Prelims Focus 5th April 2025

Tipitaka

In News: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was supplied with ‘The World Tipitaka: Sajjhaya Phonetic Edition’ through his Thai counterpart, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, in a diplomatic exchange.

• The term Tipiṭaka method “Three Baskets” in Pāli, representing the 3 primary divisions of the Buddhist scriptures.
• The Three “Baskets” of the Tipiṭaka consists of:
  • Vinaya Piṭaka (Basket of Discipline): Contains rules and techniques for monastic life and the subject of monks and nuns.
  • Sutta Piṭaka (Basket of Discourses): Comprises the Buddha’s teachings, provided within the form of discourses or sermons.
  • Abhidhamma Piṭaka (Basket of Higher Doctrine): Offers a systematic and philosophical evaluation of Buddhist teachings.
• Compiled after the Buddha’s death (5th century BCE) on the First Buddhist Council in Rajagaha (Rajgir), India.

Baku to Belem Roadmap

In News: India known as BRICS countries to unite at the back of the ‘Baku to Belem Roadmap’, aimed toward mobilizing USD 1.3 trillion to assist the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) of developing countries.

• The Baku to Belém Roadmap is a strategic framework adopted at COP29 (2024) to guide negotiations and movements on:
  • Defining a new collective quantified aim (NCQG) on climate finance post-2025.
  • Ensuring greater predictability, adequacy, and accessibility of weather finance.
  • Supporting low-carbon and climate-resilient development pathways in developing countries.
  • Enabling the implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

Kannadippaya GI Tag: Understanding Its Significance

In News: Kannadippaya, a traditional tribal handicraft from Kerala, has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, marking a significant milestone as the first tribal handicraft from the state to receive this recognition. This achievement highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage and promoting sustainable craftsmanship.

What is Kannadippaya?

• Definition: Kannadippaya, meaning “mirror mat,” is a handwoven mat made from the inner layers of reed bamboo. It is renowned for its natural insulation properties, keeping users warm in winter and cool in summer.
• Cultural Significance: This traditional art form is maintained by tribal communities such as Oorali, Mannan, Muthuva, Malayan, Kadar, and artisans like Ulladan, Malayarayan, and Hill Pulaya across Idukki, Thrissur, Ernakulam, and Palakka.

Significance of the GI Tag

• Legal Protection: The GI tag provides legal protection to producers, preventing unauthorized use of the product name and ensuring authenticity.
• Market Expansion: This recognition is expected to enhance global market access and promote sustainable livelihoods for artisans involved in its production.
• Cultural Preservation: The GI tag helps preserve indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage by promoting local craftsmanship and preventing counterfeiting.

Undersea Cables: Importance and India’s Role

In News: China has recently unveiled a deep-sea cable-cutting device capable of severing reinforced undersea cables at unprecedented depths, marking a significant advancement in its underwater capabilities. This development has raised concerns among international security experts due to its potential to disrupt global communication networks.

What Are Undersea Cables?

Undersea cables, also known as submarine cables, are fiber-optic cables laid on the ocean floor that facilitate international data transfer. They form the backbone of global internet connectivity, handling approximately 99% of international data traffic. These cables connect continents, enabling high-speed, reliable, and cost-effective communication across the globe.

How Do Undersea Cables Connect Global Internet Networks?

• Data Transmission: Fiber-optic technology transmits data in the form of light signals, ensuring high-speed communication.
• Global Network: These cables link data centers and internet service providers worldwide, supporting services like e-commerce, cloud computing, social media, and streaming.
• Capacity: Modern systems can transmit data at speeds exceeding 200 terabits per second (Tbps), making them faster and cheaper than satellite communication.

Importance of Undersea Cables

1. Global Connectivity: They are critical for international communication and economic integration.
2. Digital Economy: Submarine cables support industries like IT services, e-commerce, and entertainment.
3. Strategic Significance: Countries rely on these cables for secure and uninterrupted data flow.

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