9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 9th July, 2024

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Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 2

New rules for police officers under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)

Source: The post new rules for police officers under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) has been created, based on the article “What are new provisions for police officers?” published in “The Hindu” on 9th July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- Governance-Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

Context: The article explains new criminal laws effective from July 1. It details rules for FIR registration, mandatory videography during searches, provisions for arrest, timelines for investigations, and the responsibilities of police officers under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).

For detailed information on Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) read this article here

What are the new rules for police officers under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)?

  1. Zero FIR Registration: Police officers must register an FIR regardless of jurisdiction issues under Section 173 of the BNSS. This ensures that no complaint is turned away due to territorial concerns. If the incident occurred outside their jurisdiction, they are required to transfer the FIR to the appropriate station.
  2. Electronic Submission: FIRs can now be filed electronically through platforms like the CCTNS portal, police websites, or official email addresses. This must be signed by the complainant within three days to be officially recorded.
  3. Mandatory Videography: Sections 185, 176, and 105 of the BNSS mandate videography for searches, crime scenes, and seizures. This is to preserve evidence integrity and support transparent proceedings. Officers are equipped with electronic devices for this purpose, using apps like ‘eSakshya’ which tags and timestamps images and videos.
  4. Display of Arrest Information: Information about arrested individuals must be displayed at police stations as per Section 37. This includes names, addresses, and details of the alleged offences, enhancing transparency.
  5. Restrictions on Arrests: Under Section 35(7), elderly or infirm individuals cannot be arrested for offenses punishable by less than three years without permission from an officer of Deputy Superintendent rank or higher.
  6. Timelines and Reporting: The medical report in a rape case must be submitted within seven days. POCSO case investigations must finish in two months. Police must update the informant or victim about investigation progress within 90 days.
  7. Special Provisions for Electronic Evidence: There is a focus on maintaining a chain of custody for electronic evidence to prevent tampering, emphasizing the role of cyber experts in safeguarding digital data.
  8. Defining a Terrorist Act: A new rule under Section 113 defines ‘terrorist acts’ and assigns the duty to officers of SP rank or higher to decide on registering such cases, considering several factors like the severity of the threat and the level of investigation needed.

Question for practice:

Discuss the new rules for police officers under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), including provisions for FIR registration, videography, arrest restrictions, timelines for investigations, and handling of electronic evidence.

Controversy Around HPV Vaccination

Source: The post controversy around HPV vaccination has been created, based on the article “Indigenous HPV vaccine, the rhetoric and the reality” Published in “The Hindu” on 9th July 2024

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

Context: The article discusses the promotion, timing, and high cost of India’s HPV vaccine, Cervavac. It questions the need for universal vaccination against HPV, highlights delay in development due to patent issues, and criticizes the high price despite potential for lower costs.

For detailed information on Status of cervical cancer in India – free future read this article here

What is the HPV Vaccine?

  1. The HPV vaccine is designed to prevent cervical cancer by targeting the human papillomavirus (HPV).
  2. Only a few out of over 200 HPV strains are linked to cervical cancer, specifically causing precancerous lesions.
  3. Despite the vaccine’s aim, most individuals with HPV do not develop cancer; infection is common, but progression to cancer is rare.
  4. India’s Serum Institute developed Cervavac, an indigenous HPV vaccine, using recombinant DNA (rDNA) technology, similar to early vaccines like the Hepatitis-B vaccine. The vaccine targets pre-puberty girls, based on the assumption that preventing HPV transmission at a young age will reduce cancer rates later.

How Have Patents Affected Vaccine Development?

  1. Patents have shifted vaccine development from public to private sectors, changing the landscape of innovation.
  2. The U.S. Patent Act amendments in the 1980s allowed for the patenting of genetically modified organisms and life processes, facilitating private monopolization of vaccine development.
  3. The TRIPS agreement globalized U.S. patent laws, impacting vaccine production and distribution worldwide.
  4. This resulted in delayed availability of vaccines like India’s Cervavac, which had to wait for key HPV vaccine patents to expire before development could begin.
  5. Patented vaccines such as Gardasil and Cervarix were developed under these new conditions, setting precedents in vaccine commercialization.

What Impact Has This Had on India’s Vaccine Industry?

