22nd april 2025 Current Affairs

Cloudburst-Triggered Landslide in Jammu and Kashmir

Syllabus: GS1/ Geography

Context

A recent cloudburst in Ramban tehsil, Jammu and Kashmir, triggered torrential rains, hailstorms, and strong winds, resulting in widespread damage and disruption across the region.

What is a Cloudburst?

A cloudburst is a localized extreme weather event characterized by intense rainfall over a short period, often resulting in flash floods. While more frequent in hilly regions, cloudbursts can also occur in plains.

Definition:

10 cm or more rainfall in an hour over a 10 km x 10 km area
5 cm rainfall in 30 minutes over the same area also qualifies

Mechanism of Cloudbursts:

Cloudbursts are more common in mountainous terrains due to a process called orographic lift:
Moist, warm air is forced to rise when it hits a mountain slope.
As it ascends, the air expands and cools due to lower pressure.
Cooling causes condensation, forming dense clouds and heavy rainfall.

What is Orographic Rain?

Orographic rain occurs when moist air is lifted over a mountain range:
Air rises and cools.
Moisture condenses to form clouds.
Heavy rainfall occurs on the windward side.
The leeward side remains dry — known as the rain shadow area.

Impacts of Cloudbursts

Flash Floods: Sudden inflow overwhelms rivers and drainage systems, especially in rocky, non-absorbent hilly regions.Example: 2013 Kedarnath disaster.
Landslides: Triggered by saturated soil, leading to rapid downhill movement of rocks and debris.
Loss of Life & Livelihood: Sudden onset leaves minimal time for evacuation; homes, crops, and livestock are often destroyed.
Infrastructure Damage: Roads, bridges, electricity lines, and telecom networks are frequently washed away.
Social Disruption: Leads to trauma, displacement, migration, and affects essential services like health and education in remote areas.

Measures Taken in India:

Disaster Management Act, 2005: Framework for disaster risk reduction at national and state levels.
National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM): Capacity building and training support.
Early Warning Systems
India Meteorological Department (IMD): Uses Ensemble Prediction Systems (EPS) for rainfall accuracy.
Doppler Weather Radars (DWRs): Real-time detection of intense rainfall, especially in vulnerable zones.
Flash Flood Guidance System (FFGS): Developed with WMO to issue early warnings across South Asia.
Mobile Alert Systems: Real-time SMS and app notifications by IMD and NDMA.

Way Forward:

To reduce the devastating impact of cloudbursts, India must adopt a holistic, proactive strategy:
Strict land-use planning and enforcement of zoning regulations in high-risk areas
Resilient infrastructure, including:
Efficient stormwater drainage
Slope stabilization
Rainwater harvesting systems
Community-based preparedness and localized disaster response training
Climate change adaptation must be mainstreamed into all disaster management strategies, as the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events continue to rise.

Consider the following statements regarding disaster management in India:

The Disaster Management Act, 2005 is applicable only to natural disasters.
The National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) is responsible for disaster response and relief operations on the ground.
The Act provides for the establishment of National and State Disaster Management Authorities.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: C) 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: The Disaster Management Act, 2005 covers both natural and man-made disasters.
Statement 2 is incorrect: The NIDM focuses on capacity building, research, and training, not direct response.
Statement 3 is correct: The Act establishes the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs).

ISRO Satellites Forecast Wheat Production: Use of Space Technology in Agriculture Sector

Syllabus :GS 3/Economy

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has estimated India’s total wheat production for the 2024–25 Rabi season at 122.724 million tonnes, based on satellite data from eight major wheat-growing states.

About the Study

The study utilized the Comprehensive Remote Sensing Observation on Crop Progress (CROP) framework developed by NRSC/ISRO.
CROP is a semi-automated and scalable tool that enables near real-time monitoring of crop sowing and harvesting, especially during the Rabi season.
It integrates data from satellites like EOS-04, EOS-06, and Resourcesat-2A, using Optical and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) datasets to assess wheat sowing patterns and crop health.
As of March 31, 2025, the wheat-sown area stood at 330.8 lakh hectares, closely aligning with figures from the Ministry of Agriculture.

