RAJ IAS ACADEMY 28th December, 2024 Page 1

RAJ MALHOTRA’S IAS ACADEMY, CHANDIGARH

PRELIMS BOOSTER 2
Domestic Migration in India 2
World’s largest hydropower dam in Tibet 3
Veer Baal Diwas 4
SWAMITVA Scheme 5
Kaveri Engine 5
United Nations Disengagement Observer Force 6
AI and Machine Learning 6
Wealth Tax 7
Tribal suicides in Kerala 7
Tiger Translocation from Madhya Pradesh 8
Bald Eagle 9
MCQs 10
EDITORIAL SIMPLIFIED 12
Strengthening fisheries extension services in India 12
Tapping into Kazakhstan’s Rare Earth potential 13
RAJ IAS ACADEMY 28th December, 2024 Page 2

PRELIMS BOOSTER
Domestic Migration in India
Domestic migration in India has witnessed a significant slowdown, with the total number of
migrants declining by 11.78% from 2011 to 2023.
A recent working paper by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), titled
“400 Million Dreams!”, highlights key trends, reasons for the decline, and changes in migration
patterns.

What is Migration?
• Meaning —
• Migration is the movement of people away from their usual place of residence, either
internal (within the country) or international (across countries) borders.
• The migration arising out of various social, economic, or political reasons helps in
understanding the dynamics of the society better.
• Various forms and patterns of migration —
• Internal migration (rural-urban, intra-state, inter-state, etc.) refers to migration from one
place to another within a country, while external migration or international migration
refers to migration from one country to another.
• Forced migration refers to migration that is not chosen by the individual or family but is
forced upon them by factors such as war, persecution, or natural disasters.
• Voluntary migration refers to migration that is chosen by the individual or family, driven by
factors such as better economic opportunities or a desire for a better life.
• Temporary migration refers to migration that is intended to be of short duration, such as
seasonal or temporary work.
• Permanent migration refers to migration that is intended to be of long duration, intending
to settle permanently in a new place.
• Reverse migration refers to the migration of individuals or families (who have previously
migrated), back to their country of origin or their original place of residence.

Methodology Used by the EAC-PM for Finding Domestic Migration in India -

• The report used 3 datasets to estimate migration trends —
• Indian Railway Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS) for passenger volumes.
• TRAI mobile roaming data to study seasonal movement.
• District-level banking data for remittances.
• These alternative sources were employed due to delays in the decennial Census, which is a
more comprehensive but less timely data source.

Key Findings EAC-PM Paper on Domestic Migration in India -

• Decline in migration numbers —
• Overall reduction: The number of migrants reduced from 45.57 crore (2011 Census) to
40.20 crore (2023).
• Migration rate: The migration rate dropped from 37.64% in 2011 to 28.88% in 2023.
• Improved economic opportunities —
• Migration is slowing due to better economic opportunities in smaller cities, improved
infrastructure, and access to education and healthcare near traditional migration hubs.
• This shift indicates overall economic growth in source regions.
• Recipient states —
• Top recipient states: UP, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh remain prominent, while West
Bengal and Rajasthan are new entrants, replacing Andhra Pradesh and Bihar.
• Growth patterns: States like West Bengal, Rajasthan, and Karnataka showed the highest
growth in migrant arrivals, whereas Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh experienced a decline.
• Regional migration trends —
• Top origin districts: Areas around major urban centres like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai,
Bangalore, and Kolkata remain prominent sources.
RAJ IAS ACADEMY 28th December, 2024 Page 3
• Top destination districts: Mumbai, Bengaluru urban, Howrah, Central Delhi, and
Hyderabad are key destinations.
• Seasonality of migration —
• Peak migration movements occur during April-June, with secondary peaks in November-
December.
• Post-pandemic data shows reduced passenger movement during these high months, with
May 2023 levels 6.67% lower than May 2012.

Challenges in Migration Data -

• The lack of regular and granular data poses challenges in understanding migration patterns.
• Existing reports, such as the MoSPI Migration in India 2020-21 and the Ministry of Housing and
Urban Poverty Alleviation (MoHUPA) Working Group Report on Migration (2017), highlight
limitations in tracking trends effectively.

Conclusion -
• The slowdown in domestic migration reflects economic growth and regional development but
underscores the need for improved data collection mechanisms.
• Accurate and timely data is crucial for policy formulation to address migration-related
challenges and opportunities effectively.

World’s largest hydropower dam in Tibet

China has approved the construction of the world's largest hydropower dam on the lower reaches
of the Yarlung Zangbo River (Brahmaputra) on the Tibetan plateau. The ambitious project aims to
produce 300 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually, more than tripling the capacity of
the Three Gorges Dam, the current world leader in hydropower.

Course of the river Brahmaputra -

• The Brahmaputra, originating in Tibet as the Yarlung Tsangpo, flows through India’s Arunachal
Pradesh and Assam before entering Bangladesh and emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
• As a perennial river, it sustains communities through irrigation, fisheries, and inland transport.
• While it enriches agriculture by depositing fertile alluvial soil, its lower course poses challenges
with recurring, devastating floods in Assam and Bangladesh due to climatic and geographical
conditions.

