Satellite Pollution

• The increasing number of satellites in orbit is raising concerns about atmospheric pollution. Currently, there are over 10,000 active satellites, with projections suggesting this could exceed 100,000 by the 2030s. As satellites re-enter the atmosphere, they disintegrate and release various pollutants. This phenomenon poses threat to the Earth’s atmosphere and environmental stability.

Satellite Lifecycle and Pollution Sources

• Satellites typically burn up upon re-entry into the atmosphere. This process releases aerosol particles that contain metals such as aluminium. Recent studies indicate that 10% of stratospheric aerosol particles now contain pollutants from satellite burn-up. The emissions from rocket launches also contribute to atmospheric pollution, with a notable increase in harmful substances observed over the past few years.

Impact on the Ozone Layer

• The ozone layer plays important role in protecting life on Earth by absorbing harmful ultraviolet rays. However, pollutants from burnt satellites threaten this protective layer. Aluminium oxide, a by-product of satellite incineration, is a known catalyst for ozone depletion. This adds a new layer of risk to the ozone layer’s integrity, especially after the global efforts of the Montreal Protocol.

Atmospheric Chemistry Changes

• Pollution from satellite re-entries could alter the atmospheric chemistry . Soot from rocket engines can absorb solar energy, potentially warming the atmosphere. Metals released during the incineration of spacecraft materials can catalyse various chemical reactions. These changes may lead to the formation of new particles that could influence cloud formation and weather patterns.

Future Projections and Concerns

• With the anticipated rise in satellite numbers, the potential for increased atmospheric pollution is alarming. Scientists are wary of the long-term effects this might have on climate stability and ecological balance. Even small changes in atmospheric composition could have far-reaching consequences for life on Earth.

Mitigation Strategies

• Addressing satellite pollution requires international cooperation and innovative solutions. Strategies may include developing cleaner rocket technologies and creating guidelines for satellite disposal. Enhanced monitoring of atmospheric pollutants will also be essential to understand the full impact of satellite activities on the environment.

Agriculture Sector in India

• Agriculture in India which employs 43% of the total population, is currently myriad with major structural challenges in policy execution. Inclusion of new technologies from biotechnology to modern farming solutions calls for a careful balancing to be accepted with traditional farming practices.
• Building a sustainable agricultural ecosystem that successfully connects scientific advancements, grassroots implementation, and farmer needs while guaranteeing national food security is the fundamental challenge.

Challenges in India’s Agricultural Sector

• Vulnerabilities associated with Climate Change – The crop yields and farming patterns all over India are severely impacted by the increasing number of extreme weather events. Heat waves, erratic rainfall, and unseasonal rains have created unprecedented challenges for traditional agricultural calendars and crop choices.  
• Inefficient Irrigation and Water Deficiency – Agriculture sector in India is still the largest consumer of water while operating at sub-optimal irrigation efficiency level. Despite high water wastage, farmers persist with flood irrigation methods.
• Declining Farm Sizes – The continuous division of agricultural land is severely impacting economic viability of farming operations and technology adoption. The average farm size has shrunk, making mechanization and modern farming practices increasingly difficult to implement effectively.
• Market Access and Price Realization – Farmers continue to face significant challenges in getting fair prices for their produce due to multiple intermediaries and inadequate market infrastructure.
• Technology Adoption Gap – Despite being the third-largest startup ecosystem globally, India’s agritech penetration remains low with significant resistance to new technologies. The digital divide and lack of technical knowledge continue to hamper modern agriculture practice adoption.   
• Post-Harvest Challenges – Owing to inadequate storage facilities, processing and cold chain infrastructures, India continues to accrue major post-harvest losses. 
• Soil Health Degradation – Monocropping and excessive use of chemical fertilizers have seriously degraded the soil in many important agricultural areas. The careless use of NPK fertilizers has resulted in significant nutrient imbalances that have an impact on soil productivity over the long run. 

