9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 11th June, 2024

Print Friendly and PDF

Dear Friends,

9 PM Brief is our prime initiatives for the preparation of current affairs. What we are providing in this initiative:

  • Ensure that all relevant facts, data, and arguments from today’s newspaper are readily available to you.
  • We have widened the sources to provide you with content that is more than enough and adds value not just for GS but also for essay writing.

It is our endeavor to provide you with the best content, and your feedback is essential for the same. We will be anticipating your feedback and ensure the blog serves as an optimal medium of learning for all the aspirants.

For previous editions of 9 PM BriefClick Here

For individual articles of 9 PM BriefClick Here

Download Factly and 9 PM Weekly Compilations | Arranged Subject-wise and Topic-wise

Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 1

Real challenge with inequality in India

Source: The post real challenge with inequality in India has been created, based on the article “Balanced development: Spatial inequality must be addressed” published in “Business standard” on 11th June 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper1-society-poverty and developmental issues

Context: The article discusses how recent data shows a decline in inequality in India, as measured by the Gini coefficient. However, it argues that this data may not fully capture the inequality among the affluent. The real issue is spatial inequality between different states.

For detailed information on Status of Inequality in India read this article here

What is the current status of inequality in India?

  1. Decline in Gini Coefficient: The Gini coefficient, measuring inequality, has decreased in both rural and urban areas. Rural areas saw a drop from 0.283 in 2011-12 to 0.266 in 2022-23, and urban areas from 0.363 to 0.314.
  2. Spatial Inequality: Significant consumption disparity exists between states and between rural and urban areas. For instance, Chhattisgarh shows an 82% difference in MPCE between rural and urban areas.

For more information on Gini coefficient read this article here

What is the real challenge with inequality in India?

  1. The primary challenge with inequality in India is spatial disparity between regions and states.
  2. The gap in consumption between rural and urban areas is stark, with a nearly 71% difference in average monthly per capita consumption expenditure (MPCE) at the national level.
  3. Disparities between states are also significant. For example, rural Tamil Nadu’s MPCE is nearly double that of Jharkhand, and urban Telangana’s MPCE is over 70% higher than in Bihar.

What should be done?

  1. To address spatial inequality, the central government should provide increased fiscal support to poorer states. These states often lack sufficient revenue for development and require resources allocated through mechanisms like the Finance Commission or direct federal support.
  2. There is a need for strategic policy interventions in lagging states to attract investments and improve development outcomes. Investing in sectors like low-skill manufacturing could help by creating incentives for businesses to relocate to areas with cheaper labor, potentially uplifting poorer regions.
  3. A balanced growth strategy is crucial, as developed states already have resources and advantages that allow them to attract more investments, further increasing regional disparities.

Question for practice:

What is the primary challenge with inequality in India.

GS PAPER - 2

On Special Category Status for Andhra

Source: This article has been created based on the article “On Special Category Status for Andhra”, published in The Hindu on 11th June 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 – Governance – Fiscal Federalism

News: The demand for Special Category Status (SCS) for Andhra Pradesh has resurfaced in the political discourse, especially after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This issue has reignited the debate whether the state qualifies for special category or not.

History and Background of Andhra Pradesh’s demand of SCS

The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, split the state into Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, came into effect on June 2, 2014.

In a 2014 Rajya Sabha debate, then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh assured SCS for Andhra Pradesh for five years, supported by BJP leader M. Venkaiah Naidu.

However, after the NDA took power in 2014, the promise of SCS was set aside, with claims that Andhra Pradesh did not meet the criteria and due to the dissolution of the Planning Commission.

Read moreSpecial Category Status – Explained Pointwise

What is the Criteria for Special Category Status?

The SCS was created in 1969, on the recommendation of 5th Finance commission, to support states with significant socio-economic disadvantages and geographical challenges. There are 5 factors that are considered for granting SCS:

1) Majority tribal population,

2) Low population density,

3) Hilly terrain and international borders,

4) Socio-economic and industrial backwardness, and

5) Inadequate state finances

Current SCS States: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, and Uttarakhand.

What are the arguments in favour of granting a SCS to AP?

First, Andhra Pradesh continues to face a revenue deficit and increasing debt. Development projects and the new capital at Amaravati are stalled.

Second, 15th Finance Commission chairman has stated in his book that 14th Finance Commission never stopped SCS status. It is only up to the central government to take a call on this matter.

What are the arguments against providing an SCS to AP?

