PRATAP BHANU MEHTA WRITES: THE COLLAPSE OF PARLIAMENTARY DEMOCRACY IN BHARAT THAT IS NOT INDIA

THE CONTEXT: The  suspension of more than 140 MPs is being seen merely as a political contest between the government and the Opposition. However, it is rather the expression of a radical change in this regime which is collapse of parliamentary democracy.

ISSUES:

  • Unconstitutional concentration of power: The biggest challenge is the pseudo constitutional appearances of terminologies. The rules of procedure, legal redress, constitutional morality, institutions or even the terminology of parliamentary democracy is not appropriate. The recourse to this formal language of democracy serves increasingly to provide a unconstitutional concentration of power.
  • Parliament as dead institution: The weakening of Parliament leads to accretion of a disproportionate power in other institutions, disregard the system of checks and balances, and Parliament is effectively now seen as dead as an institution.
  • Misuse of press: The media which is a site of public opinion formation recklessly worships power, or even creates appropriate diversions for it.
  • Separation of power: The separation of powers has long been dead as an idea and in most parliamentary democracies, executive and legislative power has increasingly been fused. This has been a process long in the making and has roots in the nature of party government.
  • Not a representative institution: For Parliament without Opposition is simply the unbridled power of the executive. It is not a representative institution, but a Parliament that now rests entirely in the persona of the leader.
  • Personification of popular will: Democracy now is about the personification of popular will. This is the popular will institutionalised in a single person and enacted through the party. In this conception, the person wields power, without any seriously effective constitutional limitations. This leads to elected dictatorship and unprecedented concentration of power and monopolisation of all organs of the state.
  • Monopolisation of power: Monopolisation of power is altering the fundamental nature of our regime, it is nothing short of a constitutional coup d’etat. Civil liberties are weakened to give the government more powers of surveillance and control. The three criminal code bills that the Lok Sabha has just passed and the Telecommunications Bill are just the two most recent instances.

THE WAY FORWARD

  • Democratic Participation: Disruptions in Parliament are necessarily counter-productive. Thus, the government needs to be more democratic and allow the opposition to put their ideas in a free manner.
  • Ensure productivity of parliament: There is a need to monitor the productivity of the day-to-day working of both Houses of Parliament. The overall productivity of the session also can be studied and disseminated to the public on a weekly basis.
  • Ensure political accountability: There is a need to ensure political accountability. It can be done by allowing proper representation and right to seek answers and hold the government accountable to the parliament to ensure their responsiveness.

THE CONCLUSION:

There are diverse and often competing, even conflicting, views in political discourse. However, the plurality of views is the very essence of parliamentary democracy. The ability and willingness of the ruling party and the opposition to engage in a dialogue serve to demonstrate accountability in public governance.

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1 Explain the structure of the Parliamentary Committee system. How far have the financial committees helped in the institutionalisation of the Indian Parliament? (2023)

Q.2 Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices.(2023)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.1 “Mass suspensions of legislators not only undermines principles of representative democracy but also leads to executive captures of parliamentary democracy.” Comment.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/editorials/imfs-message-9078117/



BEHIND SUSPENSION OF 143 MPS, A POLITICAL IMMORALITY

THE CONTEXT: The recent suspension of a large number of Opposition Members of Parliament from the House in the Winter Session underlines the institutional weakening of our political system.

ISSUES:

  • Parliament has been converted into a zone of conflict, where the established norms of discussion and deliberation are being conveniently sidelined.
  • One one hand, ruling party invokes the House rules to supersede the parliamentary customs and conventions simply to get rid of the Opposition while the Opposition uses the act of disruption as a legitimate political technique.

FOUR IDENTIFIABLE FACETS OF THIS POLITICAL CRISIS:

1. Decline of Legislative discussion:

    • The idea of legislative discussion has lost its political significance. Parliamentary debates in recent years shows that MPs always adhere to party-line to make any comment, criticism or observation.
    • These remarks are often delivered in the form of a political speech, which usually does not determine the outcomes of actual legislative business. The parliamentary discussion therefore turns out to be a collection of unrelated speeches, disruptions and sloganeering.
    • The failure of parliamentarians to evolve a culture of mutual learning through healthy discussions and deliberations has weakened the democratic capability of Parliament as the supreme legislative body.

2. Professionalisation of politics:

    • Post-colonial Indian politics inherited values from the national movement and democratic politics was defined as a form of social service in the early decades after Independence.
    • However, recent electoral competition use factors as caste, religion and regional identity are recognised as powerful tools. Politics is now being seen rather differently as a profession to gain power and achieve upward mobility.
    • For example, the politicians who used to celebrate secularism as the ultimate moral value earlier do not hesitate to mock it as an outdated idea now.

3. Intellectual aspect:

    • This new form of competitive politics deteriorate intellectual aspect of political parties. There is an enthusiasm to embrace the dominant political narrative for electoral viability.
    • Opposition are no longer interested in posing any intellectual challenge in electoral politics.
    • The intellectual bankruptcy of the political class does not allow it to generate new political ideas and imaginations. As a result, the level of legislative discussions is compromised and disruptions become the acceptable norms of doing politics inside Parliament.

4. Decline of political morality

    • The Constitution expects legislators to evolve a political value-system so as to make themselves collectively accountable and responsible.
    • The manner in which the Rules to conduct legislative business have been invoked this time is deeply problematic.
    • Their imposition without any reference to larger democratic principles makes them politically inappropriate and logically unsustainable.

THE WAY FORWARD:

  • Strike a balance between disruption and important issues: There is a need to strike a balance between deliberate disruption and raising important issues.
  • Constructive role of opposition: Opposition members should play a constructive role in Parliament and they should be allowed to put forward their views and express themselves in a dignified manner.
  • Address broader challenges: There is a need to address the broader challenges in the functioning of the Indian Parliament, including issues related to representation, responsiveness, and the need for procedural reforms.

THE CONCLUSION:

The present situation is an outcome of a much deeper political crisis, which poses a serious challenge to our democratic values and egalitarian constitutional principles. There is a need to take into account the concerns of voters who believe in parliamentary system to protect and nurture democratic values.

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1 Explain the structure of the Parliamentary Committee system. How far have the financial committees helped in the institutionalisation of the Indian Parliament? (2023)

Q.2 Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices.(2023)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.1 The wholescale suspension of MPs in a single day highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining order and decorum during legislative sessions. Comment.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/behind-suspension-of-143-mps-a-political-immorality-9076656/



WSDP Bulletin (22/12/2023)

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1.   Lok Sabha passes bill to regulate appointment of chief election commissioner, top poll officials. Details here READ MORE

2.   RBI releases draft omnibus framework for SROs, seeks comment READ MORE

3.   WHO prequalifies a second malaria vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India READ MORE

4.   Indian Penal Code to Nyaya Sanhita: What’s new, what is out, what changes READ MORE

5.   How an AI tool can make weather forecasts more accurate and help tackle climate change READ MORE

6.   Iceland volcano eruption: What are volcanoes and why is the island so volcanically active? READ MORE

7.   Parliamentary panel recommends FAME-II scheme’s extension by at least 3 more years READ MORE

8.   Peninsular river basins in India more likely to face widespread flooding than transboundary rivers: Study READ MORE  

9.   India Skills Report finds Kerala the most preferred State to work READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Inequality, Labour and Social Democracy READ MORE

2. Tackle patriarchy READ MORE

3. Why Tamil Nadu has witnessed heavy rainfall in December 2023 READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Should an All-India Judicial Service be created? READ MORE

2. Whither parliamentary democracy? READ MORE

3. How not to frame education policy READ MORE

4. Questionable searches under the Money Laundering Act READ MORE

5. Revision sans vision: On the three Bills that replace the body of criminal laws in India READ MORE

6. Post Office Bill 2023 | State surveillance and privacy concerns explained READ MORE

7. Why the three laws were needed for new age crimes READ MORE

8. Dynamic governance for dynamic tech READ MORE

9. Explained: The Revised Criminal Law Bills READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Improving healthcare access to address the rise in non-communicable diseases among Indian women READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. Foreign policy on precarious perch despite claims READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Express View on rupee and Macroeconomic Stability: IMF’s message READ MORE

2. Agri capex, a black box READ MORE

3. Poor funding, crumbling infrastructure: Gaps persist in India’s food and nutrition schemes READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. The need for a Global Green Bank READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Staying alert: On the rapidly increasing spread of the JN.1 variant READ MORE

2. Virus alert: No cause to panic READ MORE

3. India’s Medical Devices Soar with Tech Innovation READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. Terrorists and miscreants are far more motivated than we think READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Turbulence in south: On the heavy rain in southern Tamil Nadu, weather forecasting and preparedness READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Overcome stress and worry with Krishna’s Gita READ MORE

2. Punish the inhuman teachers READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. Indian wagon to the US’s Indo-Pacific strategy is steadily eroding India’s strategic autonomy and alienating the Global South. Examine.

2. In light of the changing healthcare burden and with a rise in mortality due to non-communicable diseases, the PMJAY programme has the ability to alleviate constraints to healthcare access. Comment.

3. While the internet has proved to be a space for good use cases and empowerment, the proliferation of AI and its application is a watershed phenomenon that represents a huge challenge.

4. The government has overhauled its food and healthcare system but unless it fixes structural inadequacies, India’s hunger crisis will remain unaddressed. Examine.

5. Collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society is imperative to develop and implement robust AI policies that prioritize ethics, fairness, and inclusivity. Discuss how ethical dilemmas and data privacy concerns can be addressed and AI benefits reach all segments of society can be ensured?

6. AI’s transformative prowess offers a novel perspective, fundamentally redefining India’s vision for the future and India must embrace this technology judiciously, leveraging its power for the greater good while safeguarding the values and ethics that define the nation. Comment.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

  • No country, however rich, can afford the waste of its human resources.
  • In a democracy attracted by power rather than constitutional form, power will continually need to be projected.
  • While there could be statistical underestimation, the changes in Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana and adverse terms of trade may have worked as negative factors.
  • The three criminal bills to replace the colonial-era criminal laws seek to bring comprehensive changes to the criminal justice system.
  • In light of the changing healthcare burden for women, with a rise in mortality due to non-communicable diseases PMJAY programme plays to alleviate constraints to healthcare access.
  • The establishment of the PMJAY has coincided with an important inflection point for women’s health in India.
  • Women’s empowerment needs to be considered central to programme planning for tackling NCDs, with the programmes enhancing values of self-care so that women are encouraged to seek and demand that their health needs be prioritised within families and within health systems.
  • It is essential to recognize that the preservation of religious harmony and historical justice need not be mutually exclusive.
  • The Places of Worship Act, while a well-intentioned measure to prevent communal discord, needs careful reevaluation to address contemporary challenges and ensure its continued relevance in a dynamically evolving society.
  • India has moved closer to the US to counter China. But with increasing uncertainty in the West’s geopolitical calculus, the Indo-Pacific strategy has lost its fizz.
  • India’s geopolitical rivalry with China now becomes nonsensical. The US has come to realise that a prolonged confrontation with Russia in Eurasia has made the idea of a simultaneous US Cold War or a military showdown with China a farfetched proposition.
  • Indian wagon to the US’s Indo-Pacific strategy is steadily eroding the country’s strategic autonomy and alienating the Global South that is not in the least interested in taking sides in an esoteric India-China binary in international politics.
  • The Bharatiya Nyaya (Second) Sanhita (BNS2), which will replace the Indian Penal Code, gives wide-ranging powers to the police without a commensurate increase in accountability.
  • The recognition of the challenge of deepfakes and the proactive initiative by the government is heartening as India seeks to be ahead of the curve.
  • While the internet has proved to be a space for good use cases and empowerment, the proliferation of AI and its application is a watershed phenomenon that also represents a huge challenge.
  • Regulation of technology challenges conventional means of policy-making, given that private players have the real know-how and capacity for enforcement.
  • Each time society is faced with a new issue arising out of technology, the industry, civil society, and relevant stakeholders come together to discuss the need for new prescriptive measures to regulate such issues.
  • Developing future-ready legislations that can anticipate the evolution of technology and provide safeguards for new-age challenges is key.
  • Political accountability is necessary because, in a modern democracy, the fundamental political relationship that affects social, economic, and cultural development is that between the citizen and the State.
  • Parliamentary discourse is purely ideological, dealing only with political practice; and that liberal democracy is the only doctrine that the Constitution gives us.
  • The government has overhauled its food and healthcare system but unless it fixes structural inadequacies, India’s hunger crisis will remain unaddressed.

ESSAY TOPIC

  • The economy is an owned subsidiary of ecology.

50-WORD TALK

  • The mimicry row in Parliament is a sensational waste of time. The schoolyard nature of our Parliament is nearly complete, with suspended students and immature teasing. Mimicry is a poor form of humour, best avoided by MPs. But it’s also harmless and best handled with a smile, not pre-pubescent howling.

Things to Remember:

  • For prelims-related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
  • Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do map work (marking those areas in maps and exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers, etc. same applies to the national places.)
  • For economy-related news (banking, agriculture, etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related to various economic aspects, for example, if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing price rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates, etc.
  • For main exam-related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occur frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED.
  • Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment to your writing.


TOPIC- THE NEED FOR REFORMS IN THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL (UNSC)

THE CONTEXT: The call for reforming the UNSC has been active for many years which resurrected when the President of Türkiye opined that UNSC has ceased to be the guarantor of world security, while culminating into a political battleground of its five permanent members. Also, the UN’s Secretary-General asserted that addressing issues of present times requires UN institutions to adapt to the changing times. The following article aims to assess the need for reforms in UNSC so as to address the demands of the changing global order of the 21st century, from UPSC perspective.

THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is one of the principal organs of the United Nations (UN), established to maintain international peace and security. It plays a critical role in addressing global conflicts, crises, and threats to international peace.

  • Composition: The UNSC is composed of 15 member states, with five permanent members (P5) and ten non-permanent members. The P5, (United States, Russia, China, France & UK) also known as the “Great Powers,” have veto power, which allows them to block any substantive resolution, making their decisions particularly influential.
  • Membership Rotation: Non-permanent members are elected for two-year terms, with five seats opening up each year. This rotation ensures that different regions of the world are represented over time.

Criteria for Membership: To become a member of the UNSC, a country must meet the following criteria:

  • UN Membership: A nation must first be a member of the United Nations to be eligible for UNSC membership.
  • Election: Non-permanent members are elected by the UN General Assembly through a two-thirds majority vote. The geographical distribution of seats is a key consideration, ensuring fair representation across regions.
  • Rotation: Members serve two-year terms and can be re-elected, but there is a limit on consecutive terms. This rotation helps maintain diversity and a balance of interests.

Mandate and Functions: The UNSC’s mandate and functions are outlined in Chapter VI and Chapter VII of the UN Charter:

  • Maintenance of International Peace and Security: The primary mandate of the UNSC is to address threats to international peace and security. It does so through various means, including conflict resolution, peacekeeping, and the authorization of the use of force when necessary.
  • Conflict Resolution: The UNSC actively seeks to resolve international conflicts through diplomatic means, negotiation, and the promotion of peaceful settlements.
  • Peacekeeping: It authorizes and oversees UN peacekeeping missions, which involve the deployment of military and civilian personnel to regions experiencing conflict to help maintain or restore peace.
  • Imposition of Sanctions: The UNSC can impose economic and diplomatic sanctions against states that threaten international peace and security. These measures are intended to pressure nations into compliance with international norms.
  • Authorization of Use of Force: In cases of imminent threats to international peace, the UNSC can authorize the use of force, which may include military intervention, to restore or maintain peace. This is a controversial but necessary function to respond to some crises.
  • Supervision of Armistices and Agreements: The UNSC monitors and supervises armistices and agreements to ensure compliance by the parties involved.
  • Protection of Civilians and Humanitarian Action: The UNSC plays a role in protecting civilians in conflict zones and promoting humanitarian assistance.
  • Recommendations on General Principles of Cooperation: The UNSC can make recommendations on principles of cooperation and the peaceful settlement of international disputes.

RECENT CASES OF INVOKING VETO

1. Israel-Palestine issue (2023)

  • The United States vetoed a UN Security Council (UNSC) resolution that would have called for “humanitarian pauses” to deliver life-saving aid to millions in Gaza.
  • Brazil, as president of the Security Council for October, 2023, responded to a call by Council members to forge a united response to the crisis and forwarded the draft resolution on October 18, 2023.
  • While 12 of the Council’s 15 members voted in favour of the Brazilian-led text, the United States voted against, while Russia, and the United Kingdom abstained. As the US spokespersons, the resolution prepared by Brazil did not do enough to underscore Israel’s right to self-defense. The US has typically exercised its Security Council veto to shield Israel from critical resolutions.
  • A ‘no’ vote from any one of the five permanent members of the Council stops action on any measure put before it.
  • Following this, Russia has asked for the 193-member U.N. General Assembly to be convened for an emergency special session on the conflict. It could decide to put a draft resolution to a vote there, where no countries hold veto power. General Assembly resolutions are non-binding but carry political weight.

