9 PM Daily Current Affairs Brief – November 24th, 2023

Print Friendly and PDF

Dear Friends,

9 PM Brief is our prime initiatives for the preparation of current affairs. What we are providing in this initiative:

  • Ensure that all relevant facts, data, and arguments from today’s newspaper are readily available to you.
  • We have widened the sources to provide you with content that is more than enough and adds value not just for GS but also for essay writing.

It is our endeavor to provide you with the best content, and your feedback is essential for the same. We will be anticipating your feedback and ensure the blog serves as an optimal medium of learning for all the aspirants.

For previous editions of 9 PM BriefClick Here

For individual articles of 9 PM BriefClick Here

Download Factly and 9 PM Weekly Compilations | Arranged Subject-wise and Topic-wise

Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 2

On Transfer of Judges – Collegium’s opacity is injurious to the institution’s health

Source: The post on Transfer of Judges has been created based on the article “Collegium’s opacity is injurious to the institution’s health” published in “Indian Express” on 24th November 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 Indian Polity – Structure, organization and functioning of the Judiciary.

News: The article discusses _

Recently, various judges of High Courts have raised questions on their abrupt transfers by the Supreme Court (SC) Collegium.

Evolution of the Collegium system:

What are the issues with the procedure of transfer of judges by the Collegium?

  1. Lack of Transparency: There is no official procedure or any written manual for the functioning of the Collegium. The parameters considered for transfers are not public, Moreover, the reasons for transfer are not communicated to the judges.
  2. Impact on Judicial Efficiency: Frequent or abrupt transfers of judges can disrupt the functioning of courts, impacting the efficiency of the judicial system.
  3. Lack of Constitutional Backing: The Collegium system is not prescribed by the Constitution. Article 124 only mentions consultation, which the SC interpreted as ‘concurrence’ in Second Judges Case (1993). Many consider this as judicial overreach.
  4. Lack of Checks & Balance: There are no checks on the whole process (by the Executive or the Legislature).
  5. Accusations of Impartiality: Critics of the system argue that near relatives, kith and kin of sitting Judges receive favourable treatment leading to nepotism (also called ‘Uncle Judges Syndrome’).

In which scenarios are transfers usually recommended by the Collegium?

One, a transfer is used for appointing Chief Justices or ensuring elevation to the SC.
For instance, a potential candidate for SC judgeship is usually sent to a large high court to be tested on judicial performance.

Two, Transfer of a judge is sometimes done as punitive action to deal with judges who do not conform to the expected or proper course of action as part of the judiciary.
This is because impeachment is the only remedy when questions of propriety are raised against a judge. Since it requires a very high degree of evidence and political will, judiciary sometimes resorts to transfers.

What should be done going ahead?

  1. Establish a Defined Procedure: The Government and Judiciary should cooperate to finalize a defined procedure regarding judicial transfers. The Memorandum of Procedure should have clear guidelines for transparency like criteria, disclosure of reasons for transfer, mechanism for raising concerns, etc.
  2. Reviving the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC): NJAC was proposed as an alternative to the collegium system to ensure checks and balances. It would have representation from the judiciary, executive and eminent jurists and will be responsible for appointment and transfer of judges.

Question for practice:

Briefly outline the evolution of the Collegium system for appointment and transfer of judges in India. Critically analyse its working in the context of transfer of judges.

On the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework- IPEF agreement: India has played its cards quite well

Source: The post on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework has been created based on the article “IPEF agreement: India has played its cards quite well” published in “Live Mint” on 24th November 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- International relation– Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

News: The article discusses India signing the Supply Chain Resilience Agreement of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) to diversify trade and reduce dependence on China. It also highlights the IPEF’s challenges, such as limited market access and internal conflicts among member countries.

What is the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF)?

The IPEF was started in May 2022 by the United States along with 13 countries including Australia, India, and Japan. This group represents about 40% of the global GDP and 28% of world trade.

The IPEF focuses on four areas: trade, supply chains, clean energy, and creating a clean economy.

It’s unique because member countries can choose which of these areas they want to be involved in, without needing to commit to all four. This flexibility sets the IPEF apart from other international agreements.

India had joined Pillars II to IV of IPEF while it has an observer status in Pillar-I.

What are the key outcomes of the 3rd IPEF Ministerial Meeting?

The 3rd Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) Ministerial Meeting in San Francisco produced significant outcomes:

Supply Chain Agreement: Signed in San Francisco, this first-of-its-kind agreement aims to enhance the resilience and responsiveness of supply chains.

