Microplastics    
India’s Spice Exports – Significance and Challenges    
India-Ukraine Relations    
Namami Gange Programme    
Banni Grassland    
Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC)    
Gaza Strip    
 

1.    Microplastics
News:
•    Researchers have recently developed a plant-based polymer that biodegrades at the microplastic level, offering potential solutions to plastic pollution.
About Microplastics:
•    Definition: Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, less than five millimeters in diameter, resulting from commercial product development and the breakdown of larger plastics.
•    Types:
o    Primary Microplastics: These are intentionally manufactured for use in products like cosmetics and synthetic clothing. They also include microfibers shed from textiles.
o    Secondary Microplastics: These result from the breakdown of larger plastic items, such as water bottles, due to environmental factors like sunlight and ocean waves.
•    Composition: Microplastics consist of carbon and hydrogen atoms bound in polymer chains. They may also contain other chemicals such as phthalates,
 

PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers), and TBBPA (tetrabromobisphenol A).
Environmental Impacts:
•    Persistence: Microplastics do not easily break down into harmless molecules, leading to their accumulation in the environment.
•    Marine Pollution: In the ocean, microplastics can bind with harmful chemicals and are ingested by marine organisms, entering the food chain.
•    Air Pollution: Microplastics contribute to air pollution, appearing in dust and airborne fibrous particles.
•    Water Pollution: Standard water treatment facilities cannot fully remove microplastics, allowing them to persist in water sources.
What are Polymers?
•    Definition: Polymers are materials made of long, repeating chains of molecules. The properties of polymers vary based on the type of molecules and their bonding structure.
•    Types of Polymers:
o    Synthetic Polymers: Often referred to as plastics, these include materials like rubber and polyester that can stretch, or epoxies and glass that are hard and tough.



o    Natural Polymers: Examples include rubber and wood, which consist of natural compounds like isoprene.
Prelims Question:
Question: With reference to microplastics, consider the following statements:
1.    Primary microplastics are those that are intentionally manufactured for use in products.
2.    Secondary microplastics are the result of environmental degradation of larger plastic items.
3.     Microplastics can contribute to both water and air pollution.
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: D) 1, 2, and 3
Mains Question:
Question: Discuss the environmental impacts of microplastics and the challenges associated with their persistence in the ecosystem. How can innovations in biodegradable polymers help mitigate these impacts?

2.    India’s Spice Exports – Significance and Challenges
Context:
•    The Economic think tank Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has raised concerns over the ongoing controversy involving MDH and Everest spice companies, which could threaten over half of India’s spice exports. The report stresses the need for India to urgently address the quality issues in its spice exports to preserve its global reputation.
What are Spices? What is the Status of India’s Spice Exports?
Spices:
•    Spices are dried parts of plants, including seeds, roots, bark, and fruits. They are

valued for their flavors, aromas, preservative qualities, and ability to mask undesirable odors.
Spice Sector in India:
•    India is the world’s largest producer, consumer, and exporter of spices.
•    52 spices are under the purview of the Spices Board (Ministry of Commerce and Industry), which was established by the Spices Board Act, 1986.
India’s Spice Export Data 2023-24:
•    Spices contribute 41% of the total export earnings from all horticulture crops.
•    Spice exports rank fourth among agricultural commodities, following marine products, non-basmati rice, and basmati rice.
•    Total Value of exports: USD 4.25 billion.
•    India’s Share in Global Spice Exports: 12% of the global spice trade, which totals USD 35 billion. China is the top exporter with USD 8 billion in exports in 2023.
Recent Issues with India’s Spice Exports
1.    Detection of Carcinogenic Chemicals:
o    Popular brands like MDH and Everest have been banned in Hong Kong and Singapore due to the detection of the carcinogenic chemical ethylene oxide in their products.
2.    Salmonella Contamination:
o    There have been reports of salmonella contamination in Indian spices, a frequent bacterial cause of foodborne illness.
3.    Contaminated Equipment:
o    The FDA inspection of MDH’s manufacturing plant revealed inadequate sanitary facilities and contamination of equipment and utensils.
4.    Quality Rejections:
o    Indian spices have faced constant rejection, particularly by the EU, over failure to meet quality standards.
5.    Trade Wars:



