16 January 2025 : Daily Current Affairs
1. ‘Strange’ particle possesses mass when moving in one direction, not another
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)
| Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology |
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| Understanding Subatomic Particles |
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Types of Fermions
- Fermions are classified into Dirac fermions and Majorana fermions.
- Dirac fermions may or may not have mass and are different from their antiparticles.
- Majorana fermions are their own antiparticles, with neutrinos suspected to belong to this category.
Challenges in Particle Physics
- Physicists face challenges in identifying missing particles, such as those responsible for gravity.
- Some particles, like Higgs bosons and neutrinos, are heavier than expected.
- Dark matter remains a mystery, as its presence has not been directly detected.
- The Standard Model (SM) organizes known particles but has gaps that need filling.
Discovery of Semi-Dirac Fermions
- Semi-Dirac fermions are unique particles with mass in one direction but not in another.
- They were discovered in zirconium silicon sulphide (ZrSiS), a crystalline material.
- These particles behave as fermions under specific electric and magnetic forces.
Role of Condensed Matter Physics
- Condensed matter physics allows the discovery of exotic particles in smaller, controlled experiments.
- Materials like graphene and ZrSiS act as hosts for particles like semi-Dirac fermions.
- This field provides valuable insights without requiring massive particle colliders.
Future Research and Implications
- Researchers aim to explore ZrSiS further to understand its unusual properties.
- Each discovery helps expand the “particle zoo” and reveals new aspects of the universe.
- Understanding these particles brings physicists closer to uncovering the fundamental laws of nature.
| Practice Question: Examine the significance of semi-Dirac fermions in advancing our understanding of subatomic particles and condensed matter physics. (150 Words /10 marks) |
2. Does ‘blood money’ have a legal standing?
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 10)
| Topic: GS1 – Indian Society |
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| What is ‘Blood Money’? |
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Contemporary Use of ‘Blood Money’
- Several Islamic countries follow ‘blood money’ laws, with variations in how compensation is calculated.
- In Saudi Arabia, for example, ‘blood money’ is mandated in traffic accidents, and a prison term is also imposed on the perpetrator.
- ‘Blood money’ laws in Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Pakistan differ by gender, religion, and nationality.
- In Iran, a woman’s compensation is half that of a man’s, though there have been efforts to equalize it.
- Pakistan incorporates ‘blood money’ and retribution in its legal system.
- Yemen also allows the parties to reach a compensation agreement, with judicial oversight.
India’s Stand on ‘Blood Money’
- India does not have a formal legal provision for ‘blood money’.
- However, India has a similar concept known as ‘plea bargaining’, introduced by the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2005.
- Plea bargaining allows the accused to plead guilty in exchange for a reduced sentence or fewer charges.
- Unlike ‘blood money’, plea bargaining has limitations; it only applies to offenses punishable with less than seven years of imprisonment and cannot be used in heinous crimes like murder or rape.
- In plea bargaining, victims may receive compensation, similar to ‘blood money’, under Section 265E of the Criminal Procedure Code.
| Historical Practices Similar to ‘Blood Money’ |
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Indian Cases Involving ‘Blood Money’
- Several Indian nationals have been pardoned through ‘blood money’ in the past.
- In 2019, the death sentence of an Indian in Kuwait was commuted to life imprisonment after his family paid ‘blood money’.
- Other Indian nationals in the UAE were pardoned after paying ‘blood money’ for serious crimes.
- In the current case, efforts are underway to see if a death sentence can be commuted through ‘blood money’.
Conclusion
- ‘Blood money’ serves as a tool for reconciliation in certain legal systems, aiming to compensate victims’ families.
- It remains a contentious issue, with debates on its fairness and implementation across different countries.
| Practice Question: Discuss the concept of ‘blood money’ under Islamic law and compare it with India’s plea bargaining system. (150 Words /10 marks) |
3. US Sanctions on Russia’s Oil Trade Pose Challenges for India Amid Shifting Global Dynamics
(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained – Page No. – 14)
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Analysis of the news:
Implications for India
- Russia, India’s largest crude oil supplier, accounted for nearly 38% of India’s imports in 2024.
- While Indian refiners can fulfill existing contracts until March 12, the sanctions are likely to disrupt the India-Russia oil trade beyond this wind-down period.
- However, India’s overall oil imports will remain stable as alternative supplies from West Asia are readily available.
Rising Freight Costs and Shifting Suppliers
- Sanctions will limit the availability of tankers to transport Russian oil, causing freight costs to rise.
- This, in turn, will erode the discounts on Russian crude, making oil from traditional suppliers like Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE more competitive.
- Indian refiners have already begun increasing imports from these countries to offset potential disruptions.
