UPPSC Monthly Current Affairs: September 2024 | Monthly Current Affairs UPPSC - UPPSC (UP) PDF Download

Alert for Heavy Rain in Uttar Pradesh

Reason for the Alert

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather warning for Uttar Pradesh due to a low-pressure area over the northwest Bay of Bengal. This low-pressure area has intensified into a cyclonic circulation, leading to the heavy rain alert for various districts in the state.

Details of the Alert

Districts Under Heavy Rain Alert

• A total of 24 districts are under a yellow alert for heavy rainfall.
• These districts include: Banda, Chitrakoot, Kaushambi, Prayagraj, Deoria, Gorakhpur, Bahraich, Lakhimpur Kheri, Sitapur, Ayodhya, Ambedkar Nagar, Jalaun, Hamirpur, Mahoba, Jhansi, and Lalitpur.

Districts Under Very Heavy Rain Alert

• Eight districts are under an orange alert for very heavy rainfall.
• These districts are: Sant Kabir Nagar, Basti, Kushinagar, Maharajganj, Siddharthnagar, Gonda, Balrampur, and Shravasti.

Colour-Coded Weather Warning System

The IMD uses a colour-coded system to warn people about severe or hazardous weather conditions.

• Green (All is well) : No advisory is issued.
• Yellow (Be Aware) : Indicates severely bad weather lasting several days, with the potential for disruption in daily activities.
• Orange/Amber (Be prepared) : Warns of extremely bad weather that could disrupt travel, including road and rail closures and power supply interruptions.
• Red (Take Action) : Signals extremely bad weather that will disrupt travel and power, posing significant risk to life.

Crack Down on Food Adulteration

Recently, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh announced new measures to tackle food adulteration in the state.

• Display of Proprietors’ Names: All restaurants and eateries are required to prominently display the names and addresses of their operators, proprietors, managers, and other key staff. This measure aims to ensure transparency and accountability in food establishments.
• Amendment to Food Safety Act: The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 will be amended to enforce compliance with the new display rules. A state-wide verification campaign will be conducted involving the Food Safety and Drug Administration, Police, and Local Administration.
• Mandatory CCTV Installation: All eateries, hotels, and dhabas must install CCTV cameras covering both dining areas and other sections of the establishment. Operators are responsible for securely storing CCTV footage and providing it to law enforcement upon request.
• Public Health and Hygiene: The directives are a response to food adulteration cases where human waste and other contaminants were found in food. Strict hygiene practices will be enforced, including mandatory use of masks and gloves for all food preparation and serving staff.
• FSSAI: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), established under the Food Safety and Standards Act in 2006, regulates food safety in India. The Act consolidates multiple food laws, empowers state governments to regulate food safety, and establishes FSSAI to set food standards and promote safe food practices.
• The recent directives in Uttar Pradesh reflect the Act's aim to ensure safe and wholesome food for consumers and maintain strict vigilance on food safety.

Semiconductor Facility in Uttar Pradesh

Recently, it was announced that Uttar Pradesh is set to have its first semiconductor manufacturing unit, marking a significant development in India’s tech sector and positioning the state as a critical player in the country’s digital transformation efforts.

India-US Semiconductor Partnership:

• The announcement follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India and the US to collaborate on chip manufacturing.
• The partnership in semiconductor development will have a far-reaching impact on India’s technological advancements.

Importance for Digital Transformation:

• Semiconductors are critical for India’s digital transformation goals and will become increasingly visible in daily life.
• This development is part of a broader initiative to leverage technology for India’s progress, extending its benefits to rural and interior areas.

Cybersecurity Focus:

• The semiconductor industry is also seen as crucial for strengthening cybersecurity, given the shift in warfare from physical attacks to the cyber realm.

Economic Impact:

• The establishment of this facility will contribute to macroeconomic growth, with India’s economy being described as resilient and on a strong growth trajectory.
• The Indo-US bilateral ties are now mutually beneficial, contributing to India’s ongoing economic development.
• Pure Elements: Silicon and Germanium
• Compounds: Gallium Arsenide and Cadmium selenide
• Essential to almost all sectors of the economy: aerospace, automobiles, communications, clean energy, information technology and medical devices etc.

