9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 8th July, 2024
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Mains Oriented Articles
GS PAPER - 2
Need to amend the Indus Waters Treaty
Source: The post need to amend the Indus Waters Treaty has been created, based on the article “India, Pakistan and the Indus: Climate change means the revision of a treaty” published in “Indian express” on 8th July 2024
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- International Relations – Bilateral groupings and agreements
Context: The article discusses the need to amend the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan. It highlights India’s call for changes, Pakistan’s arbitration efforts, the impact of climate change, the importance of environmental flows, and the necessity for better data-sharing.
For detailed information on Indus Waters Treaty read this article here
Why Is India Seeking Amendments to the Indus Waters Treaty?
- Dispute Resolution: India is dissatisfied with the current dispute resolution process, pointing to Pakistan’s reluctance to engage effectively, which has led to unresolved issues.
- Climate Change Impact: The Indus basin, ranked as the world’s second most over-stressed aquifer by NASA in 2015, is significantly affected by climate change. About 31% of the river’s flow comes from glaciers and snow melts, which are becoming increasingly volatile.
- Hydroelectric Projects: Disputes such as those over the Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects have intensified, with Pakistan seeking arbitration at The Hague, bypassing treaty-compliant proceedings.
What Issues Has Pakistan Raised?
- Dispute over Hydroelectric Projects: Pakistan objects to India’s Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects and bypassed treaty-compliant Neutral Expert proceedings to seek arbitration at The Hague.
- Lower Riparian Concerns: As a lower riparian state, Pakistan fears infrastructure developments will reduce downstream flows.
- Accusations of “Water Terrorism”: Pakistan accused India of “water terrorism” for the Shahpurkandi barrage project, despite the project’s compliance with the IWT.
- Environmental Flow Issues: Pakistan insists on maintaining environmental flows, supported by the 2013 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling on India’s obligation to release flows downstream of the Kishanganga project.
What should be done?
- Integrate Ecological Perspectives: Incorporate Environmental Flows (EF) to sustain ecosystems, as suggested by the Brisbane Declaration and the 2013 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling on Kishanganga.
- Enhance Data-Sharing: Establish a World Bank-supervised, legally binding data-sharing framework to monitor water quality and flow changes, ensuring accountability.
- Adopt International Legal Standards: Align treaty provisions with the 1997 UN Watercourses Convention and the 2004 Berlin Rules on Water Resources for sustainable water use.
- Recognize Climate Change Impacts: Develop strategies to manage climate change effects, considering NASA’s ranking of the Indus basin as the world’s second most over-stressed aquifer.
Question for practice:
Examine why India is seeking amendments to the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty.
Expunction powers in Parliament
Source-This post on Expunction powers in Parliament has been created based on the article “ On expunction powers in Parliament” published in “The Hindu” on 8 July 2024.
UPSC Syllabus–GS Paper-2- Parliament and State Legislatures—Structure, Functioning, Conduct of Business, Powers & Privileges and Issues Arising out of these.
Context- The inaugural special session of the 18th Lok Sabha witnessed heated debates between the Opposition and the government on multiple issues. The session concluded amid controversies surrounding the deletion of remarks made by Opposition leaders. Article 105 of the Constitution grants MPs certain privileges and freedom of speech in Parliament, though it is bound by other constitutional provisions and parliamentary rules.
The practice of expunging remarks has been questioned recently in the digital age. This is because expunged content remains accessible due to live broadcasts of proceedings and widespread sharing of screenshots and videos on social media.
When are remarks expunged?
1) Verbatim Recording and Removal of Unparliamentary Remarks -Parliament records all speeches and proceedings verbatim. The Chairman (Upper House) and Speaker (Lower House) can order the removal of “defamatory, indecent, unparliamentary, or undignified” words.
2) List of Unparliamentary Words-The Lok Sabha Secretariat maintains a list of ‘unparliamentary’ words. In the Rajya Sabha, rules require immediate withdrawal of unparliamentary words without debate when deemed so by the Chair.
3) Discretion of Speakers-Speakers have discretion to expunge words detrimental to national interest, offensive to dignitaries, or likely to cause offense. For ex -Prime Minister Nehru objected when a member mentioned the President of Pakistan in a certain context, resulting in the removal of those remarks from the record.
Read More– Speaker of Lok Sabha- Functioning and Challenges
4) Withdrawal of Irrelevant Remarks -Members must withdraw irrelevant remarks upon the Chair’s request, or face expunction.