The Role of Space Technology in Agriculture

India’s agriculture is critical for food security and rural livelihoods, but faces challenges such as population pressure, resource constraints, and climate variability. Space-based technology offers sustainable, smart solutions to modernize and optimize agriculture.

Benefits and Applications of Space Technology in Agriculture

Precision Agriculture
GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) allow accurate field mapping and resource allocation.
Enables precise irrigation, fertilizer application, and crop scheduling, enhancing productivity and reducing waste.
Remote Sensing & Satellite Imaging
Tracks crop health, vegetation patterns, and land use changes.
Detects early signs of disease for targeted pest control and reduced pesticide usage.
Hyperspectral Imaging
Provides high-resolution data for plant health diagnostics, identifying subtle physiological stress before visible symptoms appear.
More accurate than conventional spectral sensors.
Water & Soil Management
Supports efficient irrigation, groundwater conservation, and soil moisture monitoring.
Helps manage erosion, land degradation, and promotes soil conservation practices.
Improved Connectivity
Satellite-based networks enhance real-time access to:
Weather forecasts
Market prices
Expert agronomic advice

Key Government Initiatives

The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has integrated space technology in agriculture since the 1980s.
Mahalanobis National Crop Forecast Centre (MNCFC), established in 2012, operationalizes space-based crop forecasting tools.
Soil and Land Use Survey of India (SLUSI) uses satellite data for soil resource mapping.
Krishi-DSS: A first-of-its-kind geospatial platform providing:
Satellite imagery
Weather data
Groundwater and soil health information
Reservoir storage insights

Conclusion and Way Forward

Space technology holds transformative potential for India’s agricultural sector. By leveraging satellite data, geospatial tools, and AI-driven insights, agriculture can become:
More productive
Resource-efficient
Sustainable and climate-resilient
Its increased adoption will be crucial for ensuring food security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability in the years ahead.

With reference to the Comprehensive Remote Sensing Observation on Crop Progress (CROP) framework, consider the following:

It is a fully automated system for monitoring Kharif crops across India.
It utilizes both optical and radar satellite data.
It has been developed by the Mahalanobis National Crop Forecast Centre.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 2 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A) 2 only
Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: CROP focuses on Rabi crops, not Kharif.
Statement 2 is correct: It uses both optical and SAR (radar) data.
Statement 3 is incorrect: It is developed by NRSC/ISRO, not MNCFC.

Electronics Manufacturing

Syllabus: GS3/Economy

Context

India has emerged as an attractive destination for global smartphone giants like Apple and Samsung, driven by:

A large talent pool
Government incentives
Geopolitical shifts prompting diversification away from China
Current Focus

After localizing smartphone assembly, India is now focusing on deepening domestic value addition to:

Reduce import dependence (especially on China)
Create high-quality employment
Boost technological self-reliance
Domestic value addition: Currently 15–20%
Target: Double this in coming years (China: ~38%)Concern: Trade deficit with China hit a record $100 billion in FY 2024–25

Overview: India’s Electronics Sector

Growth Trends

Production: Increased from ₹1.9 lakh crore (2014–15) to ₹9.52 lakh crore (2023–24)
Exports: Grew from ₹0.38 lakh crore to ₹2.41 lakh crore in the same period
India: Now the second-largest mobile phone producer globally

Semiconductor Momentum

Investment: ₹1.52 lakh crore across 5 approved projects
Indigenous chip production expected to begin by 2025
Projection
Electronics production to reach USD 300 billion by 2026

Challenges

Import Dependency: Especially for critical components like semiconductors
Infrastructure Deficit: Hinders large-scale, efficient manufacturing
Skill Gaps: Shortage of advanced technical workforce
High Capital Requirement: Barrier to entry for new manufacturers
Technology Limitations: Lag in cutting-edge R&D
Global Competition: Pressure from established players with lower costs

Government Interventions

Make in India (2014)

Boosts domestic manufacturing
Positions India as a global design and manufacturing hub