  1. India’s 1970 Patent Act fostered the growth of its domestic vaccine industry by allowing only process patents, not product patents.
  2. This enabled rapid development and production of generic drugs and vaccines, positioning India as a global pharmacy.
  3. The introduction of product patents under TRIPS slowed down the development of new vaccines like Cervavac, which took two decades after similar vaccines were available globally.
  4. Despite infrastructure capable of producing at scale, Cervavac’s market pricing remains high, raising concerns about the application of patent laws and their impact on affordability and accessibility in India’s vaccine market.

What is the Controversy Around HPV Vaccination in India?

  1. Association with Cancer: The link between HPV and cervical cancer is controversial. While certain strains of HPV are associated with precancerous lesions, most HPV carriers do not develop cervical cancer.
  2. Moral and Cultural Concerns: The push to vaccinate pre-puberty girls based on assumptions about their future sexual behavior is seen as problematic. This perspective is viewed as imposing Western values and may be considered a moral issue within the conservative fabric of Indian society.
  3. Gender Bias: The focus on vaccinating girls and not boys highlight a gender bias, overlooking the fact that men can also be carriers of HPV.
  4. Cost Issues: The high cost of the HPV vaccine poses a significant barrier. The government price is ₹500 for two doses, but for those not covered by government programs (recommends Cervavac for girls aged nine to 26), the retail price escalates to ₹2,000, making it unaffordable for many.

Question for practice:

Discuss the various challenges and controversies surrounding the implementation of the HPV vaccine Cervavac in India.

New Labelling Regulations for Packaged Food

Source-This post on New Labelling Regulations for Packaged Food has been created based on the article “Empowering consumers: The proposed food regulation will help them” published in “Business Standard” on 9 July 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-2- Government Policies and Interventions for Development in various sectors and Issues arising out of their Design and Implementation.

Context-This article discusses the recent amendment to food labelling regulations by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The amendment intends to improve consumer awareness and public health.

India’s urban growth is boosting consumption of packaged foods, especially among children. By 2030, India could have over 27 million obese children, making up 10% of the global total, as per UNICEF’s “World Obesity Atlas” (2022).

What are the recent amendments brought by FSSAI?

The FSSAI approved changes to the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020. Packaged foods will now show salt, total sugar, and saturated fat details in a bold and larger font. Previously, this information was in small fonts which could have been easily overlooked by consumers.

What is the significance of new regulation?

1) Empowerment-It will empower the consumers to make informed decisions.

2) Enhancing Public Health -The proposed changes to food regulations will enhance public health, combatting non-communicable diseases.

3) Export-based Employment-The portion of processed food in total agricultural exports almost doubled from 2014-15 to 2022-23, reaching around 26%. Adopting global food regulations will create more opportunities for growth and export-based employment.

What are the challenges in food safety regulation in India?

1) Simply showing nutritional information in big fonts isn’t enough if consumers don’t understand its importance or the health risks it signals.

2) Harmful substances in popular Indian spice brands and extra sugar in baby food were detected through testing done abroad by a foreign NGO.

A detailed article on Food Safety Regulations in India can be read here.

What should be the way forward?

1) Raising public awareness about recommended dietary allowances and their connection to saturated fat, sodium, and sugar is essential.

2) Public health departments at both the central and state levels should conduct awareness campaigns to educate the public.

3) There is a need to encourage better food choices that can alleviate strain on healthcare systems.

4) The food regulator must set clear standards and ensure all food companies follow them to keep consumers safe and maintain trust.

Question for practice

What is the importance of implementing new regulations? What obstacles does India face in ensuring food safety regulations? How should progress be made going forward?

GS PAPER - 3

India’s urgent need for good-quality jobs

Source: The post India’s urgent need for good-quality jobs has been created, based on the article “Welfarism is not the solution for India’s job problem, skill creation is” published in “Indian express” on 9th July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- Economy -employment

Context: The article discusses India’s urgent need for good-quality jobs. It highlights joblessness as a key issue, despite economic growth. The article suggests various policies, including vocational training, wage subsidies, technical assistance for enterprises, and basic income supplements for the poor.

For detailed information on Employment status in India read this article here

Why is joblessness a critical issue in India?

