near Jaffna in “also brings our countries closer,
Sri Lanka is a truly big step for our people closer and our hearts
boosting people-to-people contacts closer.” Union Ports, Shipping and
said External Affairs Minister S. Waterways Minister Sarbananda
Jaishankar Sonowal and Tamil Nadu Public
On 14th October 2023, India Works Minister EV Velu flagged
and Sri Lanka launched a ferry off the ferry Cheriyapani from
service across the Palk Strait, nearly Nagapattinam with 50 passengers
four decades after the link between and 12 crew members.
Nagapattinam and Kankesanthurai The high-speed craft is operated
From India, was disrupted by the civil war in the by the Shipping Corporation of
travellers island nation. India and has a capacity of 150
The initiative is also aimed passengers. The distance of about
can access at bolstering bilateral ties and 60 nautical miles (110 km) will
significant boosting tourism. It is expected to be covered in approximately four
benefit local traders on both shores. hours instead of flying to Colombo
religious sites This can amplify religious tourism and then making a road trip of up to
in the coastal regions of both
in Colombo and countries. From India, travellers
10 hours.
External affairs minister
the southern can access significant religious sites
S.Jaishankar who attended the
in Colombo and the southern parts
parts of Sri of Sri Lanka. Indian pilgrim centres inauguration in virtual mode
such as Nagapattinam, Nagore, underscored the importance of
Lanka. Velankanni, Thirunallar, and temple regional cooperation. The ferry
towns such as Thanjavur, Madurai service will be discontinued during
and Tiruchirapalli are expected to the northeast monsoon and resume
see an influx of Lankan tourists. during fair weather in January 2024.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 45

 Col Shashidhar M V (Retd)

Indigenous DHRUVASTRA
Rewind
MISSILE approved the Defence Acquisition Council  Capable of engaging and
 July 2020- The successful (DAC), chaired by Raksha Mantri, destroying enemy tanks
test-firing of Dhruvastra was cleared nine capital acquisition and armoured vehicles in
a significant milestone for proposals of various weapons both direct hit mode and top
India’s indigenous missile systems and platforms, fighter jets attack mode, the missile has a
development programme. and missiles, aircraft upgrades minimum range of 500 metres
under the Make in India initiative and a maximum range of 7
 Developed by DRDO, the for approximately `45,000 crores. kilometres.
helicopter launched NAG The procurement of the Dhruvastra
missile (HELINA)- an anti-  Can be launched from an
short-range air-to-surface missile
tank guided missile (ATGM) altitude of up to 4 kilometres
as a potent indigenous precision-
was flight-tested from a and can hit targets moving at
guided weapon is one among the
static launcher positioned at speeds of up to 70 kph.
nine proposals.
Integrated Test Range (ITR)  Effective target tracking
under simulated conditions off is based on the Imaging
the coast in Orissa. Renamed Cutting Edge Features Infrared seeker (IIS)
Dhruvastra after Advanced A third generation “Lock on which guides the missile
Light helicopter (ALH) Before Launch (LOBL)” fire onto the target based on its
DHRUV. and forget ATGM, it can engage heat signature both in low
 February 2021- Joint User targets both in direct hit mode light and adverse weather
Trials for Helina (Army and top attack mode. The system conditions.
Version) and Dhruvastra has all-weather day and night
Dhruvastra is a noteworthy
(Air Force Version) Missile capability and can defeat battle
achievement for India’s self-
Systems was carried out tanks with conventional armour
reliance in the field of missile
from ALH platform in desert as well as with explosive reactive
technology and defence equipment
ranges. armour with its special penetrating
as it enhances the combat prowess
warhead. It is one of the most-
Approval by DAC of the Army and IAF against enemy
advanced anti-tank weapons in the
tanks and armoured vehicles.
On 15th September 2023, world.

46 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Col Shashidhar M V (Retd)

Super High
Altitude Firing
Ranges in
Arunachal
Pradesh Rewind 1,129-km-long LAC with China's
 India - China face-off in June Tibet Autonomous Region and the
2020 in Galwan valley, Ladakh notification to hand over the two
(J&K) with severe casualties on ranges at Kamrala and Mandala,
both sides. each located above 10,000 feet, to
 Chinese troops incursion into the Armed Forces was approved
Yangtse (Tawang sector) in under the personal initiative of
Dec 2022 resulted in injuries to Chief Minister Khandu.
troops on both sides.
Implications
 An integrated surveillance and
firepower training exercise The two firing ranges will
‘Buland Bharat’ was carried be highly advantageous for the
out at Mandala on 23 May rd armed forces as troops deployed
while firing exercises will soon in high-altitude strategic locations
commence at Kamrala. in Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh,
 The armed forces carried out Uttarakhand, Sikkim & Arunachal
an integrated surveillance and Pradesh can test their firepower and
firepower training exercise to get acclimatised.
test "simulated war conditions
Besides, synergised application
in high altitude areas during this
of surveillance and firepower
exercise.
Chinese troops In a strategic move with long
capabilities of the infantry, artillery
radars and weapon systems, air
incursion term implications two super high
resources in close coordination
altitude firing ranges were made
into Yangtse available to the armed forces for the with special forces, aviation and
practice of various kinds of weapons Central Armed Police Forces can be
(Tawang sector) and surveillance equipment in practised and validated.
in December Arunachal Pradesh within an aerial Handling of artillery weapon
distance of 50 kilometres from the systems, firing of infantry
2022 resulted highly sensitive Line of Actual
weapons and missiles, surveillance
Control.
in injuries to equipment requires training at high
altitude and for which facilities
troops on both Super high altitude firing
will soon be available to troops for
ranges
sides. Arunachal Pradesh shares a
the first time in the northeast.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 47

 Col Shashidhar M V (Retd)

