9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 11th July, 2024

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Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 3

Recent Global Temperature Trends and Climate Change

Source: The post recent global temperature trends and climate change has been created, based on the article “In regular breaches of 1.5 degree Celsius Paris Pact target warnings for a warmer world” published in “Indian express” on 11th July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3-environment-climate change

Context: The article discusses how the global temperature between July 2023 and June 2024 was the highest ever recorded. It highlights the ongoing rise in temperatures and the urgent need for stronger climate adaptation measures. It also notes that India, like many places, is very vulnerable to climate disasters and must improve its response to protect its people.

For detailed information on Global warming Impact on climate in India read this article here

What are the Recent Global Temperature Trends?

  1. The global average temperature between July 2023 and June 2024 was the highest on record. The planet was 1.64 degrees Celsius warmer than pre-industrial levels, according to the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service.
  2. Although this does not mean the Paris Climate Pact’s 1.5 degrees threshold has been breached permanently, as the pact considers decadal averages, it is a significant indicator of warming.
  3. June of last year was the hottest June ever recorded. Although the onset of La Nina might cool some regions temporarily, the overall trend shows a warming climate.

What Are the Current Challenges in Climate Policy?

  1. Global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions have been insufficient, with no clear agreement on which countries should bear the majority of the decarbonization efforts.
  2. The IPCC’s latest reports suggest that current strategies to build resilience against climate change are too small and short-term, focusing mainly on immediate risks.

What is the Situation in India?

  1. Over 80% of India’s population is at risk from climate-related disasters, with many areas having low capacity to adapt.
  2. India has a climate adaptation plan, but frequent natural disasters like landslides, floods, and heat waves show more improvements are needed.
  3. Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore struggle with infrastructure that cannot handle extreme weather, such as heavy rainfall.

Question for practice:

Discuss the recent global temperature trends and the challenges faced by India in addressing climate-related disasters.

Factors affecting food production and its price outlook

Source: The post factors affecting food production and its price outlook has been created, based on the article “The stubborn food inflation problem” published in “Indian express” on 11th July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3-Indian Economy-Inflation

Context: The article discusses how India’s high food prices keep overall inflation high, making it hard for the Reserve Bank of India to lower inflation to their target of 4%. It explains that weather changes, like poor monsoon rains and climate-related events, increase food prices, which needs addressing through better farming methods and infrastructure.

For detailed information on India’s food inflation read this article here

What is the current economic situation in India?

  1. Inflation Dynamics: The overall inflation target by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is 4%, but the actual rate is currently at 4.8%.
  2. Persistent Food Inflation: Food inflation remains high, averaging 6.4% between 2020-21 and 2023-24, which significantly influences overall inflation.
  3. Recent Trends: In 2023-24, while the overall Consumer Price Index (CPI) fell to 5.4%, food inflation increased to 7.5% and further to 8.7% in the early months of the current fiscal year, highlighting the ongoing challenge of controlling food prices.

How significant is food inflation?

  1. High Weight in CPI: Food accounts for nearly 40% of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) basket, making it a significant factor in overall inflation.
  2. Historical Data: In years when CPI was close to the 4% target, food inflation was also low. For example, during 2000-2006, CPI averaged 3.9% with food inflation at 2.5%.
  3. Recent Spike: After the pandemic, food inflation surged to an average of 6.4%, with food prices exceeding 6% for 28 out of 50 months, highlighting its persistent impact on overall inflation levels.

What are the factors affecting food production and its price outlook?

  1. Monsoon Reliability: Traditionally a key determinant of agricultural success, the monsoon’s unpredictability, exacerbated by climate change, affects crop yields.
  2. Water Resources: Heatwaves have depleted groundwater levels, essential for irrigation, affecting crops like wheat and impacting dairy and poultry outputs.
  3. Crop Damage: Unseasonal rains have damaged crops during critical harvesting and transportation stages, leading to increased food prices.
  4. Global Warming Effects: Events like El Niño, intensified by global warming, have resulted in significant weather anomalies, influencing food production negatively.

What should be done to control climate change’s impact on food?

