9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 24th June, 2024

Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 1

Issue of Postponement of the Census

Source-This post on Issues with Postponement of the Census has been created based on the article “India among a select few countries that have not conducted the Census” published in “The Hindu” on 24 June 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-1- Population and Associated Issues, Poverty and Developmental issues, Urbanization, their problems and their remedies.

Context– The last census conducted in India was in 2011, and since 2021, the decennial counting measure has been indefinitely postponed. India is among a minority of countries, specifically 44 out of 233 nations, that have not conducted their latest census. The government has cited the COVID-19 pandemic as the reason for postponing Census 2021.

However,143 countries managed to conduct their census rounds after March 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic. India is the only BRICS nation that has not conducted its census during or after the pandemic. Brazil, China, South Africa, and Russia have successfully conducted their census rounds despite the challenges of COVID-19. Where, only conflict-affected nations such as Ukraine, Yemen, Syria, Myanmar, and economically distressed countries like Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, along with several sub-Saharan African nations, have not conducted the Census.

What is the significance of Census data?

1) It plays an important role in identifying beneficiaries for various welfare schemes that range from specific initiatives like building schools for tribal children to large-scale programs like the Public Distribution System (PDS).

2) According to a 2011 publication from the Office of Registrar General and Census Commissioner, census provides primary data at the village, town, and ward levels which is important for implementing various welfare schemes effectively.

A detailed article on Population Census: Significance and Challenges can be read here.

What are the important surveys that need census data to determine their samples?

Source-The Hindu

What are the issues with postponement of Census in India?

1) Many welfare schemes rely on census data to determine beneficiaries and allocate resources. For ex-schemes like the National Family Security Act, which provides subsidized food grains, are still using data from the 2011 census. This outdated data may lead to exclusion of eligible beneficiaries and misallocation of resources.

2) The delay impacts programs like Eklavya Model Residential School, designed for quality education of Scheduled Tribe (ST) children. Using 2011 census data for planning may lead to schools being set up where they are no longer needed or missing out on areas where they are now required due to changes in demographics since 2011.

Question for practice

What is the importance of Census data? What are the concerns related to the delay of Census in India?

GS PAPER - 2

The new pact between Russia and North Korea

Source: The post the new pact between Russia and North Korea has been created, based on the article “Why the Russia-North Korea pact is a big deal” published in “Indian express” on 20th June 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-international relations- Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements.

Context: The article discusses a new military pact between Russia and North Korea. This agreement promises immediate military support if either country is attacked. The pact strengthens their alliance, raises security concerns in South Korea and Japan, and impacts global geopolitical dynamics.

What is the historical context of Russia-North Korea relations?

After World War II, the Soviet Union supported the establishment of a communist regime in North Korea.

The USSR provided military aid to North Korea during the Korean War.

In 1961, the USSR and North Korea signed the Russo-North Korea Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation, and Mutual Assistance.

Relations declined after the Soviet Union dissolved in 1991.

Russia and North Korea’s relations improved in the early 2000s under Putin.

In 2022, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine further strengthened their alliance.

What is the new pact between Russia and North Korea?

1. Immediate Military Assistance: Russia and North Korea agreed to provide immediate military support if either is attacked.
2. Historical Context: The pact echoes the 1961 Russo-North Korea Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation, and Mutual Assistance.
3. Article 4: According to Article 4, if either nation is attacked, the other will provide military and other assistance without delay, in line with Article 51 of the UN Charter and the laws of both nations.

4.Technological Cooperation: The pact includes unspecified technological assistance, likely crucial for North Korea’s missile and nuclear programs.

What are the impacts of the new pact between Russia and North Korea?

1. Technological Support: It involves technological assistance, potentially helping North Korea improve missile guidance and nuclear capabilities.
2. Regional Security Concerns: South Korea and Japan perceive this as a direct threat, prompting them to reconsider their defense strategies and potentially strengthen military capabilities.
3. Global Diplomatic Reactions: NATO and the U.S. have expressed concerns. This pact could lead to further military alliances between authoritarian states, increasing global tensions and nuclear proliferation risks.
4. China’s Dilemma: While the pact strengthens the anti-Western bloc, it might reduce China’s influence over North Korea, complicating regional politics.

Question for practice:

Discuss the provisions and impacts of the new military pact between Russia and North Korea.

