Lateral Entry in Civil Services    
Nobel Laureates Transitioned to National Leaders    
India's Ethanol Revolution    
Ground-Level Ozone Pollution in India    
Neelakurinji Declared as a Threatened Species    
Somanathan Appointed as India's New Cabinet Secretary    
PM-PRANAM Scheme    
 

1.    Lateral Entry in Civil Services
Context:
•    The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has issued a notification for recruiting 45 joint secretaries, directors, and deputy secretaries through the lateral entry scheme.
•    Opposition parties have criticized the move, claiming it undermines reservation rights for Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
Lateral Entry Scheme Overview:
•    Lateral entry involves appointing individuals from outside the government directly to mid-level and senior positions.
•    Aims to infuse domain-specific expertise
and fresh perspectives into governance.
•    Appointments are on a contract basis for 3 years, extendable up to 5 years.
Historical Background:
•    The concept was first introduced during the 2004-09 period and endorsed by the Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) (2005).
•    In 2017, NITI Aayog recommended lateral entry to bring in specialized knowledge and expertise.
Eligibility Criteria:
 

•    Open to individuals with domain expertise and a proven track record in relevant fields, including private sector, state governments, autonomous bodies, and public sector undertakings.
•    Selection focuses on professional accomplishment and subject matter expertise.
Reservation Policy:
•    Lateral entry positions are considered “Single Post”, hence the reservation policy does not apply.
•    The exclusion from reservation has raised concerns, particularly regarding the bypassing of opportunities for SC, ST, OBC, and EWS candidates.
Recruitments So Far:
•    Since 2018, 63 individuals have been appointed through lateral entry, with 57 still serving in central government positions as of August 2023.
ARC Recommendations on Lateral Entry:
•    First ARC (1966): Focused on reforming civil services without specifically advocating for lateral entry.
•    Second ARC (2005): Strongly recommended lateral entry to bring in specialized knowledge and enhance the effectiveness of the Indian administrative system.
Advantages of Lateral Entry:

•    Specialized Skills: Brings in experts with skills in areas like technology, management, and finance, filling knowledge gaps in the bureaucracy.
•    Innovation: Injects fresh ideas and experiences from the private sector, NGOs, and other organizations, aiding in reforms and improved governance.
•    Addressing Shortages: Helps fill the

3. Lateral entry appointees are selected solely from the private sector.
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: A) 1 and 2 only

shortage of IAS officers, addressing the        

gap in the availability of senior officials.
Criticisms:
•    Short Tenure: The 3-year tenure may not be enough for entrants to fully acclimate to government systems and make significant contributions.
•    Objectivity Concerns: Risks to neutrality and impartiality, particularly if entrants have prior ties to private entities or interest groups.
•    Impact on Morale: The rise of lateral entrants may create a divide, potentially demoralizing permanent civil servants.
Way Forward:
•    Ensure Transparency: Implement a transparent, merit-based selection process that focuses on relevant expertise and avoids perceptions of favoritism.
•    Training Programs: Develop intensive training for lateral entrants to help them understand government operations.
•    Learn from the UK: The UK Civil Service Fast Stream program recruits individuals with specialized skills, offering a model for India to adapt.

Prelims Question:
Q. With reference to the Lateral Entry Scheme in Indian Civil Services, consider the following statements:
1.    Lateral entry positions are excluded from the reservation system because they are considered “Single Posts.”
2.    The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) recommended lateral entry to bring specialized knowledge into the civil services.

Mains Question:
Q. Critically analyze the Lateral Entry Scheme in Indian Civil Services. Discuss its merits and demerits, and suggest measures to address the concerns associated with it. (15 Marks, 250 Words)

