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GS3/Science and Technology

NASA Captures Image of Mars’ Arsia Mons Volcano

Source: TOI

NASA’s Mars Odyssey orbiter has recently captured a stunning image of Arsia Mons, which is recognized as one of the largest volcanoes on Mars.

Key Takeaways

• Arsia Mons is located in the Tharsis region of Mars, near the equator.
• The volcano is part of the Tharsis Montes trio, which includes Pavonis Mons and Ascraeus Mons.
• It rises approximately 20 km (12 miles) high and spans 450 kilometers in diameter.
• Arsia Mons features a summit caldera that measures 120 kilometers across.
• It is characterized as a shield volcano with gentle slopes formed by successive lava flows.
• The volcano is known for its cloud activity, particularly water-ice clouds that form near its summit.

Additional Details

• Location: Arsia Mons is situated in the Tharsis region, which is a prominent volcanic area on Mars.
• Significance of Recent Imaging: The new images show Arsia Mons emerging through morning haze, providing insights into Martian terrain and weather patterns.
• Scientific Importance: Observations from Arsia Mons assist researchers in analyzing Mars' weather, seasonal climate patterns, and atmospheric behavior.
• Exploration Support: Data from this region are crucial for planetary weather models and safe mission planning for future robotic and human missions.

The Mars Odyssey orbiter, launched in 2001, continues to be NASA's longest-operating spacecraft at Mars, significantly contributing to the understanding of the planet's climate and geology.

For context, consider the following statements regarding the Mangalyaan launched by ISRO:

Consider the following statements:

• 1. The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission.
• 2. It made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit Mars after the USA.
• 3. It made India the only country to successfully place its spacecraft into Mars' orbit on its first attempt.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• Options: (a) 1 only
• (b) 2 and 3 only
• (c) 1 and 3 only
• (d) 1, 2 and 3

GS3/Defence & Security

Indravati National Park

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

Recently, security forces have engaged with Maoist groups during anti-Naxal operations in the Indravati National Park region of Chhattisgarh. This development highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining security in sensitive ecological zones.

Key Takeaways

• Indravati National Park is located in the Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh.
• Established as a tiger reserve in 1983 under India's Project Tiger initiative.
• Named after the Indravati River, which forms its northern boundary with Maharashtra.

Additional Details

• Location: Indravati National Park is situated in the Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh and was designated as a tiger reserve in 1983.
• Topography: The park features a varied landscape with hilly terrain, altitudes ranging from 177 to 599 meters above sea level, and links to several other tiger reserves, including Kawal (Telangana), Tadoba (Maharashtra), and Kanha (Madhya Pradesh).
• Vegetation: The park is characterized by three primary forest types: Moist Mixed Deciduous Forest with Teak, Moist Mixed Deciduous Forest without Teak, and Southern Dry Mixed Deciduous.
• Flora: Common tree species found in the park include teak, achar, karra, kullu, shisham, semal, haldu, arjun, bel, and Jamun.
• Fauna: The park is notable for housing one of the last populations of rare wild buffalo, along with other wildlife such as Nilgai, Black Buck, Sambar, Gaur, Tiger, Leopard, Chital, and Sloth bears.

In summary, Indravati National Park not only serves as a vital ecological region but also faces significant security challenges due to its geographical and socio-political context. This highlights the need for effective conservation strategies alongside security measures.

GS3/Environment

Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP)

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

Concerns have been raised by experts regarding the ongoing construction of the Ken-Betwa river linking project, which is situated within the Panna Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh. The project is anticipated to have a significant negative impact on the wildlife population within the reserve.

Key Takeaways

• The Ken-Betwa Link Project aims to transfer surplus water from the Ken River in Madhya Pradesh to the Betwa basin in Uttar Pradesh.
• This project is expected to promote prosperity in the drought-prone Bundelkhand region.
• Phase I includes building the 77-meter-high Daudhan Dam and a 221 km canal system.
• The project will generate 103 MW of hydropower and 27 MW of solar power.
• Water utilization is projected at 4,543.52 MCM, benefiting both Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

Additional Details

• Phase I: Involves the construction of the Daudhan Dam and a canal system, which includes a 2 km tunnel for efficient water transfer.
• Phase II: Will include the Lower Orr Dam, Kotha Barrage, and Bina Complex Projects to further enhance water availability.
• A critical concern is the flooding of approximately 6,000 hectares of core area in the Panna Tiger Reserve, which threatens the local wildlife habitats.

