UPSC CSE 2025 GS Mentorship Program EKAM
- 1. Daily Current Affairs: 29TH August 2024 ISRO'S HUMANOID SKULL TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is developing a humanoid robot named Vyomitra to accompany its upcoming Gaganyaan mission. The design of Vyomitra's skull, a crucial component of the robot, is a testament to ISRO's technological prowess. The Design of Vyomitra's Skull: Material: The skull is made of AlSi10Mg, an aluminium alloy known for its strength, flexibility, heat resistance, and lightweight properties. This alloy is commonly used in automotive engines and aerospace components. Structural Integrity: The skull is designed to withstand the extreme vibrations experienced during a rocket launch. It has a yield strength of over 220 MegaPascals, ensuring its durability. Dimensions and Weight: The humanoid skull measures 200mm x 200mm and weighs only 800 grams, making it lightweight and compact. Manufacturing Technique: The skull was created using Additive Manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing. This technique allows for the easy incorporation of lattice structures, which help reduce the overall weight of the product. The Role of Vyomitra in Gaganyaan: Technology Demonstration: The Vyomitra mission will serve as a technology demonstration to evaluate the performance of humanoid robots in space. Autonomous Operations: Vyomitra will be capable of performing tasks autonomously, such as operating the crew console, monitoring systems, and communicating with ground control. Humanoid-Robot Interaction: The mission will also explore the potential of human-robot interaction in space, paving the way for future crewed missions. ABOUT GAGANYAAN MISSION: Gaganyaan is India's human spaceflight mission developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The mission will include three flights: two unmanned and one manned mission. The manned flight will carry three astronauts, including a woman, in the Orbital Module to orbit Earth at an altitude of 300-400 km for 5-7 days. Payload Details: The Orbital Module will consist of: Crew Module: The spacecraft designed to carry astronauts. Service Module: Powered by two liquid propellant engines, providing necessary support. It will have emergency escape systems and mission abort capabilities for crew safety. Launch Vehicle: Gaganyaan will be launched using the GSLV Mk III, also known as LVM-3, which is a three- stage heavy lift launch vehicle capable of carrying the required payload to orbit.
- 2. Astronaut Training in Russia: In collaboration with Glavkosmos, Russia, ISRO signed an agreement in 2019 for astronaut training. Training includes understanding Soyuz spacecraft systems and simulating weightlessness aboard the Il-76MDK aircraft. Significance of the Mission: Scientific Advancement: Enhances the level of science and technology in India and inspires the youth. Industrial Growth: Involves multiple agencies, industries, and disciplines, contributing to economic development. Technological Development: Aids in the creation of technology with social benefits and promotes international collaboration. Regional Focus: Addresses regional needs like food, water, and energy security, potentially contributing to a regional space ecosystem. India's Other Upcoming Space Projects: Chandrayaan-3 Mission: An upcoming mission to the moon, likely to launch soon. Shukrayaan Mission: A proposed mission to explore Venus, under planning by ISRO. Conclusion: ISRO's development of Vyomitra's humanoid skull showcases India's growing expertise in robotics and space technology. The successful completion of the Gaganyaan mission will not only demonstrate India's technological capabilities but also contribute to global advancements in human- robot interaction and space exploration. Multiple Choice Question: Q. With reference to the Gaganyaan Mission by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), consider the following statements: 1. Gaganyaan will have two manned flights and one unmanned flight to space. 2. The mission will use the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk III (GSLV Mk III), also known as LVM-3, as the launch vehicle. 3. The mission includes collaboration with international space agencies for astronaut training. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2, and 3 ANSWER: B EXPLANATION: Gaganyaan will have two unmanned flights and one manned flight. The GSLV Mk III (LVM-3) will be the launch vehicle for the Gaganyaan Mission. The mission includes collaboration with Russia for astronaut training. SILENT DEMOCRATIC BACKLASH IN SOUTH ASIA
- 3. TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: THE HINDU Recent political developments in South Asia, especially in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, point towards a democratic backlash. This phenomenon highlights the reclaiming of democratic space by social forces against authoritarian tendencies in these countries. India: Shift Towards Authoritarianism India, historically a model of functional democracy, has witnessed a shift since 2014 with the rise of the BJP under Narendra Modi. The governance model has increasingly leaned towards executive overreach, undermining the separation of powers. Political narratives have shifted to promote an Opposition-free democracy, symbolized by the ‘Congress-mukt Bharat’ campaign. Universities are being used to propagate ideologies countering democratic dissent. Pakistan: Struggle Against Military Dominance Pakistan’s history is marked by military dominance, with several dictatorships overthrown by mass protests. Post-2008, Pakistan transitioned towards democracy but still faces challenges from military influence in politics. Recent elections show tactical alliances between political elites and the military, which have led to a backlash from a politically conscious citizenry. The PTI’s criticism of the military’s role in politics resonates with the public, revealing contradictions within the political system. Conclusion Both India and Pakistan show signs of democratic backsliding. However, increased public awareness and digital platforms are emerging as tools to counter authoritarianism, signaling a potential democratic revival. SHARPENING INDIA’S ANTI-TUBERCULOSIS FIGHT TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: THE HINDU Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health challenge in India, bearing over a quarter of the global TB burden. Despite progress in diagnosing cases and political commitment towards TB elimination, innovative strategies and new technologies are essential to enhance the effectiveness of the fight against TB. Adopting Shorter Regimens for Drug-Resistant TB Current drug-resistant TB regimens are lengthy (9-24 months) with high pill burdens (4-14 tablets daily) and severe side effects like hearing loss and psychosis. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended shorter, safer regimens like BPaL/M, requiring only 3-4 tablets daily for 6 months, with higher success rates (89%) compared to older regimens (68%). Nearly 80 countries have adopted BPaL/M, with reported cost savings of up to 90% and potential global savings of $740 million annually.