2. Ukraine crisis (2014-present): Russia’s annexation of Crimea and involvement in the conflict in Eastern Ukraine has resulted in multiple UNSC resolutions being vetoed or blocked by Russia. This has hindered international efforts to resolve the crisis and maintain Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Regarding its 2022 Ukraine invasion, Russia again used its veto powers to block a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution condemning its invasion of Ukraine and demanding an immediate withdrawal of its troops.

3. Rohingya Crisis (2017-present): China, a permanent member, has used its veto power to block resolutions aimed at addressing the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar. This has prevented the UNSC from taking effective action to hold the Myanmar government accountable for human rights abuses against the Rohingya people.

THE UNSC’S ROLE IN PROVIDING SECURITY AND PEACE IN THE WORLD

Conflict Resolution and Peacekeeping

  • The UNSC authorized the deployment of peacekeeping missions, such as the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), which has helped maintain the ceasefire and reduce tensions between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots since 1964.
  • These missions aim to prevent and resolve conflicts and protect civilians in conflict zones.

Sanctions and Diplomacy

  • In response to North Korea’s nuclear weapons program, the UNSC imposed sanctions on North Korea, targeting its economy and restricting its access to resources.
  • These measures are designed to pressure North Korea to come to the negotiating table and engage in diplomatic efforts to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula.

Preventing Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

  • The UNSC’s adoption of Resolution 1540 in 2004 emphasizes the need to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs).
  • It requires all member states to implement measures to prevent non-state actors from acquiring WMDs, thereby reducing the risk of their use and contributing to global security.

Humanitarian Intervention

  • In 2011, the UNSC authorized a no-fly zone and military intervention in Libya (Resolution 1973) to protect civilians from the Gaddafi regime’s violence during the Arab Spring uprisings. This intervention aimed to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe.

Counterterrorism

  • The UNSC has played a vital role in global efforts to combat terrorism. It has passed resolutions targeting terrorist organizations, individuals, and the financing of terrorism, such as resolutions related to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State (ISIS), thereby helping to reduce the threat of international terrorism.

Conflict Mediation

  • The UNSC often engages in diplomatic efforts to mediate conflicts and broker peace agreements. For instance, the UNSC has supported peace talks in Syria and Yemen, attempting to bring warring parties to the negotiating table and facilitating peace settlements.

Protecting Human Rights

  • The UNSC has a responsibility to address situations where human rights abuses or atrocities are occurring. For instance, it established the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia and the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda to prosecute individuals responsible for war crimes and genocide.

Non-Proliferation Treaties

  • The UNSC oversees the implementation and enforcement of various non-proliferation treaties, such as the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). By monitoring compliance and addressing violations, the UNSC helps prevent the spread of nuclear weapons.

ISSUES SURROUNDING THE UNSC:

Permanent Membership & limited inclusivity

  • The composition of the UNSC with five permanent members (P5) – the United States, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom – holding veto power has been a longstanding source of criticism.
  • The geopolitical rivalry among the permanent members has sometimes hindered the Council from effectively addressing global issues. For instance, the United States has been historically shielding Israel from UNSC actions, Russia has been eloping itself from collective action regarding aggression in Cremean Peninsula while China has been willfully vetoing actions against terror hubs in Pakistan.
  • The UNSC does not adequately represent the geopolitical realities of the 21st century, with no permanent seats for countries from Africa, Latin America, or most of Asia. This leads to concerns about the underrepresentation of regions and nations.

Veto Power

  • Veto is the most undemocratic element of the UN, as well as the main cause of inaction on war crimes and crimes against humanity, as it effectively prevents UN action against the permanent members and their allies.
  • Amnesty International claimed that the five permanent members had used their veto to promote their political self-interest or geopolitical interest above the interest of protecting civilians.

Ineffectiveness and Gridlock

  • The UNSC has been criticized for its inability to prevent conflicts or resolve long-standing disputes, often due to political divisions among its members. For instance, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has seen numerous UNSC resolutions and negotiations, but a long-term solution has not been achieved, leading to frustration and continued conflict.

Responsibility to Protect (R2P)

  • The concept of the “Responsibility to Protect” is often discussed in the context of the UNSC. It posits that the international community has a responsibility to intervene when a state is unable or unwilling to protect its own citizens from mass atrocities. However, the UNSC’s application of R2P has been inconsistent and subject to political considerations.

Conflict Resolution and Peacekeeping

  • The UNSC plays a central role in authorizing peacekeeping missions, but these missions often face challenges such as resource constraints, inadequate mandates, and complex political dynamics.

Sanctions

  • The UNSC can impose economic and other sanctions on countries, but these sanctions can be contentious and sometimes harm civilian populations. For instance, sanctions imposed on Iraq in the 1990s had severe humanitarian consequences, impacting the civilian population more than the government. This raised questions about the ethical implications of sanctions.

Use of Force

  • The UNSC has the authority to authorize military force for the maintenance or restoration of international peace and security. The debates over the use of force, such as the 2003 Iraq War, have raised questions about the UNSC’s legitimacy in approving military action.

Unable to tackle contemporary issues

  • The UNSC has been called upon to address the security implications of climate change and environmental degradation. The council’s role in mitigating these issues remains a subject of debate. While the UNSC has discussed climate change as a security issue, concrete actions and resolutions addressing climate-related security threats have been limited.
  • The UNSC has been criticized for not addressing the global challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic effectively. Some argue that the council’s inability to take coordinated action has hindered international efforts to combat the virus.

Transparency and Accountability

  • The UNSC often operates behind closed doors, which can lead to criticisms of a lack of transparency and accountability in its decision-making processes.
  • The usual UN rules don’t apply to the UNSC deliberations and no records are kept of its meetings. Additionally, there is no “text” of the meeting to discuss, amend or object.

 OBSTACLES FOR INDIA’S ENTRY AS A PERMANENT UNSC MEMBER

China’s Resistance

  • China has been a consistent opponent of India’s bid for permanent membership in the UNSC. China’s concerns include India’s growing influence in the region and historical border disputes. As a P5 member, China’s veto can significantly affect any proposed reforms.

Historical Rivalries

  • Historical conflicts and rivalries can influence the stance of some countries. For example, Pakistan has been a vocal opponent of India’s UNSC bid due to the long-standing Kashmir dispute and other issues. Pakistan argues that India’s entry would disrupt regional security dynamics, making the UNSC more contentious.
  • This has also garnered opposition from the ‘coffee club’ (an informal 40-member group to oppose expansion of UNSC permanent membership). China has serious objections to Japan being there in the Security Council. Italy trying to compete with Germany in Europe for a place in the Security Council. Argentia does not agree with the fact that Brazil should represent South America in the UNSC as a permanent representative.

Reform Stalemate

  • The UN reform process, which includes discussions on UNSC expansion, has faced a stalemate, primarily because member states have different visions of what a reformed UNSC should look like.
  • The UN General Assembly’s Inter-Governmental Negotiations (IGN) on UNSC reform have made limited progress over many years due to the divergent positions of member states on issues like the number of new permanent members and the use of veto power.

Lack of Unity Among G4 Nations

  • India is part of the G4 group (along with Brazil, Germany, and Japan), which seeks permanent UNSC membership. However, these countries have not always presented a unified front, and differences in priorities or approaches can weaken their collective efforts.
  • Also, these groups face opposition from other states and blocs, such as the Uniting for Consensus group, which opposes adding new permanent members.

Practical Challenges

  • Expanding the UNSC’s permanent membership involves addressing complex logistical and operational issues, such as the allocation of veto power, equitable representation, and effective decision-making.
  • The question of how to allocate veto power to new permanent members, if any, remains a contentious issue. Any formula for distributing veto power must be agreeable to current P5 members and potential new entrants.

WHY INDIA IS A DESERVING CANDIDATE FOR A PERMANENT UNSC SEAT?

  • India’s claim for permanent representation at the global level is grounded in several significant factors. First, India’s vast population, constituting around 18% of the world’s total, underscores the need for its enduring presence on the world stage.
  • Secondly, India’s economic importance is unmistakable, with its recent ascension to the rank of the fifth-largest economy by nominal GDP and the third-largest by GDP (PPP). This robust economic standing demonstrates its considerable influence in the global arena.
  • Thirdly, India’s military capabilities have been steadily rising. It currently holds the fourth position in the Global Firepower Index, trailing only the United States, Russia, and China, and surpassing even some of the P5 nations like the UK and France. Additionally, India’s advancements in fields such as space exploration underline its expanding prowess. India’s acquired status of a Nuclear Weapons State (NWS) in May 1998 also makes India a natural claimant as a permanent member similar to the existing permanent members who are all Nuclear Weapon States.
  • Fourthly, India has consistently made substantial contributions to UN peacekeeping missions. While there has been a recent decline in troop numbers, India has maintained a strong tradition of active involvement in peacekeeping endeavors worldwide.
  • Lastly, India has a strong commitment to international principles. It has a historical track record of advocating for fundamental principles like respect for sovereignty, non-aggression, non-interference, equality, and peaceful coexistence. Its leadership in the Non-Aligned Movement and its staunch support for disarmament, including the elimination of weapons of mass destruction, particularly nuclear weapons, underscore its dedication to promoting global peace and security.

Achieving reform of the UNSC to accommodate India as a permanent member will require continued negotiation, diplomacy, and a willingness to address the concerns and interests of various stakeholders.

WHETHER THE WORLD SHOULD CONSIDER AN ALTERNATIVE TO THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL (UNSC)?

The question of whether the world should consider an alternative to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is a complex and debated topic. While the UNSC has played a central role in global security and diplomacy since its establishment, it does face various challenges and criticisms, as discussed earlier. Whether an alternative should be pursued depends on several factors and considerations:

  • Reform Within the UNSC: One option is to continue pushing for reforms within the UNSC. The need for a more representative and accountable UNSC is widely acknowledged. If meaningful reforms can be achieved, it may address many of the current criticisms and enhance the UNSC’s effectiveness.
  • Strengthening Other UN Organs: The UN has other organs, such as the General Assembly and specialized agencies, that could be empowered to take on a more substantial role in addressing global issues. This approach could involve delegating some of the UNSC’s functions to other bodies.
  • Regional Organizations: In some cases, regional organizations have taken on security and peacekeeping roles, such as the African Union and the European Union. Depending on the situation, these organizations can address regional conflicts more effectively than a global body like the UNSC.
  • New Multilateral Forums: The establishment of new multilateral forums or organizations to address specific global challenges is another option. For example, the G20 has been used to address economic and financial issues.
  • Ad Hoc Coalitions: Ad hoc coalitions of willing states, like the one formed during the Gulf War in 1990-1991, have been used to address specific crises when UNSC consensus is elusive.
  • Digital Diplomacy and Civil Society: The digital age has allowed for greater communication and coordination among civil society groups, NGOs, and citizens. Digital diplomacy and advocacy play a role in shaping international politics and can serve as a complementary tool to traditional diplomacy.
  • Hybrid Approaches: A combination of the above options may be the most realistic approach. The international system is complex, and addressing global issues often requires a multifaceted approach that leverages multiple organizations, mechanisms, and actors.

It’s important to note that the UNSC remains a critical global institution, and its role in international security and diplomacy is not easily replaceable. Any alternative or reform effort should carefully consider the complexities and geopolitical realities of the current international system.

Ultimately, the feasibility and desirability of alternatives to the UNSC depend on the specific issue at hand, the willingness of major powers to cooperate, and the level of support and consensus among UN member states. International diplomacy is an evolving process, and discussions about the structure and function of global governance institutions are ongoing.

 REFORMING THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL:
A PATH FORWARD FOR GLOBAL STABILITY:

Expansion of Permanent Membership

  • The foremost challenge is to make the UNSC more representative of the contemporary world order. The addition of new permanent members is essential, especially for the G4 nations due to their economic, strategic and military credentials. By expanding permanent membership, we can bridge the gap between the UNSC’s current composition and the realities of the 21st century.

Equitable Allocation of Veto Power

  • The allocation of veto power among new permanent members must be carefully negotiated. A rotating veto system, where new permanent members earn the right to veto over time, could be a viable solution. This approach ensures a gradual transition of power and prevents an abrupt shift in global dynamics.

Greater Transparency and Accountability

  • The UNSC must enhance its transparency and accountability mechanisms. The establishment of a formalized process for reviewing UNSC decisions, with more extensive explanations for veto use, can mitigate concerns about abuse of power.

Strengthening Regional Organizations

  • Regional organizations, such as the African Union and the European Union, play a pivotal role in addressing regional security issues. The importance of working collaboratively with these entities to tackle crises within their respective domains. This approach enables the UNSC to focus on broader global security concerns.

Prudent Use of Sanctions

  • While sanctions are essential tools for the UNSC, they must be employed judiciously. There must be stricter oversight mechanisms to assess the humanitarian impact of sanctions. It is crucial to strike a balance between targeting rogue regimes and minimizing harm to civilian populations.

Promoting Conflict Resolution and Diplomacy

  • The UNSC should prioritize diplomatic efforts and conflict resolution over military intervention whenever feasible. The UNSC should invest more in mediation, peacekeeping, and preventive diplomacy to avert crises before they escalate.

Strong Civil Society Engagement

  • Civil society plays an increasingly vital role in shaping international politics. There must be active steps for involving NGOs, think tanks, and grassroots movements in UNSC deliberations. Their perspectives can provide insights and solutions that traditional diplomacy may overlook.

Strengthening Cybersecurity and Counterterrorism Measures

  • In the digital age, the UNSC must address emerging security threats. There must be establishment of a dedicated UNSC committee on cybersecurity and counterterrorism to tackle these evolving challenges.

THE CONCLUSION: Reforming the UNSC is a complex and delicate endeavor, but it is necessary to address the pressing global issues of our time. It requires diplomatic skill, collaboration, and compromise among member states. By expanding representation, increasing transparency, and promoting conflict resolution, the UNSC can become a more effective guardian of global peace and security in the 21st century. The time for reform is now.

QUESTIONS:

Q.1 “The composition of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) no longer aligns with the realities of the shifting geopolitical landscape and the aspirations for a more equitable multipolar world.” Do you agree? Give relevant arguments in the light of recent developments.

Q.2 India’s economic, strategic and military credentials provide a strong candidature for its inclusion as a permanent UNSC member. Examine.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

VETO POWER

Veto power, in the context of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), is the authority granted to the five permanent members of the UNSC to reject or invalidate any “substantive” resolution.

This power is established in Article 27 of the United Nations Charter, which outlines the following principles:

  • Every UNSC member has a single vote.
  • Decisions related to procedural matters require a positive vote from at least nine members.
  • Decisions on all other matters necessitate a positive vote from at least nine members, with the additional condition that it must include the concurring votes of the permanent members.
  • In practical terms, this means that any of the permanent members can veto or block the adoption of a draft resolution by casting a negative vote. It’s important to note that if a permanent member abstains or is not present during the vote, it will not obstruct the passage of the resolution.
  • While the specific term “power of veto” is not explicitly used in the UN Charter, Article 27 effectively mandates the requirement for unanimous agreement among the great powers, which is why this principle is often referred to as “great power unanimity,” and the act of using this power is commonly known as the “great power veto.”

Do vetoes work in emergency sessions in the General Assembly?

  • Vetoes cannot be applied during emergency special sessions in the General Assembly.
  • The resolution that allowed emergency special sessions to come into existence is known as the ‘Uniting for Peace’ resolution.
  • The General Assembly, when not in session, can convene an emergency special session at the request of the Security Council or of a majority of its own members.


