TAG: GS 2: POLITY

THE CONTEXT: The forthcoming year, 2024, holds a significant series of hearings in the Supreme Court, with a focus on various crucial matters to be deliberated upon by several seven-judge Constitution Benches.

EXPLANATION:

• These crucial issues encompass diverse legal concerns and constitutional interpretations pivotal to India’s legal landscape.
• The roster of cases includes pivotal topics such as the passage of laws as Money Bills, sub-classification of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, the intersection between legislative privilege breach and citizens’ fundamental rights, among others.

Scheduled Hearings:

• Money Bills and Enforcement Directorate Powers:
  • A significant case involves amendments in the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) through Money Bills, granting extensive powers to the Enforcement Directorate.
  • The court had upheld the legality of these amendments but referred the question of passing them as Money Bills to a seven-judge Bench, assessing their constitutional validity concerning Article 110 of the Constitution.
• Sub-Classification of SCs/STs:
  • Another critical issue pertains to the sub-classification of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
  • Differing views by different benches necessitate a seven-judge Bench to reconcile the conflict and address the constitutional implications of allowing states to sub-classify these communities.
• Legislature’s Privilege and Fundamental Rights:
  • Exploring the interplay between legislative privilege under Article 194 and the protection of fundamental rights, a case involving the authority of the legislature’s privilege to supersede fundamental rights is set for deliberation.

Timeline of Hearings

• The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear four out of six cases in January 2024.
• Chief Justice of India will head the seven-judge Bench for these hearings, with the remaining cases slated for March.

Significance of Cases

• These cases hold substantial constitutional implications.
• The decision on Money Bills’ passage, SC/ST sub-classification, and the clash between legislative privileges and fundamental rights will shape the legal landscape and impact governance and societal equality.

Background

• The legal issues arose from various judgments, conflicts between earlier rulings, and the need for clarity and uniformity in constitutional interpretations.
• These cases highlight conflicting precedents and the necessity for cohesive legal guidelines.

Conclusion

• The upcoming Supreme Court hearings in 2024 are poised to address critical constitutional and legal dilemmas.
• It will ensure the resolution of conflicting interpretations and providing vital clarity on significant issues impacting governance, societal rights, and constitutional validity.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/2024-will-see-a-flurry-of-seven-judge-benches-hearing-a-series-of-crucial-issues-in-sc/article67666804.ece

TAG: GS 2: GOVERNANCE

THE CONTEXT: The Central government is considering the establishment of a health sector regulator to streamline and oversee both private and government health insurance schemes.

EXPLANATION:

• This move aims to enhance access to affordable insurance coverage for all citizens.
• The Ministries of Finance and Health are engaging in preliminary discussions regarding the necessity and potential implementation of such a regulatory body.

Need for a Unified Regulator

• Several doctors’ associations advocate for the consolidation of private and government insurance schemes under a single regulator.
• This initiative intends to regulate prominent government schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, the Central Government Health Scheme, Employees’ State Insurance Corporation, etc.

Addressing Healthcare Accessibility

• Director-General of the Association of Healthcare Providers India (AHPI) emphasizes the necessity of restructuring government insurance schemes.
• The objective is to encourage more tertiary care hospitals to participate in these schemes, thereby enabling beneficiaries to access quality healthcare services.

Objective of ‘Insurance for All by 2047’

• Aligned with the IRDAI Vision 2047, the government’s ambition is to achieve ‘Insurance for All by 2047.’
• This comprehensive goal entails ensuring suitable life, health, and property insurance coverage for every citizen, accompanied by appropriate insurance solutions for enterprises.

Role of the Proposed Regulator

• Advocates have been advocating for an independent regulatory agency responsible for restructuring existing insurance schemes.
• The agency would be tasked with setting scientifically based reimbursement rates for various medical procedures.
• This effort aims to incentivize more hospitals to participate in these schemes, enabling expanded access to tertiary care services for beneficiaries.

Impact and Challenges

• Without the restructuring and regulation of reimbursement rates, many hospitals might hesitate to join government insurance schemes.
• This hesitation could potentially restrict beneficiaries’ access to crucial tertiary care services.
• Therefore, the proposed regulator is anticipated to address these challenges and ensure a more inclusive and efficient healthcare system.

