Current Affairs Compilations for UPSC IAS Prelims 2022

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 2

• Stop the fence-sitting in cluster bomb use
• Mediating, Minus Sarkar – on Mediation Bill
• Judged Half Right- House panel spot on for mandatory asset declaration for judges. Court vacations are a more complex issue
• Steps worth taking- Sound advice from Parliament on judicial reform
• Express View on Lancet TB study: Food for cure
• Bibek Debroy writes: BIMARU states are breaking poverty’s chains

GS Paper 3

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 2

Stop the fence-sitting in cluster bomb use

News: The decision by the United States to provide cluster munitions to Ukraine as part of a military aid package aimed at supporting Ukraine’s conflict with Russia has sparked controversy.

What are cluster bombs/munitions?

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Human Rights Watch claims that Russia deployed cluster bombs against Ukraine in cities like Kharkiv, causing civilian casualties and damaging homes, hospitals, and schools. Ukraine’s adoption of these weapons will exacerbate the situation.

Which international treaty prevents the use of cluster bombs?

The Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM), enacted in 2008, prohibits cluster bomb use, production, stockpiling, and transfer under Article 1. The convention also requires countries to destroy existing stockpiles of cluster munitions in their possession.

Countries are also legally bound to create victim support programs for cluster bomb survivors within their jurisdiction, ensuring aid and recovery.

However, the treaty isn’t universal; 112 nations, including several NATO members like Canada, Germany, France, and the UK, have joined the CCM.

Whereas, countries like the U.S., Russia, China, Israel, and India, along with Ukraine, have not ratified it.

Since both Russia and Ukraine are not signatories to CCM, it may be argued that they are not bound by any international law. However, there are other laws that prevent the use of cluster bombs.

Must Read: Explained: What are cluster bombs and thermobaric weapons, allegedly used by Russia against Ukrainians?

What are other international laws that prevent the use of cluster bombs?

An essential principle of customary international law (CIL) in times of war is the prohibition of indiscriminate attacks. This signifies that the application of force must be selective, targeting distinct military targets rather than civilians.

This CIL norm is codified in Article 51(4) of Additional Protocol I to the 1949 Geneva Conventions, which both Russia and Ukraine have ratified.

Another crucial principle of international humanitarian law applicable in this context is proportionality, which is codified in Article 51(5) of Additional Protocol I to the 1949 Geneva Conventions.

This rule forbids the disproportionate application of force that results in unintended harm to civilians or civilian structures, in comparison to the expected military advantages.

Is the US violating international law by supplying cluster bombs to Ukraine?

The US, not bound by CCM, doesn’t breach international law by providing cluster bombs. Moreover, the U.S.-made cluster bombs have a low rate of explosion compared to Russians. However, still, supplying such weapons is an irresponsible act.

What can be the way ahead?

Universal prohibition of cluster bomb usage, possession, transfer, and supply, as outlined in the CCM, requires global adherence. This requires all UN member nations to join the CCM and eliminate cluster bombs.

Mediating, Minus Sarkar – on Mediation Bill

News: The author discusses the new Mediation Bill passed in India, which formalizes and promotes mediation as a mainstream method for resolving disputes.

What are the main features of the Mediation Bill?

Recognition of Mediation: The bill recognizes mediation as a key method for resolving various disputes, from commercial to personal matters.

Definition: Mediation involves a neutral third person helping parties find an amicable settlement.

Types: Includes conciliation, community, and online mediation.

Mediation Agreement: Given the same status as a court judgment, harder to challenge than an arbitral award.

Online Mediation: Specific rules are provided for Online Mediation.

Mediation Council: Established with experienced members from mediation, law, government, and industry sectors.

Training & Service Providers: The bill acknowledges mediation institutes and service providers.

Community Mediation: Addressing local peace and harmony issues.

What are the benefits of the Mediation Bill?

Speedy Process: Mediation can be done within days to a few months, much faster than litigation.

Cost-Efficient: While now a profession, mediation remains less costly than court proceedings.

Active Participation: Disputants play a central role, unlike in adversarial processes.

Amicable Solutions: Focuses on practical agreements benefiting both parties rather than strictly legal verdicts.

Enforceability: Mediation agreements are easily enforced.

High Success Rate: Often sees success rates above 50%.

Support from Lawyers: Many lawyers appreciate mediation for its advantages and benefits to clients.

What are the limitations of the Mediation Bill?

Exclusions in Schedule: The bill has a lengthy list of cases not suitable for mediation. For instance, many disputes involving the government are excluded, indicating a preference for the state to continue litigations with citizens.

Ambiguous Provisions: Compoundable criminal offences are listed as non-mediatable, but another awkwardly drafted provision makes them mediatable.

Weak Language: Mandatory mediation before litigation is emphasized in soft terms, which might dilute its impact.

Section 49 Issue: There’s a significant loophole in Section 49, making it less stringent.

