500 Most Probable Topics- List 9

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1. ISRO’s X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XpoSat) Launch

Launch Announcement: ISRO has launched XpoSat, its first X-ray Polarimeter Satellite, to study X-ray polarization from cosmic sources like Black Holes, Neutron Stars, and Magnetars.
Launch Vehicle: The satellite was launched aboard the PSLV-C58 rocket into Low Earth Orbit.

XpoSat Mission Details

Purpose: XPoSat aims to analyze X-ray polarization in the medium X-ray band, enhancing understanding of the radiation mechanisms and geometry of celestial sources.
Significance: The mission is pivotal for grasping the physics of celestial bodies.
Payloads:
- POLIX: Designed to observe around 40 bright astronomical sources.
- XSPECT: Focuses on studying the electromagnetic spectrum emitted by various forms of matter.

Development and Global Context

Development: XPoSat was developed by ISRO’s UR Rao Satellite Centre and Raman Research Institute in Bengaluru, with project initiation in 2008 and formal agreement with ISRO in 2015.
Global Standing: XPoSat is the world’s second dedicated mission to medium X-ray band X-ray polarization, following NASA’s IXPE mission launched in 2021.
Space-based Observatories: XPoSat represents India’s third space-based observatory, succeeding the solar mission Aditya-L1 and AstroSat.

2. Aditya L1

Click Here to Read on Aditya L1

3. Chandrayaan 3

Click Here to Read on Chandrayaan 3

4. Miyawaki Plantation Method:

Origin: Named after Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki. Developed in the 1970s to increase greenery in small areas.
Methodology: Involves dense planting of 2-4 different types of indigenous trees per square meter, aiming for rapid growth to full size within 3 years.
Maintenance: Trees are mostly self-sustaining, requiring minimal regular care such as manuring and watering.
Significance:
- Enhances local air quality by absorbing dust particles.
- Helps in regulating surface temperature.
- Utilizes indigenous plants like Anjan, Amla, Bel, Arjun, and Gunj.
- Fosters biodiversity and ecosystem development, improving soil fertility.

5. Electronic Soil and Its Role in Enhancing Hydroponics:

Why in News: Researchers at Linköping University, Sweden, developed ‘Electronic Soil’ (eSoil) to expedite plant growth in hydroponic setups.
About Electronic Soil:
- eSoil is a conductive cultivation substrate designed for hydroponics, composed of cellulose and PEDOT (Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)).
- It uses low-power electrical currents to stimulate plant root systems, contrasting traditional non-biodegradable substrates.
Significance:
- Offers reduced energy consumption and safer operations compared to high-voltage systems.
- Demonstrated a 50% increase in barley seedling growth rate in hydroponic systems.
Hydroponics:
- Soilless plant cultivation in a water-based, nutrient-rich solution.
- Uses inert mediums like perlite, rockwool, or clay pellets to support the root system.
- Ensures direct contact of roots with the nutrient solution and oxygen for optimal growth.

6. Cellular Agriculture: A Sustainable Approach to Animal Products

Cellular agriculture is an innovative method for producing animal-based products like meat, dairy, and seafood directly from cell cultures, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional animal farming.
Methods:
- Cell Cultivation: Involves harvesting stem cells from animals in a non-invasive manner, cultivating these cells in bioreactors with nutrients to grow muscle tissue, which forms the basis of cultivated meat.
- Precision Fermentation: Utilizes microorganisms such as yeast to create animal product analogs (e.g., milk and egg-white proteins) through fermentation, a process already familiar in food production for making enzymes and various additives.

7. Global Biofuels Alliance:

- It is an India-led Initiative to develop an alliance of Governments, International organisations and Industry to facilitate the adoption of biofuels.
- A total of 19 countries and 12 international organisations have so far agreed to join the alliance, including both G20 members and non-member countries.
- India, Brazil and the US is the founding members of the alliance.
- This Alliance will be aimed at facilitating cooperation and intensifying the use of sustainable biofuels, including in the transportation sector.
Objectives:
- Encourage cooperation and boost sustainable biofuel usage, especially in transportation.
- Focus on market strengthening, promoting global biofuel trade, sharing policy insights, and providing technical support for national biofuel programs.
- Aims to make biofuels a crucial part of the energy transition, boosting job creation and economic growth.