o    The global trade wars aim to lower the prices of spices, affecting India’s export earnings, which had doubled in the past four to five years.
6.    Inadequate Infrastructure and Logistics:
o    Challenges in infrastructure and logistics hinder the transportation of spices from production centers to export ports.
Significance of Spice Exports from India
1.    Economic Contribution:
o     Spice exports significantly contribute to India’s foreign
exchange earnings, improving the

o    The Spices Board and FSSAI should increase the sampling size of spice units for inspection.
3.    Market Diversification:
o    Indian spice exports should be diversified into emerging markets to reduce dependence on traditional markets like the US, EU, and Middle East.
4.    Improvement of Infrastructure:
o    Enhancing storage facilities, transportation networks, and port infrastructure is necessary to reduce transit times and maintain the freshness of Indian spices.

balance of trade. For example,        

India earned USD 4.25 billion
through spice exports.
2.    Employment Generation:
o    The labor-intensive spice industry provides employment opportunities, especially in rural areas, aiding poverty alleviation and rural development.
3.    Diversification of Agriculture:
o    Spice cultivation offers an alternative income source for farmers and helps diversify agricultural production, contributing 41% to India’s horticultural export earnings.
4.    Cultural Heritage Promotion:
o    Spices are integral to India’s rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions, promoting Indian culture globally and enhancing the country’s soft power.
Way Forward
1.    Swift Investigation:
o    Swift investigations and publication of findings are essential to re-establish global trust in Indian spices. Erring firms should face immediate repercussions.
2.    Increased Sampling Size:

Prelims Question:
Question: With reference to India’s spice exports, consider the following statements:
1.    India is the world’s largest producer and exporter of spices.
2.    The Spices Board of India was established under the Ministry of Agriculture.
3.    India’s spice exports contribute significantly to the country's horticultural export earnings.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    1 and 3 only
C)    2 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 1 and 3 only
Mains Question:
Question: Analyze the challenges facing India’s spice export industry in the context of recent controversies. Suggest measures to enhance the quality and global competitiveness of Indian spices.

3.    India-Ukraine Relations
Diplomatic Relations:
•    Recognition and Establishment: India recognized the Republic of Ukraine as a sovereign independent country in



December 1991, following the breakup of the Soviet Union.
•    Embassies: The Embassy of India in Kyiv was established in May 1992, and Ukraine opened its mission in New Delhi in February 1993.
•    Cooperation Areas: India and Ukraine share warm and friendly relations, cooperating in areas such as education, mutual legal assistance, and outer space cooperation.
Defence Relations:
•     Military Technology: Ukraine has been a significant source of military technology and equipment for India.
•    R-27 Missiles: Ukraine manufactures the R-27 air-to-air missiles, which are used by the Indian Air Force (IAF) on its SU-30MKI fighters.
•    Emerging Cooperation: India is also starting to supply its weapons to Ukraine, enhancing defence cooperation between the two countries.
Trade:
•    Major Export Destination: India is
Ukraine’s largest export destination in the Asia-Pacific region and the fifth largest overall export destination.
•    Pharmaceuticals: Pharmaceuticals account for the majority of Indian exports to Ukraine.
Cultural Relations:
•    Cultural Associations: Over 30 Ukrainian cultural associations/groups across the country are engaged in promoting Indian dances and culture.
•    Indian Students: Approximately 18,000 Indian students are studying in Ukraine, mainly in the field of medicine.
•    Indian Professionals: Indian business professionals in Ukraine predominantly work in fields such as pharmaceuticals, IT, engineering, medicine, and education.
Challenges:
•    Russia-Ukraine Conflict: The conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which escalated when Moscow annexed Crimea

in 2014, poses a potential dilemma for India.
•    Russian Objections: Russia has begun objecting to its customers dealing with Ukraine, complicating India's defense collaborations with Ukraine.
•    IAF Collaboration: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is currently collaborating with Ukraine to overhaul its fleet of AN-32s, which could face issues due to the Russia- Ukraine rift.

