9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 20^th August, 2024

Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 1

Secular Civil Code (SCC) in India

Source: The post Secular Civil Code (SCC) in India has been created, based on the article “Secular Civil Code will unify, not divide Indians” published in “Indian Express” on 20th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 1 – Indian Society – Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.

Context: The article discusses Prime Minister Modi’s call for a Secular Civil Code (SCC) in India. It argues that the SCC would ensure equal legal rights for all citizens, regardless of religion, addressing legal inconsistencies and reducing judicial backlog.

For detailed information on Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Debate read this article here

What are the Current Problems with Personal Laws?

1. Inconsistency Across Communities: Personal laws vary widely between religious communities, leading to legal inconsistencies. This creates confusion and unequal treatment under the law.
2. Discrimination Against Women: Many personal laws are discriminatory, especially against women. For example, personal laws allow different rights for men and women, depending on their religion.
3. Legal Exploitation: People can exploit these differences, as in the Sarla Mudgal case where a man converted to Islam to marry again, taking advantage of polygamy in Muslim law.

What is the Secular Civil Code (SCC)?

1. The Secular Civil Code (SCC) proposes a single set of civil laws for all citizens in India, regardless of religion.
2. It covers civil matters like marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption, ensuring equal legal rights for everyone.
3. The SCC aims to eliminate outdated and discriminatory personal laws, particularly those affecting women.

Why is the SCC Important?

1. Equality Under Law: The SCC would ensure all citizens, regardless of religion, are treated equally under a single legal framework. This aligns with Babasaheb Ambedkar’s vision of progress, especially for women.
2. Preventing Legal Exploitation: Current personal laws allow exploitation, as seen in the Sarla Mudgal case, where a Hindu man converted to Islam to marry again, circumventing Hindu personal laws.
3. Reducing Judicial Backlog: With nearly 4.70 crore cases pending in Indian courts as of March 2022, the judiciary is under significant strain. Implementing the SCC would simplify and standardize the legal framework, making it more accessible and understandable, thereby reducing this burden.
4. Constitutional Duty: Article 44 of the Indian Constitution mandates the state to work towards a Uniform Civil Code, making the SCC a step towards fulfilling this constitutional directive.

How Have Other Democracies Implemented Similar Codes?

1. Countries like the United States, France, and Germany have one set of civil laws for all citizens, regardless of religion.
2. This approach has allowed them to maintain cultural diversity while ensuring equality before the law.

Question for practice:

Examine the potential benefits of implementing a Secular Civil Code (SCC) in India.

GS PAPER - 2

Issues associated with India Bangladesh BIT

Source: This post Issues associated with India Bangladesh BIT is based on the article “Protecting Indian capital in Bangladesh”, published in The Hindu on 20^th August 2024.

UPSC Syllabus: GS paper 2 – International Relations – India and its neighborhood

Context: The article discusses the potential risks and challenges faced by Indian companies operating in Bangladesh following the resignation and fleeing of Sheikh Hasina. It also highlights the legal frameworks available to protect these investments, with a focus on the India-Bangladesh Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT).

Presently, Indian companies that have heavily invested in various sectors like edible oil, power, infrastructure, and pharmaceuticals face the risk of adverse regulatory changes that could harm their investments.

What are the legal Protections that are available for Indian Investors?

Indian companies operating in Bangladesh can rely on three broad legal frameworks to protect their investments:

1) Domestic laws of Bangladesh,

2) Contracts between the investor and the government or local companies, and

3) International law, particularly the India-Bangladesh BIT.

What is the level of protection provided by the Domestic and international Laws?

Domestic laws: While domestic laws, even of Bangladesh also, provide some level of protection, these laws can be unilaterally changed by the state.

International Law: International law, especially the BIT, plays a crucial role in protecting foreign investments by imposing conditions on the host state’s regulatory behavior. The BIT prevents unlawful expropriation and ensures fair and equitable treatment (FET) of investments. It also allows foreign investors to sue the host state in international tribunals if their rights are violated, known as investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS).

How India-Bangladesh Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) can be useful?

The India-Bangladesh BIT, signed in 2009, contains broad investment protection features, including an unqualified FET provision that can help Indian companies challenge adverse regulatory actions by Bangladesh.

