1. Minimum Support Price
Q.Consider the following statements:
- The Government of India provides Minimum Support Price for soyabean (Glycine max ).
- In India, Soyabean is cultivated as a Rabi crop.
- It is a leguminous crop native to East Asia.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Answer: (b) Only two
Explanation:
In NEWS: M.P. Cabinet raises MSP for soya bean, to send proposal to Union govt. for approval
About Soyabean:
- The soybean, soybean, or soya bean (Glycine max) is a species of legume native to East Asia, widely grown for its edible bean, which has numerous uses. Hence statement 3 is correct.
- Traditional unfermented food uses of soybeans include soy milk, from which tofu and tofu skin are made.
- Fermented soy foods include soy sauce, fermented bean paste, nattō, and tempeh. Fat-free (defatted) soybean meal is a significant and cheap source of protein for animal feeds and many packaged meals.
- For example, soybean products, such as textured vegetable protein (TVP), are ingredients in many meat and dairy substitutes.
- The ideal time to sow soyabean is from mid to the end of June, depending on the availability of soil moisture and rainfall.
- Soyabean can grow in a variety of soils, but it performs best in vertisols that are rich in organic carbon.
- During the kharif season, soyabean requires about 70–75 kg/hectare of seed. Hence statement 2 is incorrect.
About Minimum Support Price (MSP):
- Minimum Support Price (MSP) is a form of market intervention by the Government of India to insure agricultural producers against any sharp fall in farm prices.
- The minimum guaranteed prices are fixed to set a floor below which market prices cannot fall.
- The minimum support prices are announced by the Government of India at the beginning of the sowing season for certain crops on the basis of the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).
- The major objectives are to support the farmers from distress sales and to procure food grains for public distribution.
- In case the market price for the commodity falls below the announced minimum price due to bumper production and glut in the market, government agencies purchase the entire quantity offered by the farmers at the announced minimum price.
Crops covered under MSP:
- Government announces minimum support prices (MSPs) for 22 mandated crops and fair and remunerative price (FRP) for sugarcane.
- The mandated crops are 14 crops of the kharif season, 6 rabi crops and two other commercial crops.
- In addition, the MSPs of toria and de-husked coconut are fixed on the basis of the MSPs of rapeseed/mustard and copra, respectively.
- The list of crops are as follows.
- Cereals (7) – paddy, wheat, barley, jowar, bajra, maize and ragi
- Pulses (5) – gram, arhar/tur, moong, urad and lentil
- Oilseeds (8) – groundnut, rapeseed/mustard, toria, soyabean, sunflower seed, sesamum, safflower seed and nigerseed. Hence statement 1 is correct.
- Raw cotton
- Raw jute
- Copra
- De-husked coconut
- Sugarcane (Fair and remunerative price)
- Virginia flu cured (VFC) tobacco
| PYQ REFERENCE: Q. Consider the following statements:1. The Government of India provides Minimum Support Price for niger (Guizotia abyssinica) seeds.2. Niger is cultivated as a Kharif crop.3. Some tribal people in India use niger seed oil for cooking.How many of the above statements are correct?(a) Only one(b) Only two(c) All three(d) None |
https://vikaspedia.in/agriculture/market-information/minimum-support-price
2. Black box warning
Q. Which among the following organisations is responsible for issuing “Black box warning”?
(a) European Medicines Agency (EMA)
(b) Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO)
(c) U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
(d) World Health Organization (WHO)
Answer: (c) U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Explanation:
In NEWS: Montelukast: overused and dangerous
Background:
- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) added a ‘black box warning’ to montelukast and the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency, U.K. issued a health warning saying the drug could cause serious neuropsychiatric adverse effects. Hence option (c) is correct.
- Several patient advocacy groups across the world have been lobbying for the restricted use of this drug.
- While caution is being exercised everywhere, the sale of this drug in India is unregulated, largely irrational, and seems to be increasing exponentially.
About Montelukast:
- Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used primarily to manage asthma and allergic rhinitis.
- It works by blocking substances in the body called leukotrienes, which contribute to inflammation and constriction in the airways.
- Concerns About Overuse and Overprescription
- Prevalence: There is significant concern that montelukast is overused and overprescribed, particularly for conditions where its efficacy is questionable.
- Examples of Overprescription: The medication is sometimes prescribed for mild asthma cases or conditions where other treatments might be more appropriate.
- Risks and Side Effects
- Serious Side Effects: Montelukast has been linked to serious side effects, including neuropsychiatric symptoms like mood changes, suicidal thoughts, and behavioral issues.