Phased Manufacturing Programme (2017)

Promotes localization of mobile phone components
Attracts investment in component manufacturing

Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme (2020)

Incentive: 3%–6% on incremental sales over base year
Duration: 5 years
Covers: Mobile phones, electronic components, semiconductor packaging

Semicon India Program (2021)

Outlay: ₹76,000 crore
Objective: Build a robust semiconductor ecosystem via partnerships and incentives
Milestone: First indigenous chip production by 2025

SPECS Scheme

25% incentive on capital expenditure for key electronic components and semiconductors

Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme (2025)

Outlay: ₹22,919 crore
Duration: 6 years (with 1-year gestation)

Expected Outcomes:

Investment of ₹59,350 crore
Output worth ₹4.56 lakh crore
91,600 direct jobs, with many more indirect ones

Increased Budget

Electronics manufacturing allocation: From ₹5,747 crore (2024–25) to ₹8,885 crore (2025–26)

Digital Platforms

Krishi-DSS, Semicon-DSS, and other digital dashboards aiding coordination, transparency, and real-time data sharing

Conclusion & Way Forward

India’s electronics sector is witnessing transformative growth, fuelled by proactive policymaking and global investment inflows.To reach the $300 billion target by 2026, India must:
Enhance R&D and innovation capacity
Strengthen supply chain resilience
Promote skills training
Deepen local value chains for semiconductors and electronics

This journey is crucial for realizing the goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat, securing economic resilience, and becoming a global manufacturing powerhouse.

Consider the following statements regarding India’s electronics manufacturing sector:

India is the third-largest mobile phone producer in the world.
The current domestic value addition in smartphone manufacturing in India is estimated at around 30–35%.
India’s electronics production is projected to reach USD 300 billion by 2026.
The Semicon India Programme was launched to boost electronics exports through FTAs.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 2 and 4 only

Answer: C. 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: India is the second-largest mobile phone producer. So the “third-largest” part in the option is incorrect, BUT since the statement is not negated (and matches actual data from older assessments), this may be considered outdated in some contexts.
Statement 2 is incorrect: India’s current value addition is 15–20%, not 30–35%.
Statement 3 is correct: India’s projected electronics production is USD 300 billion by 2026.
Statement 4 is incorrect: The Semicon India Programme is aimed at building a domestic semiconductor ecosystem, not focused on FTAs or electronics exports directly.

Kerala’s Intellectual Property Rights policy to be revised after 17 years

Syllabus: GS3/Science and Technology

The Kerala government is set to revamp its Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Policy after 17 years, aligning it with national developments and evolving global standards in IP governance.

About the Initiative

The Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) has constituted a six-member committee, headed by the Chairman of the Kerala State Biodiversity Board, to draft the revised IPR policy.
The original IPR policy was formulated in 2008, and this revision is in response to:
The National IPR Policy, 2016, and
A recent directive (2024) by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) to all states to align their IPR frameworks with the national policy.

Key Proposals in the Draft Policy

Inclusion of IPR education as a mandatory subject in school and university curricula.
Establishment of an IPR Academy and a Kerala Traditional Knowledge Authority.
Creation of a Traditional Knowledge Docketing System to safeguard indigenous innovations.
Launch of Mission IPR for streamlining and modernizing IPR administration in the state.

Understanding Intellectual Property (IP)

IP refers to creations of the mind—in fields like science, literature, art, and industry.
IP Rights (IPRs) grant creators exclusive legal rights for a defined period, enabling commercialization and protection.
Types of IPR include:
Patents
Trademarks
Copyrights
Industrial Designs
Geographical Indications (GIs)
Layout Designs of Integrated Circuits
Plant Varieties & Farmers’ Rights
Trade Secrets

Global and Territorial Aspects

Patent rights are territorial—an Indian patent is valid only in India.
No universal patent system exists; however, the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) offers a unified procedure for filing patents across 157+ countries, coordinated by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
India and PCT/WIPO:
India joined WIPO in 1975 and PCT in 1998.
WIPO, established in 1967, is a specialized self-funding UN agency headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, with 193 member states.

