July 19, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Genetically Modified (GM) Mustard | Explained
Delve into the contentious issue of genetically modified (GM) mustard, focusing on the recently approved DMH-11 variant. Explore the background of GM mustard and its potential benefits, such as improved yields and enhanced food security. On the other hand, also highlighting the concerns raised by activists regarding environmental impacts, biosafety risks, and herbicide tolerance. Acknowledge the political and public divide on the subject and emphasize the need for a well-informed dialogue to determine the future of GM mustard in Indian agriculture.
Highlights of the Day
1. Rajasthan Government Tables Minimum Guaranteed Income Bill, 2023, Aiming to Provide Additional Support to Citizens Rajasthan Minimum Guaranteed Income Bill, 2023, is to provide support to individuals and households in the state with an “additional income.” The Bill covers three main areas: Right to Minimum Guaranteed Income, Right to Guaranteed Employment, and Right to Guaranteed Social Security Pension. It aims to offer eligible persons a minimum guaranteed income through various schemes like Mahatma Gandhi Minimum Guaranteed Income Yojana, providing employment opportunities and pensions. The government anticipates an additional expenditure of Rs 2,500 crore per year due to this scheme. The Bill emphasizes social security as a right for deprived sections of society and has received positive feedback from social activists for its comprehensive approach [1].
2. India Achieves All-Time High DPT3 Vaccine Coverage of 93% in 2022, WHO Reports A report by the World Health Organization (WHO) is that India’s DPT3 (diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus) vaccine coverage reached an all-time high of 93% in 2022, surpassing the pre-pandemic record of 91% in 2019 and showing a significant increase from 85% in 2021. The WHO South-East Asia Region also saw improvements in DPT3 and measles vaccine coverage rates, attributed mainly to the efforts made by countries like India and Indonesia. Despite the positive progress, there are still variabilities in coverage at subnational levels, and it is crucial to address inequities in immunization to protect children from vaccine-preventable diseases [2].
3. Environmentalists Fight to Block GM Mustard Approval in India
There is a determined battle by environmentalists in the Supreme Court of India against the approval of Delhi University's genetically modified (GM) herbicide-tolerant (HT) mustard. The article highlights the differences between GM crops and conventional varieties, expressing concerns about the safety, efficacy, and necessity of GM food. The experience with Bt cotton, India's first and only approved GM crop, has raised alarms about increased costs and risks for farmers and profits for seed companies. The Parliament's Standing Committees and a Technical Expert Committee have called for caution and a thorough assessment before releasing GM food. Despite the political and technical consensus against HT crops, the government is pushing ahead with GM mustard, disregarding science and the law. The government's attempt to argue that GM mustard is not HT in court is seen as misleading, and the article warns of potential risks to public health, the environment, and agricultural livelihoods if GM mustard is approved, potentially setting a precedent for other HT crops in the future [3].
4. Rudragiri Hillock: Unveiling India's Mesolithic Rock Paintings & Kakatiya Art Treasures Rudragiri hillock in Andhra Pradesh is an archaeological site with a rich historical past, featuring a unique combination of prehistoric rock paintings from the Mesolithic period and exquisite artwork from the Kakatiya dynasty. The site boasts naturally formed rock shelters that served as living quarters during the Mesolithic age, adorned with luminous rock paintings from around 5000 B.C. Additionally, two natural caves on the hillock display exceptional murals from the renowned Kakatiya kingdom, depicting scenes from the Ramayana. The artwork showcases the artistic brilliance of the Kakatiya period, with some surviving outlines providing valuable insights into their creation during the 13th century A.D. Notably, the Ramayana scenes at Rudragiri bear resemblance to similar frescoes discovered in Telangana, suggesting possible inspiration from artworks in neighboring regions [4].
5. Global Biofuel Alliance to be Established at CEM14/MI-8 Conference, India's Ambitious Biofuel Program Takes Center Stage The upcoming 14th Clean Energy Ministerial and Eighth Mission Innovation (CEM14/MI-8) conference in Goa is likely to establish the Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA). Under the leadership of India during its G20 Presidency and with support from Brazil and the United States, the alliance aims to foster international collaboration and cooperation to promote the widespread acceptance and utilization of biofuels. The GBA will focus on strengthening markets, facilitating global biofuel trade, sharing policy lessons, and providing technical support for national biofuel programs worldwide. India's biofuel program and achievements in ethanol production and compressed bio-gas (CBG) usage are highlighted as remarkable endeavors. The article emphasizes the potential transformative opportunities offered by biofuels in terms of economic growth, rural development, energy self-sufficiency, reduced air pollution, and clean energy transition. It draws inspiration from the success of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and envisions the GBA as a platform to revolutionize the global biofuel industry by setting specific goals and implementing innovative initiatives [5].
Source: Indian Express | The Hindu | DownToEarth
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Consider the following statements about the Indian National Congress (INC):
I. INC was founded in 1885 by Allan Octavian Hume.
II. The first session of INC was held in Bombay (now Mumbai).
III. Dadabhai Naoroji served as the President of the first session.
IV. INC's goal during its early years was complete independence from British rule.
Which of the statements above is correct?
a) I and II only
b) II and III only
c) I, II, and IV only
d) All of the above
Q2: The 'Chabahar Port' is strategically important for India because:
I. It provides access to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan.
II. India has exclusive rights to operate the port under the Chabahar Agreement.
III. It facilitates India's trade with European countries through the Persian Gulf.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
a) I and II only
b) I and III only
c) II and III only
d) I, II, and III
Q3: Which of the following cities lies on the Tropic of Cancer?
a) Jaipur
b) Varanasi
c) Udaipur
d) Bhopal
Q4: Consider the following pairs:
Region Famous for
I. Coorg - Coffee Plantations
II. Wayanad - Tea Gardens
III. Darjeeling - Orange Orchards
Which of the pairs above are correctly matched?
a) I and II only
b) I and III only
c) II and III only
d) All of the above
Q5: The 'Hirakud Dam,' one of the longest dams in the world, is constructed on which river in India?
a) Narmada River
b) Godavari River
c) Mahanadi River
d) Krishna River
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Explain "Green Growth" and its importance for sustainable development. How can countries integrate Green Growth principles into policies to address environmental challenges and promote inclusive economic growth? Provide examples of successful Green Growth strategies from different nations. (Word limit: 250 words).
Need help in writing or evaluation?
What we see matters
Some insightful observations from past UPSC papers:
There have been questions about species in the news. Candidates should know endangered species, recent discoveries, and ecological importance. Understanding biodiversity, conservation, and species' behavior is crucial. Stay updated on global efforts and international organizations for species preservation.
Note: For answer key and explanation of daily practice questions, join us at: t.me/tinkerchild
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