International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts 3.5-5x biofuels growth by 2050 due to Net Zero targets, presenting a significant opportunity for India.
Major biofuel producers and consumers: the USA (52%), Brazil (30%), and India (3%) dominate production and consumption (about 85% and 81%, respectively).

8. G20 Adopts Chennai High-Level Principles for Blue Economy:

Context: At the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group meeting in Chennai, Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced the adoption of the “Chennai High-Level Principles” for a sustainable and resilient blue economy.
Principles Overview:
- Serve as a global framework for transitioning to a sustainable and resilient blue economy.
- Aim to conserve ocean biodiversity and address climate change impacts on ocean-based economies.
Blue Economy: Advocates for the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving ocean ecosystem health.
Key Focus Areas:
- Addressing coastal and marine pollution from plastics, air pollutants, and other persistent pollutants, including maritime sector contributions.
- Recognizing ocean-climate interlinkages, with emphasis on climate change mitigation and adaptation through sustainable ocean actions.
- Promoting social and intergenerational equity and gender equality in blue economy planning, decision-making, and economic opportunities.
Outcome: The principles aim to protect marine biodiversity and tackle climate change issues like sea level rise and ocean acidification, marking significant progress in ocean conservation.

9. Perovskite: A Material for Next-Generation Solar Cells

Perovskites are a versatile class of materials with a crystal structure similar to calcium titanium oxide (CaTiO3), offering properties like superconductivity and magnetoresistance.
Crystal Structure: Characterized by a three-dimensional arrangement with the formula ABX3, where “A” and “B” are cations and “X” is an anion.
Discovery: Named after Russian mineralogist Lev Perovski, discovered in the Ural Mountains by Gustav Rose in 1839.
Flexibility: Compositional adaptability allows for a wide range of physical, optical, and electrical properties, including insulating, semiconducting, and superconducting.
Optical Properties: Renowned for efficient light absorption and emission across visible to near-infrared wavelengths, making them ideal for solar cells and light-emitting devices.
Applications: Utilized in sensors, catalyst electrodes, fuel cells, lasers, memory devices, spintronics, and notably in solar cells, where synthetic perovskites are seen as cost-effective materials for high-efficiency photovoltaics.

10. ICRISAT Joins One CGIAR Integrated Partnership:

Integration: The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) has become part of the One CGIAR consortium, which includes the CGIAR System Organization and 12 research centers.
Objective: The partnership aims to collectively enhance food, land, and water systems in response to the climate crisis, leveraging unified research and development efforts.
About CGIAR:
- Established in 1971 by Forrest F. Hill.
- A global network of agri-food systems research centers focused on reducing rural poverty, enhancing food security, improving nutrition and health, and fostering sustainable natural resource management.

11. UNU-EHS Report on Interconnected Disaster Risks:

Report: The UN University Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) released the ‘Interconnected Disaster Risks Report 2023’, focusing on six critical risk tipping points and a framework for risk mitigation.
Six Risk Tipping Points:
1. Ecosystem Collapse due to accelerating extinctions.
2. Food Supply Risks from groundwater depletion.
3. Melting Mountain Glaciers.
4. Space Debris endangering satellites.
5. Unbearable Heat affecting habitability.
6. Uninsurable Future due to escalating risks.
Risk Tipping Point Definition: A stage where socioecological systems can’t buffer risks, leading to significant catastrophic impacts.
Groundwater Withdrawal Example: 70% used for agriculture, with over half of the world’s major aquifers depleting faster than replenishment rates, threatening food production and drinking water for over 2 billion people.
Mitigation Framework:

- Avoid: Targeting root causes to prevent reaching tipping points.
- Adapt: Preparing for and addressing negative impacts of unavoidable tipping points.
- Actions:
  - Delay: Working within current systems to slow progression towards tipping points.
  - Transform: Reimagining systems for sustainability.

Solutions Example:

- Avoid-Transform: Reducing GHG emissions to tackle unbearable heat.
- Adapt-Delay: Installing air conditioners as a short-term measure against heat.

