9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 8^th October, 2024

Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 1

Classification of languages problematic in modern India

Source: The post classification of languages problematic in modern India has been created, based on the article “New additions to classical languages list: Yet another divide-and-rule strategy” published in “Indian Express” on 8th October is 2024

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

Context: The article discusses how British colonial policies divided Indian society, leading to modern divisions based on language, religion, and caste. It critiques the recent decision by the Union Cabinet to classify Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali as “classical” languages, arguing this fosters inequality and neglects many languages, undermining the value of all linguistic identities.

For detailed information on Classical Language Status Granted to Five New Languages read this article here

What is meant by “classical language”?

1. Languages like Chinese, Sanskrit, Arabic, Greek, and Latin are universally accepted as classical due to their ancient literary and philosophical contributions.
2. Classical languages often provide root words or affixes to modern languages; for example, Latin “intelligentia” in “artificial intelligence.”
3. The term “classical” became common in the 16th century, particularly in Europe, to distinguish refined languages from so-called “barbaric” or vernacular ones.
4. The Union Cabinet extended the “classical language” tag to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali. Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Odia already enjoy this status.
5. In India, there are over 1,000 “mother tongues,” around 121 “languages,” 22 “scheduled languages” in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution, and 11 “classical languages.”
6. Pali and Prakrit(s) are considered classical but are not part of the 8th Schedule, unlike some scheduled languages.

Why is the classification of languages problematic in modern India?

1. Promotes Division: The classification of languages as “classical” creates divisions, similar to the British “divide and rule” policy.
2. The focus on a few “classical” languages risks neglecting over a thousand other mother tongues, as evidenced by the Census data from 2011, where many languages were not recognized officially. India’s language pyramid has 1,369 accepted “mother tongues” (2011 Census), with only 121 considered “languages.”
3. Such classifications, while bolstering majoritarian pride, neglect thousands of mother tongues and undermine linguistic diversity, leading to the extinction of many languages.

Way forward

Every language has its unique worldview and deserves equal respect and preservation efforts from both speakers and the state to maintain cultural diversity and linguistic heritage.

Question for practice:

Examine how the classification of languages as “classical” in India promotes division and neglects the preservation of linguistic diversity.

GS PAPER - 2

Restricting children’s smartphone and social media use

Source: The post restricting children’s smartphone and social media use has been created, based on the article “The digital genie is out of the bottle. How can we protect kids online?” published in “Indian Express” on 8th October is 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 global debate on restricting children’s smartphone and social media use. It explores the challenges, including children’s vulnerability to digital dangers and the need for balanced solutions involving parents, schools, and governments to ensure safe online experiences.

For detailed information on Debates on whether children should be banned from social media read this article here

Why Are Restrictions on Smartphone and Social Media Use for Children Important?

Children are more vulnerable to the dangers of the digital world because of their developing minds. They often lack emotional and mental tools to safely navigate technology. Smartphone and social media use can expose children to potential risks, including mental health problems and loneliness.

What Efforts Are Being Made to Limit Children’s Access to Smartphones and Social Media?

1. In the UK, a parent-led movement called Smartphone Free Childhood aims to keep smartphones away from children until the age of 14.
2. In Australia, the government is considering a law to ban social media use for children below a certain age.
3. In response to public pressure, Meta (Facebook’s parent company) introduced teen accounts on Instagram, giving parents more control over their children’s online activities.

For detailed information on Smartphone Ban in Schools read this article here

Are Restrictions on Technology Viable in Today’s World?

1. Some argue that restricting technology access might violate children’s rights to information and privacy.
2. Others point out that technology access offers opportunities and cutting off children from it could disadvantage vulnerable groups, like girls and children from marginalized communities, especially in countries with a digital divide like India.

How Can We Balance Benefits and Risks?

1. Simply banning smartphones and social media may not be enough, as children, influenced by FOMO (fear of missing out), often find ways to access technology.
2. A more balanced approach involves parents, schools, and governments working together to create safer digital spaces for children.
3. This collective effort aims to protect children while allowing them to benefit from technology.

Question for practice:

Discuss the challenges and efforts involved in balancing the benefits and risks of children’s smartphone and social media use, as mentioned in the article.