Russia’s Dilemma and the Price Cap
- The sanctions further pressure Russia’s shadow fleet, which operates outside Western restrictions.
- To maintain exports, Russia may be forced to sell oil below $60 per barrel to comply with Western price caps, allowing access to Western shipping and insurance.
- This would reduce revenues for Russia but ensure continued exports to India and China.
Impact of the Incoming US Administration
- Donald Trump’s upcoming presidency could reshape US policy on Russia and Ukraine.
- While Trump has expressed intentions to broker peace, his administration’s stance on sanctions remains uncertain.
- The new sanctions may serve as leverage for Trump in negotiations with Moscow, potentially influencing the trajectory of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and global oil trade.
Conclusion
- India’s oil trade with Russia faces near-term disruptions due to US sanctions, but ample alternative supplies from West Asia ensure stability in imports.
- The evolving US policy under Donald Trump will play a key role in shaping the global oil trade and geopolitical dynamics around the Russia-Ukraine war.
| How has India Benefitted from Discounted Russian Oil? |
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| Practice Question: Examine the implications of recent US sanctions on Russia’s oil trade for India. (150 Words /10 marks) |
4. With 1.59 lakh startups, India is now world’s 3rd largest startup ecosystem
(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2093125®=3&lang=1 )
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Introduction: Celebrating Nine Years of Startup India
- Launched by the Government of India, Startup India was designed to encourage innovation and the growth of startups across the country.
- As of January 15, 2025, over 1.59 lakh startups have been recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
- India is now the third-largest startup ecosystem globally, with more than 100 unicorns driving global innovation.
- Key hubs for startups include Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi-NCR, with smaller cities also making significant contributions.
Key Milestones of Startup India
- The number of DPIIT-recognized startups grew from 500 in 2016 to 1,59,157 by January 15, 2025.
- As of October 31, 2024, 73,151 recognized startups had at least one woman director, showing the rise of women entrepreneurs.
- Over 16.6 lakh direct jobs have been created by these startups from 2016 to October 31, 2024, contributing significantly to employment generation.
Core Features of Startup India
- Ease of Doing Business: The initiative simplifies compliance, offers self-certification, and provides single-window clearances to make it easier for startups to operate.
- Tax Benefits: Eligible startups are given tax exemptions for three consecutive financial years.
- Funding Support: The ₹10,000 crore Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) helps with early-stage funding.
- Sector-Specific Policies: Special policies for sectors like biotechnology, agriculture, and renewable energy support growth in these areas.
Jobs Created by Startups
- As of October 31, 2024, DPIIT-recognized startups had created over 16.6 lakh direct jobs across various industries.
- The IT Services sector led with 2.04 lakh jobs, followed by Healthcare & Lifesciences with 1.47 lakh jobs, and Professional & Commercial Services with around 94,000 jobs.
Flagship Schemes Under Startup India
- Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)
- Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS)
- Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS)
Other Initiatives Under Startup India
- Capacity Building: Workshops and handholding sessions are conducted across the country, especially in non-metro cities, to strengthen regional ecosystems.
- Outreach and Awareness: Initiatives like startup showcases and social media promotions inspire entrepreneurs and provide funding, incubation, and mentorship opportunities.
- Ecosystem Development Events: Events like Startup Mahakumbh and Startup India Innovation Week foster collaboration and innovation.
- International Exposure: India’s G20 Presidency and Startup20 Engagement Group help connect India’s startups with global economies.
- Ecosystem Collaboration: The Startup India Hub portal provides resources and opportunities for startups to grow.
BHASKAR: Empowering India’s Startup Ecosystem
- The Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR), launched in September 2024, connects startups with investors, mentors, and government bodies.
- BHASKAR aims to foster innovation, streamline processes, and promote India as a global innovation hub.
Startup Mahakumbh: Celebrating Innovation
- The Startup Mahakumbh event brings together startups, unicorns, investors, and industry leaders.
- The 2024 edition had 48,000 attendees and 1,300 exhibitors, showcasing the growing importance of the event.
- The fifth edition will take place in March 2025 in New Delhi.
Conclusion
- As India aims to become a global leader in innovation, the Startup India initiative remains a major driver of economic growth and entrepreneurial success.
| Practice Question: DDiscuss the key achievements and challenges of the Startup India initiative in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in India. How has it contributed to economic growth and employment generation?is (250 Words /15 marks) |
Prelims Facts
1. U.S., Japan moon landers launch on single rocket
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)
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Mission Objectives
- The goal is to achieve soft landings on the moon, building on the success of Intuitive Machines, the first company to land successfully on the moon in 2022.