B rah
rahMM os - ER
Supersonic missiles
tested
News Update The BrahMos supersonic cruise
The IAF and the Army missile was first tested on 12th June
recently test fired four Brahmos-ER 2001 off Chandipur at sea in Odisha.
(extended range) supersonic surface It has since been upgraded many
to surface missiles on 9th October times across various platforms viz
2023 near the eastern seaboard sea (including submarine), land and
archipelago of Andaman & Nicobar. air.
The missiles successfully Special Features
hit their targets with precision
achieving the mission objectives.  Stealth Technology
These can strike both land and sea  Advanced guidance system
targets at maximum ranges of 400-  High Target Accuracy
500 kms. (irrespective of weather
conditions)
What is BrahMos?
 Constant supersonic speed
The BrahMos is a ramjet
 Operates on ‘Fire and Forget’
supersonic cruise missile of a
principle
short range developed by DRDO
 One of the heaviest missiles,
and the Russian Federation’s NPO
weighing up to 2.5 tonnes, it
Mashinostroyeniya (NPOM). It
is the world’s fastest anti-ship
is named after two major rivers of
cruise missile in operation.
India and Russia: Brahmaputra and
 Can attain a speed of MACH
Moskva.
2.8 to MACH 3 with likely
An intergovernmental upgrades up to MACH 5
agreement signed in 1998 between (Hypersonic).
India and Russia led to the
formation of BrahMos Aerospace.  With a carrying capacity of
BrahMos Aerospace is a joint 250-300 kgs, this missile
venture between the DRDO and is capable of carrying both
NPOM. The technology used in regular and nuclear warheads.
this joint venture is based on the The manufacture of BrahMos
Russian P-800 Oniks cruise missile missiles is soon to commence from
and similar sea-skimming cruise Lucknow under the “Uttar Pradesh
missiles from Russia. Defence Industrial Corridor" from
March 2024.

48 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Col Shashidhar M V (Retd)

First LCA trainer

for IAF
S
tate-run aircraft manufacturer generation aircraft capabilities with
Hindustan Aeronautics features like
Limited (HAL) recently  Relaxed static stability
delivered the first trainer version of
 Advanced glass cockpit
the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)
Tejas to the Indian Air Force (IAF).  Quadruplex fly-by-wire flight
control and use of advanced
It has the capabilities to support
composite materials.
the roles of both training and fighter
requirements of IAF.  Integrated digital avionics
d Launched in 1983, system.
The Tejas trainer aircraft
LCA Tejas programme is part of an earlier order for 40
was aimed to design Mk-1 jets, which includes both the Hawk is a British single-
and produce an Initial Operational Clearance engine, jet-powered
agile, technologically (IOC) and the more advanced advanced trainer
advanced fighter aircraft Final Operational Clearance aircraft, earlier known
with state-of-the-art (FOC) configurations. Out of these as the Hawker Siddeley
Hawk, and subsequently
systems by collaborating 40 aircraft, the IAF has already
inducted 32 single-seater jets and produced by its
the expertise of
established two LCA squadrons. successor companies,
various Indian defence British Aerospace and
The remaining eight aircraft are
organizations. BAE Systems. It has
trainers.
It is the largest R&D been used in a training
d This twin-seater LCA
capacity and as a low-
programme ever boasts state-of-the-art design
cost combat aircraft.
undertaken in India. and technology, embodying 4.5

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 49

 Smt Vanaja Shankar Financial Literacy

Investment in

Gold
S
hravan and Gita, with their Gold Monetisation scheme
grandpa were making a list It is a government scheme
of items to be purchased intended to mobilise the idle gold
for Diwali. The children had lying in households, institutions,
volunteered to plan and organise corporates and temple trusts of the
the festivities within the allotted country and facilitate its use for
budget. productive purposes, and in the long
Gita: “Let’s go to the shopping run, to reduce country's reliance on
mall.” the import of gold.
Mom looked up from her Gita: “Where should we
newspaper. “That reminds me. I take our gold jewellery for
monetisation?”
The gold need to visit the bank locker and
take out some jewels. Gita, you too Grandpa: “Banks offer
monetization can wear my gold jewellery. That’ll this scheme on behalf of central
scheme accepts go with any ethnic dress.” government. Customers can visit
the designated branches, fill the
Dad shook his head. “I don’t
a minimum think it is safe to go around wearing
application form mentioning the
quantity of gold in terms of the
deposit of 10 gold. We hear so many stories about
number of grams to be deposited.”
chain snatchers in this locality.”
grams of raw “So can we take out the
Mom argued. “What’s the use
gold in the form of gold jewellery if we cannot wear
jewellery from locker and give it
to the bank? Will they keep the
of a bar, coin them?”
jewellery intact? Can we take it
or jewellery. Dad turned to grandpa. “How back any time?” Mom asked.
about going for gold monetisation Grandpa shook his head. “The
There is no scheme?” procedure is different. First you
maximum limit of The children looked up with cannot do this at all bank branches.
curiosity. “Grandpa, what’s that?” Only a few branches in each city
investment under will be designated for this scheme.
Grandpa explained.
this scheme. You have to visit that branch.

