1. Secondary Pollutants Constitute Up to One-Third of PM2.5 Pollution – Environment
Why in News?
A recent study by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) highlights that secondary pollutants, especially ammonium sulfate, account for nearly 34% of PM2.5 pollution across India.
Key Highlights from the Study
- 34% of PM2.5 pollution in India comes from ammonium sulfate, a secondary pollutant.
- Coal plants + fertilizers and waste → major sources contributing to ammonium sulfate formation.
- Only 8% of coal power plants have installed Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) units, despite regulatory requirements.
- PM2.5 levels due to ammonium sulfate are 2.5 times higher within 10 km of coal plants.
- In 130 Indian cities, ammonium sulfate contributes 20–43% of PM2.5; in 114 cities, the share exceeds 30%.
- Other secondary pollutants like ammonium nitrate can contribute up to 50% of PM2.5 pollution.
Understanding the Basics
Primary Air Pollutants (Direct emissions):
- Carbon monoxide (CO): From vehicle/stove combustion.
- Sulfur dioxide (SO₂): From sulfur-rich coal burning in power plants.
- Nitrogen oxides (NOₓ): From high-temperature combustion.
- Particulate Matter (PM): Dust, soot, smoke.
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): From fuel fumes, solvents.
Secondary Air Pollutants (Formed in atmosphere):
- Created by chemical reactions involving primary pollutants + sunlight/water vapor.
- Examples:
- Ammonium sulfate & nitrate
- Ground-level ozone (O₃)
- Acid rain components
- Photochemical smog
Policy Recommendations by CREA
- Accelerate Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) rollout in coal plants.
- Reform fertilizer usage to reduce ammonia emissions.
- Strengthen enforcement of pollution control laws.
Broader Implications
- Public Health: Exposure to PM2.5 linked with respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and premature deaths.
- Policy Failure: Lack of FGD implementation signals weak environmental governance.
- Climate-Energy Nexus: Need for clean coal technology and alternative energy transition.
Summary
Secondary pollutants like ammonium sulfate, formed from interactions between industrial emissions and fertilizers, contribute to one-third of India’s PM2.5 air pollution. The CREA study reveals how poorly regulated coal plants and fertilizer misuse amplify this problem. It calls for urgent policy enforcement, technological upgrades (like FGDs), and rethinking pollution sources to address the worsening air quality crisis.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
- Which of the following are secondary air pollutants?
1.Sulfur dioxide
2.Ammonium nitrate
3.Ground-level ozone
4.Nitrogen oxides
Select the correct answer:
A. 1 and 4 only
B.2 and 3 only
C. 2, 3, and 4 only
D. All of the above
Answer: B) 2 and 3 only
- Consider the following statements regarding PM2.5 pollution in India:
1. Ammonium sulfate is a primary pollutant emitted from coal plants.
2.Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) helps reduce SO₂ emissions.
3. Secondary pollutants are formed in the atmosphere from primary pollutants.
Which of the statements are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. All of the above
Answer: B. 2 and 3 only
Mains
- “Secondary air pollutants are emerging as a significant environmental and public health challenge in India.”
Examine the causes and consequences of secondary pollutants, especially in relation to PM2.5 pollution. Suggest policy measures to tackle the issue. (250 words) - Discuss the role of coal-based power plants and fertilizer use in exacerbating secondary air pollution in India. What reforms are necessary to address these sources effectively? (250 words)
2. A Year Later — Colonial-Era Laws to New Criminal Codes – Polity
Why in News?
In 2023, India replaced its colonial-era criminal laws with three new criminal codes, marking a significant legal reform. One year into their enforcement, their impact on policing, investigation, and legal infrastructure is beginning to show.
Key Highlights
- Break from Colonial Jurisprudence:
- The reforms replace outdated British-era laws like the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), and Indian Evidence Act.
- Emphasis on a justice system more aligned with democratic and constitutional values.
- Technological Modernization:
- Integration with Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS) enhances data-driven policing.
- The e-Sakshya mobile app (by NIC) allows real-time, geo-tagged, and time-stamped documentation of evidence.
- Forensic Mandate:
- Compulsory forensic expert presence in crime scene investigations to ensure scientific rigor.
- However, there’s a shortage of trained personnel and infrastructure, limiting the intended impact.
- Implementation Challenges:
- Lack of integration with judiciary systems, such as e-Courts.