UP and MP Join Forces for 8 GW Solar Power Initiative

The governments of Madhya Pradesh (MP) and Uttar Pradesh (UP) have recently embarked on a groundbreaking partnership to develop 8 gigawatts (GW) of solar power capacity. This collaboration marks a significant milestone as it is the first of its kind between two Indian states.

Collaboration Details

• The power generated from this initiative will be shared between MP and UP, with the distribution alternating every six months. This arrangement aligns with the peak demand seasons of both states.
• Madhya Pradesh will receive the solar power from October to March, coinciding with its peak demand period, which aligns with the rabi crop season.
• Uttar Pradesh will receive power from April to September, matching its peak demand period during the kharif crop season.

Project Phases

• First Phase: The initial phase of the project will involve the development of a 2 GW solar power project, with Morena in Madhya Pradesh being considered as a potential site for this initiative.

Renewable Energy Goals

• Madhya Pradesh has set an ambitious goal to achieve 20 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, a significant increase from its current capacity of 9 GW.
• Uttar Pradesh aims to reach 22 GW of solar capacity by 2026-27, up from its existing capacity of 6.8 GW.

This collaboration between MP and UP not only reflects a significant step towards increasing renewable energy capacity but also showcases the potential for inter-state cooperation in addressing energy needs and promoting sustainable practices.

97% of Atrocities against Scheduled Castes Reported from 13 States

A recent government report has highlighted that a staggering 97.7% of atrocities against Scheduled Castes (SCs) in 2022 were concentrated in just 13 states. The states with the highest number of reported cases include Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.

Atrocities Against Scheduled Castes

• In 2022, a total of 52,866 cases of atrocities against SCs were reported, with 51,656 cases (97.7%) coming from 13 states.
• Uttar Pradesh topped the list with 12,287 cases, accounting for 23.78% of the total.

Atrocities Against Scheduled Tribes

• For Scheduled Tribes (STs), 98.91% of atrocities were reported from 13 states, totaling 9,735 cases.
• Madhya Pradesh reported the highest number of cases with 2,979 (30.61%), followed by Rajasthan with 2,498 cases (25.66%) and Odisha with 773 cases (7.94%).

Conviction Rate under the SC/ST Act

• The conviction rate for cases under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 has seen a decline, dropping to 32.4% in 2022 from 39.2% in 2020.

SC/ST Protection Measures

• In response to the rising atrocities, various states have established SC/ST protection cells and special police stations to handle offences against SC/ST communities.
• States like Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan have set up SC/ST protection cells, while special police stations are operational in Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Kerala, and Madhya Pradesh.

Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989

• The SC/ST Act, 1989 is a parliamentary Act aimed at prohibiting discrimination and preventing atrocities against members of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
• Despite various measures, members of these communities continue to face atrocities from upper-caste individuals, necessitating the Act's enforcement.
• The Act aligns with constitutional safeguards under Articles 15 (Prohibition of Discrimination), 17 (Abolition of Untouchability), and 21 (Protection of Life and Personal Liberty) to protect vulnerable communities and provide relief and rehabilitation to victims of caste-based atrocities.

Flooding in Saryu River

Overview of the Incident: Recent flooding in the Saryu River caused significant disruptions in the Ballia district of Uttar Pradesh, impacting transportation and local communities.