China’s Brahmaputra Dam project -

• About —
• China is constructing the dam in Medog County, Tibet Autonomous Region, where the
Yarlung Tsangpo drops 2,000 meters, creating ideal hydropower conditions.
• The project is part of China’s renewable energy initiatives, aiming to achieve carbon
neutrality by 2060 while promoting regional development in Tibet.
• The project, costing $137 billion, is part of China's 14th Five-Year Plan (2021–2025) and
Long-Range Objectives through 2035.
• Scale and Significance of the Project —
• The dam is projected to generate up to 60 gigawatts of power, triple the capacity of the
Three Gorges Dam.
• It will produce 300 billion kWh of clean, renewable electricity annually, supporting Beijing’s
clean energy targets and bolstering water security.
• The project will generate 20 billion yuan ($3 billion) annually for Tibet.

Concerns and implications of China's Tibet dam project on India -

• Agriculture —
• The dam could retain a significant amount of silt, which is crucial for downstream
agriculture. Reduced silt deposits may negatively impact the fertility of agricultural lands in
India.
• Water Resources —
• China claims the dam is a run-of-the-river hydropower project.
RAJ IAS ACADEMY 28th December, 2024 Page 4
• However, experts warn it could reduce water flow downstream during dry seasons and
exacerbate flooding during monsoons if excess water is released, potentially causing
disasters in Assam.
• Potential Use of Water as a Weapon —
• China’s upstream position gives it control over the Brahmaputra’s flow.
• During geopolitical tensions, such as the 2017 Doklam standoff, China withheld hydrological
data crucial for flood forecasting, raising concerns over the weaponisation of water
resources.
• Seismological Threats —
• The Himalayan region's seismic vulnerability could pose risks to downstream populations
due to the scale of infrastructure projects like this dam.
• Ecological Impact —
• The dam could disrupt the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, home to critically endangered
species.
• Combined with ongoing climate change effects, deforestation, and soil erosion, the
ecological consequences may be severe.

India’s Response -
• India has urged China to safeguard downstream interests.
• Additionally, India is planning a 10 GW hydropower project in the Dibang Valley, Arunachal
Pradesh, to counterbalance the potential impacts of China’s dam.
• Also, data sharing between India and China on trans-border rivers, established under the Expert
Level Mechanism (ELM) in 2006, remains critical.

Veer Baal Diwas

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in the 3rd Veer Baal Diwas, commemorating the
bravery and sacrifice of the Sahibzades.
He described the day as a festival of inspiration for Indians, particularly the youth, and lauded 17
children conferred with Veer Baal Awards in various fields such as bravery, innovation, sports, and
arts.

Vir Bal Diwas -

• About —
• On 9th January 2022, the day of the Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the PM had
announced that 26th December would be observed as ‘Veer Bal Diwas’.
• This was announced to mark the martyrdom of sons of Sri Guru Gobind Singh - Sahibzadas
Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji.
• Sacrifices made by the sons of Guru Gobind Singh —
• While two of Guru Gobind Singh’s sons were killed fighting the Mughals, two other sons
were bricked alive on the orders of Aurangzeb’s governor of Sirhind.
• The two younger sons, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh ji and Sahibzada Fateh Singh ji, attained
martyrdom after being sealed alive in a wall.
• Veer Baal Diwas is observed on the same day the two younger sons, Sahibzada Zorawar
Singh ji and Sahibzada Fateh Singh ji, attained martyrdom.

Key highlights of the speech delivered by PM Modi -

• Tributes to Sahibzades and Teachings on National Integrity —
• The PM paid homage to Sahib Zorawar Singh, Sahib Fateh Singh, and Gurus, highlighting
their unmatched courage and sacrifice.
• He emphasised the importance of instilling patriotism among youth and drawing inspiration
from the Sahibzadas' unwavering faith and bravery.
• Veer Baal Diwas serves as a reminder that the nation and its interests should always come
first.
• Youth Empowerment: A Pillar of Development —
• PM Modi underlined the role of youth in India’s progress, from independence movements to
modern revolutions.
• The government has prioritised youth-centric policies, including initiatives in start-ups, AI,
machine learning, skill development, and sports.
RAJ IAS ACADEMY 28th December, 2024 Page 5
• Over 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs and the 'Mera Yuva Bharat' campaign have been
launched to encourage innovation and societal contribution among youth.
• Health and Fitness Initiatives —
• The Prime Minister launched the 'Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan,' aimed at eliminating
malnutrition through healthy competition among village panchayats.
• It aims at improving the nutritional outcomes and well-being by strengthening
implementation of nutrition related services and by ensuring active community
participation.
• The programme will involve a competition among anganwadis.
• A total of 1,000 gram panchayats will get Rs 1 lakh while a part of this amount will be
used for better nutrition in the anganwadis.
• He emphasised the importance of fitness through 'Fit India' and 'Khelo India' movements,
highlighting the link between a healthy youth and a capable nation.
• Vision for India's Future —
• PM Modi encouraged youth to aim for excellence in all fields, including infrastructure,
manufacturing, tourism, and space research.
• He expressed confidence in the youth’s ability to lead global revolutions and achieve the
goals of a developed India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• Political Engagement of Youth —
• PM unveiled his vision of bringing one lakh youth into politics, particularly those from non-
political backgrounds.
• He announced the launch of the 'Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue' on Swami
Vivekananda's birth anniversary to discuss India's roadmap for development.