- Use of personal devices for official documentation raises data privacy concerns.
- Legal ambiguities in some provisions of the new laws require judicial clarification.
- Need for Supportive Measures:
- Increase budgetary support for forensic and digital infrastructure.
- Develop training programs for investigators and law enforcement.
- Create inter-operable platforms linking police, forensic labs, and courts.
Understanding the Context
Old vs. New Criminal Laws
- Colonial Laws: Focused on punishment and control under British rule.
- New Criminal Codes: Aim to ensure citizen-centric, speedy justice, with modern processes like digital evidence, victim protection, and time-bound trials.
New Criminal Codes Introduced in 2023:
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) – replaces IPC
- Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) – replaces CrPC
- Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) – replaces Indian Evidence Act
Broader Implications
- Improved Accountability: Use of digital tools increases transparency.
- Legal Clarity Needed: Several provisions may require interpretation by the courts.
- Training & Capacity Building: New laws will be effective only with adequately trained law enforcement.
- Technology Dependency Risks: Without robust infrastructure, over-reliance on tech could hinder justice delivery.
Summary
India’s move to replace colonial-era criminal laws with three new codes in 2023 marks a paradigm shift toward modernizing the criminal justice system. While the reforms emphasize technology integration, forensic evidence, and citizen-centric justice, their success is hindered by operational gaps, such as weak digital infrastructure, limited forensic capacity, and implementation challenges. One year in, these laws show promise, but require sustained efforts in training, funding, and judicial clarity to ensure meaningful impact.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
- Which of the following correctly pairs the new criminal laws introduced in India with the colonial-era laws they replace?
1. Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita – Code of Criminal Procedure
2. Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita – Indian Penal Code
3. Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam – Indian Evidence Act
Select the correct answer:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. None of the above
Answer: B.3 only
(Correct pairing is: BNS → IPC, BNSS → CrPC, BSA → Indian Evidence Act)
- Consider the following statements regarding the recent criminal law reforms in India:
1.The e-Sakshya app was developed by the National Informatics Centre.
2. Forensic experts are now mandatorily required at all crime scenes.
3. CCTNS aims to digitally connect police stations across India.
Which of the above statements are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D.All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
Mains
- “The replacement of colonial-era criminal laws with new codes is a significant step toward a modern criminal justice system.”
Critically examine this statement with reference to implementation challenges and technological integration. (250 words) - Discuss the role of digital platforms and forensic practices in strengthening India’s new criminal justice architecture. What are the gaps and how can they be addressed? (250 words)
3. ECI’s Crackdown on Unrecognised Political Parties – Delisting of 345 Defaulters – Polity
Why in News?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has started the process of delisting 345 Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPPs) as part of a clean-up initiative targeting non-functional and non-compliant political entities.
Key Highlights
- 345 RUPPs delisted for:
- Not contesting any elections in the past six years.
- Not maintaining functional party offices.
- Failing to file mandatory financial and audit statements.
- The move is aimed at:
- Enhancing transparency in the electoral process.
- Preventing misuse of political party status for tax evasion and illegal financial activities.
- Show-cause notices were issued to multiple parties before delisting.
Understanding the Key Concepts
What Are RUPPs?
- Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPPs) are parties registered under Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, but:
- Have not secured enough votes or seats in recent elections.
- Are not officially recognized as State or National Parties by the ECI.
Benefits Enjoyed by RUPPs:
- Tax exemptions under Section 13A of the Income Tax Act.
- Eligibility for common poll symbols.
- Right to nominate star campaigners during elections.
Legal Protection:
- Article 19(1)(c) of the Constitution grants citizens the right to form associations, including political parties.
- However, ECI lacks explicit power to deregister political parties unless certain conditions are met (e.g., fraud or misuse of benefits).
Issues and Concerns
- Financial Irregularities: Some RUPPs have been used as fronts for money laundering, benefiting from tax exemptions without engaging in real political activity.
- Regulatory Gaps:
- ECI has no clear legal authority to deregister parties.
- Lack of mandatory inner-party democracy or transparency in party funding.
Reform Proposals
- Law Commission of India has recommended:
- Granting ECI the power to deregister non-functional parties.
- Enforcing disclosure norms, financial audits, and democratic processes within political parties.
- Enhanced scrutiny of political party finances by linking them with income tax authorities and compliance audits.