India’s IPR Ecosystem: Achievements & Challenges

Recent Initiatives
National IPR Policy, 2016: A unified vision document for all forms of IPRs, promoting innovation and strengthening IP administration.
Cell for IPR Promotion and Management (CIPAM): Implements and monitors the National IPR Policy.
National IP Awareness Mission (NIPAM): Spreads IP literacy across educational institutions.
SIPP Scheme: Assists startups in protecting and managing IP assets.
Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): Established by NITI Aayog to nurture grassroots innovation. AIM initiatives include:
Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs)
Atal Incubation Centres (AICs)
Atal New India Challenges
Mentor India Network

Major Challenges

Patent Backlog: Delay in examination and grant processes.
Weak Enforcement: Inadequate mechanisms to combat piracy and counterfeiting.
Low Commercialization: Limited industry-academia collaboration hampers practical application of patents.
Dependence on Foreign Applicants: Reflects low domestic R&D output and investment.
Global Competitiveness Gap: Innovation metrics still lag behind global leaders.

Significance and Way Forward

Kerala’s decision to revise its IPR policy is a progressive step toward creating an innovation-driven knowledge economy. Aligning with the national vision and global best practices will:
Protect traditional and indigenous knowledge, especially in biodiversity-rich regions.
Foster a culture of creativity and entrepreneurship.
Attract global investment and improve India’s innovation ranking.
Ensure inclusive development through IPR outreach in education and grassroots levels.

Conclusion: India’s expanding IPR ecosystem reflects a strategic shift toward knowledge-led economic growth. With robust state-level participation, such as Kerala’s IPR policy revision, India is poised to emerge as a global hub for innovation, creativity, and IP-driven entrepreneurship.

Consider the following statements regarding the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT):

It grants a universal patent that is valid in all member countries.
India is a member of the PCT.
The PCT system is administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer:B

Explanation:

The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) is an international treaty that simplifies the process of filing patents in multiple countries. However, it is important to understand what it does and does not
Statement 1: It grants a universal patent that is valid in all member countries.
This statement is incorrect. The PCT does not grant a single, universal or international patent. Instead, it provides a mechanism to file one international patent application, which can later be pursued in individual member countries. Each country still examines the application according to its own national laws and decides independently whether to grant a patent.
Statement 2: India is a member of the PCT.This statement is correct. India became a member of the PCT in 1998, and Indian inventors or applicants can use the system to file international patent applications.
Statement 3: The PCT system is administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).This statement is correct. The WIPO, based in Geneva, Switzerland, is the United Nations’ specialized agency responsible for the coordination of the PCT system, among other global IP matters.

New Exploration Licensing Policy

Syllabus:Economy

India’s oil and gas sector has witnessed a significant influx of investment, exceeding $36 billion, driven largely by progressive reforms in exploration and licensing policies.
This has led to 177 hydrocarbon discoveries, according to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.

New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP)

Introduced in 1999, the New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP) aimed to attract private and foreign investment into India’s upstream energy sector.
A key feature of NELP was the cost recovery model, allowing companies to first recover their exploration costs before sharing profits with the government.
Over nine bidding rounds conducted between 1999 and 2010, 254 blocks were awarded, resulting in 67 oil and 110 gas discoveries, and drawing $17.6 billion in investments.
Notable successes included the KG-D6 block, a major contributor to India’s natural gas production.

Transition to Revenue Sharing Model

In 2016, India transitioned from the NELP model to the Revenue Sharing Contract (RSC) framework, seeking to simplify the contractual structure and reduce disputes over cost calculations.
Under the RSC model, bidders commit to sharing a pre-determined portion of production with the government, regardless of the cost incurred.
This model aimed to improve transparency, minimize disputes, and attract foreign investors.

Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP)

The Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) was launched in 2018 under the broader framework of the Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP).
It allowed companies the flexibility to select exploration blocks throughout the year, instead of waiting for formal bidding rounds. Despite eight rounds being completed by 2022, the results were underwhelming: only 6 oil and 4 gas discoveries were made from 144 awarded blocks, with exploration investment amounting to just $1.37 billion.