Andhra Pradesh does not qualify for the SCS, as per norms.

Tax Devolution and Grants: The 14th Finance Commission increased tax devolution to 42% and introduced revenue deficit grants, which Andhra Pradesh received. The 14th Finance Commission equated SCS with the general category status, nullifying SCS for new states.

Special Package (SP): In place of SCS, the NDA government offered Andhra Pradesh an SP, which included full funding for the Polavaram irrigation project, tax concessions, and special assistance.

No Mention in reorganization Act: The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, which split the state into Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, came into effect on June 2, 2014. It did not mention SCS for Andhra Pradesh.

Successes and challenges in the India-U.S. relationship

Source: The post successes and challenges in the India-U.S. relationship has been created, based on the article “From warp speed to reset, the state of India-U.S. ties” published in “The Hindu” on 11th June 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 – International relations – bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

Context: The article discusses the ups and downs in the relationship between India and the U.S. over the past year since Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the U.S. It highlights the good progress in strategic areas but also points out disagreements and slow progress in some aspects, like multilateral cooperation and sensitive political issues.

For detailed information on Recent Development in India-US Relations read this article here

What has been successful in India-U.S. relations?

Strategic Trust and Agreements: Over the past decade, India and the U.S. have solidified their strategic trust, finalizing foundational agreements that enhance military cooperation and interoperability.

Military and Security Collaboration: The two countries have conducted numerous joint military exercises and coordinated maritime operations, demonstrating growing strategic alignment.

Reduction of Past Irritants: Historical issues such as concerns over Jammu and Kashmir and the relationship dynamics with Pakistan (de-hyphenation) have been effectively managed, smoothing bilateral relations.

Shared Global Perspectives: The collaboration extends to global platforms like the Quad, where both countries, along with Japan and Australia, address shared concerns about China’s aggressive stance in the Indo-Pacific region.

Expanding Dialogues: India and the U.S. have expanded their dialogues to cover a wide range of areas, including climate change, green energy, critical and emerging technologies, and outer space, fostering comprehensive strategic ties.

What challenges remain in the India-U.S. relationship?

Differences over Russia’s actions: The U.S. and India disagree on how to handle Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. While the U.S. emphasizes international law and humanitarian issues, India considers the impact on global south countries, like disruptions in food and energy supplies.

Delayed high-level meetings: Logistical issues and the U.S.’s internal politics, such as the cancellation of planned visits by key U.S. officials due to the Gaza crisis and other scheduling conflicts, have slowed down cooperation within the Quad and other strategic initiatives.

Tensions over diplomatic comments: Critical comments from the U.S. State Department about India’s state of democracy and religious freedom, along with U.S. Ambassador Eric Garcetti’s remarks on Manipur and human rights, led to a diplomatic spat. In response, India summoned a senior U.S. diplomat.

Alleged assassination plot: The discovery of an alleged plot involving Indian security officials targeting a U.S. citizen has added a layer of distrust and complicated the bilateral relationship.

Way forward

India and the U.S. should focus on resolving diplomatic tensions by addressing concerns over democracy and alleged plots. They must also prioritize high-level meetings and strategic cooperation, like the initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) review, to maintain momentum in their relationship, despite internal and external challenges.

Question for practice:

Discuss the key successes and challenges in the India-U.S. relationship.

GS PAPER - 3

Recommendations for development of Artificial general intelligence in India

Source: This article Recommendations for development of Artificial general intelligence in India has been created based on the article “Artificial general intelligence: It could reboot India’s prospects”, published in Live Mint on 11th June 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 – Science and Technology – S&T effects on everyday life

News: Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) is poised to revolutionize various sectors and potentially alter the global balance of power. This technology promises vast benefits but also poses significant risks.

Historically, technological advancements have been key to global dominance. The British Empire leveraged naval technology and the industrial revolution to establish its supremacy. Similarly, control over AGI could dictate future global power dynamics.

In 2017, Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted the transformative potential of AI, predicting that the leader in AI technology would rule the world.

In March 2024, the Indian Cabinet approved the ‘India AI Mission’ with a funding of over ₹10,000 crore across five years. This initiative aims to develop AI infrastructure accessible to startups, academia, and industry, positioning India as a significant player in the global AI race.

What is Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)?

AGI refers to an AI system that can match or surpass human cognitive abilities to understand, learn, and apply knowledge across a wide range of tasks. It can reason, learn from experience, and solve novel problems.