• About the Saryu River:Geographic Location: The Saryu River flows through the Indian states of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. Historical Significance: The river is of ancient importance, as it is mentioned in the  Vedas  and the  Ramayana  , two of the oldest religious texts in India. Formation and Tributary Status: The Saryu River is formed at the confluence of the Ghagra and Karnali rivers and is a tributary of the Ganges River.
• Ballia District:Geographic Location: Ballia is situated in the extreme northeastern part of Uttar Pradesh. It is bordered by the districts of Mau, Deoria, and Ghazipur, and it shares a border with the state of Bihar. Confluence of Rivers: The district lies at the confluence of the Ganges and Ghagra rivers, which are significant rivers in the region. Distance from Major City: Ballia is located approximately 135 kilometers from Varanasi, another major city in Uttar Pradesh. The Ganges River separates Ballia from Bihar, while the Ghagra River separates it from Deoria.
• Etymology of Ballia:Sage Valmiki Theory: One belief about the origin of Ballia's name is that it is named after the sage Valmiki, who is thought to have resided in the area. However, there is no longer a shrine dedicated to him in the district. Sandy Soil Theory: Another belief links the name Ballia to the local soil type called "Ballua," which means sandy soil. It is believed that the city's original name was "Balian," which later changed to Ballia.
• Historical Background of Madrasas:Definition: The term "madrasa" is derived from Arabic and refers to an educational institution. Early Role in Islam: Madrasas initially served as educational institutions associated with mosques in the early days of Islam. However, by the 10th century, they evolved into separate entities providing both religious and secular education in the Islamic world. Geographic Origin: The earliest madrasas were established in Khorasan and Transoxania, which correspond to modern-day eastern and northern Iran, central Asia, and Afghanistan. These larger institutions often provided accommodation for students, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Current Status of Madrasas in India:Statistics (as of 2018-19): India had a total of 24,010 madrasas, out of which 19,132 were recognized by the government, and 4,878 were unrecognized. Major Seminaries: Unrecognized madrasas typically follow curricula set by prominent seminaries such as Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama and Darul Uloom Deoband. Distribution: Uttar Pradesh accounts for 60% of the country’s madrasas, with 11,621 recognized and 2,907 unrecognized institutions.
• Categories of Madrasas in India:Madrasa Darse Nizami: These madrasas operate as public charities and are not obligated to follow state school education curricula. Madrasa Darse Aliya: These madrasas are affiliated with state madrasa education boards, such as the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madrasa Education, and follow specific educational guidelines set by the state.

NCPCR and Madrasa Education

Concerns Raised by NCPCR: The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has expressed concerns regarding madrasa education in India. They highlight that madrasa education is not comprehensive and does not adhere to the provisions of the Right to Education Act (RTE), 2009. 

• Textbook Issues: NCPCR points out that the textbooks used in madrasas promote the "supremacy of Islam," which contradicts the principles of secular education and the requirements set by the RTE.
• Allahabad High Court Ruling: The Allahabad High Court has declared the principle of secularism in the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004, as unconstitutional. The court found that the Act violated Article 14 and fundamental rights under the Constitution, which are essential for maintaining equality and justice.
• The content discusses various aspects of madrasas, their governance, funding, and schemes aimed at improving education in these institutions, as well as the role of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) in safeguarding child rights in India. Additionally, it touches upon the economic trajectory of Uttar Pradesh (UP) and its contribution to India’s GDP, highlighting historical data and recent trends in GSDP growth, sectoral contributions, and per capita income.

Madrasas in India

• Governance: Madrasas are governed by state governments, which appoint teachers and officials.
• Examination Statistics: In 2023, approximately 1.69 lakh students took the UP madrasa board exams, which are equivalent to Class 10 and Class 12 examinations.
• Funding Sources: The majority of funding for madrasas comes from the respective state governments.
• Central Government Scheme: The Scheme for Providing Education to Madrasas/Minorities (SPEMM) offers financial assistance to madrasas and minority institutions.
• Sub-schemes under SPEMM:
  1. Scheme for Providing Quality Education in Madrasas (SPQEM).
  2. Infrastructure Development of Minority Institutes (IDMI).
• Administrative Control: SPEMM was transferred from the Ministry of Minority Affairs to the Ministry of Education in April 2021.

 National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) 

• Establishment and Mandate: NCPCR is a statutory body established in March 2007 under the Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005. It operates under the Ministry of Women & Child Development. The Commission’s primary role is to ensure that all laws, policies, and programs align with child rights as per the Constitution of India and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
• Inquiries and Monitoring: NCPCR investigates complaints related to a child’s right to free and compulsory education under the Right to Education Act, 2009, and monitors the implementation of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.

Economic Overview of Uttar Pradesh

In the 1960s, five states (Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Bihar) contributed about 54% to India’s GDP, with Uttar Pradesh being the largest at 14.4%.

• Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP): In 2022-23, UP’s GSDP grew by 8.3% (constant prices), a decrease from 10.2% in 2021-22. National GDP growth for 2022-23 is estimated at 7.2%.
• Sectoral Contributions: In 2022-23, contributions were: Agriculture (24%), Manufacturing (30%), Services (46%). Growth rates were 10% for Agriculture, 22% for Manufacturing, and 12% for Services.
• Per Capita GSDP: Estimated at Rs 96,193 in 2022-23 (current prices), with an annual growth of 8% since 2017-18.
• Share in National GDP: UP’s share in national GDP declined from 8.4% in 2016-17 to 7.9% in 2021-22. To be a trillion-dollar economy, UP’s share should increase to 20%.
• Widening Income Gap: The per capita income gap between India and UP has widened; UP’s per capita income was 50% of India’s in 2011-12 and 45.87% by 2021-22, indicating slower growth.

Ganga River Exceeds Warning Level in Varanasi

The Ganga River in Varanasi has gone beyond the warning level, leading to significant flooding that has impacted over 4,000 residents in the area. The water level reached 70.76 meters, exceeding the warning threshold of 70.26 meters and rising at a rate of 5 cm per hour.

• Impact on Residents:Affected Population: A total of 4,461 people have been affected by the floods, with several low-lying areas in the district submerged, forcing residents to use boats for transportation. Relocation: Families from Mokalpur, affected by erosion, have been relocated to relief camps. Currently, 1,601 people from 299 families are residing in these camps.
• Relief Measures:Flood Relief Camps: The district administration has established 46 flood relief camps, with 14 currently operational. These camps provide essential supplies such as food, fruits, milk, and drinking water. Medical camps have also been set up to offer healthcare services. Rescue Operations: A total of 22 boats have been deployed for rescue operations. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): Teams from the NDRF are actively involved in relief efforts using motorboats.

Ganga River System

• Origin: The Ganga River begins as the Bhagirathi River from the Gangotri Glacier in Uttarakhand, at an elevation of 3,892 meters.
• Headwaters: The river's headwaters consist of several small streams, with the most important being the Alaknanda, Dhauliganga, and Pindar. At Devprayag, where the Alaknanda joins the Bhagirathi, the river is named Ganga.
• Course: The Ganga flows 2,525 kilometers before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
• Confluences: The Ganga is formed from six headstreams and five confluences: Devprayag: Confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers. Rudraprayag: Confluence of the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers. Nandaprayag: Confluence of the Nandakini and Alaknanda rivers. Karnaprayag: Confluence of the Pindar and Alaknanda rivers.
• The Ganga, one of the most prominent rivers in India, originates from the Gangotri Glacier in Uttarakhand, where the Bhagirathi River is considered its source stream.
• The river holds immense religious significance, is the longest river in India, and is the second longest in the world.

Origin and Major Tributaries

The Bhagirathi River, seen as the main source, begins at the Gangotri Glacier's base, at a place called Gaumukh. This river eventually flows into the Bay of Bengal.

The Ganga River is joined by several major tributaries along its journey.

• Left Bank Tributaries : These include the Ramganga, Gomti, Ghaghara, Gandak, Burhi Gandak, Koshi, and Mahananda rivers.
• Right Bank Tributaries : These consist of the Yamuna, Tons, Karamnasa, Sone, Punpun, Falgu, Kiul, Chandan, Ajoy, Damodar, and Rupnarayan rivers.
• Districts in Uttar Pradesh : The Ganges River flows through 28 districts in Uttar Pradesh, entering the state from Bijnor. It covers approximately 1140 kilometers within Uttar Pradesh before merging with the Yamuna River at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj.
• Confluence Points : The river's journey includes significant confluence points, such as the merging of the Dhauliganga and Alaknanda rivers at Vishnuprayag, which marks the beginning of the Ganges River system.
• Flow and Significance : The Ganges River is not only a major waterway but also holds cultural and religious importance, with its waters considered sacred by millions. Its tributaries play a crucial role in supporting agriculture and livelihoods in the regions through which they flow.

Bulldozer Justice

The Supreme Court of India has recently criticized the practice known as “bulldozer justice,” where properties are demolished based on criminal allegations against individuals or their family members. The court emphasized that this practice violates the rule of law and due legal process.