Conclusion

• The establishment of a health sector regulator represents a significant step towards harmonizing and regulating insurance schemes in India.
• By unifying oversight under a single authority, the aim is to enhance accessibility, affordability, and inclusivity in healthcare services, particularly in providing tertiary care to a larger portion of the population.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/centre-exploring-one-stop-health-sector-regulator/article67666460.ece/amp/

TAG: GS 3: ECONOMY

THE CONTEXT: Angola has decided to exit the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), raising concerns about OPEC’s ability to manage global oil supplies, increased US crude output, and geopolitical tensions impacting oil shipping routes.

EXPLANATION:

• Angola, an oil-producing nation, announced its departure from OPEC, citing that its membership in the organization did not serve its interests.
• Angola’s decision raises questions about the effectiveness of OPEC’s strategies in stabilizing and influencing oil prices.
• Angola’s production stands at about 1.1 million barrels per day, a fraction compared to OPEC’s total output of 28 million barrels per day.

Impact on OPEC’s Cohesion and Direction

• Despite being one of the smaller producers in OPEC, Angola’s exit prompts concerns about the unity and direction of the organization.
• While its departure may not significantly affect global oil supplies due to its relatively smaller output, it highlights potential internal disagreements within OPEC regarding production quotas and strategies to manage oil prices.

OPEC’s Efforts to Support Oil Prices

• OPEC, led by Saudi Arabia, has been attempting to stabilize oil prices by implementing production cuts.
• However, challenges persist as non-OPEC producers, such as the United States, have increased their output, filling the supply gap and impacting OPEC’s ability to control prices.

Increased US Crude Output

• The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported a record rise in US crude oil output to 13.3 million barrels per day.
• This surge in production, reaching a new high, contributes to global oil market dynamics and may counterbalance OPEC’s efforts to limit supply and raise prices.

Geopolitical Tensions and Oil Shipping Routes

• Recent attacks by Yemeni Houthi militants on vessels bound for Israeli ports have caused disruptions in global trade by forcing major maritime carriers to avoid the Red Sea.
• These disruptions raise concerns about potential supply diversions and interruptions due to geopolitical tensions, impacting oil shipping routes.

Israel-Hamas Conflict

• The conflict between Israel and Hamas has escalated, affecting truce talks and potentially causing further disruptions in the region.
• These geopolitical tensions add uncertainty to oil markets due to their potential to disrupt supply chains and shipping routes in the Middle East.

Conclusion:

• The confluence of events, including Angola’s exit from OPEC, increased US crude output, and geopolitical tensions impacting shipping routes due to conflicts in the Middle East, contributes to uncertainties in global oil markets.
• These factors collectively influence oil prices and market stability, challenging OPEC’s efforts to manage supplies and stabilize prices amid a complex geopolitical landscape.

SOURCE: https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/markets/oil-falls-more-than-1-as-angola-decides-to-exit-opec-11940551.html

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: China has recently implemented stringent export restrictions on technologies associated with rare-earth magnets, signalling a response to efforts by countries like the U.S. and Japan to reduce dependence on Chinese rare-earth suppliers.

EXPLANATION:

• These restrictions encompass technologies crucial for mining, refining, and processing rare-earth metals.

Nature of the Ban

• Expanded Restrictions
  • The ban covers technologies for producing rare-earth magnets, in addition to ore mining, selection, refining, and processes related to extraction, separation, and alloy production.
  • This move indicates China’s intent to tighten control over critical industrial materials.
• Impact on Global Supply Chains
  • The global reliance on China for rare-earth elements has been significant, with China’s share of global rare-earth output decreasing to around 70% from 90% a decade earlier.
  • The restrictions pose challenges for countries like the U.S. and Japan, both significant consumers of rare-earth magnets in high-tech industries.

International Implications

• Response to Economic Security Concerns
  • The U.S. and other nations have been striving to establish independent supply chains to reduce reliance on China for strategic resources.
  • China’s dominance in rare-earth processing has raised concerns about economic security, prompting moves by other countries to diversify their sources.
• Rivalry between U.S. and China
  • The U.S. has endeavoured to develop its own rare-earth mines, yet China still maintains supremacy in refining and processing.
  • This control over the supply chain has positioned China as a critical player, triggering competition and technological advancements in high-tech fields between the U.S. and China.