- 4. Expanding access to BPaL/M for all eligible patients in India is crucial for effective TB management. Enhancing TB Diagnosis and Screening Accurate and rapid diagnosis is key to leveraging new treatments; therefore, efficient screening methods must be employed. Utilising health data, including GIS mapping, can identify vulnerable groups like those with comorbidities, former COVID-19 patients, and high-risk communities. Recent evidence shows many TB patients lack typical symptoms; chest X-rays can detect 42.6% of otherwise missed cases. Portable X-ray machines with AI tools and rapid molecular tests over microscopy can accelerate diagnosis and drug resistance profiling, especially in remote areas. TRENDS IN TB CASES AND DEATHS: Increasing Private Sector Reporting: The number of TB cases reported by the private sector has risen dramatically. Stable Incidence and Mortality: TB incidence has increased slightly, while deaths have remained relatively stable. Treatment Initiation Success: India has achieved its target of initiating treatment in 95% of diagnosed patients. Challenges in Meeting Elimination Goals: Risk Factors: Undernourishment, HIV, diabetes, alcohol, and tobacco use are significant risk factors for TB. Limited Access to Healthcare: Many vulnerable populations lack access to quality healthcare, hindering TB diagnosis and treatment. Drug Resistance: The emergence of drug-resistant TB strains, such as MDR-TB and XDR-TB, poses a major challenge. Overview of Tuberculosis: Definition: TB is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Transmission: TB spreads through airborne droplets. Symptoms: Common symptoms include cough, chest pain, weight loss, and fever. Global Burden: TB is a leading cause of death globally, with India bearing a significant burden. Conclusion To eliminate TB, India must prioritise shorter regimens, innovative diagnostics, and targeted screening. These steps are essential investments in a TB-free future, ensuring better health outcomes for all citizens. Multiple Choice Question: Q. Consider the following statements regarding Tuberculosis (TB): 1. TB is caused by a virus and primarily affects the lungs. 2. Multidrug-resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB) does not respond to the two most powerful, first- line anti-TB drugs. 3. People with HIV are at a higher risk of developing TB compared to the general population.
- 5. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 3 only D. 1, 2, and 3 ANSWER: B EXPLANATION: Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a bacterium, not a virus. Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) does not respond to isoniazid and rifampicin, the two most powerful, first-line anti-TB drugs. People living with HIV have a 20-times higher risk of developing TB compared to the general population due to a weakened immune system. ESTABLISHING A CARBON MARKET IN INDIA TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU The shift towards carbon markets in India reflects a strategic move to balance economic development with climate goals. India's approach involves transitioning from energy efficiency targets to a structured emissions trading system, aligning with its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. PAT Scheme vs. Emissions Trading: Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) Scheme: A regulatory tool focused on reducing specific energy consumption in energy-intensive industries. Allows industries to trade excess energy savings as certificates. Does not set absolute energy use limits, only targets energy efficiency. Emissions Trading (Cap-and-Trade): A market-based approach where industries are given emission caps. Focuses on absolute emission reductions, providing economic incentives for reducing pollutants. India’s Efforts in Climate Mitigation: India has actively participated in international climate initiatives like the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) under the Kyoto Protocol. Launched PAT in 2012 as part of its National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency. Iron and steel industries, major carbon emitters, are under focus for transitioning to low- emission pathways. Proposed Carbon Market Framework: Voluntary Market (Phase I): Supported by a domestic offset scheme where entities can earn carbon credits.