Day-559 | Daily MCQs | UPSC Prelims | HISTORY

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  1. Question 1 of 5
    1. Question

    1. Which of the following statements about the early kingdoms of Tamilakam is correct?

    Correct

    Answer: D
    Explanation:
    The advent of the early historical period in South India is generally dated to the 3rd century BCE. The three most important kingdoms of Tamilakam (the land between the Tirupati hills (Vengadam) and the southernmost tip of the peninsula) were the Cholas, Cheras and Pandayas.
    Option a is incorrect: The principality of the Cholas in the lower Kaveri valley corresponded roughly to modern Tanjore and Trichinopoly districts of Tamil Nadu, and had its capital at Uraiyur. The kingdom of the Pandyas in the valleys of the Tamraparni and Vaigai roughly correspond to modern Tirunelveli, Madurai, Ramnad districts, and south Travancore and had its capital at Madurai. The Cheras on the Kerala coast had their capital at Karuvur, also known as Vanji.
    Option b is incorrect: The premier Chola port was Puhar (also known as Kaveripumpattinam), the major Pandya port was Korkai, while Tondi and Muchiri were the important ports in the Chera kingdom.
    Option c is incorrect: The Chera, Chola, and Pandya kings were the vendar (crowned kings). These great kings had their special insignia of royalty such as the staff, drum, and umbrella. They also had specific emblems of power—the tiger, bow, and fish were the emblems of the Cholas, Cheras, and Pandyas respectively. Apart from the vendar, there were a number of chieftains known as velir. The Sangam poets also eulogize various chieftains such as Ay, Andiran, and Pari for their bravery and generosity.
    Option d is correct: The early Pandya kings included Nediyon, Palshalai Mudukudumi, and Nedunjeliyan. As per sources, king Nedunjeliyan is said to have defeated a confederacy of Cholas, Cheras, and five chieftains at a battle at Talaiyalanganam while he was still very young, in which the Chera king was taken prisoner.

    Incorrect

    Answer: D
    Explanation:
    The advent of the early historical period in South India is generally dated to the 3rd century BCE. The three most important kingdoms of Tamilakam (the land between the Tirupati hills (Vengadam) and the southernmost tip of the peninsula) were the Cholas, Cheras and Pandayas.
    Option a is incorrect: The principality of the Cholas in the lower Kaveri valley corresponded roughly to modern Tanjore and Trichinopoly districts of Tamil Nadu, and had its capital at Uraiyur. The kingdom of the Pandyas in the valleys of the Tamraparni and Vaigai roughly correspond to modern Tirunelveli, Madurai, Ramnad districts, and south Travancore and had its capital at Madurai. The Cheras on the Kerala coast had their capital at Karuvur, also known as Vanji.
    Option b is incorrect: The premier Chola port was Puhar (also known as Kaveripumpattinam), the major Pandya port was Korkai, while Tondi and Muchiri were the important ports in the Chera kingdom.
    Option c is incorrect: The Chera, Chola, and Pandya kings were the vendar (crowned kings). These great kings had their special insignia of royalty such as the staff, drum, and umbrella. They also had specific emblems of power—the tiger, bow, and fish were the emblems of the Cholas, Cheras, and Pandyas respectively. Apart from the vendar, there were a number of chieftains known as velir. The Sangam poets also eulogize various chieftains such as Ay, Andiran, and Pari for their bravery and generosity.
    Option d is correct: The early Pandya kings included Nediyon, Palshalai Mudukudumi, and Nedunjeliyan. As per sources, king Nedunjeliyan is said to have defeated a confederacy of Cholas, Cheras, and five chieftains at a battle at Talaiyalanganam while he was still very young, in which the Chera king was taken prisoner.

  2. Question 2 of 5
    2. Question

    2. Consider the following statements:
    Statement I: The consolidation of the Vijayanagara empire created a supra-local urban network that bolstered trade.
    Statement II: The increasing militarisation of the polity led to the rise of urban power groups.
    Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

    Correct

    Answer: A
    Explanation:
    The consolidation of the Vijayanagara empire integrated the entire Peninsula which led to migration of traders and artisans across the regions and created a supra-local urban network that bolstered trade. This fostered urban developments in Vijayanagara which were linked to several factors like militarisation, migration and trade and commerce. Hence, statements I and II are correct.
    Due to increasing militarisation of the polity, numerous fortified settlements emerged. Fortifications of mercantile towns established by powerful merchant organisations and armed presence within the temple precincts increased. The towns emerged as trading centres and often eroded the power of the older agrarian elites, leading to the rise of urban power groups that entered into alliances with new political forces. So, statement II is the correct explanation of I.

    Incorrect

    Answer: A
    Explanation:
    The consolidation of the Vijayanagara empire integrated the entire Peninsula which led to migration of traders and artisans across the regions and created a supra-local urban network that bolstered trade. This fostered urban developments in Vijayanagara which were linked to several factors like militarisation, migration and trade and commerce. Hence, statements I and II are correct.
    Due to increasing militarisation of the polity, numerous fortified settlements emerged. Fortifications of mercantile towns established by powerful merchant organisations and armed presence within the temple precincts increased. The towns emerged as trading centres and often eroded the power of the older agrarian elites, leading to the rise of urban power groups that entered into alliances with new political forces. So, statement II is the correct explanation of I.

  3. Question 3 of 5
    3. Question

    3. With reference to the history of art forms in India, consider the following statements:
    1. Nāṭyaśāstra is the first text which talks about the various Svaras (notes) used in singing.
    2. Vātsyāyana is the first author to talk about classification of Indian musical instruments.
    3. The Gāndharva saṅgita, one of the streams of music, was practised for salvation.
    How many statements given above are correct?

    Correct

    Answer: A
    Explanation:
    The origin of Indian music can be traced back to evidence from the Vedic period. During this period, the Vedic hymns were chanted and some of them were also set to tune and rhythm. The rhythmic recitations of Ṛigveda were known as Ṛcās.
    Sāmaveda is the compilation of these selected Ṛcās set to Svaras (notes). So, statement 1 is incorrect.
    Only three Svaras — Udātta, Anudātta and Svarita were used in Sāmagāna.
    Mantras chanted during religious activities with Svaras were known as Sāmagāna.
    Udātta was the sharp pitch, Anudātta was grave pitch and Svarita combined in itself the characteristics of both the pitches.
    Statement 2 is incorrect: Bharat’s Nāṭyaśāstra is the most important and pioneer work of music, dance and drama. This is the first text available on the classification of Indian Instruments.
    There are two streams of music known as Mārgi- and Deśi-.
    ● Mārgi- or Gāndharva saṅgita was practiced for salvation. So, statement 3 is correct.
    ● Deśi- Saṅgita which was further divided into classical, semi-classical, folk music, etc.

    Incorrect

    Answer: A
    Explanation:
    The origin of Indian music can be traced back to evidence from the Vedic period. During this period, the Vedic hymns were chanted and some of them were also set to tune and rhythm. The rhythmic recitations of Ṛigveda were known as Ṛcās.
    Sāmaveda is the compilation of these selected Ṛcās set to Svaras (notes). So, statement 1 is incorrect.
    Only three Svaras — Udātta, Anudātta and Svarita were used in Sāmagāna.
    Mantras chanted during religious activities with Svaras were known as Sāmagāna.
    Udātta was the sharp pitch, Anudātta was grave pitch and Svarita combined in itself the characteristics of both the pitches.
    Statement 2 is incorrect: Bharat’s Nāṭyaśāstra is the most important and pioneer work of music, dance and drama. This is the first text available on the classification of Indian Instruments.
    There are two streams of music known as Mārgi- and Deśi-.
    ● Mārgi- or Gāndharva saṅgita was practiced for salvation. So, statement 3 is correct.
    ● Deśi- Saṅgita which was further divided into classical, semi-classical, folk music, etc.

  4. Question 4 of 5
    4. Question

    4. Consider the following pairs:
    Communities associated
    with puppetries – States
    1. Are Kapu – Tamil Nadu
    2. Dayat – Kerala
    3. Ravanachhaya Bhat – Karnataka
    How many pairs given above are correctly matched?

    Correct

    Answer: D
    Explanation:
    The above mentioned communities are associated with Shadow Puppet Theatre Traditions of India.
    The communities which are distinctively associated with it are:
    ● Chamadyacha Bahulya Thakar, Maharashtra
    ● Tolu Bommalatta Killekyata or Are Kapu, Andhra Pradesh
    ● Togalu Gombeyatta Killekyata or Dayat, Karnataka
    ● Tolu Bommalattam Killekyata, Tamil Nadu
    ● Tolpava Kuthu Vellalachetti, Nair, Kerala
    ● Ravanachhaya Bhat, Odisha
    India has the richest variety of types and styles of shadow puppets. Shadow puppets are flat figures. They are cut out of leather, which has been treated to make it translucent. Shadow puppets are pressed against the screen with a strong source of light behind it. The manipulation between the light and the screen make silhouettes or colourful shadows, as the case may be, for the viewers who sit in front of the screen. This tradition of shadow puppets survives in Odisha, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.

    Incorrect

    Answer: D
    Explanation:
    The above mentioned communities are associated with Shadow Puppet Theatre Traditions of India.
    The communities which are distinctively associated with it are:
    ● Chamadyacha Bahulya Thakar, Maharashtra
    ● Tolu Bommalatta Killekyata or Are Kapu, Andhra Pradesh
    ● Togalu Gombeyatta Killekyata or Dayat, Karnataka
    ● Tolu Bommalattam Killekyata, Tamil Nadu
    ● Tolpava Kuthu Vellalachetti, Nair, Kerala
    ● Ravanachhaya Bhat, Odisha
    India has the richest variety of types and styles of shadow puppets. Shadow puppets are flat figures. They are cut out of leather, which has been treated to make it translucent. Shadow puppets are pressed against the screen with a strong source of light behind it. The manipulation between the light and the screen make silhouettes or colourful shadows, as the case may be, for the viewers who sit in front of the screen. This tradition of shadow puppets survives in Odisha, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.

  5. Question 5 of 5
    5. Question

    5. With reference to the cultural history of India, the ‘Hemadpanti style’ of temple architecture is associated with-

    Correct

    Answer: C
    Explanation:
    A number of temples were erected during Yadava period in Maharashtra up to 13-14th century C.E. There are twenty five Yadava temples in Dharashiv and Latur district. These temples are commonly known as ‘Hemadpanti temples’.
    Characteristic features of Yadava temple:
    ● Temples are not decorated on its exterior wall.
    ● Garbhagriha, antarala, sabhamandapa and mukhamandapa are the parts of temple.
    ● The sculptural ornamentation on the pillars and doorjamb is reduced.
    ● Sculpture of Ganesh was carved on Lalatbimba.
    ● These temples are commonly known as ‘Hemadpanti Temples’.
    ● Most temples are dedicated to Shiva.
    In the last quarter of the 12th century AD the Yadavas of Devagiri came into prominence. They had previously been ruling over Seunadesha (Khandesh) as feudatories of the Chalukyas of Kalyani. The founder of the family was Dridhaprahara, the son of Subahu. During their rule a peculiar style of architecture called Hemadpanti after Hemadri or Hemadpant, a minister of Mahadeva and Ramachandra came into vogue.

    Incorrect

    Answer: C
    Explanation:
    A number of temples were erected during Yadava period in Maharashtra up to 13-14th century C.E. There are twenty five Yadava temples in Dharashiv and Latur district. These temples are commonly known as ‘Hemadpanti temples’.
    Characteristic features of Yadava temple:
    ● Temples are not decorated on its exterior wall.
    ● Garbhagriha, antarala, sabhamandapa and mukhamandapa are the parts of temple.
    ● The sculptural ornamentation on the pillars and doorjamb is reduced.
    ● Sculpture of Ganesh was carved on Lalatbimba.
    ● These temples are commonly known as ‘Hemadpanti Temples’.
    ● Most temples are dedicated to Shiva.
    In the last quarter of the 12th century AD the Yadavas of Devagiri came into prominence. They had previously been ruling over Seunadesha (Khandesh) as feudatories of the Chalukyas of Kalyani. The founder of the family was Dridhaprahara, the son of Subahu. During their rule a peculiar style of architecture called Hemadpanti after Hemadri or Hemadpant, a minister of Mahadeva and Ramachandra came into vogue.

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CENTRAL GOODS AND SERVICES TAX (SECOND AMENDMENT) (CGST) BILL, 2023

TAG: GS 3: ECONOMY

THE CONTEXT: Recently, the Lok Sabha passed Central Goods and Services Tax (Second Amendment) (CGST) Bill, 2023.

EXPLANATION:

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE BILL:

  • Change in qualification for members of Appellate Tribunal:
    • The Act allows the central government to set up an Appellate Tribunal on the recommendation of the GST Council.
    • The Tribunal comprises the President, a judicial member, and two technical members.
    • Persons eligible to be appointed as the judicial member are:

(i) a judge of the High Court, or

(ii) a district judge or additional district judge having served for at least 10 years.

  • The Bill allows advocates with at least 10 years of experience to be appointed as the judicial member.
  • They must have substantial experience in matters relating to indirect taxation.
  • The minimum age to be appointed as a member or president of the Tribunal will be 50 years.
  • Age limit:
    • The Bill increases the age limit:

(i) for the president of the Tribunal from 67 to 70 years, and

(ii) for members from 65 to 67 years.

SOURCE: https://www.barandbench.com/news/lok-sabha-passes-cgst-amendment-bill-indirect-tax-lawyers-10-years-experience-gstat-members



WORLD BANK’S TASK FORCE ON MDB REFORM

TAG: GS 3: ECONOMY

THE CONTEXT: Recently, the World Bank has initiated a significant step towards enhancing Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) by forming a task force.

EXPLANATION:

  • This task force, proposed by an independent group of experts during India’s G20 presidency, aims to scrutinize and act upon recommendations geared towards fortifying MDBs.
  • The group president of the World Bank confirmed this development during discussions held recently.

Leadership Role and Reform Roadmap

  • During the interaction with Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister, The minister urged the World Bank, being a prominent MDB, to lead the implementation of the reform agenda for MDBs.
  • The primary objectives of these reforms revolve around amplifying the global presence, efficacy, and assertiveness of these lending institutions.

Global Challenges and Focus Areas

  • It was highlighted that the World Bank had identified eight distinct global challenges demanding immediate attention.
  • However, the Finance Ministry’s statement did not provide detailed insights into these challenges.
  • Despite the lack of elaboration, Finance Minister assured the World Bank of India’s full support in addressing these challenges, indicating India’s commitment to global development endeavours.

India’s Priorities in World Bank’s Reporting

  • It was emphasized that the Country Climate and Development Report by the World Bank should intricately consider India’s specific priorities and circumstances.
  • This directive underscores India’s stance on aligning global initiatives, especially those by prestigious institutions like the World Bank, with the nation’s developmental goals and environmental concerns.

MULTILATERAL DEVELOPMENT BANKS (MDBS):

  • A multilateral development bank (MDB) is an international financial institution chartered by two or more countries for the purpose of encouraging economic development in poorer nations.
  • Multilateral development banks consist of member nations from developed and developing countries.
  • MDBs provide loans and grants to member nations to fund projects that support social and economic development, such as the building of new roads or providing clean water to communities.
  • Multilateral development banks (MDBs) originated in the aftermath of World War II to rebuild war-ravaged nations and stabilize the global financial system.
  • Today, MDBs fund infrastructure, energy, education, and environmental sustainability in developing countries.
  • While commercial banks seek to make profits on loans and other financial services, the goal of MDBs is to issue grants and low-cost loans to improve the economic conditions of impoverished or developing nations.
  • MDBs now operate throughout the world and control trillions of dollars in assets.

Conclusion

  • The formation of a task force by the World Bank to explore and implement reforms in MDBs demonstrates a proactive approach to bolstering global lending institutions.
  • The acknowledgment of significant global challenges and India’s insistence on aligning World Bank reports with its priorities showcase the evolving landscape of international collaborations, where nations seek tailored solutions while supporting broader global agendas.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/business/world-bank-sets-up-task-force-to-act-on-mdb-reform-plan/article67659110.ece



GRINDAVIK ERUPTION IN ICELAND: POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND GEOLOGICAL CONTEXT

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The recent volcanic eruption that commenced near Grindavik in Iceland has raised concerns, but the Icelandic government has assured that it does not pose an immediate threat to life.

EXPLANATION:

  • This eruption, which initiated on December 18th local time, is situated between Sýlingarfell and Hagafell, north of Grindavik—a town located on the Reykjanes Peninsula in the southwest of Iceland.

Eruption Details and Population Impact

  • Location and Proximity:
    • The eruption site lies in close proximity to the Icelandic capital, Reykjavik, which houses a significant portion of the country’s population.
  • Evacuation and Precautions:
    • The 3,800 residents of Grindavik had previously been evacuated on November 10 due to escalating seismic activity.
  • President emphasized the need to safeguard lives and infrastructure in his communication, highlighting the closure of the affected area and the nation’s preparedness to face the natural forces.

Geological Significance of Iceland: ‘Land of Fire and Ice’

  • Mid Atlantic Ridge:
    • Iceland’s unique geological position atop the Mid Atlantic Ridge, the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, fosters its distinct landscape.
  • Natural Features:
    • The country’s terrain showcases an amalgamation of geysers, glaciers, mountains, volcanoes, and lava fields, earning it the moniker ‘Land of Fire and Ice.’
  • Volcanic Activity:
    • Iceland is home to 33 active volcanoes, reflecting a significant concentration of volcanic activity, notably the highest in Europe.