Challenges and Opportunities

• Global Supply Diversification
  • While efforts are underway to establish alternative sources for rare-earth metals, challenges persist.
  • Countries lack adequate refining facilities due to environmental concerns, and China’s technological expertise in processing remains unmatched.
• Self-Sufficiency Initiatives
  • Countries like the U.S. have prioritized initiatives to reduce dependence on Chinese rare-earth processing.
  • However, achieving self-sufficiency requires substantial investments in refining technologies and infrastructure.

Chinese Government’s Strategy

• Tightening Control Over Resources
  • China’s recent measures, including advanced approval requirements for certain exports and monitoring of exported materials, underscore the government’s strategic control over key resources in high-tech sectors.
• Focus on Dominance in High-Tech Fields
  • The trimmed list of technology export curbs, coupled with more detailed technical requirements, reflects the competition between the U.S. and China for dominance in critical high-tech sectors, necessitating tighter controls over rare-earth technologies.

Conclusion

• China’s ban on rare-earth magnet technologies and associated export restrictions signals a significant move in the global geopolitical landscape.
• The increased competition between major players like the U.S., Japan, and China underscores the importance of securing independent supply chains for rare-earth metals, crucial for various high-tech industries.
• Achieving self-sufficiency in rare-earth processing remains a challenge, necessitating strategic investments and collaborative efforts among nations to ensure economic stability and technological advancement.

SOURCE: https://asia.nikkei.com/Economy/Trade/China-bans-exports-of-rare-earth-magnet-technologies#:~:text=China’s%20share%20of%20global%20rare,still%20dominates%20refining%20and%20processing

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/

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/

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TAG: GS 3: ECONOMY

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

EXPLANATION:

• The Central Goods and Services Tax (Second Amendment) Bill, 2023 was introduced in Lok Sabha on December 13, 2023.
• It amends the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Act, 2017.
• The Act provides for the levy and collection of CGST on the intra-state supply of goods and services.

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

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

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 14^TH 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

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

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

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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

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:

• It was led by an international team of researchers and asserts that the ocean can store approximately 20% more carbon than previously estimated by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)

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

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

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:

• It repeals the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933, and the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1950.  It also amends the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) Act, 1997.
• Authorisation for telecom-related activities:  

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

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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

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

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

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: The Raman Research Institute (RRI) is set to embark on its first winter Indian expedition to the Arctic region, specifically focusing on examining the radio frequency environment in the Svalbard region.

EXPLANATION:

• This landmark initiative aims to provide insights into the suitability of this Arctic location for conducting precise astronomy measurements, particularly in the field of radio astronomy.

Purpose and Objectives

• The primary goal of this scientific endeavour is to characterize the radio frequency environment in the Svalbard region.
• Researchers from RRI will assess the potential of this uniquely positioned area for carrying out precision astronomy measurements.
• The survey’s findings are anticipated to aid astronomers in evaluating the site’s suitability for deploying low-frequency radio telescopes, enabling them to conduct precise astronomical observations.

RRI’s Contribution and Research Focus

• RRI’s team from the Electronics Engineering Group, will spearhead the examination of the radio frequency environment in Svalbard.
• This survey, a first of its kind at this site, holds promise in potentially paving the way for the establishment of low-frequency radio telescopes in the region.
• The expedition, supported by the Ministry of Earth Sciences and coordinated by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Goa, is scheduled to take place from December 19, 2023, to January 15, 2024.

Significance of the Survey

• RRI’s focus extends beyond conventional astronomical observations.
• It aims to study the faint cosmological signals emitted from hydrogen during the Cosmic Dawn and the Epoch of Reionization.
• These critical phases in the universe’s early evolution lack substantial observations due to their faintness and interference from various radio frequency sources, including urban infrastructures like cell phone towers and FM/television stations.

SARAS Experiment and Objectives

• The RRI team has been engaged in the development of the Shaped Antenna measurement of the background Radio Spectrum (SARAS) series of experiments for nearly a decade.
• SARAS seeks to detect the faint cosmological 21-cm signal from the Cosmic Dawn and the Epoch of Reionization, shedding light on the universe’s early stages.

Importance of Radio-Quiet Locations

• The success of SARAS experiments in India, conducted in radio-quiet locations like Ladakh and western Karnataka, underscores the significance of such environments for precision cosmological studies.
• However, the expansion of urbanization has limited these locations, necessitating the exploration of new, radio-quiet regions like Svalbard for deploying sensitive radio telescopes.