Clean Energy, Decarbonisation and Infrastructure: Commitment to accelerate clean energy technologies and decarbonize economies, supporting sustainable livelihoods and aligning with Paris Agreement goals.

Trade Pillar: Progress has been made towards a mutually beneficial outcome that emphasizes strong labor standards and fair trade.

IPEF Critical Minerals Dialogue: Launched to foster closer collaboration on strengthening IPEF critical mineral supply chains and boosting regional economic competitiveness.

Financing Initiatives: Emphasis on mobilizing financing for supply chain resilience and sustainable development.

Future Meetings: Plans for an annual ministerial-level IPEF Council from 2024 and biennial leaders’ meetings.

What challenges does the IPEF face?

US Domestic Politics and Trade Barriers: The United States, despite advocating for free trade, has been implementing trade subsidies and erecting trade barriers in the name of quality, labor, and environmental standards. This creates a challenge for IPEF, as the US’s own policies might contradict the framework’s objectives.

Concerns about the Stability: The scrapping of the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) by former US President Donald Trump adds to the skepticism around the IPEF. This past action raises concerns about the stability and commitment of the US towards such international trade agreements.

Differing Member Interests: The diverse interests of IPEF member countries can lead to conflicts, making it difficult to reach a consensus, particularly on trade issues. This challenge became evident during the recent San Francisco dialogue, when members failed to reach an agreement on the trade pillar, resulting in its deferment.

What is the significance of IPEF for India?

Counterbalancing China’s Influence: Through the IPEF, India is diversifying its trade and supply chains, reducing its dependency on China. This strategic move not only improves India’s supply stability but also serves as a countermeasure to China’s growing regional influence.

Economic Growth: The IPEF, representing about 40% of global GDP, opens up significant new trade and economic opportunities for India.

Strategic Positioning: Participation in IPEF strengthens India’s position as a reliable partner in regional supply chains, boosting its role in global value chains.

Navigating Geopolitical Challenges: India’s involvement in IPEF helps it manage complex geopolitical dynamics, such as the Ukraine-Russia conflict, while maintaining beneficial relationships and economic interests.

Question for practice:

Examine the challenges faced by the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) and how they may impact its effectiveness and member consensus.

APEC summit 2023 – To beat China, India must engage with APEC

Source: The post APEC summit 2023 has been created based on the article “To beat China, India must engage with APEC” published in “Indian express” on 24th November 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 International Relations – Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

News: The article is talking about the 2023 APEC summit in San Francisco, which focused on US-China relations, economic discussions, and regional cooperation. It highlights the renewed US-China dialogue, while noting India’s absence and suggesting its greater engagement. India’s absence and suggesting its greater engagement.

What is Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)?

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) is a regional forum founded in 1989 to boost economic growth and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. It includes 21 members, representing around 62% of global GDP and 48% of world trade in 2021. APEC works on a voluntary basis, focusing on sustainable, balanced, and innovative growth. It doesn’t bind members with treaties but encourages collaboration through capacity-building projects.

India holds ‘observer’ status, as APEC stopped new memberships in 1997 to concentrate on internal cooperation.

What were the key outcomes regarding US-China relations in the 2023 APEC summit?

At the 2023 APEC summit, the US and China resumed their communications after almost a year. This included restoring military communications, which China had

previously suspended, a key step towards better diplomatic and security relations. President Biden emphasized the US’s strategy to reduce reliance on China economically, indicating a significant shift in approach.
However, despite these discussions, no major new agreements were reached, highlighting persistent differences in their global approaches and values.

What is the implication of India’s absence from the 2023 APEC summit?

India has missed following opportunities due to its absence from APEC:

Discussions on regional trade agreements, particularly the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific and the CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership). It will result in absence from shaping economic and trade policies for the Indo-Pacific.

Participation in the Dialogue among the strategic discussion between US, China, and Japan.
To meet its economic goals and position itself as a competitive alternative to China for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

Question for practice:

Evaluate the impact of India’s absence from the 2023 APEC summit on regional cooperation in the Asia-Pacific.

GS PAPER - 3

On solving the Air Pollution problem – Who is in charge of my ‘air’?

Source: The post on solving the Air Pollution problem has been created based on the article “Who is in charge of my ‘air’?” published in “Business Standard” on 24th November 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 Environment – Environmental pollution and degradation

News: The article discusses the various steps that can be taken to deal with the challenges of air pollution in India.