12. Glacial Lake Outburst Flood in Sikkim:

Event: Sikkim experienced a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) from South Lhonak Lake, situated at an altitude of 17,000 feet, due to continuous rainfall.
Impact: The outburst led to flooding in the Teesta River, affecting four districts (Mangan, Gangtok, Pakyong, Namchi) and breaching the Chungthang Hydro-Dam.
About GLOF:
- Occurs when water held behind a glacier or moraine is suddenly released.
- Triggered by factors like earthquakes, heavy rains, and ice avalanches.
- Particularly devastating due to rapid water release, with the Himalayan region being highly vulnerable.
Climate Change Influence: Accelerated glacier melting in the Sikkim Himalayas has formed over 300 glacial lakes, with ten identified as high-risk for GLOFs.
South Lhonak Lake Susceptibility:
- Known to be expanding due to glacier melt.
- 2011 earthquake and other seismic activities increased GLOF risks.
- A 2016 initiative led by Sonam Wangchuk involved using HDPE pipes to drain excess water, reducing the lake’s volume by about 50%.
Recent Tragedy: Believed to be triggered by an avalanche, highlighting the ongoing risks and complexities associated with managing glacial lake outburst floods.

13. Recent Earthquake Swarm in Reykjanes Peninsula, Iceland:

Event: Over 5,500 small earthquakes struck the Reykjanes peninsula in southwest Iceland within three days, indicative of a seismic swarm.
About Earthquake Swarms:
- Characterized by numerous low-intensity earthquakes without a main shock, occurring over weeks in geothermally active regions.
- Caused by the release of built-up seismic energy in small bursts.
Causes of Swarm Sequences:
- Fluid Movement: In volcanic areas, swarms can be triggered by fluids from deeper magma or active geothermal systems, causing fault slips.
- Active Volcanism: Magma movement can drive swarms by creating earthquakes as magma-filled cracks advance through the crust.
- Slow-Slip Events: These are slow-motion earthquakes involving gradual movement along faults, often observed in subduction zones like Hikurangi.
Reykjanes Peninsula Features:
- Noted for vast lava fields, active volcanoes, and significant geothermal activity.
- Located along the Mid-Atlantic Rift, marking the boundary where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates diverge.

14. Rat Hole Mining:

Application: Rat Hole Mining technique was employed for rescuing workers in the Uttarkashi Tunnel Collapse.
Methodology: Characterized by the digging of narrow pits into the ground, sized just enough for an individual to descend and extract coal, predominantly used in Meghalaya due to the region’s thin coal seams.
Banning Status:
- Banned by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in 2014 due to its unscientific nature and risks to worker safety.
- In 2019, the Supreme Court clarified that mining under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act and the Mineral Concession Rules, 1960, would not fall under the NGT ban.
Issues:
- Leads to significant soil erosion.
- Contributes to water pollution.
- Poor ventilation poses severe health risks to workers.
- Often involves child labor due to the small size of the tunnels.

15. Marine Heatwave Impact on Northwest India’s Rainfall:

Event: An intense Marine Heatwave in the northern Bay of Bengal since 28th June 2023 has contributed to unusual extreme rainfall in India’s typically arid northwest.
About Marine Heatwaves:
- Extended periods of significantly higher Sea Surface Temperatures (SST).
- Can cause ecological impacts like coral bleaching, destruction of seagrass, and loss of kelp forests, negatively affecting fisheries.
- Driven by factors such as ocean currents, air-sea heat flux, and atmospheric conditions. Climate phenomena like El Niño can also influence marine heatwave patterns.
Impact on Rainfall:
- The heatwave led to elevated sea surface temperatures, increasing evaporation rates and atmospheric moisture, resulting in higher-than-normal rainfall in northwest India.
- Altered the formation and dynamics of depressions in the Bay of Bengal, potentially increasing their frequency and intensity, especially over short timescales (3-10 days).
- Affected the movement patterns of depressions, directing them more towards northwest India and contributing to the region’s excessive rainfall.