Measures to Strengthen Agriculture Sector in India

• Digital Agricultural Ecosystem – Create a unified online platform that links all agricultural services, including market access and soil testing. Use blockchain to identify fair prices and increase supply chain transparency. Create a uniform database combining land records, agricultural patterns, and credit histories to enable accurate policy interventions.  
• Revolution in Water Management – Use incentive-based strategies to require micro-irrigation for crops that require a lot of water. Put into practice crop planning based on water availability and community-led water budgeting. Use custom employment centers run by FPO to promote precision irrigation technologies. 
• Empowering Farmer Producer Organizations – Convert FPOs into full-fledged companies that manage the supply, processing, and marketing of inputs. Establish market connections and offer committed business development assistance. To increase FPOs’ access to formal financing, develop a unique credit rating system.  
• Development of Post-Harvest Infrastructure – Create a hub-and-spoke model for block and village-level storage systems. Use PPP methods to build cold chains with guaranteed procurement connections. Establish quality testing labs and storage facilities for multiple commodities. 
• Soil Health Management – Use PoS systems to link fertilizer sales to required soil health cards. Encourage the use of organic inputs and biofertilizers by means of regional production facilities. Establish village-level soil testing facilities run by young, skilled rural workers.  
• Alternative Farming Systems – Encourage vertical farming with inexpensive hydroponic systems in peri-urban locations. Install aquaponics systems for small farmers that want to grow both vegetables and fish.

Conclusion

• Agriculture sector in India holds prominent significance as it employs almost 43% of the population and so restructuring of this sector needs a holistic approach to include government policies, private sector investment and farmer-led innovation. By embracing sustainable practices, empowering farmers, and leveraging technology, India can not only meet its domestic food needs but also emerge as a global agricultural powerhouse. 

Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act

• Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said the ministry is considering if any further amendment is needed in the AMASR Act.
• He was delivering the inaugural address at the 14th Foundation Day function of the National Monuments Authority (NMA), a statutory body under the Ministry of Culture.
• The sites under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) are maintained under the ambit of the AMSAR (Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains) Act. 
• At present, 3,697 monuments are under the ASI.

Archaeological Survey of India

• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), established in the year 1871, is the premier organisation for the archaeological research and protection of the cultural heritage of the country. 
• The ASI, under the Ministry of Culture, regulates various archaeological activities and research in the country. 
• The maintenance of ancient monuments and archaeological sites and remains of national importance is one of the prime concerns of the ASI. 
• At present, it protects and maintains 3,697 ancient monuments and archaeological sites and remains of national importance through 38 Circles (including 1 mini circle at Leh), functioning under six  regional directorates located at Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Guwahati, and Bhopal. 

 It regulates two central Acts — the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act (AMASR), 1958, and Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972.

What is AMASR Act?

• The Parliament had enacted the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 on August 28, 1958 to provide for the preservation of ancient and historical monuments and archaeological sites and remains of national importance, for the regulation of archaeological excavations and for the protection of sculptures, carvings and other like objects.
• It was enacted after repealing the Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Declaration of States Reorganisation) Act, 1951 and section 126 of the State Reorganisation Act, 1956. 

 Notifying any monument as of national importance or de-notification is taken up by the government as per provisions of the AMASR Act.

• Under section 20A of the AMASR Act, an area extending to a distance of 100 meters in all directions from the protected area and protected monument is prohibited area for any construction. 
• Beyond this, 200 meters area has been declared as Regulated Area for the said purposes. Repair/renovation of the existing structures in prohibited areas and new constructions in regulated areas are permissible on obtaining permission from National Monument Authority/ Competent Authority meant for such purpose. 

 Subsequently, the Parliament passed an Act to further amend the AMASR Act on March 29, 2010 to set up a National Monuments Authority for protection and preservation of monuments and sites through management of prohibited and regulated area around the centrally protected monuments.

• Several functions have been assigned to the NMA for the protection and preservation of monuments and sites through management of the prohibited and regulated area around the centrally protected monuments. 
• One amongst these responsibilities of NMA is also to consider grant of permissions to applicants for construction related activity in the prohibited and regulated area.
• With increase of urbanisation, development, growth and increasing population pressure, there is growing pressure on land, including the land around centrally protected monuments. As this often affects the monument/site adversely, it is important that such growth around the centrally protected monuments is properly regulated, balancing the needs of individuals and growth and development on the one hand and the requirements of preservation and protection of these monuments on the other.

 NMA has been mandated to frame monuments specific heritage bye-laws to regulate construction activities around the centrally protected monuments. 

• It has also been given the responsibility of classification and gradation of monuments in consultation with the Archaeological Survey of India.

