9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 16 March, 2024

Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 2

Questions raised by making the Electoral Bonds scheme public: Five Facts, Five Takeaways

Source: The post questions raised by making the Electoral Bonds scheme public has been created, based on the article “Five Facts, Five Takeaways” published in “Times of India” on 16th March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 Governance – Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability.

News: The article discusses the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down the Electoral Bonds scheme as unconstitutional. It highlights the need for transparency in political donations and raises concerns about the potential for corruption and unfair advantages in elections.

What are the facts and questions raised by making the Electoral Bonds scheme public?

Unconstitutional Scheme: The Supreme Court declared the Electoral Bonds scheme unconstitutional due to its lack of transparency.

High Volume of Funds: ₹12,679 crore in bonds were purchased, with ₹12,155 crore used by political parties. This highlights the scale of political funding involved.

Dominant Party Beneficiary: The Bharatiya Janata Party received over ₹6,000 crore, significantly more than other parties.

Donor Anonymity: Most donors are private, unlisted companies. For example, Future Gaming and Hotel Services Pvt Ltd was a top donor. This raises questions about the transparency of donor identities.

Financial Discrepancies: Some companies donated beyond their financial capacity, like a company donating ₹90 crore with net profits under ₹250 crore, questioning the motive behind such donations.

Potential Quid Pro Quo: Concerns arise about possible favors exchanged for donations, needing further investigation into donor-recipient relationships.

Integrity of Politics: The massive funds required for elections suggest difficulties for ordinary citizens to participate in politics, questioning the fairness and inclusivity of the political system.

For more information on Issues in Electoral Funding in India read article1, article 2

What should be done?

Implement Transparency: Introduce clear guidelines for disclosing donor identities and donation amounts, addressing the opaqueness criticized by the Supreme Court.

Monitor Donor Backgrounds: Scrutinize donors, especially private, unlisted companies like Future Gaming and Hotel Services Pvt Ltd, to understand their financial capabilities and motives.

Ensure Fair Political Funding: Address the imbalance shown by the ₹6,000 crore received by the Bharatiya Janata Party, aiming for equitable distribution among parties.

Investigate Quid Pro Quo Scenarios: Thoroughly investigate potential favors exchanged for donations, ensuring political integrity.

Reform Election Spending: Reform how campaign funds are spent, promoting legal and ethical practices to foster clean elections.

Question for practice:

Evaluate the impact of the Supreme Court’s decision on the Electoral Bonds scheme in terms of political transparency and election integrity in India.

Concerns related to the ONOE Policy: The case against One Nation, One Election

Source: The post concerns related to the ONOE Policy has been created, based on the article “The case against One Nation, One Election” published in “Indian express” on 16th March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- polity-Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.

News: The article discusses a proposal in India for holding all elections at the same time. It mentions various concerns and opinions about this idea, including its impact on democracy, federalism, and the election process.

For details information on One Nation, One Election (ONOE) read here

What are the recommendations of the High-Level Committee on the One Nation, One Election (ONOE) Policy?

Two-Phased Strategy: The Committee suggests implementing ONOE in two phases across all government levels.

Amending the Constitution: They propose changing Articles 83 and 172 to enable simultaneous elections without needing state approval.

Handling Early Dissolutions: If an assembly is dissolved early, new elections should only be for the remaining term.

Preventing Constitutional Conflicts: They acknowledge the current Constitution guarantees a five-year term for each assembly, which this plan would alter.

For information on Kovind panel on One Nation, One Election read here

What are the concerns related to the ONOE Policy?

Federalism and Local Issues: Combining elections may blur distinctions between national and local concerns, possibly neglecting local needs.

Constitutional Challenges: The policy might conflict with the Constitution’s provision for a five-year term for elected assemblies.

State Opposition: Tamil Nadu’s government has strongly opposed ONOE, labeling it undemocratic and autocratic.

Election Commission’s Neutrality: Recent events raise doubts about the Election Commission of India’s independence, crucial for managing fair elections.

Logistical Feasibility: Questions exist about the practicality of conducting simultaneous elections nationwide, considering the requirements for security, officials, and voting machines.

What does the Supreme Court say?

Basic Structure Doctrine: The Supreme Court, in past rulings like Kesavananda Bharati vs State of Kerala, emphasized the Constitution’s basic structure, which includes free and fair elections.

Democracy as a Constitutional Feature: The Court, through the Indira Gandhi vs Raj Narain case, affirmed that democracy, with impartial elections, is a fundamental constitutional aspect.