  1. Persistent Problem Across Decades: Joblessness has been a consistent issue in India, not adequately addressed by successive governments, indicating its deep-rooted nature in the economy.
  2. Election Concerns: Recent elections highlighted joblessness as a critical issue, affecting voter decisions and showing public dissatisfaction with existing job policies.
  3. Economic Growth Disparity: Despite economic growth, employment has not kept pace. National surveys over 50 years confirm that job creation lags behind economic expansion, highlighting the failure to convert economic gains into employment opportunities.
  4. Social Stability Risk: If unaddressed, the growing joblessness is potentially socially explosive, demanding immediate and focused policy intervention.

What are the issues with previous employment policies?

  1. Delayed Payments and Shortcomings: There are notable delays in wage payments. Additionally, despite the law stipulating 100 days of work per household, many receive much less, undermining the effectiveness of the scheme.
  2. Conditions of Manual Labor: The jobs provided are manual and performed in harsh conditions, such as under a scorching sun, making them less appealing and barely sustainable for workers.
  3. Unmet Legal Guarantees: Workers rarely receive unemployment benefits when a job is not provided within 15 days, a failure to comply with the legal provisions of the schemes.

How can sustainable jobs be created in India?

  1. Vocational Education and Training: Launch mass-scale vocational programs with business apprenticeships to improve employability, learning from models like Germany’s vocational system and the California community college system.
  2. Adjusting Subsidies: Evaluate existing capital subsidies that currently encourage labor-replacing, capital-intensive investments. Replace some of these subsidies with wage subsidies that encourage firms to create regular jobs.
  3. Support for Non-Farm Enterprises: Extend technical assistance and management training to non-farm household enterprises, drawing lessons from the software aid provided to ASHA workers in Uttar Pradesh.
  4. Addressing Demand Deficiency: Address income inequality to boost consumer demand by raising incomes of lower economic sections through a basic income supplement, enabling them to participate more in the economy and potentially seek better jobs.
  5. Tax Reforms: Fund these initiatives by reducing subsidies for the affluent and increasing taxation on the wealthy, including inheritance and wealth taxes.

Question for practice:

Discuss the reasons why joblessness remains a critical issue in India despite economic growth, and the proposed measures to create sustainable jobs.

India’s Stance on Expanding the WTO’s Agenda and Its Impacts

Source: The post India’s stance on expanding the WTO’s agenda and its impacts has been created, based on the article “Why India needs to reset its trade policy” published in “Indian express” on 9th July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- Economy

Context: The article discusses India’s resistance to expand the WTO’s agenda, highlighting the need to balance policy flexibility for traditional sectors with opportunities in new fields. It emphasizes India’s evolving economic strategies, regulatory reforms, and the importance of proactive engagement in WTO negotiations.

For detailed information on WTO Reforms and India read this article here

What Are India’s Export Goals?

  1. Increase Goods Exports: India aims to increase its goods exports to $1 trillion by 2030.
  2. E-commerce Market Growth: The e-commerce market in India is expected to surge to $350 billion by 2030. Currently, e-commerce routed exports are only 1% of total exports, amounting to $3.0-3.5 billion. This is projected to grow, taking advantage of global e-commerce exports predicted to reach $2 trillion by 2030.
  3. Improve Trade-to-GDP Ratio: India aims for a higher trade-to-GDP ratio, ideally between 30-35%, to support economic growth and meet export targets.

What is India’s Stance on Expanding the WTO’s Agenda?

Resistance to Expansion: India resists the expansion of the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) agenda in new domains such as e-commerce, trade, climate change, and investment facilitation.

Policy Flexibility: The main reason for this resistance is to preserve policy flexibility that supports India’s economic development strategies.

What are its impacts?

  1. Protection of Traditional Sectors: India’s stance helps safeguard vital sectors like agriculture and fisheries, ensuring policy flexibility for economic development.
  2. Limitation on New Opportunities: The resistance may hinder India’s ability to capitalize on emerging fields such as digital economy and high-tech manufacturing.
  3. Impact on Global Stature: India’s hesitancy in expanding the WTO’s agenda may affect its ability to influence global economic governance and integrate fully into changing international markets.

What Is India’s Domestic Policy Reforms?