However, in 2017, on India’s insistence, India and Bangladesh adopted Joint Interpretative Notes (JIN) to clarify various terms in the BIT. It diluted some of the investment protection features. For instance,

1) Taxation measures were excluded from the BIT’s ambit,

2) FET provision was linked to customary international law, which requires a higher threshold to prove a treaty violation.

While this JIN was designed to safeguard the regulatory powers of capital-importing countries like Bangladesh, it may prove disadvantageous for Indian investors in Bangladesh.

Conclusion

India’s outbound foreign direct investment (FDI) has grown significantly, with the country ranking among the top 20 capital-exporting nations. Therefore, it is essential for India to evolve its investment treaty practices to protect its interests as both a capital exporter and a host country.

Challenges and Solutions of the Indian Education System

Source: The post challenges and solutions of the Indian education system has been created, based on the article “Reading and numeracy in India: It takes a village and much more” published in “Live Mint” on 20th August 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 – Governance – Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education

Context: The article discusses the issue of education in India, including its performance in the PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) tests, where India lagged significantly behind other countries. This serves as an example of the broader problems in the Indian education system, such as low foundational literacy and numeracy, which the article addresses by suggesting ways to enhance community involvement and support for teachers and students.

For detailed information on Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA)read this article here

For detailed information on Issues with India’s education system read this article here

How Far Behind is India in Education Compared to China?

1. India was 12 years behind China in math, science, and reading in the 2009 PISA test.
2. Between 2010 and 2023, China’s higher education enrolment rose from 26.5% to 60.2%, while India’s remained between 25-28% since 2017.
3. Low foundational literacy in India contributes to 44% lower labor productivity compared to China.

What are the Main Challenges in India’s Education System?

1. Teacher and Student Disengagement: 8 out of 10 students don’t reach grade 8, and 25% of teachers often don’t show up to class, indicating deep-seated disillusionment.
2. Ineffective Community Involvement: Despite 88% of schools having School Management Committees, parents and teachers are largely unaware of their roles, leading to poor community engagement.
3. Limited Teaching Time: Teachers spend only 37% of their time teaching, and lack of proper training further reduces their effectiveness, as seen in the low impact of ad-hoc training sessions.

What Should be Done?

1. Utilize Technology to Enhance Teacher Efficiency: Technology can significantly reduce the administrative burden on teachers and improve their effectiveness. The Chimple app, used in Satya Bharti Schools, allowed teachers to assign tasks based on a child’s ability, leading to better learning outcomes. 94% of teachers found this model helpful. Implementing similar technological solutions can free up more time for teachers to focus on teaching, allowing them to better support students.
2. Recognize and Motivate Teachers: Programs like Madhya Pradesh’s Classroom Heroes, which celebrate top performers, should be expanded to boost teacher motivation.
3. Enhance Parental Involvement: Schools with strong parental engagement are 10 times more likely to improve learning outcomes. Providing parents with clear, contextual information on their child’s progress can help bridge gaps.
4. Strengthen Community Involvement: Learn from Vietnam, where strong community expectations improved student discipline and PISA scores, even with low educational spending.

Question for practice:

Discuss the role of community and parental involvement in addressing the challenges of India’s education system.

GS PAPER - 3

A change in India’s power export rules

Source: This post is based on the article “A change in India’s power export rules”, published in “The Hindu” on 20^th August 2024.

UPSC Syllabus: GS paper 3 – Indian Economy – Infrastructure and Energy

Context: India’s power export rules have been amended. It will resolve the challenges faced by Indian power exporters supplying electricity to neighbouring countries.

This amendment allows Indian power exporters to reroute their output to Indian grids if there is a delay in payments from partner countries.

What is Godda project?

The Godda project is India’s first transnational power project that supplies all the power generated to another nation, specifically Bangladesh.

This Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) was signed with the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) in November 2017 for a duration of 25 years.

The power generated is from an ultra-supercritical thermal power plant located in Godda, Jharkhand, with a capacity of 1,496 MW.

The project aims to provide a stable power supply to Bangladesh, replacing more expensive liquid fuel-based power, thereby reducing the overall cost of power in Bangladesh.