A detailed article on Air Pollution can be read here.

What should be done to deal with the challenges of air pollution issue in India?

Real-Time Pollution Statistics: A complete grid of air quality measurement stations is required across India; these stations need to work accurately, and their data needs to go out in real time.

Research along with Data: A vibrant research community is required, which puts out papers on the problem. This environment of facts and research will ensure evidence-based measures to deal with air pollution.

Identifying the Sources of Pollution: Specialized instruments are required to continuously monitor the air and break down the sources of pollution.

Removing Harmful Policies: The issue of stubble burning is a consequence of various bad policies in the agriculture/food domain. This includes an over-emphasis on cereals (through MSP and public procurement) and the shortening of the sowing window which compels farmers to burn stubble (Punjab Preservation of Subsoil Water Act, 2009).

Tackling Jurisdictional Issues through Collaboration: The problem of air quality is not limited to legal jurisdictions and thus requires collaboration between multiple governments beyond the state and national borders. For instance, around 30% of Indian Punjab’s pollution originates in Pakistan.
World Bank has identified 6 relevant regional airsheds for India, covering multiple urban, provincial, and national jurisdictions. 4 of the 6 span national borders. All authorities in a given airshed need to cooperate on data, research, and policy formulation.

Source: News18.

Air Pollution across Jurisdictions. 

Terminology Used:

Airshed: An airshed is a geographical area where local topography and meteorology limit the dispersion of pollutants away from the area. They are formed by air masses moving across a landscape, thus influencing the atmospheric composition of that area. These airsheds usually do not overlap with legal-political boundaries.

Question for practice:

The problem of air pollution in India is a complex issue spanning multiple jurisdictions and stakeholders. Discuss.

Deepfake alarm

Source: The post on Deepfakes has been created based on the article “Deepfake alarm” published in “The Hindu” on 24th November 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 Science and Technology – Developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.

News: The article discusses the technological measures based on AI that can be used to tackle the rising challenge of Deepfakes.

A detailed article on Deepfakes can be read here.

What are Deepfakes?

Deepfakes are fake content in the form of videos, pictures and audio which are created using powerful artificial intelligence tools.
The technology involves modifying or creating images and videos using a machine learning technique called generative adversarial network (GAN).

What legal recourse can victims of deepfakes currently take in India?

  1. Reporting the post to the social media platforms, which are legally bound to address grievances relating to cybercrime and remove it within 36 hours as per the IT Act, 2000.
  2. A complaint can be lodged with the National Cyber Crime Helpline — 1930.

However, there is no comprehensive legislation at the time that directly addresses deepfakes and AI-related crimes.

What measures are being undertaken to tackle Deepfakes?

AI-based Tools: AI-models are being developed to counter Dark AI activities. These can be applied to slightly change the digital artwork in the back end, making it hard for AI models to train themselves on. For instance, Intel’s deepfake detector called FakeCatcher.

Development of a Technical Standard for Authentication: An open technical standard is being created by a consortium of software companies with an aim to authenticate digital pictures.

Fact-Check Tools: Social media intermediaries such as Facebook and X’s fact-check tools could help sort through AI content.

Question for practice:

Artificial Intelligence can play a significant part in dealing with challenges arising due to its own misuse. Discuss in the context of Deepfakes.

India’s economic growth and inequality- A $5 trillion economy, but for whom?

Source: The post on India’s economic growth and inequality has been created based on the article “A $5 trillion economy, but for whom?” published in “The Hindu” on 24th November 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- Indian Economy- Issues relating to planning, growth, development and employment; Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.

News: The article discusses India’s economic growth and inequality. It compares India’s situation to Japan’s economic history, highlighting issues like wealth distribution and social challenges. It questions if India’s growth will benefit all citizens or just a few.

What is India’s current economic plan?

Aim for a $5 Trillion Economy: India’s goal is to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2028 with a GDP target of $5 trillion.

Emphasis on Advanced Sectors: The Indian government has identified key sectors for growth, including the digital economy, fintech, energy transition, and addressing climate change.

Reforms and Incentives: The government has implemented reforms like GST, the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, and reduced corporate taxes. It also promotes initiatives like Make in India, Start-Up India, and Production Linked Incentives.

Focus on Inclusive Growth: The government’s plan is anchored around the concept of “inclusive growth,” ensuring the economic development benefits a wide range of citizens.

What are India’s economic challenges?

Significant Wealth Inequality: In India, the richest 1% own about 41% of the country’s wealth, while the poorest 50% have only a 3% share.