16. Atlantification

Research Insights on Arctic Ocean Sea-Ice Loss Trends:

Study Focus: Investigating the reasons behind the stagnation in Arctic Ocean sea-ice loss since 2007, highlighting the role of the Arctic dipole and Atlantification.
Key Findings:
- The study, supported by the U.S. National Science Foundation and led by Igor Polyakov from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, explores multidisciplinary impacts on the Arctic due to climate change.
- The Arctic dipole, an atmospheric feature, follows an approximately 15-year cycle, influencing sea-ice trends. The current cycle is nearing its end, suggesting imminent changes.
Arctic Dipole’s Influence:
- In its current “positive” state since 2007, the Arctic dipole creates specific wind patterns that affect ocean currents, air temperatures, and sea-ice dynamics.
- These patterns have contributed to the observed pause in sea-ice loss by regulating oceanic inflows from the Atlantic, particularly through the Fram Strait and into the Barents Sea.
Atlantification:
- Refers to the influence of North Atlantic water on the Arctic Ocean climate, a significant factor in the region’s climate system and sea-ice conditions.
- This process has been linked to shifts in marine ecosystems and could favor sub-Arctic boreal species in the eastern Eurasian Basin.
Implications and Future Outlook:
- The “switchgear mechanism” associated with the Arctic dipole cycles plays a crucial role in controlling the inflow of sub-Arctic waters, with significant ecological impacts.
- With the potential imminent reversal of the Arctic dipole cycle, scientists anticipate stronger declines in sea ice and broader climatological repercussions across the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions.

17. Gravity Hole/ Indian Ocean Geoid Low

According to researchers from the Indian Institute of Science, the Indian Ocean harbors a colossal and enigmatic phenomenon known as the “Gravity Hole,” which may be the remnants of an ancient sea that vanished millions of years ago.

About Gravity hole:

The gravity hole is a region of the ocean where the effects of gravity are less than usual.
It occurs at the bottom of the ocean where there are gravitational anomalies.
Why it occurs? These anomalies are caused by variations in the gravitational pull of the Earth due to differences in the density of the materials that make up the Earth’s crust.
The Indian Ocean is home to one of the most profound gravitational anomalies on Earth known as the Indian Ocean Geoid Low (IOGL).
It was discovered in 1948 during a ship-based gravity survey by Dutch geophysicist Felix Andries Vening Meinesz.
It is found in a large section of over three million sq. km in the Indian Ocean seafloor, located around 1,200 km southwest of India’s southern tip.
It is estimated to have formed approximately 20 million years ago.
Researchers said that the IOGL comprises slabs from the Tethys Ocean, a long-lost sea that plunged into the depths of the planet millions of years ago.
The Tethys Ocean, which once separated the supercontinents of Gondwana and Laurasia is believed to have perturbed the African Large Low Shear Velocity province

18. Khazan Land (Goa)

Recently, NGT highlighted the failure of the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority to follow environmental rules for construction on Khazan land at Cavelossim.

Khazans are coastal wetlands of Goa. They were reclaimed from mangrove forests (in the pre-Christian Era) by an intricate system of dykes, sluice gates and canals and put to multiple productive uses such as agriculture, aquaculture and salt panning. They are low-lying, saline water-logged areas.

19. India Joins Global Crisis Response Group of the UN

Global Crisis Response Group (GCRG) established by the UN Secretary-General in March 2022.
Purpose: Provide high-level political leadership for global coordination in tackling food security, energy, and financing challenges.
Champions Group includes representatives from Bangladesh, Barbados, Denmark, Germany, Indonesia, and Senegal.
UN Deputy-Secretary-General heads the GCRG’s Steering Committee.
GCRG has three Task Teams focused on Food, Energy, and Finance to offer data, analysis, policy recommendations, and solutions.

20. UN Statistical Commission

India elected to United Nations Statistical Commission for a term starting January 1, 2024.
HQ: New York, USA.
Established in 1947, it’s the apex entity of the global statistical system, comprising Chief Statisticians from member states.
Oversees United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD), under the UN Economic and Social Council (UNESC).
Membership: 24 UN member countries, elected by UNESC, ensuring equitable geographical distribution.
Members’ term: Four years.

21. L.69

L.69 Grouping held a meeting in India advocating for UNSC reform.
Comprises developing countries from Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia, and the Pacific.
United by the goal of comprehensive UNSC reform and strengthening multilateralism.
India plays a leading role in the L.69 grouping.