5) Unreferenced Document-Quoting from an unreferenced document or speaking against the Chair’s instruction can also lead to expunction.
What rules govern the statements made by MPs against other MPs or individuals outside Parliament?
1) Procedure for Accusations in Lok Sabha -Rule 353 of the Lok Sabha provides the procedure for MPs accusing another MP or an outsider. Allegations must be notified beforehand, prompting the concerned Minister to investigate and present facts in Parliament. However, if the allegation is not defamatory or incriminating, this rule does not apply.
2) Exclusion of Ministerial Allegations-The rule does not cover allegations against government Ministers because they are accountable to Parliament. MPs have the right to question Ministers and criticize their actions as part of their parliamentary duties.
What is the procedure to expunge the remarks?
1) Authority to Expunge Remarks- The Chairman and Speaker have the authority to order the removal of remarks under Rule 261 of the Rajya Sabha and Rules 380 and 381 of the Lok Sabha’s Rules of Procedure.
2) Recording and Expunging Remarks-Expunged parts are marked with asterisks and noted as ‘expunged as ordered by the Chair.’ If the Chair decides that nothing said during a member’s speech or interruption should be recorded, it is noted as ‘not recorded.’
3) Sharing with Media-A comprehensive list of unacceptable words and phrases is shared with media at the end of each day’s proceedings. Once expunged, these words or phrases are deleted from the official record.
Question for practice
What are the regulations concerning MPs’ statements against other MPs or individuals outside Parliament? How is the process for expunging such remarks defined?
The Impact of Coalition Politics on Fiscal Federalism
Source-This post on The Impact of Coalition Politics on Fiscal Federalism has been created based on the article “The problem of special packages” published in “The Hindu” on 8 July 2024.
UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-2-, Issues and Challenges Pertaining to the Federal Structure, Devolution of Powers and Finances up to Local Levels and Challenges Therein.
Context- The return of coalition politics in India brings opportunities and challenges for fiscal federalism. While it can balance unitary trends, the rise in requests for special packages due to political bargaining endangers fair distribution of resources.
The Indian Constitution is sometimes viewed as quasi-federal. C.H. Alexandrowicz disagreed, stating in Constitutional Developments in India (1957) that it leans federal outside of emergencies. In State of Rajasthan and Others v Union of India (1977), the Supreme Court described India’s political system as amphibious, showing both unitary and federal traits depending on emergencies under Articles 352 and 356.
What is the impact of the return of Coalition Politics on Fiscal Federalism?
1) Demand for Special packages– There is a renewed demand for state-specific discretionary grants, or ‘special packages’, from regional parties. It poses a risk of diverting national resources based on political bargaining rather than genuine needs.
2) Discretionary Grants– Special packages under Article 282 are discretionary and often influenced by state-level political parties’ bargaining power rather than genuine need. Discretionary grants have surpassed Finance Commission recommended grants by almost four times. This raises concerns about India’s federal system’s health.
3) Double Engine Sarkar- The concept of a ‘double engine sarkar’, with one party controlling both Union and State governments, highlights how smaller coalition partners within states advocate for their own interests. Thus, it is important to ensure that allocations adhere to proper procedures and are not based on political interest only.
4) Concerns over fiscal distribution-Some states have raised issues about declining shares in the divisible pool of Union taxes. The 16th Finance Commission is tasked with addressing these concerns.
Read More- 16th Finance Commission
What should be the way forward?
1) Strengthening Fiscal Federalism- Fiscal boundaries, principles of tax assignment, and criteria for grants need to be transparent and equitable. In India’s diverse linguistic, cultural, and economic context, some level of asymmetry in federal arrangements is permissible.However,it should be regulated by clear and stable constitutional provisions.
2) Utilize constitutional mechanisms:
A) Prioritize Finance Commission recommendations for grant allocation.
B) Limit the use of discretionary grants under Article 282.There is a need to Develop objective criteria for grant allocation.
C) Address state-specific issues through constitutional provisions rather than ad-hoc packages.
D) Ensure stability and transparency in addressing asymmetric needs.
Question for practice
What is the impact of the return of Coalition Politics on Fiscal Federalism?