  1. Enhance Agricultural Infrastructure: Upgrade facilities from production to storage and transportation to better withstand climate impacts.
  2. Develop Climate-Resistant Crops: Promote and expand the use of heat-resistant and drought-tolerant crop varieties to maintain productivity under changing climate conditions.
  3. Increase Irrigation Coverage: Expand irrigation infrastructure to ensure water availability even during adverse weather conditions, with only 57% of agriculture currently covered.
  4. Boost Research and Development: Increase investment in agricultural R&D, currently at just 0.5% of agriculture GDP, to innovate better farming practices and technologies.
  5. Improve Food Processing and Storage: Encourage development in food processing and cold storage to reduce wastage and stabilize supply chains.

Question for practice:

Discuss how the increasing severity of climate change impacts food inflation in India.

India’s GST system needs further reform

Source: The post India’s GST system needs further reform has been created, based on the article “Towards a good and simple tax” published in “Business standard” on 11th July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- Indian Economy – Issues relating to mobilization of resources.

Context: The article discusses the need for further reforms in India’s GST system. It highlights increased revenue but points out that more changes are needed to reduce distortions, simplify rates, and expand the tax base to improve efficiency and compliance.

For detailed information on Understanding GST revenue performance read this article here

What is the current status of GST revenue?

  1. GST has replaced 14 indirect taxes, leading to a streamlined tax system.

2.In April 2024, GST collections reached a record high of ₹22.1 trillion, marking a 15.5% increase compared to the previous year.

  1. For the first quarter of the financial year, GST revenues were ₹85.57 trillion, slightly higher than the ₹85.05 trillion collected in the same period last year.
  2. This represents a 10.2% growth in GST collections, surpassing the estimated nominal GDP growth.
  3. Such growth in revenues is attributed to robust economic performance and enhanced compliance facilitated by improved tax administration and technology integration.

What changes are required for a better GST system?

  1. Expand the GST Base: Include sectors like petroleum products, electricity, and real estate in the GST. Currently, petroleum products are excluded due to their significant contribution to state revenues (over 40%), but their inclusion could reduce the cascading effect of taxes on other sectors.
  2. Rationalize Rates: Reduce the number of GST rates to simplify the system. For instance, merging the 12% and 18% rates into a 16% rate could be revenue neutral, while increasing the items taxed at 5% to 8% could enhance revenue without major disruptions.
  3. Limit Exemptions: Exemptions should be confined to unprocessed foods and perishables. Taxing other items, previously exempted, at a lower rate of 8% can broaden the tax base and increase revenue without impacting price stability significantly.
  4. Focus on Major Taxpayers: By keeping thresholds high, the system can concentrate on larger taxpayers. Data from Karnataka shows that although 93% of GST dealers were small businesses, they accounted for only a small portion of the turnover and tax paid. This approach ensures that compliance efforts are efficiently targeted.

Question for practice:

Examine the current status and required changes for a better GST system in India based on recent revenue performance and proposed reforms.

Reasons and solutions for floods in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India

Reasons and solutions for floods in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India

Source: The post reasons and solutions for floods in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India has been created, based on the article “India’s response to urban floods needs an indepth study of causes” published in “Live mints” on 11th July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3-Disaster and disaster management.

Context: The article discusses the recurring issue of flash floods in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India. It traces the problem back to historical flood patterns and modern urban development, suggesting long-term solutions to manage and mitigate flooding, rather than completely preventing it. Reasons and solutions for floods in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India.

For detailed information on Urban Flooding in India read this article here

What are the reasons for floods in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India?

  1. Historical Patterns: Traditionally, the Indo-Gangetic floodplain, where the NCR is located, experienced quick floods that receded fast, enhancing soil fertility.
  2. Developmental Changes: Early public works during British rule, like building canals and railways with embankments, disrupted natural drainage patterns.
  3. Urbanization: Rapid city expansion has led to increased waterlogging, exacerbated by blocked drainage and inadequate infrastructure.
  4. Geographical Features: The NCR’s location on a flat floodplain far from the sea limits natural water drainage options.
  5. Climate Factors: Excessive rainfall quickly saturates the ground and phreatic water table, leading to overflow since the extra water cannot be absorbed or drained away efficiently.