The key area of focus in the India-Bangladesh relationship

Source: The post the key area of focus in the India-Bangladesh relationship has been created, based on the article “India-Bangladesh ties: A shared vision” published in “Indian express” on 24th June 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-international relations-India and its neighbourhood- relations.

Context: The article discusses the strong relationship between India and Bangladesh, led by Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Sheikh Hasina. They have met frequently to enhance their countries’ partnership, focusing on improving trade, defense, and regional cooperation. They aim to address remaining challenges and strengthen their bond further.

For detailed information on India-Bangladesh relationship read this article here

What have India and Bangladesh achieved in bilateral relations?

Prime Ministers Narendra Modi of India and Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh have strengthened their countries’ relationship significantly. They have met 10 times over the past year, emphasizing the importance of their partnership. Their efforts are described as a “golden chapter” in the history of bilateral relations between the two nations.

What are the key areas of focus?

1. Easing Visa Procedures and Freer Movement of Goods: The countries plan to simplify visa processes to support easier and more frequent travel. They also aim to enhance the free movement of goods across borders.
2. Cross-border Energy and Electricity Flows: There is a focus on facilitating energy exchange, which includes the flow of electricity across the border to ensure mutual energy security and integration.
3. Building Digital Bridges: The efforts to create digital connections that will likely support advancements in technology and communication between the two nations.
4. Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA): India and Bangladesh intend to commence negotiations on a CEPA to encourage free trade. This is particularly important given the breakdown of the global trading order, positioning the partnership as a regional economic imperative.
5. Defense Modernization: Plans to modernize bilateral defense ties involve collaboration between armed forces and supporting Dhaka’s military modernization, contributing to regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.

What challenges remain?

1. River Water Management: Despite significant progress in bilateral relations, the management of river water remains a challenge. This issue is critical as it affects agriculture and livelihoods in both countries.
2. Unfinished Connectivity Agenda: The ongoing efforts to ease visa procedures and enable freer movement of goods and energy are crucial for seamless cross-border interaction but have yet to be fully realized.
3. Negotiations on Economic Partnership: The long overdue negotiations for a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) have yet to commence, which is essential for enhancing trade and economic integration between India and Bangladesh.

Question for practice:

Discuss the recent advancements and remaining challenges in the bilateral relationship between India and Bangladesh.

Issues with India’s education system

Source-This post on Issues with India’s education system has been created based on the article “The real scam behind NEET we need to talk about” published in “The Indian Express” on 24 June 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-2- Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.

Context- The article emphasizes that while the focus is on alleged corruption in recent NEET exams, the real issue is elsewhere. It argues that India’s systems fail to meet the aspirations of its youth, as shown by 24 lakh students competing for only about 55,000 government seats. This highlights a significant lack of opportunities.

What are the issues with Indias education system?

1) Employment and Economic Challenges: -There’s a significant mismatch between the aspirations of India’s youth and the available opportunities. Many young people struggle to secure basic formal employment despite working hard.

2) Inequality Magnified by Narrow Definitions of Success-India’s societal emphasis on “merit” and success defined by wealth and power deepens inequalities. Celebration of a select few as national symbols of achievement ignores the systemic issues that restrict opportunities for most young people.

3) Barriers to Upward Mobility – Many talented individuals do not get the opportunity for upward mobility. This contributes to issues like high levels of unemployment and incidents of despair, such as suicides among students in places like Kota.

4) Lack of Unified National Strategy- The current approaches lack a cohesive, comprehensive national strategy. There is too much focus on isolated instances of success, which are insufficient compared to the widespread need. There is no clear strategy to make these opportunities accessible to all.

What should be the way forward?

1) Politicians must unite across party lines to acknowledge the problem’s magnitude and develop a systematic approach. This will necessitate substantial public funding to enhance education infrastructure and create more opportunities.

2) There is a need to give up dismissive attitudes towards the working class and promote social unity.

Read more- Issues and trends in India’s higher education system

3) India’s wealthy individuals must move beyond self-satisfaction with their own accomplishments and actively work to increase opportunities for underprivileged youth.

Question for practice

What are the challenges in India’s education system? What steps should be taken to progress in this regard?

