RPSC Monthly Current Affairs: March 2024 | Monthly Current Affairs RPSC - RPSC RAS (Rajasthan) PDF Download

Supreme Court Affirms Rajasthan's Two-Child Policy for Government Jobs

Why is this Important?

The Supreme Court has supported Rajasthan's rule requiring candidates to have no more than two children to be eligible for government jobs, stating that it is not discriminatory and aligns with the Constitution.

Key Details

• Rajasthan's Rule: The Rajasthan Various Service (Amendment) Rules, 2001, prohibit candidates with more than two children from applying for government positions.
• Court Ruling: The Supreme Court dismissed an appeal by ex-serviceman Ramji Lal Jat, who challenged the two-child requirement while applying for a constable job in the Rajasthan Police.
• Non-Discriminatory: The court found that Rule 24(4) of the Rajasthan Police Subordinate Service Rules, 1989, which disqualifies candidates with more than two children born after June 1, 2002, is non-discriminatory and constitutional.
• Objective of the Rule: The court emphasized that the rule aims to promote family planning and is therefore within constitutional bounds.

Rajasthan to Receive Yamuna Water Share

Recently, the Chief Minister of Rajasthan announced that the state will receive its allocated share of Yamuna water as per the 1994 agreement with Haryana.

Agreement Between Haryana and Rajasthan

• Haryana and Rajasthan have recently signed an agreement to collaboratively prepare a detailed project report for transferring Rajasthan's share of Yamuna water from Hathnikund in Haryana.
• The agreement includes the use of underground pipelines and the subsequent utilization of water in areas like Jhunjhunu and Churu.
• This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was established following a meeting between the Chief Ministers of Haryana and Rajasthan on February 17, 2024.

Background of Water Sharing Dispute

• The water-sharing issue has been contentious for over two decades since the 1994 MOU, which allocated water shares among co-basin states.
• The dispute traces back to a controversial 1981 water-sharing agreement made when Haryana was separated from Punjab in 1966.

Punjab's Stance

• Punjab opposes sharing additional water with neighboring states, citing a lack of surplus water and a decline in its water allocation over the years.
• The state warns that many areas may face water scarcity after 2029 and highlights the over-exploitation of groundwater for irrigation.
• Punjab currently uses its groundwater to produce wheat and paddy worth Rs 70,000 crore annually for the central granaries.
• Water in about 79% of Punjab's area is over-exploited, making it impossible for the state to share water with others.

Haryana's Position

• Haryana advocates for the completion of the SYL canal, citing an impending water crisis and accusing Punjab of using Haryana's water share.
• Haryana faces challenges in providing irrigation and drinking water, especially in southern regions where groundwater levels have dropped significantly, up to 1,700 feet.
• The state argues that it contributes to the central food pool and is being denied its rightful water share as determined by a tribunal.

Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) Canal

• The SYL Canal is a significant point of contention between Punjab and Haryana.
• Haryana insists that the canal is crucial for its water supply, while Punjab argues against sharing its already limited water resources.

Yamuna River Overview

• The Yamuna River is a major tributary of the Ganges in Northern India and is a key part of the Yamuna-Ganga Plain, one of the largest alluvial plains in the world.
• It originates from the Yamunotri Glacier at an elevation of 6,387 meters in the lower Himalayan ranges and flows through Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, and finally meets the Ganges in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
• Important dams on the river include the Lakhwar-Vyasi Dam in Uttarakhand and the Tajewala Barrage Dam in Haryana.
• Major tributaries of the Yamuna include the Chambal, Sindh, Betwa, and Ken rivers.

Government Initiatives for Yamuna River

• Yamuna Action Plan
• Delhi Government’s Six-Point Action Plan to Clean Yamuna by February 2025.

Rajasthan Expands Urban Jobs Scheme to New Municipal Bodies

Recently, the Government of Rajasthan has decided to launch the Urban Employment Guarantee Scheme in 42 newly created Municipal Councils. This decision comes as a victory for villagers who lost employment opportunities when their village panchayats were converted into urban local bodies.

