The Nobel Prize in Physics of 2014 was jointly awarded to Akasaki, Amano and Nakamura for the invention of Blue LEDs in 1990s. How has this invention impacted the everyday life of human beings?

Points to Remember: The impact of blue LEDs on lighting technology. The impact of blue LEDs on various industries and applications. The environmental and economic benefits of blue LEDs. The societal impact of improved lighting. Introduction: The 2014 Nobel Prize in Physics recognized Isamu Akasaki, Hiroshi Amano, and Shuji Nakamura for their invention of efficient … Read more

Each year a large amount of plant material, cellulose, is deposited on the surface of Planet Earth. What are the natural processes this cellulose undergoes before yielding carbon dioxide, water and other end products?

Points to Remember: Cellulose decomposition is a complex process involving various microorganisms. Different environmental factors influence the rate of decomposition. The end products are primarily carbon dioxide, water, and other simple organic compounds. Understanding this process is crucial for carbon cycle management and ecosystem health. Introduction: Every year, a vast quantity of cellulose, a complex … Read more

The increase in life expectancy in the country has led to newer health challenges in the community. What are those challenges and what steps need to be taken to meet them?

Points to Remember: Increased life expectancy leads to a rise in age-related diseases. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) become prevalent. Healthcare systems need adaptation to meet evolving needs. Financial implications for individuals and the state are significant. Social support systems need strengthening. Introduction: Increased life expectancy is a significant achievement reflecting improvements in healthcare, sanitation, and nutrition. … Read more

Adoption of PPP model for infrastructure development of the country has not been free of criticism. Critically discuss the pros and cons of the model.

Points to Remember: Definition of PPP: Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) involve collaborations between government entities and private sector companies to finance, build, and operate infrastructure projects. Pros of PPPs: Increased efficiency, reduced public debt, access to private sector expertise and technology. Cons of PPPs: Potential for cost overruns, lack of transparency, risk transfer to the public … Read more

Though India allowed Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in what is called multi-brand retail through the joint venture route in September 2012, the FDI, even after a year, has not picked up. Discuss the reasons.

Points to Remember: Slow FDI uptake in multi-brand retail in India post-2012. Identification of key reasons hindering FDI inflow. Balanced discussion encompassing both challenges and potential. Policy recommendations for improved FDI attraction. Introduction: In September 2012, India permitted Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in multi-brand retail through the joint venture route, aiming to modernize the retail … Read more

Discuss the impact of FDI entry into multi-trade retail sector on supply chain management in commodity trade pattern of the economy.

Points to Remember: FDI impact on supply chain efficiency Changes in commodity trade patterns Benefits and drawbacks for domestic players Role of technology and infrastructure Policy implications and recommendations Introduction: Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the multi-trade retail sector significantly influences a nation’s economy, particularly its supply chain management and commodity trade patterns. The entry … Read more

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the defence sector is now set to be liberalized: What in fluence this is expected to have on Indian defence and economy in the short and long run?

Points to Remember: Increased domestic competition and technological advancements. Potential for job creation and economic growth. Risks of dependence on foreign technology and national security concerns. Need for robust regulatory frameworks and strategic partnerships. Introduction: Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in India’s defence sector has traditionally been heavily restricted. However, recent policy changes aim to liberalize … Read more

Explain how Private Public Partnership arrangements, in long gestation infrastructure projects, can transfer unsustainable liabilities to the future. What arrangements need to be put in place to ensure that successive generations’capacities are not compromised?

Points to Remember: Private Public Partnerships (PPPs) in infrastructure. Long gestation projects and their inherent risks. Transfer of unsustainable liabilities to future generations. Mitigation strategies and safeguards. Introduction: Private Public Partnerships (PPPs) are increasingly used to finance and deliver large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly those with long gestation periods (i.e., projects requiring many years to complete). … Read more

Examine the developments of Airports in India through Joint Ventures under Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. What are the challenges faced by the authorities in this regard.

Points to Remember: Development of Indian airports through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). Joint ventures as a key PPP mechanism. Challenges faced by authorities in implementing airport PPPs. Successes and failures of airport PPP projects in India. Policy recommendations for improving airport PPPs. Introduction: India’s burgeoning aviation sector necessitates significant investment in airport infrastructure. The Public-Private Partnership … Read more

Explain the meaning of investment in an economy in terms of capital formation. Discuss the factors to be considered while designing a concession agreement between a public’ entity and a private entity.

Points to Remember: Investment’s role in capital formation. Types of investment (domestic, foreign, public, private). Key components of a concession agreement. Balancing public interest with private sector efficiency. Risk allocation and dispute resolution mechanisms. Introduction: Investment, in the context of an economy, refers to the allocation of resources (funds, time, effort) with the expectation of … Read more