Absence of Practising Mediators: The Mediation Council lacks representatives from the current practicing mediators, which seems like an oversight.

Non-adherence to Singapore Convention: The bill doesn’t incorporate the Singapore Convention, which would have made enforcement of international commercial mediated settlements more accessible globally.

Over-Reliance on Mediators: The success of the bill heavily depends on the continuous efforts of mediators across the country.

Judged Half Right- House panel spot on for mandatory asset declaration for judges. Court vacations are a more complex issue

News: The House panel in India has recommended that Supreme Court and high court judges declare their assets annually. They have suggested replacing collective vacations with individual annual leaves, underlining the importance of quality over speedy justice.

What recommendations has the House panel made for the judiciary of India?

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice (House panel) has made the following recommendations for the judiciary of India:

1. Judges of the Supreme Court and high courts should declare their assets annually.
2. Replace the current system of court vacations with individual annual leaves for judges.

What are the main benefits of these recommendations?

Transparency and Accountability:

Mandating asset declaration would promote transparency in the judiciary.

Previous voluntary disclosures were limited, with the court’s website showing data only till March 2018 for 55 SC judges.

Efficiency and Speed:

Replacing collective vacations with individual leaves can lead to more working days.

The Supreme Court of India is already in session for 200 days, compared to the US’s 79 days, suggesting potential for quicker case disposal.

Quality Justice:

Despite the push for efficiency, there’s recognition that judges need breaks for reflection.

Pausing ensures verdicts are well thought out, maintaining the quality of justice.

Steps worth taking- Sound advice from Parliament on judicial reform

News: The author discusses a recent parliamentary report suggesting reforms in India’s judiciary. It emphasizes raising judges’ retirement age, reassessing post-retirement jobs, reducing court holidays, creating regional Supreme Court Benches, and improving diversity in the higher judiciary.

What are the reforms suggested by parliamentary report in India’s judiciary?

Suggested Reforms in India’s Judiciary:

1. Retirement Age: Raise the retirement age for judges. This addresses concerns about judges seeking post-retirement jobs funded by the public.
2. Post-retirement Jobs: Reassess post-retirement public appointments for judges. The current system gives the executive potential influence over judges’ futures.
3. Court Holidays: Reduce the long holidays of superior judiciary benches. Current long breaks limit litigants’ access to the higher courts.
4. Regional Supreme Court Benches: Establish Supreme Court Benches outside New Delhi. This addresses the high travel costs and language barriers for many Indians. For example, Travel to New Delhi is costly and arguing in non-local languages can be challenging for some Indians.
5. Diversity in Judiciary: Address the declining representation of marginalized communities in the higher judiciary. The court needs diversity to maintain public legitimacy.

What are the significance of these recommendations?

Enhanced Judicial Impartiality: Raising the retirement age can reduce judges’ dependence on post-retirement jobs. Less chance of executive influence on a judge’s decisions.

Increased Public Trust: By reassessing post-retirement jobs, public faith in unbiased judgments grows.

Improved Court Efficiency: Reducing court holidays ensures faster case resolution. Litigants will have better access to the courts.

Greater Access to Justice: Regional Supreme Court benches eliminates travel barriers. Litigants can argue in local languages, reducing linguistic challenges.

Promotion of Practical Federalism: Regional benches help in decentralizing the judicial system. More areas get representation and better judicial access, reflecting federal principles.

Representation and Legitimacy: More diverse judges ensure marginalized communities are represented. A diverse court enhances its legitimacy and reduces executive control in the appointment process.

Express View on Lancet TB study: Food for cure

News– Recently, a Lancet study underlines the need to improve nutrition of TB patients.

How undernutrition is the primary risk factor associated with tuberculosis?

The connection between diet and the illness is supported by the historical public health records of Europe and North America. The prevalence of TB notably declined when people began to consume better diets.

In India, modeling studies have indicated that addressing undernutrition can decrease TB cases by more than 70 percent.

A recent study published in the medical journal Lancet provides evidence that a nutritious diet reduces the occurrence of tuberculosis among vulnerable individuals and also diminishes mortality rates in TB patients.

This study, conducted in Jharkhand, reveals that early weight gain in individuals impacted by TB reduces the mortality risk by 60 percent.

Tuberculosis (TB) and the medications diminish the appetite of patients. Fever raises the rate at which calories are burned. In severe cases, the illness leads to “wasting” or low weight-for-height conditions.

A patient who has recovered from TB but continues to have a poor diet is at a significant risk of relapse.

What are some facts related to Nikshay Poshan Yojana?

The National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) has launched the Nikshay Poshan Yojana.

It provides Rs 500 per month to individuals diagnosed with TB. However, this amount is widely considered insufficient.

According to NTEP guidelines, a tuberculosis patient should ideally consume 2,800 calories daily.

Experts argue that eradicating TB necessitates enhancing the living conditions of patients and their families.