SWAMITVA Scheme
The Prime Minister of India will distribute over 50 lakh property cards under SVAMITVA Scheme
on 27th December.

About SVAMITVA Scheme -

• The Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas (SVAMITVA) is
a central sector scheme, launched in 2020.
• It was launched with a vision to enhance the economic progress of rural India by providing
‘Record of Rights’ to households possessing houses in inhabited areas in villages through the
latest surveying drone technology.
• The scheme seeks to achieve the following objectives:
• To bring financial stability to the citizens in rural India by enabling them to use their property as
a financial asset for taking loans and other financial benefits.
• Creation of accurate land records for rural planning.
• Determination of property tax, which would accrue to the GPs directly in States where it is
devolved or else, add to the State exchequer.
• Creation of survey infrastructure and GIS maps that can be leveraged by any department for
their use.
• To support in preparation of better-quality Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP) by
making use of GIS maps.
• To reduce property related disputes and legal cases.
• Nodal Ministry: The Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) is the Nodal Ministry for
implementation of the scheme.

Kaveri Engine
India’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), part of the Defence Research and
Development Organisation (DRDO), has announced that the Kaveri engine has been cleared for
inflight testing.

About Kaveri Engine -

• The Kaveri engine project began in the late 1980s with the goal of powering the Light Combat
Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.
RAJ IAS ACADEMY 28th December, 2024 Page 6
• It has been developed by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment under the Defence
Research and Development Organisation.
• Features —
• The current version of the Kaveri engine produces approximately 49-51 kN of thrust.
• This thrust level is suitable for UAV applications like the Ghatak, India's stealth UCAV
program. The DRDO plans to integrate an afterburner to increase the thrust to 73-75 kN for
more demanding scenarios.
• The Kaveri engine has undergone extensive ground testing, modifications, and
enhancements over the years.
• It has been tested in high-altitude simulations in Russia and ground trials in India. These
tests demonstrated promising results in reliability, thrust output, and operational stability,
meeting the required performance metrics for inflight testing.
• Significance — This signifies a major step for India's self-reliance in aero-engine technology,
particularly for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) like the Ghatak stealth UCAV program.

United Nations Disengagement Observer Force

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has paid tributes to Brigadier General Amitabh Jha of
India, who was serving with the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) at Golan
Heights.

About UNDOF -
• It was established by UN Security Council Resolution 350 (1974) on 31 May 1974 immediately
following disengagement of Forces Agreement between Israel and Syria.
• Mandate: To maintain the ceasefire and supervise the area of separation — a demilitarised
buffer zone — as well as the area of limitation — where Israeli and Syrian troops and equipment
are restricted — in the Golan.
• The mandate of the mission is regularly renewed every six months and it has been
extended till June 2025.
• Method of financing — UNDOF is funded through a separate account approved on an annual
basis by the UN General Assembly.
• India is the top third troop and police contributing countries to this mission.
• Headquarter — Camp Faouar, Syria

Key points about Golan Heights -

• It is a hilly area overlooking the upper Jordan River valley on the west.
• It is a Syrian territory occupied by Israel since 1967.
• Borders — It is bounded by the Jordan River and the Sea of Galileeon the west, Mount
Hermon on the north, the seasonal Wadi Al-Ruqqād River on the east, and the Yarmūk River on
the south.

AI and Machine Learning

AI and machine learning to help the Indian pharma industry to pivot innovation.

What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

• AI refers to machines performing human-like tasks such as learning, reasoning, and decision-
making.
• Core components include —
• Machine Learning (ML): Algorithms that improve over time with data.
• Neural Networks: Mimicking the human brain for pattern recognition.
• Natural Language Processing (NLP): Enabling machines to understand and generate
human language.
• AI systems process inputs, apply algorithms and deliver intelligent outputs.

Types of Artificial Intelligence -

• Narrow AI: Task-specific systems like virtual assistants (e.g., Alexa, Siri).
RAJ IAS ACADEMY 28th December, 2024 Page 7
• General AI: Mimics human intelligence across diverse tasks (yet to be achieved).
• Super AI: A hypothetical future form surpassing human intelligence.

AI Techniques in Machine Learning -

• Supervised Learning: Uses labelled data to predict outcomes (e.g., facial recognition).
• Unsupervised Learning: Identifies patterns in unlabelled data (e.g., clustering algorithms).

How does AI work?