What are the Long-Term Solutions for It?

  1. Upstream Reservoirs: Building reservoirs in the hills to regulate river flow and mitigate downstream flooding.
  2. Enhancing Water Storage: Increasing the area and capacity of ponds, wells, lakes, and other water-harvesting structures to hold excess water during the monsoon.
  3. Reducing Impervious Surfaces: Minimizing concrete and asphalt cover in urban areas to enhance the natural recharge of sub-surface water.
  4. Improving Drainage Systems: Clearing and maintaining natural drainage paths and designing urban infrastructure to prevent water accumulation in low-lying areas.
  5. Regular Maintenance: Ensuring that drainage systems are free of obstructions to maintain efficient water flow.

Question for practice:

Discuss the factors contributing to recurring flash floods in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India and propose long-term solutions to manage and mitigate this issue.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Equity Mutual Funds

Source- This post on the Equity Mutual Funds has been created based on the article “Equity Mutual Funds” published in “Economic Times” on 11 July 2024.

Why in the news?

The Association of Mutual Funds in India (Amfi) recently reported that inflows into India’s equity mutual funds reached a record high of Rs 40,608 crore (about $5 billion) in June, marking a 17% sequential increase.

About Equity Mutual Funds

1. About: Equity mutual funds are investment vehicles that collect money from multiple investors to buy a portfolio of stocks, also known as equity securities.

2. Purpose: They allow individuals to invest in a diversified collection of stocks managed by professionals.

3. Benefits of Equity Mutual Funds:

i) Professional Management: These funds are managed by experts who make investment decisions on behalf of the investors.

ii) Diversification: By holding stocks from various companies, equity funds reduce the risk associated with any single stock’s poor performance.

4. Types of Equity Funds:

i) Actively Managed Funds: These funds have portfolio managers who actively research, analyze, and select stocks with the goal of outperforming a benchmark index (e.g., the S&P 500). They charge higher fees due to their hands-on approach.

ii) Passively Managed Funds (Index Funds): These funds aim to replicate the performance of a specific market index (e.g., S&P 500) by holding the same stocks in the same proportions. They have lower fees and track the index closely without trying to outperform it

4. Risk and Returns:

i) Long-Term Growth: Equity funds can offer attractive long-term returns, making them a popular choice for investors with longer time horizons.

ii) Market Volatility: The value of equity funds can fluctuate due to stock market changes, posing a risk to investors.

iii) Suitability: Best suited for investors who can tolerate market ups and downs and are investing for the long term to maximize growth potential.

UPSC Syllabus: Indian Economy

Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve

Source- This post on the Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve has been created based on the article “Madhya Pradesh launches probe into alleged irregularities poaching in new tiger reserve” published in “The week” on 11 July 2024.

Why in the news?

The Madhya Pradesh government has launched an inquiry into allegations of tiger poaching and irregularities in the newly established Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve.

About Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve

Madhya Pradesh's Largest Tiger Reserve Veerangana Durgavati May Come ...
Source: medianews18.com
Aspects  Description
About 1. The reserve spans across Sagar, Damoh, and Narsinghpur districts in Madhya Pradesh.
2. It covers a vast area of 2,339 square kilometers, incorporating regions from the Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary and Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary.
3. It is the seventh tiger reserve in Madhya Pradesh. It is named after Rani Durgavati, the queen of the Gondi people.
Features 1. The reserve features a variety of landscapes, including hills, valleys, rivers, streams, waterfalls, and grasslands.
2. A green corridor will be developed to link the Panna Tiger Reserve with Durgavati, facilitating the natural movement of tigers between the reserves.
3. It includes parts of the Narmada and Yamuna River basins.
The historic Singorgarh Fort is located within the reserve.
Vegetation The vegetation is primarily dry deciduous.
Fauna Key plant species include Teak, Saja, Dhaora, Ber, and Amla.
Flora 1. The reserve is home to tigers, leopards, wolves, jackals, Indian foxes, striped hyenas, Nilgai, Chinkara, Chital, Sambhar, Black Buck, Barking deer, Common Langur, and Rhesus Macaque.
2. It is one of the few places where the critically endangered White-Rumped and Indian Vultures are found.
Importance of the Reserve 1. As the seventh tiger reserve in Madhya Pradesh, it plays a crucial role in protecting and conserving tigers.
2. The reserve supports a wide range of flora and fauna, contributing to the region’s ecological balance.
3. The presence of Singorgarh Fort and the reserve’s name honor the historical and cultural significance of the area.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment

India’s Deep Drilling Project in Maharashtra

Source- This post on the India’s Deep Drilling Project in Maharashtra has been created based on the article “Why is India drilling a 6-km deep hole in Maharashtra?” published in “The Hindu” on 11 July 2024.

Why in the news?

India is conducting a deep-drilling project in Karad, Maharashtra.

India’s Deep Drilling Project in Maharashtra

scientific deep drilling
Source: TH

1.  India is conducting a deep-drilling project in Karad, Maharashtra, under the Borehole Geophysics Research Laboratory (BGRL) to study reservoir-triggered earthquakes in the Koyna-Warna region.

2.  The goal is to drill a 6-km deep borehole to gather data on earthquakes and the Earth’s crust.

About Scientific deep-drilling Technique

1. Scientific deep-drilling involves strategically digging boreholes to examine the deeper layers of the Earth’s crust.

2. This process provides opportunities to study earthquakes and enhances our understanding of the planet’s history, rock formations, energy resources, life forms, climate change patterns, and more.

3. Importance of Deep Drilling

i) Earthquake Study: Deep drilling allows scientists to directly observe and study the Earth’s interior, helping understand and predict earthquakes, especially those in the interior of tectonic plates.

ii) Comprehensive Analysis: It provides insights into rock types, geological history, energy resources, and climate change.

4. Techniques and Methods

i) Drilling Strategy: A hybrid of mud rotary drilling and air hammering is used.

ii) Mud Rotary Drilling: Uses a rotating rod with a diamond drill bit, cooled by drilling mud, which also brings rock cuttings to the surface.

iii) Air Hammering: Uses compressed air to deepen the borehole and remove debris.

iv) Drilling Equipment: The project uses a rig capable of both techniques, adjusting methods based on rock type and other conditions.

5. Challenges

i) The Earth’s interior is hot, dark, and high-pressure, making long-term drilling difficult.

ii) Issues include maintaining drilling pressure, handling rock cores, and dealing with water inflow and fault zones.

iii) Skilled personnel are required for continuous, on-site engagement for extended periods.

6. Findings and Benefits

i) The pilot borehole revealed ancient Deccan trap lava flows and granitic basement rocks. Measurements provided data on rock properties, fluid composition, temperature, stress regimes, and fracture orientations.

ii)  Acoustic and micro-resistivity techniques captured detailed images of the borehole wall.

iii)  Water was found at a depth of 3 km, indicating deep percolation. The region is critically stressed, meaning even small stress changes can trigger earthquakes.

7. Future Prospects

i)  Data from the pilot borehole will guide future drilling. Researchers are studying rock samples to understand earthquake mechanics and microbial life in extreme environments.

ii)  Global researchers are interested in using the core samples for studies, including carbon capture and storage.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology

India-Russia Summit- Key Takeaways

Source- This post on the India-Russia Summit Key Takeaways has been created based on the article “Russia, India agree to go ahead with trade in national currency: diplomat” published in “The Hindu” on 11 July 2024.

Why in the news?

Recently, India and Russia have decided to establish a system for national currency settlement.

Key Takeaway from two-day visit to Russia

1. India and Russia have agreed to establish a national currency settlement system, enhancing bilateral trade by avoiding reliance on third-party currencies.

2. Russia is the fourth largest trading partner of India. The discussions during the visit focused on economic aspects, with significant growth in trade, particularly in the energy sector, following Western sanctions on Russia.

3. The issue of Indian nationals fraudulently recruited into the Russian fighting forces was addressed.

UPSC Syllabus: International Relations

India’s Role in the 132nd IMO Council Session in London

Source- This post on the India’s Role in the 132nd IMO Council Session in London has been created based on the article “India Leads Global Maritime Discourse at IMO Council Session in London” published in “PIB” on 11 July 2024.

Why in the news?

Recently, 132nd session of the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) was conducted in London.

India’s Role in the 132nd IMO Council Session in London

IMO Council Session
Source: PIB

1. India is actively participating in the 132nd session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council in London.

2. India is an elected member of the IMO Council in the category of countries with the largest interest in international seaborne trade, emphasized the urgent issue of seafarer abandonment.

3. Other proposed members include the Philippines, Thailand, Liberia, Panama, Greece, the US, and France.

Key Focus Areas for India at the IMO Session

1. Addressing Seafarer Abandonment: India raised awareness about the ongoing crisis of seafarer abandonment, with 44 active cases involving 292 Indian seafarers. India was chosen to be part of the Joint Tripartite Working Group at the IMO, which consists of eight nations. This group focuses on addressing seafarer issues and enhancing the human elements in maritime operations.

2. Maritime Security Initiatives: The Indian delegation discussed recent disruptions in maritime regions like the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The Indian Navy’s successful missions were highlighted, including the rescue of MV Marlyn Luanda and intercepting MV Ruen to combat piracy and ensure crew safety.

3. India reinforced its proposal for establishing the South Asian Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Maritime Transport (SACE-SMarT). The center aims to lead the transformation of the maritime sector in South Asia, focusing on technological advancements, sustainability, and digital proficiency. Key goals include reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing regional maritime capabilities.

UPSC Syllabus: International organisation

Supreme Court’s Decision on Maintenance for Divorced Muslim Women

Source- This post on the Supreme Court’s Decision on Maintenance for Divorced Muslim Women has been created based on the article “Decoding Supreme Court’s verdict on divorced Muslim women’s right to maintenance under Section 125 CrPC “ published in “The Hindu” on 11 July 2024.

Why in the news?

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court has stated that entitlements provided under Section 125 of the CrPC constitute a form of social security that functions autonomously from any remedies available under Muslim personal laws.

About Supreme Court’s Decision on Maintenance for Divorced Muslim Women

1. Legal Entitlement to Maintenance:

i)  The Supreme Court affirmed that all married and divorced women, including those divorced under “triple talaq”, are entitled to claim maintenance under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).

ii)  This entitlement exists irrespective of personal laws and is a measure for social justice to prevent destitution.

2. Relationship with the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986:

i) Complementary Rights: The rights provided under the 1986 Act do not override the right to claim maintenance under Section 125 CrPC. Both sets of rights can be invoked independently.

ii) Constitutional Validity: Upheld the constitutional validity of both Section 125 CrPC and the 1986 Act, ensuring that Muslim women are not deprived of their rights under either law.

3. Constitutional Principles Upheld:

i) Non-discrimination: Emphasized that denying maintenance under Section 125 CrPC to divorced Muslim women would violate Article 15(1) of the Constitution, which prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion.

ii) Social Justice: Maintenance under Section 125 CrPC is seen as critical for ensuring a life of dignity for women, regardless of their marital status or religious background.

4. Scope and Application:

i) Timing of Claim: It was clarified that the right to maintenance under Section 125 CrPC can be claimed even during the subsistence of marriage and is not contingent upon divorce.

ii) Wide Application: It applies to all women who are unable to maintain themselves, including divorced Muslim women who may face financial hardship post-divorce.

5. Judicial Interpretation and Legislative Intent:

i) Harmonization of Laws: The Court interpreted the provisions of both laws (CrPC and 1986 Act) in a manner that ensures protection and justice for divorced Muslim women, aligning with broader constitutional principles.

ii) Avoiding Remedial Gaps: Ensured that all divorced Muslim women, regardless of how their marriage was solemnized, can seek maintenance under Section 125 CrPC to prevent any legal gaps in protective measures.

UPSC Syllabus: Polity and nation

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