9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 12th December, 2024
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Mains Oriented Articles
GS PAPER - 1
Vaikom Struggle
Source: The post the Vaikom Struggle has been created, based on the article “Vaikom — two States, two leaders and a tale of reform” published in “The Hindu” on 12th December 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 1- Indian History
Context: The article delves into the socio-political and historical significance of the Vaikom Struggle, which marks its centenary in 2024.
What was the Vaikom Struggle, and why was it significant?
- The Vaikom Struggle was a socio-political movement in the 1920s against the prohibition of backward caste Hindus from walking on streets near the Vaikom Mahadeva temple in Travancore princely state.
- It marked a landmark moment for religious reform and social justice in India, setting the stage for future mass movements advocating equality.
How did the struggle evolve into a mass movement?
- Initially led by leaders of the Kerala State Congress Committee and social activists, the movement gained momentum when Periyar E.V. Ramasamy joined in 1924.
- His involvement galvanized people across classes, ultimately leading to the removal of these restrictions in November 1925.
What were the wider consequences of the Vaikom Struggle?
- The movement inspired similar efforts nationwide, such as B.R. Ambedkar’s temple entry protests at Ambadevi Temple and Kalaram Mandir.
- In South India, legislative actions like the 1932 Bill for temple entry, Travancore Temple Entry Proclamation (1936), and the Madras Temple Entry Authorization Act (1947) progressively dismantled caste-based restrictions in temples.
How did these reforms pave the way for modern legislation?
These movements and legislative acts created a precedent for incorporating religious reforms into the Constitution. B.R. Ambedkar’s addition of the phrase “subject to public order, morality, and health” in Article 25 enabled the state to intervene in religious practices to ensure equality.
Can the state regulate religion without compromising secularism?
- Yes, state regulation of religion is aimed at ensuring equality and access in public spaces like temples.
- Laws such as the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, 1959, and judicial rulings (e.g., Shirur Mutt case, 1954) have upheld the state’s role in managing secular aspects of temples while respecting essential religious practices.
How is the centenary of the Vaikom Struggle being commemorated?
- On December 12, 2024, Tamil Nadu and Kerala governments are jointly celebrating the centenary to honor the movement’s legacy.
- This event highlights the collaboration between two states and commemorates the contributions of leaders like Periyar and B.R. Ambedkar in advancing social reform.
What is the enduring significance of the Vaikom Struggle?
- The struggle symbolizes the fight for social justice and equality, reaffirming the reformist trajectory in South India.
- It serves as a reminder of the collective efforts required to challenge caste-based oppression and bring about meaningful change.
GS PAPER - 2
Why Chief Justices Need Longer Tenures?
Source: The post the Chief Justices Need Longer Tenures has been created, based on the article “Chief Justices need longer tenures” published in “The Hindu” on 12th December 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS 2- Polity and governance
Context: The article discusses the persistent issue of short tenures for Chief Justices in Indian High Courts, a problem that undermines the institutional effectiveness and operational efficiency of the judiciary. Why Chief Justices Need Longer Tenures? It highlights recent examples, explores the critical role of a Chief Justice, and provides a historical comparison to emphasize the need for longer tenures.
Why are short tenures of Chief Justices a concern?
Short tenures limit the ability of Chief Justices to effectively manage their responsibilities. They often retire before fully understanding the institution they lead, which impacts the overall efficiency and innovation within the judiciary.
Why is a Chief Justice’s role critical?
The Chief Justice oversees:
- Administrative and financial health of the High Court.
- Recommendations for judgeship appointments.
- Formation of various committees.
- Staff welfare and disciplinary actions.
- Representation of the judiciary at seminars, symposia, and bar associations.
- Legal education and engagement with advocate associations.
- Judicial responsibilities as the State’s top authority.
Are the challenges similar across all High Courts?
- No, the challenges vary significantly across High Courts depending on their location and specific requirements.
- Understanding these unique needs demands time, which short tenures do not allow.
What have experts and judges said about this issue?
- Justice L. Nageswara Rao of the Supreme Court stated that judges elevated to the apex court need a minimum of 7-8 years, if not 10, to settle into their roles.