The issue of ceiling on job reservation

Source-This post on the issue of ceiling on job reservation has been created based on the article “Creamy layer should be kept out, but the ceiling on quota is artificial” published in “The Hindu” on 24 June 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-2- Indian Constitution—Historical Underpinnings, Evolution, Features, Amendments, Significant Provisions and Basic Structure.

Context- The Patna High Court invalidated Bihar’s decision to increase reservation quotas for various communities. The judgment was based on the strict application of the 50% ceiling on total reservations, as established by previous judicial precedents.
The court cited the Indra Sawhney (1992) case, which clarified that adequate representation does not mean proportionate representation.

The Bihar government amended its quota law to increase reservations. The decision was supported by a Caste Survey and was intended to achieve “proportionate equality.”

Why did the High Court reject the state government’s argument?

Read more- Reservation Judgements: An overemphasis on merit

What are the issues with the Patna High Court’s decision?

1) The court rejected the state’s argument about special circumstances justifying the quota increase. However, the court’s interpretation of “extraordinary situations” was too narrow, focusing only on geographical remoteness.

2) It raises the question about whether a state with poor human and social development indicators should be prevented from enhancing its social justice initiatives.

What should be the way forward?

1) Socio-economic Development- Revising the lists of Backward Classes (BC) or Extremely Backward Communities (EBC) based on progress made over decades could be justified. However, completely preventing efforts to increase representation for historically deprived groups may not be fair.

2) Revision of Ceiling Limit- The 50% cap on reservations may be an arbitrary restriction. This implies the necessity for a more refined approach in balancing social justice with legal constraints.

Question for practice

Why was the state government’s argument rejected by the High Court? What steps should be taken next?

GS PAPER - 3

Environmental concerns in India

Source: The post environmental concerns in India has been created, based on the article “Create the space for governance with a green heart” published in “The Hindu” on 24th June 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3-Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation

Context: The article discusses India’s urgent need for genuine environmental policies. It criticizes the government’s lackluster response to environmental degradation, including deforestation, city pollution, Himalayan damage, and ineffective environmental impact assessments. It calls for real action to protect the environment and public health.

What are the major environmental concerns in India?

1. Climate Change Vulnerability: Despite frequent mentions, India has taken limited action on climate change. Rising energy consumption has not been matched by emissions cuts. Floods, famines, and droughts are becoming more common, requiring better contingency plans.
2. Forest Cover: India has only 28 trees per person, compared to Canada’s 8,953 and China’s 130. Forest cover has significantly decreased in the last 20 years. The Forest (Conservation) Amendment Bill, 2023, exacerbates this issue.
3. Urban Pollution: Cities like Delhi and Mumbai suffer from severe air pollution. Bengaluru and Delhi face water shortages. Rivers like the Yamuna have become sewers. Only 28% of urban sewage is treated nationwide.
4. Himalayan Degradation: Glaciers are receding rapidly, with up to 80% forecast to disappear this century. Changes in rainfall and temperature patterns have significantly impacted the region. This affects water and food security in North India. Protests in Ladakh have been ignored.
5. Ineffective Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs): EIAs have become mere formalities. Projects like the Char Dham Highway have caused significant environmental damage. EIAs need stronger legal status.
6. Wetlands and marginal landscapes, crucial for biodiversity, face increasing threats due to climate change and poor conservation efforts.

What should be done?

1. Reduce Emissions: Implement strict policies to cut down emissions. Prioritize clean energy sources beyond solar energy.
2. Improve Climate Resilience: Develop contingency plans for floods, famines, and droughts. Update building guidelines and preserve natural barriers like mangrove forests.
3. Protect the Himalayas: Address glacier retreat and changing weather patterns. Respond to protests from affected areas like Ladakh.
4. Strengthen EIAs: Elevate EIAs to statutory status. Ensure meaningful stakeholder participation.

Avoid Greenwashing: Replace green credits and compensatory afforestation with genuine conservation efforts. Strengthen enforcement mechanisms for environmental laws.

For detailed information on Greenwashing read this article here

Question for practice:

Discuss the effectiveness of India’s current environmental policies in addressing key concerns.

Issues and status of the Kavach Signaling System

Source: The post issues and status of the Kavach Signaling System has been created, based on the article “Indian Railways and safety challenges” published in “The Hindu” on 24th June 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3-infrastructure

Context: The article discusses a recent train accident in India involving deaths and injuries. It critiques Indian Railways’ safety practices, the slow implementation of a new signaling system called Kavach, and the need for better management and technology use to prevent future accidents.