Judicial Review Role: In a recent case involving Chandigarh’s mayoral election, the Supreme Court showed readiness to intervene in electoral processes if they appear constitutionally unsound.

Potential Review of ONOE: The Supreme Court’s past decisions suggest it will closely scrutinize ONOE for constitutionality, focusing on maintaining democratic principles.

Question for practice:

Examine the factors influencing the feasibility and potential challenges of implementing the One Nation, One Election (ONOE) policy in India.

GS PAPER - 3

Severe water shortage in Bengaluru: Express View on Bengaluru’s looming water crisis: The warning

Source: The post severe water shortage in Bengaluru has been created, based on the article “Express View on Bengaluru’s looming water crisis: The warning”published in “Indian express” on 16th March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- Environment- Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation,

News: The article discusses the severe water shortage in Bengaluru, Karnataka, due to drought. It explains how the city’s water sources, like lakes, have been polluted and mismanaged. The situation warns other Indian cities about the need for better water management.

For details information on Water Crisis in India read here

What is the current water situation in Bengaluru?

Bengaluru is experiencing its worst drought in 40 years, leading to a critical water shortage. The city requires 2,600-2,800 million liters of water daily for its nearly 14 million residents but is only able to supply about half of this. The shortage has affected schools, hospitals, and industries. Many of the city’s over 13,000 borewells have dried up, with nearly 7,000 no longer functional.

What caused this water crisis?

Rapid Urbanization: Bengaluru expanded into the country’s IT capital, leading to the loss of water sources. Lakes, once crucial for the city’s water needs, were neglected.

Environmental Mismanagement: Developers cleared green spaces and lake catchments became dumping sites for waste and debris.

Groundwater Depletion: Excessive construction made groundwater recharge difficult. About 7,000 of over 13,000 borewells have dried up.

Pollution of Water Bodies: A study by the Environmental Management and Policy Research Institute revealed 85% of Bengaluru’s water bodies are severely polluted.

Ignoring Warnings: Successive governments overlooked several alarms about the deteriorating water situation.

What are the concerns related to the water crisis?

1.Studies Niti Aayog’s Composite Water Management Index (CWMI) in 2018 predict that many cities will face similar water shortages by 2030 if no action is taken.

For information on Niti Aayog’s Composite Water Management Index read Article 1, Article 2

2. Studies have pointed out that the pace of groundwater use in India far exceeds that of aquifer recharge.
3. If the situation doesn’t improve, India could face a 6% GDP loss by 2050.

Way forward

To address the crisis, solutions like rainwater harvesting, reviving and cleaning water bodies, and improving water supply infrastructure are crucial. These strategies must be implemented to prevent further depletion and ensure sustainable water management.

Question for practice:

Discuss the factors contributing to the severe water shortage in Bengaluru, Karnataka, and propose potential solutions to address the crisis.

New scheme for EVs – This may put global majors in fast lane

Source-This post on new scheme for EVs-This may put global majors in fast lane has been created based on the article “New scheme for EVs may put global majors in fast lane” published in “Business Standards” on 16 March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-3– Indian Economy and issues relating to Planning, Mobilization of Resources, Growth, Development and Employment.

Context– Companies like Tesla and its upstart rival Vinfast have demanded a reduction of import duties from the Centre for manufacturing of electric vehicles.

Why did the government not reduce import duties for Tesla?

1) There was opposition from domestic players like Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) and the Tatas. They claimed that reduction of import duties would be unfair because the government has set high localization thresholds for domestic companies.

2) Tesla did not set up its manufacturing plant in India. The government asked Tesla to first set up plant in India rather than merely import from China.

What is Tesla’s new plan for India?

1) The company is ready to invest $3 billion in the plant. Further, its partners have also planned to invest another $10 billion.

2) It intends to double component supplies from India to $1.7-1.9 billion.

Why is manufacturing in India Important for these global companies?

1) They can take advantage of India’s vibrant components’ industry in the country. This industry was already supplying Tesla for years

2) India has a huge domestic electric vehicle market. As per some estimate, it would account for 15 % of total car sales by 2030.

3) This would help the car giant to reduce its over dependence on China, for both sales and production.

What is the significance of Tesla and Vinfast investment for India?

1) Boost to supply chain– Entry of global iconic brand like Tesla and Vinfast  could make a big difference to India’s influence in the global manufacturing supply chain.