2.    Nobel Laureates Transitioned to National Leaders
Context:
•    Muhammad Yunus, Nobel Peace Prize laureate of 2006, is set to lead Bangladesh's interim government. His role has reignited interest in Nobel laureates who have transitioned into national leadership.
Muhammad Yunus:
•    Known for his work in microfinance and poverty alleviation, Yunus's expertise may influence the interim government's focus on economic development and poverty reduction.
Other Nobel Laureates Who Led Their Countries
•    Lester B. Pearson
o    Position: Prime Minister of Canada (1963-1968)
o    Contributions: Introduced a national pension plan, family assistance programs, and laid the groundwork for universal healthcare in Canada.
o    Nobel Peace Prize (1957): Awarded for resolving the Suez Crisis and initiating the UN's first large-scale peacekeeping force.
•    Lech Wałęsa


o    Position: President of Poland (1990-1995)
o    Contributions: Founded the Solidarity trade union, which ended communist rule in Poland.
o    Nobel Peace Prize (1983): Awarded for his non-violent struggle for free trade unions and human rights in Poland.
•    Aung San Suu Kyi
o    Position: State Counsellor of Myanmar (2016-2021)
o    Contributions: Led Myanmar’s transition from military rule to partial democracy, though her tenure was controversial.
o    Nobel Peace Prize (1991): Awarded for her non-violent struggle for democracy and human rights in Myanmar.
•    Nelson Mandela
o    Position: First Black President of South Africa (1994-1999)
o    Contributions: Played a pivotal role in ending the apartheid system and establishing a democratic South Africa.
o    Nobel Peace Prize (1993): Shared with Frederik Willem de Klerk for the peaceful termination of apartheid.
•    José Ramos-Horta
o    Position: President of East Timor (current since 2022)
o    Contributions: Leader of the resistance that led to East Timor's independence from Indonesia.
o    Nobel Peace Prize (1996): Awarded for advocating a peaceful resolution to the conflict in East Timor.
Notable Mentions:
•    Shimon Peres, Jimmy Carter, Barack Obama, Winston Churchill, and Abiy Ahmed are among other leaders who received the Nobel Prize during or after their tenure.

Significance of Nobel Laureates in Leadership Roles
•    Symbol of Hope: Their global recognition brings international attention and credibility to their leadership.
•    Advocacy for Peace and Justice: Nobel laureates are often associated with peace, democracy, and human rights, setting a moral precedent for governance.
•    Inspiration for Future Leaders: Their journeys inspire emerging leaders to pursue significant social and political change.
Caveat:
Not all Nobel laureates have successfully translated their recognition into effective governance, as seen in the challenges faced by Ethiopia's Abiy Ahmed and Myanmar's Aung San Suu Kyi.

Prelims Question:
Q. With reference to Nobel laureates who became national leaders, consider the following pairs:
1.    Lester B. Pearson - Introduced universal healthcare in Canada
2.    Lech Wałęsa - Founder of the African National Congress
3.    Nelson Mandela - First Black President of South Africa
4.    José Ramos-Horta - Led East Timor's independence movement
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
A)    1, 3, and 4 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 4 only
D)    1, 2, and 4 only
Answer: A) 1, 3, and 4 only

Mains Question:
Q. Discuss the role of Nobel laureates in shaping national leadership. How effective have they been in translating their global recognition into governance, and what challenges have they faced? (15 Marks, 250 Words)

3.    India's Ethanol Revolution
Ethanol Overview
•    Ethanol: A clear, colorless, and flammable organic compound with a characteristic odor.
•    Production:
o    Fermentation: Produced through fermentation of sugars by yeast, commonly used in alcoholic beverages.
o    Chemical Synthesis: Can also be synthesized via hydration of ethylene.
Uses of Ethanol
•    Beverages: Found in alcoholic drinks like beer, wine, and spirits.
•    Fuel: Used as a biofuel and often blended with gasoline to create ethanol-blended fuels.
•    Industrial Solvent: Employed in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals, perfumes, and other products due to its solvent properties.
•    Medical and Laboratory: Functions as an antiseptic, disinfectant, and preservative.
•    Chemical Feedstock: Acts as a raw material in the production of various chemicals.
Ethanol Blending Program (EBP)
•    Objective:
o    Promote the use of ethanol as a renewable, environment-friendly fuel.
o    Reduce fuel imports, conserve foreign exchange, and enhance value addition in the sugar industry.
•    Achievements:
o    10% Ethanol Blending: Target set for 2021-22 has been achieved.
o    E20 Petrol: Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have begun selling petrol with 20% ethanol content.
o    National Policy on Biofuels (2018): Aims for 20% blending of ethanol in petrol by 2025-26.