For detailed information on The Issue of Indian Railway Safety read this article here

How has Indian Railways improved safety?

1. Track Maintenance: Indian Railways has focused on maintaining tracks better, reducing the risk of accidents.
2. Closing Unmanned Level Crossings: Efforts have been made to close unmanned level crossings, which has decreased accidents.
3. Government Investment: The Union government allocated nearly 25% of its total capital expenditure to railways, ensuring funding for safety improvements.
4. Kavach System: The indigenous Kavach signaling system, designed to prevent collisions, was tested over 1,400 kilometers on the Southern Central Railway and is being implemented on key routes.
5. Prioritizing Safety Roles: Despite issues, Indian Railways has revised recruitment targets for critical safety positions to reduce staff shortages.

What are the issues with railway safety?

1. Insufficient Implementation of Safety Measures: Despite the government allocating nearly 25% of its capex to railways, the implementation of safety measures like the Kavach signaling system has been slow.
2. Miscommunication and Premature Blame: The premature declaration of the cause of accidents by high-level officials leads to misinformation, as seen when the Chairperson of the Railway Board incorrectly announced details about the train crew involved in the accident.
3. Staffing Shortages: There are nearly 20,000 vacancies in critical safety roles like loco pilots, contributing to overwork and potential safety lapses, with only a recent adjustment in recruitment targets following public pressure after the accident.

What is the status of the Kavach Signaling System?

1. Slow Implementation: Kavach, an indigenous signaling system, was chosen over the European ETCS Level II system three years ago.
2. Limited Rollout: Despite successful trials over 1,400 kilometers on the Southern Central Railway, implementation has been slow.
3. Missed Targets: The system is under implementation on the Delhi-Howrah and Delhi-Mumbai sections, but completion targets have been missed.
4. Industry Capacity Issues: The Railway Board Chairperson cited limited industry capacity as a reason for the slow rollout.
5. Safety Recommendations: The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) recommended prioritizing Kavach in Automatic Signaling territories and faster installation in locomotives to prevent collisions.

Way forwards

A statutory inquiry by the CRS is underway to determine the cause and responsibility for the accident. The inquiry should address managerial issues to create a safer railway system. Better management and technology, like the Kavach system, can help prevent future accidents.

Question for practice:

Discuss the progress and challenges of implementing the Kavach signaling system on Indian Railways.

Climate Change and Cooperative Federalism

Source-This post on Climate Change and Cooperative Federalism  has been created based on the article “Cooperative federalism can plug India’s climate adaptation deficit” published in “Live Mint” on 24 June 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-3– Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment.

GS Paper-2- Devolution of Powers and Finances up to Local Levels and Challenges Therein.

Context– India has seen significant innovations recently, such as Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) like Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), which have greatly improved financial inclusion. These achievements highlight India’s capacity to solve complex issues through innovative solutions

Despite these successes, one of India’s most pressing challenges is its insufficient response to climate change. The slow action in adapting to climate change threatens India’s future, risking the progress made in other areas.

What is the multi-dimensional impact of Climate Change?

1) Environment and Ecology: –Climate change manifests in India through erratic monsoons, extreme heatwaves, rising sea levels, and increased natural disasters. The country faces risks of longer-lasting heat waves and wildfires in forest areas.

2) Agriculture and Food Security -It presents an existential crisis for India, home to a significant portion of the global population. The majority of Indians are vulnerable to climate change-induced disasters, especially those dependent on agriculture for livelihood and food security, which heavily relies on favorable climatic conditions.

What are the issues with Climate Change management in India?

1) Governance and Policy-

A) Initiatives such as the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) have been slow, fragmented, and underfunded, focusing more on prevention than adaptation.

B) The Prime Minister’s Council on Climate Change (PMCCC) operates infrequently and lacks adequate staffing.

C) At the policy level, India lacks formal climate legislation, hampering coordinated efforts across federal and state levels.

2) Lack of Financial Capacity of States-

A) State-level units lack the capacity and financial resources to act, despite their responsibility for implementing India’s international commitments.

B) State action plans on climate change, including targets like achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070, suffer from insufficient leadership and limited progress due to resource shortages.