- FDA Warnings: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about the risk of these side effects, prompting more cautious use of the drug.
Black Box Warnings
- A black box warning is the FDA’s most stringent warning for drugs and medical devices on the market.
- Black box warnings, or boxed warnings, alert the public and health care providers to serious side effects, such as injury or death.
3. Photoelectric Effect
Q.With reference to Photoelectric Effect, which of the following statements are correct?
- The photoelectric effect is the emission of electrons from a material caused by electromagnetic radiation such as ultraviolet light.
- It can be used to convert light energy into electrical energy.
- It is used to capture images in digital cameras and telescopes.
- The photoelectric effect is possible in all frequencies.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1, 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
(d) 2, 3 and 4 only
Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
Explanation:
In NEWS: Superfast studies of the photoelectric effect reveal matter’s secrets
Background:
- The photoelectric effect has been a cornerstone of quantum mechanics since Einstein’s explanation in 1905, but recent advances are adding new dimensions to our understanding of this phenomenon.
- Current research is delving into the ultra-fast dynamics of photoemission, revealing previously hidden details about the interaction between light and matter.
- Recent studies have shown that core electrons, which are tightly bound within an atom, can be ionized and exhibit different trajectories depending on the atomic environment.
- For instance, core electrons ionized from nitrogen and oxygen atoms display distinct photoemission delays due to their varying molecular potentials.
- This phenomenon provides insights into how electrons move and interact with light on incredibly short timescales.
About Photoelectric Effect:
- The photoelectric effect is the emission of electrons from a material caused by electromagnetic radiation such as ultraviolet light. Hence statement 1 is correct.
- Electrons emitted in this manner are called photoelectrons.
- The phenomenon is studied in condensed matter physics, solid state, and quantum chemistry to draw inferences about the properties of atoms, molecules and solids.
- The effect has found use in electronic devices specialized for light detection and precisely timed electron emission.
Applications of the Photoelectric Effect:
- Photoelectric Cells (Photocells):
- Usage: Convert light energy into electrical energy. Used in solar panels, light meters, and automatic lighting systems. Hence statement 2 is correct.
- Example: Solar panels (photovoltaic cells) use the photoelectric effect to generate electricity from sunlight.
- Photomultiplier Tubes:
- Usage: Detect low levels of light. Used in scientific research, medical imaging, and astronomy.
- Example: In particle physics experiments, photomultiplier tubes are used to detect light produced by particles in detectors.
- Light Sensors:
- Usage: Measure light intensity. Commonly found in various devices such as automatic lighting systems and photographic exposure meters.
- Example: Light sensors in smartphones adjust screen brightness based on ambient light conditions.
- Quantum Dots and Nanotechnology:
- Usage: Utilized in advanced materials and nanotechnology to exploit the unique optical and electronic properties of nanoscale materials.
- Example: Quantum dots are used in display technologies and medical imaging due to their ability to emit light at specific wavelengths.
- Photoelectron Spectroscopy:
- Usage: Analyze the surface and electronic properties of materials by measuring the kinetic energy of emitted photoelectrons.
- Example: X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) helps in understanding the composition and chemical states of surface layers of materials.
- Charge-Coupled Devices (CCDs):
- Usage: Capture images in digital cameras and telescopes by converting light into electronic signals. Hence statement 3 is correct.
- Example: CCDs in digital cameras convert light into an electrical charge, which is then processed to form images.
The photoelectric effect is not possible in the following situations:
- Low frequency light
- The photoelectric effect requires a minimum frequency, called the threshold frequency, to occur. If the light frequency is below the threshold frequency, the effect will not happen, regardless of the light’s intensity. For example, red light has a lower frequency than the threshold frequency of most metals, so the photoelectric effect doesn’t occur when red light hits a metal surface. Hence statement 4 is incorrect.
- Lithium
- Lithium has a high ionization energy, so it doesn’t lose electrons easily and doesn’t exhibit the photoelectric effect.
- X-rays and gamma rays
- The energy of X-rays and gamma rays is too high for metal electrons to absorb, so the photons don’t give up all their energy to an electron and the photoelectric effect doesn’t happen.