Historical Context and Recent Eruption Trends

  • Reykjanes Peninsula:
    • The region hadn’t witnessed volcanic eruptions for nearly 800 years before experiencing four eruptions within a span of fewer than three years, hinting at a potential new phase of volcanic activity.
  • Eyjafjallajokull Eruption:
    • The last globally significant eruption in Iceland occurred in 2010, when Eyjafjallajokull’s eruption disrupted air traffic across Europe and North America for six days due to an extensive ash cloud.

Expert Opinions and Potential Impact on Air Travel

  • Experts noted that while the possibility of air travel disruptions due to the current eruption is unlikely, it remains a potential concern.
  • The impact on air travel might occur but isn’t guaranteed at this point.

Conclusion

  • The ongoing eruption near Grindavik, Iceland, raises awareness of the country’s unique geological features and its susceptibility to volcanic activity.
  • While the current eruption doesn’t pose an immediate threat to life, the historical context of Icelandic eruptions, along with expert insights, underscores the need for vigilance and preparedness for potential impacts, including on air travel.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE REFER TO THE 14TH NOVEMBER 2023 DNA.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/environment/land-of-fire-and-ice-will-the-grindavik-eruption-in-iceland-be-another-eyjafjallajokull–93471



SAHITYA AKADEMI AWARDS 2023: CELEBRATING LITERARY EXCELLENCE

TAG: GS 1: ART AND CULTURE

THE CONTEXT: The Sahitya Akademi Awards for the year 2023 have been announced, recognizing exceptional literary works across various Indian languages.

EXPLANATION:

  • These awards, bestowed by the Sahitya Akademi—an autonomous body under the Union Culture Ministry—aim to honour authors and their contributions to literature.

Awardees and Recognized Works

  • Literary Diversity
    • Tamil:
      • Rajasekaran (Devibharathi) received the award for his novel “Neervazhi Padooum.”
    • Telugu:
      • Patanjali Sastry was honored for his Telugu short story collection “Rameshwaram Kaakulu Marikonni Kathalu.”
    • Malayalam:
      • V. Ramakrishnan was recognized for his literary study “Malayala Novelinte Deshakalangal.”

Categories of Recognition

  • Poetry:
    • Acknowledged authors include Vijay Verma in Dogri, Vinod Joshi in Gujarati, Manshoor Banihali in Kashmiri, Ashutosh Parida in Odia, and Arun Ranjan Mishra in Sanskrit.
  • Novels:
    • Noteworthy works like Neelum Saran Gour’s “Requim in Raga Janaki” (English) and Swapnamay Chakrabarti’s “Jaler Upar Pani” (Bengali) were recognized.
  • Essays:
    • Lakshmisha Tolpadi’s collection “Mahabharatha Anusandhanada Bharathayatre” in Kannada stood out.

Selection Process and Criteria

  • The awards, recommended by distinguished jury members across 24 languages, were approved by the Sahitya Akademi’s Executive Board.
  • These accolades pertain to books first published between January 2017 and December 31, 2021.

Recognition and Ceremony Details

  • Each recipient will be presented with an award consisting of an engraved copper-plaque, a shawl, and a cash prize of ₹1,00,000.
  • The award presentation ceremony is scheduled for March 12, 2024, where the awardees will be honoured for their literary contributions.

Significance of Sahitya Akademi:

  • The Sahitya Akademi, established in 1954, stands as an independent institution committed to the advancement and promotion of literature in Indian languages.
  • These awards not only acknowledge literary excellence but also encourage and celebrate diverse voices and languages across the country.
  • The Sahitya Akademi supports work in the 24 languages, 22 of which are included in the Eighth Schedule to the Constitution of India, alongside English and Rajasthani.
  • The General Council of the Sahitya Akademi operates for a term of five years.
  • It consists of the president and vice president along with other members.
  • The President is generally chosen from among the members who is generally a distinguished personality of the literary field.

Conclusion

  • The Sahitya Akademi Awards for 2023 serve as a testament to the literary brilliance and diversity prevalent across various Indian languages.
  • By recognizing outstanding contributions across genres, these awards continue to uphold the significance of literature and its profound impact on society.
  • These awards signify and honour the rich cultural heritage of India’s diverse linguistic landscape.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/books/sahitya-akademi-awards-for-2023-announced/article67658599.ece



COP28 CLIMATE SUMMIT: EVALUATING THE MILESTONES AND CHALLENGES

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) took place in Dubai, gathering nations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

EXPLANATION:

  • With a primary focus on tackling the climate crisis, the summit covered diverse aspects including mitigation, adaptation, financing, and the roles of developed and developing nations in climate action.

Achievements and Firsts

  • Loss and Damage Fund Operationalisation
    • An important milestone emerged from the establishment of the ‘Loss and Damage’ (L&D) fund, as agreed upon during COP27.
    • COP28 witnessed the operationalization of this fund, albeit with limited pledged support—$790 million—far below the required annual corpus of $100 billion to $400 billion.
    • However, concerns arose regarding fund management and accessibility, prompting scepticism about the fund’s efficiency in promptly responding to emergencies.
    • There were also reservations about the World Bank’s oversight and the fund’s autonomy.
  • Ambitious Emissions Reduction Targets
    • The summit concluded the inaugural Global Stocktake (GST), aimed at assessing progress towards the goals of the Paris Agreement.
    • Commitments were made to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030, but fossil fuel use was still permitted in certain sectors like plastics, transport, and agriculture, which contradicts the essence of climate justice.
    • Furthermore, reliance on unproven technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS) and carbon removal raised concerns about the effectiveness and risks associated with such methods.
  • Green Finance Mechanisms and Partnerships
    • Efforts were made to address financial shortfalls, with an emphasis on the responsibility of developed nations to provide grant-based finance.
    • Innovations in global green-finance mechanisms, including a $3.5 billion boost for the Green Climate Fund and the introduction of investment initiatives like ALTÉRRA, aimed to mobilize substantial funding.
    • However, these efforts fell short of meeting the estimated annual funding requirement for adaptation.

India’s Stance and Health Declaration

  • India refrained from signing the U.A.E. declaration on climate and health due to potential conflicts with emissions reduction in the healthcare sector.
  • Similarly, India did not sign the Global Methane Pledge as it shifted focus from carbon dioxide to methane, a gas with a shorter lifetime that primarily arises from agricultural practices integral to the livelihoods of small farmers.

Hits and Misses

  • The COP28 outcomes featured several positive aspects, including acknowledgments of nature-based solutions, transition away from fossil fuels, and commitments to sustainable food systems.
  • However, persistent challenges between developed and developing nations, such as fossil-fuel subsidies, financial resource allocation, and differing viewpoints on market mechanisms, remained unresolved.

SOME GLOBAL CLIMATE FINANCING FUNDS:

  • Green Climate Fund (GCF):
    • It was established to limit or reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in developing countries and to help vulnerable societies adapt to the unavoidable impacts of climate change.
  • Adaptation Fund (AF):
    • It was established under the Kyoto Protocol in 2001 and has committed US$ 532 million to climate adaptation and resilience activities.
  • Global Environment Fund (GEF):
    • It has served as an operating entity of the financial mechanism since the Convention came into force in 1994.
    • It is a private equity fund focused on seeking long term financial returns by investments in clean energy under climate change.

Conclusion

  • While COP28 showcased significant strides in renewable energy targets and financial mechanisms, unresolved issues like fund management, reliance on risky technologies, and disagreements on critical matters indicate a mixed outcome.
  • Addressing the disparities between nations and ensuring equitable climate action remains a substantial challenge despite the noteworthy accomplishments at the summit.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/cop28-outcomes-decisions-explained/article67656914.ece



WSDP Bulletin (21/12/2023)

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1.  What explains India’s surprisingly fast GDP growth and the ongoing surge in Sensex? READ MORE

2.  Land of Fire and Ice: Will the Grindavik eruption in Iceland be another Eyjafjallajokull? READ MORE

3.  India a ‘star performer’; projected to contribute over 16% to global growth: IMF READ MORE

4.  World Bank happy with Sri Lanka reforms, releases second tranche of $250 million READ MORE

5.  India set to launch first-ever offshore mineral auction in Q1CY24 READ MORE

6.  Lok Sabha passes Bills to replace British-era criminal laws READ MORE

7.  Disinflation may pave way for interest rate reduction: RBI officials READ MORE

8.  World Bank sets up task force to act on MDB reform plan READ MORE

9.  Sahitya Akademi Awards for 2023 announced READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Inequality, Labour and Social Democracy READ MORE

2. Caste, Class and Exclusivity: Inside India’s Private Universities READ MORE

3. How Konkani idioms on climate, environment are changing with altering weather systems READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Classifying Bills as Money Bills a threat to democracy READ MORE

2. Old Pension Scheme: Should it be restored READ MORE

3. A missed chance to strengthen Indian federalism READ MORE

4. Record suspensions poor optics for temple of democracy READ MORE

5. A bill for control over all communications READ MORE

6. Telecom Bill 2023 Is a Repackaged Version of the Archaic Colonial Law READ MORE

7. Judiciary vs. Executive: Turf war intensifies over judge appointments READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. A broken education system: Apps and coaching classes are the wrong solution READ MORE

2. Why domestic workers’ rights remain in limbo READ MORE

3. End manual scavenging for good and for all READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. US can’t build a meaningful strategic partnership if it stays blind to India’s core concerns over the Khalistan issue READ MORE

2. Maldives and the #IndiaOut Campaign READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. What causes inflation in India: Demand or supply issues? READ MORE   

2. Explained: The FX-rated debate between IMF & RBI READ MORE

3. Indian economy charting a new growth path READ MORE

4. Unlock the potential of manufacturing sector READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Was the COP28 climate summit a milestone or a mirage? | Explained READ MORE

2. Outcomes of the COP-28 climate summit READ MORE

3. COP21 was a game-changer for clean energy, COP28 shows the path ahead READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Covid resurgence: Vigil a must as cases on the rise in India READ MORE

2. New study explains why diverse gut microbiomes offer better protection against harmful microbes READ MORE

3. Bridging the learning gap in Indian schools: Is generative AI the answer? READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. India’s defence budgeting and the point of deterrence READ MORE

2. A security breach that must lead to sweeping changes READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Turbulence in south: On the heavy rain in southern Tamil Nadu, weather forecasting and preparedness READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Fruits of our karma are unavoidable READ MORE

2. The secret of progress READ MORE

3. Permissive parenting to respectful parenting READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. Indian federalism contemplates the division of powers and responsibilities between the Union and the states and unlike in the US, Indian federalism is not spontaneous. Examine.

2. India has the potential to emerge as a major global player in manufacturing but to growing global, going local is the effective way forward to realize this potential in true manner. Comment.

3. The arbitrary power to label any Bill as a Money Bill effectively scuppers any useful role for the Rajya Sabha in making laws. Comment.

4. Collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society is imperative to develop and implement robust AI policies that prioritize ethics, fairness, and inclusivity. Discuss how ethical dilemmas and data privacy concerns can be addressed and AI benefits reach all segments of society can be ensured?

5. AI’s transformative prowess offers a novel perspective, fundamentally redefining India’s vision for the future and India must embrace this technology judiciously, leveraging its power for the greater good while safeguarding the values and ethics that define the nation. Comment.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

  • When states are democratically governed according to law, there are no demagogues.
  • Parliament’s successful functioning is a joint responsibility of both the government and the Opposition.
  • Regardless of the changing domestic realities in Male, India’s regional and geopolitical relevance will continue to keep relations with New Delhi among Male’s high-priority affairs.
  • Bilateral ties are only as strong as the support that a partner government can generate in favour of a policy.
  • Despite recognising asymmetric federalism, the verdict overlooks concerns about sovereignty, Parliament’s powers, and the future of statehood.
  • While we have a personal data protection law, we don’t know how it will be enforced. And when AI in education is sold as a part of the broader digital public infrastructure, that law won’t really apply.
  • If internet services are included in the law’s ambit, then the several alarming requirements related to surveillance, possession, suspension, authorisation, etc. will be applied to those services as well, deepening the threats to our rights and freedoms.
  • A large number of services will be brought under the purview of the Telecommunications Bill, 2023 and the government will be empowered to exercise powers of surveillance over, and intrude into the privacy of, individuals and organisations.
  • The Constitution is not always clear on the balance of power between the Centre and states. The Supreme Court’s J&K ruling stopped short of clarifying it.
  • Indian federalism is unique. The Constitution does not use the word federalism anywhere. However, it prescribes a federal scheme of governance almost throughout.
  • Indian federalism tries to strike a balance between the Union and the states. It contemplates the division of powers and responsibilities between the Union and the states. Unlike in the US, Indian federalism was not spontaneous.
  • A situation of the powerful Union taking a hostile attitude to opposition-ruled states should be avoided, as it might create dissatisfaction and a feeling of dismemberment among the people.
  • Selective use of the law demolishes the Rule of Law which, in the Indian context, is a dominant threat to the nation’s federal character.
  • India has the potential to emerge as a major global player in manufacturing. The government has initiated various measures to strengthen the sector, and businesses must adopt successful strategies in uncertain times. One such strategy is “To grow global, go local”.
  • If Parliament is rendered free of the Opposition and the Upper House circumvented by labelling any Bill as a Money Bill, India will effectively have a one-man rule.
  • The arbitrary power to label any Bill as a Money Bill effectively scuppers any useful role for the Rajya Sabha in making laws.

ESSAY TOPIC

  • The economy is an owned subsidiary of ecology.

50-WORD TALK

  • Former US President Donald Trump’s disqualification from running in Colorado’s 2024 primary ballot might cheer his opponents. But it has just handed him an inflammable issue to fire up his base. It will now go to the US Supreme Court but will only further polarise the country in its wake.

Things to Remember:

  • For prelims-related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
  • Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do map work (marking those areas in maps and exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers, etc. same applies to the national places.)
  • For economy-related news (banking, agriculture, etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related to various economic aspects, for example, if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing price rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates, etc.
  • For main exam-related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occur frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED.
  • Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment to your writing.


Day-558 | Daily MCQs | UPSC Prelims | ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

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  1. Question 1 of 5
    1. Question

    1. The ‘Central Asian Mammals Initiative’, recently seen in the news, is started by which one of the following organisations?

    Correct

    Answer: C
    Explanation:
    The Central Asian region harbours the largest intact and still interconnected grasslands worldwide. As such, it is of global importance for many migratory and nomadic mammals which rely on the vast steppe, desert and mountain ecosystems that enable the essential long-distance movements which ensure their survival. Mass migrants in this region include CMS-listed species such as the Saiga antelope, Mongolian gazelle and Khulan.
    The UN Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS), also known as the Bonn Convention, has strengthened its engagement in Central Asia to conserve migratory mammals, their habitats and the vital role they play in preserving intact ecosystems. The Central Asian Mammals Initiative (CAMI) (Resolution 11.24 (Rev.COP13)) and its associated Programme of Work were adopted by CMS Parties at the COP11 and revised at COP13 in Gandhinagar, India (February 2020).
    With an initiative to strengthen the conservation of Central Asian migratory mammals, CMS aims to provide a common framework to coordinate conservation activities in the region and to coherently address major threats to migratory species.
    Additional information about CMS
    • The UN Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) was signed in 1979 and has been into force since 1983. It is an intergovernmental treaty under the UNEP- popularly known as Bonn Convention.
    • As the only global convention specializing in the conservation of (terrestrial, avian and marine) migratory species, their habitats and migration routes, CMS complements and co-operates with a number of other international organizations, NGOs and partners in the media as well as in the corporate sector.

    Incorrect

    Answer: C
    Explanation:
    The Central Asian region harbours the largest intact and still interconnected grasslands worldwide. As such, it is of global importance for many migratory and nomadic mammals which rely on the vast steppe, desert and mountain ecosystems that enable the essential long-distance movements which ensure their survival. Mass migrants in this region include CMS-listed species such as the Saiga antelope, Mongolian gazelle and Khulan.
    The UN Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS), also known as the Bonn Convention, has strengthened its engagement in Central Asia to conserve migratory mammals, their habitats and the vital role they play in preserving intact ecosystems. The Central Asian Mammals Initiative (CAMI) (Resolution 11.24 (Rev.COP13)) and its associated Programme of Work were adopted by CMS Parties at the COP11 and revised at COP13 in Gandhinagar, India (February 2020).
    With an initiative to strengthen the conservation of Central Asian migratory mammals, CMS aims to provide a common framework to coordinate conservation activities in the region and to coherently address major threats to migratory species.
    Additional information about CMS
    • The UN Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) was signed in 1979 and has been into force since 1983. It is an intergovernmental treaty under the UNEP- popularly known as Bonn Convention.
    • As the only global convention specializing in the conservation of (terrestrial, avian and marine) migratory species, their habitats and migration routes, CMS complements and co-operates with a number of other international organizations, NGOs and partners in the media as well as in the corporate sector.