3) Lack of Comprehensive Data-Many Indian workers labor outdoors, risking their safety, productivity, and daily income. Currently, there’s little to no cohesive plan for dealing with extreme heat waves or comprehensive data on illnesses from severe weather patterns.

4) Implementation Gaps in HAPs Across India- Currently, only two out of 37 HAPs in India conduct vulnerability assessments to identify and assist impacted communities. Moreover, HAPs lack the establishment and institutionalization of monitoring systems to ensure adherence.

Read more-Heat Action Plans

5) India’s Development vs. Climate Priorities- India’s main development agenda focuses on helping the poor, while the climate agenda appears more targeted at international forums and wealthy domestic groups. There is a concern that such actions could alienate powerful industrial interests and disrupt the current political and industrial status quo.

What should be the way forward?

1) India must implement strong water conservation measures, building strategic reservoirs, transferring water between basins, and replenishing groundwater through effective policies.

2) Climate-resistant crops must be swiftly developed for each region’s climate conditions, without delay in moving from lab to field.

3) There is a need to invest in long-term programs for afforestation and improve green spaces in urban areas.

4) A national awareness and action plan must be developed involving experts, and it should encourage the private sector to innovate with affordable local solutions.

5) India’s climate adaptation efforts are largely reactive as opposed to being pro-active. Thus, there’s a need for better coordination and resources for local and state-level adaptation plans.

6) Cooperative federalism is essential for the decarbonization of industrial assets and for the adaptation efforts needed to mitigate climate change. Therefore, prioritizing climate adaptation should be a key agenda item for the newly established 16th Finance Commission.

7) Climate action should be treated as a national security issue and integrated into development agendas at all levels of government.

Question for practice

What challenges does India face in managing climate change? What steps should be taken to move forward?

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

V-LEX-02 Mission

Source– This post on V-LEX-02 Mission has been created based on the article “Pushpak, ISRO’s reusable launch vehicle, clears test” published in “Indian Express” on 21 June 2024.

Why in the news?

Recently, ISRO successfully completed the third reusable launch vehicle landing experiment (RLV LEX) at the Aeronautical Test Range in Chitradurga, Karnataka.

About V-LEX-02 Mission

1. The RLV-LEX-02 mission is the third and final test of a series of landing experiments conducted at the Aeronautical Test Range.

2. Mission Objectives: The primary objective of the RLV-LEX-02 mission was to demonstrate the autonomous landing capability of the reusable launch vehicle (RLV) from challenging initial conditions after being released from a helicopter.

3. In this mission, the winged vehicle named Pushpak was lifted by an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter and released from an altitude of 4.5 km.

4. Pushpak autonomously approached the runway, performing cross-range corrections. It then landed precisely on the runway, utilizing a brake parachute, landing gear brakes, and a nose wheel steering system to come to a halt.

5. Reusability and Systems: The winged body and all flight systems used in the RLV-LEX-01 mission were reused in the RLV-LEX-02 mission after receiving the necessary certifications and clearances.

6. The mission was accomplished through the collaboration of the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), the Liquid Propulsion System Centre (LPSC), and the ISRO Inertial Systems Unit (IISU).

About Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV)

1. The reusable launch vehicle is essentially a space plane with a low lift-to-drag ratio, requiring it to approach at high glide angles and necessitating a landing at high velocities of 350 km/h.

2. The RLV utilizes several indigenous systems, including localized navigation systems based on pseudolite systems, as well as instrumentation and sensor systems developed by ISRO.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and Technology

India-Russia- Draft Logistics Agreement

Source– This post on Draft Logistics Agreement has been created based on the article “After years, Russia approves draft logistics agreement to be signed with India” published in “The Hindu” on 24 June 2024.

Why in the news?

The Russian government has approved a draft logistics agreement with India. It marks a significant step in enhancing military cooperation between the two nations.

About Draft Logistics Agreement with India

1. Purpose of the Agreement: The logistics pact will facilitate mutual logistical support during various military operations, including peacekeeping missions, humanitarian assistance, and joint military exercises.

2. The agreement will simplify military-to-military exchanges for exercises, training, port calls and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) efforts. The support includes essential services like refuelling, maintenance, and supply provisions. This would increase the interoperability between the armed forces.

3. Once accepted, the agreement will be effective for five years and will automatically renew unless either party decides to terminate it.