This program has encountered numerous systemic challenges.

A 2020 study published in the Indian Journal of Tuberculosis revealed that healthcare providers faced difficulties due to inadequate training and complicated reporting formats. It hinders the effective implementation of the scheme.

Moreover, limited patient awareness has also restricted the reach of the nutritional program.

Bibek Debroy writes: BIMARU states are breaking poverty’s chains

News– The article explain the prevalence of poverty rate in India as indicated by UNDP and NITI Aayog reports

What are various methods used in India to define and quantify poverty?

Traditionally, poverty has been identified as a percentage of the population living below a designated poverty line. It is known as the head-count ratio.

The currently recognized poverty line is still based on the Tendulkar measurement.

Due to the absence of National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) surveys on consumption expenditure beyond 2011-12, no head-count ratios are available after that period.

Over time, development economists have contended that poverty is a multi-faceted concept. There has been a transition to multidimensional poverty index (MDPI).

What are some facts about Muli-dimensional Poverty Index?

It relies on three key dimensions of poverty: health, education, and living standards.

Health metrics encompass aspects like nutrition, child and adolescent mortality, and maternal health, while education measures include years of schooling and school attendance.

Living standard encompasses factors like cooking fuel, sanitation, access to clean drinking water, electricity, housing, assets, and bank accounts.

What are poverty rates in India as per data provided by UNDP and NITI Aayog?

According to the UNDP report, around 415 million individuals transitioned out of poverty between 2005-06 and 2019-21, resulting in a reduction of poverty incidence from 55.1 percent to 16.4 percent.

As per UNDP report, the steepest declines in poverty have occurred in economically disadvantaged states.

However, it’s important to note that the UNDP’s report presents a national aggregate perspective for India, while the Niti Aayog report delves into regional and state-specific disparities.

The Niti Aayog report indicates a decrease in poverty rates from 24.85 percent in 2015-16 to 14.96 percent in 2019-21.

During this period, an estimated 135.5 million Indians were lifted out of poverty. Within this group, Uttar Pradesh alone accounted for 34.3 million individuals.

How have BIMARU states performed well in poverty reduction?

Many years ago, demographer Ashish Bose introduced the acronym BIMARU to represent the then-undivided states of Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.

BIMARU served as a symbolic representation of the various issues that plagued India during that time.

India’s overall development, employment situation, and poverty alleviation efforts are significantly influenced by the conditions prevailing in these states. This is primarily due to their substantial populations, as well as the extensive poverty levels.

The report from Niti Aayog reveals that the most rapid declines in poverty rates were observed in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Rajasthan.

Specifically, Bihar’s poverty rate has now reached 33.8 percent, Madhya Pradesh at 20.6 percent, Odisha at 15.7 percent, and Rajasthan at 15.3 percent.

Uttar Pradesh’s poverty rate stands at 22.9 percent, having started from a baseline of 37.7 percent in 2015-16.

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That ’70s show – Proposed licensing for computing devices’ imports dents India’s credibility

News: The Commerce and Industry Ministry of India implemented abrupt restrictions on imports of laptops, PCs, tablets, and servers, necessitating importers to acquire licenses.

This action prompted worries about supply chain disruptions, possible scarcities, and increasing prices.

Why did the government impose restrictions?

The government cited security reasons for the decision as imported devices could be utilized for surveillance, similar to the potential for spyware in mobile phones.

This move will also encourage IT hardware manufacturers to establish production facilities in India through a production-linked incentive scheme.

However, due to the complex nature of PC component value chains, these plans faced criticism and raised fears of impacting India’s software and IT-enabled services exports.

Hence, the government postponed the restrictions until November 1, assuring quicker license approvals.

What are the concerns with imposing restrictions?

While the government claims quick license issuance, this situation brings back memories of India’s earlier IT industry stages (1970s and 1980s), causing unease among industry players until the licensing rules clarify.

If concerns about security are arising due to PC and tablet imports from China, the government could enforce testing requirements to ensure the safety of shipments.

Whereas, if the goal is to encourage investments, it becomes challenging to force major global players into making substantial investments when they have more convenient business options elsewhere.

Therefore, such restrictions might increase costs and limit device choices, impacting Indian consumers and hindering digital access to government services.

Must Read: Express View on restrictions on laptop imports: Licence raj dot com

What lies ahead?

This situation, along with recent policies like the 28% GST on gaming bets and the freeze on prices of ‘deregulated’ petroleum products, is worrying for investors.

Hence, India’s reform narrative might be derailed by unpredictable policies, exorbitant taxes, and a return to maximum government.

How sweet is India’s spot? – on economic policies of India

News: In this article, the author discusses India’s strong economic recovery and growth prospects. He emphasized the need for fiscal reforms, improved trade policies, better education, and increased private investment. The article also highlights India’s geopolitical position, benefiting from US-China tensions, but warns against over-reliance on such advantages.