• Data acquisition: Collect and preprocess data.
• Feature extraction: Identify relevant patterns in the data.
• Algorithm selection and training: Use machine learning, deep learning, or rule-based
methods to create models.
• Evaluation and deployment: Optimise and deploy models to make intelligent predictions or
decisions.

Indian Pharmaceutical Industry’s Growth Potential -

• Current market size: Approximately USD 58 billion, expected to grow to USD 120-130 billion
by 2030.
• Global contribution: India contributes about 20% of the global generic drug supply, focusing
on affordability and quality.
• Policy support and digital talent: India is leveraging favourable policies, a skilled workforce,
and digital innovation to strengthen its global healthcare position.

Wealth Tax
Should wealth tax be brought back to address inequality in India?

About Wealth Tax -

• Wealth Tax is levied on the net market value of various assets owned by an individual, such as
cash, bank deposits, shares, fixed assets, personal cars, and real property.
• Globally, several countries like France, Portugal, and Spain impose wealth tax.
• The primary objective of the tax is to target unproductive and non-essential assets of
individuals.

Wealth Tax in India -

• Introduction — The Wealth Tax Act was introduced in 1957 based on the recommendations of
the Kaldor Committee (1955) as a part of tax rationalisation measures.
• It imposed a 1% tax on earnings exceeding ₹30 lakh per annum for individuals, Hindu
Undivided Families (HUFs), and companies.
• Abolition — Abolished in 2015 due to issues such as Extensive litigation, Increased
compliance burden, and High administrative costs.
• Replaced by an increase in the surcharge on the super-rich.
• Replacement measures — The surcharge for individuals with income exceeding ₹1 crore and
companies with income over ₹10 crore was increased from 2% to 12%.

Other Relevant Economic Concepts -

• Tobin Tax: A tax on financial transactions, especially currency exchanges.
• Pigovian Tax: Levied to correct negative externalities (e.g., pollution tax).
• Laffer Curve: Demonstrates the relationship between tax rates and tax revenue.
• Tax-GDP Ratio: Indicates the tax revenue as a percentage of GDP, critical for fiscal analysis.

Tribal suicides in Kerala

The NHRC took suo motu cognisance of a news report highlighting an alarming rise in suicides
among the tribal population in Kerala’s Peringammala Panchayat in Thiruvananthapuram district.
RAJ IAS ACADEMY 28th December, 2024 Page 8
The report revealed that 23 suicides occurred in 2024, following 138 suicides in the region
between 2011 and 2022.

About National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) -

• The NHRC is an independent statutory body established on October 12, 1993, under the
Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
• It serves as a guardian of human rights in India, overseeing the rights associated with life,
liberty, equality, and dignity as guaranteed by the Constitution of India and international
covenants.
• The NHRC aligns with the Paris Principles on Human Rights, ensuring accountability and
compliance.

Definition of Human Rights -

According to Section 2(1)(d) of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, human rights
encompass the rights related to life, liberty, equality, and dignity protected by the Constitution
or outlined in international treaties enforceable in Indian courts.

NHRC Composition -
• The NHRC is a multi-member body, comprising —
• Full-Time Members —
• A chairperson (retired Chief Justice of India or Supreme Court judge).
• Members include a sitting/retired Supreme Court judge, a Chief Justice of a High Court,
and three experts in human rights (one must be a woman).
• Ex-Officio Members: Chairpersons of —
• National Commission for Minorities, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Women,
Backward Classes, Protection of Child Rights, and Chief Commissioner for Persons with
Disabilities.

Appointment -
• Members are appointed by the President of India based on recommendations from a six-
member committee led by the Prime Minister, with participation from —
• Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha,
• Leaders of the Opposition in both Houses of Parliament,
• Union Home Minister.
• Consultation with the Chief Justice of India is required for appointing judicial members.

Tenure and Conditions of Service -

• Term: 3 years or up to 70 years of age (whichever is earlier).
• Reappointment: Allowed after completing the term.
• After tenure, members cannot seek employment with the Central or State governments.

Salaries and Allowances —

Determined by the Central Government, but terms cannot be altered to members’ disadvantage
post-appointment.

Removal Process -
• The President of India can remove members on grounds such as:
• Insolvency, paid employment outside office, physical/mental incapacity, unsound mind, or
criminal conviction.
• For misconduct or incapacity, the matter is referred to the Supreme Court for inquiry, and
removal is based on its recommendation.

Tiger Translocation from Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh to translocate 15 tigers to Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and Odisha.

Overview -
RAJ IAS ACADEMY 28th December, 2024 Page 9
• The Madhya Pradesh government has announced the translocation of 15 tigers to
Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.
• This initiative involves 12 tigresses and 3 tigers, subject to approval from the Central
Government.
• The tigers will be relocated from the Bandhavgarh, Pench, and Kanha Tiger Reserves.