Details of the Urban Employment Guarantee Scheme

• The scheme aims to provide guaranteed employment works in the newly constituted Municipal Councils across 27 districts in Rajasthan.
• Until regular posts of officials are created, the urban bodies nearest to the councils will be designated as in-charge.

Background of the Issue

• Works under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme were halted in village panchayats converted into urban local bodies in July last year.
• This affected villagers who relied on the scheme for their livelihood.
• In response, villagers initiated an indefinite dharna at Bhim in January-end to demand the restart of employment works.

Role of Rajasthan Unorganised Labour Union

• The agitation was led by the Rajasthan Unorganised Labour Union, which is associated with the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS).
• The MKSS is known for its role in the movement for the right to information and has been active in advocating for the rights of unorganised workers in Rajasthan.

Urban Employment Guarantee Scheme in Rajasthan

In September 2022, the Rajasthan government launched the Urban Employment Guarantee Scheme, named after former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The scheme aims to provide economic support to urban poor by offering 100 days of work annually, similar to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) for rural areas.

• The primary objective of the scheme is to provide guaranteed employment to residents of urban local bodies in Rajasthan, ensuring a source of income for families in need.
• Residents aged 18 to 60 years within the limits of urban local bodies are eligible to demand and receive employment under the scheme.

Types of Work: The scheme offers a variety of work opportunities, including:

• Tree plantation
• Pond cleaning
• Garbage collection and segregation
• Catching stray animals
• Other community service activities
• Implementation: The scheme is implemented at the local level, with participants submitting requests for job cards and work allocation to the relevant authorities, such as the Block Development Officer.
• Impact: The Urban Employment Guarantee Scheme is expected to provide a significant boost to the livelihoods of urban poor in Rajasthan, helping to alleviate poverty and improve living standards through guaranteed employment opportunities.

Rajasthan Government: Innovative Tourism Policy for Economic Boost

The Rajasthan government is set to introduce a new policy aimed at enhancing tourism in the state. This policy may involve:

• Regularization of Hotels in Residential Areas: Addressing the long-standing demand of the hotel industry by regularizing hotels operating in residential zones.
• Changes in Bar Licensing for Heritage Restaurants: Adjusting the rules for granting bar licenses to heritage restaurants, making it easier for them to operate.
• Inclusion of Service Apartments in the Tourism Sector: Expanding accommodation options for tourists by linking service apartments with the tourism sector.
• Opening of Resorts in Eco-Sensitive Zones: Allowing the establishment of resorts in eco-sensitive zones through changes in the master plan, promoting sustainable tourism development.
• Collaboration with Other Departments: Working with various departments to ensure the effective implementation of the new tourism policy.
• Focus on Rural Tourism, Guest House Regulation, and Heritage Restaurants: Including provisions for rural tourism, regulating guest houses, and supporting heritage restaurants in the policy.
• Involvement of Tour Operators and Travel Agents: Engaging tour operators and travel agents in the formulation of the policy to ensure broader stakeholder participation.
• Development of Important Tourist Sites, Fairs, and Festivals: Outlining strategies for developing key tourist sites and supporting fairs and festivals to enhance tourism experiences in the state.

Introduction of 500 Electric Buses in Seven Cities of Rajasthan

In an effort to combat air pollution and enhance public transportation, 500 electric buses are set to be introduced in seven cities of Rajasthan. The initiative aims to provide convenience for commuters and reduce fuel consumption.

• Cities Involved: The electric buses will operate in Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Ajmer, Bikaner, Bharatpur, and Udaipur.
• Bus Distribution: - Jaipur will have the highest number of buses, with a maximum of 300.
  - Jodhpur will have 70 buses.
• Implementation: The Local Self Government Department, in collaboration with Convergence Energy Services Limited, will operate and maintain the buses.
• Benefits: - Strengthening the public transport network in these cities.
  - Improving the standard of urban life.
  - Reducing air pollution and fuel consumption.

About Convergence Energy Services Limited

• Convergence Energy Services Limited is a green energy initiative under the Energy Efficiency Services Ltd (EESL) Group, which is owned by central public sector undertakings under the Ministry of Power and New and Renewable Energy.
• The organization focuses on integrating various sectors such as electricity, transport, and home appliances to create scalable models through government partnerships and innovative financing methods like carbon markets.