  2. Question 2 of 5
    2. Question

    2. Consider the following:
    1. Flapshell turtle
    2. Blackshell turtle
    3. Indian tent turtle
    How many of the above species of turtle are herbivores?

    Correct

    Answer: A
    Explanation:
    Option 3 is correct.
    Indian Tent Turtle: The species is native to India, Nepal and Bangladesh with three subspecies recorded from the region viz., P. t. tentoria, P. t. circumdata and P. t. flaviventer.
    ● P. t. tentoria occurs in peninsular India and is recorded from Orissa, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Assam and Madhya Pradesh.
    ● P. t. circumdata occurs in the western tributaries of Ganga and the rivers of Gujarat. It is found in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat.
    ● P. t. flaviventer occurs in the northern tributaries of Ganga and is recorded from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Assam.
    Its habitats include still water pools on river side and slow running water near the river banks. These are active swimmers and are mainly herbivorous.
    Due to the attractive appearance of the species, they are illegally traded in the pet market.

    Conservation Status:
    ● IUCN : Least concern
    ● Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 : Schedule I
    ● CITES : Appendix II
    Options 1 and 2 are incorrect: Both flapshell and black turtle are omnivores. They feed on aquatic plants and insects, frogs, shrimp, snails, fruits, flowers, grasses and seeds.
    Flapshell turtle
    • Flapshell turtle lives in shallow, stagnant waters in lakes, rivers, ponds and streams in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh and Myanmar.
    • It is a freshwater species of turtle that is adapted to survive in drought conditions. It often burrows and moves from one water hole to another to avoid desiccation. It also undergoes aestivation to survive dry conditions.
    • It prefers swampy areas with soil and exposure to sunlight as common nesting sites. It is generally solitary and active during the day.
    • It is listed as Schedule I species in Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, thus it has been accorded the highest level of protection in India.
    Blackshell turtle
    • Black turtles (freshwater turtle species) are commonly found in the Indomalayan biogeographical realm in India, Nepal, Sri lanka, Myanmar and Bangladesh.
    • It is listed under Schedule II of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

    Incorrect

    Answer: A
    Explanation:
    Option 3 is correct.
    Indian Tent Turtle: The species is native to India, Nepal and Bangladesh with three subspecies recorded from the region viz., P. t. tentoria, P. t. circumdata and P. t. flaviventer.
    ● P. t. tentoria occurs in peninsular India and is recorded from Orissa, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Assam and Madhya Pradesh.
    ● P. t. circumdata occurs in the western tributaries of Ganga and the rivers of Gujarat. It is found in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat.
    ● P. t. flaviventer occurs in the northern tributaries of Ganga and is recorded from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Assam.
    Its habitats include still water pools on river side and slow running water near the river banks. These are active swimmers and are mainly herbivorous.
    Due to the attractive appearance of the species, they are illegally traded in the pet market.

    Conservation Status:
    ● IUCN : Least concern
    ● Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 : Schedule I
    ● CITES : Appendix II
    Options 1 and 2 are incorrect: Both flapshell and black turtle are omnivores. They feed on aquatic plants and insects, frogs, shrimp, snails, fruits, flowers, grasses and seeds.
    Flapshell turtle
    • Flapshell turtle lives in shallow, stagnant waters in lakes, rivers, ponds and streams in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh and Myanmar.
    • It is a freshwater species of turtle that is adapted to survive in drought conditions. It often burrows and moves from one water hole to another to avoid desiccation. It also undergoes aestivation to survive dry conditions.
    • It prefers swampy areas with soil and exposure to sunlight as common nesting sites. It is generally solitary and active during the day.
    • It is listed as Schedule I species in Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, thus it has been accorded the highest level of protection in India.
    Blackshell turtle
    • Black turtles (freshwater turtle species) are commonly found in the Indomalayan biogeographical realm in India, Nepal, Sri lanka, Myanmar and Bangladesh.
    • It is listed under Schedule II of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

  3. Question 3 of 5
    3. Question

    3. The ‘Bridgetown Initiative’, often seen in the news, is concerned with:

    Correct

    Answer: A
    Explanation:
    The Bridgetown Initiative, led by Barbados, is a proposal to reform the world of development finance, particularly how rich countries help poor countries cope with and adapt to climate change.
    Barbados is one of the Caribbean’s most vulnerable nations to climate change. Hurricanes are more frequent and intense and the island is also at risk from rising sea levels, storm surges, coastal erosion, droughts and flooding. Now the government of Barbados, led by Mia Mottley, the island’s first woman prime minister, is championing a radical initiative that could transform how lending is made to developing nations in a climate crisis.
    The key demands of the Bridgetown Initiative are:
    1. LIQUIDITY SUPPORT
    ● U.N. member states should fast-track the transfer of $100 billion in so-called ‘Special Drawing Rights’, a monetary reserve currency, to programmes that support climate resilience and subsidise lending to low-income countries.
    ● The International Monetary Fund should also immediately suspend surcharges – additional interest payments imposed on heavily indebted borrowing countries – for two to three years.
    ● It should also restore “enhanced access limits” established during the COVID pandemic for two emergency financial support instruments, the Rapid Credit Facility (RCF) and Rapid Financing Instruments.
    2. DEBT SUSTAINABILITY
    ● G20 creditor countries should redesign their Common Framework for restructuring the debt of poor countries in default, notably by speeding up debt relief talks and allowing middle-income countries to access it.
    ● The IMF should encourage the restructuring of unsustainable debt in a way that is consistent across countries, and change the way it analyses the debt to incentivise investments that create future savings, such as those for climate adaptation.
    ● Public and private creditors should include disaster clauses in lending deals to allow countries to divert debt payments to disaster relief; and refinance high-interest and short-term debt with credit guarantees and longer maturities.
    ● U.N. member states should agree to raise $100 billion a year for a fund to help pay for the climate-related loss and damage suffered by developing countries.
    3. PRIVATE CAPITAL
    ● The IMF and multilateral development banks should offer $100 billion a year in currency risk guarantees to help drive private sector investment in projects that would help developing countries make the transition to a low-carbon economy.
    4. DEVELOPMENT LENDING
    ● The G20 and other shareholders of the World Bank, IMF and development institutions should fully implement the 2022 recommendations of a panel of experts aimed at boosting lending by the multilateral development banks.
    ● Increase the leveraging of the World Bank’s International Development Association, which provides concessional finance; fully fund its emergency support facility to $6 billion by end-2023; and scale up the IDA’s funding to $279 billion.
    ● Raise the access limits to concessional finance through the Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust and the Resilience & Sustainability Trust.
    ● Assess funding eligibility in light of a country’s vulnerability and provide low-cost, 50-year loans to help them invest in areas including climate resilience, water security, pandemic preparedness and access to renewable energy.
    ● Simplify and harmonise the way countries can apply to access loans across the world, and provide more support in the process. The international financial institutions should also finance development plans that help protect shared resources.

    Incorrect

    Answer: A
    Explanation:
    The Bridgetown Initiative, led by Barbados, is a proposal to reform the world of development finance, particularly how rich countries help poor countries cope with and adapt to climate change.
    Barbados is one of the Caribbean’s most vulnerable nations to climate change. Hurricanes are more frequent and intense and the island is also at risk from rising sea levels, storm surges, coastal erosion, droughts and flooding. Now the government of Barbados, led by Mia Mottley, the island’s first woman prime minister, is championing a radical initiative that could transform how lending is made to developing nations in a climate crisis.
    The key demands of the Bridgetown Initiative are:
    1. LIQUIDITY SUPPORT
    ● U.N. member states should fast-track the transfer of $100 billion in so-called ‘Special Drawing Rights’, a monetary reserve currency, to programmes that support climate resilience and subsidise lending to low-income countries.
    ● The International Monetary Fund should also immediately suspend surcharges – additional interest payments imposed on heavily indebted borrowing countries – for two to three years.
    ● It should also restore “enhanced access limits” established during the COVID pandemic for two emergency financial support instruments, the Rapid Credit Facility (RCF) and Rapid Financing Instruments.
    2. DEBT SUSTAINABILITY
    ● G20 creditor countries should redesign their Common Framework for restructuring the debt of poor countries in default, notably by speeding up debt relief talks and allowing middle-income countries to access it.
    ● The IMF should encourage the restructuring of unsustainable debt in a way that is consistent across countries, and change the way it analyses the debt to incentivise investments that create future savings, such as those for climate adaptation.
    ● Public and private creditors should include disaster clauses in lending deals to allow countries to divert debt payments to disaster relief; and refinance high-interest and short-term debt with credit guarantees and longer maturities.
    ● U.N. member states should agree to raise $100 billion a year for a fund to help pay for the climate-related loss and damage suffered by developing countries.
    3. PRIVATE CAPITAL
    ● The IMF and multilateral development banks should offer $100 billion a year in currency risk guarantees to help drive private sector investment in projects that would help developing countries make the transition to a low-carbon economy.
    4. DEVELOPMENT LENDING
    ● The G20 and other shareholders of the World Bank, IMF and development institutions should fully implement the 2022 recommendations of a panel of experts aimed at boosting lending by the multilateral development banks.
    ● Increase the leveraging of the World Bank’s International Development Association, which provides concessional finance; fully fund its emergency support facility to $6 billion by end-2023; and scale up the IDA’s funding to $279 billion.
    ● Raise the access limits to concessional finance through the Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust and the Resilience & Sustainability Trust.
    ● Assess funding eligibility in light of a country’s vulnerability and provide low-cost, 50-year loans to help them invest in areas including climate resilience, water security, pandemic preparedness and access to renewable energy.
    ● Simplify and harmonise the way countries can apply to access loans across the world, and provide more support in the process. The international financial institutions should also finance development plans that help protect shared resources.

  4. Question 4 of 5
    4. Question

    4. The buttonwood trees have drawn much attention in recent times in states like Goa. Which one of the following best explains the reason behind it?

    Correct

    Answer: D
    Explanation:
    Conocarpus, also known as buttonwood tree, is an invasive species like Prosopis juliflora and Lantana camara which raises much apprehension among environmentalists since the tree is used for urban greening in various parts of the country. It is renowned for its use in public spaces for its ornamental looks but is known to have negative effects on the local biodiversity.
    One of the major concerns is that Conocarpus trees have deep roots that can damage telecommunication lines, drainage systems, and freshwater systems.
    Secondly, the trees of this species flower in winter and spread pollen in nearby areas. It is learnt that this is causing diseases like cold, cough, asthma, allergy etc.
    With glossy, dark-green leaves, Conocarpus is an evergreen tree species. The animals do not find this fast-growing species as palatable enough.
    Additional information about this tree:
    ● It is a mangrove tree species that can grow well in acidic and alkaline soil conditions.
    ● It has high water-absorption capacity.
    ● There are two species of Conocarpus (buttonwood) trees, with several varieties and hybrids — Conocarpus erectus, which is more widely used in India, is native to South America, and C. lancifolius is native to East Africa.
    ● It is an evergreen tree species which is ideal for seashore plantation since it is highly tolerant of salt and drought conditions.
    ● The strong wood of buttonwood was used for firewood, cabinet-making (furniture) and charcoal-making.
    ● It propagates by seeds or stem cuttings.
    ● Serious pollen allergies and respiratory problems have been reported in the vicinity of their plantations, which has led to civic agencies taking action to ban them. The problems had already been noted in Kuwait and other parts of the Middle East, as well as in Karachi and Faizabad in Pakistan, when they started being used in greening projects in India.

    Incorrect

    Answer: D
    Explanation:
    Conocarpus, also known as buttonwood tree, is an invasive species like Prosopis juliflora and Lantana camara which raises much apprehension among environmentalists since the tree is used for urban greening in various parts of the country. It is renowned for its use in public spaces for its ornamental looks but is known to have negative effects on the local biodiversity.
    One of the major concerns is that Conocarpus trees have deep roots that can damage telecommunication lines, drainage systems, and freshwater systems.
    Secondly, the trees of this species flower in winter and spread pollen in nearby areas. It is learnt that this is causing diseases like cold, cough, asthma, allergy etc.
    With glossy, dark-green leaves, Conocarpus is an evergreen tree species. The animals do not find this fast-growing species as palatable enough.
    Additional information about this tree:
    ● It is a mangrove tree species that can grow well in acidic and alkaline soil conditions.
    ● It has high water-absorption capacity.
    ● There are two species of Conocarpus (buttonwood) trees, with several varieties and hybrids — Conocarpus erectus, which is more widely used in India, is native to South America, and C. lancifolius is native to East Africa.
    ● It is an evergreen tree species which is ideal for seashore plantation since it is highly tolerant of salt and drought conditions.
    ● The strong wood of buttonwood was used for firewood, cabinet-making (furniture) and charcoal-making.
    ● It propagates by seeds or stem cuttings.
    ● Serious pollen allergies and respiratory problems have been reported in the vicinity of their plantations, which has led to civic agencies taking action to ban them. The problems had already been noted in Kuwait and other parts of the Middle East, as well as in Karachi and Faizabad in Pakistan, when they started being used in greening projects in India.

  5. Question 5 of 5
    5. Question

    5. Consider the following:
    1. Squids
    2. Shrimps
    3. Saltwater crocodiles
    4. Porpoises
    5. Seals
    How many of the above are the examples of nekton species?

    Correct

    Answer: D
    Explanation:
    Options 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 are correct.
    Animals that swim or move freely in the ocean are nektons. Nekton comes in all shapes and sizes. They live in shallow and deep ocean waters. Most nekton eat zooplankton, other nektons or they scavenge for waste.
    There are three types of nektons:
    The largest group of nektons are chordates and have bones or cartilage. This group includes:
    ● bony fish
    ● whales
    ● sharks
    ● turtles
    ● snakes
    ● eels
    ● porpoises
    ● dolphins
    ● seals
    Molluscan nekton are animals like octopus and squid.
    Arthropod nekton are animals like shrimp. Most arthropods are benthos or bottom dwelling organisms.

    Incorrect

    Answer: D
    Explanation:
    Options 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 are correct.
    Animals that swim or move freely in the ocean are nektons. Nekton comes in all shapes and sizes. They live in shallow and deep ocean waters. Most nekton eat zooplankton, other nektons or they scavenge for waste.
    There are three types of nektons:
    The largest group of nektons are chordates and have bones or cartilage. This group includes:
    ● bony fish
    ● whales
    ● sharks
    ● turtles
    ● snakes
    ● eels
    ● porpoises
    ● dolphins
    ● seals
    Molluscan nekton are animals like octopus and squid.
    Arthropod nekton are animals like shrimp. Most arthropods are benthos or bottom dwelling organisms.

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CONVICTION OF TAMIL NADU MINISTER: DISQUALIFICATION LOOMS AMIDST LEGAL BATTLE

TAG: GS 2: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

THE CONTEXT: Tamil Nadu’s Higher Education Minister encountered a significant setback as the Madras High Court convicted him and his wife in a case involving multiple instances of disproportionate assets.

EXPLANATION:

  • This verdict puts the Minister at risk of immediate disqualification from the State’s Legislative Assembly unless his conviction is stayed or overturned.
  • He is going to appeal to the Supreme Court soon.

Judicial Review and Verdict Rationale

  • Justice G. Jayachandran, overturning an earlier 2016 trial court’s acquittal order, deemed it “palpably wrong, manifestly erroneous, and demonstrably unsustainable.”
  • The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption’s (DVAC) appeal, lodged in February 2017, challenged the initial verdict, which favoured the Minister and his wife.
  • The judge highlighted that the prosecution sufficiently substantiated that the couple possessed assets amounting to ₹1.72 crore, disproportionate to their known income sources from April 2006 to May 2010, a period coinciding with tenure as Minister for Higher Education and Mines.
  • Consequently, Minister faced charges of criminal misconduct under the Prevention of Corruption Act, while his wife was found guilty of abetment.

Critique of Trial Court’s Decision

  • The judge criticized the trial court’s acceptance of the income tax returns filed by Minister’s wife post-registration of the disproportionate assets case.
  • He labelled this decision as patently erroneous, emphasizing that considering the couple as separate entities and accepting self-serving tax declarations led to miscarriage of justice.
  • The judge contended that treating the spouse of a public servant as a separate entity should be contextually evaluated.
  • Even if the spouse operates separate income tax accounts or businesses, evidence suggested a scenario where she functioned as a mere conduit for the public servant’s illicitly acquired assets.