AGI, unlike current AI systems which are designed for specific tasks, will possess general intelligence comparable to human cognitive abilities.

AGI can itself extend its abilities to solve any problem, including those it has not been specifically programmed for.

Read More – Artificial General Intelligence

Applications of AGI

In healthcare, AGI could monitor health metrics in real-time, predict potential issues, and provide customized care.

In urban management, it could optimize energy use and minimize waste.

AGI could also address global challenges like climate change through advanced predictive modelling.

What are the risks and challenges of AGI?

The development of AGI carries risks, including misuse in surveillance, autonomous weaponry, and significant economic disruptions.

AGI could radically transform job markets and economic structures.

Human nature tends to under-prepare for rare but catastrophic risks, which are not immediate. This tendency is known as the availability heuristic. Policymakers must proactively safeguard against AGI’s potential threats.

What should India do to prepare for AGI Race?

Dedicated AI Department: India should establish a central authority for coordinating AI-related activities, akin to the urgency once applied to nuclear capabilities and space research. This department should set standards, guidelines, and drive AI policies aligned with national interests.

Data Democratization: To stimulate AI development, India should liberate and democratize access to vast datasets across public and private sectors. This approach will encourage robust AI models tailored to India’s unique demographic and socio-economic landscape.

Strategic AI Ecosystem: Focus on developing an AI ecosystem for defense, drone technology, and cybersecurity. Support the creation of companies in these fields, similar to the US government’s backing of Palantir and Israel’s support of Elbit Systems.

AI Skilling Initiative: Launch a comprehensive initiative to train 50 million people in AI usage skills, with a focus on data literacy, AI ethics, and applications in various sectors. Additionally, it should aim to train 1 million individuals in advanced AI development skills.

Educational Partnerships: Forge partnerships with universities and technical institutes to integrate AI-focused curricula, launch specialized degree programs, and promote continuing education. Collaborate with online platforms to provide scalable access to courses and industry for practical training.

Different view on India’s new carrier IAC-2

Source: The post different view on India’s new carrier IAC-2 has been created, based on the article “Why India needs a third aircraft carrier” published in “The Hindu” on 11th June 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate

Context: The article discusses the Indian Navy’s progress towards acquiring a third aircraft carrier. Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) will soon start constructing the Vikrant-class IAC-2. This new carrier aims to maintain naval capabilities and avoid losing shipbuilding expertise.

For detailed information on Significance of aircraft carrier read this article here

Why India needs new aircraft carrier?

  1. Strategic Deployment: Fulfill the Navy’s requirement for one carrier for each seaboard and one in reserve, supporting INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant.
  2. Avoid High Costs of Skill Revival: Learn from the costly revival of submarine-building expertise at Mazagaon Dock Shipbuilders after a 10-year gap (1995- 2025), which was necessary due to the unresolved corruption scandal with German submarines.
  3. Counter A2/AD Threats: Address the increasing anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) capabilities developed by China and Pakistan, which pose significant threats to carrier operations.
  4. Indigenisation of Shipbuilding: The IAC-2 will have more local content and upgrades compared to IAC-1 Vikrant, promoting self-reliance and strengthening India’s domestic shipbuilding industry.

What are the different views on India’s new aircraft carrier?

  1. High-Cost Concern: The new carrier’s estimated cost of around $5-6 billion is seen as a major financial burden.
  2. Operational Efficacy: The carrier’s operational effectiveness is questioned due to the advanced anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) capabilities of China and Pakistan.
  3. Alternative Strategies: The Navy is divided on whether to pursue a ‘sea denial’ strategy using submarines or a ‘sea control’ approach with carrier battle groups. Submarines are seen as cheaper and less vulnerable.
  4. Resource Allocation: Critics argue that resources should instead address shortages in critical areas like submarines, corvettes, mine-sweepers, destroyers, frigates, naval utility helicopters, UAVs, and other ordnance.
  5. Air Force Perspective: The Indian Air Force (IAF) believes land-based fighters like the Jaguar IM and Su-30MKI, equipped with advanced maritime strike capabilities, offer a more cost-effective and secure solution than carriers.

Question for practice:

Discuss the rationale behind India’s decision to build a new aircraft carrier, Indigenous Aircraft Carrier-2 (IAC-2).

