Current Affairs Compilations for UPSC IAS Prelims 2022

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 2

• Expanding powers – The registration Bill is as draconian as the old one
• Blessed By Beijing – China’s propaganda war is well funded and waged subtly. Centre and states must coordinate”
• Neither the right to privacy nor the right to information
• Consumers can look forward to an era of data privacy
• Command and control- Changes in the law will affect IMs’ autonomy

GS Paper 3

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 2

Expanding powers – The registration Bill is as draconian as the old one

News: Recently, the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023 was passed in the Rajya Sabha. It repeals the Press and Registration of Books, 1867.

What are some of the provisions of the Bill?

The Bill simplifies the registration process, excludes scientific and academic journals from its purview, and decriminalizes the offence of filing improper information.

What are the concerns with the Bill?

First, the legislation grants an excessive amount of authority to the press registrar general, a government-appointed official.

Under Sections 4(1) and 11(4) of the Bill, the registrar general is empowered to deny approval or revoke the registration certificate of any owner or publisher who has been convicted by a court for engaging in “terrorist or unlawful activity” or “having done anything against the security of the State”.

Both Sections specify that the definitions of “terrorist act” and “unlawful activities” are outlined in specific clauses of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967.

However, these terms are phrased in such a way that they can be interpreted broadly or narrowly at the discretion of the authorities.

This brings a sense of ambiguity and makes it possible for any news publication to have its registration cancelled if the registrar general deems it unfit.

Second, the Bill allows the registrar general to enter premises to verify information.

Third, it also allows the registrar general to appoint other agencies to monitor a publication’s functions.

Fourth, the Bill grants the government the authority to establish regulations governing the practice of news publishing.

This has been done to align with the government’s establishment of a “fact-checking unit” as per the Information Technology Rules of 2021, which gives the powers to order content to be taken down.

What can be the way ahead?

The government should refer the Bill to a committee for deeper deliberations before the Lok Sabha passes it because in its current form, it cannot be described as an exemplar of Indian democracy in practice.

Blessed By Beijing – China’s propaganda war is well funded and waged subtly. Centre and states must coordinate”

News: An NY Times investigation has exposed a complex network of Chinese influence operations worldwide, raising security concerns for India.

What are the findings of the investigation?

The investigation reveals that American millionaire Neville Roy Singham is allegedly linked to the Chinese Communist Party’s propaganda efforts.

Singham’s non-profits have funded various entities, including think tanks, political parties, and media abroad, which promote CCP messaging. In India, Singham’s network is believed to have supported a news website.

The goal is to shape a positive image of China by establishing networks for generating news, providing false information, and providing funding for seemingly harmless public initiatives.

For instance, Taiwan has recently begun identifying Chinese-sponsored beautification initiatives in its regions.

While these funds are channeled through a contest organized by China’s Fujian province, the underlying objective is to exert cultural influence on the Taiwanese population.

Therefore, given China’s massive resources, similar influence operations might be attempted against India.

What measures can be adopted by India?

India has an administrative structure where different components often lack effective communication. Moreover, a notable portion of the population remains underemployed or receives low wages. These factors create openings for Beijing to exploit India’s weaknesses.

Hence, the Indian government needs to be more watchful of China’s secret plans, work closely with state governments, and use this as a reason to boost the economy.

Neither the right to privacy nor the right to information

News– Recently, Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Bill 2023 was introduced in Parliament.

What is the interrelationship between right to privacy and right to information?

In 2017, a nine-judge Constitutional bench of the Supreme Court reaffirmed the right to privacy. This landmark decision set an international standard.

The recently introduced DPDP Bill 2023 emerged from the discussions around the right to privacy.

The right to information ensures access to government documents to uphold government transparency and accountability. This law has played a pivotal role in strengthening democratic practices.

These two rights mutually complement each other. However, certain tensions exist between the right to information and the right to privacy.

For instance, under the MGNREGA, mandatory disclosure regulations ensure that workers can oversee expenditures and facilitate public oversight through social audits.

This implies that data about individuals registered under the Act are accessible to everyone.

What are issues with the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Bill 2023?