About Energy Efficiency Services Ltd (EESL)

• EESL is a joint venture involving National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC), Power Finance Corporation, Rural Electrification Corporation, and POWERGRID, established under the Ministry of Power.
• The company aims to facilitate energy efficiency projects in India, which is estimated to have a market potential of Rs. 74,000 crore, leading to energy savings of up to 20% of current consumption.
• EESL acts as a resource center for capacity building of State Discoms, financial institutions, and other stakeholders.

About Discoms

• Discoms, or Distribution Companies, are responsible for distributing electricity to consumers in a specific area.
• They play a crucial role in the implementation of energy efficiency projects and capacity building initiatives.

Establishment of ESIC Sub-Regional Office in Rajasthan

Overview

• In the recent 231st meeting of the Standing Committee of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), it was decided to set up a Sub-Regional Office in Alwar, Rajasthan.
• This initiative aims to benefit approximately 12 lakh insured workers and beneficiaries of the ESI Scheme residing in the districts of Alwar, Khairthal-Tijara, Kothputli-Behror, Bharatpur, and Deeg.

Construction of New ESI Hospitals

• During the same meeting, an estimated cost of Rs. 1128.21 crore was approved for the construction of seven new ESI hospitals in various locations across India.
• The proposed sites for the new hospitals include:
  • Harohalli, Karnataka
  • Narsapura, Karnataka
  • Bommasandra, Karnataka
  • Meerut, Uttar Pradesh
  • Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh
  • Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh
  • Duburi, Odisha

About the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC)

• The ESIC is a multidimensional social security system that provides socioeconomic protection to the worker population and their immediate dependents covered under the Employees’ State Insurance Scheme (ESI).
• The ESI Scheme, embodied in the Employees’ State Insurance Act, 1948, aims to protect employees against the impacts of sickness, maternity, disablement, and death due to employment injury, and to provide medical care to insured persons and their families.

Coverage of the ESI Scheme

• The ESI Scheme applies to factories and establishments such as road transport, hotels, restaurants, cinemas, newspapers, shops, and educational/medical institutions with 10 or more employees.
• In some states, the threshold limit for coverage is still 20 employees.
• Employees drawing wages up to Rs. 15,000 a month are entitled to social security cover under the ESI Act.
• Recently, the wage ceiling for coverage has been enhanced from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 21,000.

ESI Corporation extends benefits to construction workers

• The ESI Corporation has expanded the advantages of the Employees' State Insurance (ESI) Scheme to workers engaged on construction sites in areas where the scheme is implemented, starting from August 1, 2015.
• The ESI Scheme is rolled out on a district basis and is currently operational in 526 districts across 34 states and union territories.

Rajasthan signs MoUs to enhance energy sector

• The Rajasthan government has recently signed five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) worth ₹1.60 lakh crore to boost energy production, strengthen the energy transmission system, and establish new projects for the generation of thermal and renewable energy in the state.
• Under these agreements, various projects for power generation, including thermal and renewable energy initiatives, are set to be developed in collaboration with central undertakings and state power corporations.
• Key agreements include:
• An MoU between Rajasthan Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (RVUN) and the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) for thermal projects with a capacity of 3,325 MW.
• An investment agreement of ₹10,000 crore between Rajasthan Electricity Transmission Corporation and Power Grid Corporation to enhance the power transmission infrastructure in the state.
• A Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) between Rajasthan Urja Vikas Nigam and SJVN for the supply of 600 MW of power from solar projects.
• An MoU between the Rural Electrification Corporation and the state government to develop the infrastructure sector in Rajasthan.