Broader Implications
- Electoral Integrity: Delisting reduces electoral clutter and misrepresentation.
- Democratic Accountability: Encourages genuine political engagement.
- Legal Gaps: Need for a statutory framework empowering the ECI to regulate and deregister parties systematically.
Summary
The ECI’s delisting of 345 RUPPs marks a critical step in strengthening electoral integrity and combating misuse of the political party framework for financial fraud. While this initiative reflects ECI’s proactive role, legal limitations still hinder its authority to deregister political parties. The episode underscores the urgent need for comprehensive electoral reforms, including stronger laws for political party registration, functioning, and accountability.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
- Which of the following statements correctly describes a Registered Unrecognised Political Party (RUPP)?
1. It is not registered with the ECI.
2. It has not secured sufficient votes or seats to be recognized as a State or National Party.
3. It cannot nominate star campaigners.
Select the correct answer:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. All of the above
Answer: B. 2 only
- Under which provision does the Election Commission of India register political parties?
A. Article 324 of the Constitution
B. Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951
C. Section 13A of the Income Tax Act
D. Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution
Answer: B. Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951
Mains
- “Registered Unrecognised Political Parties pose a challenge to electoral transparency and democratic accountability.”
Examine the recent steps taken by the Election Commission of India in this regard. What further reforms are needed to regulate such parties effectively? (250 words) - Discuss the legal and constitutional limitations of the Election Commission in deregistering political parties in India. Suggest legislative measures to strengthen its regulatory powers. (250 words)
4. National Statistics Day – Honouring P.C. Mahalanobis – Science and Technology
Why in News?
June 29 is annually observed as National Statistics Day in India, to commemorate the birth anniversary of Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, a pioneer of statistical science in India. The day recognizes the critical role of statistics in policymaking, governance, and national development.
Key Highlights
- Observed on: June 29, since 2007
- Organized by: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) and Indian Statistical Institute (ISI)
- Purpose: To raise awareness about the use of statistical tools and data analysis in shaping national policies and improving governance
- Annual Themes: Each year highlights a development challenge (e.g., data quality, health statistics, SDGs) to focus public and institutional attention
- Outreach Activities:
- Seminars, lectures, exhibitions, essay competitions, and training workshops across academic and policy institutions
Understanding the Context
Importance of Statistics in Governance
- Informs evidence-based policymaking
- Enables monitoring of development indicators, including SDGs
- Aids in resource allocation, disaster management, health surveillance, economic planning
Role of Statistical Institutions
- National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) – Large-scale socio-economic surveys
- Central Statistics Office (CSO) – Coordinates statistical activities across India
- ISI – Premier academic institution for research in statistics, data science, and mathematics
Who Was P.C. Mahalanobis?
Background
- Born: June 29, 1893, Kolkata
- Educated at Presidency College (Kolkata) and King’s College (Cambridge)
- Deeply influenced by Brahmo Samaj reformist ideals
Major Contributions
- National Sample Survey (1950)
- Revolutionized data collection for rural, health, consumption, and employment statistics
- Mahalanobis Distance (1936)
- A statistical metric used to detect outliers and anomalies in data sets
- Indian Statistical Institute (ISI)
- Founded in 1931, became a world leader in statistical education and research
- Sankhya Journal
- Premier journal to promote Indian statistical research
- Planning Commission & Second Five-Year Plan
- Architect of the Second Plan (1956–61) focused on industrialization and public sector expansion
- Flood Control & Infrastructure Vision
- Used statistical modelling for cost-effective flood relief in Bengal & Odisha
- Supported early proposals for the Hirakud Dam Project (completed 1957)
Legacy
- Known as the Father of Modern Indian Statistics
- Advocated for applied statistics in economic planning and public administration
- Balanced scientific inquiry with nation-building efforts
Broader Implications
- As data becomes central to governance, Mahalanobis’s work on large-scale surveys and analytical tools becomes even more relevant in the AI and big data age.
- National Statistics Day serves as a reminder of the need for data literacy among policymakers, administrators, and citizens.
- Emphasizes India’s indigenous contribution to global statistical science.