ITLOS advisory on marine pollution

Source: The post ITLOS advisory on marine pollution has been created, based on the article “A push for more climate action” published in “The Hindu” on 11th June 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 – Environment – Climate Change

Context: The article discusses the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) advisory opinion. It includes outlining states’ obligations under UNCLOS to mitigate climate change, specifically by addressing marine pollution from greenhouse gas emissions. This opinion emphasizes the importance of taking necessary measures based on the best available science.

About COSIS:

  1. Small Island States on Climate Change and International Law (COSIS) was established on the eve of COP 26 to develop international law on climate change.
  2. COSIS membership is open to all members of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS).
  3. The mandate of the Commission shall be to promote and contribute to the definition, implementation, and progressive development of rules and principles of international law concerning climate change.

What is the significance of the ITLOS advisory?

1.New Finding

ITLOS accepted a request from the Commission of Small Island States on Climate Change and International Law (COSIS).

ITLOS confirmed that human-released carbon dioxide is a pollutant under UNCLOS.

This aligns with scientific findings that oceans absorb about a quarter of CO2 emissions, causing acidification and temperature rise.

  1. Legal Implication

ITLOS’s opinion emphasized countries’ obligations under Article 194(1) of UNCLOS to prevent marine pollution from greenhouse gases.

Measures should be based on the best available science and international agreements like the Paris Agreement.

For detailed information on United Nations convention of the sea (UNCLOS) read this article here

  1. Standard for State Obligation

ITLOS described the obligations as due diligence but with a high standard due to serious risks.

States must gradually reduce GHG emissions; immediate cessation is not required.

4.Collective Interest

The Opinion supports the principle that climate change is a collective interest, not just a bilateral issue. This approach adds a new chapter to international environmental law.

  1. Other

The opinion’s political significance is notable, despite lacking legal force.

The Netherlands Supreme Court’s Urgenda case shows the need for concrete emission reduction targets, like reducing emissions by 25% below 1990 levels by 2020.

The ITLOS advisory opinion gains more attention due to upcoming ICJ proceedings on states’ climate change obligations.

For detailed information on international courts and climate change read this article here

What are the limitations of the ITLOS opinion?

  1. Lack of Concrete Methodology: ITLOS did not provide a clear method to assess state actions, unlike the detailed targets set in the Urgenda judgment by the Netherlands Supreme Court.
  2. Equity Considerations: The opinion states measures depend on states’ capabilities and available means, emphasizing fairness but potentially limiting strict action.
  3. Advisory Nature: The opinion is advisory and not legally binding, limiting its direct influence on state actions but retaining political significance.

Question for practice:

Examine the significance and limitations of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) advisory opinion on states’ obligations under UNCLOS regarding marine pollution from greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in the context of addressing climate change.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

How heat impacts our lives

Source– This post on  How heat impacts our lives  is based on the article “What is heat? How does it animate engines and global warming?”  published in “The Hindu” on 11th June 2024.

Why in the News?

Increasing global warming compels us to reconsider how heat impacts our lives.

About Heat:

1. Definition of Heat:

i) Microscopic View: An object’s temperature is the average kinetic energy of its particles. Heat is the thermal energy exchanged between two bodies at different temperatures.

ii) Macroscopic View: Heat is treated as a form of energy characterized using thermodynamics and statistical mechanics.

2. Heat Transfer:

i) When two bodies at different temperatures come into contact, heat flows from the hotter body to the cooler one until thermal equilibrium is reached.

ii) A medium can absorb heat in one location and release it in another, which is the basis for technologies like thermal power plants and air conditioning.

3. Conversion of Heat to Mechanical Energy:

i) Internal Combustion Engines (ICEs): This convert heat to work using the Carnot cycle, which has four steps: isothermal expansion, isentropic expansion, isothermal compression, and isentropic compression.

ii) Thermal Power Plants: Its operation is based on the Rankine cycle, involving four steps: isentropic compression, heat addition, isentropic expansion, and heat removal.

Note: Carnot Cycle describes the maximum efficiency of heat engines and Rankine Cycle is ideal form for thermal power plants.

About Applications of Heat:

1. In Industrial feild, heat is used in metallurgy, mining and refineries, chemical Reactions and semiconductor electronics.

2. It is used for centralized heating for homes and offices.

3. It is used in internal Combustion Engines (ICEs) and steam engines.

4. It is also used in transportation in the form of internal combustion engines in vehicles and aircraft and also thermal management in electric vehicles.