GS PAPER - 3
Idea of creating a government-controlled buffer stock of essential food
Source: The post idea of creating a government-controlled buffer stock of essential food has been created, based on the article “A case for creating a buffer stock of essential food items to even out price fluctuation” published in “Indian express” on 8th July 2024
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3-issues of buffer stocks and food security
Context: The article discusses the idea of creating a government-controlled buffer stock of essential food items like pulses, oilseeds, and vegetables. This would help stabilize food prices by reducing extreme fluctuations caused by supply shocks from events like climate change or pandemics.
For detailed information on Benefits of government buffer stocks in stabilizing food prices read this article here
Why Should the Government Consider a Buffer Stock for Food?
- Stabilize Prices: Buffer stocks of essential foods like pulses, oilseeds, and vegetables help control price volatility, crucial for both consumers and producers. This stability aids in economic planning and reduces the impact of inflation spikes.
- Manage Supply Shocks: Climate-induced disruptions, such as irregular rainfall and heatwaves, have adversely affected crop yields. For example, poor harvests of rabi pulses and vegetables have led to price spikes.
- Support Farmers: Creating buffer stocks allows for the purchase of surplus during good harvests, protecting farmers from drastic price drops. For instance, fluctuations in milk prices from Rs 37-38 to Rs 26-27 per liter have shown how volatile the market can be without such mechanisms.
- Reduce Policy Burden: With buffer stocks, there is less need for restrictive measures like export bans or trader stock limits, promoting a freer market environment conducive to growth.
How Do Food Prices Affect Inflation and RBI’s Decisions?
- Impact on Inflation Rates: Elevated food prices directly affect overall inflation. For instance, despite core inflation being low at 3.1%, retail food inflation remained high at 8.7%.
- RBI’s Monetary Policy Dilemma: High food inflation complicates the Reserve Bank of India’s decisions regarding interest rates. The volatility in food prices makes it challenging to decide whether to cut, raise, or maintain rates.
- Influence on Economic Stability: Stable food prices are essential for economic predictability, influencing consumer spending and business investments. Volatility in essential items like food disrupts this stability.
What are the Benefits of a Buffer Stock Policy?
- Reduces Price Volatility: Buffer stocks help stabilize prices of essential food items, mitigating extreme fluctuations caused by supply shocks due to climate change or other disruptions.
- Eliminates Restrictive Measures: Buffer stocks reduce the need for anti-farmer policies like export bans or imposing stock limits on traders, promoting a freer market.
- Economic Efficiency: Selling stored food during shortages prevents inflation spikes and supports economic stability.
Question for practice:
Discuss how government-controlled buffer stocks of essential food items can stabilize prices and support economic stability.
Changes in India’s National Security Council
Source: The post changes in India’s National Security Council has been created, based on the article “What it means — and could mean — to be India’s National Security Advisor” published in “Indian express” on 8th July 2024
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3-security
Context: The article discusses recent changes in India’s National Security Council, including the addition of a new Additional National Security Advisor (ANSA) and changes in how top security officials report to each other and the Prime Minister. It questions the roles and responsibilities of these positions and the impact of these changes.
For detailed information on National Security Strategy of India read this article here
What Changes Have Been Made to India’s National Security Council?
- New Appointments and Structure: The National Security Council now includes an Additional National Security Advisor (ANSA) along with three deputy NSAs, expanding the leadership structure.
- Change in NSA’s Role: The role of the National Security Advisor (NSA) has shifted to be more advisory rather than operational. The NSA now focuses on working with advisory bodies like the National Security Advisory Board and the Strategic Policy Group.
- Reporting Relationships Altered: The NSA, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), and other key military and civil leaders are required to report both to the NSA and their respective ministers, complicating the chain of command and potentially leading to bureaucratic delays.
- Introduction of Additional Bureaucratic Layer: The ANSA now acts as a gatekeeper in communications between six mid-level unit heads (three deputy NSAs and three service officers) and the NSA, adding a new layer of bureaucracy.
What Are the Broader Implications?
- Uncertainty in Role Definitions: The lack of clear definitions for the roles and responsibilities of the NSA and other security officials could lead to inefficiencies in managing national security.
- Potential for Turf Wars: The restructuring might cause conflicts between different government departments, as seen in potential meetings convened by the NSA with the Cabinet Secretary and other top bureaucrats, potentially upsetting established hierarchies.
- Speculation on Leadership Succession: The restructuring has prompted speculation about the future of the current NSA, Ajit Doval, and whether the new ANSA, Rajinder Khanna, will replace him. This uncertainty could impact strategic continuity and stability.