Global Treaty to Curb Plastic Pollution

• Several Over 170 countries will gather in Busan, South Korea to negotiate a global treaty aimed at ending plastic pollution. This meeting marks the fifth round of discussions initiated by the UN Environmental Assembly in 2022. The urgency arises from the alarming statistics surrounding plastic production and waste management. The global production of plastic has surged, doubling from 234 million tonnes in 2000 to 460 million tonnes in 2019. Projections suggest this could reach 700 million tonnes by 2040.

Plastic Pollution

• Plastic pollution is environmental crisis. It takes decades to decompose, leading to accumulation in ecosystems. Less than 10% of plastic is recycled. Each year, around 400 million tonnes of plastic waste is generated, with projections indicating a 62% increase by 2050. This waste often enters oceans and rivers, breaking down into microplastics, which pose health risks to marine life and humans.

Health and Environmental Impacts

• The health implications of plastic pollution are severe. Chemicals in plastics can disrupt endocrine functions and lead to diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Additionally, plastic contributes to climate change, accounting for 3.6% of global greenhouse gas emissions in 2020. Without intervention, emissions from plastic production could increase by 20% by 2050.

Global Negotiation Goals

• The negotiations aim to create a comprehensive framework for managing plastic throughout its lifecycle. Key topics include banning harmful plastic types, setting recycling targets, and addressing financial mechanisms for waste management. Countries are divided on production caps, with oil-rich nations resisting strict regulations.

India’s Stance

• India opposes restrictions on polymer production, arguing that such measures exceed the UN’s mandate. The country advocates for financial and technical support in the treaty and stresses that regulations on harmful chemicals should be based on scientific evidence. India has already implemented a ban on 19 categories of single-use plastics.

Challenges Ahead

• The path to a unified treaty faces important obstacles. Divergent interests among nations complicate the negotiations. While some countries push for ambitious reductions, others favour less stringent measures. The need for a balanced approach that considers national circumstances is essential for successful treaty formulation.

Conclusion

• The upcoming negotiations in Busan represent a critical opportunity to address the growing plastic pollution crisis. The outcomes will impact global environmental policies and the health of ecosystems worldwide.

Nafithromycin: India''s First Indigenous Antibiotic

• The India has launched Nafithromycin, the country’s first indigenously advanced antibiotic focused on antimicrobial resistance (AMR). 
• Development: It is Developed with help from the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) and brought to market by Wockhardt under the name Miqnaf.
• The development of Nafithromycin took 14 years of studies and an investment of ₹500 crore, with medical trials conducted in the U.S., Europe, and India. 
• It is designed to treat Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (CABP) resulting from drug-resistant bacteria, especially affecting prone companies like youngsters, the elderly, and immune-compromised patients.
• Effectiveness: The antibiotic is ten times more effective than azithromycin, with a three-day remedy regimen that is more secure, faster, and higher tolerated by sufferers.
• It has minimal side results and no significant drug interactions, making it a versatile answer. 
• Importance: Nafithromycin is the first new antibiotic in its elegance to be developed globally in over 30 years and is poised to tackle the global AMR crisis. India bears 23% of the world’s pneumonia burden, and this innovation ambitions to offer a much-wished technique to the developing health disaster.
• The launch of Nafithromycin marks a substantial milestone in India’s efforts to develop homegrown answers for essential healthcare challenges.
• Approval Status: It is looking ahead to final approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) for public use.

Proba-3 Mission

India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is preparing to launch the Proba-3 mission on December 4, 2024. This mission, developed by the European Space Agency, is unique as it involves two satellites flying in formation to study the solar corona. This innovative approach marks advancement in space exploration

Overview of Proba-3 Mission

• The Proba-3 mission consists of two satellites designed to operate in tandem. Unlike traditional missions where instruments are housed on a single satellite, this mission separates the coronagraph and occulter across two different satellites. This design allows for larger instruments to be deployed, enhancing the capability to study the solar corona.

Formation Flying Technology

• The satellites will maintain a distance of approximately 150 metres from each other for up to six hours daily. They will use a laser system for precise positioning, ensuring they remain parallel. This technology allows for advanced observation of solar phenomena without interference from the Sun’s brightness.

Collision Avoidance Manoeuvre

• A key feature of the Proba-3 mission is its Collision Avoidance Manoeuvre. The satellites will autonomously adjust their positions to prevent collisions. This system operates without ground support, showcasing advanced autonomous capabilities in space navigation.