The Supreme Court declares caste-based labor divisions in prisons unconstitutional

Source: The post the Supreme Court declares caste-based labor divisions in prisons unconstitutional has been created, based on the article “On ‘casteist’ provisions in prison manuals” published in “The Hindu” on 8th October is 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- Governance- Prison Reforms

Context: The article discusses the Supreme Court’s decision to declare caste-based labor divisions in prisons unconstitutional. It highlights discriminatory prison rules and urges reforms to abolish such practices that violate prisoners’ fundamental rights, ensuring equality and dignity for all.

For detailed information on Supreme Court’s Ruling on Caste Bias and Prison Segregation read this article here

What Was the Issue Addressed by the Supreme Court?

1. The Supreme Court addressed the issue of caste-based divisions of labor in Indian prisons, declaring such practices unconstitutional.
2. The case was initiated by a Public Interest Litigation filed by journalist Sukanya Shantha, highlighting discriminatory rules in prison manuals from states like Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.

For detailed information on Caste System in Indian Prisons: Unconstitutional But Legal read this article here

Why Supreme Court’s declare caste-based labor divisions in prisons unconstitutional?

1. The Supreme Court declared caste-based labor divisions in prisons unconstitutional as they violate prisoners’ fundamental rights under Articles 14, 15(1), and 17 of the Constitution.
2. The case was based on a PIL highlighting discriminatory prison manuals in states like Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
3. In Tamil Nadu’s Palayamkottai Central Jail, Thevars, Nadars, and Pallars were segregated, reflecting caste-based segregation.
4. Rajasthan’s Prison Rules, 1951, assigned latrine duties to the “Mehtar” caste, while higher-caste prisoners were given cooking tasks.
5. The court noted that these practices reinforced colonial-era stereotypes and perpetuated untouchability, violating Article 17.
6. Caste distinctions in labor assignments deprived marginalized prisoners of dignity and equality, which the court ruled as direct discrimination.

What Directions Were Issued by the Court?

1. The court directed all states and Union Territories to amend their prison manuals within three months to remove discriminatory practices.
2. It also highlighted flaws in the Union government’s Model Prison Manual of 2016 and the Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act, 2023.
3. Reforms were ordered to redefine the term “habitual offender” and ensure equality in prison work assignments.
4. Regular inspections will be carried out to ensure compliance.

How do prison manuals reinforce colonial stereotypes?

1. The Criminal Tribes Act of 1871 allowed the British to label certain communities as “criminal tribes.” Even after the Act’s repeal, prison manuals continued to classify some groups as “habitual offenders,” even without convictions.
2. In West Bengal, Rule 404 of the Jail Code discriminated against people from “wandering tribes,” considering them prone to escape.
3. Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala used similar definitions, perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

Question for practice:

Examine how prison manuals in various Indian states reinforce colonial stereotypes and discriminatory practices against certain communities.

GS PAPER - 3

Importance of high-performance buildings (HPBs)

Source: The post importance of high-performance buildings (HPBs) has been created, based on the article “How high-performance buildings are the next step towards a sustainable future” published in “The Hindu” on 8th October is 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- Infrastructures

Context: The article discusses the importance of high-performance buildings (HPBs) in reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. HPBs use advanced technologies and sustainable design to improve efficiency and occupant comfort. They offer environmental benefits and help cities adapt to rapid urbanization and climate challenges.

Why are buildings important for sustainability?

1. Buildings contribute significantly to global emissions, especially in fast-growing cities.
2. Globally, buildings account for nearly 40% of total energy consumption during their lifespan. They contribute about 28% of energy-related carbon emissions.
3. In India, buildings account for more than 30% of national energy use and 20% of carbon emissions, according to the Bureau of Energy Efficiency.
4. As urbanization increases, the demand for new buildings also rises, leading to higher emissions.

What are high-performance buildings (HPBs)?

1. High-performance buildings (HPBs) build upon the concept of green buildings, which focus on reducing environmental impact through energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable materials.
2. Green buildings are a foundational step, often certified through programs that assess design and sustainability outcomes.
3. HPBs take these ideas further by achieving peak efficiency in energy, water use, and occupant comfort, using advanced technologies like energy-efficient HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems, smart lighting controls, and real-time monitoring through building management systems (BMS).
4. Examples of HPBs include Unnati in Greater Noida, which uses a solar-optimized façade, and Indira Paryavaran Bhawan in New Delhi, with its advanced HVAC system.

What is the difference between HPBs and green buildings?

1. Scope and Focus: Green buildings focus on basic sustainability goals like energy efficiency, water conservation, and materials sourcing, while HPBs aim for peak efficiency in all areas, including energy, water, and occupant comfort.
2. Technology and Monitoring: HPBs use advanced technologies such as energy-efficient HVAC systems, smart lighting, and real-time performance tracking through building management systems (BMS), as seen in Infosys’ Bengaluru campus. Green buildings are often assessed through certification programs that ensure sustainability goals are met.