- Influence on Security Briefings: With the new bureaucratic layer introduced by the ANSA acting as a gatekeeper in communication, there’s uncertainty about whether the NSA or ANSA will handle the PM’s daily security briefings, which affects the direct flow of information to the Prime Minister.
- Hierarchical Discrepancies: Elevating the NSA to a cabinet rank while assigning the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) the rank of a secretary reduces the CDS’s influence in key security discussions, especially since the CDS is not a permanent member of the cabinet committee on security.
- Impact on Defence Strategy: By not having the CDS report directly to the Prime Minister, there may be delays and inefficiencies in addressing urgent defense modernization needs and strategic planning in response to regional security challenges.
Question for practice:
Examine how the recent changes in the structure and reporting relationships within India’s National Security Council might impact the efficiency and effectiveness of managing national security.
India needs skill development to transform its demographic potential into economic growth.
Source: The post India needs skill development to transform its demographic potential into economic growth has been created, based on the article “We need a data-driven strategy to plug our skill gaps” published in “Live mints” on 8th July 2024
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- Economy- Employment
Context: The article discusses India’s young population, which is both an opportunity and a challenge for its economy. It emphasizes the need for skill development to transform this demographic potential into economic growth. It highlights issues like falling labor participation and gaps in skilled labor across various regions.
For detailed information on India Employment Report 2024 read this article here
What is the present condition of India’s workforce?
- Decrease in Labor Participation: India’s labor mobilization has fallen from over 70% in 1990 to 56% in recent years, indicating underutilization of the workforce.
- Shift in Skill Levels: Growth in highly skilled workers (skill levels 3 and 4) has decreased by over 5 percentage points between 2017 and 2022 in 22 states. In contrast, the semi-skilled workforce (skill level 2) has grown significantly, with a national growth rate of 59.5% annually.
- Rural-Urban Skill Gap: Urban areas have higher concentrations of skilled jobs, while rural regions have lower skill intensity, focusing more on agriculture and traditional crafts.
What are the issues with skill development in India?
- Insufficient Formal Training: A considerable portion of the workforce aged 15 to 59 lacks formal vocational or technical training, with the proportion having dropped from 91.9% in 2017-18 to 72.6% in 2022-23, indicating a major gap in formal skill development.
- Skill Intensity Disparity: Rural areas have much lower skill intensity compared to urban areas, which host more skill-intensive industries like IT and financial services. This disparity highlights a need for balanced growth and skill development in rural sectors.
- Reliance on Low-Skilled Labor: Despite growth in the semi-skilled workforce, there is still a significant reliance on low-skilled labor, evident from the 24.8% increase in low-skilled workers between 2017-18 and 2022-23, driven by industries such as construction and manufacturing.
How is the Government Addressing These Gaps?
- Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY): This program significantly boosted the semi-skilled workforce with a 59.5% growth rate from 2017-18 to 2022-23. It focuses on providing skill training and certification.
- Skill India Mission: Aims to expand the workforce’s skills, particularly at skill level 2, which has seen substantial growth.
- Skill Census Proposal by Andhra Pradesh: Led by Chandrababu Naidu, this initiative aims to assess skill levels across regions and sectors to target skill development efforts more accurately, promoting competitive federalism among states.
Way forward
Investing in human capital and using data-driven strategies can turn India’s demographic advantage into economic growth. A skilled workforce will drive innovation, productivity, and national competitiveness, helping India become a developed economy by 2047.
Question for practice:
Discuss the main challenges and initiatives related to skill development in India’s workforce
Crafting a Climate Law for India
Source-This post on Crafting a Climate Law for India has been created based on the article “A law around low-carbon climate resilient development” published in “The Hindu” on 8 July 2024.
UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-3- Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment.
Context– The Supreme Court’s decision in M.K. Ranjitsinh vs Union of India is a big step for legal and governance reforms in India’s approach to climate change. Sixty-seven countries use ‘framework climate laws’ to improve governance. Yet, in developing nations, focusing only on emissions targets may not fully address climate change’s complex challenges.
Thus, India requires a detailed climate law designed for its specific needs. This law should guide development towards a future that is low in carbon emissions and resilient to climate impacts, all while promoting fairness and social justice.
Read More- Climate Change Negotiations after Bonn Climate Meet
What are the key features of climate legislation suited for India’s specific needs?