Scientific Benefits

• The separation of instruments across two satellites permits the use of larger scientific  tools. This will enable researchers to capture fainter signals from distant solar phenomena. The enhanced observational capacity is expected to yield important vital information about solar dynamics.

Comparison with Previous Missions

• While previous missions have achieved formation flying, Proba-3 aims for unprecedented precision. Earlier missions maintained centimetre-level accuracy. In contrast, Proba-3 will achieve millimetre-level accuracy, allowing for more detailed and accurate data collection.

Significance for Future Missions

• The success of the Proba-3 mission could pave the way for future missions involving formation flying. This method can be applied to various scientific objectives, enhancing our understanding of space and celestial bodies.

International Collaboration

• The Proba-3 mission exemplifies international cooperation in space exploration. With contributions from the European Space Agency and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), it marks the importance of global partnerships in advancing scientific knowledge.

Technological Innovations

• The mission employs cutting-edge technology, including advanced sensors and autonomous systems. These innovations will not only benefit solar studies but also have potential applications in other fields of space exploration.

Future Implications

• About the solar corona is crucial for predicting solar activity that affects Earth. The findings from this mission could have implications for space weather forecasting and satellite operations, making it a vital endeavour for both scientific and practical reasons.

 Rule 267 becomes the bone of contention in Rajya Sabha

• Rajya Sabha proceedings were adjourned for the day as opposition parties led by the Congress tried to raise the issue of the indictment of Adani group founder chairman Gautam Adani and others in a US court on charges of paying bribes to secure solar power supply contracts.
• Earlier, Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar disallowed 13 notices served under Rule 267, including seven that sought a discussion on the US indictment on the alleged payment of $265 million in bribes. But the Congress and Left parties insisted on a discussion, forcing a 15-minute adjournment of proceedings.
• Rule 267 of Rajya Sabha pertains to the suspension of a day’s business for taking up an issue. 
• Soon after listed papers were laid on the table of the House and obituary references read out on the death of former MPs, Dhankhar said he had received 13 notices under rule 267 but was not convinced to accept them.
• • The other notices under rule 267, which calls for suspending the listed business of the House to take up discussion on the issue being sought to be raised, pertained to continued violence in Manipur, violent clashes in Uttar Pradesh''s Sambhal district and special assistance to the flood-hit Wayanad district of Kerala.

What is Rule 267?

• At times, there may arise situations when MPs seek to raise issues beyond the available tools depending upon the urgency of the matter. Envisaging such eventuality, Rule 267 has been provided in the Rules of Procedures and Conduct of Business in the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) to raise urgent issues of public importance by suspending normal operation of Rules. 
• Rule 267 calls for setting aside business of the day to take up a discussion on the issue pressed.

It states that:

• “Any member, may, with the consent of the Chairman, move that any rule may be suspended in its application to a motion related to the business listed before the Council of that day and if the motion is carried, the rule in question shall be suspended for the time being:
• Provided further that this rule shall not apply where specific provision already exists for suspension of a rule under a particular chapter of the Rules.”
• The Chairman alone has the power to give consent for moving of a motion for suspension of a rule and it is for the House to decide whether a particular rule should be suspended or not. 
• The primary objective of such a Motion is to draw the attention of the government to a matter of urgent public importance in regard to which a motion or a resolution with proper notice will be too late.
• Adoption of the Motion results in the suspension of the listed business and commencement of the discussion on the subject of the motion.  

 Former Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu had earlier noted that Rule 267 should be used on rare occasions as a “Brahmastra” for emergent or extraordinary situations. “If you start seeking recourse to Rule 267, you cannot run the House. It is very rarely used. It is like ‘Brahmastra’, which is used when other ‘astras’ weapons do not succeed,” he said.

• The Lok Sabha has a similar provision — the Adjournment Motion.

What is an Adjournment Motion?

• Adjournment Motion is the procedure for adjournment of the business of the House for the purpose of discussing a definite matter of urgent public importance, which can be moved with the consent of the Speaker. 
• It needs the support of 50 members to be admitted. 
• The primary objective of an Adjournment Motion is to draw the attention of the House to a recent matter of urgent public importance having serious consequences and with regard to which a motion or a resolution with proper notice will be too late. 
• The Adjournment Motion, if admitted, leads to setting aside of the normal business of the House for discussing the matter mentioned in the motion.  

