9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 26th August, 2024

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Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 1

Increasing frequency of landslides in the Sedongpu Gully of the Tibetan Plateau

Source: The post increasing frequency of landslides in the Sedongpu Gully of the Tibetan Plateau has been created, based on the article “Frequent mass wasting in Tibet a cause for worry in India” published in “The Hindu” on 26th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 1- geography- changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps)

Context: The article discusses the increasing frequency of landslides in the Sedongpu Gully of the Tibetan Plateau, linked to warming temperatures and earthquakes. These events could cause severe flooding and sediment issues in India’s northeast, particularly affecting the Brahmaputra River.

For detailed information on Making sense of Assam floods read Article 1, Article 2

What is Happening in the Sedongpu Gully?

  1. The Sedongpu Gully is in the Tibetan Plateau, near the border with Arunachal Pradesh, India. It is 11 km long and drains into the Tsangpo River, which becomes the Siang River in India. The Tsangpo creates one of the world’s deepest gorges, called the Great Bend.
  2. Since 2017, more than 700 million cubic meters of debris have been mobilized in the Sedongpu Gully. This area has seen a rapid increase in mass-wasting events, including landslides.
  3. The main causes are warming temperatures and earthquakes, with 13 major events happening after 2017.
  4. Before 2012, temperatures in the area rarely exceeded 0º C. From 1981 to 2018, annual temperatures increased by 0.34º to 0.36º C, higher than the global average. This warming is contributing to more landslides and instability in the region.

What are the potential impacts on India and Bangladesh?

  1. The sediment from these landslides could cause significant problems downstream in India and Bangladesh.
  2. The Brahmaputra River, one of the world’s most sediment-laden rivers, could carry even more sediment, leading to more severe flooding, riverbank erosion, and navigation issues.
  3. The 2000 flash floods in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, caused by a similar landslide in Tibet, are a worrying example.

Why is there concern over dams in the region?

  1. China plans to build a massive 60-gigawatt hydropower project on the Tsangpo River.
  2. This project could increase the risk of river choking and flash floods, especially in a geologically unstable area.
  3. India’s planned dams on the Siang could also face similar risks, potentially affecting millions of people downstream.

What Should be Done?

  1. Monitor Geophysical Events: Regularly observe landslides, rockfalls, and other erosional activities in the Sedongpu Gully and surrounding areas to anticipate future risks.
  2. Focus on Sediment Management: Address the increasing sediment load in the Brahmaputra River, which carries more than 800 tonnes at Guwahati, to prevent severe flooding and erosion.
  3. Evaluate Impact of Dams: Reassess plans for large dams like China’s 60-gigawatt project on the Tsangpo and India’s Siang projects, considering the region’s geophysical instability and past events like the 2000 Arunachal floods.

Question for practice:

Examine how the warming temperatures and earthquakes in the Sedongpu Gully region contribute to increased landslides and their potential impacts on downstream areas in India and Bangladesh.

GS PAPER - 2

J.S. Verma Committee recommendations and the government’s decision on it

Source: The post J.S. Verma Committee recommendations and the government’s decision on it has been created, based on the article “What did the 2013 panel say on death penalty for rape?” published in “The Hindu” on 26th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- Governance-mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections

Context: The article discusses the Justice J.S. Verma Committee’s recommendations on sexual assault laws. It also includes its opposition to the death penalty for rape, the government’s decision to introduce death penalty in certain rape cases, and the committee’s stance on gender rights and marital rape.

For detailed information on Women Safety in India read this article here

What did the Justice J.S. Verma Committee recommend?

  1. Enhanced Sentences for Rape: The committee recommended increasing the punishment for rape to a minimum of 10 years, which could extend up to 20 years or life imprisonment, but explicitly advised against the death penalty.
  2. Against the Death Penalty: It argued that the death penalty does not serve as an effective deterrent against crimes, supporting this view with data that showed a consistent decline in murder rates in India over the last 20 years, despite fewer executions since 1980.
  3. Marital Rape: The committee advised removing the marital exemption for rape, asserting that marriage should not be considered a defense against the charges of rape.