Tejas aircraft crash during training in Rajasthan

• A light combat aircraft, Tejas, crashed near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, during an operational training sortie. This incident marks the first crash involving the indigenously-built Tejas jet.
• Fortunately, the pilot ejected safely, and there were no reported casualties.
• The crash occurred approximately 100 km from the Pokhran desert, where a major military exercise called ‘Bharat Shakti’ was taking place, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and top military officials. The Tejas aircraft was expected to participate in this exercise.
• The Tejas aircraft is designed primarily for air combat and offensive air support missions, with secondary roles in reconnaissance and anti-ship operations.
• The Tejas jets are manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), a state-run aerospace and defence company. In February 2021, the Indian defence ministry contracted HAL for the procurement of 83 Tejas MK-1A jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
• Bharat Shakti is a significant tri-Service military exercise demonstrating the firepower of the Army, Air Force, and Navy, featuring only indigenously developed weapon platforms and systems. The exercise reflects the concept of self-reliant India and showcases the capabilities of the Indian armed forces.
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), headquartered in Bangalore, is one of the oldest and largest aerospace and defence manufacturers globally, established on December 23, 1940. It operates under the Ministry of Defence.

Rajasthan Government to Provide Free Seed Kits to Enhance Millet Production

Recently, the Rajasthan government made an important decision to distribute free seeds of various millets and coarse grains to farmers across the state. This initiative aims to significantly boost the production of millets, which are a crucial part of the agricultural landscape in Rajasthan.

Details of the Free Seed Distribution

• The state government plans to provide free mini kits of various seeds to millions of farmers, including:
• Maize Seeds : 1.2 million farmers will receive these seeds.
• Pearl Millet (Bajra) Seeds : 800,000 farmers will be given these seeds.
• Mustard Seeds : 700,000 farmers will receive mustard seeds.
• Moong Seeds : 400,000 farmers will be provided with moong seeds.
• Sorghum (Jowar) and Moth Seeds : 100,000 farmers will receive these seeds.

Rajasthan's Millet Production

• Rajasthan plays a significant role in the country’s millet production, contributing 26% to the total.
• The state is particularly known for its production of pearl millet (bajra) and sorghum (jowar), accounting for 41% of the country’s bajra production.

Rajasthan Millet Promotion Mission

• The Rajasthan government launched the Rajasthan Millet Promotion Mission in 2022-23 to enhance millet production and processing.
• Under this mission, a provision of Rs 40 crore was made to establish 100 primary processing units for millets, aimed at farmers, entrepreneurs, and voluntary organizations.

Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)

• The PM-KISAN scheme, launched on February 24, 2019, is a Central Sector Scheme funded 100% by the Government of India.
• Implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, the scheme provides Rs 6,000 per year to all landholding farmers, irrespective of their landholding size, transferred in three equal installments directly to their bank accounts.

Development of Roads in Rajasthan

Recently, Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, approved a substantial amount of Rs 972.80 crore for the widening and strengthening of roads in Rajasthan. This funding is aimed at improving the infrastructure of 31 major district roads and State Highways across the state.

Funding for Road Over Bridges and Flyovers

• An additional Rs 384.56 crore has been sanctioned for the construction of 7 Road Over Bridges, Road Under Bridges, and Flyovers in various districts of Rajasthan. This funding comes under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) Setu Bandhan Yojana.

Setu Bandhan Yojana

The Setu Bandhan Yojana is a program initiated by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. Its primary objective is to facilitate the construction of Rail Over Bridges (ROBs), Rail Under Bridges (RUBs), and Bridges on State Roads. By replacing existing level crossings with these bridges, the program aims to enhance road safety and reduce accidents at these locations.

Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF)

• The Central Road and Infrastructure Fund, previously known as the Central Road Fund, was established in 2000 under the Central Road Fund Act, 2000.
• The fund is composed of a cess imposed along with the excise duty on petrol and diesel.
• Initially, the administrative control of the CRIF was under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. However, it is now under the Ministry of Finance.

Rajasthan Recognizes Ramgarh Crater as India's 1st Geo-Heritage Site

Recently, the Rajasthan government officially recognized the Ramgarh Crater, a 3-km diameter site in Baran district formed 165 million years ago by a meteor impact, as India's first Geo-Heritage Site.

Significance of Ramgarh Crater

• The Ramgarh Crater is important for its ecosystem services, biodiversity, cultural, and heritage value to local communities and society.
• It is designated as a Conservation Reserve under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, reflecting its ecological significance.
• The Pushkar Talab within the crater is a unique source of both saline and alkaline water, enhancing the area's beauty and biodiversity.