•    Production Sources: Primarily from sugar industry by-products like molasses, but also from sugarcane juice, sugar syrup, and damaged food grains.
•    Government Initiatives:
o    Fixing remunerative prices for ethanol.
o    Simplifying procurement procedures.
o    Waiving excise duty.
o    Extending financial assistance.
Significance of Ethanol Blending
•    Reducing Fossil Fuel Dependence: Helps India decrease its oil imports and enhance energy self-reliance.
•    Environmental Protection: Ethanol burns cleaner than gasoline, reducing harmful emissions.
o    Study by Indian Institute of Science: Blending ethanol with petrol can reduce carbon monoxide emissions by 30-50% and hydrocarbon emissions by 20%.
•    Supporting Farmers: Creates new demand for crops like sugarcane and corn, boosting rural incomes.
•    Enhancing Energy Security: Domestic ethanol production reduces dependence on foreign energy sources.
•    Economic Benefits: Stimulates growth in the ethanol industry, creating jobs, investments, and innovations.
o    Financial Impact: Ethanol blending can save India USD 4 billion annually (Rs. 30,000 crore).
Limitations of Ethanol Blending
•    Feedstock Availability and Cost: Large amounts of biomass (sugarcane, corn, lignocellulosic materials) are required, potentially competing with food and feed uses.
•    Conflict with Food Security:
o    Corn: Direct use in ethanol production can conflict with its role as food or livestock feed.

o    Sugarcane: Ethanol production from molasses (B-heavy/C-heavy) involves minimal trade-offs with sugar output, but still affects food resources.
•    Conversion Efficiency and Yield: Ethanol production processes (pretreatment, hydrolysis, fermentation, distillation) vary in efficiency and yield, affecting economic viability.
o    Lignocellulosic Biomass: Requires complex pretreatment and hydrolysis, impacting overall efficiency.
•    Infrastructure and Distribution: Ethanol's corrosive and hygroscopic nature demands specialized infrastructure, increasing costs and logistical challenges.
•    Vehicle Compatibility and Performance: Vehicles may require modifications to run on ethanol-blended fuels, and ethanol’s lower energy density results in higher transportation and storage costs.

Prelims Question:
Q. With reference to the Ethanol Blending Program (EBP) in India, consider the following statements:
1.    The National Policy on Biofuels targets 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025- 26.
2.    Ethanol blending reduces carbon monoxide emissions by up to 50%.
3.    Ethanol can only be produced from sugarcane molasses in India.
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: A) 1 and 2 only

be addressed to maximize its benefits for energy security and environmental protection? (15 Marks, 250 Words)

4.    Ground-Level Ozone Pollution in India
The News:
•    A recent study by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) has highlighted the alarming levels of ground-level ozone (O3) in major cities across India.
•    The findings raise concerns about public health, especially for vulnerable populations such as those with respiratory issues.
Understanding Ground-Level Ozone:
•    About:
o    Ground-level ozone, also known as tropospheric ozone, is a secondary pollutant.
o    It is formed when nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from vehicles, industries, and power plants react in the presence of sunlight.
o    It is a colorless gas that forms just above the Earth's surface.
o    Unlike the beneficial ozone layer in the stratosphere, which protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, ground-level ozone is often referred to as "bad ozone" due to its harmful effects.
o    Rising temperatures, especially during heatwaves, exacerbate ground-level ozone formation, leading to poor air quality in cities like New Delhi when ozone levels exceed permissible limits.
 

Mains Question:
Q. Discuss the potential and limitations of
ethanol blending in India’s fuel mix. How can the challenges associated with ethanol production
 

