{GS2 – IR – India-Bangladesh} India-Bangladesh Border Fencing Dispute
Context (TH): In January 2025, tensions flared between India and Bangladesh over border fencing, with both nations exchanging diplomatic notes regarding security measures and past agreements.
India-Bangladesh Border Overview
Length: 4,096 km (India’s longest border).
Indian States Touched by the Border: Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura, West Bengal.
Border Security Force(BSF) is responsible for guarding.
Fencing Progress
Overall Fencing: 3,141 km (approx. 76%) of the total border fenced.
Fencing Completion Challenges
Riverine stretches: Over 900 km of riverine border (Ichamati, Padma), making fencing impossible.
Land Acquisition Delays: Non-cooperation from West Bengal government and land acquisition issues are slowing down the progress of fencing.
Local Resistance: Villagers often object to fencing that disrupts their access to land, complicating the construction process.
Difficult Terrain & Population Proximity: Villages and riverbanks complicate fencing; in some areas, the population is too close to the border, hindering progress.
Security vs. Diplomacy: India emphasizes security, citing the need to prevent cross-border crimes, while Bangladesh raises concerns about territorial integrity and adherence to the 1975 agreement.
Protocol and Agreements
1975 Guidelines: Both countries agreed to restrict permanent structures within 150 yards of the international boundary.
Exceptions: Fencing near the zero line requires mutual consent.
Recent Disputes: India’s claims of agreements over fence construction are contested by Bangladesh, especially after the regime change in August 2024.
Bangladesh’s Objections
Proximity Issues: Bangladesh opposes fencing within 150 yards of the boundary, citing 1975 guidelines.
Smart Fencing Concerns: Bangladesh objects to the use of surveillance technology (cameras, drones) within the fencing, fearing its use for monitoring Bangladeshi territory.
Inconvenience: It impacts communities in enclaves, creating logistical and social challenges.
Local Disputes: Tensions have arisen over fencing in specific areas, e.g., Malda’s Kaliachak and Cooch Behar’s Mekhliganj, leading to objections from the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).
India’s Defense of Fencing
Prevention of Crimes:60% of trans-border crimes occur in unfenced areas, and fencing is seen as vital for curbing illegal activities, including smuggling and human trafficking.
Agricultural Protection: Fencing prevents cattle movement that damages crops, such as in Mekhliganj.
No Defense Claim: India asserts that single-row fencing (SRF) is not a defensive structure but a measure to manage security and illegal activity.
Technological Solutions for Gaps
Surveillance Measures: In areas with gaps in fencing, technology like floodlights, cameras, and drones are used to monitor the border.
Simultaneous Coordinating Patrolling (SCP): BSF and BGB have held over 600 SCPs to ease tensions and improve coordination.
Recent Developments and Diplomatic Engagement
West Bengal Cabinet Approval: In Jan 2025, state government allocated land for fencing in Karimpur.
BSF and BGB Talks: Diplomatic discussions, including Director-General-level talks scheduled for February 2025, will address these issues.
Mutual Restraint: Despite tensions, both BSF and BGB have exercised restraint, holding discussions to resolve disputes.
Context (IE): Gujarat has declared the inland mangrove site in Guneri village, Kutch, as its first BHS.
Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS)
Biodiversity Heritage Sites are well-defined areas that are unique and ecologically fragile ecosystems(terrestrial, coastal, marine, inland waters) having rich biodiversity comprising of any one or more of the following components:
Species richness
High endemism
Presence of rare and threatened species, keystone species, and species of evolutionary significance
Presence of wild ancestors of domestic/cultivated species
Past pre-eminence of biological components represented by fossil beds
Areas with significant cultural, ethical, aesthetic values important for maintenance of cultural diversity
Under Section 37 of the Biodiversity Act, 2002, the State Government in consultation with local bodies may notify areas of biodiversity importance as Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS).
Declaration of an area as BHS does not put any restrictionon the prevailing practices and usages of the local communities. Because the purpose of BHS is to enhance the quality of life of the local communities through conservation measures.
Guneri’s Inland Mangrove
Situated 45 km from the Arabian Sea and 4 km from Kori Creek.
No seawater inflow, unique compared to coastal mangroves.
Only one of eight inland mangrove sites globally, and the last of its kind in India.
Spread over 32.78 hectares in Kutch district, it houses 20 migratory and 25 resident avifaunal species.
Situated onlimestone deposits, sustaining groundwater flow vital for mangrove survival.