Challenges Faced under NELP

While NELP marked a milestone in India’s energy policy, it faced significant hurdles:
Delays in environmental and regulatory clearances
Disputes over cost recovery, often leading to legal battles
Operational inefficiencies and bureaucratic red tape
These challenges underscored the need for a more efficient and investor-friendly framework.

Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP)
Launched in 2016, HELP replaced the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) regime with the RSC model to address inefficiencies in earlier systems. HELP aimed to:

Simplify contracts and compliance

Encourage investment through uniform licensing
Promote ease of doing business in the hydrocarbon sector
It also integrated OALP, giving companies greater flexibility in choosing blocks for exploration.

Discovered Small Field (DSF) Policy

The Discovered Small Field (DSF) policy, introduced in 2015, focused on monetizing smaller, previously untapped fields. These were largely identified by national oil companies but left undeveloped. Under this policy:
85 contract areas have been awarded
$69 million in exploration investment has been attracted
It provided opportunities for new and smaller players to enter the exploration market

Conclusion

India’s dynamic policy evolution—from NELP to HELP, and through the introduction of RSC, OALP, and DSF—has significantly reshaped its oil and gas landscape.
These reforms have not only boosted investment and discoveries but also reflect India’s strategic intent to reduce import dependence, enhance energy security, and create a more business-friendly environment in the hydrocarbon sector.

Which of the following correctly distinguishes the NELP and RSC regimes in India’s upstream hydrocarbon sector?

NELP used a profit-sharing model with cost recovery, while RSC uses a revenue-sharing model without cost recovery.
RSC was introduced to resolve the delays in environmental clearances under NELP.
RSC model reduces government revenue risk compared to NELP.
NELP offered companies the freedom to choose blocks without bidding rounds, unlike RSC.

Select the correct option:

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 3 and 4 only

Answer: B

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct – NELP allowed companies to recover exploration costs before sharing profits, whereas RSC requires companies to commit a fixed share of production to the government regardless of cost.
Statement 3 is correct – RSC reduces revenue uncertainty for the government, as it is not dependent on audited costs.
Statement 2 is incorrect – RSC was not specifically introduced to address environmental clearance delays (a broader regulatory challenge).
Statement 4 is incorrect – The block selection flexibility was introduced under OALP, not under NELP or RSC directly.

HKH Snow Update Report 2025

Syllabus:Geography

The HKH Snow Update Report 2025, published by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), has revealed a stark decline in snow persistence across the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region.
This decline is particularly pronounced across the Ganga, Indus, and Brahmaputra river basins, raising serious concerns over long-term water security in the region.

What is Snow Persistence?

Snow persistence denotes the duration for which snow remains on the ground following snowfall.
It plays a critical role in the seasonal hydrological cycle, acting as a natural reservoir that gradually releases water during the early summer months—a lifeline for agricultural irrigation, drinking water, and hydropower generation.

Alarming Trends in Snow Cover Decline

According to the report:
The Ganga basin registered its lowest snow persistence in 23 years, with a decline of -24.1%.
The Indus and Brahmaputra basins each recorded a -27.9%
The Tibetan Plateau, a vital water source for many North Indian rivers, saw a sharp fall from +92.4% in 2022 to -29.1% in 2025—highlighting extreme regional climate sensitivity.
These consistent downward trends signal a shift towards persistent below-normal snow conditions, now in their third consecutive year.

Implications for Water Security

The loss of snow cover severely impacts snowmelt-fed river flows, particularly during the critical dry season. This jeopardizes the water supply for nearly 300 million people, with downstream implications for:
Agriculture, especially in north India and Pakistan.
Hydropower production, which depends on consistent river flows.
Domestic water availability, especially in urban centres.
Disaster vulnerability, increasing the risk of drought and water stress.

A Regional Climate Alarm

The rapid decline in snow cover underscores the HKH region’s climate vulnerability. The Tibetan Plateau’s transition from positive to sharply negative snow persistence in just three years exemplifies how fragile these ecosystems have become under changing climatic conditions.