Impact of Ground-Level Ozone:
•    Health Impact:
o    A significant rise in ozone- attributable deaths has been observed globally, with South Asia, including India, showing the highest increase.
o    Projections suggest that by 2050, more than a million deaths in India could be linked to ozone exposure if emissions of its precursor gases are not controlled.
•    Agricultural Impact:
o    Ground-level ozone is detrimental to crop health, leading to reduced yields and seed quality.
o    Essential crops like wheat and rice, which are staples in India, are particularly vulnerable to ozone pollution, posing a threat to food security.
Concerns for India:
•    Air Quality:
o    India is home to 10 of the world's 15 most polluted cities, with air quality far exceeding World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.
o    Poor air quality, rising temperatures, and frequent heat waves make India particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of ground-level ozone.
•    Public Health Risk:

o    The growing and ageing population in India is increasingly at risk from the health impacts of ozone pollution.
o    The public health burden is expected to rise as more people are exposed to this pollutant.
Challenges in Reducing Ground-Level Ozone:
•    Complexity of Reduction:
o    Unlike other air pollutants, ground-level ozone is part of a cyclical chemical reaction. Reducing precursor gases (NOx and VOCs) does not necessarily reduce ozone levels.
o    Ozone can linger in the atmosphere, leading to prolonged

exposure if conditions are not carefully managed.
•    Mitigation Strategies:
o    Expanding air quality monitoring and implementing alerts, like those in Delhi, can help mitigate ozone pollution by informing the public and industries when to take preventive actions.

Prelims Question:
Q. With reference to ground-level ozone pollution, consider the following statements:

1.    Ground-level ozone is primarily formed by the direct emission of ozone from vehicles and industries.
2.    Rising temperatures and heatwaves can worsen ground-level ozone formation.
3.    Ground-level ozone is beneficial as it protects the Earth from harmful UV radiation.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 3 only
B)    2 only
C)    1 and 2 only
D)    2 and 3 only Answer: B) 2 only

Mains Question:
Q. Discuss the impact of ground-level ozone on public health and agriculture in India. What challenges exist in mitigating this pollutant, and how can India effectively address these challenges? (15 Marks, 250 Words)

5.    Neelakurinji Declared as a Threatened Species
The News:
•    Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana), a flowering shrub known for its once-in-12- years blooming cycle, is now classified as Vulnerable under Criteria A2c on the IUCN Red List.
About Neelakurinji:
•    Scientific Classification:
o    Neelakurinji is an endemic shrub reaching up to three meters in height.
o    Found exclusively in the high- altitude shola grassland ecosystems of southwest India, at elevations of 1,340–2,600 meters.
o    The plant's scientific name, Strobilanthes kunthiana, is derived from the Kunthi River in Kerala's Silent Valley National Park.
•    Unique Blooming Cycle:

o    Neelakurinji is semelparous, meaning it reproduces only once in its lifetime.
o    It is renowned for its showy, synchronous blooming every 12 years, creating a spectacular purplish-blue landscape across the mountain grasslands.
o    These blooms are a significant ecological event, and the species is popularly known as Neelakurinji (Blue Strobilanthes) blooms.
•    Geographical Distribution:
o    The species has 34 subpopulations across 14 ecoregions in the high- altitude mountain ranges of southwest India.
o    33 subpopulations are located in the Western Ghats, with one in the Eastern Ghats (Yercaud, Shevaroy Hills).
o    The Nilgiris in Tamil Nadu hold the majority of these subpopulations, followed by Munnar, Palani- Kodaikanal, and Anamalai mountains.
Main Threats to Neelakurinji:
•    Habitat Loss:
o    Tea and softwood plantations, urbanization, and other forms of land use are encroaching on the Neelakurinji's natural habitat.
•    Invasive Species:
o    The introduction of non-native species has disrupted the delicate balance of the ecosystems where Neelakurinji thrives.
•    Climate Change:
o    Changing climate patterns are affecting the blooming cycle and overall health of the Neelakurinji populations.
•    Habitat Degradation:
o    Approximately 40% of its habitat has already been lost, making conservation efforts increasingly urgent.