High Tax Burden on Poor Population: Around 64% of the total Goods and Services Tax (GST) is paid by the bottom half of the population, while the top 10% contribute only 3%.

Limited Benefits from Economic Growth: Despite India’s push for a $5 trillion economy, most benefits seem skewed towards the affluent. This is reflected in India’s low inequality index score of 21.9, indicating a large disparity in wealth distribution and economic gains.

Challenges in Capital, Productivity, and Labor: India’s economic growth faces hurdles due to uneven capital distribution, questionable educational and skill levels, and nascent digital literacy.

Gap in Per Capita Income: India’s per capita income, a key indicator of well-being, is low. In 2022, India ranked 149th among 194 countries, with a per capita income of $2,400, far below that of countries like Japan ($34,000) and China ($13,000).

Continued Need for Food Security: The extension of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojna until 2028 underscores the persistent challenge of food security in India.

What can India learn from Japan’s experience?

Importance of Economic Diplomacy: When Japan dropped to the world’s third largest economy, it adopted ego-free economic diplomacy. By embracing China as a key trading partner, Japan demonstrated the benefits of positive international relations for economic progression.

Balancing Industrial Growth with Social Stability: Japan’s transition to a high-value industrial economy played a role in the emergence of hikikomori phenomenon, where individuals isolate themselves from society. This phenomenon is characterized by people staying indoors for long periods, often in their homes. This situation underscores the importance of adopting a balanced approach to industrialization, one that takes into account its effects on personal and social relationships.

Inclusive Economic Strategies: Japan’s experience emphasizes the importance of growth strategies that include all societal segments. Despite facing social issues and rank demotion, Japan’s high per capita income, at $34,000, compared to China suggests a relatively broad distribution of economic benefits. This highlights the need for policies that ensure economic gains reach beyond just the wealthy or technologically advanced sectors.

Question for practice:

Examine India’s economic goals and challenges in light of Japan’s economic history and its approach to wealth distribution and social stability.


Following articles have already been covered in the 7 PM Articles of the day: 


Today’s 7 PM 
Article Link- COP 28: India’s equity demand 
7 PM Article - Common But Differentiated Responsibilities- Explained Pointwise

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Deed of familial association- Sushma vs Commissioner of Police judgement

Source– This post is based on the article “Same-sex couples: A judge to the rescue” published in “The Hindu” on 23 November 2023.

Why in the News?

Recently the Madras High Court has asked the Tamil Nadu government to come up with a procedure for registering the deed of familial association to recognise the rights of LGBTQIA+ partners.

What is the background ?

1. Justice Anand Venkatesh of the Madras High Court recently heard a petition on the need for familial recognition among the LGBTQIA+ persons who choose to form and retain families, and has asked the Tamil Nadu government to work out a deed (agreement) of familial association.

2. The plea was filed by Prasanna, who intervened in an ongoing case that began with a plea by a lesbian couple seeking protection from their relatives (Sushma v. Commissioner of Police and ors. case)

What is the significance of a deed of familial association?

1. The deed of familial association stands as documentary “proof” of their relationship which would help couples in obtaining various benefits and entitlements that would previously be impossible.

2. It will provide legal status to relationships between same-sex couples and other LGBTQIA+ couples. It will protect them against harassment and violence, and discrimination in matters of employment, housing, etc. and ensure integration into the society.

3. The ruling holds significance in light of the recent Supreme Court judgment in Supriyo vs Union of India case whereby the court refused to recognise the rights of same-sex couples to marry.

What is the Sushma vs Commissioner of Police judgement?

Background-  The court was hearing a petition against the harassment faced by same-sex couples at the hands of the police who often file “missing” complaints against such couples, at the parents’ behest. It further sought to establish guidelines for other cases of similar nature.

Highlights of the Judgement-

1. The Court held that the LGBTQIA+ community has the right to equality under Article 14.

2. It held that after the judgments in NALSA vs. Union of India and Naz Foundation vs. Government of NCT of Delhi, prohibition against discrimination in Article 15(1) ‘on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth or any of them’ was no longer restricted to just the listed characteristics. It also includes ‘gender identity’ and ‘sexual orientation’.

Guidelines Issued by the Court-

1. The police should close complaints for missing persons once they find that they are in a consensual relationship.

2. Directed the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment to enlist and publicise NGOs which would be able to help people from the LGBTQIA+ community. It must also provide shelter in existing government short-stay homes for people from the community who need it.