Cultural Heritage

• The Ramgarh Crater showcases an important interchange of human values within a cultural area, evident in advancements in architecture, technology, monumental arts, town planning, or landscape design.
• An example is the Bhand Deva Temple, influenced by the Chandela dynasty's temples at Khajuraho, which adds to the site's uniqueness due to its construction on a meteor impact crater.

Geological Significance

• The Ramgarh Crater is a meteor impact site with a diameter of 3.5 kilometers, located in the Kota plateau adjacent to Ramgarh village in Baran district, Rajasthan.
• It is recognized as the third impact crater in India, with its size between the confirmed craters of Dhala in Madhya Pradesh (14 km diameter) and Lonar in Maharashtra (1.8 km diameter).

Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972

• The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, provides a legal framework for protecting various species of wild animals and plants, managing their habitats, and regulating trade in wild animals, plants, and products made from them.
• It lists schedules of plants and animals that receive varying degrees of protection and monitoring by the government.
• The Act facilitated India's entry into the CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).
• Following the reorganisation act, the Wildlife Protection Act now applies to Jammu and Kashmir, which was previously excluded.

Rajasthan CM Announces Multiple Cultural Heritage Projects

Recently, the Chief Minister of Rajasthan announced the construction of various panoramas and museums in 12 locations to preserve and showcase the historical and cultural heritage of the state.

Objectives of the Projects

• The initiative aims to educate the youth about Rajasthan's historical roots and values by highlighting the lives of deities, great warriors, and saints.
• The government intends to showcase the contributions and stories of these historical figures to instill a sense of pride and awareness among the younger generation.

List of Proposed Panoramas

• Shri Mahavir Panorama at Mahavir Temple, Karauli district
• Braj Chaurasi Kos Parikrama Marg, Bharatpur district
• Jain Muni Vidyasagar Maharaj Panorama, Ajmer
• Bhakta Shiromani Karma Bai Panorama, Kalwa, Didwana-Kuchaman
• Jasnath Ji Panorama, Katriyasar, Bikaner
• Khema Baba Panorama, Baytu, Balotra
• Bhamashah Panorama, Chittorgarh
• Rao Chandrasen Panorama, Jodhpur
• Gokula Jat Panorama, Bharatpur
• Jaisalmer Panorama, Jaisalmer

Additional Projects

• A memorial in Jaipur to honor the contributions of villages in the first freedom movement of 1857.
• A museum dedicated to celebrating the brave women of Rajasthan and their contributions.

Shri Mahavir Ji Temple

• Located in Shri Mahavirji, Karauli district, this temple is considered one of the miraculous pilgrimage sites of Jains.
• Situated on the banks of the Gambhir River in Hindaun Block, the temple was built in the 17th century by Jain merchant Shri Amar Chand Bilala after the discovery of the idol of Mahavira.

Khema Baba Temple

• A Hindu temple dedicated to the folk deity Lord Sidh Shree Khema Baba.
• Located near a sand dune in Baytu, Barmer District, Rajasthan, this temple is dedicated to a local folk deity worshipped by the community.

Bhamashah of Chittorgarh

• Bhama Shah was a prominent general, minister, and close associate of Maharana Pratap Singh. His financial support was crucial in helping Maharana Pratap rebuild his army and regain much of his lost territory.
• Bhamashah Jayanti, commemorating his birth, is celebrated on June 29 each year.
• A memorial dedicated to Bhamashah can be found in Udaipur. In 2000, the Government of India honored him by issuing a postage stamp in his memory.

Trade Bodies Urge Rajasthan Government to Make Changes in Investment Policies

Recently, trade bodies in Rajasthan have urged the state government to revise certain policies, including the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme (RIPS) and the Mukhyamantri Laghu Udyog Protsahan Yojana (MLUPY), to make the state more attractive for investors.