50 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 “Yes. The interest is paid in
INR. It is calculated on the value of
gold on the date of deposit.
At the time of maturity,
the depositor has the option for
repayment as gold coins or bars. If
you opt for INR, you will receive
money equivalent to the value
of deposited gold on the date of
redemption.”
Shravan exclaimed, “If the
price of gold has increased in 12
years, then we’ll be able to get a
good return and make a profit.”
Grandpa nodded. “Yes. So,
Secondly, after you submit the you get the benefit of appreciation
 Deposit Quantity:
form to the bank branch, you’ll be in value of gold, without having to
 Minimum: At any one
asked to visit their Collection and store the gold in your locker.”
time shall be 10 grams of raw
Purity Testing Centre for testing gold (bars, coins, jewellery Mom shook her head. “I don’t
the purity and quality of your gold. excluding stones and other want my jewels to be melted.”
The gold that you give will metals) Dad said, “Then don’t buy any
be melted at the centre. You will  Maximum: No Limit new gold jewellery for Diwali.”
be given a receipt for the quantity  Purity: 995 fineness Gita asked grandpa. “What are
and quality of gold that you have the other schemes to invest in gold
 Schemes:
surrendered. without storing physical gold?”
 Medium Term Government
In thirty days, customers will Grandpa replied, “There are
Deposit (MTGD)
receive a gold deposit certificate two other options. Sovereign gold
by courier. Gold deposits are  Long Term Government
bonds (SGB) and gold exchange
accepted by banks on behalf of the Deposit (LTGD)
traded funds. Let’s discuss
Central Government and deposit  Medium Term Government sovereign gold bonds now.”
receipt and certificates are issued on Deposit (MTGD):
behalf of the Central Government.”  Period of 5 - 7 years Sovereign Gold Bonds
 ROI: 2.25% p.a. SGBs are government securities
Benefits of gold monetization denominated in grams of gold. They
scheme of a customer  Lock in Period - 3 years
are substitutes for holding physical
 Opportunity to earn interest  Long Term Government gold. Investors have to pay the issue
on the idle gold lying in their Deposit (LTGD): price in cash and the bonds will be
locker/ house/ trust.  Period of 12 - 15 years redeemed in cash on maturity. The
 Save on locker charges  ROI: 2.50% p.a. Bond is issued by Reserve Bank of
presently used for storing India on behalf of GOI.
 Lock in Period: 5 years
gold.
“Is there no short-term deposit The children had lots of
 On maturity, option to receive questions. Grandpa showed them
the deposit in the form of gold option?”
Short term deposit scheme of 1 the details on the RBI website.
or cash.
to 3 years can be offered by banks. “Where can we buy these
Gita: “How much gold can we
The interest rate can also be decided bonds?”
deposit grandpa? And when will we
by banks. However, many banks RBI has authorised banks, post
get it back?”
don’t offer this. offices and institutions like Stock
Grandpa:"Here are the details
of the scheme" “Do we get interest on the gold Holding Corporation of India to
deposited?” offer the bonds to customers.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 51

 We can also buy the bonds Interest will be credited semi- gold. On maturity customers
online from the website of the annually to the bank account of the will get the market value of
authorised banks. investor and the last interest will be gold on the date of redemption.
“How much can we invest in payable on maturity along with the  Customers also get 2.5% per
these bonds? principal. annum interest on the gold
How will we get the money deposited.
The minimum investment
value is one gram of gold. back on maturity?  The gold bonds can be traded
The interest for the last half on the stock exchange.
The maximum investment in a year and the value of gold in INR  Capital gains received on
year is 4 kg of gold for individuals, will be credited to the customer’s the redemption of bonds is
4 kg for Hindu Undivided family bank account on the maturity date. exempt from tax.
and 20 kg for Trusts. The value of gold will be
“Can we surrender our gold to calculated based on the average Both the schemes offer
get these bonds?” of the closing price of gold for the the advantage of enjoying the
preceding three days. appreciation in gold price without
No. You have to pay Indian having to worry about the safety of
rupees to buy these bonds. What is the benefit for the
the physical gold. In addition, both
customer who invests in sovereign
What will be the price of 1 gm the schemes offer interest on the
gold bonds?
of gold bond? investment.
 Instead of physical gold
The bonds are usually offered which requires safe keeping, Grandpa: “Have you
for a particular period – the opening the bonds offer opportunity understood the difference between
date and closing date of the issue to invest in gold without the two schemes of investment in
are published. The issue price for worrying about safety. gold?”
one gram of gold is fixed based on Shravan and Gita tabulated
 Customers can get the benefit their points.
the average closing price of 1 gm of appreciation in value of
of gold of 999 purity for the three
preceding business days.
Gold
If an investor pays online for Scheme Sovereign gold
particulars monetization
the bond, he will get a discount of bonds
scheme
fifty rupees per gram of gold.
What is the period of the Surrender gold at the
Pay cash {upto
deposit? designated bank’s
` 20,000} or pay by
Method of purity testing centre.
The bond is issued for a period cheque or online. The
investment Gold certificate is
of 8 years. bonds can be held in
issued for the value
What is the rate of interest and demat form online.
of gold deposited.
how will the interest be paid?
The bonds bear interest at the Minimum
10 gm of raw gold 1 gm of gold
rate of 2.50 % (fixed rate) per annum investment
on the amount of initial investment.
Maximum 4 kg per annum for
No limit
investment individual investors

2.25 % for medium

Interest rate term 2.5 %
2.5 % for long term

INR value of gold

Can be redeemed as on the date of
gold or INR value of redemption {average
Redemption
gold on the date of of closing price of
redemption. gold for preceding
three business days}.

52 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Kum Deepasri Law in Focus

Judicial perspective on
Amendments to the
Constitution - IV
Facts of the case Reforms Act into the Ninth Schedule Decision of the supreme