- The mission is part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program, which aims to reduce costs and promote a lunar economy by partnering with private companies.
Details of the Landers
- Blue Ghost:
- Launched first, will take 45 days to reach the moon.
- It will land near Mons Latreille, a volcanic feature on the moon’s northeast side.
- Carries 10 NASA instruments for scientific research, including studying lunar dust, magnetosphere, and the moon’s interior.
- Resilience:
- Will take 4-5 months to reach the moon’s Mare Frigoris, located on the far north side.
- It carries a micro rover, ‘Tenacious’, designed to scoop moon dust and send back images.
Challenges
- Both landers must navigate difficult terrain with craters and boulders, relying on thrusters for a soft landing due to the lack of an atmosphere.
2. Argentine inflation drops
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 13)
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Status of Argentine Economy:
- In 2024, Argentina’s inflation rate dropped to 117.8%, a sharp decline from previous years, signaling a reduction in price increases.
- The government, under President Javier Milei, claims this drop in inflation reflects the success of its stabilization plan, which began with his tenure.
- Milei’s austerity measures, which included a 52% devaluation of the peso and the firing of over 33,000 public sector employees, played a key role in reducing inflation.
- Despite these efforts, poverty is high, with 57.4% of people living below the poverty line.
- Instead these reforms plunged Argentina into a deep recession, pushing an additional five million people into poverty in 2024.
- Despite facing protests, Milei asserts that the economic pain will result in long-term economic stability and growth.
3. India Bolsters Maritime Strength: INS Nilgiri, INS Surat, and INS Vaghsheer Commissioned into Indian Navy
(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained- Page No. – 14)
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Analysis of the news:
INS Nilgiri: Versatile Stealth Frigate
- INS Nilgiri, the lead ship of the Project 17A frigates, is designed for multi-mission operations in blue-water environments.
- Equipped with supersonic missiles, advanced air defense systems, and rapid-fire weapons, it excels in anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare.
- Built with an “integrated construction” approach, it reduces build time and enhances efficiency.
- The frigate represents a modern upgrade to the Shivalik-class vessels, with six more ships under Project 17A in various construction stages.
INS Surat: AI-Enabled Stealth Destroyer
- The fourth and final destroyer under Project 15B, INS Surat, is India’s first AI-enabled warship.
- Designed for offensive operations, it features advanced sensors, surface-to-air missiles, and anti-ship weaponry.
- With a displacement of 7,400 tonnes and speeds exceeding 30 knots, it integrates seamlessly into network-centric warfare.
- This destroyer underscores India’s focus on combining cutting-edge technology with indigenous design, ensuring high maneuverability and strike capability.
INS Vaghsheer: Silent and Lethal Submarine
- INS Vaghsheer, the final vessel of the Kalvari-class submarines under Project 75, is a diesel-electric “hunter-killer” submarine.
- Renowned for its stealth and versatility, it is equipped with wire-guided torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and advanced sonar systems.
- The modular construction facilitates future upgrades, including Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, enhancing underwater endurance.
- Vaghsheer is pivotal for missions like surveillance, intelligence gathering, and special operations.
Strategic Significance of the Additions
- The simultaneous commissioning of a frigate, destroyer, and submarine showcases India’s naval prowess and its commitment to bolstering maritime security.
- These platforms enhance India’s capability to deter regional threats, secure maritime trade routes, and maintain strategic influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
- Their indigenous origin aligns with India’s Make in India initiative and reinforces global confidence in India’s defense production capabilities.
4. ISRO Successfully Grows Cowpea Seedlings in Space, Marking a Milestone in Space Agriculture
(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained- Page No. – 14)
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Analysis of the news:
Success of the Experiment
- The experiment involved growing cowpea seedlings (Vigna unguiculata) aboard the POEM-4 module in the microgravity environment of space.
- Out of eight cowpea seeds cultivated within a controlled environment featuring active thermal management, three successfully sprouted leaves.
- This accomplishment demonstrates ISRO’s ability to grow plants in space and offers insights into sustainable human presence during long-duration space missions.
Significance for Future Missions
- The success of the CROPS experiment is a step forward in developing technologies for space-based agriculture, which will be essential for sustaining life during future deep-space missions.
- The insights gained from this experiment will contribute to ensuring food security and long-term habitability in extraterrestrial environments.
Broader Implications
- This experiment highlights ISRO’s advancements in integrating biological research with space exploration, paving the way for innovative approaches to support human life in space.
- The mission also serves as a foundation for further studies in astrobiology and the development of self-sustaining ecosystems beyond Earth.
For more such UPSC-related Current Affairs, Check Out- 15 January 2025: Daily Current Affairs