What are the issues highlighted associated with the project?

The project has faced criticism due to the high cost of coal imported from Australia to India for the power generation. It is making the power more expensive in Bangladesh.

Additionally, the high capacity and maintenance charges regardless of actual electricity generation have been criticized as being too high by industry standards.

Underutilization of Domestic Capacity: Despite progress in expanding electricity access, Bangladesh faces fuel and gas supply constraints that lead to underutilization of its power plants.

What is the significance of amendment?

1) The new regulatory change grants Indian power exporters more flexibility by allowing them to reroute power to domestic grids if payment issues arise with partner countries.

2) Furthermore, they have been granted access to the domestic market.

3) This reduces dependency on external markets and mitigates risks associated with economic and political instability in neighboring countries.

Validity of India’s nuclear doctrine in the changing landscape of nuclear threats

Source: The post validity of India’s nuclear doctrine in the changing landscape of nuclear threats has been created, based on the article “25 years after it was drafted, why India’s nuclear doctrine still remains relevant” published in “Indian Express” on 20th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3-security

Context: The article discusses India’s nuclear doctrine, established 25 years ago, which emphasizes minimal deterrence and no-first-use of nuclear weapons. Despite evolving nuclear threats from Pakistan and China, the article argues that India’s doctrine remains valid and stable in today’s nuclear landscape.

For detailed information on India’s nuclear doctrine after 25 years read this article here

How has the global nuclear threat changed?

1. Pakistan’s Full Spectrum Deterrence: Pakistan now frequently highlights its “full spectrum deterrence” strategy, which includes the possibility of first-use nuclear strikes.
2. China’s Nuclear Expansion: China is undergoing a significant expansion of its nuclear arsenal, increasing its capabilities.
3. Technological Advances: Adversaries are improving technologies like highly accurate conventional delivery systems, cyber-attacks on nuclear command structures, AI to counter retaliatory capabilities, and advanced intelligence surveillance.
4. Increased Collaboration Threat: There is concern about potential collaboration between Pakistan and China against India, intensifying the nuclear threat.

What is the validity of India’s nuclear doctrine in the changing landscape of nuclear threats?

1. Stable Deterrence: India’s nuclear doctrine, established 25 years ago, focuses on credible minimum deterrence and a no-first-use policy. Despite changes in the global nuclear landscape, these principles continue to provide stability.
2. Adaptability to Threats: While Pakistan’s first-use policy and China’s nuclear expansion are significant, India’s doctrine allows for a flexible and responsive nuclear force. This adaptability ensures continued deterrence without an arms race.
3. Technological Considerations: Advances like cyber threats and AI necessitate improved survivability of India’s nuclear forces. However, these changes do not require altering the doctrine itself.
4. Global Contrast: India’s restrained approach stands out against the aggressive nuclear policies of others, reinforcing its doctrine’s relevance as a beacon of nuclear stability in today’s world.

What should be India’s actions in the changing landscape of nuclear threats?

1. Enhance Survivability: Focus on strengthening the survivability of nuclear forces against advanced threats like cyber-attacks, AI, and improved ISR by adversaries.
2. Measured Arsenal Growth: Continue the steady, measured growth of India’s nuclear arsenal, aligning with the doctrine’s call for an “effective, enduring, diverse, flexible and responsive” force.
3. Maintain No-First-Use Policy: Retain the no-first-use policy, as it avoids the costly and complex demands of a first-use strategy.
4. Avoid Tactical nuclear weapons: Refrain from deploying tactical nuclear weapons, as their use could lead to unpredictable and destabilizing consequences.

Question for practice:

Discuss how India’s nuclear doctrine remains relevant and stable despite the evolving global nuclear threats.

Growth in India’s space technology and the role of private players and start-ups

Source: The post growth in India’s space technology and the role of private players and start-ups has been created, based on the article “Express view on SSLV launch: India’s space” published in “Indian Express” on 20th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- science and technology- Awareness in the fields of Space

Context: The article discusses India’s recent launch of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), which can carry small payloads and is expected to boost the country’s space sector. It highlights the potential growth in space technology and the role of private players and start-ups.