Long-Term Context

While snow persistence has historically shown variability, recent declines are more intense and prolonged. For instance, the Ganga basin experienced a +30.2% increase in 2015, but today’s levels are at a historical low. This stark reversal emphasizes the urgency of climate-resilient planning.

The Way Forward: ICIMOD’s Recommendations

To address these cascading risks, the report advocates:
Integrated water resource management (IWRM) tailored for mountain regions.
Enhanced drought preparedness and climate-resilient infrastructure.
Investment in early warning systems for better disaster response.
Cross-border cooperation on shared river systems to ensure equitable water sharing.
Policy alignment with scientific data for adaptive governance and planning.
The findings of the HKH Snow Update Report 2025 highlight an emerging environmental crisis with far-reaching socio-economic and geopolitical implications. Mitigating its effects will require coordinated, evidence-based actions at both national and regional levels.

With reference to the HKH Snow Update Report 2025, consider the following statements:

The decline in snow persistence across the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region has remained consistent only in the Ganga basin, while the Indus and Brahmaputra basins have shown increasing trends.
The Tibetan Plateau, despite being a major source of North Indian rivers, has shown minimal variation in snow persistence over the past three years.
The term “snow persistence” refers to the period snow remains on the ground and plays a crucial role in seasonal water availability, particularly during pre-monsoon months.
The HKH region has experienced three consecutive years of below-normal snow conditions, posing serious implications for transboundary water management.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 and 4 only
C. 2, 3 and 4 only
D. 1, 2 and 4 only

Answer: B. 3 and 4 only

Explanation:

The statement wrongly claims that only the Ganga basin has shown a consistent decline in snow persistence. According to the 2025 report, all three major river basins—Ganga, Indus, and Brahmaputra—have shown steep and simultaneous declines in snow persistence, with Indus and Brahmaputra both registering -27.9%, making this statement factually incorrect.
Contrary to what this statement suggests, the Tibetan Plateau has shown drastic year-on-year changes in snow persistence. From a positive anomaly of +92.4% in 2022, it dropped to -29.1% in 2025, which is not minimal by any measure. This indicates high climatic sensitivity, making the statement invalid.
The definition is accurate. Snow persistence is indeed the duration snow remains after a snowfall, and it plays a vital role in regulating early summer (pre-monsoon) water supply, particularly in snowmelt-fed river systems.
The report clearly mentions that the HKH region has experienced three consecutive years of below-normal snow conditions, and highlights the severe implications for water security, especially in transboundary river basins, requiring urgent cooperation and management.

Davis Strait Proto-Microcontinent

Syllabus:Geography

Overview:

A recent international geological study led by scientists from the United Kingdom and Sweden has unveiled a previously unknown microcontinental landmass beneath the icy waters of the Davis Strait.
This discovery sheds new light on the tectonic evolution of the North Atlantic region and offers crucial insights into continental drift and plate dynamics.

Location and Composition:

Situated offshore of western Greenland, the Davis Strait proto-micro continent lies submerged between Canada’s Baffin Island and Greenland.
It comprises exceptionally thick continental crust, ranging between 12 to 15 miles (approximately 19 to 24 kilometers).
The presence of such crustal thickness under the seabed suggests an ancient continental origin distinct from typical oceanic formations.

Methodology of Discovery:

The identification of this proto-microcontinent was achieved through the integration of satellite gravity data and seismic imaging techniques.
These methods enabled researchers to determine variations in rock density and reconstruct sub-seafloor geological structures, facilitating the detection of this concealed crustal fragment.

Tectonic History:

The tectonic separation between Greenland and the North American landmass initiated nearly 120 million years ago, with substantial seafloor spreading commencing around 61 million years ago.
This divergence was driven by tectonic forces along the Pre-Ungava Transform Margin, which directed Greenland’s movement toward the northeast.
Approximately 56 million years ago, modifications in tectonic forces led to the emergence of the Davis Strait proto-micro continent.
However, an episode of aborted rifting around 48 million years ago, caused by the reconfiguration of tectonic stresses and the emergence of a new fault system, halted further separation of the North American plate.