About Kanha Tiger Reserve (KTR) -

• Kanha Tiger Reserve, also known as Kanha National Park, is the largest national park in
Madhya Pradesh.
• Location — Spread across Mandla and Balaghat districts, nestled in the Maikal range of
Satpuras, forming part of the Central Indian Highlands.
• History — It was established as a national park on June 1, 1955, and Declared a Tiger
Reserve in 1973.
• Cultural Reference — The reserve inspired Rudyard Kipling’s "The Jungle Book".
• Mascot — It was the first in India to introduce an official mascot, Bhoorsingh the Barasingha.
• Flora —
• Lowland Forests are dominated by sal (Shorea robusta) and mixed forest trees
interspersed with meadows.
• Highland Forests consist of tropical moist deciduous trees with bamboo
(Dendrocalamus strictus) on slopes.
• Fauna — Significant populations of Royal Bengal Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and Indian
wild dogs. Globally renowned for saving the Barasingha (state animal of Madhya Pradesh)
from extinction.

About Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve -

• Located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve lies between
the Vindhyan and Satpura ranges.
• It was declared a national park in 1968 and became a Tiger Reserve in 1993.
• Cultural Significance — Home to the Bandhavgarh Fort, said to have been gifted by Lord
Rama to his brother Lakshmana, lending the name Bandhavgarh ("Brother’s Fort").
• Flora — Dominated by tropical moist deciduous forests, sal trees, grasslands, and bamboo
on lower slopes. Notable species include Saj, Dhaora, Tendu, Arjun, Amla, and Palas.
• Fauna — Known for the highest density of Royal Bengal Tigers in India and the world. Other
species like Leopards, wild dogs, wolves, jackals, chital, sambar, barking deer, nilgai, and
chowsingha.

About Pench Tiger Reserve -

• Pench Tiger Reserve spans the Seoni and Chhindwara districts in Madhya Pradesh and
extends into the Nagpur district in Maharashtra.
• The Pench River, flowing north to south through the reserve.
• Components — Includes the Indira Priyadarshini Pench National Park, Pench Mowgli
Sanctuary, and a buffer zone.
• Cultural connection — Inspired by Rudyard Kipling’s "The Jungle Book".
• Terrain — Undulating landscape with small hills and steep slopes.
• Vegetation — Mosaic of vegetation types, from moist valleys to dry deciduous forests.
• Flora — Diverse flora includes teak, saag, mahua, and various grasses and shrubs.
• Fauna — Abundant populations of Chital, Sambar, Nilgai, Gaur (Indian Bison), and wild boar.
• Key predators: Tiger, followed by leopard, wild dogs, and wolf.
• Rich avian diversity with over 325 species of birds, including the Malabar Pied Hornbill,
Indian Pitta, and Grey-Headed Fishing Eagle.

Bald Eagle
Recently, Bald eagle was officially declared as United States national bird after 250 years.

About Bald Eagle -

RAJ IAS ACADEMY 28th December, 2024 Page 10
• The Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is a magnificent bird of prey found in North
America.
• It usually leads a solitary life, gathering in groups during nesting season.
• Appearance —
• Its body and wings are dark browns in color while the head and tail are white.
• The legs and feet are bright yellow and the eyes are light yellow.
• Males of this species are smaller than females.
• Habitat — It typically prefers areas near large water bodies such as sea coasts, coastal
estuaries and inland lakes and rivers, in many areas,
• Reproduction — Bald eagles have a monogamous mating system. These birds are believed
to mate for life, or until a pair member dies.
• Distribution — Their range extends from the Mexico border through the United States and
Canada.
• They can be seen year-round in Alaska, along the East and West coasts, the Rocky Mountains,
and the Mississippi River.
• The rest of the United States only sees bald eagles during the winter and their migration.
• Conservation status —
• IUCN: Least Concern

MCQs
1. Which of the following is/are not the tributary(ies) of the Brahmaputra river?
1. Manas
2. Subansiri
3. Kopilli
4. Teesta

Select the correct codes from below -

A. 1 and 4 only
B. 3 only
C. 4 only
D. All of them are tributaries of Brahmaputra

Answer - D

Explanation - About Brahmaputra River -

• Brahmaputra river originates from Chemayungdung glacier in Kailash
• It passes in Indus-Tsangpo Suture Zone (between Great Himalayas and Kailash range).
• It enters into India as Dibang.
• It enters into Assam Plains near Sadiya.
• After Sadiya it is known as Brahmaputra.
• Tributaries - Manas, Subansiri, Dhansiri, Dibang, Lohit, Teesta and Kopilli
• It enters into Bangladesh as Jamuna.
• When Jamuna merges with Ganga, it is unitedly known as Padma.
• When Meghana river joins Padma, it is unitedly known as ‘Meghna’.
• The Brahmaputra drains into the Bay of Bengal before forming a huge delta along with the
Ganga.

2. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct about the ‘Brahmaputra River System’?
1. It originates in Chemayungdung Glacier in Kailash.
2. When it enters into India, it is known as Brahmaputra.
3. In Bangladesh, it is known as Jamuna.