Historical and Geological Insights
Likely formed during the Miocene period or by the ancient Saraswati River in Great Rann of Kachchh.
Limestone-rich soil supports the ecosystem by providing continuous groundwater supply.
{GS3 – Envi – Conservation} India Adds Four More Ramsar Wetlands
Notably, Jharkhand and Sikkim received their firstRamsar designations.
Ramsar Convention on Wetlands
The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands is an international treaty for “the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands”. It is also known as the Convention on Wetlands.
The convention is named after the city of Ramsar in Iran where it was signed on 2nd of February 1971. Since then, the 2nd of February each year is celebrated as the World Wetlands Day.
Udhwa is named after saint Uddhava of Mahabharat times, a friend of Lord Krishna.
The Sanctuary is connected to Ganga River through a 25 km long water channel known as the Udhuwa Nala, at Farraka.
Oriental white-backed vulture (CR), Pallas’s fish eagle (EN), Black-necked stork (NT), Lesser adjutant (NT), Oriental darter (LC) and Oriental white ibis (LC) have been recorded from here.
Threats: Heavy influx of migrants and agriculture.
Khecheopalri Wetland (Sikkim)
First Ramsar Site in Sikkim: This wetland is both sacred and ecologically significant, located in the revered Demazong Valley.
Local Significance: Known as Sho Dzo Sho, which translates to “Oh Lady, Sit Here” in the local language, reflecting its cultural importance. It is revered by both Buddhists and Hindus.
The mighty Kanchenjunga peak serves as a majestic background.
Birdlife: Home to diverse bird species, including house swifts, fishing eagles, and Brahminy kites.
Plays a vital role in Sikkim’s ecotourism and biodiversity conservation efforts.
Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
Ecological Role: Spanning 230.49 hectares, it is home to various flora such as Neem, Palmyra Palm, and Gloriosa superba.
Wildlife: Provides habitat for diverse fauna, including endangered Lion-tailed Macaque & Giant Squirrel.
Migratory Birds: A significant stop for migratory birds during the seasonal period (October to March).
Therthangal Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
Size: Spreads across 29.29 hectares, providing a critical habitat for avifauna.
Flora and Fauna: Home to plant species like Aponogeton nutans and Hydrilla verticillata, along with diverse birdlife.
Important for birdwatchers, particularly during the migratory season from October to March.
{GS3 – IE – Budget} Union Budget 2025-26: Impact of Income Tax Cuts on Economic Growth
Context (IE): The Union Budget 2025-26, includes significant income tax cuts aimed at stimulating domestic demand and boosting economic growth, following a period of slow recovery.
The tax cut aims to boost consumer spending, which the government sees as the critical factor in reviving private sector investment and overall economic growth.
Budget Big Picture
Historical Tax Cuts: The 2025-26 budget’s tax cuts are a course correction after the 2019 corporate tax cuts, which failed to stimulate the economy as expected.
Acceptance of Policy Flaws: The government acknowledges that the earlier corporate tax cuts did not boost investments sufficiently due to weak demand in the economy.
Rising Debt: The government also acknowledges rising household debt, which has grown to 41% of GDP in FY24, complicating consumption patterns.
Focus on Consumption: The tax cuts focus on stimulating demand, as the private sector failed to invest in new capacities due to uncertain consumption patterns.
Past Economic Challenges
Structural Reforms and Slowdown: Despite significant reforms like GST & EoDB initiatives, India’s economic momentum has slowed, with GDP growth remaining under 5% annuallysince 2019.
Job Creation Issues: Most new jobs are in low-wage, self-employment sectors, while manufacturing jobs have significantly reduced, particularly in labor-intensive industries like textiles and leather.
Inequality and Debt: Increasing inequality and rising household debt have worsened consumption patterns, limiting the impact of past policies.
Poor Outcomes of Government Efforts
Limited Private Sector Response: The hoped-for rise in investments following corporate tax cuts and increased infrastructure spending did not materialize as expected.
Low Manufacturing Employment: Employment in manufacturing halved between 2016 and 2020, contributing to the shift from industry to agriculture, a sign of structural issues in India’s labor market.
Macroeconomic Impact of Tax Cuts
Increased Disposable Income: Tax cuts increase disposable income for individuals, fostering higher consumer spending.
Fiscal Deficit: The government forgoes around Rs 1 lakh crore in tax revenue, potentially impacting fiscal deficit projections.
Savings and Consumption: Increased disposable income may lead to higher consumption and savings, although some savings might remain unspent.