About India’s Economic growth

Recovery Rate: Bounced back from a 6.6% GDP slump in FY21 to 9.1% and 7.2% in the subsequent years.

Exports: Goods exports rose in 2021 and 2022, while service exports remain strong despite recent slowdowns.

Digital Boom: Expanding digital infrastructure facilitates smoother nationwide transactions. It has facilitated low-cost transactions nationwide, which aids in the delivery of expanded government direct benefit programs.

Government Initiatives: Increased spending on roads and infrastructure, aiding growth.

Monetary Policy: RBI’s restrictive stance for 15 months has lowered inflation below 6%.  Correction in commodity prices (but not tomatoes), also contributed.

Growth projections: The government and RBI project 6.5% growth in FY24.

A recent RBI paper stated India needs 7.6%-9.1% growth to be considered a developed country by 2047.

Where does India stand Geopolitically?

India has strengthened ties with the US and its allies, remaining neutral in the Russo-Ukraine war.

India benefits from US-China tensions but should be cautious about relying on it.

How has government spending affected the Indian economy?

Infrastructure Boost: There is a noticeable strengthening of physical infrastructure, especially roads. This has been a result of increased government capex (capital expenditure).

Banking Stability: Banks and companies’ balance sheets have improved significantly, permitting more lending and borrowing.

What challenges is the Indian economy facing?

Fiscal Concerns: Fiscal deficits and government debt levels are high. Debt/GDP ratio stands at 80%, surpassing the recommended (by the N K Singh report on fiscal responsibility) 60% target.

Despite resolving the “twin balance sheet problem”, a resurgence in private investment is still awaited.

Export Slump: Despite a surge in 2021 and 2022, goods exports experienced a recent decline.

International Trade Policies: Recent trade decisions, like increased tariffs since 2016, have been counterproductive. India’s late-stage withdrawal from the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) in 2019 was a setback.

Resurgence of import licensing restrictions, evident in sectors like laptops are not good for industrial growth.

Social issues: Low learning outcomes in government schools require urgent attention. Improvement needed to cater to a skill-intensive global economy.

Concerning stats like female labor participation rates and youth unemployment compared to East Asian countries.

What actions should be taken to address them?

Fiscal Reforms: Reduce fiscal deficits and target a debt/GDP ratio closer to the recommended 60%.

Trade Policy Revamp: Roll back the recent increase in customs tariffs. Consider re-engaging with at least one of the two Asian mega regional free trade agreements (FTAs). Remove unnecessary import licensing restrictions.

Educational Improvements: Leverage digital infrastructure to boost learning outcomes in government schools.

Boosting Exports: Enhance participation in global value chains by joining regional free trade agreements.

Investment Climate: Ensure policy stability and transparency to attract more domestic and foreign investments.

Social Harmony: Prioritize justice, law and order to encourage a conducive business environment.

Gender sensitivity works in favour of economic growth

News– The article deals with this issue of sexual harassment of women at workplaces

What are some facts and statistics related to the prevalence of sexual harassment at workplaces across the world?

According to a global survey conducted by ILO in 2022, over one in five individuals employed have faced various forms of violence and harassment at their workplaces.

A study that examined gender equality laws across 193 countries discovered that sexual harassment can occur at any stage of employment and spans across different geographical regions and occupations.

Research further suggests that in the majority of cases (72%), the harassment is done by individuals occupying people in senior positions.

Instances of harassment do impact men. But, women are more than twice as likely to experience gender-based harassment and sexual abuse.

What are the impacts of sexual harassment of women at workplace?

The #MeToo movement  underscores the detrimental consequences of such harassment on women’s economic prospects.

The impact of sexual harassment results in a substantial economic setback.

75% of approximately 2.7 billion women aged 18 and above, along with an estimated 600 million men have fallen victim to this issue.

Research conducted by Chamie in 2018 estimated the overall financial consequences of this problem at approximately $2.8 billion.

For individual women affected by this phenomenon, lifetime financial losses were projected to range from $600,000 to over $1.3 million. It is  indicated by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research and Time’s UP Foundation in 2021.

Furthermore, the long-term repercussions encompass depressive disorders, reduced engagement, premature departures from jobs, and hindrances in career progression.

What are challenges in dealing with sexual harassment at workplaces?

The instances of workplace sexual harassment are significantly underreported. It is primarily due to concerns about potential reprisals or a perception that addressing the issue won’t yield positive outcomes.

The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission noted that a majority of harassed employees from 1995 to 2016 did not report the incidents.

Similarly, a 2017 BBC survey revealed that over half of the victims chose not to disclose their experiences.

In 2021, the number of countries offering some level of protection against retaliation increased to 103.

Despite these advancements, women of working age across the Middle East and North Africa, as well as half in East Asia and the Pacific, and one-third in Latin America and the Caribbean still have no legal protection.