Summary
National Statistics Day, observed every June 29, commemorates P.C. Mahalanobis, a visionary who transformed India’s policy landscape through statistics. His contributions—from establishing the National Sample Survey, founding the Indian Statistical Institute, to influencing the Second Five-Year Plan—made data a core component of national development. The day reinforces the critical role of evidence-based governance in tackling India’s social and economic challenges.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
- Which of the following institutions was founded by P.C. Mahalanobis?
A. Indian Council of Social Science Research
B. National Sample Survey Office
C. Indian Statistical Institute
D. National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog)
Answer: C. Indian Statistical Institute
- What is the ‘Mahalanobis Distance’ primarily used for?
A. Calculating inflation rates
B. Identifying outliers in data sets
C. Measuring GDP growth
D. Determining population density
Answer: B. Identifying outliers in data sets
- National Statistics Day is celebrated to honour the contributions of which Indian statistician?
A. C.R. Rao
B. P.C. Mahalanobis
C. M.N. Srinivas
D. Vikram Sarabhai
Answer: B. P.C. Mahalanobis
Mains
- “The role of statistics in development planning is indispensable in a data-driven age.”
Discuss this statement in the context of P.C. Mahalanobis’s contributions to India’s planning and statistical infrastructure. (250 words) - How has the integration of statistical tools improved governance and policy implementation in India? Illustrate with recent examples. (250 words)
5. India’s First Genomic Atlas – Deep Ancestry and Health Insights – Science & Technology
Why in News?
A landmark study published in the Cell journal has created India’s first large-scale Genomic Atlas, sequencing the genomes of 2,762 individuals across 23 Indian states and union territories. This is the most comprehensive genetic map of Indian populations to date, with significant implications for ancestry research and healthcare innovation.
Key Highlights
- Participants: 2,762 individuals representing India’s diverse caste, tribal, linguistic, and regional groups.
- Data Generated: Over 2.6 crore (26 million) previously undocumented genetic variants discovered.
- Institutions Involved: Collaboration between Indian and international research institutes.
- Focus Areas:
- Ancestral mapping using molecular clock techniques.
- Impact of caste-based endogamy on health and genetic diversity.
- Discovery of variants associated with serious genetic disorders and drug reactions.
Scientific Tools and Concepts Used
Molecular Clocks:
- Technique to estimate time of divergence between species or populations based on genetic mutations over time.
Genomic Mapping:
- Studying a person’s entire DNA sequence to understand genetic variations, evolutionary history, and susceptibility to diseases.
Endogamy:
- Marriage within a specific community or group over generations, leading to genetic isolation and elevated risk of recessive disorders.
Key Scientific Findings
- Evidence of archaic human interbreeding: Indian genomes show traces of Neanderthal and Denisovan DNA.
- 7% of newly discovered protein-altering variants are linked to serious inherited diseases.
- A rare variant affecting response to anesthesia was found enriched in Telangana, indicating region-specific medical risks.
- Clear link between social structure (like caste) and genetic patterns, shaping health profiles.
Implications for India
Public Health & Personalized Medicine
- Integrating Indian genetic data into global health research enables customized treatment strategies.
- Helps identify population-specific disease risks and drug reactions.
Policy and Research Gaps
- Need to expand genomic coverage to more remote and isolated populations.
- Build national genomic databases for use in healthcare, agriculture, and anthropology.
Broader Implications
- Boosts India’s role in global precision medicine and genomic research.
- Reinforces need for ethical data governance, consent frameworks, and data protection laws in biomedical research.
- Encourages interdisciplinary collaboration across genetics, anthropology, healthcare, and public policy.
Summary
India’s first Genomic Atlas, published in Cell, marks a turning point in understanding the country’s genetic landscape. Covering 23 states and over 2,700 individuals, the study reveals how caste, region, and ancestry shape health outcomes. It identifies over 2.6 crore new genetic variants, offering a foundation for personalized healthcare, targeted therapies, and population-specific medical research. However, to realize its full potential, India must invest in inclusive genomic research, ethical oversight, and digital infrastructure for large-scale biobanks.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
- Which of the following statements is/are correct about India’s Genomic Atlas project?
1.It was published in the journal Nature.
2.It discovered over 2.6 crore new genetic variants.
3.It identified region-specific medical risks based on genomic data.
Select the correct answer:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. All of the above
Answer: B. 2 and 3 only
- What is the primary application of a molecular clock in genetics?