2) Rise of export– It will enhance country’s EV technology base and make India a hub for such exports.

There are enough safeguards for domestic companies. Market of electric top-end car manufactured by Tesla is very less in India. It does not impact the broader, larger and the growing EV market in India.

Question for practice

How can Tesla’s investment create a win-win proposition both for India and Tesla?

European Union adopts first AI Law

Source-This post on European Union adopts first AI Law has been created based on the article “With first of its kind EU law, a framework that allows imaginative AI regulation” published in “The Indian Express” on 16 March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus – GS Paper-3 – Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nanotechnology

News– The European Parliament has passed the first comprehensive regulatory regime for artificial intelligence, laying down “harmonized rules” called the Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act, 2024).

What are the provisions of the Artificial Intelligence Act?

1) Objective-To improve the internal market’s functioning by laying down a uniform legal framework for use of artificial intelligence systems in the Union.

2) Jurisdiction-It states that provisions will apply to AI providers for services in the European Union, irrespective of whether the providers are in the EU or in a third country.

3) Restricted Activities-It prohibits certain AI practices that can distort the behavior of a person or a group of persons by impairing their ability to make an informed decision.

4) Establishing Artificial Intelligence Board– There will be establishment of European Artificial Intelligence Board. The board will have representatives from member states and the Commission.
Further, within each nation state a national supervisory authority will be tasked with monitoring the application and implementation of the new law.

5) Imposition of fines-Fines will vary from 30 million euros or 6 per cent of the total worldwide annual turnover. Fines depend on the severity of the infringement.

6) Time period-The new law will not come into force immediately. It gives AI developers and providers time to familiarize themselves with the regulations. The law will come into force in phases varying from six to 36 months (about 3 years).

What is unique about the act?

It categorizes AI into its potential for harm based on the level of intelligence of the programme.
1) It explicitly bans “harmful AI practices” that are a “clear threat to people”. It also lists 4 harmful practices in the act.

2) It seeks to regulate “high risk AI systems” that create “adverse impact on people’s safety or their fundamental rights.” The law has two kinds of high-risk AI systems.

3) It regulates AI systems that present limited risk such as systems that interact with humans like chatbots, emotion recognition systems, and AI systems that manipulate image, audio or video (deepfakes). These systems would also be subject to a limited set of transparency obligations.

4) It will provide ways to imagine the regulatory regime for AI to other countries.

Question for practice

What are the provisions of the recently enacted European Union AI Act?

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Railways Multi-modal transport hubs

Source-This post on Railways Multi-modal transport hubs is based on the article “Railways plans to develop multi-modal transport hubs” published in “The Hindu” on 15th March 2024.

Why in the News?

The Indian Railways aims to establish mega railway terminals featuring multi-modal connectivity in aspirational cities with a population of more than 10 lakh nationwide.

The programme is part of the infrastructure being developed for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ initiative.

What are Railways multi-modal transport hubs?

1. About– These are infrastructure projects created by railway authorities to consolidate different modes of transportation, including trains, buses, taxis, and other public transit options, at a single site.

2. Critical junctures– These hubs act as pivotal points for passengers to transition between various modes of travel, improving connectivity and ensuring more seamless journeys.

3. Amenities– These hubs may offer additional amenities like parking, waiting areas, and shops to accommodate travelers’ needs.

4. The “PM Gati Shakti Master Plan” has been launched, aiming to boost multi-model connectivity and governance in India for the 21st century.

What is PM Gati Shakti?

1. Gati Shakti is a digital platform.

2. It will bring 16 Ministries including Railways and Roadways together for integrated planning and coordinated implementation of infrastructure connectivity projects.

Read more– PM Gati Shakti

UPSC Syllabus- Indian Economy (Infrastructure)

Nana Jagannath Shankarseth

Source-This post on Nana Jagannath Shankarseth is based on the article “Who was Nana Jagannath Shankarseth, the social reformer ‘architect of Mumbai‘” published in “The Indian Express” on 15th March 2024.

Why in the News?

The Maharashtra government recently requested the Ministry of Railways to rename Mumbai Central station after Nana Jagannath Shankarseth.

Who was Nana Jagannath Shankarseth?

About:
a. He was often called the “architect” of Mumbai (previously Bombay) and was recognized as a social reformer, educator, and philanthropist.
b. He provided invaluable contributions, both ideologically and financially, across numerous sectors, establishing a robust foundation for the city.