T
his case was in relation to of the Constitution, which meant court
the land reforms introduced that it could not be challenged in a This judgment in the case
in Kerala in the 1950s court. which saw the longest constitutional
and 1960s, which were aimed Sri Kesavananda Bharati filed a hearing and the largest constitutional
at redistributing land from large petition challenging the validity of bench in India, laid down several
landowners to landless and poor these amendments. principles that have become the
people. The Kerala Land Reforms bedrock of constitutional law in
Act, 1963 and the Land Reforms
Legal issues India. These include the principles
1. Constitutional validity of of the rule of law, separation of
Amendment Act, 1969 were passed,
the Kerala Land Reforms powers, and the independence of
which placed a limit on the amount
Act and the constitutional the judiciary.
of land a person could hold. Further,
amendments. The Court, by a 7:6 majority,
excess land from landowners could
be acquired and distributed to 2. Extent and limits of the held that the Constitution has
landless persons. Parliament’s power to amend a basic structure that cannot be
In 1970, the Kerala Government the Constitution. altered even by a constitutional
imposed restrictions on the Contentions of the parties amendment. The court held that
ownership of land held by religious The petitioner contended the Parliament’s amending power
institutions. Sri Kesavananda that the Kerala Land Reforms Act under Article 368 is not unlimited
Bharati, the Head of the Edneer violated his fundamental right to and that the basic structure of the
Mutt in Kerala, challenged the property and that the Parliament’s Constitution, including aspects such
constitutionality of this Act power to amend the Constitution as democracy, federalism and the
before the Kerala High Court. In was not unlimited. The petitioner rule of law, cannot be taken away by
the meantime, the Parliament submitted that certain fundamental way of constitutional amendments.
of India passed the Constitution features of the Constitution were This doctrine has created a
(Twenty-Fourth Amendment) Act, beyond the scope of amendment. check on the power of the Parliament
1971, which sought to exclude The State of Kerala, which was to amend the Constitution and
constitutional amendments from the respondent, contended that the has ensured that the Constitution
the ambit of Article 13 and limit the Act was a reasonable restriction remains dynamic over time,
scope of judicial review. Further, on the right to property and was while preserving its fundamental
the Constitution (Twenty-Fifth aimed at promoting social justice principles. The Kesavananda
Amendment) Act, 1971 granted and reducing poverty. There were Bharati case has therefore played a
wider powers to the government in also certain intervenors in this profound role in the constitutional
relation to acquisition of land from case, who submitted contentions landscape of India, making it one
land owners, and the Constitution supporting the petitioner’s view or of the most significant in Indian
(Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Act, the respondent’s view. constitutional law.
1972 inserted the Kerala Land

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 53

 Smt Uthra Dorairajan

Asima Chatterjee
(23.09.1917 – 22.11.2006)
The first woman Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar awardee

W
hen you want to take woman student out of three admitted
an untrodden path, be in the Chemistry department of
ready to face criticism. Scottish Church College, Calcutta,
Because many of those nay-sayers obtained Bengal Government
did not dare to try that. A few of them Scholarship, Nawab Latiff and
may even be our family members, Father LaFont Scholarships
forgive them because they are your of the University of Calcutta,
well-wishers who are engulfed by Hemprova Bose Memorial Medal
fear. Remember your problems will and graduated with honours in
be unusual because your choice is chemistry in 1936 with Basanti Das
unusual. Be courageous, prepare Gold Medal.
In 1961, Asima yourself for those challenges Her father Indiranarayan
and focus on your path”, was the Mukherjee, a doctor by profession
Chatterjee message that Kamala Devi passed and mother Kamala encouraged
received the on to her young daughter Asima. both their children in their scholastic
Asima had completed pursuits. Asima probably imbibed
Shanti Swarup interest in medicinal plants from her
matriculation exam securing
Bhatnagar Award Bengal Government scholarship father, which led her to be a pioneer
and ISC Examination from Bethune in the natural products chemistry
in chemical College and was planning to pursue and medicinal chemistry of our
science, bachelor's degree. At that time country.
nobody was clear on what one can Her younger brother Sarashi
becoming the do with a chemistry degree, but one Ranjan Mookerjee, later became
first female thing her parents could understand a renowned surgeon. They both
was the importance of modern were also successful collaborators
recipient of this education evolving then and on their research on medicinal
award. their daughter’s interest in higher plants of India. Both later became
education. the recipients of Shanti Swaroop
With their encouragement, Bhatnagar award, probably the
Asima Mukerjee joined as the only only siblings who got this most

54 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

prestigious award of our country for She is the first woman to obtain research. She kept up the morale
scientific research. D.Sc. degree from our country’s of her students through her own
University and soon was appointed dedication. She gained reputation
During her post-graduate
as an honorary lecturer. In 1945, as a teacher of rare distinction and
studies, she was inspired by the
Asima married Dr.Baradananda a unique research guide. She was
doyens of Indian Science like
Chatterjee, a well-known physical the first woman scientist to adorn
Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray
chemist who was an authority on a chair of any University in India
(father of Indian chemistry),
soil science and corrosion. by becoming the Khaira Professor
Prafulla Chandra Mitter (the first
of Chemistry in 1962.
Sir Kashbehari Ghosh Professor His constant inspiration,
of Chemistry), Pulin Behari encouragement and co-operation She became the Head of
Sarkar (who set up book banks in helped her to dedicate herself to the Department of Chemistry,
Ramakrishna Mission institutions), the cause of science. Especially University of Calcutta in 1969.
Jagendra Chandra Bardhan ( the first when Asima was awarded the Under her dynamic leadership and
Sir PC Ray Fellow) and Dr.Prafulla coveted Watumull fellowship to foresight, the department earned
Kumar Bose. Here, her interest do her research in the USA, the an international reputation as a
in understanding the chemistry support and belief he showed leading centre for teaching and
of natural products from Indian about her work is exemplary. This research in Chemistry. In her entire
medicinal plants grew immensely. helped her to pursue research in career spanning six decades, she
foreign land, taking her eleven- supervised 59 Ph.D. and 3 D.Sc.
She obtained her M.Sc degree
month-old daughter along with her. students and published 328 research
in 1938 with organic chemistry as
Ramakrishna-Vivekananda Centres papers and a number of review
a special paper and received the
in the USA gave her the necessary articles.
University of Calcutta silver medal
support system to raise her child The use of medicinal plants
and Jogrnaya Devi Gold Medal.
while pursuing research there. and herbs to treat diseases under
Soon Asima started her research
work under the guidance of Ayurvedic system is prevalent in
She worked with Prof.LM
Dr.Prafulla Kumar Bose, one of the India. Her research activity was to
Parks, University of Wisconsin
pioneer natural product chemists identify the ‘active principles’ in
on naturally occurring glycosides
of our land. To help her sustain the herbs that are responsible for
during 1947-1948, later with
research, Acharya P.C.Ray created the molecule’s biological activities.
Prof.L.Zechmeister, California
a fellowship for her (amounting to In those days when sophisticated
Institute of Technology on
` 75 then) out of his salary which he instrumentation facilities were
carotenoids and provitamin
used to donate to the University of sparse, isolation and purification of
A. Dr.Chatterjee worked with
Calcutta every month. Mukherjee such active components from herbs
Prof.P.Karrer, at University of
received the Nagarjuna Prize and was an onerous task because they
Zurich during 1949-1950 on
gold medal of the University of are present in minute amounts.
biologically active indole alkaloids,
Calcutta (1940) for the best piece which became her life-long interest. It required sound chemical
of research work carried out in the knowledge combined with
Department of Chemistry. Soon she After her return to India in extraordinary experimentation
joined Lady Brabourne College as 1950, Dr.Asima continued her skills. Her pioneering work on
the founder head of the Chemistry research on alkaloids and coumarins the alkaloids of Rauwolfia, Vinca,
Department. She continued her in Indian medicinal plants. She Alstonia, Rhazya and Kopsia
research, despite the difficult had rejoined her service at Lady made an immense impact on the
situation that World war created Brabourne College and Honorary research that followed in the field
especially for scientists. In 1944, Lecturer at University of Calcutta. of indole alkaloids both in India
University of Calcutta awarded her In those days scholarships were and abroad. Along with her scores
D.Sc. degree on the merit of her rare and financial assistance most of research students and research
research contributions on naturally inadequate. Those were indeed associates, she made significant
occurring indole alkaloids and hard days for any teacher and contributions in diverse classes of
coumarins. frustrating for students who pursued natural products, on structural and
mechanistic organic chemistry.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 55