Technical Approach

• The expedition will utilize sensitive electronic instruments to analyse radio signals in the frequency range of 5 – 500 megahertz (MHz) at accessible sites near Himadri, India’s research station in the Arctic.
• The outcomes will provide critical insights into the radio quietness of the Arctic location, determining its suitability for the deployment of the SARAS radio telescope.
• It is anticipated that this survey will furnish essential information regarding the radio quietness of the Svalbard location, pivotal for deploying sensitive radio telescopes and conducting precise astronomical observations.

Conclusion

• RRI’s participation in the first winter Indian expedition to the Arctic signifies a crucial step in the pursuit of understanding the universe’s early stages.
• Through characterizing the radio frequency environment in the Arctic region, RRI aims to contribute significantly to the advancement of precision astronomy and cosmological studies, potentially unlocking new avenues for groundbreaking discoveries in the field.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/rri-raman-research-institute-bengaluru-to-participate-in-first-winter-indian-expedition-to-arctic-region/article67650029.ece

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: mRNA which has the capability to act as a versatile and customizable tool in protein production has revolutionized medicine.

EXPLANATION:

• From vaccines to potential therapies for various diseases, its adaptability, ease of customization, and potential for personalized treatments present a promising frontier in healthcare.
• It marks a paradigm shift toward more effective, tailored, and potentially low-risk treatments for a myriad of conditions.

Understanding mRNA and Its Role in Cells

• DNA and Protein Production:
  • DNA acts like a comprehensive cookbook containing various recipes (genes) to produce proteins, crucial for normal cellular functions.
  • When cells need to produce a protein, they don’t directly utilize the DNA; instead, they create a messenger RNA (mRNA), serving as a copy of the recipe.
  • This mRNA carries the instructions (coded in a language made of four nucleotide building blocks – A, U, C, G) necessary for protein synthesis.
  • Cells dedicate a significant amount of energy to maintain and utilize these proteins, recognizing, employing, and subsequently degrading mRNA once its function is fulfilled.
• Mutations and Disease:
  • Mutations in DNA can distort or eliminate specific mRNA recipes, resulting in errors in critical proteins, thereby causing diseases or disorders.

The Potential of mRNA as Medicine

• Customization:
  • Scientists can easily craft mRNA recipes for various proteins, either by creating entirely new recipes or modifying existing ones to produce slight protein variations, catering to individual patient needs.
• Scalability:
  • The process of producing mRNA in laboratories is scalable.
  • Once scientists understand the basic recipe creation, they can generate numerous variations efficiently.
• Adaptability and Adjustability:
  • mRNA drugs offer flexibility in dosing as they’re not permanent within cells, allowing for easy alterations in dosage according to the patient’s requirements.

mRNA Vaccines: Revolutionizing Disease Prevention

• COVID-19 Vaccines and Beyond:
  • The mRNA vaccines for COVID-19, such as those by Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech, marked a groundbreaking milestone.
  • These vaccines instruct cells to produce a spike protein from the virus, prompting the immune system to recognize and create antibodies against it.
  • The adaptability of mRNA allowed for swift adjustments in vaccine recipes to combat new viral variants.
• Expanding Vaccine Applications:
  • Ongoing clinical trials explore mRNA-based vaccines for various illnesses like seasonal flu, herpes, respiratory syncytial virus, norovirus, Lyme disease, Zika, and shingles.

mRNA Therapies in Disease Treatment

• Targeting Cancer:
  • mRNA treatments for cancer function akin to vaccines, training the immune system to identify and attack cancer cells.
  • These treatments involve mRNA recipes designed based on mutations commonly found in certain tumours.
  • Personalized medicine approaches involve tailoring mRNA treatments by sequencing a patient’s tumour genes, aiming for specificity and effectiveness.

The Future Potential of mRNA-Based Medicine

• Diverse Therapeutic Applications:
  • Scientists are investigating mRNA’s potential in treating a wide array of diseases beyond infectious illnesses and cancer.
  • These include heart disease, neurodegenerative conditions, bone loss, and others.
  • The ability to deliver corrected mRNA recipes to cells offers promise in correcting protein-related issues causing various diseases.
• Promising Applications:
  • Early-stage studies hint at potential mRNA treatments for conditions like propionic acidaemia and diabetic wound healing, showing the capacity for mRNA to serve as a foundation for personalized, effective, and low side-effect therapies.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/mrna-vaccines-cancer-personalised-medicine/article67650001.ece/amp/