Heat role in climate change

i) Heat plays a central role in climate change through both mitigation and adaptation strategies.

ii) Effective management of heat production and adaptation to heat waves are essential to combat the adverse effects of climate change.

iii) The greenhouse effect is a key mechanism by which heat is implicated in global warming.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology

India Opportunity at IPEF Clean Economy Investor Forum

Source– This post on India Opportunity at IPEF Clean Economy Investor Forum is based on the article “The India Opportunity Showcased at the IPEF Clean Economy Investor Forum” published in “PIB” on 11th April 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently, an event was organised by Department of Commerce and Invest India to showcase various investment opportunities in India

About India Opportunity at IPEF Clean Economy Investor Forum

1. Organised by: The Department of Commerce and Invest India organised a meeting to showcase various investment opportunities in India. It was held at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore on June 7, 2024.

2.  Participants: Over 60 global investors and financial institutions, and more than 15 Indian firms.

3. Highlights of the event: At the event, it has been highlighted that :

i) India’s growth rate is nearly double that of other emerging market economies.

ii) Indian startups are returning home for capital access and tax benefits.

iii) AI and data centers are key to future growth.

iv) reforms aimed at streamlining regulations, enhancing transparency, and improving Ease of Doing Business.

vi) focus of government on sustainable infrastructure, climate technology, and renewable energy projects to meet Net Zero targets.

About Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF)

1. About: The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) is an economic initiative launched by U.S.A President Joe Biden in 2022.

2. Objective: It provides a platform for countries in the region to collaborate on advancing resilient, sustainable, and inclusive economic growth, and aims to contribute to cooperation, stability and prosperity in the region.

3. Members: It has 14 partners – Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, USA and Vietnam.

4. Nodal agency: Department of Commerce for the IPEF engagements

5. Pillars of cooperation: The IPEF comprises four pillars of cooperation namely: Trade, Supply Chain, Clean Economy and Fair Economy.

Read more: IPEF agreementIPEF’s Clean Economy Investor Forum

UPSC Syllabus: International relations

AIM – ICDK Water Challenge 4.0 and Innovations For You – SDG Entrepreneurs of India

Source-This post on AIM – ICDK Water Challenge 4.0 and Innovations For You – SDG Entrepreneurs of India has been created based on the article “Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog unveils AIM – ICDK Water Challenge 4.0 and Innovations For You – SDG Entrepreneurs of India” published in “PIB” on 11 June 2024.

Why in News?

Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog (AIM) recently launched of two initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and sustainability in India. They are ‘AIM – ICDK Water Challenge 4.0’ and the fifth edition of ‘Innovations for You’ handbook, spotlighting SDG entrepreneurs of India.

About AIM – ICDK Water Challenge 4.0

Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog
Source: observenow

1. The AIM (Atal Innovation Mission) has introduced the fourth edition of the Water Challenge in partnership with the Innovation Centre Denmark (ICDK) at the Royal Danish Embassy in India.

2. This challenge aims to find creative solutions for important water problems. It’s part of a special partnership between India and Denmark focused on green and sustainable strategies.

3. Teams that are selected will join the Indian cohort and participate in a global program called the Next Generation Digital Action. They will work with young talents from top universities and innovation centers in nine countries: India, Denmark, Ghana, Kenya, Korea, Tanzania, South Africa, Colombia, and Mexico.

4. The challenge is open to students and young entrepreneurs under the age of 35. It’s especially encouraging early-stage startups, researchers, and young innovators who are committed to environmental sustainability to apply.

5. There are two tracks in this challenge:

i) The Student Track focuses on using digital technology to create a positive impact on society.

ii) The Young Entrepreneurs Track offers Indian tech startups an opportunity to develop their ideas faster and form international partnerships.

About Innovations For You – SDG Entrepreneurs of India

1. AIM has also released the fifth edition of ‘Innovations For You’. It is a coffee table book series that highlights the work of entrepreneurs in India who are contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

2. This edition features 60 entrepreneurs from different parts of India.

3. Each one is working on sustainable innovations that help society, such as creating products from recyclable materials, promoting green energy, providing inclusive education, and supporting underrepresented communities and local artisans.

UPSC Syllabus: Schemes and Programmes

Powers of Lok Sabha Speaker

Source-This post on Powers of Lok Sabha Speaker has been created based on the article “What are the powers of the Speaker, why is the post crucial for BJP, its allies” published in “Indian Express” on 11 June 2024.

Why in News?

As the 18th Lok Sabha prepares to convene, the TDP and JD(U) are reportedly vying for the position of Speaker.