Birth– He was born (February 10, 1803) in a wealthy Brahmin family in Murbad,Thane district ,Maharashtra.

Inspired by– He was deeply influenced by the renowned merchant and philanthropist Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy.

Political journey– He was the first Indian to be appointed to the Legislative Council of Bombay.

What are Shankarseth’s main contributions?

Education:

1. Shankarseth was dedicated to expanding education in Bombay and donated his family’s land for educational purposes.

2. He established the Native School of Bombay, later known as the Bombay Native Institution and then the Board of Education. Eventually, it became the renowned Elphinstone College.

Museum, Temples:

1. Shankarseth was one of the wealthy donors who supported the development of the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum in Byculla, which was designed by a renowned architect from London.

2. The Bhawani Shankar Temple near Nana Chowk was built by Shankarseth in honor of his late mother, Bhawanibai Murkute.

Railways:

1. The first train journey in India took place on April 16, 1853, between Boribunder and Thane, covering a 34-km route managed by the Great Indian Peninsular Railway Company.

2. Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy and Nana Shankarseth were part of the committee overseeing the project.

UPSC Syllabus- Personalities in news

Private Placement

Source-This post on Private Placement is based on the article “Sebi decides to repeal certain circulars related to private placement of securities” published in “The Indian Express” on 13th March 2024.

Why in the News?

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has recently decided to repeal certain circulars that provided relaxation for the allotment of securities through the private placement route.

What is Private Placement?

1. About– It is the sale of stock shares or bonds to selected investors and institutions rather than being offered publicly on the open market.

2. Investors attracted– Private placement programs invite investors like wealthy individuals, banks, mutual funds, insurance companies, and pension funds.

3. Benefit:
a. A benefit of private placement is its minimal regulatory demands.
b. Through private placements, companies can maintain closer investor relationships, negotiate flexible terms, and possibly retain more control over their direction and growth strategies.

Note– Under the Companies Act, 1956, issuing securities to 49 people was seen as private placement. This limit was raised to 200 under the Companies Act, 2013.

4. Types of of private placements– Preferential allotment and qualified institutional placement.

Preferential allotment:

1. About– This method involves a company issuing new shares to a select group of existing shareholders or specific investors, usually at a price lower than the current market price.

2. Purpose– This method is often used when a company aims to reward or retain existing shareholders, like promoters, by offering them the chance to buy more shares.

3. Regulation– Preferential allotment in India is regulated by SEBI regulations and the Companies Act. The company needs permission from its shareholders to proceed with preferential allotment.

Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP):

1. About– QIP is a private placement option for listed companies only. With QIP, a listed company can issue shares or securities to qualified institutional buyers (QIBs), like mutual funds, banks, insurance companies, and foreign institutional investors, without going public.

2. Purpose– Companies use QIP to quickly and efficiently raise capital from institutional investors for various purposes such as expansion, debt reduction, or other corporate needs.

3. Regulation– SEBI has set guidelines for QIP issuances in India.

UPSC Syllabus- Indian Economy

Nausena Bhawan: Indian Navy first independent headquarters

Source-This post on Nausena Bhawan: Indian Navy first independent headquarters is based on the article “Rajnath inaugurates new Navy headquarters” published in “The Hindu” on 15th March 2024.

Why in the News?

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently inaugurated the new Nausena Bhawan in Delhi Cantonment.

What is its Significance?

First Independent headquarter– The inauguration of Nausena Bhawan is a major milestone for the Indian Navy, marking its first independent headquarters in Delhi. Before, the Navy functioned from 13 diverse sites which poses coordination challenges.

About Nausena Bhawan Building Design

1. Selection of design-The architectural design of Nausena Bhawan was chosen via a nationwide competition, prioritizing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

2. Building Construction– It has three wings across four stories and uses innovative construction methods for efficiency and sustainability.

3. Environment friendly– The complex is dedicated to saving energy and water by using solar power systems and advanced building materials.

Facilities

1. Advanced Technology Usage:
a. Nausena Bhawan offers a pleasant indoor environment, featuring a central heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system utilizing advanced oxidation plasma technology.
b. It also has an advanced integrated building management system for efficient coordination and monitoring of security and utilities.

2. Green rating and Security-The building has earned a Green Rating IV under the integrated habitability assessment. It boasts a three-tier security system comprising:

a. Automatic underbelly scanning for vehicles
b. Power fence
c. Face recognition cameras, bollards, vehicle stoppers, access control, and security cameras.