In conclusion, while the Ken-Betwa Link Project has the potential to address water scarcity issues in the Bundelkhand region, it raises significant environmental concerns that need to be addressed to protect the Panna Tiger Reserve and its wildlife.

GS2/Polity

Civil Registration System Overview

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

A recent report from the Civil Registration System (CRS) indicates that approximately 86.5 lakh deaths were registered in the country during the year 2022. This figure marks a significant decrease compared to the peak numbers seen in 2021.

Key Takeaways

• The CRS is responsible for the official recording of vital events such as births, deaths, and stillbirths.
• Registration is governed by the Registration of Births and Deaths (RBD) Act, 1969, which was amended in 2023.
• The Act aims to ensure uniformity and comparability in the registration processes across various states and union territories.

Additional Details

• Legal Framework: The RBD Act was enacted in 1969 and implemented in most states and union territories starting from April 1, 1970.
• The CRS is categorized under the Concurrent List of the Constitution of India, specifically at Sl. No. 30.
• The Office of the Registrar General, India (ORGI) compiles data on causes of death from the Chief Registrar of Births and Deaths in various states and UTs.
• Significance: The vital statistics generated through civil registration are crucial for designing effective and evidence-based policies in numerous sectors.

This data is vital for understanding demographic trends and improving public health policies, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive civil registration systems.

GS3/Environment

Discovery of Spathaspina noohi

Source: Northeast News

Why in News?

A new species of beetle named Spathaspina noohi has been discovered in the biodiverse forests of Meghalaya, India, highlighting the rich ecological diversity of the region.

Key Takeaways

• Spathaspina noohi is a new species identified in Ri Bhoi district.
• The beetle belongs to the weevil family (Curculionidae), which consists of over 60,000 species worldwide.
• This species features a unique sword-like spine on its back, leading to its classification in a new genus.

Additional Details

• Geographical Location: The beetle was found in the Umran area at an elevation of 781 metres.
• Ecological Role: While many weevils are agricultural pests, Spathaspina noohi contributes to ecological balance by controlling invasive plant species.
• Taxonomy: It has been assigned to a new genus, combining the Latin words spatha (sword) and spina (spine) due to its distinctive feature.
• Distribution: The subfamily Ceutorhynchinae, to which this beetle belongs, contains over 1,300 species, predominantly found in the Palaearctic and Oriental regions, but absent in New Zealand, Oceania, Antarctica, and southern South America.
• Identification: Ceutorhynchinae beetles are characterized by their sturdy bodies and the unique ability to tuck their snouts between their front legs when at rest.

This discovery not only adds to the biodiversity knowledge of Meghalaya but also underscores the importance of conservation efforts in these habitats, which are crucial for maintaining ecological balance.

GS1/History & Culture

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Source: Deccan Herald

A significant religious event, the 'Maha Kumbhabhishekam', was recently conducted at the renowned Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram after a gap of 270 years.

Key Takeaways

• The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
• It is believed to be the world's richest temple, with an immense wealth of treasures revealed in 2011.

Additional Details

• Historical Significance: The earliest recorded mention of the temple dates back to the 8th or 9th century CE, although it is likely older. The temple has undergone multiple renovations, most notably by Martanda Varma, the king of Travancore, who donated the kingdom to the deity in 1750.
• Architectural Features: The temple showcases a unique blend of Kerala and Dravidian architectural styles. The idol of Vishnu is depicted in the Anantha shayanam posture, symbolizing eternal yogic rest on the serpent Adisheshan.
• The temple features a magnificent seven-tier gopuram adorned with intricate carvings and designs.
• The flag post (dhwaja stamba) stands at approximately 80 feet and is covered with gold-plated copper sheets.
• Additionally, the temple houses around 3 million palm leaf manuscripts known as the Mathilakam records, which document the administrative and financial history of the temple town and the Travancore kingdom over six centuries.

In summary, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is not only a significant religious site but also a treasure trove of historical and cultural importance, reflecting the rich heritage of Kerala and its devotion to Lord Vishnu.

GS1/Geography

Fuego Volcano Eruptions and Their Impact

Source: Republic World

Guatemalan authorities have recently initiated the evacuation of over 500 individuals due to the activity of the Fuego Volcano, known as Central America's most active volcano, which has been releasing gas and ash.

Key Takeaways

• Location: Fuego Volcano, or Volcan de Fuego, translates to "Volcano of Fire" and is situated near Guatemala's former capital, Antigua.
• Activity: The volcano has erupted more than 60 times since 1524, making it the most historically active volcano in Central America.
• Recent Eruptions: A deadly eruption in 2018 resulted in 194 fatalities and 234 people missing; however, smaller eruptions have continued since then.