Prelims Question:
Question: With reference to India-Ukraine relations, consider the following statements:
1.    India recognized Ukraine as a sovereign country immediately after the breakup of the Soviet Union.
2.    Ukraine is India's largest export destination in the Asia-Pacific region.
3.    Ukraine manufactures the R-27 air-to-air missiles used by the Indian Navy.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 2 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: C) 1 and 2 only
Mains Question:
Question: Analyze the challenges faced by India in maintaining a balanced diplomatic relationship with both Russia and Ukraine, considering their ongoing conflict. How does this impact India's defense and trade relations with these countries?

4.    Namami Gange Programme
Overview:
•    Namami Gange Programme is an Integrated Conservation Mission approved as a ‘Flagship Programme’ by the Union Government in June 2014.
•    The programme's twin objectives are the abatement of pollution and the conservation and rejuvenation of the National River Ganga.

•     Operated under the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti.
•    Implemented by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG).
National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG):
•    NMCG is the implementation wing of the National Ganga Council (established in 2016, replacing the National Ganga River Basin Authority - NGRBA).
•     The mission is a registered society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, originally formed by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in 2011.
•    NMCG is now under the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation.
Funding and Projects:
•    The programme has a Rs. 20,000-crore, centrally-funded, non-lapsable corpus.
•    Nearly 288 projects are being implemented under this programme.
Main Pillars of the Programme:
•    Sewage Treatment Infrastructure
•    River-Front Development
•    River-Surface Cleaning
•    Biodiversity Preservation
•    Afforestation
•    Public Awareness
•    Industrial Effluent Monitoring
•    Ganga Gram (holistic development of villages on the Ganga)
Ganga Guardians (Ganga Praharis):
•    Ganga Praharis are self-motivated, trained volunteers from local communities working for the biodiversity conservation and cleanliness of the Ganga River.
•    Objectives:
o    Creating awareness about the benefits of a clean and vibrant Ganga.
o    Linking local communities and their livelihoods with efforts to clean and preserve the Ganga.

o    Creating a convergence point at the grassroots level for these efforts.
Wildlife Institute of India (WII):
•    WII is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
•    Established in 1982 and based in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
•    WII offers training programs, academic courses, and advisory services in wildlife research and management.
Ganga River System:
•    The headwaters of the Ganga, called the ‘Bhagirathi’, are fed by the Gangotri Glacier.
•    The Bhagirathi is joined by the Alaknanda
at Devprayag in Uttarakhand.
•    At Haridwar, the Ganga emerges from the mountains onto the plains.
•    The Ganga is joined by several major tributaries from the Himalayas, including the Yamuna, Ghaghara, Gandak, and Kosi.

Prelims Question:
Question: Consider the following statements about the Namami Gange Programme:
1.    The programme is operated under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
2.    It includes the development of sewage treatment infrastructure as one of its main pillars.
3.    The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) is the implementing body for the programme.
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) 2 and 3 only
Mains Question:
Question: Discuss the significance of the Namami Gange Programme in the context of

environmental conservation and the challenges it faces in achieving its objectives. How does the programme integrate local communities in its implementation?