22. G 20

India’s G20 Presidency: Held in New Delhi with the theme “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (“One Earth, One Family, One Future”).
Key outcomes:
- G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Joint Declaration: Themes included SDG acceleration, women empowerment, reforms in multilateral institutions, international taxation, and global peace.
- Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA) launch to boost biofuel consumption.
- MoU for India Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
- African Union now a permanent G20 member.
- Proposal for G20 Satellite Mission for environmental and climate observation in the Global South.
- Global regulatory framework for crypto-assets and responsible AI use.
- Consensus on G20 framework for Global Digital Public Infrastructure Repository (GDPIR).
- G20 2023 Financial Inclusion Action Plan (FIAP) targeting individuals and MSMEs.
- Endorsement of culture advancement as a standalone goal in the Kashi Culture Pathway.
- Establishment of Start-up 20 Engagement Group.
- Adoption of G20 Generic Framework for Mapping Global Value Chains (GVC).
- Proposal of One Future Alliance (OFA) and Social Impact Fund for DPI implementation in the Global South.
- Initiatives like Resource Efficiency Circular Economy Industry Coalition (RECEIC), Travel for LiFE.
- Promotion of thematic roadmaps and principles such

Jaipur Call for Action for enhancing MSMEs’ access to information to promote the integration of MSMEs into international trade.
Chennai High-Level Principles for a Sustainable and Resilient Blue/Ocean-based Economy.
Gandhinagar Implementation Roadmap (GIR) and Gandhinagar Information Platform (GIP) for strengthening the G20 Global Land Initiative (aims to prevent, halt and reverse land degradation with an ambition to reduce degraded land by 50 percent by 2040).
Goa Roadmap for Tourism as a Vehicle for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals to achieve Sustainable Tourism.

23. Black Sea Grain Initiative

Black Sea Grain Initiative: Aims to address rising food prices due to supply disruptions from Russian activities in the global ‘breadbasket’.
Brokered by the United Nations (UN) and Turkey, signed in Istanbul in July 2022.
Allows exports of food and fertilizer (including ammonia) from three Ukrainian ports in the Black Sea: Odesa, Chornomorsk, Yuzhny/Pivdennyi.

24. The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2023

The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2023, passed in Lok Sabha, aims to enhance Ease of Living and Ease of Doing Business by amending 183 provisions across 42 Central Acts from 19 Ministries/Departments.
Its primary goal is to decriminalize minor offences, replacing them with civil penalties or administrative actions, especially those not affecting public interest or national security.
Introduced on 22nd December 2022, the bill was examined by a Joint Committee of Parliament, highlighting the need to alleviate the justice system’s burden and foster a more business-friendly legal framework.
Key changes include the removal of imprisonment clauses in certain provisions, introduction of penalties decided by adjudicating officers, compounding of offences to avoid court trials, and periodic revision of fines and penalties.
The bill notably proposes the removal of all offences and penalties under the outdated Indian Post Office Act of 1898.

25. MAHARISHI Initiative

MAHARISHI Initiative launched during G20 Meetings of Agricultural Chief Scientists (MACS) 2023 in Varanasi, India.
Full Name: Millets And otHer Ancient Grains International Research Initiative.
Secretariat: Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR), Hyderabad with support from ICRISAT, One CGIAR Centres, and other international organizations.
Focus Areas:
- Research Connectivity: Linking researchers and institutions in grain crop studies to spread research findings and pinpoint research needs.
- Web Platforms: Facilitating researcher connections, data exchange, and sharing of communication products and thematic briefs.
- Capacity Building: Organizing international workshops, conferences, and training.
- Recognition: Awarding performance and contributions of scientists in the field.

26. Indian Ocean Rim Association

Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA): Intergovernmental organization for economic cooperation and integration among Indian Ocean bordering countries.
Focus: Trade, investment, and sustainable development initiatives in the Indian Ocean region.
Establishment: Founded on 7 March 1997, inspired by Nelson Mandela’s 1995 visit to India and his vision for regional cooperation.
Membership: Open to sovereign states around the Indian Ocean that align with IORA’s principles.
Current Members (23): Australia, Bangladesh, Comoros, France/Reunion, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Madagascar, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Oman, Seychelles, Singapore, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, UAE, and Yemen.

27. Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC):

Initiative under India’s Act East Policy for cooperation with Pacific Island Countries (PICs).
Purpose: Strengthen ties between India and 14 PICs within the framework of India’s broader regional engagement.
Member Countries: Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.