- Free electrons
- The photoelectric effect can’t happen with free electrons because it violates the law of conservation of momentum.
| PYQ REFERENCE: Q. With reference to Visible Light Communication (VLC) technology, which of the following statements are correct?1. VLC uses electromagnetic spectrum wavelengths 375 to 780 nm2. VLC is known as long range optical wireless communication.3. VLC can transmit large amounts of data faster than Bluetooth4. VLC has no electromagnetic interferenceSelect the correct answer using the code given below:(a) 1, 2 and 3 only(b) 1, 2 and 4 only(c) 1, 3 and 4 only(d) 2, 3 and 4 only |
4. Heatwaves
Q. with reference to Heat Waves, consider the following statements.
- As per the IMD, heat wave is a condition where the maximum temperature of a station reaches above 40°C for Plains and above 30°C for Hilly regions.
- In India, Heat waves generally develop over Northwest India and spread gradually eastwards & southwards but not westwards .
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Explanation:
In NEWS: Heatwaves linked to 34% higher risk of perinatal death in sub-Saharan Africa, study finds
About Heat Waves:
- A Heat Wave is a period of abnormally high temperatures, more than the normal maximum temperature that occurs during the summer season in the North-Western parts of India.
- Heat Waves typically occur between March and June, and in some rare cases even extend till July in India.
- The extreme temperatures and resultant atmospheric conditions adversely affect people as they cause physiological stress, sometimes resulting in death.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has given the following criteria for Heat Waves :
- Heat Wave need not be considered till maximum temperature of a station reaches atleast 40°C for Plains and atleast 30°C for Hilly regions. Hence statement 1 is correct.
- When normal maximum temperature of a station is less than or equal to 40°C Heat Wave Departure from normal is 5°C to 6°C Severe Heat Wave Departure from normal is 7°C or more
- When normal maximum temperature of a station is more than 40°C Heat Wave Departure from normal is 4°C to 5°C Severe Heat Wave Departure from normal is 6°C or more
- When actual maximum temperature remains 45°C or more irrespective of normal maximum temperature, heat waves should be declared.
The favorable conditions for Heat wave:
- Transportation / Prevalence of hot dry air over a region (There should be a region of warm dry air and appropriate flow pattern for transporting hot air over the region).
- Absence of moisture in the upper atmosphere (As the presence of moisture restricts the temperature rise).
- The sky should be practically cloudless (To allow maximum insulation over the region).
- Large amplitude anti-cyclonic flow over the area.
Heat waves generally develop over Northwest India and spread gradually eastwards & southwards but not westwards (since the prevailing winds during the season are westerly to northwesterly). But on some occasions, heat wave may also develop over any region in situ under the favorable conditions. Hence statement 2 is correct.
Health Impacts of Heat Waves
- The health impacts of Heat Waves typically involve dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and/or heat stroke. The signs and symptoms are as follows:
- Heat Cramps: Ederna (swelling) and Syncope (Fainting) generally accompanied by fever below 39°C i.e.102°F.
- Heat Exhaustion: Fatigue, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps and sweating.
- Heat Stroke: Body temperatures of 40°C i.e. 104°F or more along with delirium, seizures or coma. This is a potential fatal condition
https://www.ndma.gov.in/Natural-Hazards/Heat-Wave
https://internal.imd.gov.in/section/nhac/dynamic/FAQ_heat_wave.pdf
5. Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY) programme
Q.Which one of the following is the purpose of ‘RGGVY’, a scheme of the Government?
(a) Providing technical and financial assistance to startup entrepreneurs in the field of renewable sources of energy
(b) Providing electricity to every household in 400,000 villages across India.
(c) Replacing the coal-based power plants with natural gas, nuclear, solar, wind and tidal power plants over a period of time
(d) Providing for financial turnaround and revival of power distribution companies
Answer: (b) Providing electricity to every household in 400,000 villages across India.
Explanation:
In NEWS: Larger villages benefit more from India’s rural electrification programmes: Study
India’s rural electrification programmes: Study
- A recent study on India’s ‘last mile’ electrification programme has revealed mixed economic impacts, with larger villages yielding substantial benefits over smaller ones.
- The researchers found that, “not only are there high costs of providing infrastructure to remote, sparsely populated areas, but these communities may not be able to translate improved infrastructure into meaningful economic gains.”
Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY) programme:
- Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY) programme, which aimed to electrify over 400,000 villages across India. Hence option (b) is correct.
- It was India’s flagship initiative to bring electricity to rural areas, with the dual goal of connecting unelectrified villages and more intensively electrifying villages with limited access.
- Implementing Agency: Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) is the nodal agency for implementing RGGVY.