About Speaker’s Constitutional Mandate

1. Under the Article 93 of the Constitution of India, the Constitution mandates the election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker “as soon as may be” after the House convenes.

2. Election Process: The Speaker and Deputy Speaker are elected by a simple majority of the House members. There are no specific qualifications required to become the Speaker.

3. Under Article 94 of the Constitution of India, the Speaker is chosen from among the members of the House and vacates the office upon ceasing to be a member of the House.

4. Speaker’s Salary: The salaries of the Speaker are drawn from the Consolidated Fund of India.

Role of the Speaker in Parliamentary Democracy

The Speaker of the Lok Sabha holds the highest authority in the lower house of the Parliament of India, playing several crucial roles:

1. Presiding over Proceedings: The Speaker is responsible for chairing the sessions of the Lok Sabha and ensuring that debates and discussions are conducted in an orderly and respectful manner. The Speaker has the authority to rule on points of order and to enforce the rules of the parliament.

2. Acting as a Spokesperson: The Speaker often represents the Lok Sabha and speaks on its behalf in public or at international events.

3. Maintaining Impartiality: The Speaker is expected to be neutral and unbiased in discharging duties, ensuring that all members of the Lok Sabha are treated fairly and equally.

4. Ensuring Transparency and Accountability: The Speaker is responsible for making sure that the proceedings of the Lok Sabha are open and transparent, and that the public has access to information about the work of the Lok Sabha.

5. Involvement in the Legislative Process: The Speaker has several duties related to the passage of legislation. These include assigning bills to committees, deciding the order in which bills are considered, and certifying the final text of bills before they are presented to the President for assent.

6. Representation: The Speaker represents the Lok Sabha in its relations with other parliamentary bodies and institutions.

Powers of the Lok Sabha Speaker

The Speaker of the Lok Sabha performs several key functions as outlined in the Indian Constitution:

1. Presiding over Sittings (Article 95): The Speaker presides over the sittings of the Lok Sabha and is responsible for maintaining order and decorum in the house.

2. Participation in Proceedings (Article 96): The Speaker has the right to take part in the proceedings of the house and to speak in any sitting of the house or any committee of which he or she is a member. However, the Speaker does not have the right to vote in the first instance.

3. Certification of Bills (Article 97): The Speaker is responsible for the certification of money bills and financial bills, and has the power to direct that any other bill be treated as a money bill or a financial bill.

4. Casting Vote (Article 100): In the event of a tie in the voting in the house, the Speaker has the casting vote.

5. Committee Appointments: The Speaker appoints committees and chairpersons of committees, and refers matters to committees for consideration.

UPSC Syllabus: Polity and nation

Przewalski horses 

Source-This post on Przewalski horses has been created based on the article “Wild horse species is returned to the Kazakh steppes” published in “The Hindu” on 11 June 2024.

Why in News?

Przewalski horses were reintroduced to their native habitat in Kazakhstan.

About Przewalski horses

Przewalski's horse
Source: Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute
Aspects Description
About 1. Przewalski horses were found in Mongolia. They are the last truly wild horse.
2. Once thought to be the ancestor to the domestic horse, they are actually distant cousins.
3. Mitochondrial DNA suggests that they diverged from a common ancestor 500,000 years ago.
Physical Description i) They are small, stocky, heavily built with a large head, thick neck, and short legs.
ii) They have dun-colored with a dark zebra-like erect mane, no forelock, and a dark stripe along the backbone to a dark, plumed tail.
iii) There are markings in their body which are of yellowish-white belly, dark lower legs, and zebra-like stripes behind the knees.
iv) Horses can withstand harsh winters with temperatures dropping below minus 30 degrees Celsius.
Native Habitat i) They were originally found across Europe and Asia. Now they are found at reintroduction sites in Mongolia, China, and Kazakhstan.
ii) There are now 2,000 Przewalski horses around the world, mainly in China and Mongolia but, they are also found in France, Russia and living wild in the Chernobyl exclusion zone between Belarus and Ukraine.
Diet Grass and leaves from shrubby trees
Social Structure Typically consist of several mares, a dominant stallion, and their offspring.
Younger stallions form bachelor herds and must defeat the dominant stallion to breed. Offspring are chased out upon reaching breeding age.
Distinction Wild Status: It is the only true wild horses left. Other “wild” horses are actually feral domestic horses.
Conservation status IUCN: Endangered

UPSC Syllabus: Environment

Blog
Academy
Community