What are the steps taken by various countries to address this issue?

Some nations have introduced legislation aimed at limiting the utilization of confidentiality or non-disclosure agreements. It can be employed to suppress victims’ voices.

Certain US states have implemented new sexual harassment prevention policies. Hong Kong has recently broadened the scope of protection through a revised code of practice.

In the UK, there is now a legal obligation for employers to prevent harassment. It is backed by a statutory code of conduct.

Even major corporations like Microsoft have established dedicated employee advocacy teams.

What is the situation in India?

India has a codified legislation, known as the PoSH Act. However, this law has faced criticism for addressing violence against women in a fragmented manner.

Moreover, the Act has had limited impact on the extensive female workforce in the country’s informal sector.

A recent online survey by BBC indicated that over 52% of Indian women and girls surveyed had declined educational and job opportunities due to feelings of insecurity.

Researchers have previously estimated that India’s GDP could potentially rise to nearly $6 trillion by 2050 if the existing employment gap of 58 percentage points between men and women is eliminated (Bloomberg Economics).

In 2019, the ILO adopted a landmark international treaty (C190) on violence and harassment at work, India voted for it in 2019, but is yet to ratify it.

Seeds for growth: How technology can boost Indian agriculture

News– The article explains the issues related to the seed industry in India and suggests solutions for development of better seed varieties.

What are the challenges faced by Indian agriculture?

There remains an unmet demand for coarse cereals, pulses, oilseeds, and vegetables. These essential food items are not affordable for a significant portion of the population. As a result, a substantial proportion of the population is undernourished.

Diminishing natural resources, a growing population, severe weather patterns, and climate-related natural calamities present significant obstacles to Indian and regional agriculture.

How has the seed industry evolved in India?

The foundation of the Indian seed industry was solidified during the 1960s with the establishment of the National Seeds Corporation. It gained further momentum through supportive policies and regulations introduced in the late 1980s.

Significant developments such as the enactment of the Protection of Plant Varieties & Farmers Rights Act in 2001 and the introduction of Bt cotton hybrids for commercial cultivation in 2002 has taken place. It has marked the transition to a technology-driven era in the seed sector.

The Indian seed market has expanded to an estimated value of $4.0 to $6.0 billion.

What is the importance of seeds?

The key factors determining agricultural profitability includes input costs like seeds, fertilisers, pesticides, along with expenses related to land, labour, and water.

Seed costs typically account for around 3 to 6 percent of the total production expenses. Yet, they can contribute to a yield advantage of 15-20 percent beyond the genetic potential.

What is the way forward for the seed industry in India?

Crop variety development can be achieved by leveraging techniques such as molecular technologies, speed breeding, and gene-editing tools. The effective use of applied seed technologies will guarantee optimal functionality.

Hence, contemporary seed technology should combine genetic advancements with applied methodologies to produce enhanced seed varieties capable of withstanding biological and environmental challenges.

These technologies would comprise: Genetic manipulation in variety development; priming or physiological advancement protocols; film coating, pelleting with or without active formulations; seed treatments with biologicals, or chemical pesticides having contact or systemic mode of action; bio-stimulants and nutrients for higher germination and faster seedling establishment; etc.

Most of these technologies are in commercial use globally, and some have been introduced in India.

A robust regulatory mechanism that includes quality seedlings and planting materials is needed under the newly proposed “Clean Green Mission” by the Government of India.

Supportive regulatory guidelines will play a crucial role in facilitating the adoption of seed technologies.

The Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic, or Mixed) (Control Order, 1985) has been updated to the Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic, or Mixed) (Control) Amendment Order, 2021, which now incorporates bio-stimulants as a vital element in seed-enhancement technology.

Furthermore, adjustments are required to include coated or pelleted seeds within the Certified Seed (CS) category.

Coated seeds are currently only permitted to be sold as Truthfully Labelled (TL) seeds. Film coating is widely recognized for its farmer-friendly attributes and has capacity to decrease pesticide application by as much as one-tenth,

In the past 10 to 15 years, a positive trend of public-private collaboration, facilitated by licensing agreements, has emerged.

This collaboration has effectively promoted various open-pollinated and hybrid varieties. As a result, there have been improvements in both Variety Replacement Rates and Seed Replacement Rates in field crops and vegetables.

Given this context, sustainable seed technologies accessible from the private sector can further enhance the value derived from seed planting.

Therefore, the research and development efforts of both public and private sectors can mutually complement each other in crafting environmentally friendly and high-performing seeds that remain affordable.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Defence Ministry to switch to locally built OS Maya amid threats

Source: The post is based on the article “Defence Ministry to switch to locally built OS Maya amid threats”  published in The Hindu on 8th August 2023.

What is the News?

The Defence Ministry has decided to replace the Microsoft Operating System (OS) in all computers connected to the Internet with the Maya Operating System(OS).