- State-level Coordination: States are responsible for planning, execution, and monitoring at the local level.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Periodic reviews and audits are conducted to ensure compliance and assess the program’s impact.
| PYQ REFERENCE:Q. Which one of the following is the purpose of ‘UDAY’, a scheme of the Government?(a) Providing technical and financial assistance to startup entrepreneurs in the field of renewable sources of energy(b) Providing electricity to every household in the countries by 2018(c) Replacing the coal-based power plants with natural gas, nuclear, solar, wind and tidal power plants over a period of time(d) Providing for financial turnaround and revival of power distribution companies |
6. INS Malpe and INS Mulki
Q. Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Malpe and INS Mulki’, that was in the news recently?
(a) Amphibious warfare ship
(b) Anti-submarine warfare vessels
(c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
(d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier
Answer: (b) Anti-submarine warfare vessels
Explanation:
In NEWS: Two anti-submarine warfare vessels for Indian Navy launched at Cochin Shipyard
About INS Malpe and INS Mulki:
- The Indian Navy has launched two new anti-submarine warfare vessels, Malpe and Mulki, as part of its effort to bolster coastal defense capabilities. Hence option (b) is correct.
- Built by Cochin Shipyard Ltd., these vessels are equipped with advanced indigenous sensors and are capable of speeds up to 25 knots.
- The project is part of India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, with over 80% indigenous content.
- This launch highlights India’s growing self-reliance in defense production and is expected to enhance both domestic manufacturing and employment.
Capabilities and Specifications of the Vessels:
- The newly launched ships, Malpe and Mulki, are designed to enhance India’s coastal defense and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
- They are equipped with advanced, locally developed underwater sensors designed to detect enemy submarines and other underwater threats.
- The vessels are capable of conducting anti-submarine warfare in shallow waters, low-intensity maritime operations, and mine-laying activities.
- The ships measure 78 meters in length and displace around 900 tons.
- They can achieve speeds of up to 25 knots and have an endurance of 1,800 nautical miles, enabling them to cover vast areas of coastal waters efficiently.
- The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that these vessels are part of a larger effort to improve the Indian Navy’s coastal defense strategy.
| PYQ REFERENCE:Q. Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?(a) Amphibious warfare ship(b) Nuclear-powered submarine(c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel(d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier |
7. Calabash system
Q. Recently, the term “Calabash system” is actually and appropriately discussed in the context of which one of the following?
(a) Irrigation of terraced crop fields
(b) Lift irrigation of cereal crops
(c) Long duration energy storage
(d) Rainwater harvesting system
Answer: (d) Rainwater harvesting system
Explanation:
In NEWS: Africa’s rain harvesters: Malawi’s indigenous calabash system gives sustainable solutions to water woes
About:
- The Calabash system is a low-cost, sustainable rainwater harvesting and storage solution designed for rural communities.
- It uses local materials and simple engineering techniques to build rainwater storage tanks that support both agricultural and domestic needs.
- In the heart of Southern Africa, Malawi is blending traditional knowledge with natural resources to address water scarcity, particularly during dry seasons.
- With rolling landscapes and lush valleys, the country is promoting indigenous water harvesting systems to sustain communities through the harsh dry spells.
- Since 2021, the Rainwater Harvesting Association of Malawi (RHAM) has installed over 200 rainwater harvesting systems across the country, with a design referred to as a ‘calabash’.
- These systems collect and store rainwater during the rainy season, ensuring a steady supply for agriculture and domestic use year-round. Hence option (d) is correct.
- Its features includes ,
- Catchment Areas: Designed to collect rainwater from rooftops or surface runoff.
- Filtration Systems: Removes debris to ensure clean water.
- Storage Capacity: Each cistern can store between 5,000 to 20,000 litres of water.
- Distribution Mechanisms: Includes gravity-fed systems or hand-pumps for irrigation and household use.
- Agricultural Benefits:
- Increased Crop Yields: Farmers have reported a 30-40% increase in crop yields due to reliable water supply.
- Year-Round Cultivation: Enables farmers to grow crops throughout the year.
- Community Benefits:
- Shared Resource: Each cistern can serve up to 10 households, supporting various needs including drinking, cooking, cleaning, and irrigation.
- Improved Food Security: The surplus produce from increased crop yields contributes to local markets and food security.
- Cost-Effectiveness:
- Low-Cost Construction: Utilizes local materials and is affordable for rural communities.
- Sustainable Maintenance: Designed for easy maintenance with community involvement, reducing long-term costs.
| PYQ REFERENCE:Q. Recently, the term “pumped-storage hydropower” is actually and appropriately discussed in the context of which one of the following?(a) Irrigation of terraced crop fields(b) Lift irrigation of cereal crops(c) Long duration energy storage(d) Rainwater harvesting system |
8. Yettinahole project
Q. With reference to the Yettinahole project, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- It aims to address the issues of drought in the water-scarce regions of the Kolar, Chikkaballapur, and Tumkur districts in Karnataka.