1) Balancing Development and Carbon Emissions -India has per capita emissions that are less than half the global average, but they are increasing. Therefore, the law should focus on maximizing development while minimizing carbon emissions to prevent high carbon futures.
2) Climate Resilience-India is highly vulnerable to climate impacts, making climate resilience essential in the new law.
3) Social Equity-Social equity must be a central consideration in achieving development in a low-carbon direction.
4) Sustainable Cities-The law should guide decision-making towards developing cities that are both low-carbon and resilient to climate change.
What should be the way forward?
1) Low-Carbon Development Commission: This is an independent body staffed with experts and technical staff, offering practical solutions for low-carbon growth and resilience. This can also serve as a platform for deliberative decision-making, including for vulnerable communities
2) Climate Cabinet: It is a high-level strategic body comprising Ministers and Chief Ministers. This should be tasked with driving strategy through government and addressing siloed decision-making.
3) Coordination Mechanisms: -There is a need to reinvigorate the Executive Committee on Climate Change so that it can complement the role of the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
4) Addressing India’s Federal Structure-
A) Engaging subnational governments in crucial areas (electricity, agriculture, water, health, soil).
B) Providing access to national scientific capacity for subnational governments.
C) Aligning centrally sponsored schemes with climate goals and climate-tagging expenditure.
D) Requiring periodically updated medium-term climate plans from Centre and States.
E) States should be encouraged to establish supporting institutions and develop sector-specific laws and amendments aligned with the framework law.
5) Tailoring the law to India’s developmental context-
A) The law should focus on low-carbon development and climate resilience.
B) There is a need to incorporate social justice and equity concerns while also meeting the needs of vulnerable communities and individuals impacted by technological shifts.
C)There should be a focus on creating knowledge bodies capable of rigorously analyzing policy options.
- D) Platforms for deliberative decision-making should be established.
Question for practice
What are the essential characteristics of climate laws tailored to India’s particular requirements? What steps should be taken moving forward?
Issues with Anusandhan National Research Foundation
Source-This post on Issues with Anusandhan National Research Foundation has been created based on the article “The ANRF plan has got off on the wrong foot” published in “The Hindu” on 8 July 2024.
UPSC Syllabus–GS Paper-3- Achievements of Indians in Science & Technology; Indigenization of Technology and Developing New Technology.
Context– The establishment of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) presents an opportunity to revolutionize India’s research landscape. However, its success depends on addressing the current challenges in governance structure, funding mechanisms, and bureaucratic processes.
In 2023, both Houses of Parliament passed the ANRF Bill, a major achievement for India’s research sector. The scientific community welcomed it, anticipating reduced bureaucracy in academia and more research funding.
What are the objectives of ANRF?
1) Seeding, growing, and facilitating research in India, especially in universities and colleges.
2) Prioritizing the development of outstanding research cells in State Universities, as explicitly mentioned in the 2019 National Research Foundation (NRF) project report.
What are the issues with governance of Anusandhan National Research Foundation?
1) Composition of Governing Bodies -The governing structure includes a 15-member board and a 16-member council. This is dominated by senior government officials and established research institutions.
2) Lack of Diverse Representation:
A) No members from Central or State universities or colleges, despite over 95% of Indian students attending these institutions
B) Inadequate industry representation, with only one member (an Indian American businessman from Silicon Valley)
C) Limited gender diversity, with only one-woman representative (the Secretary of DSIR)
What should be the way forward?
1) Diverse Representation-The board and council should include representatives who understand the challenges faced at the university level. It should be made more diverse by adding more Indian industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and academics from both Central and State universities.
2) Single Committee-A single committee for strategy formulation and implementation should be created.
3) Funding and Research Development- India’s underfunded research and development sector aims to generate over 70% of its funding from non-government and industry sources through ANRF. R&D budget should be enhanced to 4% of GDP to boost research output and global competitiveness.
Read more- India’s R&D Funding Status
3) Reforms in Operational Requirements for ANRF-
A) Adequate staffing
B) Implementation of a robust grant management system
C) Establishment of an internal standard peer-review system with reviewer incentives
D) Timely disbursal of research grants and student fellowships (less than six months turnaround)
E) Reduction of bureaucratic hurdles at funding and grantee institutions
F) Flexible spending without strict adherence to government’s general financial rules (GFR)
G) Permission for purchases outside the Government e-marketplace (GeM) portal.