What is Maya Operating System(OS)?

Maya OS is a new operating system that is based on Ubuntu, a popular Linux distribution that uses free and open-source software. 

Developed by: Ministry of Defence Ministry with the help of various government agencies, including the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), and the National Informatics Centre (NIC).

Advantages: One of the main advantages of Maya OS is that it has a similar interface and functionality as Windows, making it easy for users to adapt to it. 

– It also has a feature called Chakravyuh which is an end-point anti-malware and antivirus software that creates a virtual layer between the user and the internet, blocking hackers from accessing sensitive data.

What is Ubuntu?

Ubuntu is a popular Linux operating system known for its strong security. It’s considered more secure than Windows because it has fewer vulnerabilities and malware issues. 

Ubuntu is also distributed as free and open-source software, which means that anyone can inspect, modify, and improve its code. This allows Ubuntu to benefit from the collective efforts of thousands of developers and users who contribute to its development and security. 

It also has built-in security features like a firewall, strict user permissions, and regular updates to guard against threats.

What is the significance of using Maya OS?

India’s critical infrastructure has seen numerous cyberattacks and security breaches in recent years. Some of the most notable incidents include the cyberattack on Kudankulum Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP) in 2019, the Mumbai Power Grid outage in 2020, the ransomware attacks on Oil India Limited and Spice Jet servers in 2022, and the Goa Flood Monitoring System hack.

Hence, using an indigenous operating system could not only be a promising step towards securing India’s vital computer systems from malicious actors, but also reduce the country’s reliance on foreign software and enhance its cyber resilience.

Story of the Assam Rifles, against whom Manipur Police have filed an FIR

Source: The post is based on the article “Story of the Assam Rifles, against whom Manipur Police have filed an FIR”  published in Indian Express on 10th August 2023.

What is the News?

Manipur Police have registered a criminal case against the Assam Rifles for obstruction of duty and criminal intimidation.

The police have accused the personnel of the Assam Rifles of the arrogant act of giving a chance to the accused Kuki militants to escape freely to a safe zone.

What are Assam Rifles?

The Assam Rifles are a central armed police force. It is one of the six central armed police forces(CAPFs) under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). 

The other five forces are the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).

Role: Assam Rifles are tasked with maintaining law and order in the Northeast along with the Indian Army. It also guards the Indo-Myanmar border.

Historical Background: Assam Rifles is India’s oldest paramilitary force. It was formed in 1835 as a militia called the ‘Cachar Levy’ to primarily protect British Tea estates and their settlements against tribal raids.

Contributions: Since its formation in 1835, Assam Rifles has gone on to fight in two World Wars, the Sino-Indian war of 1962.

– The Post-Independence role of the Assam Rifles continued to evolve ranging from conventional combat role during Sino-India War 1962, operating in foreign land as part of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) to Sri Lanka in 1987 (Op Pawan) to peacekeeping role in the North-Eastern areas of India.

– Hence, it remains the most awarded paramilitary force in both pre- and post-independent India.

Dual Control: Assam Rifles is the only paramilitary force with a dual control structure. While the administrative control of the force is with the Ministry of Home Affairs(MHA). But its operational control is with the Indian Army, which is under the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

– This means that salaries and infrastructure for the force is provided by the MHA, but the deployment, posting, transfers, and deputation of AR personnel is decided by the Army. All its senior ranks, from DG to IG and sector headquarters are manned by officers from the Army. The force is commanded by a Lieutenant General of the Indian Army.

Demand of Assam Rifles: A large section within the Assam Rifles wants to be under the administrative control of the MoD as that would mean perks and retirement benefits that are far better than those enjoyed by the CAPFs under MHA. However, Army personnel retire early — at age 35 — while the retirement age of CAPFs is 60 years.

How National Green Hydrogen Mission seeks to Reduce Cost of Green Hydrogen

Source: The post is based on the article “How National Green Hydrogen Mission seeks to Reduce Cost of Green Hydrogen”  published in PIB on 9th August 2023.

What is the News?

The Union Minister for New & Renewable Energy has informed Lok Sabha about the steps taken to promote Green Hydrogen.

How is Green Hydrogen produced?

Green Hydrogen can be produced through electrolysis of water using renewable electricity, and from biomass through thermochemical and biochemical routes.

The costs of the electrolysers and input renewable energy are the two major components of Green Hydrogen production cost. 

At present, there is very limited production of Hydrogen through renewable sources in the country. 

Several entities have announced plans to set up production facilities for Green Hydrogen/Green Ammonia in India. However, these are still at a preliminary stage.

What is the National Green Hydrogen Mission?

Aim: To make India a Global Hub for production, usage and export of Green Hydrogen and its derivatives. 