  1. Promotion of Technology-Driven Growth: India’s reforms aim to foster a digital and high-tech economy, aligning with the Vikas Bharat vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
  2. Environmental Sustainability: The country is committed to a low-carbon transition, aiming for net-zero carbon emissions by 2070, while improving energy access and reducing greenhouse emissions.
  3. Regulatory Reforms in E-commerce: These reforms promote digitization, transparency, and operational efficiency, encompassing data protection, consumer rights, competition, and taxation to support the growth of e-commerce, projected to reach $350 billion by 2030.
  4. Enhancing Global Integration: Policies are designed to make India a favorable destination for foreign direct investment, which was the third highest globally in 2022.

Question for practice:

Examine how India’s resistance to expanding the WTO’s agenda impacts its traditional sectors and opportunities in emerging fields.

Fiscal Prudence and Economic Reforms

Source-This post on Fiscal Prudence and Economic Reforms has been created based on the article “Budget: Balance fiscal prudence with support for GDP expansion” published in “Live Mint” on 9 July 2024.

UPSC Syllabus- GS Paper-3– Indian Economy and issues relating to Planning, Mobilization of Resources, Growth, Development and Employment.

Context- The government aims to prioritize a productive workforce and enhance the competitiveness of Indian products and services in its third term. The Union Budget must strike a balance, creating fiscal room to support these goals while maintaining fiscal consolidation. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has aligned its recommendations with these priorities.

What are the issues faced by the central government?

1) Setting achievable disinvestment targets is challenging because outcomes depend on unpredictable market forces.

2) The Centre’s gross tax revenue has stabilized at approximately 11.5% of GDP over the past four years. However, as per the 15th Finance Commission, India’s overall tax collections are estimated to be about 4 percentage points lower than their potential.

What are the major recommendations given by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)?

1) Fiscal Consolidation-

A) Revive the practice of publishing medium-term deficit indicators in the Union Budget for better fiscal planning visibility.

B) Review and update the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, as recommended by the 15th Finance Commission.

C) Establish a robust fiscal framework to enhance India’s credit rating.

2) Increasing Healthcare and Education Spending Targets -There is a pressing need to raise government spending on healthcare to 3% of GDP and on education to 6% of GDP by 2030-31.

3) Boosting Capital Spending with RBI Dividend Allocation -It suggests allocating a portion of ₹2.1 trillion dividend from the Reserve Bank of India to boost capital spending by 25% from 2023-24 levels. This will sustain growth in public capital expenditure and stimulate private investment.

4) Disinvestment & Asset Monetization-

A) Adopt a demand-based approach to select public sector enterprises (PSEs) for divestment.

B) Enhance the government’s asset monetization program by aiding ministries and state governments in identifying assets and refining regulatory execution.

C) Establish a dedicated cell in Niti Aayog or the Ministry of Finance to oversee these efforts.

D) Utilize proceeds from disinvestment and asset monetization to either reduce debt or develop new assets.

5) Taxation Reforms-

A) CII proposes a three-rate GST structure with lower rates. Simplifying tax structures and improving the ease of doing business would boost tax buoyancy.

B) They advocate including petroleum products and electricity under GST to reduce business costs by enabling input tax credit on commonly used goods and services.

Read More-7 years of GST

6) Enhancing Competitiveness Through Customs and Tax Reforms-

A) It suggests announcing a phased plan to adjust duty rates, allowing domestic manufacturers time to adapt.

B) It recommends improving compliance procedures, dispute resolution, and grievance redressal.

Question for practice

What are the major recommendations given by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)? 

Monetization Opportunities for the Government

Source-This post on Monetization Opportunities for the Government has been created based on the article “The government’s stake-selling agenda: If not now, then when?” published in “LiveMint” on 9 July 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-3– Indian Economy and issues relating to Planning, Mobilization of Resources, Growth, Development and Employment.

Context– Stock markets have consistently hit new highs, pushing total equity wealth to record levels. Promoters have taken advantage of higher valuations, selling approximately $4 billion worth of stock in just the last two months.

The government aims to raise about $6 billion through divestment in 2024-25, marking a significant increase from previous years. This shift is part of a strategy to effectively boost economic resources through asset monetization.

What has been the impact of the recent surge on PSU stocks and banks?

1) Market capitalization of PSUs nearly doubled from $404 billion in 2022-23 to $804 billion currently.

2) PSUs have achieved record-high returns on equity, with profits expected to reach about 2% of GDP.