- It involves diverting water from the Yettinahole, a tributary of the Sharavati River.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (a) 1 only
Explanation:
In NEWS: DTE impact: MoEFCC asks Karnataka for clarity on forest land use, compensatory afforestation planned for Yettinahole project
About Yettinahole Project:
- The Yettinahole Project is a significant water infrastructure initiative in the Indian state of Karnataka.
- The primary objective of the Yettinahole Project is to provide a reliable and sustainable water supply to the water-scarce regions of the Kolar, Chikkaballapur, and Tumkur districts in Karnataka.
- It aims to address the issues of drought and water scarcity in these areas, which have historically faced water shortages affecting agriculture and daily life. Hence statement 1 is correct.
- The project is located in the Western Ghats region of Karnataka. It involves diverting water from the Yettinahole, a tributary of the Netravati River. Hence statement 2 is incorrect.
- The components of the project includes,
- Diversion Channels: Constructed to divert water from the Yettinahole to the drought-prone areas.
- Storage Facilities: Includes construction of reservoirs and storage tanks.
- Distribution Network: Includes pipelines and infrastructure to deliver water to the targeted districts.
- The project is implemented in phases, with specific milestones and timelines for each phase.
- It is managed by the Karnataka Neeravari Nigam Limited (KNNL) and other state agencies responsible for water resources and infrastructure development.
Benefits of the project:
- Agricultural: Provides a dependable water supply for irrigation, potentially increasing agricultural productivity in the affected regions.
- Domestic: Improves water availability for drinking and household use.
- Economic: Aims to boost the local economy by improving water availability for various sectors.
Controversies and Challenges:
- Impact on Ecosystem: There have been concerns regarding the environmental impact of diverting water from the Western Ghats, which is a sensitive ecological region.
- Wildlife: Potential threats to local flora and fauna due to construction and water diversion activities.
- Displacement: Some reports indicate potential displacement of local communities due to project construction.
- Legal Disputes: The project has faced legal challenges and opposition from various environmental and social groups.
9. SEMICON India 2024
Q. With reference to the SEMICON India 2024, consider the following statements:
- It aims to make India’s electronics sector worth $500 billion by the end of the 2030.
- It showcases India’s semiconductor strategy and policy which envisions making India a global hub for semiconductor.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Explanation:
In NEWS: PM Narendra Modi to inaugurate SEMICON India 2024
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate SEMICON India 2024 in Greater Noida today. The theme of the three-day event is “Shaping the Semiconductor Future.”
The conference will showcase India’s semiconductor strategy and policy which envisions making India a global hub for semiconductor. Hence statement 2 is correct.
Background – Announcements by Prime Minister:
- India aims to lead in semiconductor production, enhancing its position in the global tech industry.
- Objective: To equip every device with Indian-made chips, reducing reliance on imports.
- Goal: Make India’s electronics sector worth $500 billion by the end of the decade. Hence statement 1 is correct.
- Job Creation: Expected to create 6 million jobs, contributing significantly to the economy.
- Achievements: India has transitioned from being a major importer to the second largest producer and exporter of mobile phones.
- Multiplier Effect: Highlighting the broader impact of the Digital India initiative on the tech industry and job creation.
About SEMICON India 2024:
- It Involves the participation of top leadership from global semiconductor companies.
- Exhibitors and Speakers: More than 250 exhibitors and 150 speakers expected.
- It facilitates discussions on shaping the semiconductor ecosystem in India.
- It includes communication, defence, automobiles, and computing devices.
Strategic Importance of Semiconductors:
- Communication: Essential for modern telecommunication infrastructure.
- Defence: Critical for national security and advanced defense technologies.
- Automobiles: Integral to the development of modern, smart vehicles.
- Computing Devices: Core component for all computing devices and electronic gadgets.
- Growth Potential: India’s involvement in the semiconductor industry is crucial for global tech advancements.
- Strategic Position: Enhancing India’s role in the global semiconductor supply chain.
Source: https://www.newsonair.gov.in/pm-narendra-modi-to-inaugurate-semicon-india-2024/
10. Which Article of the Constitution of India safeguards one’s right to marry the person of one’s choice? (UPSC PYQ 2019)
- Article 19
- Article 21
- Article 25
- Article 29
Answer: (b) Article 21