- Chief Justices with brief tenures have echoed similar concerns, lamenting their inability to initiate reforms or improvements due to limited time.
Was this always the case?
No, during British rule, Chief Justices typically had longer tenures. For instance:
- Between 1862 and 1947, the Madras High Court had only 11 Chief Justices, averaging 8 years per tenure.
- In contrast, from 1947 to 2012, the Court had 24 Chief Justices in 65 years, averaging only 75 years. Excluding long-serving Chief Justices P.V. Rajamannar (13 years) and Veeraswami K. (7 years), the average drops to just over 2 years.
Why does this issue need urgent attention?
Short tenures leave little room for innovation, reform, and systemic improvement. The increasing complexity of a Chief Justice’s duties makes prolonged tenures essential for meaningful contributions.
What can be done to address this problem?
- The solution requires joint deliberation among stakeholders, including the Bar, to design measures ensuring longer and more effective tenures for Chief Justices.
- This needs to be prioritized before it deeply impacts the judiciary’s institutional health.
The Assisted Dying Law in Britain
Source: The post the Assisted Dying Law in Britain has been created, based on the article “The long and complex road to assisted dying” published in “The Hindu” on 12th December 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper II: Governance – Issues relating to health, human rights, and the ethical governance of public policies.
Context: The article discusses the introduction and debates surrounding the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2024-25, also known as the Assisted Dying Law, in the United Kingdom. The Assisted Dying Law in Britain, It sheds light on the broader ethical, legal, and philosophical questions tied to the right to die, framed by recent developments in Britain and comparisons to global practices.
What is the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2024-25?
- The Bill, also known as the Assisted Dying Law, allows terminally ill adults in England and Wales with less than six months to live to seek assistance in ending their lives. The process requires approval from two doctors and a High Court judge.
- The Bill aims to address such situations by allowing a dignified choice for terminally ill individuals.
- The Bill has tight controls, including independent medical assessments, reflection periods, and judicial oversight, to ensure the process is not abused.
Why is assisted dying such a complex issue?
The debate revolves around fundamental ethical, legal, and societal questions. It pits the right to personal autonomy and dignity against concerns about potential abuse and societal values around the sanctity of life.
What are the primary arguments against assisted dying?
- Slippery Slope Argument: Critics argue that once allowed, the scope of assisted dying could expand, leading to abuse, particularly against vulnerable groups like the elderly and disabled.
- Concerns from Canada: Canada’s law, initially limited to foreseeable death, has expanded to include those with grievous medical conditions, diluting its original boundaries.
- Philosophical and Religious Objections: Critics see the law as a threat to the sanctity of life and claim it is disguised as compassion but undermines the inviolability of life.
How do proponents respond to the criticism?
- Carefully Drafted Legislation: The Bill only permits assisted dying for competent adults with terminal illnesses, requiring assessments by two doctors, a 14-day reflection period, and High Court approval.
- Respect for Autonomy: Proponents argue the law upholds personal liberty, allowing individuals to make decisions about their own lives and alleviate unbearable suffering.
- Ethical Justification: Supporters contend that preventing terminally ill patients from seeking relief violates their dignity and autonomy.
What universal lessons can be drawn from Britain’s debate?
- The discussions underscore the importance of balancing ethical concerns with personal dignity.
- The debates highlight the need for clear laws to prevent abuse while respecting individual autonomy and freedom.
- Assisted dying laws must balance personal freedom with societal ethics.
What is India’s position on assisted dying?
- India recognizes a limited right to die, allowing passive euthanasia and advance medical directives per the Supreme Court’s Common Cause vs. Union of India (2018) judgment.
- This right is grounded in liberty, privacy, and dignity but does not yet extend to active assisted dying.
Why is the right to assisted dying important?
- The ability to choose to end unbearable suffering respects human dignity and autonomy, core principles of a meaningful life.
- While laws must include safeguards, they cannot ignore the fundamental right of individuals to decide on matters of life and death.
GS PAPER - 3
Why Government Interventions in Monetary Policy Won’t Spur Growth
Source: The post the Why Government Interventions in Monetary Policy Won’t Spur Growth has been created, based on the article “Pressuring the RBI to lower the interest rate isn’t going to solve the problem” published in “Indian Express” on 12th December 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS 3 Syllabus – Indian Economy and issues relating to Planning, Mobilization of Resources, Growth, Development and Employment.