Further Legal Proceedings and Potential Disqualification

  • The court scheduled a hearing on Thursday, December 21, for Minister and his wife to present their case before sentencing.
  • As per the Representation of the People Act, a legislator convicted under the PCA faces disqualification for six years from the date of conviction, with imprisonment extending the disqualification period.
  • The Minister’s potential disqualification hinges on the Supreme Court’s response to his appeal and the stay or annulment of his conviction.

Conclusion: Ongoing Legal Battle and Political Ramifications

  • The conviction and the looming threat of disqualification have profound implications for Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.
  • The pending legal proceedings, including the Supreme Court appeal and the revision against a previous acquittal, contribute to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Ponmudy’s political future and the potential repercussions for the state’s governance.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/madras-high-court-convicts-tn-minister-ponmudy-his-wife-in-a-disproportionate-assets-case/article67653085.ece/amp/



INCREASED BORROWING ALLOWANCES FOR STATES

TAG: GS 2: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

THE CONTEXT: The Finance Ministry has revealed that states in India may avail themselves of approximately ₹2.04 lakh crore as supplementary borrowing limits this fiscal year, surpassing their regular net borrowing limits.

EXPLANATION:

  • This additional borrowing capacity has been granted to support specific financial obligations and incentivize reform-driven initiatives.

BREAKDOWN OF ADDITIONAL BORROWING ALLOWANCES

  • Pension Liability Relief
    • Pension Contributions to National Pension System (NPS):
      • 22 states have been authorized to raise nearly ₹61,000 crore in additional borrowings beyond their standard net borrowing ceilings (capped at 3% of Gross State Domestic Product – GSDP as of October 27).
      • This extra borrowing privilege is extended to states that have fulfilled their pension liabilities by contributing to the National Pension System, which manages government employee retirement savings.
    • Power Sector Reforms
      • Performance-Based Incentives:
        • Another provision enables states to raise over ₹1.43 lakh crore this fiscal year, in line with the Ministry of Power’s recommendations.
        • This borrowing capacity is linked to the Fifteenth Finance Commission’s suggestion to grant states an extra borrowing space equivalent to 0.5% of their GSDP.
        • This incentive aims to reward states that implement reforms in the power sector, fostering improvements in operational and economic efficiency.

OVERVIEW OF NET BORROWING CEILINGS

  • Standard Net Borrowing Ceiling:
    • The regular net borrowing limit for states stands at ₹8,59,988 crore for the current fiscal year.
    • This limit is in accordance with the recommendations set forth by the Fifteenth Finance Commission.
  • Approved Borrowings:
    • Consequently, approvals have been granted for states to raise funds through various channels:
      • Open Market Borrowings (OMB):
        • States have been allowed to raise ₹6.99 lakh crore via open market borrowings.
      • Negotiated Loans:
        • Additionally, approvals for negotiated loans amount to ₹69,371 crore.

IMPLICATIONS AND FINANCIAL FLEXIBILITY

  • The increased borrowing allowances offer states crucial financial flexibility, empowering them to address specific financial commitments, particularly pertaining to pension liabilities managed through contributions to the National Pension System.
  • Moreover, the borrowing incentives tied to power sector reforms underline the government’s emphasis on encouraging states to implement measures that enhance the efficiency and performance of this critical sector.
  • By surpassing the standard net borrowing limits, states can access additional financial resources, albeit tied to specific criteria and reform-oriented initiatives, enabling them to bolster fiscal capabilities and potentially enhance infrastructure development and service delivery within their regions.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/business/states-can-borrow-an-extra-2-lakh-crore-this-year/article67655189.ece/amp/



The eBse MODEL

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: A recent study published in Scientific Reports introduces the electron Born self-energy (eBse) model as an innovative extension challenging conventional cosmological perceptions.

EXPLANATION:

  • It is proposed by Dr. Bruce Law from Kansas State University.
  • This model presents a unique mechanism attributing cosmic inflation to a constant potential energy density, offering an alternative explanation for dark energy.

Understanding Dark Energy and Its Enigma

  • Dark energy, accounting for approximately 68% of the universe’s total energy content, remains an enigmatic force fuelling the universe’s accelerated expansion.
  • Unlike dark matter, dark energy displays uniform distribution and is often associated with the cosmological constant (Λ), initially posited by Einstein to explain cosmic expansion.

Conventional Models and the ΛCDM Paradigm

  • Traditional cosmological models, notably ΛCDM, link dark energy to the intrinsic energy of space’s vacuum, contributing to the observed accelerated expansion.
  • However, the eBse model introduces a departure from this concept by proposing that the energy associated with the electric field surrounding a finite-sized electron contributes significantly to dark energy.

Mechanisms of Cosmic Inflation and Transition Models

  • Law highlights two distinct cosmological theories: cosmic inflation and the ΛCDM model.
  • Cosmic inflation hypothesizes a rapid, exponential expansion of the universe in its early stages.
  • This phase addresses foundational issues of the Big Bang theory, explaining large-scale uniformity and isotropy.
  • The eBse model delineates a critical glass transition temperature (TG = 1.06 × 10^17K) when the universe moves out of equilibrium.
  • Beyond this threshold, exponential acceleration ensues, driven by a constant potential energy density.

The eBse Model: Core Principles and Unique Perspectives

  • The eBse model’s foundation lies in viewing intergalactic space akin to a single hydrogen atom, with ionization accounting for an electron’s electric field.
  • Law’s premise stems from contemplating the physics of finite-sized electrons and positrons, expanding the model’s scope to dense scenarios for consistency with astrophysical observations.
  • In this model, temperature (T) acts as the inflation while potential energy density ψ(T) represents a plateau potential.
  • Temperature fluctuations influence system behaviour, maintaining relative stability within certain ranges.
  • This model introduces a seamless transition between cosmic inflation and the later ΛCDM model, forging a connection between early and later evolutionary stages of the universe.

Validation and Future Prospects

  • Law underscores consistency between his model and Planck collaboration 2013 findings on cosmic inflation, validated through detailed analyses of temperature fluctuations in the cosmic microwave background (CMB).
  • Future endeavours aim to validate the eBse model through comparisons with astrophysical measurements, particularly focusing on CMB temperature fluctuations.
  • However, the model’s current limitations in addressing photonic transport and quantum fluctuations necessitate further exploration and refinement.

Conclusion: The Evolutionary Trajectory of the eBse Model

  • The eBse model represents a paradigm shift, challenging established cosmological norms by providing a distinct mechanism for cosmic inflation and dark energy.
  • Its potential to bridge gaps between early universe dynamics and later-stage evolution underscores its significance in reshaping cosmological paradigms, urging continual refinement and exploration for a comprehensive understanding of the universe’s expansion history.

SOURCE: https://phys.org/news/2023-12-ebse-perspective-dark-energy-inflation.html



OCEAN’S ENHANCED CARBON STORAGE CAPACITY

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: A groundbreaking study published in Nature challenges previous estimations regarding the ocean’s capacity to sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

EXPLANATION:

Role of Plankton in Carbon Sequestration

  • The study delves into the pivotal role of plankton, microscopic organisms, in facilitating the transfer of carbon from the ocean’s surface to its depths.
  • Plankton, through the process of photosynthesis, consume carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and transform it into organic matter as they grow.
  • Upon their demise, some plankton convert into particles termed “marine snow,” which gradually descends to the ocean floor.
  • These particles not only store carbon but also serve as essential nutrients for a spectrum of deep-sea organisms, from bacteria to larger deep-sea fish.

Insights from Oceanographic Data

  • The research team, comprising seven scientists, meticulously examined data compiled from oceanographic expeditions spanning back to the 1970s.
  • Utilizing this extensive dataset, they constructed a digital map delineating the movement of organic matter across the world’s oceans.
  • This comprehensive analysis led to a re-evaluation of the ocean’s carbon storage capacity.

Revised Estimate of Carbon Storage in the Ocean

  • The study’s revised estimate suggests that the ocean has the potential to store 15 gigatons of carbon annually.
  • This noteworthy increase from the IPCC’s previous estimation of 11 gigatons annually highlights a substantial advancement in comprehending global-scale carbon exchanges between the atmosphere and the ocean.

Implications and Significance

  • This re-evaluation of the ocean’s capacity to sequester carbon represents a significant stride in understanding the intricate dynamics of carbon movement between the atmosphere and the ocean.
  • Despite this enhanced absorption of carbon dioxide by the ocean, it’s crucial to note that this process occurs over an extensive period, spanning tens of thousands of years.
  • Consequently, it is insufficient to counterbalance the rapid increase in CO2 emissions stemming from industrial activities since the 18th century.

Ocean Ecosystem’s Role in Climate Regulation

  • However, the study underscores the pivotal role of the ocean ecosystem as a substantial contributor to the long-term regulation of global climate dynamics.
  • It emphasizes that while the ocean’s absorption process might not suffice to offset current emissions, acknowledging its significance underscores the need for sustained efforts to protect and understand this ecosystem’s vital role in mitigating climate change.
  • The ocean, acting as a major player in the global climate system, warrants continued scientific attention and conservation efforts.

SOURCE: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-023-03662-7



THE IMPACT OF EL NINO ON NORTHEAST MONSOON AND SOUTH TAMIL NADU DELUGE

TAG: GS 1: GEOGRAPHY

THE CONTEXT: The recent deluge in south Tamil Nadu, particularly in areas like Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli, has been attributed to an active Northeast monsoon (NEM) intensified by the El Nino phenomenon.

EXPLANATION:

  • El Nino, characterized by warmer-than-normal temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, is a phase of the El Nino Southern Oscillation Phenomenon (ENSO).
  • This phase tends to augment rainfall extremes, specifically during the Northeast monsoon period.

Impact of El Nino on Rainfall Extremes

  • Studies indicate that extreme rainfall occurrences during the Northeast monsoon in regions of southern Tamil Nadu are notably more frequent than during the Southwest monsoon season.
  • The recent heavy rainfall is a reflection of this pattern, with five districts experiencing significant downpours, surpassing normal rainfall levels by staggering percentages.
  • Tirunelveli received 363.6 mm of rainfall, an astonishing 5,094% higher than the usual amount.
  • Thoothukudi encountered 343.6 mm of rain, exceeding the normal by 7,059%.
  • Other affected districts include Tenkasi, Virudhunagar, and Kanyakumari, each experiencing substantial rainfall exceeding the expected averages.

Meteorological Factors Contributing to Extreme Rainfall

  • Experts emphasize the contribution of the El Nino phenomenon in intensifying the Northeast monsoon, thereby creating conducive conditions for extreme rainfall events.
  • Factors contributing to the deluge include:
    • Cyclonic Circulations:
      • These atmospheric whirls in upper layers induce low-pressure areas, leading to rainfall.
      • The presence of cyclonic circulations, particularly near Kanyakumari, facilitated strong upper-level divergence.
      • This resulted in significant low-level convergence of moisture-laden winds towards south Tamil Nadu.
    • Upper-Level Divergence and Low-Level Convergence:
      • The spreading out of air in the upper atmosphere causes air below to rise, leading to low-level convergence.
      • This process brings moisture-laden winds, fostering extreme rainfall events.
    • Influence of Cyclonic Systems:
      • After the impact of Cyclone Michaung, a diffuse cyclonic system near the south Tamil Nadu coast further intensified northeast winds, creating wind and wave convergence over the region, especially around the gap between Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu (Palk Bay & Gulf of Mannar).

Previous Observations and Weather Patterns

  • Historically, research suggests that extreme rainfall during the Northeast monsoon (December-February) is more prevalent in the southern regions of Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka compared to the Southwest monsoon (June-September).
  • Studies analyzing 30 different weather patterns have identified specific climate variability, with certain patterns significantly associated with extreme rainfall occurrences in autumn and winter around Sri Lanka and south Tamil Nadu.

EL-NINO:

  • El Niño is characterized by unusually warm ocean temperatures in the Equatorial Pacific, as opposed to La Niña, which is characterized by unusually cold ocean temperatures in the Equatorial Pacific.
  • El Niño is an oscillation of the ocean-atmosphere system in the tropical Pacific having important consequences for weather around the globe.
  • Among these consequences are increased rainfall across the southern tier of the US and in Peru, which has caused destructive flooding, and drought in the West Pacific, sometimes associated with devastating brush fires in Australia.
  • Observations of conditions in the tropical Pacific are considered essential for the prediction of short term (a few months to 1 year) climate variations.

Implications and Conclusion

  • The current deluge over Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli aligns with one of these identified patterns.
  • The active pattern during the NEM season strengthens the monsoon, potentially enhancing rainfall over coastal Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka.
  • In essence, the convergence of various meteorological factors, including El Nino’s influence on the Northeast monsoon, cyclonic circulations, upper-level divergence, and low-level convergence, has contributed to the recent extreme rainfall events in south Tamil Nadu.
  • Understanding these complex interactions is crucial for predicting and mitigating the impacts of such extreme weather occurrences in the future.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/el-nino-fuelled-northeast-monsoon-caused-the-deluge-in-south-tamil-nadu-experts-93469



WSDP Bulletin (20/12/2023)

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1.  El Nino-fuelled Northeast monsoon caused the deluge in south Tamil Nadu: Experts READ MORE

2.  Oceans can capture more carbon dioxide than previously thought READ MORE

3.  The eBse model: A new perspective on dark energy and inflation READ MORE

4.  Tamil Nadu Minister Ponmudy convicted, faces disqualification READ MORE

5.  U.S. launches multinational push to safeguard Red Sea commerce READ MORE

6.  States can borrow an extra ₹2 lakh crore this year READ MORE

7.  Sourcing FCI rice under OMSS to impact retail prices READ MORE

8.  RBI tightens norms for lenders investing in AIFs READ MORE

9.  Why the UK banned Air France, Lufthansa, and Etihad ads over ‘greenwashing’ claims READ MORE

10. Disputes over natural resources or property triggered 16.8% of all murders in India in 2019-21: UN report READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Caste discrimination in Karnataka school: Cast out READ MORE

2. Policing in the digital realm READ MORE

3. How Konkani idioms on climate, environment are changing with altering weather systems READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. The deep import of the Article 370 verdict READ MORE

2. Justice, not just punishment READ MORE

3. Opposition removal from Parliament: Breach and stain READ MORE

4. Incoming call: On the introduction of the Telecommunications Bill, 2023 READ MORE

5. Suspension of MPs shows Parliament must find better ways to engage READ MORE

6. Telecom Bill: Allay concerns, ensure inbuilt regulatory checks READ MORE

7. Executive powers must be defined in a federal’ India READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Global migrations and governance READ MORE

2. Higher education in Kerala needs an overhaul READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. Between Trump and Putin, a vulnerable Europe READ MORE

2. On climate change, India’s challenges leading the Global South READ MORE

3. India emerges as a major world player READ MORE

4. US-led naval force might not end Houthi ship attacks READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. India’s ethanol conundrum READ MORE   

2. FDI in export–linked e-tailing is a bad idea READ MORE

3. Need agri-friendly polices to stop farmer suicides READ MORE

4. RBI’s leap into cloud services is a step back for innovation, competition & regulation READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Climate-focused policies are key to building resilient infrastructure READ MORE

2. Transitioning from fossil fuels demands concrete action plans READ MORE

3. ‘Transitioning away’ from fossil fuels and what it means for India READ MORE

4. Soil as carbon sink READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Shaping AI discourse READ MORE

2. A law to keep AI under check READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. Parliament attacks have exposed shameful lack of security preparedness READ MORE

2. Embarrassing security breach READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Turbulence in south: On the heavy rain in southern Tamil Nadu, weather forecasting and preparedness READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Master the art of being self-aware READ MORE

2. The secret of progress READ MORE

3. Permissive parenting to respectful parenting READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. The “demographic dividend” can only be exploited if the labour force has the requisite skills to participate productively in the economy’s growth process. In light of statement analyse the importance of digital literacy to explore the potential of labour force.

2. While the Telecom bill gives high priority to curtailing illegal phone taps, it does not protect individual privacy. Critically examine.

3. In a world pulsating with technological prowess, the realm of artificial intelligence has transcended its commercial beginnings to emerge as a potent force for societal betterment. Comment.

4. Collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society is imperative to develop and implement robust AI policies that prioritize ethics, fairness, and inclusivity. Discuss how ethical dilemmas and data privacy concerns can be addressed and AI benefits reach all segments of society can be ensured?

5. AI’s transformative prowess offers a novel perspective, fundamentally redefining India’s vision for the future and India must embrace this technology judiciously, leveraging its power for the greater good while safeguarding the values and ethics that define the nation. Comment.