H) ANRF needs a total overhaul to avoid becoming another typical government department and to better connect research with teaching in universities.
4) Future CEO-The future CEO of the ANRF should possess experience in both industry and academia. He should be able to secure funding for the ANRF and understand the global innovation ecosystem.
Question for practice
What are the governance challenges facing the Anusandhan National Research Foundation, and how should these be addressed moving forward?
Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)
Project PARI
Source- This post on the Project PARI has been created based on the article “Ministry of Culture initiates Project PARI for the 46th World Heritage Committee Meeting” published in “PIB” on 8 July 2024.
Why in the news?
Recently, Ministry of Culture initiates Project PARI for the 46th World Heritage Committee Meeting.
About Project PARI
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1. Project PARI (Public Art of India) is an initiative by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
2. It is executed by Lalit Kala Akademi and the National Gallery of Modern Art.
3. Objectives: Project PARI aims to stimulate dialogue, reflection, and inspiration, contributing to the dynamic cultural fabric of the nation.
4. Project PARI includes a wide array of artwork inspired by traditional Indian art forms.
5. The proposed sculptures for Project PARI explore a wide range of themes, including tributes to nature, ideas inspired by the Natyashastra, Gandhi ji, traditional Indian toys, hospitality, ancient knowledge, Naad or Primeval Sound, Harmony of Life, and Kalpataru (the divine tree).
6. Women artists have been an integral part of Project PARI and their participation in large numbers is a testament to Bharat’s NARI SHAKTI.
UPSC Syllabus: Schemes and programmes
Quantum Standardization and Testing Labs
Source- This post on the Quantum Standardization and Testing Labs has been created based on the article “DoT announces Call for Proposals: Quantum Standardization and Testing Labs” published in “PIB” on 7 July 2024.
Why in the news?
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has announced a call for proposals titled “Quantum Standardization and Testing Labs”.
About Quantum Standardization and Testing Labs
1. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is inviting submissions from Indian academic institutions or R&D institutions, either individually or in partnership.
2. Goal: The primary goal is to accelerate research and development in quantum technologies, ensuring the interoperability, reliability, and security of quantum communication systems.
3. These labs will act as innovation hubs, uniting quantum technology developers, testing equipment manufacturers, and academic researchers to explore and harness the full potential of quantum technologies for the benefit of all citizens.
4. This initiative aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision for ‘Jai Anushandhan’, aiming to support research and development in telecom products and technologies that directly enhance the lives of Indian citizens.
6. The effort supports the development of secure, reliable, and efficient quantum communication systems and also aims to provide all Indian citizens with advanced technologies that improve everyday communication, data security, and overall digital experience.
7. Objectives of the Proposed Labs:
i) Quantum Standardization: Establish benchmarks and protocols essential for the seamless integration of quantum communication elements such as Quantum key distribution (QKD), Quantum state analyzers and optical fibers and components into existing and future communication networks
ii) Testing Facilities: Develop reliable testing facilities to validate quantum concepts, processes, devices, and applications created by Indian industry members, including startups, R&D, and academic institutions.
8. These facilities will support the development of quantum technologies that can be safely and effectively used by citizens in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and finance.
9. These labs aim at easy accessibility to industry, startups, and local telecom stakeholders at a nominal fee, ensuring that the benefits of advanced quantum technologies are available to all.
UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology
World Zoonoses Day
Source- This post on the World Zoonoses Day has been created based on the article “Increasing Public Awareness on World Zoonoses Day: Not All Animal Diseases Are Zoonotic” published in “PIB” on 7 July 2024.
Why in the news?
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying recently organized an interactive session to commemorate World Zoonoses Day.
About World Zoonoses Day
i) It is celebrated in honour of Louis Pasteur who administered the first successful rabies vaccine which is a zoonotic disease on July 6, 1885.
ii) This day is dedicated to raising awareness about zoonoses diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans and promoting preventive and control measures.
About Zoonoses:
i) About: These are infectious diseases that can transfer between animals and humans, such as rabies, anthrax, influenza (H1N1 and H5N1), Nipah, COVID-19, brucellosis, and tuberculosis.
ii) Caused by: These diseases are caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. However, not all animal diseases are zoonotic. Many diseases affect livestock without posing a risk to human health.
iii) Infectious: These non-zoonotic diseases are species-specific and cannot infect humans. Examples include Foot & Mouth Disease, PPR, Lumpy Skin Disease, Classical Swine Fever, and Ranikhet Disease.