The discussion on an Adjournment Motion should last for not less than two hours and 30 minutes

Shaheedi Divas

• The Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, is commemorated on November 24 as Shaheedi Divas. He was executed in 1675 under the orders of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. His martyrdom is important in Sikh history, representing the struggle against religious oppression.

Who Was Guru Tegh Bahadur?

Guru Tegh Bahadur was born on April 21, 1621, in Amritsar. He was the son of Guru Hargobind, the sixth Sikh Guru. Known for his ascetic nature, he was initially called Tyag Mal. Trained in religious philosophy and martial skills, he distinguished himself in battle at a young age.

• Path to Guruship

After the death of his brother Gurditta, the guruship passed to his young nephew, Guru Har Rai. Following the death of Guru Har Rai, Guru Tegh Bahadur was recognised as the Guru in Bakala after a wealthy trader identified him through a divine sign.

• Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Teachings

The Guru preached against superstitions and promoted fearlessness and equality. He travelled extensively, spreading his message across North India. His teachings resonated with diverse communities, transcending linguistic barriers.

Indian cuisine recipes

• Conflict with the Mughals

Guru Tegh Bahadur’s growing influence led to conflicts with Mughal authorities. He was falsely accused and arrested but was later released due to intervention from Raja Ram Singh. His teachings challenged the oppressive practices of the Mughal regime.

• Travels and Influence

The Guru travelled beyond Punjab, reaching places like Dhaka and Puri. He established following and was instrumental in encouraging inter-regional connections among Sikhs. His travels helped in solidifying Sikh identity across India.

• The Martyrdom

In 1675, Guru Tegh Bahadur was approached by Kashmiri Brahmins seeking protection from forced conversions. He challenged Aurangzeb’s authority, leading to his arrest. He was executed on November 11, 1675, after refusing to convert to Islam. The site of his execution is now Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib.

• Commemoration of Shaheedi Divas

The date of his martyrdom has been subject to change due to calendar differences. It is now observed on November 24, following the introduction of the Nanakshahi calendar. His legacy continues to inspire many, symbolising resistance against tyranny.

 UN Alliance of Civilizations

• The UN Alliance of Civilizations was established in 2005 by then Secretary-General Kofi Annan. Its aim is to encourage cultural diversity and mutual respect among different societies. This initiative has gained momentum over the years, focusing on bridging divides and promoting peace.
• The recent 10th Global Forum in Cascais, Portugal, marks these efforts. It gathers delegates from over 130 countries to discuss pressing global issues.

Objectives of the Alliance

• The Alliance aims to promote cultural diversity. It encourages dialogue among different faiths and cultures. This initiative is crucial for building peace and ensuring sustainable development. It aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 goals. The Alliance is not merely a symbolic gesture. It addresses real challenges facing humanity.

Global Forum Highlights

• The 10th Global Forum focuses on the theme “Uniting in Peace – Restoring Trust, Reshaping the Future.” It features discussions on various topics, including artificial intelligence and sports. These discussions aim to find innovative solutions for global challenges. The forum also includes a Youth Forum, showcasing the perspectives of young people on these issues.

PLURAL+ Youth Video Festival

• The PLURAL+ Youth Video Festival is part of the Global Forum. It invites young filmmakers to submit videos on migration, diversity, and social inclusion. This year, 32 short films from 21 countries were selected. The festival recognises youth as vital agents of social change. Their creative expressions are essential in promoting tolerance and understanding.

Intercultural Innovation Hub

• The Intercultural Innovation Hub marks grassroots projects. Over 1,800 entries were submitted, showcasing innovative ideas for social change. Projects include social circuses and child-friendly city designs. This initiative, co-sponsored by BMW Group and Accenture, promotes diversity and gender equality through creative solutions.

Music as a Tool for Peace

• The West-Eastern Divan Ensemble exemplifies the power of music in conflict resolution. Founded by Israeli conductor Daniel Barenboim and Palestinian scholar Edward Said, this ensemble brings together musicians from conflicting regions. Their collaboration demonstrates that art can encourage dialogue and understanding. Even amidst ongoing conflicts, music remains a unifying force.