For detailed information on ISRO has successfully launched the Earth Observation Satellite through the SSLV read this article here

What Is the Market Scenario for Space Tech?

1. The space tech market is expected to grow significantly in the next five years.
2. The US and EU are currently leading, while China, Australia, and Russia are expanding. China aims to launch over 13,000 satellites by 2030 for 6G communications.
3. India’s current share in the global space economy is about 2%.
4. With the SSLV and related developments, the Indian government plans to increase this share four-fold by 2033.

How does the SSLV benefit space technology?

1. The SSLV is designed for quick assembly, requiring less than a week with a smaller team.
2. This efficiency makes it ideal for launching small satellites used in weather forecasting, communications, defense, urban planning, and disaster management.
3. It also supports the growing Internet of Things by enabling more frequent launches.

What Role Does ISRO Play in India’s Space Policy?

1. ISRO plays a critical role in enabling India’s space expansion by supporting private space companies like Skyroot and Agnikul, which collaborate closely with it.
2. ISRO launched the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), designed to carry payloads up to 500 kg, crucial for expanding the small satellite market.
3. The agency’s work is vital for India’s social objectives, including education, healthcare, agriculture, and security.
4. India’s space policy, introduced last April, emphasizes transitioning from an ISRO-dominated ecosystem while ensuring ISRO’s crucial role remains intact.

How are private companies contributing to space technology?

1. Indian startups like Skyroot and Agnikul are collaborating with ISRO, advancing the space sector.
2. Agnikul has even constructed its launch pad at Sriharikota and plans to launch a rocket weekly, focusing on payloads smaller than those of the SSLV.
3. India aims to increase its space economy stake fourfold by 2033, driven by private sector contributions, helping the country expand beyond its current 2% global share.

Question for practice:

Evaluate how the introduction of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) is expected to impact India’s share in the global space economy by 2033.

Evolution of India’s economic policies and their impact

Source: The post evolution of India’s economic policies and their impact has been created, based on the article “Revamping corporate governance” published in “Business standard” on 20th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilisation of resources, growth, development

Context: The article discusses the evolution of India’s economic policies, emphasizing shifts from planned development in 1951 to liberalization in 1991. It highlights the need for government neutrality in corporate relations and stronger competition policies to achieve developed nation status by 2047.

For detailed information on India’s Economic Growth and challenges read this article here

What Were the Major Economic Transformations in Independent India?

1. 1951 Planned Development: India launched its First Five-Year Plan in 1951, marking the start of planned economic development. This period focused on public sector growth, especially in heavy industries, with private investment also increasing.
2. 1991 Economic Liberalization: In July 1991, India liberalized its economy, reducing government control over investment and foreign trade, leading to a significant increase in private sector participation.

How Did the India’s Economic Policies Impacted Its Growth?

1. The 1951 shift led to public-sector-focused growth, particularly in heavy industries, with private investment also increasing.
2. The average annual growth rate rose from 0.5% before independence to much higher levels post-1951, marking a substantial improvement.
3. In 1951, India’s share in global merchandise exports was 1.9%, but it fell to 0.4% by 1980 during the first transformation phase. Despite this decline, India’s share in world manufacturing exports doubled during the high-growth phase from 2003 onwards, reaching 1.8%, still slightly below the 1951 level.
4. The 1991 liberalization reduced government control, opened banking to private players, and led to a massive increase in capital issues, from 2600 crore in 1981-82 to 21.5 trillion in 2021-22.
5. India’s share in global commercial service exports increased from 0.6% in 1990 to 4.3% in 2023, showing the positive impact of these policies on global trade participation.

What Is the Role of the Public Sector in India’s Growth?

1. Public sector corporations in India have historically been pioneers in technology development, contributing significantly to the country’s growth.
2. These corporations have produced a large pool of technologically skilled professionals, many of whom have been recruited by the private sector.
3. While the government currently views public sector corporations as liabilities and aims to privatize them, this approach overlooks their potential.
4. Public sector entities are crucial in managing monopoly infrastructure, preventing private corporations from exploiting market power.

What Changes Are Needed for India to Become a Developed State by 2047?