Prevention and control
i) Prevention and control of zoonotic diseases rely on vaccination, good hygiene, animal husbandry practices, and vector control.
ii) Collaborative efforts through the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, are crucial.
iii) Collaboration among veterinarians, medical professionals, and environmental scientists is essential for addressing zoonotic diseases comprehensively.
iv) To mitigate the risk of zoonotic diseases, the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) has launched a nationwide campaign for Brucella vaccination of bovine calves under NADCP and undertaken Rabies Vaccination under ASCAD.
v) Educating the public about the distinction between zoonotic and non-zoonotic diseases helps reduce unwarranted fear and promotes a more informed approach to animal health and safety.
UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology
Rising Arctic Wildfires
Source- This post on the Rising Arctic Wildfires has been created based on the article “Why rising Arctic wildfires are a bad news for the world” published in “Indian Express” on 8 July 2024.
Why in the news?
In recent years, the rise in Arctic wildfires has become a global concern.
About Rising Arctic Wildfires
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1. Wildfires are a natural part of the Arctic’s boreal forest and tundra ecosystems.
2. Recent years have seen an increase in the frequency and scale of these fires, particularly in regions like Sakha, Russia, which experienced over 160 wildfires charring nearly 460,000 hectares of land by June 24, 2024.
3. June 2024 saw the third-highest carbon emissions from Arctic wildfires in the past two decades, following June 2020 and 2019.
Reasons for Worsening Wildfires:
i) The Arctic is warming approximately four times faster than the global average. Since 1980, the Arctic has become about 3°C warmer.
ii) Increased warming leads to more frequent lightning strikes, which have more than doubled in Alaska and the Northwest Territories since 1975.
iii) A slowed polar jet stream due to reduced temperature differences between the Arctic and lower latitudes results in prolonged warm weather and intense heatwaves, further increasing wildfire risk.
Future Projections
i) Rising temperatures, more frequent lightning, and heatwaves are expected to worsen, leading to more frequent wildfires.
ii) By 2050, wildfires in the Arctic and globally could increase by one-third. (Estimated by the World Wild Fund).
Impact on Global Warming
i) Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Wildfires release significant amounts of greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. While GHG emissions from wildfires are concerning, Arctic wildfires pose a greater threat due to the carbon stored in permafrost.
ii) Permafrost Thawing: Arctic permafrost contains around 1,700 billion metric tons of carbon, including CO2 and methane, which is about 51 times the global fossil fuel emissions of 2019.
iii) Wildfires destroy insulating layers of vegetation and soil, making permafrost more susceptible to thawing.
iv) Thawing permafrost releases ancient organic materials, leading to the decomposition and release of stored carbon into the atmosphere.
Potential Consequences: A large-scale thawing of Arctic permafrost would lead to an uncontrollable release of carbon. This could prevent the world from limiting global warming to within the 1.5°C threshold, resulting in catastrophic and irreversible consequences.
Lack of Monitoring and Urgency for Action
i) Post-fire permafrost emissions are not currently tracked and are not included in climate models. This lack of data makes it difficult to estimate their full contribution to climate change.
ii) Scientists emphasized that Arctic changes amplify global risks, highlighting the need for immediate and sustained efforts to combat this crisis.
UPSC Syllabus: Environment
Digital Bharat Nidhi
Source- This post on the Digital Bharat Nidhi has been created based on the article “What is Digital Bharat Nidhi, govt’s fresh attempt at improving rural telecom connectivity?” published in “The Hindu” on 6 July 2024.
Why in the news?
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) released draft rules for the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) on July 4, 2024. The purpose of DBN is to increase telecom connectivity in rural areas. Digital Bharat Nidhi will replace the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF).
About Digital Bharat Nidhi
1. About: Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) is an initiative by Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
2. Aim: DBN aims to:
i) improve internet connectivity, particularly in rural, remote, and economically disadvantaged areas.
ii) foster technology innovation, create regulatory sandboxes, and enhance the global presence of India’s telecom sector.
iii) promote innovation, indigenous technology development, and standardisation.
iv) support startups in the telecom sector and the manufacturing of telecom equipment.
4. It replaces the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) to ensure better allocation of resources.
5. Focus: DBN will focus on research, development, and overall connectivity improvement. It encourages telecom services for underserved groups, including women and people with disabilities.