6. In a time when achieving zero emissions is challenging for various sectors, agriculture’s role in enhancing soil carbon has become pivotal. Comment.

7. Migration issues have been politicized with an emphasis on state sovereignty and national interests, and addressing the issues of global governance from a holistic perspective is critical to ensuring better management of migration.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

  • When states are democratically governed according to law, there are no demagogues.
  • The future of India’s renewables strategy hangs on a delicate food-fuel trade-off; and a choice between intensifying hunger and reducing fossil fuel use.
  • Suspension of141 Opposition MPs violates Parliament’s sanctity — and robs the voice of millions they represent,
  • The telecommunications landscape has evolved dramatically since the Telegraph Act was first passed in the 19th century, and regulation and law-making of the Internet world need to comprehensively address all the issues that have come with this digital explosion.
  • The recurrence of caste-based discrimination, violence and exclusion in educational institutions points to an alarming systemic failure. It begins with an under-representation of backward communities in positions of authority.
  • The quality of our labour force has to keep pace with our developmental needs. And, this can only happen if our youth are well supported to achieve their aspirations and participate productively in the economy.
  • The “demographic dividend” can only be exploited if the labour force has the requisite skills to participate productively in the economy’s growth process.
  • India has immense potential to develop renewable energy and how it expands and scales up this capacity will be a critical barometer of its contribution to global climate change mitigation in the coming decade.
  • The Net Zero Emissions scenario by the International Energy Agency projects that to keep global temperature increases under 1.5 degrees, India would need to eliminate sub-critical coal facilities by 2030.
  • To contribute fairly to the global fight against the climate crisis, India’s emissions would need to not only meet but stay below the projections under current policies.
  • Our Constitution framers designed our national legislature as an institution that was meant for the government to transact its business.
  • It is evident that world leaders need to consider inter-generational equity when devising practical, firm and implementable solutions to meet the targets for limiting the temperature increase to 1.5°C.
  • India, being a prominent representative of the Global South, needs to think and act innovatively. It should take the lead by chalking out a format for south-south cooperation, addressing financial needs and helping each other in sharing and developing technologies.
  • Media should, not only inform and educate people, but also empower individuals, foster social change and ensure political stability.
  • India is now the world’s most populous country, which can lead to a larger workforce and higher economic growth. India must take advantage of this opportunity for higher economic development.
  • While the bill gives high priority to curtailing illegal phone taps, it unfortunately does not protect individual privacy if the ‘phone tapper’ happens to be the State.
  • Making institutional finance and wider crop insurance available to farmers, and introducing effective water management, prevention of crop failures and a minimum support price regime even for vegetables and fruits can bring peace.
  • The unregulated production of crops and the herd mentality of farmers have continued to create a mess with production and concomitant pricing of the produce.
  • In a world pulsating with technological prowess, the realm of artificial intelligence has transcended its commercial beginnings to emerge as a potent force for societal betterment.
  • Collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society is imperative to develop and implement robust AI policies that prioritize ethics, fairness, and inclusivity.
  • By harnessing the immense potential of AI in public health, healthcare, education, agriculture, social development, environmental conservation, efficient governance, and public expenditure management, India is poised to confront some of its most pressing challenges.
  • In a time when achieving zero emissions is challenging for various sectors, agriculture’s role in enhancing soil carbon has become pivotal.
  • Social media has influenced millions of people worldwide and become indispensable in their everyday lives. It has come to dominate our lives over the last decade.

ESSAY TOPIC

  • The economy is an owned subsidiary of ecology.

50-WORD TALK

  • Suspension of 92 opposition MPs for demanding a discussion on security breach in Parliament is akin to sacrilege in temple of democracy. Disruptions are bad but government’s refusal to discuss is worse. Accepting failures is a sign of strength, not weakness. Stifling opposition portrays Indian democracy in a bad light.
  • Election Commission wanting to vet NCERT social science textbooks, as reported by ThePrint, is glaring instance of institutional overreach. It’s beyond EC’s remit and competence to decide correctness or relevance of what’s taught to schoolchildren. The election watchdog had better focus on addressing growing scepticism about its impartiality and independence.

Things to Remember:

  • For prelims-related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
  • Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do map work (marking those areas in maps and exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers, etc. same applies to the national places.)
  • For economy-related news (banking, agriculture, etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related to various economic aspects, for example, if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing price rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates, etc.
  • For main exam-related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occur frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED.
  • Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment to your writing.


INCOMING CALL: ON THE INTRODUCTION OF THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS BILL, 2023

THE CONTEXT: Recently, the Telecommunications Bill, 2023 was introduced in the Lok Sabha after the President recommended its introduction under Article 117(1) of the Constitution of India in the Winter Session. This Bill aims to usher in comprehensive regulations for the telecommunications sector.

KEY PROVISIONS OF THE BILL:

Prior authorisation from the central government will be required to:

1. provide telecommunication services

2. establish, operate, maintain or expand telecommunications networks

3. possess radio equipment.

Existing licences will continue to be valid for the period of their grant, or for five years, where the period is not specified.

  • Assignment of spectrum:Spectrum will be assigned by auction, except for specified uses, where it will be allocated on an administrative basis.

These include purposes such as:

1. national security and defence

2. disaster management

3. weather forecasting

4. transport

5. satellite services such as DTH and satellite telephony

6. BSNL, MTNL, and public broadcasting services.

The central government may re-purpose or re-assign any frequency range.  The central government may permit sharing, trading, leasing, and surrender of spectrum.

  • Powers of interception and search: Messages or a class of messages between two or more persons may be intercepted, monitored, or blocked on certain grounds.  Such actions must be necessary or expedient in the interest of public safety or public emergency, and must be in the interest of specified grounds which include:

1. security of the state

2. prevention of incitement of offences

3. public order.

  • Powers to specify standards:  The central government may prescribe standards and assessments for telecom equipment, infrastructure, networks, and services.
  • Right of way:  Facility providers may seek a right of way over public or private property to establish telecom infrastructure.  Right of way must be provided on a non-discriminatory and non-exclusive basis to the extent possible.
  • Protection of users: The central government may provide for measures to protect users which include:

1. prior consent to receive specified messages such as advertising messages

2. creation of Do Not Disturb registers

3. a mechanism to allow users to report malware or specified messages.

Entities providing telecom services must establish an online mechanism for registration and redressal of grievances.

  • Appointments to TRAI:   The Bill amends the TRAI Act to also allow individuals with:

1. at least 30 years of professional experience to serve as the chairperson

2. at least 25 years of professional experience to serve as members.

  • Digital Bharat Nidhi: The Universal Service Obligation Fund has been established under the 1885 Act to provide for telecom services in underserved areas.  The Bill retains this provision, renames the fund as Digital Bharat Nidhi, and also allows its use for research and development.
  • Offences and penalties: The Bill specifies various criminal and civil offences.  Providing telecom services without authorisation or gaining unauthorised access to a telecom network or data, are punishable with imprisonment up to three years, a fine up to two crore rupees, or both.  Breaching terms and conditions of authorisation is punishable with a civil penalty up to five crore rupees.  Possessing unauthorised equipment, or using unauthorised network or service, is punishable with a penalty of up to ten lakh rupees.
  • Adjudication process: The central government will appoint an adjudicating officer to conduct inquiries and pass orders against civil offences under the Bill.  The officer must be of the rank of joint secretary and above.  Orders of the adjudicating officer may be appealed before the Designated Appeals Committee within 30 days.  Members of this Committee will be officers of the rank of at least Additional Secretary.   Appeals against the orders of the Committee, in connection to breach of terms and conditions, may be filed with TDSAT within 30 days.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE BILL:

  • Simplifying procedure for license: The Bill seeks to simplify the current licensing regime for telecom networks by moving towards an authorisation system. Currently, the telecom department issues more than 100 types of licences, registrations, and permissions, and the Bill seeks to club many of those in a single authorisation process. Licensing processes are set to be digitised, and telecom operators will have a new way of dealing with non-compliance with their licence terms. It will also have access to district and state-level authorities for permissions and dispute resolution when setting up their equipment and optical fiber networks on public and private properties.
  • Utilising spectrum: The Bill also allows the government to take back spectrum that is unutilised for insufficient reasons and also opens the door for sharing, trading, and leasing of spectrum. Entities will be able to surrender unused spectrum but will not receive payment from the government for it.
  • Settling disputes: The Bill introduces structured measure for settling of disputes efficiently. A tiered structure for settling disputes arising out of breach of terms and conditions involving an adjudicating officer, designated committee of appeals and the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) on top.
  • Consolidation: The introduction of the Telecommunications Bill, 2023 leads to consolidation of the laws for wireless networks and Internet service providers by keeping existing regulatory structures largely intact. It simplifies bureaucratic procedures such as applying for licences and permits for telecom operators.
  • Ease of doing business: The Bill streamlined regulatory landscape of industry bodies and promotes their ease of doing business, and could possibly give the much-needed regulatory stability and enables environment for the next phase of telecom expansion.

ISSUES:

  • Authorisation from the government: As per the new Bill, telecom services and networks will need authorisation from the government, unless it decides to exempt certain entities in public interest. There are concerns surrounding interception requirements for communication over telecom networks and whether the Bill excludes Internet-based communication platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram from its ambit.
  • Issue of surveillance: The expansive definition of telecom brings in its ambit a range of services, and state authority over them raises concerns of privacy and surveillance. These concerns are not merely academic considering past allegations of state-sponsored snooping.

The issues of surveillance reform and Internet shutdowns have massive implications, but the newly introduced Bill did not address these issues.

  • Privacy concern: Entities have been mandated to carry out biometric authentication of their users as a measure to curb fraud. However, this provision has raised concerns about the privacy of users.

THE WAY FORWARD

  • Stakeholder consultation: The government must address the concerns of stakeholders with an open mind, considering the vast powers that the text of the Bill grants. To further reassure the public of its clean motives, the government must conduct rule-making with absolute transparency and consultation.
  • Address privacy concerns: The Bill needs to address privacy concerns and simplify procedures regulation of telecommunication sector. The Bill tries to deal with spamming concerns, but its proposed solutions require additional compromises to privacy.
  • Balancing Security and Freedom: The Bill needs to acknowledge the need to safeguard press freedom with specific rules for accredited correspondents while ensuring security. The Bill’s provisions for government intervention in telecom services during emergencies highlight a focus on national security and public safety.
  • Aligning with current needs: There is a need to create a regulatory environment that aligns with current technological advancements and societal needs.

THE CONCLUSION:

The telecommunications landscape has evolved dramatically since the Telegraph Act was first passed in the 19th century. The newly introduced telecommunication Bill needs to comprehensively address all the issues that have come up with this digital explosion.

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION

Q.1 The aim of Information Technology Agreements (ITAs) is to lower all taxes and tariffs on information technology products by signatories to zero. What impact would such agreements have on India’s interests? (2014)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.1 The newly introduced Telecommunication Bill, 2023 seems to interfere with free online communication services which could lead to surveillance and privacy concerns. Examine with justification.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/incoming-call-on-the-introduction-of-the-telecommunications-bill-2023/article67654726.ece



Day-557 | Daily MCQs | UPSC Prelims | CURRENT DEVELOPMENTS

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  1. Question 1 of 5
    1. Question

    1. With reference to the Kampala Declaration on climate change, consider the following statements:
    1. It is a pioneering framework adopted by 48 African nations to manage climate-induced migration.
    2. It was co-hosted by the Governments of Kenya and Uganda with support from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Correct

    Answer: A
    Context: In August 2023, a total of 48 African countries have now agreed to adopt the Kampala Ministerial Declaration on Migration, Environment and Climate Change (KDMECC) to address the nexus of human mobility and climate change in the continent.
    Explanation:
    Statement 1 is correct: It is a pioneering framework adopted by 48 African nations to manage climate-induced migration.
    Statement 2 is incorrect: It was co-hosted by the Governments of Kenya and Uganda with support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
    Additional information:
    ● KDMECC was originally signed and agreed upon by 15 African states in Kampala, Uganda in July 2022.
    ● The Declaration is the first comprehensive, action-oriented framework led by Member States to address climate-induced mobility in a practical and effective manner.
    The KDMECC aims to address the challenges associated with climate-induced migration through several key objectives:
    ● Comprehensive Framework: Providing member states with a comprehensive framework to develop and implement policies and strategies addressing climate-induced migration.
    ● Leveraging Migration for Development: Encouraging the integration of migration into sustainable development strategies, ensuring it benefits both migrants and host communities.
    ● Inclusivity: Prioritizing the voices of vulnerable groups, including youth, women, and those in disadvantaged situations, to ensure their needs and concerns are central to the response.

    Incorrect

    Answer: A
    Context: In August 2023, a total of 48 African countries have now agreed to adopt the Kampala Ministerial Declaration on Migration, Environment and Climate Change (KDMECC) to address the nexus of human mobility and climate change in the continent.
    Explanation:
    Statement 1 is correct: It is a pioneering framework adopted by 48 African nations to manage climate-induced migration.
    Statement 2 is incorrect: It was co-hosted by the Governments of Kenya and Uganda with support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
    Additional information:
    ● KDMECC was originally signed and agreed upon by 15 African states in Kampala, Uganda in July 2022.
    ● The Declaration is the first comprehensive, action-oriented framework led by Member States to address climate-induced mobility in a practical and effective manner.
    The KDMECC aims to address the challenges associated with climate-induced migration through several key objectives:
    ● Comprehensive Framework: Providing member states with a comprehensive framework to develop and implement policies and strategies addressing climate-induced migration.
    ● Leveraging Migration for Development: Encouraging the integration of migration into sustainable development strategies, ensuring it benefits both migrants and host communities.
    ● Inclusivity: Prioritizing the voices of vulnerable groups, including youth, women, and those in disadvantaged situations, to ensure their needs and concerns are central to the response.

  2. Question 2 of 5
    2. Question

    2. With reference to the term ‘Medicane’, seen in news, consider the following statements:
    1. Medicanes are temperate cyclones originating in mediterranean region.
    2. Like tropical cyclones, Medicanes form in hot conditions at the end of summer.
    3. They are also formed over the Black Sea.
    How many of the statements given above are correct?

    Correct

    Answer: B
    Context: The flash flood that has killed thousands of people in Libya in September 2023 followed a “medicane”, a rare but destructive weather phenomenon that scientists believe will intensify in a warming world.
    Explanation:
    Statement 1 is incorrect: Medicanes are tropical cyclones originating in the Mediterranean region.
    Mediterranean cyclone or hurricane which is so-called Medicane are not rare phenomenon. Such large storms happen in the Mediterranean region every few years.
    Statement 2 is correct: Like tropical cyclones, medicanes form in hot conditions at the end of summer.
    Statement 3 is correct: Medicanes used to occur only in the Mediterranean Sea, but in the last two decades they have been formed over the Black Sea too.
    Additional information:
    ● Mediterranean tropical-like cyclones are commonly known as ‘Medicanes’ while a rapidly rotating storm system with a low-pressure centre, a closed low-level atmospheric circulation with strong winds and a spiral arrangement of thunderstorms are called ‘Hurricanes’.
    ● Medicanes are not formally classified as cyclones and are not monitored by any agency.
    ● National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Hellenic National Meteorological Service are the governing agencies for Medicanes.
    ● The cyclones in the Mediterranean Sea do not form easily because it is dry but due to SST (sea surface temperature), it has caused floods in Italy, Spain and France.

    Incorrect

    Answer: B
    Context: The flash flood that has killed thousands of people in Libya in September 2023 followed a “medicane”, a rare but destructive weather phenomenon that scientists believe will intensify in a warming world.
    Explanation:
    Statement 1 is incorrect: Medicanes are tropical cyclones originating in the Mediterranean region.
    Mediterranean cyclone or hurricane which is so-called Medicane are not rare phenomenon. Such large storms happen in the Mediterranean region every few years.
    Statement 2 is correct: Like tropical cyclones, medicanes form in hot conditions at the end of summer.
    Statement 3 is correct: Medicanes used to occur only in the Mediterranean Sea, but in the last two decades they have been formed over the Black Sea too.
    Additional information:
    ● Mediterranean tropical-like cyclones are commonly known as ‘Medicanes’ while a rapidly rotating storm system with a low-pressure centre, a closed low-level atmospheric circulation with strong winds and a spiral arrangement of thunderstorms are called ‘Hurricanes’.
    ● Medicanes are not formally classified as cyclones and are not monitored by any agency.
    ● National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Hellenic National Meteorological Service are the governing agencies for Medicanes.
    ● The cyclones in the Mediterranean Sea do not form easily because it is dry but due to SST (sea surface temperature), it has caused floods in Italy, Spain and France.