1. Market-Friendly Government: Shift from promoting selected corporations to a neutral, market-friendly approach. Avoid cronyism and allow the market to guide growth.
2. Strengthen Competition Policy: Enhance the role of the Competition Commission to drive management dynamism. Reduce barriers on takeovers to encourage professional management over family-run businesses.
3. Reevaluate Public Sector Corporations: Recognize public sector corporations as assets. Support them in managing monopoly infrastructure to prevent private sector exploitation.
4. Focus on Technology and Exports: Encourage corporations to focus on product and process technologies.

Question for practice:

Examine the major economic transformations in India since independence and how these have impacted the country’s growth trajectory.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Nipun Munition and Directorate General of Quality Assurance

Source- This post on Nipun Munition has been created based on the article “DRDO hands over Authority Holding Sealed Particulars of ‘Nipun’ munition to Directorate General of Quality Assurance” published in “PIB” on 20 August 2024.

Why in News?

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has transferred the Authority Holding Sealed Particulars (AHSP) of the ‘Nipun’ munition to the Directorate General of Quality Assurance (DGQA) at the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pashan, Pune.

About Nipun Munition

1. Nipun is a soft target munition developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

2. The munition was designed by the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) in collaboration with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) in Pune.

3. Nipun is known for being highly user-friendly and deadly effective against enemy targets.

About Directorate General of Quality Assurance (DGQA)

1) The Directorate General of Quality Assurance (DGQA) is under Deptt. Of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence.

2) It ensures the quality of a wide range of weapons, ammunition, equipment, and supplies for the Armed Forces.

3) DGQA focuses on replacing imports with domestic products and collaborates with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on various projects.

4) It also works on organizing and standardizing documentation and materials to reduce diversity in components and equipment.

5) It supports small industries, offering post-purchase services, investigating defects.

6) It also provides technical advice to the military, the Ministry, and manufacturing entities.

UPSC Syllabus: Defense

Purandar Fig

Source- This post on Purandar Fig has been created based on the article “India’s GI-tagged agro-product Figs juice exported first time to Poland” published in “Indian Express” on 20 August 2024.

Why in News?

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the export of India’s first ready-to-drink fig juice, made from GI-tagged Purandar figs to Poland. This move aims to bring India’s unique agro-products to the global stage.

About Purandar Figs

Aspects	Description
About	1) Purandar figs are grown in the fertile lands of Purandar taluka in Pune district, Maharashtra.
Favorable condition	1) The dry weather, hilly terrain, and well-drained soil in the region make it perfect for fig farming. 2) The unique qualities of Purandar figs come from the area’s specific climate, red-black soil, and salt-free well irrigation.
Features	1. Purandar figs are famous for their unique taste, smooth texture, and high pulp content. 2. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, with a deliciously sweet flavor and an appealing violet color. 3. These figs have a sweet, lingering taste, low acidity, and high Total Soluble Sugar (TSS), making them a favorite among fruit lovers. 4. Their bell shape and larger size make them stand out both in appearance and flavor. 5. A key feature of Purandar figs is that over 80% of the fruit is edible, consisting of juicy, sweet pulp.
Recognition	1) The GI tag for Purandar figs emphasizes their uniqueness, connecting their quality and reputation to their geographic origin. 2) Fig juice made from these GI-tagged figs has already gained international recognition, winning an award at the Macfrut 2024 event highlighting its potential in global markets.

UPSC Syllabus: Indian Economy

India Australia RISE Accelerator

Source- This post on India Australia RISE Accelerator has been created based on the article “India Australia RISE Accelerator calls for Start-ups and MSMEs in Climate Smart Agritech” published in “PIB” on 20 August 2024.

Why in News?

The Atal Innovation Mission is inviting applications from start-ups and MSMEs from India and Australia for the Climate Smart Agritech cohort of the India Australia Rapid Innovation and Start-up Expansion (RISE) Accelerator.

About India Australia RISE Accelerator

1. The India Australia Rapid Innovation and Start-up Expansion (RISE) Accelerator is a bilateral program of Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog and CSIRO.

2. Objective: The program aims to support businesses by focusing on innovations that address critical agricultural challenges.