Context: The article addresses the ongoing debate about the role of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in steering economic growth amidst slowing growth rates and rising inflation. It critiques recent public statements made by India’s Commerce and Finance Ministers that subtly pressurize the RBI to lower interest rates to spur economic activity. Why Government Interventions in Monetary Policy Won’t Spur Growth?
What recent developments have prompted a debate on RBI’s autonomy?
- Recent statements by India’s Commerce and Finance Ministers have indirectly suggested that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) should lower interest rates, indicating government concerns over slowing growth.
- Quarterly growth rates have been declining since April 2024, even though the GDP growth rate in 2023-24 was a historic 8.2%.
Why is this a significant issue?
The central question revolves around whether the government should interfere with the RBI’s functioning and whether the RBI can significantly influence current economic growth.
Is government interference in RBI’s functioning appropriate?
- No, it is inappropriate for the government to interfere.
- The RBI operates independently under its board, which is appointed with government involvement.
- Once appointed, the board should act autonomously, in line with the principle of separation of powers.
What is the RBI’s primary mandate since 2016?
- The RBI’s main mandate is to control inflation, with a target of 4%, as set by the government.
- Publicly pressuring the RBI to act differently undermines its credibility as an independent institution.
How has economic growth been recently?
- Real GDP grew by 6% in the first half of 2024-25, compared to 8.2% in the first half of 2023-24.
- Manufacturing growth dropped to 4.5% from 9.6% over the same period.
Is the RBI capable of stimulating growth in this scenario?
- No, the RBI’s tools, such as interest rate adjustments, are unlikely to stimulate growth when the core issue lies in weak demand.
- Lowering interest rates will not prompt firms to increase production if they do not anticipate higher sales.
- Firms expand production based on rising demand, not lower borrowing costs.
- A reduction in interest rates is a supply-side solution, but the current issue is a demand-side problem.
What has been proposed regarding food inflation?
- The Commerce Minister and Chief Economic Advisor suggested excluding food inflation from the official inflation index.
- High food inflation (above 10% in October 2024) reduces consumer spending on non-food items, negatively impacting manufacturing.
- Ignoring food inflation without addressing its causes is equivalent to abandoning inflation control.
Nehru’s Economic Vision and Its Impact on India
Source: The post the Nehru’s Economic Vision and Its Impact on India has been created, based on the article “How Nehru’s vision hobbled India’s economy” published in “Indian Express” on 12th December 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- Indian Economy
Context: The article critically analyzes the economic policies of India under Jawaharlal Nehru. It argues that Nehru’s vision of economic development, while well-intentioned, ultimately had a stifling effect on India’s economic growth and development. Nehru Economic Vision and Its Impact on India
How did Nehru’s early political views influence his economic policies?
Nehru’s early views were radical, incorporating aspects of communism such as nationalization and collective farming. However, he moderated his stance during the 1930s and 1940s due to resistance from colleagues like Sardar Patel.
What were Nehru’s primary objectives for India’s economy?
Nehru aimed to eradicate poverty and achieve self-sufficiency through an emphasis on heavy industry and modern technology. Despite acknowledging the employment potential of small industries and agriculture, most capital was allocated to heavy industries.
What were the key instruments of Nehru’s economic policies?
These included:
- Five-Year Plans (especially the Second Plan, which solidified his vision).
- Expansion of the public sector.
- Licensing of private industries.
- Import restrictions and tariffs.
- Price and distribution controls.
- Emphasis on technical education over primary education.
What was the role of the Planning Commission and industrialists?
The Planning Commission’s Panel of Economists largely endorsed the Nehru-Mahalanobis approach. Initially, even industrialists supported facets of the plan but grew critical after hasty nationalization and economic crises.
How did economists like B.R. Shenoy and Milton Friedman critique Nehru’s policies?
- R. Shenoy: Warned that excessive development beyond available resources would lead to inflation and socio-economic instability.
- Milton Friedman: Criticized exchange controls, licensing systems, and subsidies as major obstacles to India’s economic growth.