Components: The following components have been announced as part of the Mission:

– Facilitating demand creation through exports and domestic utilization;

– Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) programme. The programme comprises two distinct financial incentive mechanisms to support domestic manufacturing of electrolysers and production of Green Hydrogen;

– Pilot Projects for green steel, mobility, shipping, decentralized energy applications, hydrogen production from biomass, hydrogen storage, etc.;

– Development of Green Hydrogen Hubs; Support for infrastructure development;

— Establishing a robust framework of regulations and standards; Research & Development programme; Skill development programme; and Public awareness and outreach programme.

What are the expected benefits of the National Green Hydrogen Mission?

Firstly, it is expected to lead to development of 5 MMT (Million Metric Tonne) Green Hydrogen production capacity per annum by 2030, contributing to reduction in dependence on import of fossil fuels.

Secondly, achievement of Mission targets is expected to reduce a cumulative ₹ 1 lakh crore worth of fossil fuel imports by 2030.This is likely to leverage over ₹8 lakh crore in total investments and create over 6 lakh jobs.

Thirdly, nearly 50 MMT per annum of CO2 emissions are expected to be averted through production and use of the targeted quantum of Green Hydrogen.

Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment ) Bill, 2023 clear by both Houses of Parliament of India

Source: The post is based on the article “Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment ) Bill, 2023 cleared by both Houses of Parliament of India”  published in PIB on 9th August 2023.

What is the News?

The Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment ) Bill, 2023 has been passed by both Houses of the Parliament of India.

What is the Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment ) Bill,2023?

The Bill amends the Coastal Aquaculture Authority Act, 2005.

The bill seeks to expand the scope, remove regulatory gaps and reduce the compliance burden without diluting environmental protection rules in the coastal areas.

What are the key provisions of the bill?

Regulation of allied activities:  The Act regulates coastal aquaculture farms. This includes culturing shrimp, prawn fish or other aquatic life in a controlled environment along coastal areas in saline or brackish water.  

– The Bill allows regulation of allied activities such as nucleus breeding centres and hatcheries. 

– Note: Nucleus breeding centres are those where fish/shrimp are cultivated at the larvae stage of their life cycle.

Some Allied activities in protected areas: The Act prohibits coastal aquaculture in certain areas, such as 200 metres within the High Tide Line and in creeks/backwaters within the CRZ.   

– The Bill amends this to allow some allied activities in protected areas. For instance: (i) activities like nucleus breeding centers will be permitted to operate in no development zones, and (ii) activities like seaweed culture will be permitted in creeks/backwaters within the CRZ.  

Coastal Aquaculture Authority:  Under the Act, functions of the Authority include: (i) regulating construction and operation of aquaculture farms, (ii) registering coastal aquaculture farms, and (iii) demolishing polluting farms. 

– The Bill adds that the Authority shall: (i) fix standards for inputs and discharge of effluents from aquaculture units, (ii) prohibit the use of certain inputs to prevent harm to the environment, and (iii) monitor and regulate units, inputs, and emissions.

Penalties:  The Act penalizes unregistered farms or farms in prohibited areas, with imprisonment up to three years and/or a fine of one lakh rupees.  

– The Bill replaces this and specifies that if coastal aquaculture is carried out illegally: (i) the activity may be suspended, (ii) structure may be removed, (iii) crop may be destroyed, (iv) the registration may be canceled, and/or (v) a penalty may be imposed.

Scientists design first-ever 2D composite quantum material useful for spintronic devices like transistors & diodes

Source: The post is based on the article “Scientists design first-ever 2D composite quantum material useful for spintronic devices like transistors & diodes”  published on Department of Science and Technology’s website.

What is the News?

A group of scientists has used computer simulations to design a new type of quantum material. This material has a unique property called Rashba splitting, which is important for spintronic devices. 

What is Spintronics?

Spintronics is one of the emerging fields for the next-generation nanoelectronic devices to reduce their power consumption and to increase their memory and processing capabilities. 

Such devices take advantage of electron spin, a quantum property of electrons, to achieve higher performance.

Some of the examples of spintronic devices are spin transistors, spin diodes, and spin filters.

What have the researchers developed?

Researchers have created composite 2-D quantum materials showing two different quantum properties, Rashba effect  (a momentum-dependent splitting of spin bands) and nonlinear anomalous Hall effect (arising from anomalous velocity of the electrons) in the same material.

The designed material could help overcome limitations in current spintronic devices and lead to better performance in areas like quantum computing and communication.

Number of elephants in Karnataka goes up by 364 from last count, touches 6,395

Source: The post is based on the article “Number of elephants in Karnataka goes up by 364 from last count, touches 6,395”  published in The Hindu on 10th August 2023.

What is the News?

Karnataka Minister of Forests has released an interim report on Asian Elephant Population and Demography Estimates, 2023. 

The report has been prepared after a synchronized elephant census was conducted by the Forest Department in collaboration with neighboring Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Goa.

What are the key findings of the Asian Elephant Population and Demography Estimates, 2023?