3. Duration: The accelerator will run for nine months, starting in October 2024.

4. Participation: There is no charge for start-ups or SMEs to participate in the program. Selected participants may be eligible for up to INR 45 lakhs in non-equity grants.

5. Participants will engage in a combination of self-paced online learning and in-person sessions.

6. Program Focus Areas: It involves boosting agricultural productivity, reducing emissions, optimizing Natural Resource Use.

Key Highlights:

1. Focus on Climate Smart Agritech: The RISE Accelerator is seeking start-ups and MSMEs with technologies and solutions designed to improve agricultural productivity and resilience amid increasing climate variability, resource scarcity, and food insecurity.

2. Farmer-Centric Solutions: Special emphasis is on innovations that prioritize the needs and practices of farmers.

3. Participation Benefits:

i) Cross-Border Opportunities: The program offers multiple opportunities for participants to travel between Australia and India.

ii) Financial Support: Selected start-ups and SMEs may receive significant non-equity grants.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology

Shaurya Sampravah 1.0

Source- This post on Shaurya Sampravah 1.0 has been created based on the article “SHAURYA SAMPRAVAH 1.0 : INDIAN ARMY STRENGTHENS COORDINATION WITH VETERANS IN STRATEGIC VISION FOR NATION-BUILDING”  published in “PIB” on 20 August 2024.

Why in News?

Recently, the Indian Army hosted Shaurya Sampravah 1.0 at the Manekshaw Centre in Delhi.

About Shaurya Sampravah 1.0

1. The Indian Army held a significant event called Shaurya Sampravah 1.0 at the Manekshaw Centre in Delhi on 19th August 2024.

2. This event was organized to strengthen coordination between the Indian Army and its veteran officers, focusing on a strategic vision for nation-building.

3. Purpose of the Event:

i)  The event was a platform for sharing ideas between the current Army leadership and veteran officers.

ii) The goal was to utilize the experience and wisdom of veterans to boost the Army’s transformation initiatives. This event also aims to support the Nation’s objectives, especially the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.

Key Features of the Event

1. Decade of Transformation Roadmap:  A detailed plan outlining the Army’s strategic vision for the next ten years. It focuses on modernization, technological innovation, and enhancing operational capabilities.

2. Modernization Initiatives: Discussions on the Indian Army’s ongoing efforts to absorb advanced technology and improve inventory and capabilities. It also emphasizes the Army’s commitment to staying at the forefront of military innovations.

3. Efficiency and Effectiveness: Presentations were done on refining the Army’s systems, processes, and functions to enhance overall efficiency and effectiveness.

4. Role in Nation Building:  Discussions on how the Indian Army is contributing to nation-building and its vision for the future took place at the event.

UPSC Syllabus: Defence

Banni Grasslands restoration

Source- This post on Banni Grasslands has been created based on the article “How the Banni grasslands of Kachchh, Gujarat can be restored” published in “The Hindu” on 20 August 2024.

Why in News?

Researchers have conducted a new study assessing the suitability of different areas within the Banni grasslands in Kachchh district, Gujarat, for sustainable restoration. Banni grasslands are among the largest grasslands in the country.

About Banni Grasslands

Specification	Details
Location	Kutch district of Gujarat
Size	1) Covering 2,618 km², it represents nearly 45% of Gujarat’s grazing land. 2) It is considered to be the largest Grassland in Asia.
Ecosystem	Wetlands and grasslands coexist in Banni.
Vegetation	Features sparse growth dominated by low forbs and graminoids, including salt-tolerant varieties, along with scattered trees and scrub.
Flora and Fauna	The area is rich in flora and fauna with 192 species of plants, 273 species of birds, several species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
Protection Efforts	1) In 1955, the court notified the grassland will be a reserve forest. 2) In 2019, the NGT ordered to demarcate the boundaries of the Banni grassland and restricted non-forest activities.

About Maldhari Tribe

1) The Maldharis is a pastoralist tribal group, living in the Gir National Park, in the Banni Grasslands Reserve area.

2) In 2021, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) recognized their right to conserve the community forests in the Banni Grasslands area under the Forest Rights Act, 2006.