 Her studies have opened up a
new chapter in indole chemistry.
Besides her keen interest
in fundamental research, Prof.
Chatterjee always stressed on the
application of phytochemicals from
indigenous plants as drugs and drug-
intermediates. She investigated
the chemical and pharmacological
properties of betel leaves, brahmi
herb used in folk medicine for
memory enhancement and cognitive
improvement.
She successfully developed the
anti-epileptic drug from Marsilia
minuta (a water fern). It is now
being used as a highly successful
rehabilitation drug in combination
with Nardostachys jatamansi under
the code-name Ayush 56. The anti-
malarial drug, Ayush 64, which is
a combination of different parts
of four herbs, Alstonia scholaris,
Swrrtia chirata, Picrorphiza kurroa
and Ceasalpinna crista is yet
another successful drug. Know-
how for the manufacture of both
these drugs has been handed over to
the National Development Council,
Government of India. chemistry for secondary school She was well-versed in Sanskrit
She was passionately devoted to students in Bengali. She edited which enabled her to understand the
the ideals of Shri Ramakrishna and Bharater Bonousadhi, a treatise original texts on Ayurveda for her
Holy Mother Sarada and had ardent in Bengali on Indian medicinal research. Her students reverentially
faith in the philosophy of Swami plants in six volumes. She authored called her 'Master' and her younger
Vivekananda. It was possibly this and edited six volumes of The contemporaries affectionately
selfless devotion which convinced Treatise on Indian Medicinal addressed her as 'Didi' and many
her to not accept any royalties for Plants published by CSIR. Our others called her 'Ma'.
the development of drugs, and government honoured her with She was elected Fellow
books written or for accepting fees Padma Bhushan in 1975. Though of the Indian National Science
from BPCL, Kolkata for the still awards came recognising her Academy and the Indian Academy
"well-known legal battle" of 1968 untiring work, a true karma yogi of Sciences. She was a nominated
in the Calcutta High Court. She as she was and she believed in member of the Upper House of
toiled to establish the Regional carrying out her duties and her Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and
Research Institute for carrying out responsibilities without aspiring for served as General President of the
research on Indian medicinal plants the results and rewards. Indian Science Congress. She had
for the development of Ayurvedic Prof. Asima was steeped in made herself adorable to all her
drugs for systematic clinical trials. Indian culture. She received training students and acquaintances. "I wish
On the request of in classical music Dhrupad and to work as long as I live" was her
Prof.S.N.Bose, she wrote Saral Khayal and continued her interest philosophy ; a work culture that she
Madhyamic Rasayan, a book on in music. followed in letter and spirit!

56 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Dr Preethy S P
Living Naturally

Home remedies for

Dengue
D
engue (Pronounced as typically have milder cases. Rare
DENG-gey) fever is a complications include dengue
mosquito-borne illness hemorrhagic fever with symptoms
occuring in tropical and subtropical like high temperature, bleeding from
areas of the world. the mouth and nostrils, enlargement
of the liver and circulatory system
Symptoms failure. If the symptoms worsen,
There is  Sudden, high fever there might be severe bleeding,
no specific  Severe headaches shock and even death termed
as Dengue shock syndrome
medicine to  Pain behind the eyes
(DSS). Persons who have already
treat dengue  Severe joint and muscle pain contracted dengue or who have
 Fatigue had a second or subsequent illness
infection. are more susceptible to dengue
 Nausea
Treatment is hemorrhagic fever.
 Vomiting
symptomatic.  Skin rash, which appears two Treatment
to five days after the onset of There is no specific medicine
One should fever to treat dengue infection. Treatment
also consult At times, minor symptoms is symptomatic. One should also
may be misdiagnosed as the flu or consult the doctor, get lots of rest
the doctor, get and drink a lot of water. If one starts
another viral infection. Compared
lots of rest and to older children and adults, feeling worse in the first 24 hours
younger children and those who after fever goes down, they should
drink a lot of have never had the virus previously get to a hospital immediately to be
water. checked for complications.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 57