Number of elephants: The number of wild elephants in Karnataka has increased to 6,395 this year from 6,049 in 2017.

– In 2010, the projected number was 5,740.It stood at 6,072 in 2012 before the dip in 2017.

– However, out of the total 6,395 elephants estimated, around 161 were within private lands like coffee estates which pose conservation challenges.

Elephant density: Karnataka has an average elephant density of 0.34 per sq. km. 

– Bandipur Tiger Reserve with 1,116 elephants accounted for the highest density of 0.96 per sq. km followed by Nagarahole Tiger Reserve that has 831 elephants with a density of 0.93.

House panel tells govt. to ensure fertilizer availability, increase local production

Source: The post is based on the article “House panel tells govt. to ensure fertilizer availability, increase local production”  published in The Hindu on 9th August 2023.

What is the News?

The Standing Committee of Parliament on Chemicals and Fertilizers has posed questions on the availability of fertilizers and a subsidy policy.

What are the suggestions given by the Standing Committee of Parliament on Chemicals and Fertilizers?

Firstly, the committee has highlighted concerns about India’s reliance on imported fertilizers like urea, DAP, MOP, NPK, and others. 

– The production of these fertilizers was 281.83 lakh metric tonnes but the consumption was higher at 401.46 LMT resulting in a deficit of 119.63 LMT which is worrisome.

Secondly, the committee wants the Department of Fertilizers to investigate fertilizer shortages in some states and ensure availability across all states. 

– They suggest reviewing the nutrient-based subsidy (NBS) policy that currently excludes urea. This means that urea remains under price control whereas technically there is no price control in other fertilisers, causing disincentives for other fertilizers. 

Thirdly, the committee also pointed out the discrepancy in GST rates, with fertilizers at 5% and raw materials like sulphuric acid and ammonia at 18%. 

– They recommend lowering the GST on raw materials and including natural gas in the GST to avoid double taxation.

Fourthly, to counter international price fluctuations, the committee proposes purchase policy reforms and long-term import contracts for various fertilizers and raw materials.

Launch of Indian Web Browser Development Challenge (IWBDC)

Source: The post is based on the article “Launch of Indian Web Browser Development Challenge (IWBDC)”  published in PIB on 9th August 2023.

What is the News?

The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) has launched the Indian Web Browser Development Challenge (IWBDC).

What is the Indian Web Browser Development Challenge (IWBDC)?

IWBDC is an open challenge competition that seeks to inspire and empower technology enthusiasts, innovators, and developers from all corners of the country to create an indigenous web browser.

The competition offers cash prizes totaling ₹3.4 crore to developers who create an indigenous web browser.

However, there is a condition that the browser ideas must trust the Indian government’s Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), which handles digital signatures and SSL certificates.

What are SSL Certificates?

SSL certificates are used to encrypt websites and to make sure that browsers know that a website is not being modified or impersonated by attackers. 

Browsers trust these certificates if they are issued by a certifying authority that is in turn trusted by a ‘root certifying authority’.

India does not have a root certifying authority trusted by major browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox and Microsoft Edge.

This has led to a situation where the government operates a root certifying authority that is legally valid under Indian law — the Root Certifying Authority of India, set up in 2000 under the CCA — but the certificates issued under its purview are largely not recognised by Web browsers.

Due to this, Indian government and private websites need to purchase SSL certificates from foreign certifying authorities.

Plight of the vaquita forces International Whaling Commission to issue first extinction alert

Source: The post is based on the article “Plight of the vaquita forces International Whaling Commission to issue first extinction alert”  published in Down to Earth on 7th August 2023.

What is the News?

The International Whaling Commission(IWC) has issued its first ‘extinction alert’ on the Vaquita Porpoise.

What is Vaquita Porpoise?

Vaquita Porpoise is the world’s smallest cetacean. It is also known as the “panda of the sea” for the distinctive black circles around its eyes, along with a proportionally large dorsal fin.

The vaquita is unique among the porpoises as it is the only species of that family found in warm waters.

A dark ring around the eyes is its most striking feature, along with a proportionally large dorsal fin. 

Found in: It is only found in the northern-most part of the Gulf of California, Mexico. 

IUCN Status: Critically Endangered

CITES: Appendix I

Declining population: The vaquita population has been declining continuously for decades due to bycatch in gillnet set to catch shrimp and fish including totoaba.

– Its numbers have fallen from a population of approximately 570 in 1997 to around 10 animals in 2018.

What are Porpoises?

Porpoises are among the smallest members of the cetacean family (whales, porpoises and dolphins). 

They are only distant relatives of dolphins (they last had a common ancestor roughly 15 million years ago).There are only seven species of porpoise; the most popular being the widely distributed harbour porpoise.

The following today’s current affairs articles have been covered in 7 PM Explained section of the day:

7 PM Editorial of the day: Small Modular Reactors: Explained, pointwise