3) Most stocks of PSUs and PSBs have seen a strong increase.They have outperformed both private companies and the overall market.

What opportunity does it present for the government to monetize its stakes?

1) Strengthening Finances and Infrastructure -The rise in PSU stock prices provides a chance to sell government stakes and invest the proceeds in the economy. Monetizing these assets will strengthen government finances, support infrastructure projects, and create jobs.

2) Enhancing Market Liquidity and Public Shareholding -Reducing the government’s stake in PSBs below 75% not only aligns with SEBI’s regulations but also enhances market liquidity. Despite a surge in market capitalization, public shareholding in PSU stocks remains low. This situation presents an opportunity for state-held listed entities to meet SEBI’s minimum public shareholding norms.

What are the challenges in the disinvestment process?

Disinvestment faces challenges such as multiple stakeholders, lengthy regulatory processes, global economic uncertainties, political opposition, and concerns about selling off national assets.

A detailed article on Disinvestment in India can be read here.

What should be the way forward?

1) Offer-for-sale (OFS) mechanism -The government can sell stakes quickly using the offer-for-sale (OFS) mechanism. This allows for faster transactions through special stock exchange windows.

2) Block Deals-It could opt for block deals to sell significant stakes at once or sell smaller quantities in the secondary market. Over the past decade, approximately $37.5 billion has been raised from minority stake sales out of a total of around $50 billion from divestments.

3) Strategic Focus on Stake Sales and Governance– The government should prioritize stake sales over relying solely on PSU dividends. It should focus on governing, not managing non-strategic businesses.

Question for practice

What opportunity does it present for the government to monetize its stakes? What are the challenges in the disinvestment process? What should be the way forward?

Quantum Technology and Diamonds

Source-This post on Quantum Technology and Diamonds has been created based on the article “Hurdles in importing diamonds pose a quantum block to research ambition” published in “The Hindu” on 9 July 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-3- Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nano-technology, Bio-technology and issues relating to Intellectual Property Rights.

Context-The article discusses the impact of Customs Department regulations on diamond imports on India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM). This is a ₹6,000-crore initiative aimed at advancing quantum technologies. India plans to develop quantum computers with 50 to 1,000 qubits by the decade’s end

The Indian government also announced initiatives in the Union Budget 2023 to promote the research and development of lab-grown diamonds. This is aimed at supporting the production of diamonds with defects suitable for quantum computing and other applications.

What is quantum technology?

Quantum technology covers various research fields by harnessing the quantum properties of atoms. It aims to create revolutionary computers, sensors, and encryption systems that may outperform current technology significantly.

Read More- More innovation, a skilled workforce: The promise in India’s National Quantum Mission

What is the importance of diamonds in Quantum Research?

1) Leveraging Atomic Imperfections -In quantum research, diamonds are valued for their atomic imperfections rather than their usual gem qualities. Scientists concentrate on these imperfections, such as nitrogen-vacancy centers, which are sensitive to changes in magnetic fields. Electrons at these centers can act like qubits which is crucial for quantum computing.

2) Lab-Grown Diamonds- Researchers can use room-temperature lasers to manipulate these centers. Unlike diamonds found in jewelry stores, scientists prefer lab-grown diamonds customized with specific defects for their research purposes. ”

What are the challenges?

1) Customs Department regulations on diamond imports affect research progress.

2) India, despite its prowess in diamond cutting, lacks the capability to produce such diamonds with controlled defects needed for quantum applications.

3) Maintaining electrons in qubit-like states remains a significant challenge globally.

Question for practice

What is the importance of diamonds in Quantum Research?

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Centre to Revise Classical Language Status Criteria

Source- This post on the Centre to Revise Classical Language Status Criteria has been created based on the article “Centre set to tweak criteria for according classical language status” published in “The Hindu” on 9 July 2024.

Why in the news?

The Union government plans to revise the criteria for granting classical language status.

Current criteria for Declaring a Language as Classical

i) Antiquity: The language must have early texts or recorded history spanning 1500-2000 years.

ii) Literary Heritage: The language should have a body of ancient literature or texts considered valuable heritage by generations of speakers.

iii) Original Literary Tradition: The literary tradition should be original and not borrowed from another speech community.

iv) Distinctiveness: The classical language and its literature should be distinct from the modern form, and there may be a discontinuity between the classical language and its later forms or offshoots.