A. Measuring glucose levels in blood
B. Tracing human ancestry through genetic mutations
C. Measuring the decay of radioactive isotopes
D. Recording time-dependent changes in blood pressure
Answer: B. Tracing human ancestry through genetic mutations
Mains
- “India’s Genomic Atlas offers transformative potential in healthcare, but also raises ethical and regulatory challenges.”
Examine the significance of genomic mapping for public health and suggest policy measures to ensure ethical use of genetic data. (250 words) - Discuss how social structures like caste and regional endogamy influence genetic diversity in India. What lessons can be drawn from recent genomic research for policy and medicine? (250 words)
6. Key Legal Reforms May Unlock India’s Civil Nuclear Sector – Polity
Why in News?
India is preparing to implement key legislative reforms in its civil nuclear sector, including proposed amendments to the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 (CLNDA) and the Atomic Energy Act, 1962. These changes aim to unlock private and foreign investment and enhance India’s global nuclear cooperation.
Key Highlights
- Target Laws:
- CLNDA, 2010 – to address investor liability concerns.
- Atomic Energy Act, 1962 – to allow private sector participation in nuclear energy generation.
- Focus of Reforms:
- Dilution of Section 17(b) of CLNDA, which allows plant operators to seek compensation from suppliers.
- Clarification of “supplier” definition to protect small sub-vendors from undue liability.
- Introduction of liability caps:
- Linked to the original contract value.
- May include time-bound liability periods.
- Allowing private firms to operate nuclear power plants and foreign firms to take minority stakes.
Understanding the Legal Framework
Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 (CLNDA)
- Enacted to establish a liability regime in case of nuclear accidents.
- Grants nuclear plant operators the right to recourse (Section 17(b)) against suppliers in case of equipment failure or defects.
- Seen as a deterrent to foreign participation, especially from U.S. and European firms, due to open-ended liability.
Atomic Energy Act, 1962
- Vests the responsibility of nuclear energy generation solely with the Central Government.
- Private players are currently not allowed to construct or operate nuclear power plants.
Why the Reforms Matter
- Investor Confidence: Longstanding liability risks under CLNDA have deterred foreign technology providers.
- U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Agreement (2008): Yet to be fully realized due to unresolved liability and regulatory issues.
- Global Alignment: Amendments will align India’s law with the 1997 Convention on Supplementary Compensation (CSC), which India ratified in 2016.
Industrial & Strategic Implications
- The U.S. Department of Energy’s clearance for Holtec International to transfer technology to India signals increased strategic and commercial trust.
- Enhancing India’s civil nuclear sector aligns with:
- Energy diversification goals.
- Net-zero carbon commitments.
- Domestic industrial capacity building in high-tech sectors.
Summary
India is set to reform its nuclear liability regime through amendments to the CLNDA, 2010, and the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, aiming to open up the civil nuclear sector to private and foreign investments. Key changes include limiting supplier liability, redefining the term “supplier”, and allowing private operation of nuclear plants under regulatory oversight. These steps aim to align with international norms, enable full implementation of the India–U.S. civil nuclear deal, and revive India’s nuclear energy potential amid growing clean energy needs and industrial ambitions.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims
- Section 17(b) of the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, relates to which of the following?
A. Environmental clearance for nuclear plants
B. Exclusive rights of the Central Government to operate nuclear plants
C. Operator’s right to seek recourse against suppliers
D. Tariff setting for nuclear-generated electricity
Answer: C. Operator’s right to seek recourse against suppliers
- Which international convention governs nuclear damage compensation and is relevant to India’s liability reforms?
A. Paris Agreement
B. Hague Convention
C. Convention on Supplementary Compensation (CSC), 1997
D. Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), 1968
Answer: C. Convention on Supplementary Compensation (CSC), 1997
- Consider the following statements:
1. The Atomic Energy Act, 1962, currently permits private companies to operate nuclear reactors in India.
2. India ratified the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage in 2016.
3. Holtec International is a U.S.-based nuclear technology firm.
Which of the above statements are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. All of the above
Answer: B. 2 and 3 only
Mains
- “Legal rigidity in India’s civil nuclear framework has hindered the full realization of its global partnerships.”
Critically examine this statement in the context of the CLNDA, 2010 and the proposed reforms. (250 words) - Discuss the significance of opening India’s nuclear energy sector to private and foreign investment. What safeguards must be in place to balance commercial freedom with public safety? (250 words)