15 April 2024 : PIB Summary for UPSC

Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology – Achievements of Indian S&T, GS3 – Internal Security

The indigenous development of MPATGM by DRDO showcases technological advancements and enhances India’s defense capabilities, relevant for UPSC.

 What is it?

● The Man-Portable Anti-tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) system is a sophisticated weapon developed for infantry use.

●  It is designed to destroy enemy tanks and armoured vehicles from a relatively short range.

●  MPATGMs are lightweight and portable, allowing infantry units to carry and operate them effectively.

● They are equipped with advanced guidance systems and powerful warheads to ensure accuracy and effectiveness against armoured targets.

● The system enhances the infantry’s anti-tank capabilities, providing them with a potent weapon against armoured threats on the battlefield.

Advantages:

●   Precision Targeting: MPATGMs offer precise targeting capabilities, enabling infantry units to accurately engage enemy tanks and armoured vehicles.

● Portability: Being man-portable, these missiles can be easily carried and deployed by infantry soldiers, providing flexibility in various combat scenarios.

●  Versatility: MPATGM systems can engage both stationary and moving targets, making them suitable for a wide range of combat situations.

●  Enhanced Lethality: With advanced warheads and guidance systems, MPATGMs deliver high lethality against armoured threats, increasing the effectiveness of infantry units.

●  Increased Standoff Range: These missiles allow infantry soldiers to engage enemy tanks from a safe distance, reducing the risk to themselves and enhancing battlefield survivability.

●  Tactical Advantage: MPATGMs provide infantry units with a significant tactical advantage by allowing them to neutralise enemy armour swiftly and effectively.

● Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to traditional anti-tank weapons, MPATGM systems offer a cost-effective solution for infantry units to counter armoured threats.

●  Integration with Infantry Tactics: The portability and versatility of MPATGMs enable seamless integration with infantry tactics, enhancing overall combat effectiveness.

●Deterrence: The presence of MPATGMs acts as a deterrent against enemy armour, discouraging potential threats and contributing to overall battlefield dominance.

● Operational Readiness: With their lightweight design and ease of operation, MPATGM systems ensure high operational readiness, allowing infantry units to respond rapidly to emerging threats.

PYQ: Consider the following statements
1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their fights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of fight.
2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile.
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: D

(UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2023)

Topic: GS1 – Modern Indian History –  Personalities

The news underscores Babasaheb’s role in Indian Constitution drafting, social reform; relevant for UPSC.

Social Reformer:

●   Championed the cause of social equality and fought against caste discrimination.

●   Advocated for the rights of Dalits and marginalised communities.

●   Led campaigns for the abolition of untouchability and caste-based discrimination.

●   Emphasised education as a tool for social empowerment and upliftment.

●   Founded the Independent Labour Party to address the concerns of workers and peasants.

(Source – The Economic Times, 15 April 2021)

Jurist:

●   Drafted the Constitution of India, playing a pivotal role in shaping its legal framework.

●   Advocated for fundamental rights, equality before law, and social justice.

● Established the concept of affirmative action to ensure representation for marginalised groups.

●   He was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly.

●   Contributed significantly to the inclusion of provisions related to civil liberties, federalism, and parliamentary democracy.

Economist:

●  Ambedkar had a doctorate degree in economics each from America’s Columbia University and the London School of Economics.

●   Stressed the importance of economic equality and equitable distribution of resources.

●   Advocated for land reforms to address agrarian inequalities and poverty.

● Proposed policies for industrialization and economic development, emphasising state intervention.

● Highlighted the need for social security measures and welfare programs for vulnerable sections.

●   Emphasised the role of education and entrepreneurship in economic empowerment.

(Source – The Economic Times, 14 April 2023)

Politician:

●   Founded the Independent Labour Party and the Scheduled Castes Federation.

●   Served as the first Law Minister of independent India in Jawaharlal Nehru’s cabinet.

●   Played a key role in the formation and functioning of the Republican Party of India.

●   Advocated for minority rights and representation in the political sphere.

●  Instrumental in the enactment of laws such as the Hindu Code Bill, aimed at social reform and gender equality.

(Source – The Indian Express, 14 October 2019)

PYQ: Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, despite having divergent approaches and strategies, had a common goal of amelioration of the downtrodden. Elucidate. (200 words/12.5m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-1 2015)

Which of the following parties were established by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar?

1. The Peasants and Workers Party of India

2. All India Scheduled Castes Federation

3. The Independent Labour Party

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (b)

(UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2012)