 Natural mosquito repellants raising the platelet count. Two short
1. Garlic Water stems of giloy plant can be boiled
in a glass of water. Drink this water
Crush a few cloves of garlic
while it is still warm.
and boil them in water. Spray the
solution around your room. 2. Papaya leaf juice
2. Lemongrass Papaya leaf juice is an excellent
treatment to raise platelet count. For
Use lemongrass oil or crush the optimal effects, one can drink a tiny
leaves and apply the oily mixture amount of papaya leaf juice twice a
directly to the skin. day.
3. Lemon and cloves 3. Fenugreek seeds
Take a lemon slice, insert some Soak fenugreek seeds in a cup
cloves in it and place it in a room. of hot water. Allow the water to
cool down and drink it twice a day.
4. Camphor
4. Tulsi -ginger decoction
Burn some camphor in the
Take 3-4 tulsi leaves. Wash it
room and close all doors and
and then boil it in a saucepan by
windows and leave it burning for adding a glass of water. Once it
about 20 minutes. boils, add a little piece of ginger.
5. Coconut oil and neem oil Drink this juice a number of times
A combination of coconut oil through the recovery period to
and neem oil works as a natural regain energy.
repellent. You just need to mix 5. Turmeric-black pepper milk
coconut oil and neem oil together It being an antiseptic and a
well with water and spray it on your metabolism booster, many doctors
skin. also recommend the consumption
of turmeric and a pinch of powdered
Home remedies for dengue black pepper with milk. This helps
Prevention
in faster recovery.
The best way to prevent the 1. Giloy juice
One well-known treatment 6. Tender coconut water
disease is to prevent bites by
infected mosquitoes. This involves for dengue fever is giloy juice. Drinking tender coconut water
Giloy juice increases immunity and at least twice a day during dengue
protecting oneself and making
can replenish the body’s water, help
efforts to keep the mosquito speeds your metabolism. It relieves
the body cool down, detoxify and
population down. the patient's symptoms and aids in
stop bleeding.

58 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Smt Vaishnavi V
Curiosity
Logic and Reasoning Corner
1. Look at this series: 12, 11, 13, 12, 14, 13, …
What number should come next? Logic and Reasoning
10 16 13 15

2. Which word does not belong with the others?

WING FIN BEAK RUDDER
3. Melt : Liquid : Freeze :
ICE SOLID CONDENSE PUSH

4. A river flows west to east and on the way turns left and goes in a
semi-circle round a hillock, and then turns left at right angles. In
which direction is the river finally flowing?
WEST EAST NORTH SOUTH

5. A man fell in a 50m deep pit. He climbs 4 metres up and slips 3

metres down in one hour. How many hours would it take for him to
come out of the pit?
47 50 24 20

Story Puzzle 1 : Story Puzzle 2:

There are 4 persons (A, B, C and D) who A lady bought an item of ₹100 from the
want to cross a bridge in the night. Shopkeeper (A). She paid him through a
♦ A takes 1 minute to cross the bridge. ₹500 note. Realizing that he did not have
♦ B takes 2 minutes to cross the bridge. change, the shopkeeper (C) got change
♦ C takes 5 minutes to cross the bridge. for that note from another shopkeeper (B)
♦ D takes 8 minutes to cross the bridge. and paid ₹ 400 to the lady.
There is only one torch with them and the After a few days, shopkeeper (B) realized
bridge cannot be crossed without the torch. that the note is fake, and he railed at the
There cannot be more than two persons on shopkeeper (A) and took ₹500 note back
the bridge at any time, and when two people from him. In this whole process how much
cross the bridge together, they must move money did (A) lose in the end?
at the slower person’s pace.How can they
cross the bridge in the shortest duration?
Answers on page 61
NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 59
 Smt Ramamani N

PARAM VEER VANDANA

an introduction
P
aram Veer Chakra is a It is said that the great Indra An honorarium of Rs. 10,000/-
prestigious Indian military used it as the Amogha Astra per month is given to all recipients.
award given to a person who (unfailing weapon) to kill Vitra, the So far, the award has been
has shown extraordinary bravery, demon of drought and to release given to many brave individuals
self-sacrifice or valour in the face of life-giving waters for the benefit of posthumously, who had laid down
the enemy, on land, sea or air. humankind. The Puranic literature their lives for the cause of the
says that this Vajra was made out
motherland, Bharat. They were
About the award of the Asthis (bones) of Dadhici,
mostly young and middle-aged
a sage of high attainments, for the
If a recipient of the Chakra benefit of the world. men, belonging to all communities
performs an act of bravery that and religions.
would have warranted a Bar to be Who would be awarded?
attached to the ribbon and by which The list of the Param Veer
Officers, men and women of all
the Chakra is suspended, then an Awardees is as under:
Army, Navy and Air Force ranks, as
additional Bar will be awarded for well as any of the Reserve Forces, 1. Major Somnath Sharma
every such act. These Bars may also Territorial Army Militia and any (Posthumous) (1947)
be awarded posthumously. other lawfully constituted Armed 2. Naik Jadunath Singh
A replica of the ‘Indra’s Vajra’ Forces. (Posthumous) (1948)
will be added to the ribbon for every Matrons, sisters, nurses and
3. Second Lt. Rama Raghoba
Bar awarded. The design of the the staff of the Nursing Services
Rane (1948)
award has been carefully made. The and other Services pertaining to
hospitals and nursing, and civilians 4. CHM Piru Singh
thunderbolt or Vajra, is the motif
serving regularly or temporarily (Posthumous) (1948)
for the Param Veer Chakra, and it
under the orders, directions or 5. L/Naik Karam Singh
was chosen for its mythological
supervision of any of the above- (1948)
significance.
mentioned Forces.