Future Prospects

• The UN Alliance of Civilizations continues to evolve. Its initiatives aim to address contemporary global issues. The focus remains on encouraging dialogue and understanding among diverse cultures. The commitment to peace and sustainable development is stronger than ever.

Urban Infrastructure in India

 Current Investment Landscape

• The government’s investment in urban infrastructure is inadequate. It covers just over 25% of the necessary funding. Approximately 50% of the investment is directed towards basic urban services, while the other half is allocated for urban transport. Municipal finances, critical for urban funding, have stagnated. Since 2002, municipal finance has remained at 1% of GDP. Municipal bodies contribute 45% of urban investments, with the rest managed by parastatal agencies.

Challenges in Municipal Finance

• Despite an increase in transfers from central and state governments, the financial health of municipalities remains poor. Tax revenue growth has been slow, with only 8% increase between 2010 and 2018. The share of municipalities’ own revenue has declined, leading to reduced self-sufficiency. Collection inefficiencies are evident, with urban local bodies (ULBs) in cities like Bengaluru and Jaipur collecting only 5%-20% of their potential tax revenue.

Utilisation of Funds

• Indian cities face challenges in spending allocated funds. About 23% of total municipal revenue goes unspent. Major cities like Hyderabad and Chennai only utilised 50% of their capital budgets in recent years. Programmes such as the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation have seen 80% fund utilisation, while the Smart Cities Mission reached 70%.

Decline in Public-Private Partnerships

• Public-private partnerships (PPPs) have decreased . Investments peaked at ₹8,353 crore in 2012 but fell to ₹467 crore by 2018. The lack of project-specific revenues makes PPPs less attractive to investors.

Steps for Reform

• To tackle these challenges, a dual-pronged approach is necessary. Long-term structural reforms should strengthen state finance commissions and enhance municipal autonomy. In the medium term, developing a pipeline of projects is essential. Around 15% of the ₹70 lakh crore could come from PPPs, necessitating 600-800 projects to be prepared.

Leveraging Technology and Land Value

• Utilising Digital Public Infrastructure can improve urban service delivery. Additionally, integrating land value capture in transport projects, especially metro rail initiatives, can enhance urban efficiency. This approach will ensure that transport developments contribute positively to urban growth.

Winter Session of Parliament begins

• The Winter Session of Parliament is scheduled to begin on November 25 and continue till December 20, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said.
• A special celebration to mark the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution will be held in the Central Hall of the Samvidhan Sadan on November 26 (Constitution Day).

What are the Sessions of Parliament?

• A Session is the period of time between the meeting of a Parliament and its prorogation. During the course of a Session, either House may adjourn to such date as it pleases. 

Normally three Sessions are held in a year: 

• 1) Budget Session -  January & February and March & April.
• The Budget Session is divided into two parts. It has a break to enable department-related committees to consider and report on demands for grants of the various ministries.
• 2) Monsoon Session - July, August and September.
• 3) Winter Session -  November and December.
• The period between the prorogation of Parliament and its reassembly in a new Session is termed as a ‘recess’.
• ‘Adjournment’ is a short break of a few hours or days and then the House resumes its sitting. 
• If the adjournment is done without any time scale, it is known as ‘adjournment sine die’.

How is a Parliament Session convened?

• The Constitution provides that the President shall from time to time summon each House of Parliament to meet at such time and place as he thinks fit. There should not be a gap of more than six months between two Sessions of the Parliament. 

 The fixation of dates of summoning and prorogation of the two Houses of Parliament is one of the functions assigned to the ministry of parliamentary affairs under the Government of India (Allocation of Business) Rules made by the President.

• After assessing the time likely to be required for transaction of government business and for discussion on topics of public interest as may be demanded from time to time by members of Parliament, the ministry of parliamentary affairs places a note before the Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs for making a recommendation as to the date of the commencement of a Session of Parliament and its likely duration. 
• The recommendation, if approved by the Prime Minister, is submitted by the ministry to the President for approval of the commencement of a Session.
•  The President summons the House exercising the powers conferred upon him by Article 85(1) of the Constitution.
• It states that: “The President shall from time to time summon each House of Parliament to meet at such time and place as he thinks fit, but six months shall not intervene between its last sitting in one session and the date appointed for its first sitting in the next session.”
• Following this, the Secretary-General issues a summons to each member of the House.