28. International North-South Transport Corridor

International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC): A 7,200-kilometer transit system connecting India, Iran, Azerbaijan, Russia, Central Asia, and Europe via ship, rail, and road.
Inception: Launched on 12th September 2000 in St. Petersburg by Iran, Russia, and India to enhance transportation cooperation.
Membership Expansion: Now includes 10 additional countries – Azerbaijan, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Ukraine, Syria, Belarus, and Oman, with Bulgaria as an observer state. Latvia and Estonia have shown interest in joining.
Routes:

Central Corridor: From Mumbai’s Jawaharlal Nehru Port to Russia’s Olya and Astrakhan Ports via Iran’s Bandar Abbas and Caspian Sea.
Western Corridor: Links Azerbaijan and Iran’s railway networks, connecting to India’s Jawaharlal Nehru port via sea.
Eastern Corridor: Connects Russia to India through Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan.

29. Rasht-Astara Railway

Rasht-Astara Railway: 162-kilometer railway connecting Rasht, Iran (near the Caspian Sea) to Astara, Azerbaijan.
Part of International North-South Transport Corridor
Enhances connections between Russian Baltic Sea ports and Iranian Indian Ocean and Gulf ports, fostering new logistics chains.

30. India and Northern Sea Route

Northern Sea Route (NSR) Development: Russia is in discussions with India to develop the NSR, also known as the Northeast Passage (NEP).
Location and Length: The NSR, within Russia’s exclusive economic zone, spans 5,600 km from the Barents Sea to the Bering Strait, crossing the Kara, Laptev, East Siberian, and Chukchi Seas.
Advantages: Offers the shortest maritime path between Europe and Asia-Pacific countries, significantly reducing the distance compared to the traditional Suez Canal route.
India’s Engagement:
- Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor (CVMC): An initiative for organized container transit through the NSR, linking India and Russia.
- Route: The CVMC, also known as the Eastern Maritime Corridor (EMC), traverses the Sea of Japan, South China Sea, and Malacca Strait.

31. Colombo Security Conclave

CSC Initiation: Started in 2011 by India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka.
Expansion in 2021: Mauritius joined as a member; Bangladesh and Seychelles became observers.
Secretariat: Located in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Cooperation Areas: Focuses on maritime security, counter-terrorism, and cyber security among others.

32. Operation Prosperity Guardian

Operation Prosperity Guardian was launched by the United States.
Part of Combined Task Force 153 (CTF-153), established in 2022 for maritime security in the Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb, and Gulf of Aden.
Involves multiple countries like the UK, Bahrain, Canada, France, Seychelles, Spain, etc.
Launched due to increased attacks on commercial ships, including hijackings by Houthis in Yemen Civil War context.

33. HAITI Conflict

Haiti has experienced significant social and political instability, exacerbated by the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, leading to an acute security crisis with gangs controlling over 80% of the capital, Port-au-Prince.
The United Nations Security Council authorized a Kenya-led multinational force to support Haitian police against gang violence, although its deployment faced delays.
Haiti’s history includes enduring corruption, political repression, and vulnerability to natural disasters, contributing to its status as the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere.
Political instability has been a constant, with multiple coups and foreign interventions. Notable periods include the Duvalier dictatorship and the controversial UN peacekeeping mission MINUSTAH, accused of human rights abuses and introducing cholera.
The assassination of President Moïse in 2021 intensified the country’s turmoil, with allegations of government collusion with gangs and worsening violence and humanitarian crises.
Gangs, particularly the G9 coalition, have significant influence, often blockading vital resources like fuel, exacerbating the humanitarian situation.
Haiti’s government and police force struggle with understaffing and corruption, contributing to the inability to control gang violence and political instability.
Natural disasters frequently devastate Haiti, compounding its challenges. The 2010 earthquake was particularly destructive.
Haitian migration has surged due to domestic conditions, prompting the Biden administration to extend certain immigration protections.
Recent vigilante justice movements, such as “Bwa Kale,” have emerged due to the ineffectiveness of state institutions in combating gang violence, raising concerns about potential new threats to civilian safety.
Jimmy Chérizie leading the infamous gang called Barbecue.
The international community, including the US and UN, has pledged support for Haiti’s security and humanitarian needs, though concerns about potential abuses by foreign forces remain.