Demand-Supply Dynamics: Higher demand can lead to increased production and consumption, but inflation may rise if demand exceeds domestic supply.
Influence on Consumption
Increased Consumer Spending: Extra income from tax cuts can encourage people to spend more on goods and services.
Rural vs Urban Impact: Tax cuts may have varying impacts on rural and urban areas, with rural areas possibly benefiting from the increased cash flow for basic goods.
Consumer Confidence: Boost in disposable income may improve consumer confidence, encouraging greater market participation.
Influence on Investment
Increased Private Investment: Increased consumption incentivize businesses to invest in new capacities.
Reduced Cost of Capital: As demand rises, lower interest rates may reduce the cost of capital, supporting business investments.
Tax cuts signal stronger demand, which may push businesses to expand and hire more workers.
Influence on Economic Growth
Multiplier Effect: Tax cuts stimulate GDP growth through a multiplier effect, where each Rs 1 cut could increase GDP by Rs 1.01.
GDP Growth: Tax cuts alone may not drive significant GDP growth; additional policy interventions are needed for sustained economic expansion.
Employment Generation: A potential rise in consumption could lead to job creation in industries catering to the demand surge, thus improving employment rates.
Limitations of the Strategy
Limited Immediate Impact: Though the tax cuts may provide a short-term boost, they will not be sufficient on their own to drive sustained long-term growth unless accompanied by other structural reforms.
Comprehensive Growth Strategy: Budget lacks a clear strategy to sustain economic growth. Tax cuts alone are unlikely to drive sustained growth without significant improvements in income levels & job creation.
Welfare Measures and Tax Cuts: Cash transfers and welfare measures by state governments have not led to a robust demand cycle, raising doubts about the effectiveness of the Rs 1 lakh crore tax cut.
Domestic vs Imported Goods: If demand exceeds the supply of domestic goods, it may lead to increased imports or inflation.
{GS3 – IE – Institutions} Makhana Board
Context (IE | IE): The Union Budget 2025 announced the establishment of a Makhana Board in Bihar to boost production, processing, and marketing of Makhana (fox nut).
About Makhana (Black Diamond)
Makhana, also known as a gorgon nut orfox nut, is a type of dried edible seed of the prickly water lily (Euryale ferox).
Known as ‘Black Diamond’ due to its small, round black/brown seeds, which turn white when processed.
It is mainly found and grown in tropical and subtropical climates.
Climatic conditions
Temperature: 20-35 degrees Celsius
Relative humidity: 50%-90%
Annual rainfall: 100-250 cm
Soil type: Smooth loamy soil
It is grown in stagnant perennial water bodies like ponds, oxbow lakes, swamps and ditches.
Health benefits of Makhana
It has high fibre content, low glycemic index and phytochemical constituents. It contains an insignificant amount of fat and is rich in protein.
It prevents high blood pressureand sugar.
Makhana in the regular diet prevents early ageing and stops the greying of hair and wrinkles.
The high calcium content with nominal saturated fat of makhana strengthens bones and muscles.
Makhana contains a low amount of sodium and a high amount of potassium, which is good for cardiac health. It also has a healthy amount of minerals like magnesium, manganese, and phosphorus.
Used in traditional medicine and as a healthy snack.
It has a growing global demand as a ‘superfood’ among fitness enthusiasts.
Major Production Regions
The global Makhana market, valued at $43.56 million in 2023, is projected to reach $100 million by 2033.
India contributes to 80% of the world’s demand for Foxnuts.
Bihar accounts for 90% of India’s Makhana production.
Also cultivated in neighboring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, China, Japan, and Korea.
Challenges in Makhana Production
Labor-intensive harvesting and processing methods.
Lack of high-yield seed adoption; traditional varieties yield 1.7-1.9 tonnes per hectare compared to HYV’s 3-3.5 tonnes per hectare.
Bihar lacks food processing units and export infrastructure.
No cargo facilities at Bihar’s airports hinder exports.
Middlemen reduce farmers’ profit margins.
Significance of Makhana Board
Rs 100 crore budget allocation to boost production, processing, and export.
Aims to enhance food processing capabilities and market reach.
Provides training and handholding support to farmers and helps organize farmers into Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs).
Integrates Makhana farming with government schemes.
Supports branding, marketing, & infrastructure development under One District One Product scheme.
Economic and Political Implications
Economic Boost: Strengthening the food processing industry in Bihar can create jobs and improve farmers’ income.
Market Expansion: Global Makhana market, valued at $43.56 million in 2023, expected to reach $100 million by 2033 (CAGR 8.31%).
Political Impact: Supports Mallah (fishermen) community, which is heavily involved in Makhana farming, ahead of Bihar elections.
Government Initiatives and Way Forward
Bihar government’s long-standing demand for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Makhana.
Investment in food processing and export infrastructure.
Expansion of airports in Patna, Purnea, and Darbhanga with cargo facilities.
Strengthening of the National Research Centre for Makhana (Darbhanga).
Mechanization of harvesting and processing techniques.
Encouraging farmers to adopt high-yielding seed varieties like Swarna Vaidehi & Sabour Makhana-1.
Other Food Items Considered Diamonds
Red Diamond:Saffron, known for its rich color and distinct flavor, is sometimes referred to as the red diamond because of its rarity and high price.
Black Diamond of the Sea:Caviar, the roe of sturgeon fish, is considered the black diamond of the sea due to its luxurious nature and high cost.
Golden Diamond:Alphonso mango is called the golden diamond for its rich taste, high quality, and rarity in certain regions.
Black Diamond of the Kitchen:Truffles, a type of fungi, are known as the black diamond of the kitchen due to their rarity, unique flavor, and high cost.
Black Diamond of the Culinary World:Vanilla, especially the Bourbon variety, is sometimes called the black diamond because of its labor-intensive cultivation process and premium value.
Seed Diamond: Due to their delicate flavor and rarity, pine nuts are sometimes referred to as seed diamonds.
{Prelims – In News} Indian Railways’ ‘SwaRail’ SuperApp
Context (PIB): Indian Railways has launched the ‘SwaRail’ SuperApp for beta testing, aiming to integrate various railway services into a single platform for better user experience.
Key Features of ‘SwaRail’ SuperApp
Developed by Centre for Railway Information Systems to improve service integration.
Combines multiple railway services like ticket booking, train status, and food orders into one app.
Single Sign-On: Users can access all services with one set of credentials across RailConnect, UTS, and other apps.
Multiple Login Options: Supports m-PIN and biometric authentication for secure and easy access.
Integrated Services
Ticket Booking: Includes both reserved and unreserved ticket bookings, along with platform tickets.
PNR and Train Status: Provides real-time PNR enquiries, train schedules, and movement updates.
Food Ordering and Rail Madad: Users can order food on trains and access complaint management services via Rail Madad.
{Prelims – Sci – Bio – Diseases} Comparision of BBE and GBS
Context (IE): A rare case of Bickerstaff’s Brainstem Encephalitis (BBE) was reported in Pune, with the patient also diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS).
Bickerstaff’s Brainstem Encephalitis (BBE)
An acute, post-infectious, inflammatory disorder affecting the central nervous system (CNS).
Symptoms: Imbalance (ataxia), ophthalmoplegia (visual disturbances like double vision), drowsiness, weakness in limbs, and difficulty walking.
Onset: Symptoms develop rapidly within days, often after a mild respiratory or diarrheal illness.
Diagnosis of BBE
MRI of Brain: Detects brainstem involvement.
Lumbar Puncture: To rule out infection; similar cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis to GBS (elevated protein, normal sugar, normal/mildly elevated cell counts).
Antiganglioside Antibodies: Two-thirds of patients show anti-GQ1b antibodies, though absence doesn’t rule out BBE.
Treatment
Treatment: Similar to GBS with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) injections, plasma exchange, respiratory support if needed, physical therapy, and symptom management.
Prognosis: Good with early diagnosis & management; long-term follow-up required to prevent relapses.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)
GBS is an autoimmune disorderwhere the immune system attacks the body’s peripheral nerves.
Symptoms: Muscle weakness, tingling, paralysis, difficulty breathing, and loss of reflexes.
Often triggered by infections, such as viral (eg- norovirus) or bacterial (eg- Campylobacter) infections.
Seek medical advice for neurological symptoms such as rapidly progressing weakness or tingling in limbs.
Treatment:Plasmapheresis or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) to reduce immune system activity.
Vaccine: There is no specific vaccine for GBS; vaccination against infections that trigger GBS, like influenza, may reduce risk.
General Precautions: Use face masks, annual flu vaccination, and consume hygienic food and water.
Difference Between BBE and GBS
Bothare Post-infectious immune-mediated conditions, but BBE Affects the CNS, particularly the brainstem while GBS Primarily affects the peripheral nervous system.
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