For detailed information on The Issue of Marital Rape read this article here

  1. Gender Rights and Empowerment: The committee emphasized the need for true empowerment of women, which goes beyond political equality to include social, educational, and economic equality. It noted that changing social mindsets and overcoming gender biases require systemic changes in education and societal behavior, supported by leadership in society.

What was the Union Cabinet’s decision?

  1. Death Penalty Introduction: Contrary to the committee’s advice, the Cabinet introduced the death penalty for severe rape cases. For example, under Section 376A of the Indian Penal Code, the death penalty is applied for rape leading to the victim’s death or a persistent vegetative state.
  2. Further Amendments in 2018: The laws were expanded to include the death penalty for gang rape of a girl under 12 years old (Section 376DB) and life-long imprisonment if the victim is under 16 (Section 376DA).
  3. Marital Rape Exemption: The Cabinet did not criminalize marital rape, maintaining the exemption for husbands if the wife is over 18 years old under the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Question for practice:

Examine how the Justice J.S. Verma Committee’s recommendations on the death penalty and marital rape differ from the Union Cabinet’s decisions on these issues.

Challenges faced by challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PwDs) in India

Source: The post challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PwDs) in India has been created, based on the article “Investing in persons with disabilities” published in “The Hindu” on 26th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- governance- mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections

Context: The article discusses the challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PwDs) in India, including social stigma, lack of educational and job opportunities, and poor infrastructure. It highlights the need for better inclusion policies in both education and employment to ensure dignity and equality for PwDs.

For detailed information on persons with disabilities (PwDs) in India read Article 1, Article 2

What challenges do persons with disabilities (PwDs) face in India?

  1. Social Stigma and Marginalization: PwDs are often seen as objects of pity, helplessness, or ridicule, which erodes their identity and dignity. This negative portrayal contributes to societal attitudes that exclude and discriminate against PwDs.
  2. Educational Challenges: Less than 1% of India’s educational institutions are disabled-friendly. Only 40% of school buildings have ramps, and approximately 17% have accessible restrooms.
  3. Employment Barriers: In 2023, only 5 out of 50 Nifty 50 companies had more than 1% PwDs on their rolls, mostly in public sector companies. Despite legislative mandates, the implementation of inclusive policies is lacking.
  4. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, offers reservations in government jobs and incentives in private jobs, but implementation is weak.
  5. Lack of Dignity and Representation: PwDs are often portrayed negatively, leading to a lack of dignity and identity. Instances of mockery, such as in a viral video by former cricketers, highlight ongoing societal challenges.

How do other countries and institutions support PwDs?

  1. Stanford University, USA: Stanford provides robust support structures, including housing assistance and devices for PwDs. It also has a comprehensive resource center dedicated to supporting students with disabilities.
  2. Brazil: Companies with over 100 employees must ensure that 2%-5% of their workforce consists of PwDs. Non-compliance results in fines based on the company size and repeated offenses.
  3. Japan: Japan offers subsidies to employers who hire PwDs, encouraging their inclusion in the workforce.

What Can Be Done to Improve the Situation?

  1. Shiv Nadar University in India provides a good model by offering personalized support to PwD students based on individual needs and conditions. However, such measures are not widespread.
  2. The University Grants Commission has proposed guidelines for accessibility in higher education, but the actual presence of PwDs in educational settings remains low.
  3. Encouraging respectful representation can help reduce societal stigma and improve dignity for PwDs.

Question for practice:

Discuss the challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PwDs) in India and the measures that can be taken to improve their situation.

New-age gateway devices are causing a public health crisis

Source: The post New-age gateway devices are causing a public health crisis has been created, based on the article “New-age gateway devices, the latest health threat” published in “The Hindu” on 26th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- Governance-Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health

Context: The article discusses how devices like e-cigarettes and vapes, once marketed as safer alternatives to smoking, are now causing a public health crisis. They are particularly harmful to children, leading to addiction, physical harm, and mental health issues.

For detailed information on Electronic Cigarettes Act,2019 read this article here

What are the new-age gateway devices?

  1. New-age gateway devices like e-cigarettes, vaping pens, and heated tobacco products (HTPs) were marketed as healthier alternatives to smoking.
  2. However, they have instead caused a public health crisis. These devices are harming both the physical and mental health of children, making the problem worse.