60 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 6. Capt Gurbachan Singh 11. Lt Col AB Tarapore 17. Major R Parameswaran
Salaria (Posthumous) (1961) (posthumous) (1965) (Posthumous) (1987)
7. Major Dhan Singh Thapa 12. Naik Albert Ekka 18. Lt Manoj Kumar Pandey
(1962) (posthumous) (1971) (Posthumous) (1999)
19. Grenadier Yogender Singh
8. Subedar Joginder Singh 13. Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon
Yadav (1999)
(Posthumous) (1962) (1971)
20. Rifleman Sanjeev Kumar
9. Major Shaitan Singh 14 2nd Lt Arun Khetrapal (1999)
(Posthumous) (1962) (Posthumous) (1971) 21. Capt Vikram Batra
15. Major Hoshiar Singh (1971) (Posthumous) (1999)
10. CQMH Abdul Hameed
(Posthumous) (1965) 16. Bana Singh (1987)
Answers
1. 15. This is an alternating number hour, he climbs full (46 + 4) 50m
of subtraction series. First, 1 is and after that, he will not slip as he of page 59
subtracted, then 2 is added. is already out of the pit. Hence the
answer is 47 hours. ♦ A and B cross the bridge again, and
2. 
Beak. Rest are parts of an
it will take them 2 minutes (as B is
aeroplane. 5. East
the faster one).
3. Solid Story Puzzle 1: Quickest solution ♦ In total, they will spend 2 + 1 + 8 + 2
4. 47 hours. In the first hour, he ♦ A and B cross the bridge first. It will + 2 = 15 minutes to cross the bridge.
climbs 4m up and slips 3m down, take them 2 minutes, as A is the
Story Puzzle 2 : ₹ 500
therefore he only climbs 1m up faster one.
The lady came with a counterfeit
totally. In the second hour, again ♦ A goes back with the torch (it will ₹ 500 note which has no value. The lady
he climbs 1m up, so the total take him 1 minute). took the item worth ₹ 100 and received
distance climbed is 2m till the ♦ C and D cross the bridge together. the change ₹ 400 from shopkeeper
second hour. Therefore, the man As D is the slowest, it will take them (A). Thus shopkeeper(A) lost ₹500.
climbs 1m every hour. As per the 8 minutes. Another shopkeeper(B) gave ₹500
pattern, in the 46th hour, he must ♦ B goes back with the torch (it will to shopkeeper (A) and took back the
have climbed 46m. So, in the 47th take him 2 minutes). same amount, hence no loss for him.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 61

 Smt Ramamani N

M S SWAMINATHAN
a tribute
M
ankombu Sambasivan  Acting Deputy Chairman
Swaminathan, who and later Member (Science
passed away on 28th and Agriculture), Planning
September 2023, was a prominent
The Green Commission (1980-82)
figure in India's agricultural sector.  Director General, International
Revolution Dr. Swaminathan was born in Rice Research Institute, the
Kumbakonam, Tamilnadu in 1925.
spearheaded by Throughout his distinguished career,
Philippines (1982-88)
In 2004, he became
him significantly Swaminathan held various key roles
the chairman of the National
across different departments.
boosted food Commission for Farmers,
established to address the issues
grain production, Eminent positions held by
of the farmers. He established
MSS
especially  Director of the Indian
the MS Swaminathan Research
Foundation (MSSRF) in Taramani,
wheat and rice, Agricultural Research
Chennai.
Institute (1961-72)
in developing  Director General of ICAR and The Green Revolution
spearheaded by him significantly
nations by Secretary to the Government
boosted food grain production,
of India Department of
introducing new, Agricultural Research and
especially wheat and rice, in
developing nations by introducing
high-yielding Education (1972-79)
new, high-yielding variety seeds.
variety seeds.  Principal Secretary, Ministry Dr Swaminathan also enhanced
of Agriculture (1979-80) crop productivity by transferring

62 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

genes for fertilizer response and farming and the active participation farmers. The success of the Green
collaborating with Norman Borlaug of women in agriculture. He Revolution wasn't limited to wheat
(American Agronomist) to develop also led the International Rice alone; scientists like G.S. Khush
high-yielding dwarf wheat varieties Research Institute (IRRI) with and V. Rama Chandra Rao also
suited for Indian conditions. visionary leadership, contributing developed rice varieties such as
He also raised awareness about to advancements in rice cultivation, IR36, IR64, Swarna, and Samba
the significance of sustainable including innovations in C4 carbon Mahsuri. This is a story of how one
agriculture, genetics and initiated fixation and the development of man's leadership transformed the
programmes like "lab to land," high-yielding Basmati rice varieties. agricultural landscape of a country
promoting the practical application and made a lasting impact on the
of research in agricultural practices. MSS played a central role in world.
India's Green Revolution, which
Dr Swaminathan advocated made the country self-sufficient in Accolades
fair minimum support prices of food production and a major player  First World Food Prize in
crops, supporting the agricultural in global agriculture. His vision and 1987
community and emphasising leadership were instrumental in the
 Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan,
nutrition, biofortification, increased widespread adoption of Mexican Padma Vibhushan
funding for agriculture, precision wheat varieties by smallholder
 HK Firodia Award
 Lal Bahadur Shastri National
Award
 The Indira Gandhi Prize
 Ramon Magsaysay Award
(1971)
 Albert Einstein World Science
Award (1986).