3. Prohibition of any attempts to medically ‘cure’ sexual orientation or gender identity.

4. Change in curriculum to educate students on understanding the LGBTQIA+ community.

5. Inclusivity in hiring policies and extension of work benefits to members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

6. The right to free legal aid for the LGBTQIA+ community.

For more information on Same Sex Marriage Verdict by SC- Implications- Explained Pointwise  Click Here

UPSC Syllabus- Polity and Nation

Investor Risk Reduction Access (IRRA) Platform

Source– This post is based on the article “What is the new Investor Risk Reduction Access platform, and how it stands to benefit investors” published in “The Indian Express” on 24th November 2023.

Why in the News?

SEBI has launched the Investor Risk Reduction Access (IRRA) platform, jointly developed by India’s stock exchanges. It will act as a ‘safety net’ for investors in case of technical glitches faced by a trading member.

What is Investor Risk Reduction Access (IRRA) Platform?

What is it? 1. It is a platform developed to reduce risks faced by investors in case of technical glitches at the end of trading members or stock brokers registered with SEBI.

2. It will provide investors an opportunity to close their open positions and cancel pending orders in case of technical glitches or outages which render the trading member’s site inaccessible.

Developed by Jointly developed by all the stock exchanges – BSE, NSE, NCDEX, MCX and Metropolitan Stock Exchange of India (MSE)
Launched by Security and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
How it work? 1. IRRA can be invoked by trading members when there’s a technical glitch at their end across exchanges from both – the primary site and disaster recovery site.

2. Even stock exchanges can suo moto initiate the service, if needed, irrespective of any such request by the trading members.
– Done only in case of disruption faced across all the exchanges, where the trading member is a member.

What is the timeline for a trading member to request migration to the IRRA platform?  A trading member can inform the stock exchange via email to migrate to the IRRA platform before the start of the market session or after the start of the market but at least 2.5 hours before the scheduled closure of market hours of the segment in which it holds an open position.
The reverse migration of a trading member from the IRRA platform 1. Only one reverse migration will be allowed during a trading day.
2. The request for reverse migration needs to be submitted at least 1 hour before the scheduled closure of the market in which the trading member holds an open position.

What is SEBI?

Click Here to read more 

UPSC Syllabus- Indian Economy

Green Hydrogen Electrolyzer

Source- This post is based on the article “Finland, India discuss hydrogen electrolyzer production in India” published in “Live mint” on 23 November 2023.

Why in the News?

Finland and India recently discussed manufacturing green hydrogen electrolyzer in India.

What is Green Hydrogen Electrolyzer?

What is it? 1. A normal Hydrogen Electrolyzer is an electrochemical device that use electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.
2. Green hydrogen electrolyzer uses electricity generate from renewable sources to power the electrolysis process, by means of which hydrogen is obtained from water.
3. One of the world’s largest electrolysers is located in Fukushima, Japan, at the site of the well-known nuclear disaster.
Types Although several types of electrolyzers are in use today, the most common ones are polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) electrolyzers and alkaline electrolysis cells (AECs).

1. A PEM hydrogen electrolyzer decomposes water using a solid polymer membrane that allows protons to transport across and blocks electron flow. The hydrogen protons that cross the membrane form H2 on the cathode side. It is also known as a proton exchange membrane electrolyzer.

Source- PEM electrolyzer
Source- Wikipedia

2. Alkaline water electrolysis (alkaline electrolysis cells) is a type of electrolyzer that is characterized by having two electrodes operating in a liquid alkaline electrolyte solution of potassium hydroxide (KOH) or sodium hydroxide (NaOH).
– These electrodes are separated by a diaphragm, separating the product gases and transporting the hydroxide ions (OH−) from one electrode to the other.

Alkaline water electrolyzer
Source- Wikipedia

What is Green Hydrogen?

Click Here to read more

What steps have been taken for the promotion of Green Hydrogen?

Click Here to read more

What is PLI Scheme?

Click Here to read more

UPSC Syllabus – Science & Technology

Social Audit under MGNREGS

Source– This post is based on the article “MGNREGS audit crosses 50% local bodies in just six States” published in “The Hindu” on 23 November 2023.

Why in the News?

Based on data from the Management Information System (MIS) on Social Audit of Union Ministry of Rural Development, it was found that only 6 states have completed social audit of works done under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) in more than 50% of gram panchayats.

What is MGNREGS: Issues and Significance ?

