Today's Brief 25/11/2024

IE Analysis: https://youtu.be/OUXwCRRts68?feature=shared

JN Analysis: https://youtu.be/KeQHwhnbKso?si=s4BQV89vSuf0EYyy

1 .PM Vidyalakshmi scheme:

General Studies - II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations)

is a first of its kind portal for students seeking Education Loan. This portal has been developed under the guidance of Department of Financial Services (Ministry of Finance), Department of Higher Education (Ministry of Education) and Indian Banks Association (IBA).

The portal has been developed and being maintained by Protean eGov Technologies Limited (Formerly NSDL eGovernance Infrastructure Limited). Students can view, apply and track the education loan applications to banks anytime, anywhere by accessing the portal.

The IT based mechanism under the Pradhan Mantri Vidya Lakshmi Karyakram is expected to provide to students a single window electronic platform for Scholarships and Educational Loans."

2 .STARS:

General Studies - II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations)

Strengthening Teaching-Learning and Results for States (STARS) Project was approved by the Cabinet in October 2020, to be implemented as a centrally sponsored scheme. After signing of the Loan Agreement, the STARS Project became effective on 23rd February 2021 for a period of five years i.e. up to FY: 2024-25.

The STARS Project is being implemented in six identified States viz. Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Kerala. The STARS Program is carved out of Samagra Shiksha, with a focus on those elements of the scheme that will most directly support school education enhancement.

3 .Why satellite space junk may be bad news for the environment:

General Studies - III (Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management)

Satellite space junk, or orbital debris, poses significant environmental risks. Collisions with active satellites can disrupt critical services and trigger a chain reaction known as the Kessler Syndrome, rendering space unusable. Re-entry of debris into Earth's atmosphere releases pollutants that harm the ozone layer and contribute to climate change.

While most debris burns up, larger pieces can pose a threat to people and property upon impact. To address these issues, strategies like active debris removal, responsible space practices, and international cooperation are essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of space exploration and protect our planet.

When space debris re-enters the Earth's atmosphere, it burns up, releasing pollutants like aluminum oxide and nitrogen oxides into the stratosphere. 

1  These pollutants can alter the Earth's albedo, affecting its ability to reflect sunlight. 

2  This can lead to temperature changes in the stratosphere, potentially impacting Earth's climate and disrupting the delicate balance of atmospheric chemistry. 

3  Additionally, these pollutants can harm the ozone layer, which protects us from harmful UV radiation. 

The Kessler Syndrome: A Threat to Space Exploration

The Kessler Syndrome, a concept proposed by NASA scientist Donald J. Kessler in 1978, is a scenario where the density of objects in Earth's orbit becomes so high that collisions between these objects generate debris that can then collide with other objects, creating a cascade effect. This chain reaction could eventually render low Earth orbit unusable for satellites and space missions. 

4 .Romania: a captivating Southeast European country, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. It's home to the iconic Carpathian Mountains, which offer breathtaking scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and exploring picturesque villages.

Transylvania, a region within Romania, is often associated with the legendary figure of Dracula.

While the historical figure of Vlad the Impaler, who inspired the Dracula myth, lived in the region, the real Transylvania is a charming place with medieval towns, fortified churches, and stunning castles like Bran Castle.

Bucharest, the capital city, is a dynamic metropolis with a fascinating blend of old and new. It boasts impressive architecture, including the Palace of the Parliament, one of the largest administrative buildings in the world

5 .Plastic Pollution:

General Studies - III (Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management)

The fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution is being held in Busan, South Korea from November 25 to December 1, 2024.   

The framework behind this initiative is a comprehensive approach that addresses the full life cycle of plastic, including its production, design, and disposal. The goal is to develop a robust international treaty that will significantly reduce plastic pollution and its harmful impacts on the environment and human health.   

 One of the most contentious issues is whether to impose a cap on global plastic production. While many countries support this measure as a crucial step to curb pollution, others are hesitant, fearing potential economic impacts.

The INC-5 meeting aims to build upon the progress made in previous sessions and finalize the key elements of the treaty, such as:

• Capping plastic production: This involves setting limits on the amount of plastic produced globally.   

• Design and innovation: Encouraging the development of sustainable and recyclable plastic alternatives.

• Extended producer responsibility: Making producers responsible for the entire life cycle of their products, including disposal and recycling.   

• Waste management and recycling: Improving waste management infrastructure and promoting recycling practices.

  
  

By addressing these key areas, the treaty aims to create a more sustainable future and protect our planet from the devastating effects of plastic pollution.

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