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 63

 Smt Archana Sundar Know your Padma Awardee

Risingbor Kurkalang
A journey of craftsmanship and
cultural preservation
H
ailing from Laitkyrhong, prestigious Vadya Darshan event
Meghalaya, Risingbor organized by the Sangeet Natak
Kurkalang, born in 1978, Akademi in 2002 and participated
rose to prominence as a master in the 2nd Thoh Shun International
craftsman and folk musician. His Art Camp in 2006 in Cherrapunjee.
path, which began in a farming In 2010, Risingbor took part
family, ultimately led to the in the International Festival on
esteemed Padma Shri award.Guided Inter-Cultural Dialogue between
by his grandfather, he mastered the North East India & South East
art of creating traditional musical Asia, expanding his influence. A
instruments, thus contributing to crowning achievement was his
the preservation of Meghalaya's composition and performance of
rich heritage. the song 'Mei Mariang,' featured in
In 2001, Risingbor embarked on the album 'Sai-thainki Sur' by the
a pioneering venture, commencing Khasi-Cymru collective, released in
commercial production of these 2021 on Naxos World.
traditional instruments. He achieved Risingbor's reputation
the distinction of being the first transcended borders when he
person in his village to do so, thus received an invitation from Welsh
making a significant contribution to musician Gareth Bonello to perform
the preservation and sharing of the at the Rajasthan International Folk
Khasi cultural heritage. Festival (RIFF) in Jodhpur in 2022,
In 1990, Risingbor's pivotal a testament to the universal appeal
moment arrived when local of his music.
traditional musicians invited His dedication did not go
him to record at All India Radio unnoticed. In 2008, he was
and Doordarshan Kendra. This recognized with a Certificate
experience catalyzed his dual career of Appreciation for his active
as a musician and instrument maker. participation in the Meghalaya
He tirelessly preserved Khasi government's workshop on
folk traditions and showcased his traditional musical instrument-
musical talent and handcrafted making. The pinnacle of recognition
instruments across India. arrived in 2021 when he was
Participation in exhibitions honoured with INTACH's Martand
and workshops, including the Singh Memorial Award, a cash
Government of Meghalaya's prize of ` 1 lakh in the Handicraft
traditional music and instrument- Category, presented by the Indian
making workshop, further honed National Trust for Art and Cultural
his skills. He was featured at the Heritage (INTACH) in New Delhi.

64 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

 Kum Shrivaishnavi R Historical Wonder

MIRJAN FORT
T
he next time you find yourself The high towers and balconies Her forte was the spice
in Gokarna in Karnataka, offer excellent points to enjoy the business, for which she earned
wanting to immerse yourself lush scenery around the fort. The the name “Raina-da-Pimenta” or
in a different historical experience, fort used to have four entrances, “Pepper Queen” by the Portuguese.
visiting the Mirjan Fort is an out of which only one is functional The fort was strategic not
unmissable recommendation. Just now. There are also many moats only for military purposes but also
a short drive from Gokarna or the for defence and wells to sustain the served as a refuge for artisans and
town of Kumta, this place is steeped population inside and around the refugees. The fort, owing to its wells
in marvels of architecture and fort. and settlement like construction,
history. functioned as an ideal place to
The story of the origins of the
house these refugees, and helped
Mirjan Fort sits on the banks fort is truly marvellous and inspiring
during attacks from enemy lines as
of the river Aghnashini in Northern – starting with one brave and clever well.
Karnataka. The fort boasts of wide queen. The personality in question
The reign of Rani Chenna
bastions, high ceilings, canals, is Rani Chenna Bhairadevi, of the
Bhairadevi ended due to deceit
secret passages and much more. Saluva Dynasty who ruled Uttara from her neighbouring chieftains,
Truly an architect’s dream and also Kannada in the 16th century for over and she died a military prisoner.
practical, it has been built using 50 years. She was a sharp-witted But stories of her prosperous
laterite, which was supposed to and able ruler. The commercial empire, shrewdness and bravery
have been the most abundant locally sector of her kingdom flourished, are still alive, thanks to this fort
available construction material, and so did the cultural, art and in Karnataka, which tells history
back in the days when it was built in religious aspects. to those of us unaware of such a
the 16th century. persona.

NOVEMBER 2023 PRAJYA 65

 Smt Ghana Saraswathy M Spotlight of the month

Sabita Mahato
Scaling the pinnacle
I
n the heart of Ladakh's
challenging terrain, Sabita
Mahato, a native of Bihar, has
etched her name in the annals of
adventure sports. Sabita, a seasoned
mountaineer and cyclist, achieved
an incredible feat by conquering
Umling La Pass, the world's
highest motorable road, perched at
an astonishing 19,300 feet above
sea level.
Umling La Pass, nestled in
Ladakh's breathtaking landscapes,
has always been a magnet for
adventurers. Sabita Mahato's
remarkable journey stands as
a testament to her unwavering
determination, making her an
inspiration for thrill-seekers and
mountaineers worldwide.
Sabita Mahato's pursuit of
Umling La Pass was a result of
years of dedication and training. and determination, pushing herself individuals to accomplish the
Her passion for adventure and pedal by pedal towards her goal. extraordinary. Her story serves as
the mountains began at a young a reminder that in adventure sports,
Sabita's accomplishment is
age, and over time, she honed her no goal is too audacious and no
not just a personal victory; it is
obstacle is intractable. Her legacy as
skills as a mountaineer and cyclist. a symbol of adventurous spirit
a mountaineer and cyclist continues
Her physical and mental strength, and the boundless potential of to inspire others to push their limits
combined with her love for the individuals to overcome adversity. and reach for their dreams, just as
outdoors, made her the perfect Her journey is an inspiration, she did when conquering the highest
candidate for this formidable especially to women, proving that motorable road in the world.
challenge. with dedication and determination,
As Sabita returns from her
The expedition was arduous, no peak is insurmountable.
extraordinary journey, she leaves
with extreme weather conditions Sabita Mahato's triumph in behind a message that resonates far
and unforgiving terrain. Sabita conquering Umling La Pass is beyond the mountains of Ladakh:
encountered freezing temperatures, a source of pride for her home with unwavering focus and grit,
strong winds and low oxygen state, Bihar. Her achievement is any challenge can be overcome
levels during her ascent. She a testament to the courage and and any dream can become a
displayed remarkable resilience determination that can drive reality.

66 PRAJYA NOVEMBER 2023

World
RIVERS
September 24th Day

Rivers are our lifelines!

Save them !
International Day of

Rural
Women
October 15th
The day was established to acknowledge the vital
contributions of rural women to their communities
and the global economy and celebrate the critical
role that they play in agriculture, food production
and rural development.