• “Bulldozer justice” involves the demolition of properties belonging to individuals suspected of criminal activities or involvement in riots, often without following proper legal procedures. This practice has been observed in various Indian states, including Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Assam, and Maharashtra. Demolitions are typically justified under municipal laws for reasons such as encroachment or unauthorized construction.
• However, this practice bypasses due process requirements outlined in Supreme Court judgments, such as Sudama Singh & Ors. vs Government of Delhi and Ajay Maken & Ors vs Union of India. The court has condemned the practice, highlighting that demolishing properties based on accusations without following legal procedures violates the rule of law.
• The Supreme Court has called for suggestions from concerned parties to establish appropriate pan-India guidelines on extra-legal demolitions. An analysis has suggested that procedural guidelines should be integrated into relevant legislation and rules, ensuring a phased approach with multiple checkpoints at each stage to guarantee that all necessary steps are followed before taking any adverse or irreversible actions.

Pre-Demolition Phase:

• Burden of Proof: Authorities should bear the burden of proof to justify demolition and displacement, safeguarding human rights.
• Notice and Publicity: Provide a reasoned notice detailing land records and resettlement plans, allowing sufficient time for affected individuals to respond.
• Independent Review: An independent committee with judicial and civil society representatives should review proposed demolitions, especially in residential areas.

Atal Residential Schools Expansion in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister has announced a significant expansion of Atal Residential Schools to improve educational opportunities for underprivileged students. Currently, there are 18 such schools in the state.

• Phased Expansion: The expansion will occur in phases:
• Next Academic Session: Schools will be established in 57 districts.
• Third Phase: Expansion to 350 tehsils.
• Fourth Phase: Schools will be set up in 825 development blocks.
• Fifth Phase: Further expansion at the block level.
• School Features: Named after former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee, these schools aim to set a benchmark for inclusive education and combat illiteracy and deprivation. The new schools will cater to students from classes 1 to 12 and will include Bal Vatikas.
• Bal Vatikas: An early childhood education program that focuses on cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of children aged 3–6 years through play-based learning in an inclusive environment.
• Nyay Panchayat: A judicial system in the panchayati raj system of India that resolves disputes at the village level, considered the most basic level of the Indian judicial system. Functions include resolving minor civil and criminal disputes, providing low-cost and quick justice, and decentralizing the democratic system.

Life Imprisonment for 12 in NIA Court over Illegal Religious Conversions

In a recent ruling by a special court in Lucknow, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) sentenced an Islamic scholar and 11 others to life imprisonment for their involvement in illegal religious conversions.

Charges and Convictions

• The convicts faced charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021.
• Specific charges included:
• Section 121A: Conspiring to commit certain offences against the state.
• Section 123: Concealing information to facilitate a design to wage war against the country.
• Section 153A: Promoting enmity between different groups on religious grounds.

Arrest and Allegations

• The Islamic scholar was arrested in 2021 by the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (UP ATS) in Meerut.
• He was accused of leading a nationwide syndicate involved in illegal religious conversions, promoting enmity, and undermining India’s sovereignty and integrity.
• Additionally, it was alleged that he received funds from international organizations to facilitate these conversions.

National Investigation Agency (NIA)

• The NIA is India’s central counter-terrorism law enforcement agency, tasked with investigating offences that threaten the country’s sovereignty, security, and integrity.
• Its mandate includes cases related to:
• Friendly relations with foreign states.
• Security of atomic and nuclear facilities.
• Smuggling of arms, drugs, fake currency, and infiltration across borders.
• Implementation of international treaties and agreements through statutory laws.

NIA Act, 2008

• The NIA was constituted under this Act, which empowers it to investigate terror-related crimes across states without needing special permission, based on a written proclamation from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• The agency’s headquarters is in New Delhi.

Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021

• This law includes strict provisions against fraudulent or forced conversions.
• It prescribes severe penalties, including 20 years’ imprisonment or life sentences for conversions induced by threats, promises of marriage, or conspiracies.
• The law categorizes such offences as serious crimes.

First Information Report (FIR)

• The law allows any individual to register an FIR in cases of illegal religious conversions, not just parents, victims, or siblings.
• These cases are non-bailable and must be heard by sessions courts.
• Additionally, the law requires individuals wishing to convert for marriage to notify the district magistrate two months in advance.