What are the Impacts of such devices?

  1. Increased Youth Addiction: A survey published by JAMA Network Open in November 2022 found that adolescent e-cigarette users are highly addicted, often using their first tobacco product within five minutes of waking. E-cigarettes deliver nicotine more efficiently than traditional cigarettes, increasing addiction.
  2. Targeted Marketing: Manufacturers target children with flavors like strawberry and cotton candy. These flavors, combined with appealing ads, make vaping attractive to young users. Children, especially those aged 10 to 20, are vulnerable due to peer pressure and the desire to fit in.
  3. Psychological Harm: Vaping is linked to loneliness, depression, anxiety, and suicidal behaviors among adolescents. The Australian Institute of Family Studies reports that these devices contribute to significant mental health challenges in young users.
  4. Physical Health Risks: Users face physical health risks, including lung damage and conditions like EVALI. The use of benzoic acid in newer e-cigarettes enhances nicotine delivery, increasing addiction and potential health consequences.
  5. Gateway to Harder Substances: Vaping is often mistakenly perceived as harmless. However, it can lead to experimenting with more dangerous substances like cannabis, cocaine, and heroin, raising long-term substance abuse concerns.

Question for practice:

Examine how new-age gateway devices like e-cigarettes and vaping pens have contributed to increased youth addiction and mental health issues.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

India Donates BHISHM Cubes to Ukraine for Emergency Medical Care

Source- This post on India Donates BHISHM Cubes to Ukraine for Emergency Medical Care has been created based on the articleWhat are BHISHM Cubes that India donated to Ukraine for emergency medical care? published in “Deccan Herald” on 26th August 2024.

Why in News?

India will provide humanitarian assistance to Ukraine by donating four Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita & Maitri (BHISHM) Cubes.

What are BHISHM Cubes?

India Donates BHISHM Cubes to Ukraine for Emergency Medical Care
Source: DH

1. The BHISHM Cube is a portable medical hospital developed as part of the Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita, and Maitri (Project BHISHM). 

2. It is specifically designed to offer rapid and comprehensive medical assistance in emergency situations, such as disaster-hit regions.

Key Features of the BHISHM Cube

1. Advanced Medical Facilities: The cube is equipped with essential medical equipment, including an operating theater, X-ray machines, blood testing equipment, and ventilators. This enables it to handle a wide range of medical emergencies effectively.

2. High Capacity and Quick Deployment: It is capable of treating up to 200 casualties. The BHISHM Cube can be fully operational in just 12 minutes, providing swift medical support.

3. AI and Data-Driven Management: The cube utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) and data analysis to efficiently coordinate, monitor, and manage medical services, enhancing the quality and speed of care provided.

4. Durability and Portability: It is designed to be robust, waterproof, and lightweight. The BHISHM Cube can withstand harsh environments, making it ideal for deployment in various challenging conditions.

5. User-Friendly Technology: The cube comes with a dedicated app that provides medical professionals with real-time information on available supplies and equipment. The app also includes instructional videos to assist with setup and operation, ensuring smooth and effective use in the field.

Read More: India-Ukraine Relations

UPSC Syllabus: International Relations

Three New Ramsar Sites added

Source – This post on Three new Ramsar sites added has been created based on the article “India adds 3 new Ramsar sites: What are wetlands, why do they matter for the environment?” published in “Indian Express” on 26th August 2024.

Why in News?

India has recently designated three new Ramsar sites. This increases the total number of Ramsar sites in the country to 85. The combined area covered by these sites has now reached an impressive 1,358,068 hectares.

About Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu

Aspects Description
About 1. It is a vast, shallow wetland located in Tamil Nadu.
2. This lake covers an area of 125.865 hectares.
3. The sanctuary is named after King Nanjarayan, who historically restored the lake.
River flowing through it It is located on the banks of the Noyyal River.
Significance It plays a crucial role as a feeding and nesting ground for both resident and migratory birds and serves as an essential water source for local agricultural activities.
Biodiversity This sanctuary is home to a diverse range of species, including 191 bird species, 87 butterfly species, 7 amphibians, 21 reptiles, 11 small mammals, and 77 plant species.
Fauna Pelicans, painted storks, coots, Eurasian coot, spot-billed duck, and numerous herons are commonly found here.