- 6. Compliance Market (Phase II): Mandates regulated entities to participate in carbon credit trading. Full implementation, including emission measurement updates, is targeted for 2026. Challenges and Strategic Approach: Unlike the European Union’s Emissions Trading System (ETS), India's carbon market approach will accommodate its developmental priorities. Emphasis is on voluntary participation, with the flexibility to evolve into a mandatory system over time. ENERGY CONSERVATION (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2022 The Energy Conservation (Amendment) Bill, 2022 aims to establish a carbon credits trading mechanism in India to enhance efforts in reducing carbon emissions. It represents a shift towards market-based tools to meet climate goals and enhance energy efficiency. Key Features of the Bill Empowering the Centre: The Bill allows the Central Government to define and regulate a carbon credits trading scheme. Carbon credit certificates will be issued to compliant companies or individuals, which can be traded voluntarily. Trading Mechanism Unclear: The Bill does not specify the method for trading carbon credits (e.g., cap-and-trade or alternative methods). Ambiguity exists regarding the regulatory authority and ministry responsible, with the Ministry of Power tabling the Bill rather than the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC). Overlap with Existing Certificates: The Bill lacks clarity on the interchangeability of existing certificates like Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) and Energy Savings Certificates (ESCs) with the proposed carbon credit certificates. Carbon Markets Overview Definition and Function: Carbon markets are systems to price carbon emissions, allowing trading of carbon credits to incentivize emission reductions. Industrial units exceeding emission standards can sell credits, while those struggling to meet standards can buy these credits to comply. Types of Carbon Markets: Compliance Markets: Regulated at national or regional levels, often using a ‘cap-and-trade’ system. Example: The European Union’s Emissions Trading System (ETS), which sets caps for emissions across various sectors.
- 7. Voluntary Markets: Participants buy credits voluntarily to offset emissions.Credits are generated by activities like afforestation and verified by private firms. Challenges in Carbon Markets Lack of Transparency: Issues like double counting of emission reductions and the authenticity of climate projects undermine market credibility. Risk of Greenwashing: Companies may buy credits to offset emissions without making actual reductions or investing in clean technologies. Potential for Increased Net Emissions: Emissions Trading Systems (ETS) may not always prioritize cost-effective mitigation projects, potentially leading to an overall increase in emissions. Conclusion: India’s evolving carbon market strategy underscores the need to balance socioeconomic development with climate mitigation efforts. The approach focuses on creating a system tailored to national needs, contributing to global climate goals while addressing domestic growth imperatives. Multiple Choice Question: Q. Which of the following statements regarding carbon trading mechanisms discussed at the Paris Climate Summit is/are correct? 1. Carbon trading mechanisms, as outlined in Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, allow countries to trade carbon credits to meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for emission reductions. 2. The Paris Climate Summit established the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) as a global standard for carbon markets. 3. Voluntary carbon markets enable companies to purchase carbon credits to offset their emissions, often through projects like reforestation and renewable energy. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only B. 2 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2, and 3 ANSWER: C EXPLANATION: The Paris Agreement lets countries trade carbon credits to meet their climate targets. The EU ETS was set up in 2005, before the Paris Climate Summit. Voluntary markets let companies offset their emissions by buying credits from projects like reforestation. NORTHERN BALD IBIS TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: DOWN TO EARTH
- 8. The Northern Bald Ibis (Geronticus eremita) was once widespread across Central Europe, North Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. By the 17th century, the species became extinct in Central Europe due to excessive hunting. The population in Central Europe has been revived from zero to nearly 300 since 2002, changing the species' conservation status from "Critically Endangered" to "Endangered." Conservation Status and Historical Distribution Scientific Name: Geronticus eremita Current Status: Endangered (previously Critically Endangered) Historical Range: Originally found across Central Europe, North Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula, the species disappeared from Central Europe in the 17th century due to overhunting. Physical Characteristics Appearance: The Northern Bald Ibis is distinguished by its black feathers with an iridescent green sheen and a bald red head marked with black. Beak and Legs: The bird has a long, downward-curved red beak and red legs, which contrast with its dark plumage. Both males and females share these characteristics, showing no significant difference in appearance. Diet and Habitat Diet: The species primarily feeds on insect larvae, earthworms, and other invertebrates, using its long beak to search the ground by touch. Preferred Habitats: These birds favor open areas with short vegetation, such as meadows, pastures, and even sports fields. Although their bald head is reminiscent of vultures, they do not scavenge. Social and Breeding Behavior Social Structure: Northern Bald Ibises are social creatures, historically forming large colonies with many birds. They engage in ritualistic greetings involving crest-spreading and bowing, which often triggers a similar response from others in the group. Monogamy: Typically, they are seasonally monogamous, with breeding pairs often changing each year. However, some pairs may stay together for multiple seasons.