Languages with Classical Status: Tamil declared in 2004, Sanskrit declared in 2005, Kannada declared in 2008, Telugu declared in 2008, Malayalam declared in 2013 and Odia declared in 2014.

Benefits of Classical Language Status

i) Awards: Two major annual international awards for scholars of eminence in classical Indian languages.

ii) Centres of Excellence: Establishment of a Centre of Excellence for studies in Classical Languages.

iii) Academic Support: The University Grants Commission is requested to create a certain number of Professional Chairs for the Classical Languages, at least in the Central Universities.

UPSC Syllabus: Art and culture

Amendments to regulatory framework for broadcasting and cable services

Source- This post on the Amendments to regulatory framework for broadcasting and cable services has been created based on the article “TRAI notifies amendments to regulatory framework for broadcasting and cable services and releases” published in “PIB” on 9 July 2024.

Why in the news?

Recently, TRAI notified amendments to regulatory framework for broadcasting and cable services and releases.

Amendments Issued:

i) Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services (Eighth) (Addressable Systems) Tariff (Fourth Amendment) Order, 2024 (1 of 2024).

ii) Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection (Addressable Systems) (Sixth Amendment) Regulations, 2024 (4 of 2024).

iii) Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Standards of Quality of Service and Consumer Protection (Addressable Systems) (Fourth Amendment) Regulations, 2024 (3 of 2024).

iv) Objective: The primary objective of these amendments includes the following:

a) Facilitate growth of the broadcasting sector by reducing regulatory mandates and compliance requirements.

b) Provide flexibility to the service providers to adopt a market driven approach while safeguarding the interest of the consumers and small players through transparency, accountability and equitability.

c) Promoting ease of doing business by simplifying the regulatory provisions.

Key Changes

1. Tariff Order:

i) Removed NCF ceilings; charges to be market-driven and transparent.

ii) Increased bouquet discount limit to 45%.

iii) Pay channels on DTH must be free-to-air on all platforms.

iv) DPOs must declare platform service tariffs.

2. Interconnection Regulations: Removed HD and SD channel distinction for carriage fees and simplified, technology-neutral carriage fee regime.

3. QoS Regulations:

i) Service charges under forbearance; DPOs to publish charges.

ii) Relaxed compliance for small DPOs.

iii) Prepaid subscription duration to be in days.

iv) EPG must show DRP, MRP, and categorize platform services.

4. Financial Disincentives are introduced for regulatory contraventions.

5. Publication of Information: Service providers to publish and communicate all tariff and charge information.

UPSC Syllabus: Governance

Discovery of the World’s Oldest Cave Painting

Source- This post on the Discovery of the World’s Oldest Cave Painting has been created based on the article “World’s oldest cave painting was created at least 51,000 years ago” published in “The Hindu” on 9 July 2024.

Why in the news?

Recently, researchers have found the cave painting in Indonesia which is the world’s oldest known evidence of storytelling in art.

Discovery of the World’s Oldest Cave Painting

World's oldest cave painting
Source: TH

1. The world’s oldest-known cave painting has been discovered in the limestone cave of Leang Karampuang, located in the Maros-Pangkep region of Sulawesi, Indonesia.

2. This artwork depicts three human-like figures interacting with a wild pig. The painting features a pig measuring 92 cm by 38 cm, painted in a single shade of dark red pigment. There are other images of pigs present in the cave.

3. The painting was created at least 51,200 years ago.

4. Researchers determined this age using a new scientific approach that involves using a laser to date calcium carbonate crystals that formed naturally on top of the painting.

5. The researchers interpret this artwork as a narrative scene, making it the oldest-known evidence of storytelling in art.

7. Significance:

i) These paintings provide the oldest evidence of storytelling, a fundamental aspect of human culture and identity.

ii) The depiction of a pig species that still inhabits Sulawesi links past and present wildlife on the island, highlighting the continuity of the natural environment over tens of thousands of years.

UPSC Syllabus: History

Anand Marriage Act

Source- This post on the Anand Marriage Act has been created based on the article “National Commission of Minorities Holds Meeting with States/UTs to Discuss Implementation of Anand Marriage Act” published in “PIB” on 9 July 2024.