Select the correct codes from below -

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. All of the above
RAJ IAS ACADEMY 28th December, 2024 Page 11

Answer - C

Explanation - About Brahmaputra River -

• Brahmaputra river originates from Chemayungdung glacier in Kailash
• It passes in Indus-Tsangpo Suture Zone (between Great Himalayas and Kailash range).
• It enters into India as Dibang.
• It enters into Assam Plains near Sadiya.
• After Sadiya it is known as Brahmaputra.
• Tributaries - Manas, Subansiri, Dhansiri, Dibang, Lohit, Teesta and Kopilli
• It enters into Bangladesh as Jamuna.
• When Jamuna merges with Ganga, it is unitedly known as Padma.
• When Meghana river joins Padma, it is unitedly known as ‘Meghna’.
• The Brahmaputra drains into the Bay of Bengal before forming a huge delta along with the
Ganga.

3. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?

1. All four sons of Guru Gobind Singh ji were initiated into the Khalsa and all were executed by
the Mughal forces before the age of 19.
2. The birth anniversary of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh is marked as
‘Veer Baal Diwas’ in India since 2022.

Select the correct codes from below -

A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer - A

Explanation - In 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the government’s decision
to mark December 26 as Veer Bal Diwas in the memory of Guru Gobind Singh’s sons.
Guru Gobind Singh ji had four sons – Sahibzada Ajit Singh, Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, Sahibzada
Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh. All four of his sons were initiated into the Khalsa and
all were executed by Mughal forces before the age of 19. Sikhism honours the illustrious
martyred sons of Guru Gobind Singh ji in the prayer of ardas for their valor and sacrifice as ‘Char
Sahibzade’, that is the four princes of the Khalsa warrior order.
On December 26th, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh attained martyrdom
when they were executed by the Mughals in 1705. The brothers were captured with their
grandmother Mata Gujari, the mother of Guru Gobind Singh. They were imprisoned with their
grandmother and put to death by cruel Mughals on the orders of Aurangzeb, who attempted to
suffocate them inside a brick enclosure. At the time of martyrdom, the ages of Zorawar Singh
and Fateh Singh were 9 years and 6 years respectively. This sacrifice is seen as the bravest
sacrifice for Dharma by any young boys in Indian history.

4. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct about the 'SVAMITVA Scheme’?
1. It aims to provide the ‘record of rights’ to village household owners in rural areas and issue
Property Cards.
2. The scheme is valid only in the 117 identified aspirational districts of India.
3. The scheme is a Central Sector Scheme.

Select the correct codes from below -

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. All of the above

Answer - C
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Explanation - SVAMITVA is a Central Sector Scheme of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, which
was launched by the Prime Minister on National Panchayati Raj Day, 24th April 2020.The scheme
aims to provide the ‘record of rights’ to village household owners in rural areas and issue
Property Cards. The Scheme is being implemented across the country in a phased manner over
a period of four years (2020-2024) and would eventually cover around 6.62 lakh villages of
the country. About 1 lakh villages in the States of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Maharashtra, Madhya
Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Karnataka, and few border villages of Punjab & Rajasthan, along with
establishment of Continuous Operating System (CORS) stations’ network across Punjab &
Rajasthan, are being covered in the Pilot phase (2020-21). All these six States have signed MoU
with Survey of India for drone survey of rural areas and implementation of the scheme. These
States have finalised the digital property card format and the villages to be covered for
drone-based survey.

5. Which of the following national parks have the highest density of tiger population in
India?
A. Sunderbans
B. Bandhavgarh
C. Jim Corbett
D. Bandipur

Answer - B

Explanation - Bandhavgarh National Park is spread at Vindhya hills in Madhya Pradesh. It is

known for the Royal Bengal Tigers. The density of the Tiger population at Bandhavgarh is the
highest known in India.

EDITORIAL SIMPLIFIED
Strengthening fisheries extension services in India
India, with its diverse aquatic resources, plays a pivotal role in global fisheries and aquaculture.
The sector provides livelihood to more than 25 million fishers and fish farmers at the primary
level and twice the number along the value chain.
India is the 3rd largest fish producing country, contributing 8 percent to the global fish
production and ranks 2nd in aquaculture production.
The fish production in 2021-22 is 16.24 Million Tonnes (MTs) comprising of marine fish production
of 4.12 MTs and 12.12 MTs from Aquaculture.

Importance of Fisheries Extension Services -

• Fisheries extension services bridge the gap between scientific advancements and fish farmers'
practices, ensuring:
• Knowledge Transfer: Guidance on species lifecycle management, water quality, disease
control, and rearing technologies.
• Capacity Building: Training on sustainable practices and promoting fisheries as viable
business models.
• Sustainable Practices: Addressing the challenges posed by climate change and overfishing
through regenerative and conservation management.