What was the impact of India’s import and export policies?
India’s import regime was marked by inefficiencies, lack of foreign exchange allocation criteria, and a controlled investment system. Export policies stifled India’s global trade presence, leading to a decline in market shares of key products like tea and jute.
What were the economic outcomes of Nehru’s strategies?
- Per-capita GDP rose by only 2% between 1951-52 and 1963-64.
- Heavy industries grew significantly, but agriculture and consumer goods industries stagnated.
- India’s share in global exports fell from 2.5% in 1947 to 0.9% in 1966.
- Food production lagged behind demand, necessitating the Green Revolution.
How did socialism influence subsequent decades?
Nehru’s socialist policies entrenched a bureaucratic hesitation towards market-oriented reforms, delaying India’s economic liberalization until 1991.
Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)
Bluetooth Low Energy Gateway
News: Recently, iHub-AWaDH (Agriculture and Water Technology Development Hub) at the Indian Institute of Technology Ropar unveiled the state of art Bluetooth Low Energy Gateway and Node System.
About Bluetooth Low Energy Gateway
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- It is a cost-effective system that connects Bluetooth enabled sensors to cloud platforms.
- It is equipped with advanced data security to revolutionise Internet of Things (IoT) applications across various sectors like agriculture, logistics and environmental resilience.
Key Features of the BLE Gateway
- It offers 4G, Wi-Fi, and LAN compatibility for flexible networking, ensuring robust connectivity.
- It features long range communication, supporting data transmission up to 1 km in line-of-sight (LOS) scenarios.
- It provides data aggregation, collecting and processing data from multiple connectivity nodes.
- It has wireless connectivity, which reduces installation costs and supports remote deployment.
- It displays compatibility, supporting integration with mobile apps, cloud platforms and diverse sensors.
- It has low power consumption, delivering energy efficient performance for prolonged operation.
Applications
Agriculture
Logistics
Smart Cities and Industrial Sites
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AgeXtend
News: Researchers at IIIT-Delhi have developed AgeXtend to identify molecules with age defying properties. The research has been published in the journal ‘Nature Aging’.
About AgeXtend
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- It is a platform based on Artificial Intelligence to discover molecules that promote healthy ageing.
- It has been developed by researchers at Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Delhi (IIIT-Delhi).
- Its aim is to identify molecules with age defying properties (geroprotectors), promoting healthy aging and longevity.
About the study
- The researchers screened over 1.1 billion compounds over a period of two years.
- Experiments were conducted on yeasts, worms (C. Elegans) and human cell models.
- The AI module evaluates geroprotective potential of molecules, assesses their safety and biological effects, ensuring both accuracy and safety.
- It is the largest study on the subject so far and involved scanning compounds from commercial drugs, Chinese drugs, Ayurveda and FDI approved molecules.
- The study also explored natural metabolites from the human microbiome and their potential role in combating cellular senescence.
Caspian Sea
News: Kazakhstan state owned energy company said that it had decontaminated Soviet-era oil waste on the shores of the Caspian Sea, which has been reeling under the effects of pollution and global warning.
About Caspian Sea
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- It is the largest inland body of water in the world by surface area.
- It is located between Europe and Asia– to the east of Caucasus and west of the broad steppe of Central Asia.
- Bordering Countries: Russia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Turkmenistan, and Kazakhstan.
- Caspian Sea is primarily watered by three major rivers: Volga, Ural and Terek River.
- It has fresh water in its northern parts and saline water in its southern parts.
- It has a mean salinity of about a third of the salinity of average seawater.
C-14 Diamond Battery
News: Scientists from the University of Bristol and the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) have developed the world’s first Carbon-14 diamond battery.
About Carbon 14 Diamond Battery
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- It employs the radioactive decay of Carbon-14, which has a half-life of 5,700 years, to generate electricity.
- It is placed in a case of diamond, providing it with strength and resilience.
- The diamond encasing ensures that short range radiation emitted by Carbon 14 does not leak.
- The battery works like a solar panel, but instead of using photons (light particle), it captures fast moving electrons from within the diamond structure to generate electricity.
Potential Applications
Healthcare
Space missions
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