Prelims Question:
Q. With reference to Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana), consider the following statements:
1.    Neelakurinji blooms every 12 years and is found exclusively in the Eastern Ghats.
2.    It is classified as Vulnerable under the IUCN Red List due to significant habitat loss.
3.    The scientific name of Neelakurinji is derived from the Kunthi River in Kerala's Silent Valley National Park.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 3 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 2 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 2 and 3 only

Mains Question:
Q. Discuss the ecological and cultural significance of Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana) in the Western Ghats. What are the major threats to its survival, and what conservation measures can be taken to protect this unique species? (15 Marks, 250 Words)

6.    Somanathan Appointed as India's New Cabinet Secretary
The News:
•    T.V. Somanathan has been appointed as the new Cabinet Secretary of India, succeeding Rajiv Gauba.
About T.V. Somanathan:
•    Previous Role:
o    Somanathan served as the Finance Secretary, where he was recognized for his prudent management of finances.
o    He played a pivotal role in the implementation of key initiatives such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes, PM Garib Kalyan, and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Role and Significance of the Cabinet Secretary:

•    Highest-Ranking Civil Servant:
o    The Cabinet Secretary is the top civil servant in the Government of India and acts as the ex-officio chairman of the Civil Services Board.
o    The position is crucial for ensuring the smooth functioning of the government, providing secretarial support to the Cabinet, and coordinating inter-ministerial activities.
•    Direct Accountability:
o    The Cabinet Secretary is directly accountable to the Prime Minister of India.
•    Fixed Term and Extension:
o    The appointment is for a fixed term of two years. However, the tenure can be extended up to four years, with a possible additional extension of up to three months as per the amended All India Services (Death-Cum-Retirement- Benefits) Rules, 1958.
•    Responsibilities:
o    The Cabinet Secretary facilitates government operations, ensures coordination among various ministries, and plays a key role in resolving conflicts through committees.
•    Position in Order of Precedence:

o    The Cabinet Secretary holds the eleventh rank in the Indian order of precedence.

Prelims Question:
Q. With reference to the role of the Cabinet Secretary in India, consider the following statements:
1.    The Cabinet Secretary is the highest- ranking civil servant in the Government of India.
2.    The tenure of the Cabinet Secretary is fixed for four years without any possibility of extension.
3.    The Cabinet Secretary is directly accountable to the President of India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 only
B)    1 and 2 only
C)    2 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3 Answer: A) 1 only

Mains Question:
Q. Discuss the significance of the role of the Cabinet Secretary in the Government of India. How does this position contribute to the effective functioning of the Indian administrative system? (15 Marks, 250 Words)

7.    PM-PRANAM Scheme
About:
•    PM-PRANAM stands for PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment, and Amelioration of Mother Earth.
•    Announced in the 2023-24 Budget, the scheme aims to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers by incentivizing states to adopt alternative fertilizers.
Objective:
•    Encourage the balanced use of fertilizers alongside biofertilizers and organic fertilizers.
 

•    Reduce the subsidy burden on chemical fertilizers, which was approximately Rs
2.25 lakh crores in 2022-2023.
Key Features of the Scheme:
1.    Financing:
o    Funded by the savings from existing fertilizer subsidies under the Department of Fertilizers, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers.
o    No separate budget will be allocated for PM-PRANAM.
2.    Subsidy Savings and Grants:
o    The Centre will provide 50% of the subsidy savings to states as a grant.
o    70% of the grant can be used to create assets related to the technological adoption of alternative fertilizers and production units.
o    The remaining 30% can be used to reward and encourage farmers, panchayats, and other stakeholders involved in fertilizer reduction and awareness generation.
3.    Calculation of Fertilizer Reduction:
o    The reduction in urea consumption by a state will be compared to its average consumption of urea over the previous three years.

o    This calculation will determine eligibility for subsidy savings and grants.
4.    Promotion of Sustainable Agriculture:
o    By encouraging the use of biofertilizers and organic fertilizers, the scheme promotes sustainable agricultural practices.
o    This will enhance soil fertility, reduce environmental pollution, and support long-term agricultural productivity.

Prelims Question:
Q. With reference to the PM-PRANAM scheme, consider the following statements:
1.    The scheme aims to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers by incentivizing states to adopt alternative fertilizers.
2.    The scheme will have a separate budget allocation under the Ministry of Agriculture.
3.    The reduction in urea consumption by a state will be compared to its average consumption of urea over the previous three years.
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: C) 1 and 3 only

Mains Question:
Q. Discuss the significance of the PM-PRANAM scheme in promoting sustainable agricultural practices in India. How does the scheme aim to balance the use of chemical fertilizers with biofertilizers and organic alternatives? (15 Marks, 250 Words)