Key Government Initiatives -

• Matsya Seva Kendras (MSKs) —
• Launched under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), MSKs serve as
one-stop centres for fisheries-related services.
• Role and Features:
• Provide disease testing and water/soil analysis.
• Train fishers on seed/feed technology and sustainable practices.
RAJ IAS ACADEMY 28th December, 2024 Page 13
• Mobilise startups, cooperatives, self-help groups, and Fish Farmer Producer
Organisations (FFPOs) to share best practices.
• Examples:
• MSK in Thrissur, Kerala: Offers advanced water and soil testing services.
• MSKs in Nasik and Sangli, Maharashtra: Focus on capacity building with technological
inputs.
• Sagar Mitras —
• Deployed in coastal states and union territories, Sagar Mitras act as intermediaries
between the government and marine fishers.
• Key Functions:
• Provide information on weather forecasts, fishing zones, and marketing needs.
• Educate fishers on local regulations, hygienic fish handling, and disaster preparedness.
• Digital Platforms —
• AquaBazaar: A virtual learning platform initiated by the National Fisheries Development
Board. It offers:
• Expert guidance on breeding and seed production.
• Practical demonstrations to enhance fishers' knowledge.
• World Bank-Assisted Project —
• Aims to formalise the fisheries and aquaculture sector by creating work-based digital
identities for fishers and fish farmers.
• Focuses on capacity building, awareness generation, and streamlining extension services.

Challenges in Fisheries Extension Services -

• Fragmentation — Lack of coordination among multiple initiatives.
• Digital Divide — Limited digital literacy and infrastructure in rural areas.
• Climate Change — Unpredictable weather patterns and resource depletion demand adaptive
strategies.

Way Forward -
• Institutional Convergence — Integrate fisheries extension services with the Krishi Vigyan
Kendras (KVKs) and state agricultural departments to leverage existing networks.
• Promote Digital Outreach — Expand platforms like AquaBazaar to ensure wider access to
knowledge and training.
• Public-Private Partnerships — Encourage private sector involvement in technology
dissemination and capacity building.
• Focus on Climate Resilience — Develop strategies for sustainable resource management in the
face of environmental changes.

Conclusion -
• Strengthening fisheries extension services is critical to sustaining India’s growth in the fisheries
and aquaculture sector.
• By enhancing last-mile connectivity, integrating digital tools, and fostering collaborations, India
can empower its fishers and fish farmers to adopt sustainable practices and contribute to the
nation’s economic and ecological well-being.

Source - The Hindu

QUESTION - Despite significant strides in India's fisheries sector, challenges persist in

effectively disseminating scientific knowledge and best practices to fishers and farmers.
Critically examine the role of fisheries extension services in addressing these challenges.
Analyse the strengths and weaknesses of existing initiatives like Matsya Seva Kendras and
Sagar Mitras. Suggest concrete measures to improve the reach, effectiveness, and
sustainability of fisheries extension services in India.

Tapping into Kazakhstan’s Rare Earth potential

RAJ IAS ACADEMY 28th December, 2024 Page 14
As the global shift toward renewable energy accelerates, rare earth elements (REEs) have become
vital for enabling cleaner technologies. India, the third-largest carbon emitter globally, faces a
growing need for rare earths as it transitions to sustainable energy sources.
Despite being the fifth-largest holder of REE reserves, India heavily depends on imports from
China due to insufficient domestic extraction technologies. However, geopolitical tensions
and supply chain disruptions have prompted India to diversify its sources, with Kazakhstan
emerging as a promising alternative.

Understanding the Strategic Challenge of China’s Rare Earth Monopoly -

• Geopolitical Leverage and Economic Influence —
• China has frequently leveraged its monopoly in rare earth elements as a geopolitical
tool, disrupting supplies to assert its strategic interests.
• For instance, it has imposed export restrictions or outright bans on critical minerals
during diplomatic standoffs.
• A recent example is its halt on antimony supplies, a mineral integral to flame retardants,
batteries, solar cells, and military applications, under the pretext of national security.
• Additionally, in December 2023, Beijing implemented a ban on exporting technologies
related to rare earth extraction and magnet production, further consolidating its grip on
the sector.
• Such actions illustrate how China wields its dominance not just for economic advantage
but also to influence global trade dynamics.
• Concentrated Supply Chains and Global Dependence —
• China's control over the rare earth industry also stems from its vertically integrated
supply chain.
• It not only mines the resources but also processes them and manufactures high-value
products like permanent magnets, which are essential for wind turbines, electric vehicles,
and defence technologies.
• This comprehensive control ensures that nations reliant on rare earth imports have
limited alternatives, further entrenching their dependence on Beijing.
• The vulnerabilities of such concentrated supply chains became evident during
geopolitical crises, such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
• Reduced Russian ore supplies, primarily antimony concentrates used in renewable energy
production, exacerbated global reliance on Chinese sources.
• Impact on India’s Renewable Energy Transition —
• India’s renewable energy ambitions amplify the challenges posed by China’s monopoly.
• The nation’s commitment to achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030
depends on access to rare earth elements like neodymium and dysprosium, which are
critical for manufacturing wind turbines and electric vehicle motors.
• However, India’s over-reliance on Chinese imports exposes it to supply disruptions that
could derail these efforts.
• China’s dominance in the rare earth sector, coupled with its strategic use of supply chain
leverage, poses a multifaceted challenge for India and other nations.