4. This draft logistics pact continues the longstanding military relationship between Russia and India. In 2021, the two countries signed a comprehensive agreement on military-technical cooperation extending until 2030.

5. Other Agreements: India has similar logistics agreements with the United States, France, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, and Japan.

6. Strategic Benefits: These pacts have been crucial in enhancing India’s strategic reach and operational readiness, enabling longer and more complex military deployments.

UPSC Syllabus: Defence

MPs term and oath

Source– This post on MPs term and oath has been created based on the article “18th Lok Sabha session begins today: How do MPs take oath? What happens if an MP is in jail?” published in “Indian Express” on 24 June 2024.

Why in the news?

The 18th Lok Sabha’s first session will start on Monday. Before the House begins its legislative work, the newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) must take the oath as provided in the Constitution.

About the term of a Lok Sabha MP

1. Lok Sabha MP’s Term: The five-year term of a Lok Sabha MP begins when the Election Commission of India (ECI) declares the results according to Section 73 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

2. From that day onward, MPs are eligible for certain rights as elected representatives.

3. The start of their term means that if MPs change their party allegiance, their political party can ask the Speaker to disqualify them from Parliament under the anti-defection law.

4. Requirements for an MP to Participate in Lok Sabha:

i) Winning the election and starting the term does not automatically allow an MP to participate in House proceedings.

ii) To debate and vote in Lok Sabha, an MP must take a seat in the House by making and subscribing to an oath or affirmation as prescribed in the Constitution (Article 99).

iii) The Constitution specifies a financial penalty of Rs 500 if a person participates or votes in House proceedings without taking the oath (Article 104). This is the only financial penalty mentioned in the Constitution.

5. Exception: An individual can become a minister without being elected to Parliament. They have six months to secure a seat in either Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha. During this time, they can participate but not vote in House proceedings.

About Parliamentary oath

1. The text of the parliamentary oath is found in the third schedule of the Constitution.

2. Before taking the oath, MPs must submit their election certificate to the Lok Sabha staff. This requirement was introduced after a 1957 incident where a mentally unsound individual posed as an MP and took the oath.

3. Once verified, MPs can take the oath or affirmation in English or any of the 22 languages specified in the Constitution. Approximately half of the MPs take their oath in Hindi or English. Sanskrit has also become a popular choice in recent Lok Sabhas.

4.  MPs must use the name mentioned in their election certificate and adhere to the exact text of the oath.

5. MPs can choose between swearing in the name of God or making a solemn affirmation.

6. The Constitution specifies that if an MP does not attend Parliament for 60 days, their seat can be declared vacant. Courts have used this ground to allow MPs in jail to take an oath in Parliament.

UPSC Syllabus: Polity and nation

Ethanol and methanol production

Source– This post on Ethanol and methanol production  has been created based on the article ” How is Methanol procured and used as a liqour” published in “The Hindu” on 24 June 2024.

Why in the news?

The Kallakurichi illicit liquor tragedy has claimed over 50 lives. Similar tragedies happen across India, often due to methanol consumption.

About the Cause of the Tragedy:

1. It is possible that methanol wasn’t removed during the crude distillation process by the bootleggers. The large-scale tragedy suggests methanol was likely procured and added separately to the illicit liquor.

2. Reason for Methanol Use: There is a belief that methanol, if diluted can provide intoxication at a lower cost.

About Ethanol and methanol production:

1. Ethanol/ anhydrous ethyl alcohol having chemical formula of C2H5OH, can be produced from crops like sugarcane, maize, wheat, etc which have high starch content.

2. Production: It is made through a biological process. Molasses, a by-product of making sugar, are used to start the production process.

3. The molasses are used to produce rectified spirit, which is further distilled to make extra neutral alcohol. This alcohol is then used to make Indian Made Foreign Liquor.

4. In responsible distilleries, methanol is also produced but carefully removed because the processes are highly controlled.

Methanol:

1. Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol, is an alternative fuel for internal combustion and other engines, where it is often used in combination with gasoline.

2. The chemical is generally derived from fossil or natural gas. It can also be made through synthesis of carbon-dioxide and hydrogen.

3. Methanol is poisonous, and even small amounts can be very dangerous and potentially fatal.

3. Despite its toxicity, methanol is essential for producing many useful products. For example- Paints cannot be made without methanol.