  3. Question 3 of 5
    3. Question

    3. Often seen in news, the term ‘Atlantic Declaration’ refers to:

    Correct

    Answer: C
    Context: The United Kingdom and the United States (US) President signed “The Atlantic Declaration: A Framework for a Twenty-First Century US-UK Economic Partnership” during the latter’s visit to Washington in June 2023.
    Explanation:
    ● Declared as the first of its kind, the declaration and its action plans are expected to promote a “new type of innovative partnership” to cover all areas of cooperation including technology, economy and trade.
    ● While deepening the trade and investment relations, the declaration is also expected to strengthen the UK-US cooperation in sectors like defence, health, space, and science.
    ● The new declaration highlights that the nature of national security is changing with economics, and it is becoming more intertwined.
    ● The US and the UK are facing new international challenges including from “authoritarian states” such as China and Russia, along with disruptive technologies, non-state actions and transnational issues like climate change.
    ● To deal with the emerging challenges, both countries have worked together to strengthen their resilience in trade and technology; and cooperated to expand the scope of their defence, security, and intelligence relations.

    Incorrect

    Answer: C
    Context: The United Kingdom and the United States (US) President signed “The Atlantic Declaration: A Framework for a Twenty-First Century US-UK Economic Partnership” during the latter’s visit to Washington in June 2023.
    Explanation:
    ● Declared as the first of its kind, the declaration and its action plans are expected to promote a “new type of innovative partnership” to cover all areas of cooperation including technology, economy and trade.
    ● While deepening the trade and investment relations, the declaration is also expected to strengthen the UK-US cooperation in sectors like defence, health, space, and science.
    ● The new declaration highlights that the nature of national security is changing with economics, and it is becoming more intertwined.
    ● The US and the UK are facing new international challenges including from “authoritarian states” such as China and Russia, along with disruptive technologies, non-state actions and transnational issues like climate change.
    ● To deal with the emerging challenges, both countries have worked together to strengthen their resilience in trade and technology; and cooperated to expand the scope of their defence, security, and intelligence relations.

  4. Question 4 of 5
    4. Question

    4. Consider the following statements regarding the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI):
    1. It has a special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations.
    2. Its governing board meets annually to provide strategic leadership, stewardship, and continuity of INTOSAI activities.
    3. The CAG of India is a member of the Governing Board of the INTOSAI.
    How many of the statements given above are correct?

    Correct

    Answer: C
    Context: CAG of India inaugurated the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions’s (INTOSAI) 15th Knowledge Sharing Committee meeting at Abu Dhabi.
    Explanation:
    Statement 1 is correct: It has special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations.
    Statement 2 is correct: The INTOSAI Governing Board meets annually to provide strategic leadership, stewardship, and continuity of INTOSAI activities.
    Statement 3 is correct: The CAG of India is a member of the Governing Board of the INTOSAI.
    Additional information:
    ● The International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI) is an intergovernmental organization whose members are supreme audit institutions.
    ● Nearly every supreme audit institution in the world is a member of INTOSAI. Depending on the type of system used in their home country, the members of INTOSAI may be variously titled the Chief Financial Controller, the Office of the Comptroller General, the Office of the Auditor General, the Court of Accounts, or the Board of Audit.
    ● INTOSAI holds a triennial conference entitled the International Congress of Supreme Audit Institutions (INCOSAI).
    ● It publishes the quarterly International Journal of Government Auditing and publishes guidelines and international standards on auditing.

    Incorrect

    Answer: C
    Context: CAG of India inaugurated the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions’s (INTOSAI) 15th Knowledge Sharing Committee meeting at Abu Dhabi.
    Explanation:
    Statement 1 is correct: It has special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the United Nations.
    Statement 2 is correct: The INTOSAI Governing Board meets annually to provide strategic leadership, stewardship, and continuity of INTOSAI activities.
    Statement 3 is correct: The CAG of India is a member of the Governing Board of the INTOSAI.
    Additional information:
    ● The International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI) is an intergovernmental organization whose members are supreme audit institutions.
    ● Nearly every supreme audit institution in the world is a member of INTOSAI. Depending on the type of system used in their home country, the members of INTOSAI may be variously titled the Chief Financial Controller, the Office of the Comptroller General, the Office of the Auditor General, the Court of Accounts, or the Board of Audit.
    ● INTOSAI holds a triennial conference entitled the International Congress of Supreme Audit Institutions (INCOSAI).
    ● It publishes the quarterly International Journal of Government Auditing and publishes guidelines and international standards on auditing.

  5. Question 5 of 5
    5. Question

    5. Consider the following statements:
    1. India has notified a greater number of critical minerals than the USA to drive its clean energy push.
    2. The Geological Survey of India has been given the responsibility to periodically update the list of critical minerals for India.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Correct

    Answer: D
    Context: The Indian government recently listed 30 minerals, including nickel, titanium, vanadium and tungsten as critical to drive its clean energy push.
    Explanation:
    Statement 1 is incorrect: India has notified 30 critical minerals. The US has declared 50 minerals critical in light of their role in national security or economic development. Japan has identified a set of 31 minerals as critical for their economy. The UK considers 18 minerals critical, EU (34) and Canada (31).
    Statement 2 is incorrect: Creation of Centre of Excellence for Critical Minerals (CECM) in the Ministry of Mines is recommended by the Expert Committee of Ministry of Mines. CECM has the responsibility to periodically update the list of critical minerals for India and notify the critical mineral strategy from time to time.
    Statement 3 is correct:
    Additional information:
    ● Expert Committe under Ministry of Mines has identified a set of 30 critical minerals for India.
    ● These are Antimony, Beryllium, Bismuth, Cobalt, Copper, Gallium, Germanium, Graphite, Hafnium, Indium, Lithium, Molybdenum, Niobium, Nickel, PGE, Phosphorous, Potash, REE, Rhenium, Silicon, Strontium, Tantalum, Tellurium, Tin, Titanium, Tungsten, Vanadium, Zirconium, Selenium and Cadmium.
    ● Top Producers: Chile, Indonesia, Congo, China, Australia and South Africa.

    Incorrect

    Answer: D
    Context: The Indian government recently listed 30 minerals, including nickel, titanium, vanadium and tungsten as critical to drive its clean energy push.
    Explanation:
    Statement 1 is incorrect: India has notified 30 critical minerals. The US has declared 50 minerals critical in light of their role in national security or economic development. Japan has identified a set of 31 minerals as critical for their economy. The UK considers 18 minerals critical, EU (34) and Canada (31).
    Statement 2 is incorrect: Creation of Centre of Excellence for Critical Minerals (CECM) in the Ministry of Mines is recommended by the Expert Committee of Ministry of Mines. CECM has the responsibility to periodically update the list of critical minerals for India and notify the critical mineral strategy from time to time.
    Statement 3 is correct:
    Additional information:
    ● Expert Committe under Ministry of Mines has identified a set of 30 critical minerals for India.
    ● These are Antimony, Beryllium, Bismuth, Cobalt, Copper, Gallium, Germanium, Graphite, Hafnium, Indium, Lithium, Molybdenum, Niobium, Nickel, PGE, Phosphorous, Potash, REE, Rhenium, Silicon, Strontium, Tantalum, Tellurium, Tin, Titanium, Tungsten, Vanadium, Zirconium, Selenium and Cadmium.
    ● Top Producers: Chile, Indonesia, Congo, China, Australia and South Africa.

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INDIA’S AKASH MISSILE SYSTEM: DEMONSTRATING ENHANCED CAPABILITIES

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) announced a significant achievement in India’s defence capabilities, revealing the successful demonstration of the Akash missile system’s capability to engage four aerial targets simultaneously.

EXPLANATION:

  • This feat was accomplished at a range of 25 kilometers, marking a global first in the realm of missile technology.

Unprecedented Capability

  • India’s successful demonstration positions it as the first country globally to achieve such a capability, utilizing a single firing unit to engage multiple aerial targets.
  • The DRDO highlighted this achievement as a milestone, showcasing India’s advancement in missile technology and command guidance systems.

Test Conduct and Military Exercise

  • The Indian Air Force (IAF), in collaboration with the DRDO, conducted the test, which took place during the ‘Astrashakti’ military exercise on December 12.
  • The exercise was specifically organized by the Indian Air Force to showcase and validate various military capabilities.

Akash Missile System: Key Features

  • The Akash missile system, designed for short-range surface-to-air defense, boasts a range of up to 25 kilometers.
  • Its primary function involves safeguarding vulnerable areas and critical points from potential air attacks, making it a crucial component of India’s defense arsenal.

Export of Indian Defence Platforms

  • India’s increasing prowess in defense technology is evident in its export of key platforms to friendly foreign nations.
  • Alongside the Akash missile system, other notable defense platforms exported by India include the Dornier-228 aircraft, 155 mm Advanced Towed Artillery Guns (ATAGs), Brahmos missiles, mine-protected vehicles, armored vehicles, ammunition, thermal imagers, avionics components, and small arms.

Significance of the Akash Missile System

  • The successful demonstration of the Akash missile system’s enhanced capability underlines India’s commitment to advancing indigenous defense technologies.
  • The system’s capacity to engage multiple aerial targets simultaneously significantly bolsters India’s defense preparedness and strengthens its position as a key player in the global defense arena.

Implications for India’s Defense Strategy

  • The Akash missile system’s successful test not only showcases technological advancements but also signifies India’s strategic focus on fortifying its defense mechanisms.
  • With increased capabilities in missile technology and air defense systems, India aims to bolster its defense infrastructure and enhance its ability to counter potential threats effectively.

AKASH MISSILE SYSTEM:

  • The Akash (sky) is a mid-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system built by India’s state-owned Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
  • The missile was developed under the integrated guided-missile development programme (IGMDP).
  • The programme also involved the development of the Nag, Agni and Trishul missiles, as well as the Prithvi ballistic missile.
  • Two versions of the missile have been built for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Army (IA).
  • The first batch of the Akash missiles was inducted by the IA in May 2015. The first Akash missile was delivered to the IAF in March 2012. The missile was formally inducted into the IAF in July 2015.

Conclusion

  • India’s achievement in demonstrating the Akash missile system’s capability to engage multiple aerial targets simultaneously marks a significant milestone in its defense capabilities.
  • The successful test not only highlights technological prowess but also underscores India’s commitment to advancing indigenous defense systems and contributing to global defense solutions.

SOURCE: https://www.business-standard.com/industry/news/india-s-akash-missile-engages-four-targets-at-once-at-25km-a-global-first-123121700656_1.html



DECREASE IN CAG AUDITS TABLED IN PARLIAMENT: TRENDS AND IMPLICATIONS

TAG: GS 2: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

THE CONTEXT: In 2023, only 18 audits of the Union government were tabled in Parliament by the CAG, marking a substantial decrease from previous years.

EXPLANATION:

  • Between 2019 and 2023, the average number of reports presented annually stood at 22, contrasting sharply with an average of 40 reports per year from 2014 to 2018.
  • The pinnacle was in 2015, with 53 reports, but since then, the number has been consistently lower, with four of the last six years witnessing 20 or fewer reports being tabled.
  • The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India is responsible for conducting audits of the Union government’s financial transactions and presenting reports to Parliament for scrutiny and accountability.
  • However, recent trends indicate a notable decline in the number of CAG audits tabled in Parliament, raising concerns about transparency and accountability in governance.

Factors Contributing to the Decline

  • The reduction in the number of reports coincides with multiple factors, notably the downsizing of staff strength within the CAG and budgetary constraints faced by the Indian Audit and Accounts Department.
  • In 2023-24, the allocation to this department represented a mere 0.13% of the Union Budget, signifying a severe reduction in financial support for conducting audits and maintaining operational capabilities.

Budget Cuts and Staffing Challenges

  • Budgetary constraints have posed significant challenges for the CAG, impacting its ability to carry out comprehensive audits effectively.
  • The decline in staff strength and financial resources has likely hindered the capacity of the CAG to conduct thorough examinations of government expenditure, leading to a decrease in the number of audits produced and tabled for parliamentary scrutiny.

Implications for Transparency and Accountability

  • The diminishing number of CAG audits tabled in Parliament raises concerns regarding transparency and accountability in governance.
  • These reports serve as critical tools for assessing the government’s financial management, identifying inefficiencies or irregularities, and ensuring accountability to taxpayers and citizens.

Urgency for Addressing the Issue

  • The decline in the presentation of audit reports emphasizes the urgency for addressing the resource constraints faced by the CAG.
  • Adequate funding and adequate staffing are essential to enable the CAG to fulfill its mandate effectively, ensuring robust oversight of government spending and operations.

Need for Reinforcement of Oversight Mechanisms

  • Efforts should be directed toward reinforcing oversight mechanisms, enhancing the capacity of the CAG to conduct rigorous audits, and facilitating the presentation of comprehensive reports to Parliament.
  • This reinforcement is vital for upholding transparency, promoting accountability, and fostering good governance practices within the government.

Comptroller and Auditor-General of India (CAG):

  • CAG is an independent authority under the Constitution of India.
  • He is the head of the Indian audit & account department and chief Guardian of Public purse.
  • It is the institution through which the accountability of the government and other public authorities (all those who spend public funds) to Parliament and State Legislatures and through them to the people is ensured.

Conclusion

  • The reduction in CAG audits tabled in Parliament, attributed to budgetary limitations and staffing challenges, underscores the importance of reinforcing the CAG’s capabilities.
  • Strengthening oversight mechanisms and providing adequate resources to the CAG are essential steps toward ensuring effective scrutiny of government finances and operations, thereby upholding transparency and accountability in governance.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/2023-12-19/th_chennai/articleGIBC5O39O-5232531.ece



NOMA: WHO’S RECOGNITION OF A NEGLECTED DISEASE

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Noma, also known as cancrum oris or gangrenous stomatitis, has been officially recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a neglected tropical disease (NTD).

EXPLANATION:

  • This severe gangrenous disease affects the mouth and face, exhibiting an alarming mortality rate of approximately 90%. (Gangrenous: Decaying of a part of body because the blood has stopped flowing there.)
  • It is closely associated with extreme poverty, malnutrition, and poor sanitation and oral hygiene, further exacerbating its impact on vulnerable communities.

Characteristics and Impact

  • Primarily affecting children between the ages of 2-6 years, Noma displays a severe lack of awareness, with unreliable estimates of cases due to its occurrence in marginalized populations.
  • It is named after the Greek word “nomē,” signifying “to devour,” as it progressively consumes facial tissues and bones if left untreated.

Causes and Risk Factors

  • The disease is linked to various risk factors, including poor oral hygiene, malnutrition, weakened immune systems, infections, and extreme poverty.
  • Although not contagious, Noma preys on individuals with compromised immune defenses.
  • It typically initiates with gum inflammation, likely caused by bacteria present in the mouth.

Geographical Prevalence and Historical Context

  • Noma predominantly affects children in developing nations, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where it is primarily observed among impoverished children aged 3-10 years.
  • Historical studies indicate that the disease may result from oral contamination by specific bacteria and microbial combinations.

Medical Implications and Challenges

  • Early detection is crucial due to Noma’s high mortality rate.
  • Basic hygiene, antibiotics, and nutritional support can significantly slow its spread.
  • The disease often originates as an ulcer on the mucous membrane, following illnesses like measles.

Consequences and Survivorship

  • Survivors of Noma face profound consequences, including severe facial disfigurement, jaw muscle spasms, oral incontinence, and speech impairments.
  • Effective treatments such as sulphonamides, penicillin, and surgical interventions remain inaccessible to many due to economic disparities.

Historical Perspective and Eradication Efforts

  • Noma was prevalent in earlier centuries but diminished in the Western world with improved nutrition and disease prevention measures.
  • Its occurrence in concentration camps during World War II highlights its historical impact.

WHO’s Recognition and Future Prospects

  • The inclusion of Noma in WHO’s list of neglected tropical diseases signifies a crucial step toward addressing this overlooked health challenge.
  • Médecins Sans Frontières / Doctors Without Borders emphasizes the need for increased attention and resources to combat Noma.
  • The WHO aims to raise global awareness, stimulate research, secure funding, and implement comprehensive strategies to control the disease.

Conclusion and Future Endeavours

  • Recognition of Noma as an NTD seeks to leverage global attention and multidisciplinary approaches to combat the disease.
  • Efforts targeting underserved populations are critical, contributing not only to disease control but also to achieving universal health coverage.
  • The WHO’s acknowledgment emphasizes the urgency of addressing Noma and underscores the need for collaborative, multifaceted interventions to mitigate its devastating impact on vulnerable communities.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/health/what-is-noma-the-latest-addition-to-who-s-list-of-neglected-tropical-diseases-93439