The Importance of Kazakhstan -

• A Strategic Alternative to China in Rare Earths —
• Kazakhstan is emerging as a promising alternative to China for rare earth supplies,
offering strategic and economic advantages.
• Rich in rare earth reserves and well-positioned geographically, Kazakhstan is increasingly
seen as a viable partner for nations like India that are seeking to diversify their supply
chains.
• The country’s combination of abundant resources, advanced extraction technologies,
and willingness to collaborate presents a strong counterbalance to China's dominance
in this sector.
• Abundant Rare Earth Reserves —
• Kazakhstan is among the world’s richest sources of REEs, possessing 15 of the 17
known REEs.
RAJ IAS ACADEMY 28th December, 2024 Page 15
• These elements are essential for a wide range of applications, including renewable
energy technologies, telecommunications, and defence systems.
• Kazakhstan’s reserves include dysprosium, neodymium, and terbium, elements crucial
for manufacturing wind turbines, electric vehicle motors, and advanced military
equipment.
• Kazakhstan has demonstrated its commitment to developing these resources by
forming strategic partnerships with key global players.
• Agreements with Japan and Germany, as well as recent deals with the U.S., South
Korea, and the European Union, underline the growing international interest in
Kazakhstan’s rare earth reserves.
• Advanced Extraction Capabilities —
• Kazakhstan is making significant investments in advanced extraction and processing
technologies, which are critical for competing with China’s well-established supply chain.
• The country is one of the few in the world to host full-cycle facilities for beryllium and
scandium, key materials for aerospace and telecommunications industries.
• Additionally, Kazakhstan is a leading producer of tantalum and niobium, essential
components for nuclear reactors and clean energy technologies.
• Strategic Connectivity and Proximity to India —
• Geographical proximity and shared strategic interests further enhance Kazakhstan’s
appeal as a rare earth partner for India.
• Initiatives such as the ‘Connect Central Asia’ policy and the International North-South
Transport Corridor provide robust frameworks for deepening economic and logistical ties
between the two countries.
• These connectivity projects aim to streamline trade routes, reduce transportation costs,
and facilitate the flow of critical materials like rare earth elements.
• India’s increasing engagement with Kazakhstan is exemplified by high-level dialogues
and cooperative agreements.
• For instance, the second India-Central Asia Summit saw discussions on establishing an
‘India-Central Asia Rare Earths Forum.’

India’s Renewable Energy Goals, Challenges, and the Path Forward -

• India’s Renewable Energy Goals and Challenges —
• India’s ambitious pledge at COP29 to achieve 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030
underscores the critical role of REEs in this transition.
• However, India’s current capacity across the rare earth supply chain remains
insufficient.
• While the government aims to increase mining output by 400% over the next decade,
challenges persist, including limited extraction technologies and logistical hurdles in
connecting with resource-rich regions like Kazakhstan.
• The establishment of the ‘India-Central Asia Rare Earths Forum,’ proposed during the
second India-Central Asia Summit, represents a strategic move to address these
challenges.
• This initiative aims to foster bilateral training, joint mining ventures, and the exchange
of geological expertise, thereby paving the way for sustainable and efficient rare earth
extraction.
• Such collaborations could reduce India’s reliance on China and create a regional market
for critical minerals.
• The Path Forward —
• India’s partnership with Kazakhstan offers a pathway to secure its rare earth needs
while reducing dependency on China.
• By leveraging Kazakhstan’s advanced technologies and vast reserves, India can
enhance its energy security and support its renewable energy transition.
• Collaborative frameworks, such as the proposed Rare Earths Forum, will be instrumental
in overcoming technological and logistical barriers.
• Kazakhstan’s role as a strategic partner aligns with India’s broader geopolitical objectives.
• Diversifying rare earth sources through closer ties with Kazakhstan not only enhances
India’s energy security but also mitigates risks associated with China’s monopoly.
RAJ IAS ACADEMY 28th December, 2024 Page 16
• For Kazakhstan, collaboration with India provides an opportunity to expand its market reach
and attract investments in mining and technology sectors.

Conclusion -
• Kazakhstan’s vast rare earth reserves, advanced extraction capabilities, and strategic
proximity to India, position it as a compelling alternative to China.
• By deepening ties with Kazakhstan, India can secure its rare earth supply chain, support
its renewable energy transition, and reduce its reliance on Chinese imports.
• This partnership represents a mutually beneficial opportunity for economic growth,
technological advancement, and geopolitical stability in the evolving global landscape of
critical minerals.

Source - The Hindu

QUESTION - India's ambitious renewable energy targets are contingent upon secure access
to rare earth elements. Critically analyse the challenges posed by China's dominance in the
rare earth market for India's energy transition. Examine the potential of Kazakhstan as a
strategic alternative for India in securing its rare earth needs. Discuss the necessary steps
for India to effectively leverage this partnership.