Uttar Pradesh Government's Initiative for Secure Data Storage

Overview

• The Uttar Pradesh government is aiming to attract a Rs. 30,000 crore investment for the establishment of 8 data centers to enhance secure data storage in the state.
• These data centers will have a total capacity of 900 MW and will be situated near Noida.

Investment and Development

• Companies such as the Hiranandani Group, Adani Group, NTT Japan, and Web Werks have already launched or announced projects worth Rs. 20,000 crore, contributing an additional 600 MW capacity.
• The state government has facilitated data centers to draw power from two grids, ensuring an uninterrupted power supply.
• Uttar Pradesh’s amended Data Centre Policy now extends this double-grid power supply to 8 data center parks, further encouraging investment.

Importance of Data Centers

• Data centers play a crucial role in centralizing the storage, processing, and sharing of information.
• In 2023, India’s colocation data center capacity was 977 MW across the top 7 cities, with an estimated need for an additional 1.7-3.6 GW by 2028 due to rapid digital adoption.
• Storing data offshore poses security risks, as it exposes sensitive information, such as banking, social media, and health data, to potential cyberattacks.
• Establishing domestic data centers will enhance the security of India’s growing digital data.

National Data Centre Capacity

• India’s under-construction colocation capacity for 2024-2028 is 1.03 GW, offering businesses secure server infrastructure and high-speed network connectivity.

Uttar Pradesh Data Centre Policy 2021

• Capital Subsidy: 7% up to Rs.10 crore for units over 10 years (excluding land & building).
• Interest Subsidy: 60% of annual interest, up to Rs.50 crore for 7 years for data center parks.
• Land Subsidy: 25-50% on sector rates, capped at Rs.75 crore.
• Stamp Duty Exemption: 100% on first transaction; 50% on second.
• Electricity Benefits: 100% duty exemption for 10 years; dual-grid power for the first 3 parks.

Gorakhpur Sainik School Inauguration

• The Vice President recently inaugurated the Gorakhpur Sainik School, praising its facilities and emphasizing its significance for education in eastern Uttar Pradesh.
• Gorakhpur Sainik School Details:
  • 1st Sainik School in Eastern Uttar Pradesh: This is the first Sainik School in the eastern part of Uttar Pradesh.
  • 2nd Sainik School by Uttar Pradesh Sainik School Society: This is the second Sainik School managed by the Uttar Pradesh Sainik School Society.
  • 5th Sainik School in Uttar Pradesh: This school is the fifth Sainik School in the state. Other Sainik Schools are located in Jhansi, Amethi, Mainpuri (run by the Defence Ministry), and Lucknow (run by the Uttar Pradesh government).
• During the visit, the Vice President also toured the Gorakhdham temple in Gorakhpur.

Gorakhdham Temple Overview:

• Dedication: The Gorakhdham Temple is dedicated to Guru Gorakshanath, a revered saint of the Nath sect.
• Significance: The temple is a major pilgrimage site and spiritual center, attracting many devotees.
• Architectural Style: The temple features traditional Hindu architectural elements, including a prominent central dome and intricately detailed interiors.

Sainik Schools: An Overview

• Affiliation: Sainik Schools are affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), New Delhi.
• Funding: These schools receive financial support from both the Central and State governments.
• Establishment: Sainik Schools were launched in 1961 with the aim of preparing students academically, physically, and mentally for entry into the National Defence Academy.
• Governance: The schools are managed by the Sainik Schools Society under the Ministry of Defence. The society was established under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860.

UP Government Takes Steps to Boost Football Development

Infrastructure Development

• The Uttar Pradesh (UP) government has announced plans to significantly enhance football infrastructure across the state.
• This includes the construction of 18 new football stadiums in various state commissariats.
• Additionally, football grounds will be developed in all 827 blocks of the state to promote more tournaments and grassroots participation.

Recent Renovations

• The KD Singh Babu Stadium in Lucknow was recently renovated in just 19 days to host the Kolkata Derby, a famous football match between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan. This quick turnaround highlights the government's commitment to improving sports facilities.

Khelo India Initiative

• The UP government's efforts align with the Khelo India initiative, which is aimed at promoting sports development across the country.
• Khelo India, envisioned by the Prime Minister in 2017-18, aims to provide a platform for grassroots athletes and build sports infrastructure, ultimately transforming India into a sporting nation.