Preventive Measures:

i) Strong central legislation is needed to work with state laws to control the methanol supply chain.

ii)  Effective implementation of laws is crucial, especially with plans to increase ethanol and methanol production as eco-friendly fuel alternatives.

iii) Keeping methanol and ethanol separate and preventing pilferage should be prioritized.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology

Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) new safety standards on electric Vehicles

Source– This post on Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) new safety standards has been created based on the article “Bureau of Indian Standards introduces two new standards to enhance Safety and Quality of Electric Vehicles in India” published in “PIB” on 22 June 2024.

Why in the news?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has introduced two new safety standards for electric vehicles, IS 18590: 2024 and IS 18606: 2024.  These standards focus on the critical component of electric vehicles—the powertrain—ensuring it meets stringent safety requirements. Additionally, they emphasize the safety and performance of batteries, ensuring they are both powerful and secure.

About Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) new safety standards

1. These standards ensure that critical component of electric vehicles- the powertrain- of electric vehicles in the L, M, and N categories meets strict safety requirements. These standards also emphasise on the performance and security of the batteries used in electric vehicles.

2.  BIS has introduced another standard, IS 18294: 2023, specifically for E-rickshaws and E-Karts. This standard covers all aspects from construction to functionality to ensure the safety of both drivers and passengers.

3. BIS now has a total of 30 standards dedicated to electric vehicles and their accessories, including charging systems.

4. These new standards are essential for promoting a sustainable, environmentally friendly, and efficient transportation system in India.

UPSC Syllabus: Governance

INS Sunayna

Source– This post on INS Sunayna has been created based on the article “INS SUNAYNA AT PORT LOUIS, MAURITIUS” published in “PIB” on 22 June 2024.

Why in the news?

Recently, INS Sunayna entered Port Louis, Mauritius.

About INS Sunayna

Aspects	Description
About	INS Sunayna is a Saryu class Offshore Patrol Vessel, commissioned at Kochi. It operates under the Southern Naval Command.
Built by	The ship was built at Goa Shipyard Limited.
Features	1. It is designed for fleet support operations, coastal and offshore patrolling, ocean surveillance, monitoring Sea Lines of Communication and offshore assets, and escort duties. 2. It is capable of achieving speeds of up to 25 knots. 3. It is equipped with an automatic power management system. 4. It is fitted with the latest navigation, communication, and electronic support systems. 5. Other ships in the Saryu class include INS Sumitra and INS Sumedha.

UPSC Syllabus: Defence

The Telecommunications Act 2023

Source– This post on The Telecommunications Act 2023 has been created based on the article “The Telecommunications Act, 2023: Ushering in new era of connectivity” published in “PIB” on 22 June 2024.

Why in the news?

Recently, Union Government issued Gazette Notification for enforcing sections 1, 2, 10 to 30, 42 to 44, 46, 47, 50 to 58, 61 and 62 of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.

About the Telecommunications Act, 2023

1. The Telecommunications Act 2023 aims to update and unify the laws related to developing, expanding, and operating telecommunication services and networks. It also covers the assignment of spectrum and other related matters.

2. This new Act replaces older laws like the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and the Indian Wireless Telegraph Act, 1933, due to significant technological advancements in the telecom sector.

3. The Act promotes digital implementation, including online dispute resolution and other frameworks.

4. It is guided by principles like Inclusion (Samavesh), Security (Suraksha), Growth (Vriddhi) and Responsiveness (Tvarit).

Key Features:

1. The Act clearly defines various telecom-related terms. This reduces uncertainties and improving investor confidence, which aids in ease of doing business.

2. It provides an effective Right of Way (RoW framework) for both public and private properties. It includes government agencies, local bodies, and PPP projects like airports, seaports, and highways.

Note- RoW framework is one in which a public entity that owns the land has to grant ‘right of way’ permission expeditiously unless it gives a substantive ground for refusal.

3. Telecommunication infrastructure will be considered separate from the property it is on. This will reduce disputes when the property is sold or leased.

4. The Central Government will establish common ducts and cable corridors, in line with the PM Gati Shakti vision.

5. The Act empowers setting standards and conformity assessments for telecommunication services, networks, and security to ensure national security and promote Indian technology.

6. Universal Service Obligation Fund- It has been expanded to support services in underserved areas and fund research and development of telecom services and technologies.

UPSC Syllabus: Polity and nation