Click here to read more

What is Social Audit and what is its process under MGNREGA?

1. According to CAG, Social Audit may be described as verification of the implementation of a programme/scheme and its results by the community with the active involvement of the primary stakeholders.

2. Section 17 of the MGNREGA states that the gram Sabha “shall monitor the execution of works”.

3. Each State has Social Audit Units (SAUs) which are supposed to work independent of the implementing authorities.

4. Comptroller and Auditor General has laid down the auditing standards. Under these, every SAU is entitled to funds equivalent to 0.5% of the MGNREGA expenditure incurred by the State in the previous year.

5. The Union Government provides funds to the SAUs to ensure their independence from the state governments.

6. The audit involves quality checks of infrastructure created under the MGNREGA and checking for financial misappropriation in wages and procedural deviations.

7. Social Audit Public Hearings: The purpose of these public hearings is to subject the audit reports to close public scrutiny. While most states conduct this at the block level, Kerala holds these public hearings at the level of gram panchayat.

8. In case of failure to conduct SA regularly, Centre has clarified that it will withhold funds under MGNREGS.

What are the Key findings?

Social audit under MGNREGS
Source- The Hindu
Overall States performance Of the 34 States and Union Territories, only six have completed social audit of works done under the  MGNREGS in more than 50% of gram panchayats.
States cover more than 50 percent gram panchayats 1. Best PerformingKerala is the only State to cover 100% gram panchayats.
2. Other States are- Bihar (64.4%), Gujarat (58.8%), Jammu and Kashmir (64.1%), Odisha (60.42%) and Uttar Pradesh (54.97%).
States cover more than 40 percent or more gram panchayats Telangana (40.5%), Himachal Pradesh (45.32%) and Andhra Pradesh (49.7%).
Worst performing states Madhya Pradesh (1.73%), Mizoram (17.5%) etc.

UPSC Syllabus- Polity and Nation & Schemes and programmes

Governor holds no veto power over Bills says Supreme Court

Source- This post is based on the article “Governor holds no veto power over Bills, says Supreme Court” published in “The Hindu” on 23 November 2023.

Why in the News?

The Supreme Court has held that a Governor, in case he withholds assent to a Bill, should return the bill to the legislature for reconsideration. The judgement was based on a petition filed by the Punjab government against it’s Governor’s action to hold back crucial bills.

For more information on State of Punjab vs Governor issue and Supreme court observations, Click Here to read

What are the Highlights of the Judgement?

1. Mandatory to return the bill for reconsideration if assent withheld– Court has held that under Article 200, if the Governor withholds assent he must return the bill “as soon as possible” with a message to reconsider the proposed law. A Governor who chooses to withhold a Bill without doing anything further would be acting in contravention of the Constitution.

2. It said the expression “as soon as possible” conveyed a “constitutional imperative of expedition” which means cannot hold indefinitely. The court has thus clarified its position on ‘pocket veto’

3. Governor enjoys no veto power over Bills- After returning the Bill for reconsideration, if the State legislature passes the Bill again, with or without amendment and the Bill is presented to the Governor for assent, the Governor shall not withhold assent (Article 200).

4. Governor only a symbolic head; real power with elected representatives– The Court reaffirmed that the Governor is an unelected Head of the State and cannot use his constitutional powers to thwart the normal course of lawmaking by the State.

5. The Governor, under Article 168, is a part of the legislature and is bound by the constitutional regime.

For more information on this Issue  Click Here

UPSC Syllabus – Polity and Nation

Kyasanur forest disease: Study confirms its presence in 2 more Karnataka districts

Source: The post is based on the article “Kyasanur forest disease: Study confirms its presence in 2 more Karnataka districts” published in “Indian Express” on 22nd November 2023

Why in the News?

A study by the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Institute of Virology (NIV) has for the first time confirmed the presence of the Kyasanur forest disease (KFD) virus in two more districts of Karnataka.

What is Kyasanur forest disease (KFD)?

Kyasanur forest disease(KFD
Source: Wikipedia
Specifications Details
Type Zoonotic Disease
Caused by Kyasanur Forest disease virus, a member of the virus family Flaviviridae.
Also known as Monkey disease/ monkey fever because of its association with monkey deaths.
Transmission  It is transmitted through the bite of ticks and bonnet.
Black-faced langur monkeys are highly susceptible to the infection. They play a significant role in the spread of the virus in the human population.
First identified in Kyasanur forest in Karnataka in 1957 
Symptoms Chills, frontal headache, body ache and high fever for five to 12 days.
Mortality rate 2 to 10%
Diagnosis Molecular detection by PCR or virus isolation from blood.
Treatment There is no specific treatment for monkey fever. A vaccine (Formalin inactivated KFDV vaccine) does exist for KFD and is used in endemic areas of India.