Data protection- The Bill’s purpose is to establish protocols for processing digital personal data. It acknowledges both individuals’ right to safeguard their personal data and the necessity of processing such data for lawful objectives.

According to Section 4(2), “lawful purposes” is defined in the broadest sense. It can be for any purpose which is not expressly forbidden by the law.

This means that activities like extracting data on worker’s wages or pension payments are permitted since they are “not expressly forbidden.”

Section 36 empowers the central government to request information from the Board, data fiduciaries, or other sources as needed. Sections 4(2) and 36 combined make our data accessible to both government and private entities.

Undermining RTI– Section 8(1)(j) allows for exemption from disclosure. It is provided when personal information has no relationship to any public activity or interest, or it would lead to unwarranted invasion of the privacy of the individual.

This standard sets a high threshold for exemption. It asserts that information which cannot be denied to the Parliament or a State Legislature shall not be denied to any person.

The DPDP Bill 2023 proposes substituting Section 8(1)(j) with merely “information which relates to personal information.”

This modification threatens the integrity of the RTI 2005. For instance, the current requirement for public servants to disclose their immovable assets could be impacted. Although this information is personal, it serves a broader public interest.

Data Protection Board– It will be effectively controlled by the government. The chairperson and members are appointed by the central government.

In Europe, the General Data Protection Regulation established a rigorous standard for data protection. It creates a robust oversight body in a society characterized by universal literacy and high levels of digital and financial literacy.

Literacy issues– India has the absence of widespread literacy and inadequate digital and financial literacy, along with an overwhelmed legal system. The likelihood of citizens being able to seek legal remedies in cases of privacy violations is minimal.

What should be done to increase the efficacy of data protection board?

It should demonstrate promptness in addressing instances of personal data breach that lead to consumer complaints.

Secondly, it should enact a fundamental transformation by eliminating the avenues for evading responsibility that were previously available.

It should not get entangled in the intricacies of data controllers, data processors, and data brokers. Rather, it should focus on holding the entity that initially receives consumer information accountable.

It should act swiftly in imposing and collecting penalties, which may include fines that can escalate to ₹250 crore and beyond.

Why has data protection become crucial?

Every day, through our online activities, we are generating data. This involves tasks ranging from managing our finances and settling utility bills to purchasing groceries, insurance, and even booking appointments with doctors, flights, or hotels.

There is unrestricted circulation of our data, as it gets passed along without limitations.

For instance, immediately after visiting a car-related website, we are inundated with phone calls, text messages, and social media intrusions attempting to persuade us to buy cars. This underscores the deep connection between financial and sovereign identity data.

Consumers can look forward to an era of data privacy

News– Recently, Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Bill 2023 was introduced in Parliament.

How will draft data protection be beneficial for Indian citizens?

It has the potential to reshape consumer behaviours and their attitudes towards the businesses they engage with.

Consumers are likely to become more cautious and attentive when it comes to the collection, processing, and storage of their personal data by businesses.

The Bill now offers an increased level of control to consumers over their personal data. It enables them to provide or withdraw consent for specific purposes of data processing.

This provision ensures that consumers are fully informed about the ways in which their data will be utilised. Thus, it enhances transparency in the data practices of businesses.

Consumers will have the ability to exercise various other rights concerning their personal data. These include the right to know what data is held by a Data Fiduciary, how it is utilised, and with whom it is shared.

Consumers can also request corrections to their stored information or even request its removal. These rights are not restricted to consumers alone. They can also be exercised by a designated individual in the event of the data subject’s death or incapacity.

The new privacy framework will also establish provisions for addressing grievances. It enables consumers to seek remedies in cases of data breaches or unauthorised data processing. Consumers can approach the Data Protection Board.

It will bring relief from unwanted communications such as spam emails and telemarketing calls. The intrusive marketing messages are expected to diminish.

This change is expected to transform the landscape of direct marketing. Ultimately, consumers will benefit from a personalised interaction with companies that engage in marketing their products and services.

What will be its impact on rural areas ?

Language need not be a barrier for non-English-speaking consumers. The Bill has incorporated a provision for privacy notices to be available not only in English but also in other languages mentioned in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.

The envisaged Data Protection Board will act as a ‘digital office’ for rural inhabitants. They often face limited access to legal remedies in contrast to urban dwellers.