5.    Banni Grassland
Overview:
•     The Gujarat government recently announced that the central government has approved the establishment of a cheetah breeding and conservation centre in the Banni Grassland.
About Banni Grassland:
•    Location: Situated along the northern border of Kachchh district in Gujarat.
•    Area: It is one of the largest grasslands in the Indian subcontinent, covering an area of over 2500 sq. km.
•    Environmental Impact: Various factors have shaped Banni Grassland, including:
o    Damming of rivers
o    Spread of the invasive Prosopis juliflora tree
o    Variations in the composition and density of livestock grazing the grasslands over centuries.
Cultural Significance:
•    Population: The Banni Grassland is home to 22 ethnic groups, primarily pastoralists, spread across 48 settlements in 19 Panchayats, with a population of nearly 40,000 people.
Biodiversity:
•    Flora:
o    The vegetation primarily consists of Prosopis Juliflora, Cressa critica, Cyperus spp, Sporobolus, Dichanthium, and Aristida.
•    Fauna:
o    Mammals: Nilgai, Chinkara, Blackbuck, Wild Boar, Golden Jackal, Indian Hare, Indian Wolf, Caracal, Asiatic Wildcat, and Desert Fox.

o    The region is a breeding ground for the Banni buffalo and the Kankrej cow.
•    Avifauna: The area hosts 275 bird species
and 37 grass species.
Protected Areas:
•    Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary: Spans an area of 380 sq. km.
•    Chhari Dhand Conservation Reserve: Recently notified, covering an area of 227 sq. km.
Prelims Question:
Question: Which of the following statements about Banni Grassland is/are correct?
1.    It is one of the smallest grasslands in the Indian subcontinent.
2.    The Banni Grassland is home to the Banni buffalo, a domesticated animal.
3.    The invasive Prosopis juliflora tree has significantly impacted the vegetation of the Banni Grassland.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 2 and 3 only
Mains Question:
Question: Discuss the ecological and socio- cultural significance of the Banni Grassland in Gujarat. How do factors like invasive species and livestock grazing influence the biodiversity of this region?

6.    Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC)
Overview:
•    Established: KVIC is a statutory body formed under the Khadi and Village Industries Commission Act of 1956.
•     Apex Body: It operates under the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and is responsible for promoting and developing Khadi and village industries in India.

•    Role: KVIC is tasked with the planning, promotion, organization, and implementation of programs for the development of Khadi and village industries in rural areas, often in coordination with other rural development agencies.
Functions of KVIC:
•    Strategic Reserve: Build a strategic reserve of raw materials and implements for supply to producers.
•     Common Service Facilities: Create common service facilities for processing raw materials into semi-finished goods and provide facilities for marketing KVI products.
•    Sales and Marketing: Enhance the sale and marketing of Khadi and other products from village industries or handicrafts.
•    Research Promotion: Encourage and promote research in production techniques and equipment used in Khadi and Village Industries sectors.
•    Financial Assistance: Provide financial assistance to institutions and individuals for developing and guiding Khadi and Village industries, including the supply of designs, prototypes, and other technical information.
•    Product Assurance: Ensure the genuineness of products and set standards for the quality of products from Khadi and Village Industries.
•    State-Level Implementation: Khadi & Village Industries Boards at the state level are established to effectively implement KVIC schemes in their respective states.
Key Schemes under KVIC:
•    Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP): Focuses on generating employment opportunities in rural and urban areas through the establishment of micro-enterprises.
•    Market Promotion Development Assistance (MPDA): Supports marketing

efforts for Khadi and Village Industries products.
•    Interest Subsidy Eligibility Certificate (ISEC): Provides financial support to Khadi institutions by subsidizing interest on working capital loans.
•    Workshed Scheme for Khadi Artisans: Aims to provide better work conditions to Khadi artisans by constructing worksheds.
•    Strengthening Infrastructure: Enhances the infrastructure of existing weak Khadi institutions and assists in marketing infrastructure.
•    Khadi Reform and Development Programme (KRDP): A comprehensive reform program aimed at revitalizing the Khadi sector.
•    Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI): Promotes the regeneration of traditional industries through cluster development.
•    Honey Mission: Focuses on promoting beekeeping to provide sustainable income to rural and tribal populations.
Prelims Question:
Question: Which of the following schemes is directly associated with the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC)?
1.    PMEGP
2.    SFURTI
3.    Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
4.    Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1, 2, and 3 only
D)    1, 3, and 4 only
Answer: A) 1 and 2 only
Mains Question:
Question: Discuss the role of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) in promoting rural development and employment in India. How do the various schemes under KVIC contribute to the socio-economic upliftment of rural areas?