UPSC Syllabus: Diseases in News

Houthi Rebels: India-bound cargo ship hijacked by Houthi rebels in Red Sea

Source: The post is based on the articleHouthi Rebels: India-bound cargo ship hijacked by Houthi rebels in Red Sea” published in “Livemint” on 21st November 2023

Why in the News?

An India-bound cargo ship named Galaxy Leader was hijacked in the Red Sea by Yemen’s Houthi rebels.

Who are Houthis?

1) The Houthis are a rebel group in Yemen. They have been fighting a civil war with the Yemen government for almost a decade. 

2) They are named after the Houthi tribe who follow Zaydi Shia beliefs.

3) They are in power in northern Yemen including the official capital Sanaa. The official government now operates out of Aden.

4) They are supported by Iran. On the other hand, the Yemen government is backed by Saudi Arabia and Western countries.

Where is Yemen?

Yemen
Source: Wikipedia
Specifications Details
Located in Arabian Peninsula (Western Asia)
Bordered by Saudi Arabia and Oman
Capital  Sanaa
Maritime Borders Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia.
Seas surrounded by It is located at the junction of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Its coastline commands the strategic strait of Bab al-Mandab.
Largest Island of Yemen Socotra Island

Where is the Red Sea?

1) The Red Sea is a seawater inlet of the Indian Ocean lying between Africa and Asia

2) It is connected to the Indian Ocean in the south through the Bab el Mandeb strait and the Gulf of Aden

3) To the north of the Red Sea lies the Sinai Peninsula, the Gulf of Aqaba and the Gulf of Suez.

4) Bordering Countries: Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Sudan, Eritrea and Djibouti.

UPSC Syllabus: International Relations/ Places in News

Ministry of Steel meets to discuss first ever initiative to introduce labeling and branding of steel sector’s products

Source: The post is based on the articleMinistry of Steel meets to discuss first ever initiative to introduce labeling and branding of steel sector’s productspublished in “PIB” on 23rd November 2023

Why in the News?

The Consultative Committee meeting for the Ministry of Steel has discussed the progress on the Initiative to introduce branding and labelling of ‘Made-in-India’ steel products in the global market.

What is the Initiative to introduce branding and labelling of ‘Made-in-India’ steel products?

Specifications  Details
Launched by Ministry of Steel and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Purpose 1) Aims to addMade in India’ labels to domestic steel products and promote them at the global level.
2) The label will have details of the product and a Made in India Logo along with a QR Code.
Phases 1) Phase I: In this phase, all Integrated Steel Players (ISPs) have been included. This phase is expected to be completed by March 2024.
2) Phase II: Made in India Branding will be extended to the Specialized Steel Plants (SSPs).
Significance 1) This is the first ever initiative by any ministry to introduce labeling and branding of the sector’s products.

2) It will make Indian steel products more attractive to buyers.

3) E​nsures standardized quality of goods.

4) Strengthens the country’s domestic manufacturing in line with the Make in India Initiative.

UPSC Syllabus: Initiatives/Policies

International Container Transhipment Port(ICTP): Union Minister reviews the project

Source: The post is based on the articleInternational Container Transhipment Port(ICTP): Union Minister reviews the project” published in “PIB” on 23rd November 2023

Why in the News?

The Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) recently visited the site of the proposed International Container Transhipment Port (ICTP) at Galathea Bay, Great Nicobar Island.

Note: Transhipment is when a cargo or a container is moved from one vessel to another, while in transit to its final destination.

What is the International Container Transhipment Port (ICTP) Project?

International Container Transshipment Port(ICTP) Project
Source: Swarajya
Specification Details
What is it It is a Transhipment port project being built at Galathea Bay in Great Nicobar Island.
Aim To reduce India’s dependency on foreign ports for transshipment cargo handling
Envisaged under Maritime India vision 2030 
Nodal Agency Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMPK) 
Development Model Landlord Model
Phase wise development 1) The Port facilities are proposed to be developed in four phases between 2028 and 2058 and would handle 16 million containers per year in the final stage of development.

2) The first phase, upon completion in 2028, will handle 4 million containers per year.

What are the expected benefits of the International Container Transshipment Port (ICTP) Project?