Operation Bhediya: Addressing Wolf Attacks in Mehsi Tehsil

• In response to a series of alarming attacks by a pack of wolves in Mehsi tehsil, the forest department has launched “Operation Bhediya (Wolf).” Over the past 45 days, these attacks have resulted in the tragic deaths of six children and a woman, with around 30 others injured.
• The operation aims to capture and neutralize the wolves responsible for these incidents.

Utilization of Technology

• To locate and track the wolves, the operation will employ advanced technologies such as cameras and thermal drones.
• These tools will aid in monitoring the wolves' movements and ensuring a safe and effective capture process.

Tranquilization and Capture

• Approval has been granted for the tranquilization of the wolves as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of both the animals and the local community.
• The tranquilization process will be conducted by trained professionals to minimize any risks involved.

Legal Framework

• Under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, the wolf is classified as a Schedule I wild animal, which typically offers it a high level of protection.
• However, the Chief Wildlife Warden has the authority to issue a written order allowing the hunting of a Schedule I animal if it poses a danger to humans, provided the reasons are clearly explained.

Wolf Conservation Status

• The wolf is listed as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), indicating that it is not currently at risk of extinction.
• This classification is important to consider during the operation to ensure that conservation guidelines are followed.

Schedules in the Wildlife Protection Act

• Schedule I: This schedule protects endangered species with strict penalties for violations. Hunting is prohibited except in extreme cases, such as with species like the Black Buck and the Indian Star Tortoise.
• Schedule II: Species listed in this schedule receive high protection, and their trade is prohibited. Examples include the Assamese Macaque and the Indian Cobra.
• Schedules III & IV: These schedules protect non-endangered species with lesser penalties for violations. For instance, the Chital and the Indian Elephant are protected under these schedules.
• Schedule V: This schedule lists vermin species that can be hunted, such as Common Crows and Rats.
• Schedule VI: Regulates the cultivation and trade of specified plants, requiring prior permission. Examples include the Blue Vanda and Kuth.

Model Solar Village

Every village in Ayodhya with a population of 5,000 will be developed as a model solar village, with a goal of installing 50,000 solar homes.

Key Points:

PM Solar Home scheme

• Aims to turn Ayodhya into a solar city by equipping 50,000 homes with solar panels.
• Selects one village of 5,000 residents from a list of 42 to promote widespread installation of solar panels.
• Each family for 1 kilowatt solar panel will incur a cost of Rs.65,000, with Rs.30,000 subsidized by the central government and Rs.15,000 by the state government.

KUSUM scheme

• Farmers installing solar pumps will receive extra grants under the KUSUM scheme.
• The central government has allocated Rs.1 crore for each Model Solar Village, which will be transferred to the gram panchayat to fund its development.

PM-KUSUM Scheme

The PM-KUSUM is a flagship scheme initiated by the Indian government in 2019 with the primary objective of transforming the agricultural sector by promoting the adoption of solar energy solutions. It operates on a demand-driven approach, allocating capacities based on the demands received from various states and union territories (UTs). The scheme envisions achieving a significant solar power capacity addition of 30.8 GW by March 31, 2026.

Objectives of PM-KUSUM:

• Reduce the Farm Sector’s Reliance on Diesel: The scheme aims to reduce the dependence on diesel for irrigation by encouraging the use of solar-powered pumps and other renewable energy sources. It also seeks to increase farmers’ income by reducing irrigation costs through the use of solar pumps and enabling them to sell surplus solar power to the grid.
• Water and Energy Security for Farmers: By providing access to solar pumps and promoting solar-based community irrigation projects, the scheme aims to enhance water and energy security for farmers.
• Curbing Environmental Pollution: Through the adoption of clean and renewable solar energy, the scheme aims to mitigate environmental pollution caused by conventional energy sources.

Components:

• Component-A: Setting up of 10,000 MW of Decentralized Ground/Stilt Mounted Solar Power Plants on barren/fallow/pasture/marshy/cultivable land of farmers.
• Component-B: Installation of 20 Lakh Standalone Solar Pumps in off-grid areas.
• Component-C: Solarisation of 15 Lakh Grid Connected Agriculture Pumps through Individual Pump Solarisation and Feeder Level Solarisation.