- 9. Breeding: These birds prefer nesting on steep rock faces, where they lay up to four greenish eggs. The incubation period begins with the first egg, leading to staggered hatching times. Nestling Development: Young birds take 42-50 days to fledge and initially follow their parents before joining juvenile groups. Migration routes are learned by following experienced birds during the fall migration. TROPICAL CYCLONES TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY – SOURCE: TIMES OF INDIA A tropical cyclone is a powerful and destructive weather system that forms over warm ocean waters near the equator. It is characterized by strong winds, heavy rain, and a calm center known as the "eye." Formation and Characteristics Formation: Tropical cyclones develop when warm, moist air rises from the ocean surface, creating a low-pressure area. Surrounding high-pressure air moves in, warms up, rises, and cools, forming clouds. The system intensifies as it draws energy from the ocean's heat, with wind speeds increasing and an eye forming at the center. Calm Center: The cyclone’s center, or eye, is usually calm with low air pressure. Wind Speed: The average wind speed in a tropical cyclone is around 120 km/h. Closed Isobars: These cyclones have closed isobars, indicating high wind velocities. Movement and Classification Movement: Tropical cyclones generally move from east to west, guided by trade winds and are seasonal. Classification: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) classifies cyclones based on wind speeds: Depression: 31–49 km/h
- 10. Deep Depression: 50-61 km/h Cyclonic Storm: 62–88 km/h Severe Cyclonic Storm: 89-117 km/h Very Severe Cyclonic Storm: 118-166 km/h Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm: 166-221 km/h Super Cyclonic Storm: Above 222 km/h Naming of Tropical Cyclones Tropical cyclones are named by regional bodies, with the WMO/ESCAP Panel on Tropical Cyclones responsible for naming them in the Indian Ocean region. QUASARS TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: THE HINDU Quasars are among the most powerful and luminous objects in the universe. They are a type of active galactic nucleus (AGN), which is a highly active region at the center of some galaxies. About Quasars Definition: A quasar is an extremely energetic and bright AGN, powered by a supermassive black hole at the center of a galaxy. AGN vs Quasar: While all quasars are AGNs, not all AGNs are classified as quasars. Quasars are the most luminous form of AGNs. Discovery: Quasars were first discovered in 1963, initially observed as star-like objects that emitted strong radio waves. The term "quasar" is short for "quasi-stellar radio source." Energy Emission: Quasars are potent sources of X-rays and visible light, making them some of the brightest and most vibrant objects observed in the universe. Formation of Quasars
- 11. High-Density Regions: Quasars are believed to form in areas of the universe where the density of matter is significantly higher than average. Active Galaxies: Quasars are found in galaxies with an active supermassive black hole that is rapidly consuming matter. Accretion Disk: As matter spirals into the black hole, it forms an accretion disk. The material closest to the black hole orbits at incredible speeds, creating friction and heat. Shear Forces and Heat: The inner parts of the disk rotate faster than the outer parts, generating shear forces that heat the gas clouds to millions of degrees, causing them to shine brightly. Jet Emission: Some of the heated material is expelled away from the black hole in the form of luminous, magnetically collimated jets, contributing to the quasar's brightness. Significance and Observation Brightness: Quasars are so luminous that they can outshine all the stars in their host galaxy. This extreme brightness allows quasars to be observed from billions of light-years away. Distance: Most quasars have been discovered at vast distances, providing insights into the early universe and the evolution of galaxies. GEOGLYPHS TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY– SOURCE: THE HINDU Geoglyphs are large-scale designs or patterns created on the earth's surface, often difficult to recognize from the ground but easily visible from the air. Key Features of Geoglyphs Formation: Geoglyphs are created using durable materials like stones, gravel, or earth, and typically extend over several meters. Visibility: These designs are best observed from an aerial view due to their large size and intricate patterns. Types of Geoglyphs:
- 12. Positive Geoglyphs: Formed by arranging materials on the ground, similar to petroforms, which are outlines made using boulders. Negative Geoglyphs: Created by removing portions of the natural ground to expose different textures or colors, similar to petroglyphs. Arborglyphs: A variation that involves planting trees or plants in a specific pattern, with the design becoming visible as the plants grow over time. Chalk Giants: These are figures carved into hillsides, exposing the underlying bedrock, often referred to as "chalk giants." Examples of Famous Geoglyphs Nasca Lines: Located in Peru, these are among the most famous geoglyphs, depicting various animals and shapes. Uffington White Horse and Cerne Giant: These are well-known geoglyphs carved into the hillsides of southern England, representing a horse and a human figure, respectively.