About Kazhuveli Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu

Aspects  Description 
About 1. It is located on the Coromandel Coast, Tamil Nadu.
2. This shallow brackish lake connects to the Bay of Bengal via the Uppukalli Creek and Edayanthittu Estuary.
3. It covers 5,151.6 hectares and was declared Tamil Nadu’s 16th bird sanctuary in 2021.
Ecosystem It consists of salt marshes, mudflats, and shallow waters.
Significance 1. It helps in flood control and groundwater recharge.
2. The lake serves as a feeding ground for long-distance migratory birds from the cold subarctic regions of Central Asia and Siberia, such as Black-tailed Godwits, Eurasian Curlews, White Storks, Ruffs, and Dunlins.
3. It supports numerous globally endangered species, including the black-headed ibis and greater flamingo.
Flora

It includes degraded mangrove patches featuring Avicennia species in the brackish water zones, and extensive reed beds spread over hundreds of acres.

Fauna Spot-billed pelicans, darters, cormorants, herons, egrets, storks, black ibis, spoonbill, flamingo, spot-billed duck, garganey, common pochard, sandpiper, coots, shanks, and terns are found there.

About Tawa Reservoir, Madhya Pradesh

Aspects  Description
About 1. Tawa Reservoir is located in Madhya Pradesh.
2.  It is located within the Satpura Tiger Reserve, marking the western boundary of Satpura National Park and Bori Wildlife Sanctuary.
River flowing through it It is located at the confluence of the Tawa and Denwa rivers. 
Significance 1. It provides irrigation water for surrounding farmlands and supplies drinking water to local communities.
2. It also serves as a major wintering ground for migratory birds.

About Ramsar Convention

1. About: The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty established in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran.

2. Aim: Promoting the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands globally.

3. Goal: To ensure the wise use of wetlands through local, regional, and national efforts, and international cooperation.

4. Mandate: Member countries commit to designating at least one wetland of international importance (Ramsar site) and to sustainably manage all wetlands within their territory.

5. The Convention also encourages international collaboration, policymaking, and capacity building for effective wetland management.

Read more: Other Newly Added Ramsar sites

UPSC Syllabus: Environment

Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)

Source – This post on Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) has been created based on the article “Centre announces Unified Pension Scheme” published in “Indian Express” on 26th August 2024.

Why in News?

The Union Cabinet introduced the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) which will be effective from April 1, 2025. This new scheme combines the best elements of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) and the National Pension Scheme (NPS).

About Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)

1. The Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) has been launched to provide government employees with a steady pension based on their length of service and the most recent basic salary drawn.

2. Aim: It aims to provide a balanced approach to pension management for government employees, combining the stability of the OPS (Old Pension Scheme) with the fiscal responsibility of the NPS (New Pension Scheme).

3. Who can opt for UPS: The UPS is available to all government employees who have retired under the NPS since 2004. They can choose to switch to the UPS and receive arrears adjusted for any amounts already withdrawn under the NPS.

4. Employees have the option to remain with the NPS, but this decision is final once made.

5. Implementation: It is scheduled for implementation from April 1, 2025. 

Features of the Unified Pension Scheme

Features Description 
Assured Pension Minimum Qualifying Service: Employees with a minimum of 25 years of service are eligible for a pension amounting to 50% of the average basic salary drawn during the last 12 months before retirement. 
Shorter Service Periods: For those with less than 25 years but at least 10 years of service, the pension amount will be adjusted according to the length of service. 
Assured Minimum Pension  A minimum pension of Rs 10,000 per month will be provided to employees with at least 10 years of service upon retirement. 
Family Pension The family of a deceased government employee will receive 60% of the employee’s pension at the time of their demise.
Inflation Indexation The pension, family pension, and minimum pension amounts will be adjusted for inflation based on the All India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (AICPI-IW). 
Lump Sum Payment at Superannuation Upon retirement, employees will receive a lump sum payment equal to 10% of their salary and Dearness Allowance (DA) for every six months of completed service. 
This payment is in addition to gratuity and does not reduce the amount of the secured pension.

UPSC Syllabus: Schemes and program 

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