Additional Details

• Stratovolcano: Fuego is classified as a stratovolcano, characterized by its steep sides and conical shape, formed from viscous lava that accumulates around the vent.
• Volcanic Activity: The ongoing activity includes ashfall, pyroclastic flows, lava flows, and lahars, with multiple small eruptions occurring daily.
• Geological Context: Guatemala is positioned on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," a region known for its significant seismic and volcanic activity.
• Rock Composition: Stratovolcanoes, including Fuego, typically erupt andesite rock, though they can produce a variety of rocks based on tectonic settings.

The Fuego Volcano's recent activity underscores the importance of monitoring volcanic regions and implementing evacuation plans to ensure the safety of surrounding communities.

GS3/Environment

Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure

Source: The Hindu

The Prime Minister of India recently addressed the International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (ICDRI), which took place on June 6 and 7 in Nice, France. The conference was organized by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), based in New Delhi.

Key Takeaways

• The CDRI was established in 2019 under the leadership of the Government of India.
• It is supported by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR).
• The coalition is a multi-stakeholder global partnership involving national governments, UN agencies, multilateral development banks, the private sector, and academic institutions.
• Its primary goal is to enhance the resilience of infrastructure systems to climate and disaster risks.
• The CDRI aims to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by ensuring universal access to basic services and promoting economic prosperity.

Additional Details

• Mission: The coalition's mission is to mobilize US$10 trillion in new and existing infrastructure investments by 2050, ensuring they are resilient to natural hazards and climate change.
• Impact: The initiative seeks to improve environmental quality and livelihoods for over 3 billion people globally.
• Governance Structure: The CDRI includes a Governing Council comprising all member countries and organizations, which meets annually, and an Executive Committee that oversees programs and meets biannually.
• Funding: The coalition is funded through voluntary contributions from its members.
• Membership: The CDRI consists of 46 member countries and 8 partner organizations, with its headquarters located in New Delhi, India.

This initiative underscores the importance of resilient infrastructure in the face of climate change and natural disasters, promoting a collaborative approach among various stakeholders to achieve sustainable development goals.

GS3/Economy

What is Algorithmic Trading?

Source: Business Standard

Why in News?

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has recently introduced a settlement scheme for stockbrokers who are under regulatory scrutiny for their involvement with unregulated algorithmic (algo) trading platforms.

Key Takeaways

• Algorithmic trading utilizes a computer program that follows specific instructions, known as an algorithm, to execute trades.
• This method combines computer programming with financial markets to carry out trades at precise moments, often resulting in profits that human traders cannot achieve.
• Algo trading is prevalent among both institutional and retail investors in India.

Additional Details

• Algorithmic Trading: This refers to the automated process of trading where predefined sets of instructions based on factors such as timing, price, and quantity guide the trades.
• Advantages: Algo trading enhances market liquidity and systematizes trading by minimizing the influence of human emotions on trading decisions.
• Black Swan Events: These are unexpected market disruptions that can lead to significant losses for algorithmic traders, despite their reliance on historical data and mathematical models to forecast future market movements.

In summary, while algorithmic trading presents numerous advantages and opportunities for profit, it also comes with inherent risks, particularly in the face of unpredictable market events.

GS3/Environment

Himalayan Long-Tailed Myotis: A New Bat Species

Source: TOI

Why in News?

Researchers have recently identified a new bat species known as the Himalayan long-tailed myotis (Myotis himalaicus), discovered in the Western Himalayas, specifically in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand in 2021. This species has been linked to an earlier specimen collected in Pakistan in 1998.

Key Takeaways

• The Himalayan long-tailed myotis is a newly described species.
• It is part of the Myotis frater complex, which includes bats primarily found across East and Central Asia.
• This bat is characterized by its long tail, setting it apart from other members of the Myotis genus.
• It is considered uncommon, with limited sightings reported to date.

Additional Details

• Habitat: This species is typically found in high-altitude forests, including deodar, pine, and cedar environments.
• Distribution: It is likely to be present across regions in India, Pakistan, and Nepal.
• Identification: The species was confirmed through various methods, including morphological traits and genetic analysis.
• Scientific Significance: This discovery enhances our understanding of bat diversity in the Himalayas and supports transboundary biodiversity research.

The identification of the Himalayan long-tailed myotis not only enriches the biodiversity profile of the region but also emphasizes the need for ongoing research in the area of transboundary wildlife conservation.