For detailed information on Green Technologies read this article here

What are the benefits of HPBs?

1. HPBs provide both environmental and operational benefits.
2. They reduce energy demand, extend the lifespan of building systems, and lower maintenance costs.
3. HPBs also improve indoor air quality, natural lighting, and occupant comfort. Infosys campuses in Bengaluru and Hyderabad use building management systems (BMS) to monitor performance and make changes.
4. HPBs also increase property value and create intelligent ecosystems with automation and AI.

How can HPBs help India’s cities?

1. India’s urban population will reach 600 million by 2030, increasing building demand. Without action, the building sector’s carbon footprint will rise drastically. HPBs reduce energy use and emissions, addressing this urgent challenge.
2. HPBs offer resilience through energy-efficient and adaptive designs.
3. They improve air quality, enhance workplace environments, and reduce resource consumption.
4. Projects like TCS Banyan Park in Mumbai show how HPBs create better spaces with features like green areas and natural lighting.
5. HPBs help cities meet climate goals and manage the challenges of rapid urbanization.

Question for practice:

Discuss how high-performance buildings (HPBs) contribute to reducing energy consumption and addressing climate challenges in rapidly urbanizing cities.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

India’s Decline on the Academic Freedom Index

Source: This post on India’s Decline on the Academic Freedom Index has been created based on the article “India slipped on academic freedom index over the past decade: report” published in The Hindu on 8^th October 2024.

Why in news?

India’s Academic Freedom Index rankings have significantly declined over the past decade.

About Academic Freedom Index (AFI)

About: The Academic Freedom Index (AFI) offers a distinct approach to understanding and evaluating academic freedom globally.

Released by: Global Public Policy Institute (GPPi) in collaboration with Scholars at Risk (SAR) and V-Dem Institute (Varieties of Democracy)

Indicators: It measures actual levels of academic freedom using five key indicators: the freedom to conduct research and teach; the freedom of academic exchange and dissemination; institutional autonomy; campus integrity; and the freedom of academic and cultural expression.

Score Range: From 0 (indicating complete repression) to 1 (indicating full academic freedom).
Scores are derived from expert surveys and institutional data.

Annual report: The annual report, published as part of the “Free to Think” series by Scholars at Risk.

India’s Performance:

1. India’s score dropped from 0.6 to 0.2 between 2013 and 2023, marking the lowest score since the mid-1940s.

2. Scholars at Risk is a network of 665 universities worldwide, which monitors global threats to academic freedom.

3. The report states that the BJP-led Union government has been exerting political control over universities, often pushing a Hindu nationalist agenda.

4. Policies restricting student protests have been implemented, particularly at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and South Asian University (SAU).

UPSC Syllabus: Index and reports

Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC)

Source: This post on Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC) has been created based on the article “Global Framework on Chemicals” published in UNEP on 8^th October 2024.

Why in news?

The Global Framework on Chemicals has recently launched its first call for projects targeting the safe and sustainable management of chemicals and waste. Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC)

About Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC):

1. About: The Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC) is an international initiative designed to address the safe management of chemicals and hazardous substances on a global scale.

2. Stakeholders: The Framework is a unique agreement involving diverse stakeholders such as government representatives, private sector entities, non-governmental and intergovernmental organizations, youth, and academia.

3. Adoption: It was adopted in September 2023 during the fifth International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5), the Framework provides a roadmap to address the environmental and health impacts of chemicals and waste.

4. Aim: The framework aims to mitigate the risks associated with chemicals throughout their lifecycle, from production to disposal, to protect human health and the environment.

5. Objective: The GFC outlines five strategic objectives and sets 28 targets to help countries and stakeholders manage chemicals throughout their entire lifecycle, including products and waste management.

6. Alignment: It aligns with global sustainability goals, particularly the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 12 on responsible consumption and production, and Goal 3 on good health and well-being.

Key components of the Global Framework for Chemicals (GFC)

1. Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM): It aims to achieve safe chemical management aligned with the 2030 Agenda. Focuses on minimizing adverse health and environmental impacts, fostering international cooperation, and building capacity.

2. Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs): It includes the Stockholm, Basel, and Rotterdam Conventions, which set international legal standards for regulating and phasing out hazardous chemicals and managing chemical waste.