Why in the news?

Recently, the National Commission for Minorities conducted a video conference meeting, chaired by the Chairman of the Commission, with representatives from 18 States and Union Territories. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the implementation and registration of Sikh marriages under the Anand Marriage Act.

About Anand Marriage Act

1. The Anand Marriage Act was passed in 1909. It is a legal act in India specifically designed for the Sikh community.

2. This act was enacted to provide separate legal recognition for Sikh marriages, distinguishing them from Hindu marriages. Prior to this act, Sikh marriages were registered under the Hindu Marriage Act.

3. The Sikh community sought distinct recognition of their marriage rituals, particularly the Anand Karaj ceremony.

Key Features of the Anand Marriage Act

1.Legal Recognition of Sikh Marriages: The act officially recognizes Sikh marriage ceremonies, known as Anand Karaj, as a valid form of marriage.

2. Sikh Identity: The act was a step towards recognizing and legitimizing the distinct religious and cultural identity of the Sikh community in India.

3. Registration of Marriages: While the original 1909 act did not specifically provide for the registration of marriages, amendments and legal provisions over the years have facilitated the registration process for Sikh marriages under this act. This enhances legal clarity and security for couples.

4. Cultural and Religious Significance: The act acknowledges the importance of the Anand Karaj ceremony, which is central to Sikh matrimonial rituals and reflects the community’s unique religious practices.

5. Significance and Evolution

i) The Anand Marriage Act was a landmark legislation for the Sikh community, affirming their distinct religious and cultural identity within the framework of Indian matrimonial laws.

ii) Over the years, there have been discussions and demands for amendments to the act, focusing on clearer legal provisions for issues such as divorce, alimony, and the registration process.

iii) These amendments aim to further align the act with contemporary legal standards while respecting Sikh traditions.

iv) Recent Implementation: In 2023, the Anand Marriage Act was implemented in Jammu & Kashmir, expanding its reach and ensuring that Sikh marriages in the region are recognized and registered under this act.

UPSC Syllabus: Polity and nation

Regenerative Braking 

Source- This post on the Regenerative Braking has been created based on the article “In an electric vehicle, what is regenerative braking?”  published in “The Hindu” on 9 July 2024.

Why in the news?

The regenerative braking device market is projected to experience significant growth between 2024 and 2031, driven by the increasing popularity of electric vehicles (e-vehicles).

About Regenerative Braking

Regenerative braking is a technology used in electric and hybrid vehicles to capture and reuse energy that would otherwise be lost during braking.

How Does Regenerative Braking Work?

1. Normal Braking: In traditional vehicles, braking converts the car’s kinetic energy into heat, which is then wasted.

2. Regenerative Braking:

i) In vehicles with regenerative braking, pressing the brake pedal causes the electric motor to run in reverse. This reverse action slows down the car similarly to traditional brakes.

ii) Instead of converting kinetic energy into heat, the motor converts it back into electrical energy. The electrical energy is then stored in the vehicle’s battery for later use.

3. Energy Conversion and Storage: The reversed motor converts the kinetic energy of the moving car into electrical energy. This electrical energy is sent back to the car’s battery and stored for future use, such as powering the vehicle or running electrical systems.

Significance of Regenerative Braking

i)  Energy Efficiency: Saves energy by reusing it, reducing the need for frequent battery recharges.

ii) Extended Range: Helps electric and hybrid vehicles travel further on a single charge.

iii) Reduced Wear and Tear: Reduces wear on traditional brake components, leading to lower maintenance costs.

Shortcomings of Regenerative Braking

i) Incomplete Stopping Power: Regenerative braking alone often cannot bring a vehicle to a complete stop and must be supplemented by conventional braking systems.

ii) Hill Descent: Regenerative brakes may not prevent vehicles from backsliding downhill.

iii) Efficiency at Low Speeds: The efficiency of energy recovery drops as the vehicle’s speed decreases, though regenerative brakes are beneficial in stop-start traffic.

UPSC Syllabus- Science and Technology

CAMCOPTER S-100

Source- This post on the CAMCOPTER S-100  has been created based on the article ” Camcopter S-100 will provide much-needed flexibility in sea-based ops to Indian Navy” published in “PIB” on 8 July 2024.