UPSC Syllabus- Miscellaneous

World Monuments Fund Watch 2025

Source-This post on World Monuments Fund Watch 2025 is based on the article “Conservationists to propose Kazhuveli watershed region in T.N. for nomination to World Monuments Fund Watch 2025” published in “The Hindu” on 13th March 2024.

Why in the News?

Conservationists plan to propose the Kazhuveli watershed region in Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu, for nomination to the World Monuments Fund Watch 2025 programme.

About World Monuments Fund Watch 2025 programme

1. About: World Monuments Fund is a private, international, non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of historic architecture and cultural heritage sites around the world through fieldwork, advocacy, grantmaking, education, and training

It is a nomination-based programme that connects local heritage preservation to global awareness and action.

2. Origin: It was launched in 1996. It is a biennial program.

3. Significance: It provides a critical platform to raise awareness of and support for heritage places of global significance that are facing pressures relating to the most important global issues of our time. The issue ranges from climate change and under representation to recovery from crisis and beyond.

UPSC Syllabus: Miscellaneous

Darien Gap

Source-This post on Darien Gap is based on the article “What is the Darien Gap? And why are more migrants risking this Latin American route to get to the US?” published in “Down to Earth” on 14th March 2024.

Why in the News?

Illegal immigration to the US has in recent weeks moved its focus south to the Darien Gap.

About Darien Gap

1. The Darien Gap is a stretch of densely forested jungle across northern Colombia and southern Panama.

2. It is roughly 60 miles (97 kilometres) across. The terrain is muddy, wet and unstable.

3. It has become a major route for global human migration despite of no paved roads exist in the Darien Gap.

4. The Darién Gap is home to the Embera- Wounaan and Guna indigenous peoples. It was also inhabited by the Cueva people, who became extinct after the Spanish invasion of Panama in 1535.

5. Maize, cassava, plantains, and bananas are staple crops grown by local farmers in the region.

6. Why is it so dangerous?

a) The route people take when they migrate from South America to North America is controlled by criminal organisations.

b) The route is also prone to extortion, kidnapping and mass sexual assault.

c) The extreme nature of the swamp like jungle also makes the movement in this region dangerous.

d) Vector-borne, water-borne and fungal-related illnesses are also quite common in this region.

UPSC Syllabus: Places in news

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary

Source-This post on Pobitora Wildlife Sanctury is based on the article “Assam Cabinet decides to de-notify prime rhino habitat” published in “The Hindu” on 13th March 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently, a petition has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking relief from demarcating Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary and removing encroachments.

About Pobitora wildlife Sanctury

Aspect	Details
Location	1. It is located on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River in Morigaon district, Assam. 2. It covers 38.85 km2 area providing grassland and wetland habitat for the Indian rhinoceros. 3. The Sanctuary consists of the Rajamayong Reserve Forest and Pobitora Reserve Forest.
Status	It attained the status of a wildlife Sanctury in 1987.
Special Feature	1. It is known for holding the highest density of Greater One Horned Rhinoceros in the country. 2. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary also known as “Mini Kaziranga” due to its comparable landscape and notable population of the one-horned rhinoceros.
Vegetation	It has grassland vegetation consists of at least 15 grass species.
Flora	Pabitora Wildlife sanctury comprised of wet savannah, featuring a variety of vegetation such as Arundo donax, Erianthus ravennae, Phragmites karka, Imperata cylindrica, and Saccharum spp.
Fauna	1. The wildlife sanctuary is home to endangered one-horned rhinoceros and the other mammals such as Leopard, Leopard cat, Fishing cat, Jungle cat, Feral Buffalo, Wild pigs, Chinese pangolins, etc.

About One Horned Rhinoceros

1. The Greater One-Horned Rhino is the largest among the rhino species, characterized by a single black horn and a grey-brown hide with skin folds.

2. They primarily graze, consuming grasses, leaves, branches of shrubs and trees, fruits, and aquatic plants.

3. Assam hosts an estimated 2,640 rhinos across four protected areas: Pabitora Wildlife Reserve, Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park, Kaziranga National Park, and Manas National Park. Approximately 2,400 of them reside in the Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNPTR).

4. Conservation Status: Its conservation status is as follow:

• IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.
• CITES: Appendix I (prohibiting international trade in specimens except for scientific research).
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I.

Read more: State of the Rhino Report 2023

UPSC Syllabus: Environment