6. Funding: Telecom companies’ contributions to the Digital Bharat Nidhi will first be credited to the Consolidated Fund of India (CFI) and then later deposited into the DBN.
7. Utilisation of funds: The funds will be used to promote access to telecommunication services, support research and development, fund pilot projects, and introduce new telecom technologies in underserved areas.
8. Management and Implementation: An administrator will manage the fund, and projects will be executed by implementers selected through bidding or direct applications, ensuring transparency. The administrator will tailor payment methods (full, partial, co-funding) based on specific connectivity needs.
About Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF):
i) It was established in 2003 to enhance telecom services in less financially viable regions.
ii) It was funded by a 5% levy on telecom operators adjusted gross revenue (AGR). However, only about 72% of the Rs 41,740 crore received between 2017 and 2022 was utilized.
UPSC Syllabus: Indian Economy
Samayapurathu Mariamman Temple
Source- This post on the Samayapurathu Mariamman Temple has been created based on the article “Coffee-table book on over 1,200-year-old Samayapuram Mariamman temple released” published in “The Hindu” on 8 July 2024.
Why in the news?
In recognition of the temple’s cultural and spiritual significance, The Hindu Group of Publications has released a coffee-table book titled “Samayapuram — The Sacred Seat of Shakti.”
About Samayapurathu Mariamman Temple
1. The Samayapuram Mariamman Temple is located near Tiruchi in Tamil Nadu.
2. It is one of the most revered and ancient temples dedicated to Goddess Mariamman. She is considered an incarnation of Goddess Durga, Mahakali, Adi Shakti, or Nishumbha Sudhini.
3. Historical Background: The current structure of the temple was built by King Vijayaraya Chakkaravarthi in the early 18th century. However, the Goddess was worshipped by locals for centuries before this structure was constructed.
4. Significance: The temple is rich in history and mythology, with many legends surrounding Goddess Mariamman. It is believed that she appeared in this area to protect her devotees and heal their ailments. The temple’s ancient origins add to its mystique and spiritual significance.
4. Architecture:
i) The temple complex features intricately carved pillars, towering gopurams (gateway towers), and spacious halls that resonate with the chants and prayers of devotees.
ii) The sanctum sanctorum houses the idol of Goddess Mariamman, adorned with vibrant flowers, intricate jewelry, and colorful garments, exuding a divine and majestic presence.
iii) The Raja Gopuram or the main tower of the temple is adorned with gold plates that glow brightly during the daytime.
iv) A unique feature of this temple is that the presiding deity can be seen from the main entrance, which is not common in most temples
5. Festivals and Rituals
i) The temple is renowned for its vibrant and elaborate festivals which attract thousands of devotees.
ii) Among the most significant is the annual ‘Poochoriyal’ festival, where devotees offer flowers to the Goddess, seeking her blessings for health, prosperity, and protection.
iii) Other notable festivals include the ‘Panguni Uthiram’ and the ‘Thai Poosam,’ which are marked by grand processions, music, dance, and religious fervor.
iv) Daily rituals at the temple include various forms of ‘pujas’ (prayers) and ‘abhishekam’ (ritual bathing) of the deity.
v) The temple’s sacred ‘theerthams’ (holy water sources) are also believed to have curative properties.
UPSC Syllabus: Art and culture
Supreme Court on Bail
Source- This post on the Supreme Court on Bail has been create based on “Bail cannot be withheld as a form of punishment, says SC” published in “The Hindu” on 8 July 2024.
Why in the news?
Recently, the Supreme Court has held that the right to bail of an accused cannot be withheld as a punishment irrespective of the nature of the crime.
Fundamental Right to Bail
1. Right to Bail: The Supreme Court has declared that the right to bail cannot be withheld as a form of punishment, irrespective of the crime’s nature.
2. Refusal to grant bail is considered an unjust punishment, leading to the “prisonisation” of an accused, who remains innocent until proven guilty.
3. Speedy Trial and Article 21: The right to a speedy trial is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution, applicable regardless of the crime’s severity. The court emphasized that if the state, prosecution agencies, or courts lack the capability to ensure a speedy trial, they should not withhold bail based on the seriousness of the alleged crime.
4. The Supreme Court reiterated that bail should not be withheld as a punishment. The court underscored that the seriousness of the crime should not override the fundamental right to a speedy trial.
UPSC Syllabus: Polity and nation