7.     Gaza Strip
Context:
The recent escalation of conflict between Israel and Hamas militants has thrust the Gaza Strip into the global spotlight. Amidst this turmoil, Israel's defense minister declared a "complete siege" of the Gaza Strip, cutting off essential resources. This move has highlighted the long- standing and contentious issue of the Gaza blockade, which has been in place since 2007. Significant Aspects Regarding the Gaza Strip Geographical Location:
•     The Gaza Strip is situated in the eastern Mediterranean basin, sharing borders with Egypt in the southwest and Israel to the north and east.
•    To the west, it is bounded by the
Mediterranean Sea.
•    It is one of the most densely populated areas globally, with over 2 million residents living in a small area.
Historical Significance:
•    The Six-Day War of 1967 resulted in Israel capturing Gaza from Egypt and initiating its military occupation of the region.
•    Israel withdrew its settlements from Gaza in 2005, but this period also saw intermittent blockades on the movement of people and goods.
•    In 2007, after Hamas assumed power in Gaza, Israel and Egypt enforced a permanent blockade, justifying it as necessary for security.
•    The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that the blockade has severely impacted Gaza's economy, leading to high unemployment, food insecurity, and aid dependency.
Related Border Areas:
•    Gaza is encircled by walls on three sides, with its western border controlled by Israel, restricting access by sea.
•    Three functional border crossings exist: Karem Abu Salem Crossing and Erez Crossing controlled by Israel, and Rafah Crossing controlled by Egypt.

•    These crossings have been sealed in response to recent hostilities.
Associated Places in Spotlight:
•    The current conflict has brought attention to key areas around the Gaza Strip, including the border crossings and the restricted maritime access controlled by Israel.

India Unveils Indigenous Kamikaze Drones with 1,000 Km Range
Overview:
•    As India approaches its 78th Independence Day, the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) has unveiled indigenous Kamikaze drones, known for their potent "do-and-die" capabilities. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) feature home-built engines, enabling them to cover a range of up to 1,000 kilometers.
Key Features:
•    Loitering Munitions: These drones can loiter in a designated area for extended periods, carry explosives, and engage targets upon command from a remote human controller. They can be deployed in swarms to overwhelm enemy defenses and radars.
•    Historical Context: The concept of Kamikaze missions dates back to World War II, where Japanese pilots carried out suicide missions by ramming their planes into Allied ships and aircraft.
•    Design and Capabilities:
o    Dimensions: Approximately 2.8 meters in length with a wingspan of 3.5 meters.
o    Weight: About 120 kg, with a payload capacity of 25 kg of explosives.
o    Engine: Powered by a 30- horsepower Wankel Engine developed by NAL, allowing for continuous flight over 1,000 kilometers at a maximum speed of 180 km/h.

o     Endurance: Capable of hovering in the area of interest for up to nine hours.
o    Navigation: Can operate in GPS- denied environments using India's NAViC system for accurate targeting.
Strategic Importance:
•     These Kamikaze drones are poised to become a game-changing asset in modern warfare, as demonstrated by their extensive use in conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas conflict. The ability to deploy multiple drones in a swarm makes them a formidable tool for targeting enemy installations and infrastructure.
•    Director's Insight: Dr. Abhay Pashilkar, Director of NAL, emphasizes the significance of this indigenous development, highlighting its potential as a 21st-century war machine.
Technological Advancements:
•    Autonomy and Precision: The Indian Kamikaze drones are designed to function effectively even in challenging environments where GPS signals may be compromised, ensuring precision in targeting.
•    Endurance and Range: With a loitering capability of nine hours and a 1,000 km range, these drones provide strategic flexibility in various combat scenarios.
These advancements represent a significant leap in India's defense capabilities, aligning with its broader goals of indigenization and self-reliance in defense technology.