Geo-strategic Benefits: The project is of immense importance because of its: 

1) Strategic location in terms of proximity (40 nautical miles from Malacca Strait) to the International Trade Route;

2) Availability of natural water depth of more than 20 meters and,

3) Potential to capture transhipment cargo from all the ports in the proximity, including domestic ones.

Economic Benefits: ​​Currently, nearly 75% of India’s transshipped cargo is handled at ports outside India. Colombo, Singapore and Klang handle more than 85% of this cargo with 45% of this cargo handled at Colombo Port. The ICTP can ensure India becomes a self reliant nation.

Regional Development: The project has been conceived as a part of the holistic development of Great Nicobar Island.

Other Benefits: It will reduce logistics cost for India (high logistic cost approximately 14 percent of GDP), improve export competitiveness, forex savings, foreign direct investment, employment opportunities and increased economic activity at other Indian Ports.

What is Maritime India vision 2030?

1) Maritime India Vision 2030 focuses on four main areas: increasing capacity, creating top-notch Mega Ports, building transshipment hubs in Southern India and updating infrastructure. 

2) Currently, India has 5 Major Ports and 2 Non-Major Ports that can handle over 100 million tons per year. India sees an opportunity to establish Mega Ports to compete globally. 

3) Three locations – Wadhawan-JNPT Cluster, Paradip Port and Deendayal Port – have been chosen to become Mega Ports capable of handling over 300 million tons per year.

UPSC Syllabus: Initiatives/Economy

Atmospheric Waves Experiment (AWE): How a NASA experiment will study ‘air glow’ to understand Space weather

Source: The post is based on the articleAtmospheric Waves Experiment (AWE):How a NASA experiment will study ‘air glow’ to understand Space weather” published in “Indian Express” on 21st November 2023

Why in the News?

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has launched the Atmospheric Waves Experiment (AWE).

What is the Atmospheric Waves Experiment (AWE)?

Specifications Details
Launched by NASA
Aim To study atmospheric gravity waves to understand how they transport energy into Earth’s upper atmosphere and affect space weather
Planned under NASA’s Heliophysics Explorers Program
Placed on The experiment will be placed on the exterior of the International Space Station (ISS). 
Key Features The experiment will measure airglow at the mesopause (85 to 87 km above Earth).

For this, it will use an Advanced Mesospheric Temperature Mapper (ATMT) to scan the mesopause, mapping the brightness of light at specific wavelengths.

 Significance This study is important due to the increasing reliance on satellite-based services for navigation and communication.

Hence, understanding space weather is crucial for these services to work well.

What is Space Weather?

  1. Space weather refers to the environmental conditions and disturbances in space that can affect Earth and its technological systems.

2) These space weather phenomena include solar flares, coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and solar energetic particle events

3) When these events occur, they can cause disturbances in the Earth’s magnetosphere, ionosphere and thermosphere. This can impact satellite operations, communication systems, power grids and even pose risks to astronauts and high-altitude aircraft.

4) Apart from influences from the Sun-bound emissions, space weather also comes under the impact of terrestrial weather.

What are Atmospheric Gravity Waves (AGW)?

1) Atmospheric Gravity Waves (AGW) are generated when there is an extreme weather event or a sudden disturbance leading to a vertical displacement of stable air.

2) Natural phenomena like thunderstorms, hurricanes, tornadoes, regional orography and others have the potential to create AGWs in the lower levels of the atmosphere.

3) A stable atmosphere is key for generating gravity waves. When stable air gets pushed up and down due to temperature differences, it creates wave patterns.

4) These waves can even reach space and affect space weather. Understanding them better helps us know their impact on weather, climate.

What is Airglow?

1) Airglow is a faint emission of light that occurs high in Earth’s atmosphere.

2) It is caused by various processes in the upper atmosphere of Earth such as the recombination of atoms which were photoionized by the Sun during the day, luminescence caused by cosmic rays striking the upper atmosphere among others.

3) It is not noticeable during the daytime due to the glare and scattering of sunlight.

What is the difference between Airglow and Auroras?

1) Though they appear at similar altitudes, aurora and airglow are produced by different physical processes.
– Airglow is formed due to emission of light from chemical interactions between oxygen, nitrogen, and other molecules in the upper atmosphere.
– Auroras, on the other hand, stem from interactions between solar energy and Earth’s magnetic field. 

2) Unlike auroras, airglow occurs all around the Earth, all the time.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and Technology

Blog
Academy
Community