34. SAHEL REGION

Geography: A 3,860-km transitional belt between the Sahara Desert and sub-Saharan Africa, spanning Senegal to Eritrea.
Countries located within the Sahel region include Senegal, Mauritania, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria, Chad, Sudan, Eritrea, and a small part of southern Algeria.
Environment: Semi-arid, marked by barren landscapes.
Cultural Significance: A historical and cultural intersection between Arabic, Islamic, nomadic cultures from the north, and indigenous, traditional cultures from the south.
Challenges: Faces issues like ethno-religious tensions, political instability, poverty, natural disasters, and is a hotspot for criminal and political movements due to its vast, ungoverned spaces.

Regional Concerns:

Mali: Continued threat from Islamist extremism, with groups like al-Mourabitoun active despite efforts to combat them.
Mauritania: A nexus for drug and human trafficking, compounded by sub-state militant activities and governance issues, posing a risk of political violence.
Nigeria: Persistent threat from Boko Haram, with potential for resurgence in the Lake Chad Basin despite claims of its defeat.

35. Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)

It is a severe form of muscular dystrophy characterized by rapid progression of muscle degeneration, leading to muscle weakness and loss. Here are the key points about DMD:

Genetic Cause: DMD is caused by mutations in the DMD gene that encodes for dystrophin, a protein crucial for maintaining muscle cell integrity.
Inheritance: It is an X-linked recessive disorder, primarily affecting males, with females being carriers.
Symptoms: Begin in early childhood, including muscle weakness, difficulties in walking, running, and jumping, and progresses to more severe mobility and respiratory issues.

Recent Advancement:

A collaborative team from Tamil Nadu, India, and Japanese scientists have developed a novel disease-modifying treatment for DMD.
The treatment utilizes a beta-glucan produced by the N-163 strain of yeast Aureobasidium pullulans, commonly used as a food additive.

36. Global Tuberculosis (TB) Report 2023 by WHO

Key Global Findings

Global Burden: TB was the second leading cause of death from a single infectious agent in 2022, after Covid-19.
Deaths: TB caused almost twice as many deaths as HIV/AIDS.
Annual Cases: Over 10 million people fell ill with TB in 2022.
High Burden Countries: 30 countries accounted for 87% of global TB cases, with India, Indonesia, China, the Philippines, Pakistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh, and the Democratic Republic of Congo being the top eight.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis Increase: 7.5 million diagnosed in 2022, the highest since WHO monitoring began in 1995.
Treatment Success: Approximately 85% cure rate with WHO-recommended anti-TB drugs.
Global Recovery: Post-Covid-19 improvements in diagnosis and treatment, with significant contributions from India, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Incidence Rate

Rise in Incidence: 3.9% increase between 2020 and 2022, reversing the previous declining trend.

Findings Related to India

Case Fatality Ratio: 12% in India, with an estimated 3,42,000 TB-related deaths in 2022.
MDR-TB: Recorded 1.1 lakh cases of multidrug-resistant TB.

Recommendations of the Report

End TB by 2030: Calls for urgent action to meet the UN and WHO goal.
Universal Health Coverage: Essential for accessible TB treatment.
Multisectoral Action: Needed to address underlying determinants of TB.

Understanding Tuberculosis

About: Caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, affecting lungs and other organs.
Transmission: Airborne, spreading in densely populated or poorly ventilated areas.
Symptoms: Include cough, chest pain, weakness, weight loss, fever, and night sweats.
Treatment: Standard 6-month course of antimicrobial drugs, with issues of drug resistance.

Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB)

Definition: TB not responding to isoniazid and rifampicin.
Treatment: Second-line drugs like Bedaquiline for MDR-TB; XDR-TB represents a more severe form.

Initiatives to Combat TB

Global Efforts: WHO’s “Find. Treat. All. #EndTB” initiative, annual Global Tuberculosis Report.
India’s Efforts: National Strategic Plan for TB Elimination, The Nikshay Ecosystem, Nikshay Poshan Yojana, TB Harega Desh Jeetega Campaign, and development of new vaccines VPM 1002 and MIP under trial.

37. Leptospirosis

Cause: Bacterial disease affecting humans and animals.
Symptoms: High fever, headache, chills, vomiting, red eyes, abdominal pain, rashes, diarrhea.
Complications: Can lead to kidney damage, meningitis, liver failure, respiratory distress, and death if untreated.
Duration: Illness lasts a few days to 3 weeks or longer; recovery may take several months without treatment.