3. Globally Harmonized System (GHS): It provides a unified approach to classifying chemicals and sharing hazard information, enhancing global consistency and transparency.

4. Capacity Building and Technical Assistance: It emphasizes support for developing countries through technical assistance, funding, and training to improve chemical safety frameworks.

5. Pollution Prevention and Control: It encourages best practices in industries for pollution control, promoting safer alternatives, green chemistry, and sustainable production.

6. Chemical Safety in Consumer Products: It focuses on regulating chemicals in consumer products to protect health, along with developing monitoring systems to track chemical exposure.

7. Research and Information Sharing: It supports data collection on chemical risks and promotes global information sharing to improve risk assessment and policy-making.

8. Private Sector and Stakeholder Engagement: It involves industries, NGOs, and academia to innovate in safer chemicals, advocate for stronger regulations, and raise awareness on chemical safety.

UPSC Syllabus: International organisation 

Fattah-2 Hypersonic Missile

Source: This post on Fattah-2 Hypersonic Missile has been created based on the article “Fattah-2: How Iran used hypersonic missile to pierce Israel’s air defence” published in India Today on 8^th October 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, Iran launched a significant missile offensive utilizing the Fattah-2 hypersonic medium-range ballistic missile for the first time in combat. Over 180 ballistic missiles, including the advanced Fattah-2 were fired at Israel.

About the Fattah missile

1. Developed by: It was developed by the Aerospace Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which is part of the Iranian Armed Forces.

2. Aim: It aims to strengthen Iran’s deterrence capabilities, enhance security, and foster sustainable peace within the region.

3.Launched on: It was officially announced in November 2022. It was launched in June 2023 after a series of successful tests. It was developed in coordination with the Ministry of Defence, alongside the Khorramshahr 4 ballistic missile.

Features of the missile

1. It features high speed, stealth design, and maneuverability within and beyond the Earth’s atmosphere. It can penetrate advanced missile defense systems, including the Iron Dome utilized by Israel.

2. Technological Advancement: It positions Iran as one of the few countries to possess hypersonic missile technology. Hypersonic missiles can travel over five times the speed of sound and are difficult to intercept due to unpredictable flight paths.

3. Design Features of the Fattah Missile: It is capable of reaching speeds between Mach 13 and Mach 15 (approximately 15,000 km/h). Its current range of 1,400 km, with potential upgrades extending up to 2,000 km.

4. Trajectory Control: It is equipped with a mobile nozzle that allows trajectory adjustments during flight. It can modify movement direction, enabling lateral, vertical, rotational, and integrated shifts within the upper atmosphere.

5. Stealth and Communication: The friction at high speeds creates superheated particles around the missile, complicating radar detection and radio communications.

6. Engine and Propulsion: It operates with a second-stage movable nozzle and solid fuel propellant for high-speed tactical performance. It get activated by a spherical propellant within a range of several hundred kilometers from the target.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology 

Nobel Prize in Medicine 2024

Source: This post on Nobel Prize in Medicine 2024 has been created based on the article “ Nobel Prize in Medicine 2024: Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun win for discovery of microRNA” published in Indian Express on 8^th October 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, Nobel Prize in Medicine 2024 awarded to Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun.

About the prize

1. The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for 2024 was awarded to Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun.

2. They were recognized for their groundbreaking discovery of microRNA and its role in regulating gene activity post-transcriptionally.

3. Importance of microRNA Discovery: MicroRNA is a small non-coding RNA molecule that plays a crucial role in gene regulation. This discovery provides a fundamental understanding of how gene activity is controlled within cells. The Nobel Assembly emphasized that this discovery is “fundamentally important for how organisms develop and function.”

4. Nobel Prize Announcements:  The Nobel Prize in Medicine traditionally marks the first announcement in a series of Nobel categories each year. Additional Nobel Prizes across various fields will be revealed in the coming days.

UPSC Syllabus: Miscellaneous

Ultra-Processed Foods and Diabetes in India

Source: This post on Ultra-Processed Foods and Diabetes in India has been created based on the article “Consumption of ultra-processed and fast foods leading cause of diabetes in India, reveals new study” published in The Hindu on 8^th October 2024.

Why in news?

Recent clinical trial published in International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition highlights the link between ultra-processed, AGE-rich foods and diabetes. The study also suggests that following a low-AGE diet can potentially mitigate diabetes risk in the Indian population, which has one of the highest diabetes rates globally.