• Under the RIPS policy, investors receive subsidies on various charges such as state goods and services tax (SGST), electricity fees, land tax, and stamp duty.
• The MLUPY scheme offers concessional bank loans to encourage the establishment of enterprises in the state, thereby generating employment opportunities.
• A delegation from the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham) met with Rajasthan’s principal secretary for industries and commerce to discuss these issues.
• During the meeting, it was highlighted that interest benefits under RIPS were applicable to term loans but not to working capital loans.
• The delegation also suggested the need for industry-wide awareness programs regarding these schemes and recommended including the warehousing sector under the purview of industries eligible for these benefits.

Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme (RIPS)

The Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme-2019 was launched on December 17, 2019, to foster rapid, sustainable, and balanced industrial development in the state.

• Under this scheme, new investments in the manufacturing and service sectors are eligible for significant benefits, including a 75% recharge of SGST, electricity tax, and stamp duty for a period of 7 years.
• Additional concessions, such as a 100% waiver of market fees, are also provided to encourage investment.

Mukhyamantri Laghu Udyog Protsahan Yojana (MLUPY)

The Mukhyamantri Laghu Udyog Protsahan Yojana (MLUPY) aims to facilitate the establishment of enterprises in Rajasthan by providing subsidized loans through various financial institutions.

• The objective is to create new employment opportunities for all sections of society.
• Loans under this scheme are available for manufacturing, service, and business enterprises and can be accessed through institutions such as Nationalized Commercial Banks, Private Sector Scheduled Commercial Banks, Regional Rural Banks, Urban Cooperative Banks, Rajasthan Financial Corporation, SIDBI, and Small Finance Banks.

Communities in Rajasthan at Risk of Losing Land

A recent notification from the Rajasthan state government has raised concerns among community dwellers in western Rajasthan about the potential loss of access to forest produce and their livelihoods.

The community is particularly worried about the state’s proposal to recognize orans (sacred groves) as deemed forests.

Deemed Forests

• Deemed forests make up about 1% of India’s forest land and are a contentious issue. They refer to land that looks like a forest but has not been officially recognized as such by the government or historical records.
• The concept of deemed forests is not clearly defined in any law, including the Forest Conservation Act of 1980.
• In the T N Godavarman Thirumalpad case of 1996, the Supreme Court accepted a broad definition of forests and stated that the term 'forest' should be understood in its dictionary sense. This includes all legally recognized forests, whether designated as reserved, protected, or otherwise, and any areas recorded as forest in government records, regardless of ownership.
• Since 1996, states have had the authority to define which areas qualify as forests, but this applies only to land not historically classified as forest in revenue records or designated as protected or reserve forests by the government.

Forest Conservation Act, 1980

• The Forest Conservation Act of 1980 requires central government permission for sustainable agro-forestry practices in forest areas. Violating this requirement is considered a criminal offense.
• The Act aims to limit deforestation, conserve biodiversity, and protect wildlife. Despite its intentions, the Act has not been entirely successful in achieving its goals.

Supreme Court Directives

• The Supreme Court, in the T N Godavarman case of 1996, directed state governments to identify deemed forests to prevent further degradation. All forests, including deemed forests, fall under Section 2 of the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.
• This section prohibits non-forestry activities such as mining, deforestation, quarrying, or infrastructure projects on such forest land without central government approval.
• However, individuals and communities are not restricted from accessing the forest for grazing or worship purposes.

Community Concerns

• The community, represented by the “Gochar Oran Sanrakshak Sangh Rajasthan” organization, has objected to the government’s decision.
• Residents rely on the forest for essential resources like gum, timber, forest produce, and wild vegetables, which are vital for their livelihoods and daily needs.
• If orans are classified as deemed forests, community members fear losing access to these crucial resources and grazing land for their livestock.

Supreme Court Considers Lifting Ban on Transmission Lines through Great Indian Bustard Habitats

Great Indian Bustard

Recently, the Supreme Court of India has taken a step towards allowing the establishment of transmission lines for solar power in Rajasthan and Gujarat, covering an area of over 67,000 square kilometers. However, the Court emphasized the need to protect 13,000 square kilometers of this area, which is critical habitat for the endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB).

The Union government's ban on overhead power cables for solar energy transmission in an 80,000 square kilometer area was deemed impractical by the Court. The Court suggested finding a balance between promoting solar energy to reduce emissions from coal-fired thermal power plants and taking all necessary measures to prevent the extinction of the GIB.

About the Great Indian Bustard

• The Great Indian Bustard, scientifically known as Ardeotis nigriceps, is India’s most critically endangered bird and the state bird of Rajasthan.
• This bird is a key indicator of grassland health, as it represents the overall condition of grassland ecosystems.
• Its population is mainly found in Rajasthan and Gujarat, with smaller groups in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.

Threats to the Great Indian Bustard

• The Great Indian Bustard faces several threats, including:
• Collision and Electrocution: The bird is at risk of colliding with or being electrocuted by power transmission lines.
• Hunting: Although hunting is illegal in India, it still occurs in neighboring countries like Pakistan.
• Habitat Loss: The bird’s habitat is being lost and altered due to extensive agricultural expansion.

Protection Status

• The Great Indian Bustard is protected under various international and national laws:
• IUCN Red List: Listed as Critically Endangered.
• CITES: Listed in Appendix I, which prohibits international trade of the species.
• CMS: Listed in Appendix I, which aims to protect migratory species.
• Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Listed in Schedule I, which provides the highest level of protection to endangered species.

Singapore President's Visit to India

Arrival in Jodhpur

• Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam recently arrived in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, as part of his visit to India.
• His visit coincides with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's trip to Singapore, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two countries.

Background of President Tharman Shanmugaratnam

• Tharman Shanmugaratnam, an economist of Indian origin, was sworn in as the 9th President of Singapore in September 2023.
• He has a distinguished background in public service and economics, making him a prominent figure in Singapore's leadership.

Strengthening India-Singapore Relations

• During his visit, President Shanmugaratnam aims to strengthen the historical ties between India and Singapore, which are rooted in strong commercial, cultural, and people-to-people links.
• India was among the first countries to recognize Singapore's independence in 1965, laying the foundation for a robust bilateral relationship.
• The relationship is built on shared values, economic opportunities, and converging interests on key global issues.

Bilateral Mechanisms and Dialogues

• India and Singapore engage in over 20 regular bilateral mechanisms, dialogues, and exercises, reflecting the depth of their cooperation.
• These mechanisms cover various areas, including trade, security, and cultural exchanges.

Shared Membership in International Forums

• Both countries are members of several international forums, including the East Asia Summit, G20, Commonwealth, and Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA).
• These memberships facilitate cooperation on regional and global issues, enhancing the strategic partnership between India and Singapore.

Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA)

• IORA is an intergovernmental organization aimed at promoting economic cooperation and regional integration among countries bordering the Indian Ocean.
• Member states work on initiatives related to trade, investment, and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean region, fostering collaboration and mutual benefits.

Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS)

• IONS is a voluntary initiative that brings together navies of Indian Ocean Rim littoral states to enhance maritime cooperation and regional security.
• The symposium focuses on addressing common maritime challenges, sharing best practices, and strengthening naval partnerships among member states.

World's First Om-Shaped Temple in Rajasthan

In the Pali district of Rajasthan, a stunning temple in the shape of the sacred symbol 'Om' is being constructed. This temple is set to become the world's first designed in this iconic form.

• Known as the 'Om Aakar' temple, this monumental structure covers a vast area of 250 acres and is being built in the Nagara style in Jadan village, Pali district.
• According to sources, the ambitious project began with the foundation stone being laid in 1995, with hopes of completion by 2023-24.
• The temple will house 1,008 idols of Lord Mahadev and 12 Jyotirlingas within its sacred grounds. Standing at a height of 135 feet, the temple is supported by 2,000 pillars and will have 108 rooms on its premises.
• The central feature of the temple complex will be the tomb of Guru Madhavanand ji. The top section of the temple will include a sanctum featuring a shivling made from rhinestone sourced from the Bansi hill in Dholpur.
• The visionary behind this grand project is Vishwa Guru Maha Mandleshwar Paramahansa Swami Maheswara Nanda Puriji Maharaj, the founder of the Om Ashram. In Hinduism, the Om mantra is of great significance and is recited daily by followers upon waking up.