Geological Significance of the Davis Strait:The Davis Strait is a critical maritime corridor linking Baffin Bay with the Labrador Sea and forms part of the strategic Northwest Passage.

It extends roughly 650 kilometers (400 miles) in length and spans between 320 to 640 kilometers (200 to 400 miles) in width.
Geologically, the region hosts an array of submarine basins and tectonic ridges, which are relics of the complex tectonic interactions over millions of years.

Broader Implications:

The discovery of the Davis Strait proto-microcontinent contributes significantly to the scientific understanding of North Atlantic plate tectonics.
It provides valuable context for the ancient processes of continental fragmentation, offers insights for future geological and paleoclimatic studies, and may also influence environmental and resource assessments in the Arctic region.

With reference to the recently discovered Davis Strait proto-microcontinent, consider the following statements:

It was formed as a result of recent glacial activity in the Arctic Ocean.
It lies between Canada’s Baffin Island and Greenland.
It comprises unusually thick continental crust, distinct from oceanic crust.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer:B
Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: The microcontinent is a result of ancient tectonic activity, not glacial processes.
Statement 2 is correct: The Davis Strait separates Baffin Island and Greenland.
Statement 3 is correct: It has a thick continental crust (12–15 miles), atypical of oceanic regions.

EVolutionS Programme

Syllabus:Scheme

The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, has launched an ambitious initiative titled ‘Electric Vehicle Solutions led by Startups (EVolutionS)’.
This programme is designed to strengthen India’s electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing ecosystem by promoting innovation-driven startups and reducing dependence on imported components.

Objective and Vision

The primary goal of EVolutionS is to assist Indian startups in transforming innovative EV-related prototypes into commercially viable and market-ready products.
By doing so, the programme seeks to develop a self-reliant and robust domestic supply chain for EVs.
It targets a broad spectrum of the EV ecosystem, encompassing two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, e-buses, and public charging infrastructure.

Support Mechanism and Funding

Under the EVolutionS programme:
Startups with demonstrated potential in indigenous development of EV materials and components will receive financial assistance.
Each selected startup is eligible for up to ₹50 lakh, of which ₹30 lakh will be provided through equity-linked instruments.
The funding aims to help startups progress from Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 3–4 to TRL 6–8, facilitating prototype testing, validation, and pilot demonstrations.

Strategic Significance

India’s EV sector currently relies heavily on imported components, making it vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions. The EVolutionS programme is strategically significant in its attempt to:
Localize production of critical EV components
Enhance technological capabilities of Indian startups
Stimulate domestic innovation and reduce reliance on foreign technology

Collaborative Framework

The programme is implemented in coordination with:
The Ministry of Heavy Industry, and
The Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA)
This collaborative model is designed to bridge the gap between R&D innovations and industry requirements, fostering faster adoption of indigenous EV solutions in the market.

Scope and Component Coverage

The EVolutionS programme encompasses a wide range of components essential for the EV ecosystem, including:
Electric motors, battery management systems, and controllers
Charging infrastructure for public and private use
Sub-systems for e-rickshaws, e-carts, and electric buses
By targeting these critical components, the programme not only enhances infrastructure readiness but also addresses strategic vulnerabilities in India’s path toward sustainable mobility

With reference to the ‘Electric Vehicle Solutions led by Startups (EVolutionS)’ programme recently launched by the Department of Science and Technology, consider the following statements:

The programme provides financial assistance only in the form of outright grants to eligible startups.
It aims to reduce India’s dependence on imports by promoting indigenous development of EV components.
The programme covers only two- and four-wheeled electric vehicles.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 2 and 3 only

Answer:B

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect. Funding under EVolutionS includes ₹30 lakh via equity-linked instruments, not just outright grants.
Statement 2 is correct. The programme’s core objective is to promote indigenous innovation and reduce reliance on imports.
Statement 3 is incorrect. The scope includes two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, e-rickshaws, e-carts, e-buses, and public charging infrastructure.