Study and Restoration strategy of Banni Grassland

A recent study by researchers from KSKV Kachchh University in Gujarat assessed the Banni grasslands to determine how they can be restored. The study focused on ecological value as the main criterion for restoration.

Restoration Strategies

1. Highly Suitable and Suitable Zones:  These areas can be restored easily by providing adequate water through irrigation or rainwater harvesting.

2. Moderately Suitable Zones: Grassland expansion can be managed here with some effort.

3. Marginally Suitable and Not Suitable Zones: These areas require more intensive interventions such as terracing, adding fertilizers, and protecting from erosion and salt intrusion.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment

National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG)

Source- This post on National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has been created based on the article “Clean Ganga mission head flags ‘extremely slow’ pace of project expenditures” published in “The Hindu” on 20 August 2024.

Why in News?

The head of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has expressed concern over the slow spending on river-cleaning projects. The delay has been attributed to the high costs of sewage management, slow fund disbursement, and lengthy project timelines.

About National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG)

1. National Mission for Clean Ganga(NMCG) was registered as a society on 12th August 2011 under the Societies Registration Act 1860. It acted as the implementation arm of the National Ganga River Basin Authority(NGRBA) which was constituted under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act (EPA),1986. The aim of the mission is cleaning and conserving the Ganga River.

2. It is the key agency responsible for implementing the Namami Gange Programme, which was launched in 2014 to coordinate efforts for restoring the health of the Ganga.

Key Objectives of NMCG

1. Reducing Pollution: NMCG focuses on reducing pollution in the Ganga by setting up sewage treatment plants, managing solid waste, and controlling industrial discharge into the river.

2. Developing Riverfronts: The mission works on improving riverfronts and building crematoria to prevent the direct flow of pollutants into the Ganga.

3. Conserving Biodiversity: NMCG promotes tree planting along the riverbanks and works to protect the river’s biodiversity, including species like the Ganga Dolphin.

4. Raising Awareness: The mission engages communities and raises public awareness about the importance of keeping the Ganga clean, involving people in conservation efforts.

5. Monitoring Progress: NMCG uses modern technology to monitor water quality and track the progress of its projects, ensuring transparency and effectiveness.

Institutional Structure for Cleaning Ganga

The Environmental Protection Act envisages five tier structure at national, state, and district level to take measures for prevention, control, and abatement of environmental pollution in river Ganga and to ensure continuous adequate flow of water in river Ganga-

1. National Ganga Council under chairmanship of Hon’ble Prime Minister of India.

2. Empowered Task Force (ETF) on river Ganga under chairmanship of Hon’ble Union Minister of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation.

3. National Mission for Clean Ganga(NMCG).

4. State Ganga Committees

5. District Ganga Committees in every specified district abutting river Ganga and its tributaries in the states.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment

Offshore Areas Mineral Trust Rules, 2024

Source- This post on Offshore Areas Mineral Trust Rules 2024 has been created based on the article “Govt makes offshore mineral rules stricter but eases awarding process” published in “Business Standard” on 20 August 2024.

Why in News?

The government has introduced the Offshore Areas Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2024, to ensure a transparent and competitive process for auctioning offshore mineral resources.

About Offshore Areas Mineral Trust Rules, 2024

These rules provide a clear framework for exploring and sustainably developing these resources. Key aspects include:

1. Key Definitions- The rules define important terms like “Act,” “Chairperson of the Executive Committee,” “Chairperson of the Governing Body,” “Fund,” “Governing Body,” and “Trust.”

2. Membership of the Governing Body and Executive Committee- The Central Government to determine the composition of both the Governing Body (which includes ex-officio members and special invitees) and the Executive Committee (which includes ex-officio members with voting rights).

3. Functions of Governing Body and Executive Committee- The Governing Body will set policy guidelines and oversees the off Shore Mineral Area Trust’s operations. The Executive Committee will manage and supervise the Trust, following the Governing Body’s directions.

4. Identification of Offshore Areas- Offshore geological potential areas to be identified by the Geological Survey of India.

5. Offshore Areas Mineral Trust Fund- The “Offshore Areas Mineral Trust Fund,” to be managed by the Executive Committee.

UPSC Syllabus: Indian Economy