Nagara Style Temple

• In North India, it is customary for an entire temple to be constructed on a stone platform with steps leading up to it.
• Unlike in South India, these temples do not typically have elaborate boundary walls or gateways.
• While the earliest temples featured a single tower or shikhara, later ones included multiple towers.
• The garbhagriha, or inner sanctum, is always situated directly beneath the tallest tower.
• There are various subdivisions of nagara temples based on the shape of the shikhara.

Types of Shikhara

• The simple shikhara, which is square at the base and whose walls curve or slope inward to a point on top, is commonly known as the 'latina' or the rekha-prasada type of shikhara.
• The phamsana type shikhara is broader and shorter than the latina type. Their roofs consist of several slabs that gently rise to a single point over the centre of the building.
• The valabhi type is a rectangular building with a roof that rises into a vaulted chamber.

Adani Green Commissions 180 MW Solar Plant In Rajasthan

Adani Green Energy has recently inaugurated a 180-MW solar power plant in Devikot, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.

• Power Purchase Agreement (PPA): The solar plant operates under a 25-year PPA with the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI).
• Energy Production: The plant is expected to generate approximately 540 million electricity units annually, enough to power over 1.1 lakh homes and reduce around 0.39 million tonnes of CO2 emissions.
• Technology Used: Advanced bifacial solar photovoltaic modules and horizontal single-axis solar trackers (HSAT) have been installed to enhance energy generation efficiency by tracking the sun throughout the day.
• Water Conservation: The plant utilizes waterless robotic module cleaning systems, which are suitable for the arid conditions of Jaisalmer.
• Power Purchase Agreement (PPA): A PPA is a long-term contract, typically lasting between 5 to 20 years, between an electricity generator and a customer, such as a utility, government, or company. It involves the purchase of energy at a pre-negotiated price and is crucial for financing independently owned electricity generators, especially in the renewable energy sector.

Gulaal Gota

Recently, a unique tradition called Gulaal Gota, which dates back approximately 400 years, was celebrated in Jaipur, Rajasthan. This tradition involves the making of small balls filled with dry gulaal, and these balls are used during festive occasions.

• Gulaal Gota is a small ball weighing around 20 grams when filled, made of lac and filled with dry gulaal.
• Lac, the primary material for Gulaal Gota, is sourced from Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. Lac is a resinous substance secreted by certain insects, and its production involves killing a large number of insects. Lac is used in various applications, including the production of lac bangles.
• The process of making Gulaal Gotas involves several steps: boiling lac in water to make it flexible, shaping it, adding colour, heating it, and then blowing it into a spherical shape using a blower called “phunkni ”.
• Gulaal Gotas are traditionally made by Muslim lac makers in Jaipur, known as Manihaars, who learned the craft from Hindu lac makers in Bagru, a town near Jaipur.
• To support their craft, the government of India has issued “artisan cards ” to lac bangle and Gulaal Gota makers, enabling them to benefit from government schemes.
• In an effort to preserve this tradition, some Gulaal Gota makers are advocating for a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which would protect the uniqueness of their product and prevent imitation.

Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a legal protection for products that have a specific geographical origin, ensuring that only authorized users can use the product name and protecting it from imitation. A registered GI is valid for 10 years and is overseen by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Rajasthan's Leadership in India's Green Energy Transition

Rajasthan is at the forefront of India's shift towards green energy, boasting over 26,800 MW of installed renewable energy capacity.

• In the first 10 months of 2023-24, Rajasthan generated 39,300 million units of green energy, marking a threefold increase compared to the same period in 2019-20.
• Renewable energy sources now constitute 64.5% of Rajasthan's power generation capacity, outpacing Gujarat's 47% renewable energy mix.
• Rajasthan has also surpassed Tamil Nadu to become the leading state in wind power generation.

Five Panchamrit Targets

During the UNFCCC COP 26, the Prime Minister introduced five Panchamrit targets aimed at enhancing India's renewable energy capacity and reducing carbon emissions by 2030.

• Achieving 500 GW of non-fossil energy capacity.
• Sourcing 50% of energy from renewable sources.
• Decreasing projected carbon emissions by one billion tonnes.
• Lowering carbon intensity by less than 45%.
• Attaining net zero emissions by 2070.