Why in the news?

India is harnessing the capability of a rotary unmanned aerial system by partnering with the Austrian company Schiebel for their renowned Camcopter S-100.

About CAMCOPTER S-100

CAMCOPTER S-100 VTOL UAV
Source: Unmanned Systems Technology
Aspects  Description
About The CAMCOPTER S-100 is an Austrian unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) using a rotorcraft design.
It is produced by the Austrian company Schiebel and was developed from 2003 to 2005.
Features 1. The S-100 has a maximum take-off weight of 200 kg. It is powered by a heavy fuel engine.
2.  It offers an endurance of 6 hours.
3. Speed and Altitude: The UAV has a maximum speed of 220 km/hr and can reach a ceiling of 5,500 meters.
4. Payload Capacity: The S-100 can carry multiple payloads, both surveillance and tactical in nature, with a maximum payload weight of 50 kg.
5. Operational Flexibility: The UAV requires no prepared area or supporting launch or recovery equipment and operates day and night under adverse weather conditions.
Navigation and Control Automatic Navigation: The S-100 navigates automatically via pre-programmed GPS waypoints or can be operated directly with a pilot control unit.
Mission Planning: Missions are planned and controlled via a simple point-and-click graphical user interface.
Real-Time Imagery: High-definition payload imagery is transmitted to the control station in real-time.
Fly-by-Wire Technology: Using “fly-by-wire” technology controlled by redundant flight computers, the UAV can complete its mission automatically in the most complex of electromagnetic environments.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology 

Vizhinjam International Port

Source- This post on the Vizhinjam International Port has been created based on the article “Adani Vizhinjam Port to receive first mothership on July 12” published in “Economic Times” on 9 July 2024.

Why in the news?

The Adani Group’s Vizhinjam Port is now ready to receive its first mothership.

About Vizhinjam International Port

Adani Vizhinjam port: Strategic boost to India's maritime credentials ...
Source: TH

1. Location: The port is located in Vizhinjam, a coastal town in the Thiruvananthapuram District of Kerala.

2. Developed by: It was developed under a landlord model with a Public Private Partnership component on a Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) basis.

3. It was primarily designed to cater to container transshipment, the port also handles multi-purpose and break-bulk cargo.

4. It will also be a global bunkering hub, supplying clean, green fuels like hydrogen and ammonia.

5. After completion, the port will be one of the world’s greenest ports in the world.

Strategic Advantage

i)  The port is a mere 10 nautical miles (NM) diversion from the international east-west shipping route connecting Europe, the Persian Gulf, and the Far East.

ii) It is also close to the national and regional road and rail network.

iii) The port will feature approximately 30 berths, most of which will be capable of handling Mother Vessels.

 Significance of the port

i) The port is the only transshipment hub in the Indian subcontinent, strategically located close to international shipping routes and centrally on the Indian coastline. Around 95% of India’s foreign trade is conducted via the sea route, accounting for 70% of the trade in value terms.

ii)  Nearly 30% of freight movement occurs through the international shipping route south of the Indian peninsula, passing just 10 NM off Vizhinjam.

UPSC Syllabus: Indian Economy

Pearl Spot Fish

Source- This post on the Pearl Spot Fish has been created based on the article “Kufos to launch genome editing mission to boost pearl spot production” published in “The Hindu” on 9 July 2024.

Why in the news?

The Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) is set to launch a genome editing mission to enhance pearl spot fish production.

About Pearl Spot Fish

Karimeen or pearl spot fish etroplus suratensis Kerala India Stock ...
Source: alamy

1. It is commonly known as “Karimeen” in Kerala. Pearl spot fish is indigenous to the east and southwest coasts of Peninsular India.

2. It is an important species for aquaculture, thriving in both brackish and freshwater ponds.

3. The fish has an elevated, laterally compressed body and a small cleft mouth, and in its natural habitat, it appears light green with eight vertical bands.

4. Pearl spot seed is available year-round along the east and southwest coasts of India, with peak abundance in May-July and November-February.

5. This fish variety is widely found in the South, especially in the Kerala backwaters, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.

6. Pearl spot is low-fat, high-protein food rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart and brain health.

7. It is also rich in Vitamin D, riboflavin, and minerals such as calcium and phosphorus.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment

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