It has the potential to significantly impact people’s lives once they comprehend the importance of securing their personal data.

Way forward-

This legislation holds the potential to serve as a potent tool for nurturing digital empowerment and inclusivity across the entire nation.

Individuals across all age groups, including children, youth, middle-aged individuals, and senior citizens, should be educated about the key aspects of the Bill.

Efforts to raise awareness must encompass all socio-economic strata in both rural and urban areas of India.

Data Fiduciaries must adhere to their newfound legal obligations, especially in rapidly evolving technological domains.

Command and control- Changes in the law will affect IMs’ autonomy

News: The article discusses recent changes in the Indian Institute of Management (Amendment) Bill, 2023, which gives the Indian government more control over the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). This raises concerns about the institutes’ autonomy and potential interference in their functioning.

What are the major changes in the Indian Institute of Management (Amendment) Bill, 2023?

Director’s Appointment: Earlier, the board of governors (BOG) chose the IIM director based on recommendations. Now, they need approval from the “visitor”, the President of India.

Search Committee: A member nominated by the visitor will be part of the director search committee.

Chairperson’s Nomination: Previously, the board chose the chairperson. Now, the President will nominate them.

Visitor’s Powers: The visitor can initiate inquiries in IIMs and issue binding directives based on findings.

Board Suspension: The government can set conditions for suspending or dissolving an IIM’s board.

What are its implications?

Government Influence: The government gains significant control over IIMs, especially in the appointment of key roles like directors and chairpersons.

Potential Interference: While the government claims no intention to interfere, the new powers could allow future intrusions into IIM operations.

Autonomy Concerns: The 2017 law prioritized IIM autonomy, but these changes might reverse that, potentially hindering IIMs’ adaptability and efficiency.

What should be done?

Preserve Autonomy: Maintain the operational independence of IIMs, as it allows them to adapt quickly and effectively.

Clear Intent: The government should clearly communicate its intentions, ensuring no undue interference in the IIMs’ functioning.

Performance Reviews: Reinforce the need for independent reviews every three years to boost quality and encourage competition among IIMs.

Address Functional Issues: While ensuring autonomy, address issues related to director appointments and other functional areas that weren’t handled well previously.

Balance: Establish a balance between autonomy and accountability, making sure IIMs use their independence constructively.

Focus on Excellence: Any change should prioritize IIMs’ mission of offering top-tier management education and research.

GS Paper 3

India’s mining policy shift

News– Recently, Parliament passed the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2023, in a bid to attract private sector investment in the exploration of critical and deep-seated minerals in the country.

What is the importance of minerals for India?

Various minerals play a pivotal role in a nation’s manufacturing, infrastructure development, and progress.

The shift towards clean energy in countries like India relies heavily on the accessibility of essential minerals like lithium, cobalt, graphite, and rare earth elements (REEs).

These minerals are also indispensable for producing semiconductors utilized in smart electronic devices, defense and aerospace gear, telecommunications technologies.

How much of India’s critical minerals are imported?

The scarcity of such minerals in specific geographic regions leads to a need for imports. It creates vulnerabilities in supply chains and the potential for disruptions.

For Example, China has substantial ownership of cobalt mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo, responsible for 70% of global cobalt production.

Prominent economies have recently taken measures to bolster their supply chain resilience for such minerals, and decrease their reliance on countries like China for supplies.

India’s dependence on imports for the majority of minerals on this list remains significant. India is entirely reliant on countries such as China, Russia, Australia, South Africa, and the United States for essential minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, niobium, beryllium.

Even for deep-seated minerals like gold, silver, copper, zinc, lead, nickel, cobalt, platinum group elements, and diamonds, India’s dependence on imports remains substantial.

In the fiscal year 2022-23, India imported nearly 1.2 million tonnes of copper valued at over ₹27,000 crore.

Why is the private sector vital for critical minerals exploration?

Research and the Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP) highlight that India’s distinctive geological and tectonic conditions offer a favorable environment for potential mineral resources.

Only about 10% of India’s Obvious Geological Potential (OGP) has been explored, and less than 2% of this has been extracted through mining.

India has witnessed only a limited number of significant mineral discoveries over the past few decades.

Majority of exploration projects are undertaken by the government entity Geological Survey of India and other Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) like the Mineral Exploration Corporation Limited.

Private sector involvement remains minimal. India’s mining policy had previously excluded private-sector explorers from participating in the initial exploration of minerals in untapped areas. Moreover, companies did not enjoy appropriate incentives.

The exploration process entails methods like aerial surveys, geological mapping, and geochemical analyses. So, it is a specialized, time-intensive, and financial activity. Less than 1% of examined projects ultimately progress into economically viable mines.

PSUs were better suited for exploring surface and bulk minerals like coal and iron ore. However, they faced difficulties in dealing with deep-seated and crucial minerals.

In countries such as Australia, private mining firms referred to as junior explorers take risks by utilizing their expertise and limited financial resources to conduct exploration.

Following the identification of these prospects, these private enterprises can sell their discoveries to larger mining corporations.

Is India’s mining policy conducive to private participation?

The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act of 1957, has undergone several revisions since its inception, including recent amendments in 2015, 2020, and 2021.

In 1994, amendments were made to the Act to enable interested parties to apply for mineral concessions through a First Come First Served (FCFS) approach.

In 2015, amendments were made to the MMDR Act to enable private companies to participate in government auctions for Mining Leases and Composite Licences (CLs).

However, the inclusion of the Evidence of Mineral content (EMT) rule meant that only projects explored by the government were subjected to auction. It restricts the involvement of the private sector.

The amendments also allowed private firms to register as exploration entities, with funding provided by the National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET) for exploration activities. Despite these changes, private sector engagement remained limited.

How does the Mines and Minerals Bill 2023 aim to encourage private players?

Read – Critical Minerals in India and Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill, 2023

What are some of the possible issues with the Bill’s proposals?

Read – Critical Minerals in India and Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill, 2023

Companies would be more willing to invest substantial sums if they were assured of utilizing any resources they unearth.

The new policy only permits the government to auction what an explorer has discovered. This contrasts with practices in other global jurisdictions, where private explorers can sell their findings to mining companies.

15 years after 2008, developed countries still making mistakes

News: In this article discusses the aftermath of the 2008 Financial Crisis and how policy responses deepened economic issues. Tight fiscal policy led to loss of monetary policy, causing more problems. Now, there’s a trend of countries turning protectionist, potentially harming global growth. The solution isn’t protectionism, but a coordinated global response, education, and improved domestic policies. The world needs a major conference, like Bretton Woods in 1944, to address these challenges.

What are the implications of the 2008 financial crisis on the world?

Globalization Impact: While globalization in the ’90s and 2000s boosted economies, it led to job losses in the West due to the “China shock”.

Fiscal Policy: Western countries tightened fiscal policy significantly after the crisis. This impacted their GDP growth: by 2018, GDP was 13% below pre-crisis trend in France, 17% in the US, and 22% in the UK.

Monetary Policy: Tight fiscal policies led to very loose monetary measures. Central banks increased their balance sheets, pushing long-term low interest rates.

Inequality and Economic Distortion: Loose monetary policy inflated asset prices, increasing inequality. It also kept unproductive “zombie firms” alive, stifling growth and innovation.

Protectionism: Economic challenges led to protectionist policies, like Brexit and the US-China trade war.

De-globalization Risks: Recent policies aim at bringing production back home, but this might reverse the gains from globalization. Such changes risk global economic division and could undo the benefits of globalization.

Bigger Current Threat: Technology and AI advances might replace many jobs, similar to how the “China shock” affected blue-collar jobs.

What should be done?

Coordinated Global Response: Countries should work together to address economic challenges, just as they did in the Bretton Woods Conference in 1944.

Education and Training: Equip workforces with skills to complement, not compete with, technology.

Support Creative Destruction: Encourage innovation and the phasing out of outdated practices, rather than preserving unproductive “zombie firms”.

Robust Safety Nets: Create systems to protect and support those adversely affected by economic changes.

Fair Tax System: Implement taxation that can finance the necessary changes and support the economy.

Avoid Protectionism: Instead of isolating economies, ensure that globalization’s gains are shared fairly.

Recognize AI’s Impact: Address the potential “ChatGPT shock” which might affect white-collar jobs, similar to how the “China shock” impacted blue-collar positions.

The focus should be on collaborative solutions, not counterproductive protectionist measures.

Experimenting with cheetahs, applying copy-paste as conservation

News: In this article author discusses India’s cheetah reintroduction project led by Dr. Jhala. Originally, the project aimed to establish free-ranging cheetahs in Kuno. Due to changing prey densities and habitat challenges, the plan evolved to shuffle cheetahs between areas. This approach might undermine India’s broader conservation goals by accepting fragmented habitats and “assisted dispersal” instead of natural wildlife movement. The author questions the accuracy of Dr. Jhala’s estimates and the project’s long-term implications.

What are the challenges to India’s cheetah reintroduction project?

1. Changing Project Goals: Initially, the project aimed to establish free-ranging cheetahs in Kuno. Now, it leans towards “assisted dispersal”, which means moving cheetahs between areas artificially.
2. Prey Density Fluctuations: Cheetal, the primary prey for cheetahs in Kuno, has varied densities over the years:

2006: 5 per sq km

2011: 36 per sq km

2012: 52 per sq km

2013: 69 per sq km

By 2021, Dr. Jhala’s data showed a density of just 38 per sq km.

3. Habitat Size and Carrying Capacity: Dr. Jhala initially suggested Kuno sanctuary (347 sq km) could support 27 cheetahs, with the larger Kuno landscape (3,000 sq km) holding up to 100 animals. By 2021, the numbers dropped to 21 cheetahs for a 748 sq km park and 36 for a 3,200 sq km landscape.
4. Legal Hurdles: The Supreme Court initially barred the project in 2013 and only allowed it in 2020 on an experimental basis.
5. Conservation Ethos Mismatch: The approach of shuffling cheetahs might undermine India’s broader conservation goals. The traditional ethos supports natural wildlife movement and interconnected forests. Assisted dispersal could promote fragmented habitats.
6. Doubts Over Data Accuracy: There is inconsistency in Kuno’s cheetal density data provided by Dr. Jhala over the years.

What should be done?

Reevaluate Project Goals: Reconsider the idea of “assisted dispersal” and refocus on establishing free-ranging cheetahs in their natural habitat, as originally intended.

Monitor Prey Density: Given the fluctuations in cheetal density (from 5 to 69 per sq km in seven years), regular monitoring is essential to ensure stable prey availability.

Legal & Ethical Considerations: Ensure that reintroduction aligns with the Supreme Court’s guidelines and India’s broader conservation ethos.

Maintain Forest Connectivity: Prioritize natural wildlife corridors and interconnected forests to avoid turning habitats into isolated genetic islands.

Transparency in Data: Ensure consistent and transparent data collection and sharing to maintain trust in the project’s viability.

Beyond the hype: Independent verification is crucial on claims about material LK-99

News: Recently, South Korean scientists revealed their discovery that the substance they termed LK-99 is a superconductor at room temperature and atmospheric pressure in two preprint paper uploaded to the arXiv repository

What is room-temperature superconductor?

A room-temperature superconductor is a material that can carry electric current without any loss or resistance at the temperatures we typically experience in daily life. Scientists have sought this for decades because it can revolutionize energy transmission and various industrial applications.

What is the significance of discovering a room-temperature superconductor?

Energy Efficiency: A large amount of electric current is lost during transmission from power plants to consumption points. A room-temperature superconductor could drastically reduce these losses.

Industrial Applications: Such a material would benefit heavy industrial processes. For instance, it could enhance the design and efficiency of nuclear reactors.

Research: Particle colliders, used in cutting-edge physics research, would see improvements in their design and operation.

Medical Diagnostics: Devices like MRI machines could become more efficient, potentially leading to clearer images and faster diagnostics.

Cooling Costs: Current superconductors need to be cooled to very low temperatures, which can be costly and challenging. For example, some superconductors require cooling with liquid helium, which is harder than using liquid nitrogen. Room-temperature superconductors eliminate this need.

Historical Context: There was a significant jump in superconducting capabilities in the late 1980s with the discovery of copper-oxide superconductors, showing the transformative nature of such breakthroughs.

Economic and Prestige Value: The discovery carries both material benefits and significant scientific honor, making it a sought-after achievement in the physics community.

What are the limitations for discovering a room-temperature superconductor?

Verification Challenges: Verifying superconductivity is complex. It requires sophisticated equipment and knowledge to ensure the material truly exhibits zero resistance.

Pressure Dependency: Some materials, like LaH10, show superconductivity near room temperature, but only under extreme pressures, making them impractical for most applications.

Scientific Rush: The allure of prestige and potential benefits can cause researchers to hasten publications before thorough verification, risking inaccuracies.

Historical Missteps: Past claims of room-temperature superconductors often faced retractions after independent scrutiny. For instance, the German physicist Jan Hendrik Schön’s claims were later retracted, casting doubt on new claims.

Synthesis Complexity: Creating the exact conditions for superconductivity, like with the South Korean LK-99, can be intricate and hard to replicate.

What should be done?

Independent Verification: Any new claim, like the South Korean group’s discovery of LK-99, needs thorough independent testing to confirm its properties.

Avoid Rushed Publications: Given past retractions, like that of Ranga P. Dias in 2020, researchers should avoid premature publications before comprehensive data verification.

Maintain Skepticism: Both the scientific community and the public should approach new claims cautiously, awaiting multiple confirmations before acceptance.

Increase Transparency: Open access to research, as seen with the South Korean group’s preprint papers, fosters trust and facilitates wider scrutiny.

Collaborative Efforts: Engage multiple labs and experts for a combined effort, ensuring diverse perspectives and minimizing biases or errors.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Centre to look into ‘Havana Syndrome’: What it means and the term’s history

Source: The post is based on the article “Centre to look into ‘Havana Syndrome’: What it means and the term’s history”  published in Indian Express on 8th August 2023.

What is the News?

The Central government has told the Karnataka High Court that it will look into the matter of the ‘Havana Syndrome’ in India.

A petitioner had approached the court requesting a writ of mandamus for an enquiry on Syndrome in India and the prevention of high-frequency microwave transmission in India.

What is Havana Syndrome?

Source: TOI

It refers to a set of mental health symptoms that are said to be experienced by United States intelligence and embassy officials in various countries.

It typically involves symptoms such as hearing certain sounds without any outside noise, nausea, vertigo and headaches, memory loss and balance issues.

This syndrome was first experienced by US State Department personnel in Cuba’s Havana in late 2016 and hence, the name Havana Syndrome.

What is the cause of Havana Syndrome?

The exact cause is uncertain, but it was initially suspected to be a deliberate act by Cuban authorities due to strained relations. It was initially called a “sonic attack.

However, later research suggested that the victims might have been exposed to powerful microwaves, which could damage the nervous system and create a sensation of sound. Prolonged exposure to such microwaves can affect balance, memory, and even cause permanent brain damage.

Despite extensive research, experiments, and medical examinations of victims, the US has not found concrete evidence to confirm the existence of the “microwave weapon” responsible for Syndrome.

What do we know about Havana Syndrome in India?

In India, the first case was reported in 2021 when a US intelligence officer traveling to New Delhi with a CIA director reported its symptoms.

Steps taken for sustainable groundwater management in the country

Source: The post is based on the article ‘Steps taken for sustainable groundwater management in the country”  published in PIB on 8th August 2023.

What is the News?

Minister of State for Jal Shakti has informed Lok Sabha about the steps taken for sustainable groundwater management in the country.

Groundwater Level in the country:

The Central Ground Water Board(CGWB) periodically monitors groundwater levels throughout the Country on a regional scale, through a network of monitoring wells. 

Analysis of water level data collected by CGWB during November 2022 in comparison with the decadal mean of November (2012-2021) has revealed that about 61.1% of the wells monitored have registered rise in ground water level whereas about 38.9 % wells have registered fall in water level.

Steps taken for sustainable groundwater management in the country:

National Aquifer Mapping and Management (NAQUIM) programme 

The Master Plan for Artificial Recharge to Groundwater – 2020 has been prepared with respective State counterparts.The master plan includes artificial recharge in both rural and urban areas including water scarce cities.

Jal Shakti Abhiyan (JSA): It was launched in 2019 in water stressed blocks of 256 districts in the country with the primary aim to effectively harvest the monsoon rainfall through creation of artificial recharge structures, watershed management, recharge and reuse structures, intensive afforestation and awareness generation etc. 

– Further, to emphasize the importance of sustainability of groundwater for drinking water supply schemes, Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain 2023 is targeting “Source sustainability for drinking water” for source strengthening/ sources stabilization of rural drinking water supply schemes.

Atal Bhujal Yojana: It was launched in collaboration with States in certain water stressed areas of Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. 

– The primary aim of the scheme is demand side management through scientific means involving the local communities at village levels leading to sustainable groundwater management in the targeted areas.

Meri LiFE, Mera Swachh Seher Campaign

Source: The post is based on the article “Meri LiFE, Mera Swachh Seher Campaign ”  published in PIB on 8th August 2023.

What is the News?

The Minister of State for Housing & Urban Affairs has informed Rajya Sabha about the ‘Meri LiFE, Mera Swachh Shehar’ campaign.

What is the Meri LiFE, Mera Swachh Shehar campaign?

Launched by: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).

Aim: To spread awareness regarding Mission LiFE and to nudge behaviour change of citizens to minimize waste generation, promote resource conservation and contribute to a cleaner and greener environment by adopting ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’ (RRR) in their everyday life.

Features: The campaign focused on empowering Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to set up ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’ (RRR) Centres as a one-stop solution for citizens, institutions, commercial enterprises etc. to deposit unused or used plastic items, clothes, footwear, books and toys.

Duration of the campaign: The campaign was launched on 15th May 2023 for the period of 3 weeks till World Environment Day 2023 on 5th June, 2023.

– Note: The campaign is not a scheme.It is a public outreach and mass engagement campaign being implemented by ULBs under Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban (SBM-U) 2.0.No separate organizations have been formed by Government of India for this campaign.

Ministry of Tourism has formulated a National Strategy and Roadmap for Medical and Wellness Tourism to boost Medical Tourism

Source: The post is based on the article “Ministry of Tourism has formulated a National Strategy and Roadmap for Medical and Wellness Tourism to boost Medical Tourism ”  published in PIB on 8th August 2023.

What is the News?

The Ministry of Tourism in order to boost Medical Tourism in the country has formulated a National Strategy and Roadmap for Medical and Wellness Tourism. 

What is the National Strategy and Roadmap for Medical and Wellness Tourism?

Aim: To provide an institutional framework, strengthening the ecosystem for medical and wellness tourism, developing a brand and ensuring quality assurance.

Key Pillars: The Strategy has identified the following key pillars to promote India as a destination for medical value travel and wellness tourism.These are:

–  Develop a brand for India as a wellness destination

– Strengthen the ecosystem for medical and wellness tourism

– Enable digitalization by setting up Online Medical Value Travel (MVT) Portal

– Enhancement of accessibility for Medical Value Travel

– Promoting Wellness Tourism

–  Governance and Institutional Framework

What are the ongoing activities going on to promote Medical Tourism in India?

Firstly, the Ministry of Tourism releases global print, electronic and online media campaigns in important and potential markets overseas, under the ‘Incredible India’ brand-line, to promote various tourism destinations and products of the country. 

– Digital promotions are also regularly undertaken on the theme of Medical Tourism.

Secondly, in the case of e-Medical Visa and for e-Medical Attendant Visa, triple entry is permitted and extension may be granted up to 6 months on case to case basis on merits of each case by the Foreigners Regional Registration Officers (FRRO)/Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) concerned.

Thirdly, the Union Ministry of Health is coordinating with other Ministries and stakeholders viz. Hospitals, Medical Value Travel (MVT) facilitators, Insurance Companies, NABH etc to promote medical value travel in the country.

In Jaisalmer fossils, scientists find a new dinosaur species, name it after Thar desert

Source: The post is based on the article “In Jaisalmer fossils, scientists find a new dinosaur species, name it after Thar desert”  published in TOI n 8th August 2023.

What is the News?

Scientists from IIT-Roorkee and Geological Survey of India(GSI) have discovered the oldest fossil remains of a dinosaur species in Jaisalmer.They have named it ‘Tharosaurus indicus’.

What is Tharosaurus indicus?

Tharosaurus indicus is the name given to the fossil remains of a long-necked, plant-eating dicraeosaurid dinosaur found in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.

It has been named ‘Tharosaurus indicus’ as the first name refers to the ‘Thar desert’ where the fossils were found and the second after its country of origin.

Why is this finding significant?

First Time found in India: The dicraeosaurid dinosaurs have been found previously in North and South Americas, Africa and China. But such fossils were not known from India. This is the first time it has been discovered in India.

Oldest known diplodocoid dinosaur: The rocks in which the fossils of Tharosaurus indicus were found are dated to be around 167 million years old, which makes this new Indian sauropod not only the oldest known dicraeosaurid dinosaur but also globally the oldest diplodocoid (broader group which includes dicraeosaurids and other closely related sauropods). 

Note: Theories so far had suggested that the oldest dicraeosaurid was from China (about 166-164 million years old).

Indian-made syrup found contaminated in Iraq, alerts WHO

Source: The post is based on the article “Indian-made syrup found contaminated in Iraq, alerts WHO”  published in The Hindu on 8th August 2023.

What is the News?

The World Health Organisation has raised an alert against an India-manufactured contaminated syrup sold in Iraq.

What is the alert WHO has issued?

Paracetamol syrup Cold Out is manufactured by Chennai-headquartered Fourrts Laboratories.

This syrup was found to contain 0.25% diethylene glycol (DG) and 2.1% ethylene glycol (EG), the WHO alert said. 

The acceptable limit for both contaminants in medical products is not more than 0.10 per cent.

WHO has issued an alert warning people against consuming the syrup as contaminants in these syrups are known to cause abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, altered mental status, inability to pass urine, acute kidney injury and death.

Why is this a concern for India?

Atleast five of the syrups under scrutiny by WHO involves Indian manufacturers.

The contaminated India-made syrups have been linked to deaths of children in the Gambia, Uzbekistan and Cameroon. The most likely source of contaminants are solvents like propylene glycol, glycerine used for syrups. 

There have also been reports of bacterial contaminants in eye drops and ointments from the United States and Sri Lanka.

Indian Army Inducts Swathi Mk2 Radar For Mountain Surveillance

Source: The post is based on the article “Indian Army Inducts Swathi Mk2 Radar For Mountain Surveillance”  published in The Republic on 8th August 2023.

What is the News?

Indian Army has inducted the lighter and more compact version of the indigenously developed Weapon Locating Radar(WLR-M) called “Swathi Mountains.”

What is Swathi Mk2 Radar or Swati Mountains?

Swati Mountains is an indigenously developed Weapon Locating Radar(WLR).

It is an advanced electronically scanned phased array radar, specifically designed for operations in mountainous and high-altitude areas.

It was developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Bengaluru.

What is Weapon Locating Radar(WLR)?

The Weapon Locating Radar(WLR) is a crucial tool for modern armies. 

It uses advanced signal processing techniques to autonomously detect and track hostile artillery, mortars, and rocket launchers.

It even tracks friendly fire trajectories, enabling precise calculations for more accurate artillery strikes.

The radar is impressive because it can spot small flying objects in different conditions and predict where they will land.

One of its strengths is that it can quickly move and set up, adapting to different needs.It can also scan different places without needing to move physically. 

What are the different variants of Swati Radar?

The Swathi radar comes in two versions:

Swathi Plains version: It is primarily designed to locate hostile guns, mortars, and rockets, and it can also track the fall of shot from friendly weapons for corrective measures on flat terrains like Plains, as the name of the version suggests.

Swathi Mountains version: It is a compact and mobile radar designed for use in mountainous areas.It can detect mortar shells, rockets and other projectiles while ignoring false signals like birds or aircraft.It also predicts the trajectory and impact point of incoming objects, correcting for altitude to improve accuracy.The radar stores data and communicates with higher-level units for better coordination.

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

7 PM Editorial of the day: Critical Minerals in India and Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill, 2023 : Explained, pointwise