Outbreak Response in Odisha

Increased Surveillance: Directed by the Odisha Government following the seasonal upsurge of Scrub Typhus and Leptospirosis.
Health Measures: Emphasis on the availability of diagnostic tests, sensitization of healthcare providers, public awareness, early diagnosis, and the use of appropriate antibiotics.

38. NASA’s Psyche Mission

Launch: Took off on 13th October 2023 from Kennedy Space Center via SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket.
Destination: Aims to explore asteroid Psyche, located between Mars and Jupiter.
Objective: To study Psyche, believed to be the nickel-iron core of an early planet, offering insights into planetary cores and formation of terrestrial planets.

39. Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC)

Psyche is the first spacecraft to test NASA’s DSOC transceiver.
Technology: Utilizes near-infrared light photons for data encoding, aiming for data rates ten times higher than current radio systems.
Advantages: Promises enhanced imaging, extensive data transmission, and potential for video streaming from deep space.
Challenges: While offering higher data rates, near-infrared waves have limitations in penetration and distance compared to radio waves’ extensive reach.

40. Seahorse

Classification: Fish, genus Hippocampus.
Global Species: 46 species worldwide.
Indian Species: 9 out of 12 Indo-Pacific species found in India.
Habitats: Shallow coastal waters, in ecosystems like seagrass, mangroves, macroalgal beds, and coral reefs.
Distribution in India: Along coasts of eight States and five Union Territories, including Gujarat to Odisha, Lakshadweep, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Unique Characteristics

Swimming: Maintain vertical position, propel with a dorsal fin.
Migration: Use rafting on floating substrata for dispersal.
Reproduction: Male pregnancy, with females depositing eggs in the male’s brood pouch.

Conservation Status

IUCN: Vulnerable.
CITES: Appendix II.

Decline and Migration

Overexploitation: For traditional Chinese medicines, ornamental fish trade, and as bycatch in general fishing.
Pressure: High dependency on local habitats exacerbates vulnerability.
Migration Cause: Extensive fishing off the southern coast of India, particularly around the Coromandel coast, pushing northward migration.

Challenges in Odisha

Habitat Suitability: Lack of coral reefs or seagrass meadows outside the Chilika region.
Fishing Practices: The impact of fishing nets and practices like bottom trawling on seahorses.

Why in News?

A study indicated that extensive fishing off the Coromandel coast could be forcing the great seahorse to migrate towards Odisha.

41. Pradhan Mantri-Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) Scheme

Overview

Initiative: Launched by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to integrate tribal communities into mainstream society.
Implementation: Collaborative effort between the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, State governments, and PVTG communities.
Focus: Targets 11 critical areas through 9 line Ministries, enhancing infrastructure and services in PVTG-inhabited villages.

Key Features

Interventions: Includes safe housing, clean drinking water, healthcare, education, nutrition, connectivity, and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Van Dhan Vikas Kendras: Established for trading forest produce.
Off-grid Solar: Provision of solar power systems for 100,000 households and solar street lighting.

Challenges

Data Availability: The last census of PVTGs was in 2001, with outdated population data complicating needs assessment and progress tracking.
Diverse Needs: PVTGs across regions have varied needs, requiring tailored approaches.
Social Stigma: PVTGs face discrimination, necessitating sensitization efforts.
Scheme Integration: Coordination with existing programs is crucial for effective resource utilization.

42. The process to get ST status in India

(Important because of conflict in Manipur and in news recently as many tribes got ST status)

To get Scheduled Tribe (ST) status in India, the following process is typically followed:

State Government’s Recommendation: The process starts with the state government initiating a recommendation for the inclusion of a caste or tribe in the ST list.
Review by Tribal Affairs Ministry: The recommendation from the state government is reviewed by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
Approval from Registrar General of India: After the Ministry’s review, the proposal is sent to the Registrar General of India under the Home Ministry for approval.
National Commission for Scheduled Tribes: Following approval from the Registrar General, the proposal is sent to the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes for further evaluation.
Cabinet Approval: Once the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes approves the proposal, it is sent to the Cabinet for a final decision.
Parliamentary Process: The Cabinet’s approval leads to the introduction of a bill in Parliament to amend the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950, and the Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order, 1950.
Presidential Assent: After the bill is passed by both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, it goes to the President for assent. Once the President gives assent, the caste or tribe is officially accorded ST status.

43. IDATE COMMISSION