Findings of the study

Insulin Sensitivity & Inflammation: Low-AGE diets improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation, essential for diabetes prevention. AGEs, formed when sugars react with fats or proteins at high temperatures, contribute to inflammation, a precursor to diabetes.

Chronic Disease Risk: Similar to Western studies, this new research links ultra-processed foods in India to higher diabetes risk due to AGEs, fats, sugars, and salts.

About AGEs

1. Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) are harmful compounds formed when proteins or fats react with sugars in the bloodstream through a process known as glycation.

2. This process occurs naturally in the body over time but can be accelerated by factors like high blood sugar levels, certain dietary habits, and oxidative stress.

3. AGEs are significant because they contribute to various age-related diseases and chronic health conditions, particularly those involving inflammation and oxidative damage.

4. Some of the health issues linked to AGEs include:

Diseases	Description
Diabetes	AGEs are highly prevalent in individuals with diabetes due to prolonged high blood sugar levels. They can contribute to complications like neuropathy, retinopathy, and nephropathy.
Cardiovascular Diseases	AGEs can stiffen blood vessels and lead to atherosclerosis, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Kidney Disease	The kidneys usually filter AGEs from the blood, but when they’re overworked (as in diabetic nephropathy), AGEs can accumulate, worsening kidney function.
Alzheimer’s Disease	AGEs are found in high levels in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and are believed to contribute to neurodegeneration.
Skin Aging	AGEs can affect skin elasticity and appearance, contributing to wrinkles and reduced skin resilience.

5. Sources of AGEs:

i) Foods cooked at high temperatures, such as grilled, fried, or roasted items, have higher levels of AGEs. Processed foods, meats, and foods high in sugar and fat are also rich in AGEs.

ii) Within the body, AGEs are formed through normal metabolic processes, but their levels can increase due to poor blood sugar control, oxidative stress, and inflammation.

6. Preventing and Reducing AGEs: Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help lower AGE intake. Cooking methods like steaming, boiling, and poaching can also reduce AGE formation.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology

Hereditary cancer

Source: This post on Hereditary cancer has been created based on the article “Genome editing is bringing clarity to the study of hereditary cancers” published in The Hindu on 8^th October 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, the International Agency for Research on Cancer estimates that one in five people worldwide has a lifetime risk of developing cancer, based on data covering 36 types of cancer across 185 countries.

About hereditary cancer

1. Definition: Hereditary cancers are those caused by inherited genetic mutations passed from parent to child. These mutations increase an individual’s predisposition to developing certain types of cancer.

Inheritance Pattern: Hereditary cancer syndromes are most often inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, meaning that an individual only needs one copy of the mutated gene from either parent to have an increased risk of cancer.

2. Prevalence: Around 10% of all cancer cases are believed to result from inherited mutations. The prevalence is higher for certain cancers, such as ovarian (20%) and breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancers (10%).

3. Genetic Syndromes: Over 50 genetic syndromes are known to predispose individuals to cancer. These syndromes are collections of specific symptoms caused by inherited genetic variants.

4. BRCA Genes: Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 are linked to a higher risk of breast and ovarian cancers. In men, BRCA mutations increase the risk of prostate and male breast cancer. They can also lead to other cancers like pancreatic, colorectal, and uterine cancers.

5. Founder Effects: Certain populations, like Ashkenazi Jews, have a higher prevalence of specific BRCA mutations due to genetic bottlenecks and founder effects, where small gene pools lead to a higher frequency of certain mutations.

6. Screening and Prevention: Genetic testing for BRCA and other relevant mutations helps identify individuals at higher risk. This allows for preventive strategies, such as increased surveillance, lifestyle changes, preventive surgeries, or targeted therapies.

7. Targeted Therapies: Therapies such as PARP inhibitors are specifically designed for cancers with BRCA mutations, as they disrupt DNA repair mechanisms that these cancers rely on. New therapies continue to emerge based on further genetic research.

8. Role of CRISPR Technology: CRISPR screens allow researchers to create specific mutations in genes like BRCA to study their effects on DNA repair and cancer progression. These tools also help identify resistance to therapies.

9. Saturation Genome Editing: This technique enables detailed analysis of genetic variants within specific genes, as seen in recent studies on the RAD51C gene. Such research expands the understanding of cancer risk and informs the development of new treatments.

10. Early Detection and Public Health: Population prevalence studies highlight hereditary cancer risks within specific communities. Regular genetic screening can aid in early detection, leading to timely intervention and more effective treatment.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology