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Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 01 August 2024

CONTENTS NITI Aayog’s 9th Governing Council Meeting Discusses India’s Development Vision for 2047 Advanced Land Navigation System NITI Aayog’s 9th Governing Council Meeting Discusses India’s Development Vision for 2047 Context: In the 9th Governing Council Meeting of NITI Aayog, chaired by the Prime Minister, leaders from 20 states and 6 union territories gathered to discuss the “Viksit Bharat @2047” theme. The meeting aimed to establish a comprehensive framework for India’s progress towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. Relevance: GS II: Government Policies and Interventions Dimensions of the Article: Key Outcomes of the Meeting Governing Council of NITI Aayog About NITI Aayog Key Outcomes of the Meeting Economic Ambition India aspires to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2047, targeting a GDP of USD 30 trillion. This ambitious goal emphasizes the country’s commitment to sustained growth, innovation, and international competitiveness. Vision Development by States and Districts The meeting urged each state and district to develop a strategic vision for 2047, aligning with India’s national development goals. States’ Role in National Progress The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of states’ development in achieving national objectives, stressing that developed states are essential for a developed India. Focus on Poverty Alleviation A major point of discussion was the elimination of poverty at the grassroots level, with the idea of ‘zero poverty’ villages being explored to ensure comprehensive development. Infrastructure and Governance The significance of robust infrastructure, law and order, and effective governance was stressed as crucial for attracting investment. Investment-Friendly Environment An ‘Investment-friendly Charter’ was proposed to encourage states to create an investor-friendly environment, with indicators to promote healthy competition among states. Youth Skill Development The meeting emphasized the need to enhance youth skills to make them employment-ready, leveraging India’s demographic advantage in the global job market. Agricultural Innovation and Natural Farming The discussions focused on boosting agricultural productivity, diversifying agricultural practices, and promoting natural farming to improve soil health, reduce costs, and access international markets. Strategic Recommendations Key themes such as drinking water, electricity, healthcare, education, and land management were highlighted, based on recommendations from the National Conference of Chief Secretaries. Addressing Population Aging The Prime Minister encouraged states to develop demographic management plans to tackle future challenges related to population aging. Capacity Building in Government States were urged to invest in the capacity building of government officials at all levels and to collaborate with the Capacity Building Commission. Water Resource Management The creation of River Grids was recommended to optimize water resource utilization at the state level. Technological Integration in Governance The integration of cybersecurity measures and artificial intelligence in governance was identified as crucial for addressing future challenges and enhancing governance efficiency. Governing Council of NITI Aayog Overview The Governing Council is the primary body responsible for developing a shared vision of national priorities and strategies, engaging states in shaping India’s development agenda. Cooperative Federalism The Council embodies the principles of cooperative federalism, serving as a platform for discussions on inter-sectoral, inter-departmental, and federal issues to accelerate national development. Membership The Council is chaired by the Prime Minister and includes Chief Ministers of States and Union Territories with legislatures, Lieutenant Governors of other Union Territories, Ex-Officio Members, the Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, Full-Time Members, and Special Invitees. Functions The Governing Council Secretariat (GCS) coordinates the Council’s meetings and activities, as well as those of NITI Aayog’s various Verticals, Divisions, and Units. GCS also handles administrative and procedural matters, including coordinating the Annual Report for Parliamentary circulation and managing other governance-related tasks. About NITI Aayog The NITI Aayog serves as the apex public policy think tank of the GoI. It was established in 2015, by the NDA government, to replace the Planning Commission which followed a top-down model. It advises both the centre and states on social and economic issues. It is neither a constitutional body nor a statutory body but the outcome of an executive resolution. It was not created by the act of parliament. It has two Hubs. Team India Hub acts as interface between States and Centre. Knowledge and Innovation Hub builds the think-tank acumen of NITI Aayog. Composition: Chairperson: Prime minister Vice-Chairperson: To be appointed by Prime-Minister Governing Council: Chief Ministers of all states and Lt. Governors of Union Territories. Regional Council: To address specific regional issues, Comprising Chief Minister and Lt. Governors Chaired by the Prime Minister or his nominee. Ad-hoc Membership: Two members in ex-officio capacity from leading Research institutions on a rotational. Ex-Officio membership: Maximum four from the Union council of ministers to be nominated by the Prime Minister. Chief Executive Officer: Appointed by the Prime-minister for a fixed tenure, in the rank of Secretary to Government of India. Special Invitees: Experts, Specialists with domain knowledge nominated by the Prime Minister. Objectives: To generate a platform for national development, sectors and strategies with the collaboration of states and centre. To boost the factor of cooperative federalism between the centre and the states. For national development, it is necessary for both wings to work in synergy. To develop such mechanisms which work at the ground root level for progressive growth. A nation develops when its regions and states develop. To work on long term policies and strategies for long-term development. To set up a system for monitoring progress so that it can be used for analysing and improving methods. To provide a platform for resolving inter-departmental issues amicably. To make it a platform where the programmes, strategies, and schemes can be monitored on a day to day basis, and it could be understood which sector needs more resources to develop. To upgrade technological advancements in such a manner that focus can be made on initiatives and programmes. To ensure India’s level and ranking at the worldwide level and to make India an actively participating nation. To progress from food security towards nutrition and standardised meals and focus on agricultural production. To make use of more technology to avoid misadventures and corruption in governance. To make the working system more transparent and accountable. Advanced Land Navigation System Context: Recently, Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) was accorded to the procurement of Advanced Land Navigation System (ALNS) Mk-II for Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFVs) of the Indian Army. Relevance: GS II: Health Advanced Land Navigation System (ALNS) Overview Technology Base: The Advanced Land Navigation System utilizes a Ring Laser Gyro (RLG) for navigation purposes. Functionality: It is designed to navigate routes specified by the coordinates on military maps in ESM format. Data Provision: The system can supply Inertial, GPS, and Hybrid Navigation data to meet various navigation needs. Security Features: The system boasts robust encryption, making it spoof-proof and secure. Operational Modes: Inertial Mode: Relies solely on data from inertial sensors. Hybrid Mode: Integrates data from both inertial sensors and GPS receivers, using the most precise data for navigation. GPS Mode: Functions independently of inertial sensor data. Compatibility: The ALNS Mk-II version is compatible with India’s regional navigation system, IRNSS/NavIC, as well as global systems like GPS and GLONASS. Special Features: It supports Defence Series Maps, enhancing navigational accuracy for armored fighting vehicles (AFVs).

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 01 August 2024

CONTENTS Small Modular Reactors and the Cost of Proliferation Resistance AI Needs Cultural Policies, not Just Regulation Small Modular Reactors and the Cost of Proliferation Resistance Context: Nuclear energy plays a crucial role in the global energy mix as it awaits the development and advancement of other renewable energy technologies, while fossil fuel sources, particularly coal, remain relevant and more affordable. It is in this context that the Indian government plans to collaborate with the private sector to research and test small modular reactors (SMRs). Relevance: GS1- Mineral and Energy Resources, Mobilization of Resources GS3-Nuclear Technology, Environmental Conservation Mains Question: What advantages do small modular reactors offer in comparison to the traditional nuclear power reactors? Also discuss the challenges associated with SMRs and highlight the way forward strategy to overcome them? (15 Marks, 250 Words). Proliferation Resistance: Proliferation resistance is a characteristic of a nuclear energy system that prevents the diversion or undeclared production of nuclear material, or the misuse of technology, by states to acquire nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) defines proliferation resistance in this way. About Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are advanced nuclear reactors with a power capacity of up to 300 MW(e) per unit, which is about one-third of the generating capacity of traditional nuclear power reactors. SMRs can produce a significant amount of low-carbon electricity and are characterized by the following features: Small: They are physically much smaller than conventional nuclear power reactors. Modular: Their systems and components can be factory-assembled and transported as a unit to the installation site. Reactors: They use nuclear fission to generate heat and produce energy. SMRs are designed with enhanced safety features to minimize the risk of uncontrolled radioactive material release. They are intended to operate for 40-60 years with capacity factors exceeding 90%. Significance of SMRs: Nuclear power provides a high and sustainable energy output, despite the added complexities of building safe and reliable reactors and managing spent nuclear fuel. Cost and time overruns, sometimes doubling from initial project estimates, are not uncommon. Consequently, the nuclear power tariff is higher for newer facilities, even though they fill gaps left by renewable sources. SMRs, ranging from 10 MWe to 300 MWe, are smaller versions of traditional reactors. They aim to enhance safety without sacrificing commercial viability by utilizing the higher energy content of nuclear fuel, a modular design, a smaller operational footprint, and reduced capital costs. Many of the benefits of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are inherently tied to their small and modular design. Their smaller footprint allows them to be located in areas unsuitable for larger nuclear power plants. Prefabricated SMR units can be manufactured and then transported and installed on-site, making them more cost-effective to build than large power reactors, which are often custom-designed for specific locations and can face construction delays. SMRs offer savings in cost and construction time and can be deployed incrementally to meet growing energy demand. In areas with insufficient transmission lines and grid capacity, SMRs can be integrated into an existing grid or used off-grid due to their smaller electrical output, providing low-carbon power for industry and communities. Compared to existing reactors, proposed SMR designs are generally simpler, with safety concepts often relying on passive systems and inherent safety features such as low power and operating pressure. This means no human intervention or external power is needed to shut down systems, as passive systems rely on physical phenomena like natural circulation, convection, gravity, and self-pressurization. These increased safety margins can significantly reduce or eliminate the risk of radioactive releases to the environment and public in the event of an accident. SMRs have reduced fuel requirements. SMR-based power plants may need refueling less frequently, every 3 to 7 years, compared to every 1 to 2 years for conventional plants. Some SMRs are designed to operate for up to 30 years without refueling. Challenges Associated: However, the challenge is to manage the external costs associated with SMRs. The government’s privatization of nuclear power generation will also heighten the need for regulatory safeguards to prevent radioactive material from being diverted for military purposes. The first generation of SMRs is expected to use low-enriched uranium in facilities assembled on-site with factory-made parts, producing waste that can be managed with existing technologies and generating power that can be sold at economical rates. However, these reactors will require frequent refueling and will produce a significant amount of plutonium, both of which will challenge proliferation resistance. The IAEA has advocated for the use of reactor designs that can be safeguarded, but such solutions will increase capital costs. Future generations of SMRs may require more enriched uranium, especially if they aim for longer continuous generation periods, or more advanced systems to improve fuel-use efficiency, which would increase the operational footprint and the cost of generation. In fact, nuclear reactors have fixed baseline cost and safety expectations that do not change with energy output, meaning SMR-based tariffs may not automatically be lower. This is why the Department of Atomic Energy increased its reactors’ capacity from 220 MW to 700 MW. Conclusion: The ability of SMRs to enhance the prospects of nuclear power in India will therefore depend on their commercial viability, which in turn relies on less uncertain market conditions, stable grids, opportunities to mass-produce parts, and the cost of proliferation resistance. AI Needs Cultural Policies, not Just Regulation Context: The future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) cannot be secured by regulation alone. To ensure AI is safe and trustworthy for everyone, we must complement regulation with policies that promote high-quality data as a public good. This approach is essential for fostering transparency, creating a level playing field, and building public trust. Only by providing fair and broad access to data can we fully realize AI’s potential and distribute its benefits equitably. Relevance: GS3- Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nano-technology, Bio-technology and issues relating to Intellectual Property Rights. Mains Question: What role does data play in the functioning of Artificial Intelligence (AI)? How can AI help in the preservation of cultural heritage and traditional knowledge? (10 Marks, 150 Words). Data and AI: Data is the lifeblood of AI. In this context, the principles of neural scaling are straightforward: the more data, the better. For example, the more diverse and voluminous human-generated text available for unsupervised learning, the better Large Language Models (LLMs) will perform. Alongside computing power and algorithmic innovations, data is arguably the most crucial driver of progress in the field. Paucity of Continuous Data: However, there is a problem. Humans do not produce enough digital content to sustain these ever-growing models. Current training datasets are already enormous: Meta’s LLama 3, for instance, is trained on 15 trillion tokens, over 10 times the size of the British Library’s book collection. A recent study suggests that the demand for high-quality text is such that we might reach a ‘peak data’ scenario before 2030. Other studies warn about the risks of public data contamination by LLMs themselves, leading to feedback loops that amplify biases and reduce diversity. AI winter: Concerns about an ‘AI winter’ highlight the relentless data race in which researchers and industry players are engaged, sometimes compromising quality and ethics. A notable example is ‘Books3,’ a collection of pirated books believed to be used by leading LLMs. Whether this practice falls under fair-use policy is a legal debate. More troubling is the hoarding of these books without any clear guiding principle. Even though progress is being made, partly due to regulation, LLMs are still primarily trained on an opaque mix of licensed content, ‘publicly available data,’ and ‘social media interactions.’ Studies indicate that these data reflect and sometimes even worsen existing distortions in our cyberspace, creating a predominantly anglophone and present-centric world. The Absence of Primary Sources: The idea that Large Language Models (LLMs) are trained on a comprehensive collection of human knowledge is a fanciful delusion. Current LLMs are far from the universal library imagined by thinkers like Leibniz and Borges. While repositories of stolen texts like ‘Books3’ may include some scholarly works, these are mostly secondary sources written in English—commentaries that barely scratch the surface of human culture. Notably absent are primary sources and their diverse languages: archival documents, oral traditions, forgotten books in public collections, and inscriptions on stone—the raw materials of our cultural heritage. These documents represent an untapped reservoir of linguistic data. Take Italy, for example. The State Archives of Italy alone house at least 1,500 kilometers of shelved documents (measured linearly)—not counting the vast holdings of the Vatican. Estimating the total volume of tokens that could be derived from this heritage is challenging. However, considering the hundreds of archives spread across our five continents, it’s reasonable to believe they could match or even exceed the data currently used to train LLMs. If harnessed, this data would not only enrich AI’s understanding of humanity’s cultural wealth but also make it more accessible to the world. They could revolutionize our understanding of history while safeguarding the world’s cultural heritage from neglect, war, and climate change. Additionally, they promise significant economic benefits. By helping neural networks scale up, their release into the public domain would allow smaller companies, startups, and the open-source AI community to use these large pools of free and transparent data to develop their own applications, leveling the playing field against Big Tech and fostering global innovation. Examples from Italy and Canada: Advancements in the digital humanities, particularly through AI, have significantly reduced the cost of digitization, allowing us to extract text from printed and manuscript documents with remarkable accuracy and speed. Italy recognized this potential and allocated €500 million from its ‘Next Generation EU’ package for the ‘Digital Library’ project. Unfortunately, this ambitious initiative, aimed at making Italy’s rich heritage accessible as open data, has since been deprioritized and restructured, showing a lack of foresight. Canada’s Official Languages Act offers a valuable lesson here. Although initially criticized as wasteful, this policy mandating bilingual institutions eventually produced one of the most valuable datasets for training translation software. However, recent discussions about adopting regional languages in the Spanish Cortes and European Union institutions have overlooked this important aspect. Even supporters have failed to acknowledge the cultural, economic, and technological benefits of promoting the digitization of low-resource languages as complementary. Conclusion: As we accelerate the digital transition, we must not overlook the immense potential of our world’s cultural heritage. Digitizing it is crucial for preserving history, democratizing knowledge, and enabling truly inclusive AI innovation.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 01 August 2024

CONTENTS Surge in Tax Concessions for Political Donations Dark Oxygen Report on Currency and Finance Landslide Nano-MIND Technology Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme Mettur Dam Surge in Tax Concessions for Political Donations Context: Recent financial data shows a notable increase in tax concessions for donations to political parties, with nearly Rs 4,000 crore granted in the fiscal year 2022-23. This rise underscores the growing trend of using tax deductions to support electoral funding and highlights broader shifts in political finance and its impact on fiscal policy. Relevance: GS II: Indian Economy Dimensions of the Article: Tax Concessions on Political Donations Implications of Increasing Tax Concessions Regulations on Political Donations in India Way Forward Tax Concessions on Political Donations Definition of Tax Concession A tax concession refers to a reduction in tax liabilities or a favorable change in tax regulations that benefits specific groups or organizations. Indian Tax Provisions In India, tax concessions for political donations are governed by the Income Tax Act, 1961. Section 80GGB: Allows Indian companies to receive tax deductions for donations to political parties or electoral trusts, excluding cash donations. Section 80GGC: Applies to individuals, firms, and non-corporate entities, enabling tax deductions for similar contributions, also excluding cash donations. Deductions are available for donations made through cheques, account transfers, or electoral bonds. Definition of Political Party A political party is defined as one that is registered under Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Recent Statistics For FY 2022-23, tax concessions for political donations totaled approximately Rs 3,967.54 crore. In FY 2021-22, the tax concessions were Rs 3,516.47 crore, reflecting a 13% increase from the previous year. Since FY 2014-15, the cumulative impact of tax concessions on political donations has reached around Rs 12,270.19 crore. In FY 2022-23, Rs 2,003.43 crore of these concessions were attributed to corporate donations under Section 80GGB. Individuals claimed Rs 1,862.38 crore in deductions under Section 80GGC. Implications of Increasing Tax Concessions Trends in Electoral Financing The rise in tax concessions points to a growing dependence on donations from corporations and individuals for political financing. This trend may influence the balance of power and decision-making within politics. Need for Transparency The increase in political donations underscores the need for enhanced transparency in political financing to ensure accountability and mitigate undue influence. Impact on Public Finances Rising tax concessions could affect government revenue, potentially impacting funding for public services and infrastructure. Excessive tax concessions might lead to market distortions, benefiting specific sectors or companies disproportionately. Long-Term Fiscal Concerns While tax concessions may promote short-term growth, they need to be managed carefully to avoid compromising long-term fiscal health and sustainability. Regulations on Political Donations in India Acceptance of Donations Section 29B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951: Permits political parties to accept voluntary contributions from individuals or companies, excluding government entities and foreign sources. Corporate Contributions Section 182 of the Companies Act, 2013: Authorizes Indian companies to donate to political parties under specific conditions, including: Board approval Payments made through non-cash methods Disclosure in the company’s profit and loss account Tax Deductions Income Tax Act, 1961: Provides tax deductions for donations to political parties or electoral trusts: Section 80GGB: For Indian companies Section 80GGC: For individuals and non-corporate entities Foreign Contributions Foreign Contributions (Regulations) Act, 2010 (FCRA): Prohibits political parties from accepting donations from foreign sources. However, Indian companies with permissible foreign investment are not classified as foreign sources and can contribute under the Companies Act, 2013. Electoral Bonds Scheme Introduced in 2018, this scheme allows anonymous donations to political parties. Bonds can be purchased from authorized banks and are valid for 15 days. In February 2024, the Supreme Court of India declared the Electoral Bond Scheme and related amendments unconstitutional, citing violations of the right to information. Way Forward Revising Tax Concessions Reevaluating the framework for tax concessions to ensure they align with fiscal policies and minimize negative impacts on government revenues. Alternative Funding Mechanisms Setting reasonable limits on tax deductions and exploring other political funding methods to ensure system sustainability. Public Funding for Political Parties Considering government financial support to reduce reliance on private donations and minimize the influence of vested interests. Public funding models vary, with some countries offering funds based on election performance, membership fees, or donations. Examples include “democracy vouchers” in Seattle. Enhanced Transparency Mandating full disclosure of all political donations, including those through electoral bonds. Establishing an independent commission to oversee political finance with robust oversight mechanisms. -Source: The Hindu Dark Oxygen Context: Scientists have recently reported an unknown process generating oxygen in the world’s oceans’ deep regions, where photosynthesis is not possible due to the absence of sunlight. This discovery is significant as it indicates the presence of previously unknown ecosystems and highlights the importance of oxygen in supporting marine life. Relevance: GS I: Geography Dimensions of the Article: What is Dark Oxygen? About Deep Sea Mining About Deep Ocean Mission What is Dark Oxygen? Observation Scientists have detected an unexpected increase in oxygen levels in certain regions of the abyssal zone, where sunlight is too dim for photosynthesis to occur. Definition This phenomenon, identified as ‘dark oxygen,’ represents a new source of oxygen independent of photosynthesis. Potential Causes Great Conveyor Belt: Normally, oxygen in deep ocean areas is supplied by this global circulation system, which should diminish without local production due to oxygen consumption by small marine organisms. Polymetallic Nodules: One hypothesis suggests that polymetallic nodules on the ocean floor might be generating oxygen. These nodules are made of iron, manganese hydroxides, and rock and could potentially produce oxygen by splitting water molecules through transported electric charges. Unclear Energy Source: The exact mechanism or energy source for how these nodules produce oxygen is still unknown. Study Location The research was carried out in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, located off the west coast of Mexico. This region is renowned for its high concentration of polymetallic nodules. About Deep Sea Mining The deep sea is the region of the ocean below a depth of 200 metres, and the practise of mining for minerals there is referred to as deep-sea mining. The international seabed is defined as the area that lies outside of national jurisdiction and accounts for about 50% of the total area of the world’s oceans, according to the International Seabed Authority, a body established under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) for monitoring all activities related to mineral resources in the deep sea. Issues: It may significantly affect marine ecosystems and biodiversity. Deep-sea habitats may change or be destroyed by machine-aided excavation and gauging of the ocean floor. As a result, there will be a loss of species—many of which are unique to the area—as well as a fragmentation or loss of the structure and functionality of the ecosystem. It will agitate the seafloor’s fine sediments and release suspended particle plumes. Mining ships’ surface wastewater discharges make this situation worse. Noise, vibration, and light pollution brought on by mining machinery and surface vessels, as well as potential fuel leaks and spills, could have an impact on species like whales, tuna, and sharks. About Deep Ocean Mission: Nodal:  Ministry of Earth Sciences Deep Ocean Mission is a mission mode project to support the Blue Economy Initiatives of the Government of India. Government of India has also launched a ‘Deep Ocean Mission’ for exploration of polymetallic nodules in Central Indian Ocean Basin. Polymetallic nodules contain multiple metals like copper, nickel, cobalt, manganese, iron, lead, zinc, aluminium, silver, gold, and platinum etc. in variable constitutions and are precipitate of hot fluids from upwelling hot magma from the deep interior of the oceanic crust. It is a Central Sector Scheme and no separate allocation for States is envisaged. It is proposed to collaborate with non-governmental organizations for research collaboration for various components of Deep Ocean Mission. The major objectives proposed under Deep Ocean Mission are as follows: Development of technologies for deep sea mining, underwater vehicles and underwater robotics; Development of ocean climate change advisory services; Technological innovations for exploration and conservation of deep sea biodiversity; Deep ocean survey and exploration; Proof of concept studies on energy and freshwater from the ocean; and Establishing advanced marine station for ocean biology. -Source: The Hindu Report on Currency and Finance Context: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released the Report on Currency and Finance (RCF) for the year 2023-24 with the theme – India’s Digital Revolution. Relevance: GS III: Indian Economy Dimensions of the Article: India’s Digital Revolution – Key Highlights Significance of Digitalisation in India’s Financial Sector Challenges Posed by Digitalisation in Finance Remittances in India – Key Insights Way Forward for India’s Digital Finance Ecosystem India’s Digital Revolution – Key Highlights Leadership in Digital Public Infrastructure: India is at the forefront of the global digital revolution, bolstered by its robust digital public infrastructure (DPI), evolving institutional frameworks, and a tech-savvy population. Global Rankings: India ranks first globally in biometric-based identification (Aadhaar) and real-time payments volume, second in telecom subscribers, and third in the startup ecosystem. Unified Payments Interface (UPI): UPI has transformed the retail payment landscape in India, providing a faster and more convenient transaction experience for users. Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC): The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is leading the charge with pilot runs of the e-rupee, India’s version of a central bank digital currency. Digital Lending Ecosystem: This sector is gaining momentum with initiatives like the Open Credit Enablement Network and the Open Network for Digital Commerce. FinTechs are partnering with banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) to offer digital credit services. Significance of Digitalisation in India’s Financial Sector Next-Generation Banking: Innovations in digital payments and credit assessment models are streamlining loan disbursements in the retail sector. Efficient Financial Markets: Digitalisation is enhancing access to affordable financial services, improving the efficiency of direct benefit transfers (DBTs), and boosting e-commerce through embedded finance. Global Impact: India’s digitalisation is fueling growth in service exports and reducing remittance costs. The RBI’s participation in Project Nexus aims to interlink India’s UPI with fast payment systems in Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand for instant cross-border retail payments. Challenges Posed by Digitalisation in Finance Cybersecurity and Data Privacy: The increasing digital footprint raises concerns about cybersecurity, data privacy, and data bias, along with risks associated with vendors and third parties. Complexity and Risks: Emerging technologies bring new financial models that users may not fully understand, increasing the risk of exposure to fraudulent apps and manipulative practices. Human Resource Challenges: The financial sector may face a skills gap, necessitating significant investments in upskilling and reskilling workers. Remittances in India – Key Insights Global Context: According to the World Bank, global remittances reached an estimated US$ 857.3 billion in 2023, with India contributing US$ 115.3 billion, the highest share globally. Regional Sources: In 2021, more than half of India’s inward remittances came from Gulf countries, with North America contributing 22%. Economic Impact: The remittance-to-GDP ratio in India has increased from 2.8% in 2000 to 3.2% in 2023, surpassing the ratio of gross FDI inflows to GDP (1.9% in 2023), strengthening India’s external sector. Future Outlook: India’s working-age population is expected to continue growing until 2048, positioning the country as a leading labor supplier globally. This demographic trend could drive remittances to around $160 billion by 2029. Way Forward for India’s Digital Finance Ecosystem Enhanced Regulatory Frameworks: To ensure financial stability, customer protection, and competition, India’s regulatory and supervisory frameworks must evolve. The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act 2023 is an example of efforts to safeguard personal data in a digitalized environment. Balancing Regulation and Innovation: The goal is to maintain a balance between effective regulation and the promotion of financial innovations within a safe and trustworthy ecosystem. -Source: Indian Express Wayanad Landslide Context: At least 144 persons were killed and 197 injured after multiple landslides flattened some three villages in Vythiri taluk of the hilly Wayanad district of Kerala early on July 30. Relevance: GS III- Disaster Management Dimensions of the Article: Landslide in Wayanad: Key Details and Causes What are Landslides? Two Primary varieties of Landslides in India Why are Landslides more frequent in the Himalayas than in the Western Ghats? Landslide in Wayanad: Key Details and Causes Incident Overview Event: A severe landslide occurred in the hilly region of Meppadi in Kerala’s Wayanad district. Casualties: The disaster claimed the lives of at least 144 people. Timing: The first landslide struck around 1 AM, followed by a second at 4:30 AM. Causes of the Wayanad Landslide Heavy Rainfall: The region experienced extremely heavy rainfall, with over 140 mm recorded in just 24 hours, about five times the normal amount for this period. Fragile Ecology: The area’s fragile ecological balance, coupled with increased population pressures, contributed to the landslides. Geographical Vulnerability: The western part of Kerala, characterized by hilly terrain with steep slopes, is inherently susceptible to landslides. Terrain Composition: Wayanad’s landscape has a distinctive structure with a layer of soil over hard rocks. Intense rainfall saturates the soil, allowing water to penetrate and flow between the soil and rock layers, destabilizing the soil and triggering landslides. Deforestation: Loss of forest cover, particularly in plantation areas, increases the land’s vulnerability to landslides. According to a 2021 study, 59% of landslides in Kerala occur in plantation regions. Environmental and Climatic Factors Arabian Sea Warming: Climate scientists have highlighted the warming of the Arabian Sea as a factor behind unpredictable and heavy rain patterns. This warming causes atmospheric instability, leading to the formation of deep cloud systems that result in heavy rainfall over short periods, thereby increasing landslide risks. Ecological Sensitivity: The “Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel,” led by ecologist Madhav Gadgil, recommended in 2011 that the Wayanad hill ranges and 75% of the Western Ghats’ 129,037 sq km area be declared ecologically sensitive due to dense forests, endemic species, and unique geology. Panel Recommendations: The panel advised creating zones based on ecological sensitivity, with strict monitoring and protection measures, including bans on mining, quarrying, new thermal power plants, hydropower projects, and large-scale wind energy projects in the most sensitive areas. Implementation: Despite these recommendations, implementation has been delayed for over 14 years due to opposition from state governments, industries, and local communities. What are Landslides? Landslides are physical mass movement of soil, rocks and debris down the mountain slope because of heavy rainfall, earthquake, gravity and other factors. Why do Landslides Occur? Base of the huge mountains eroded by rivers or due to mining activities or erosion agents resulting in steep slopes. Increased industrialisation leading to climate change and weather disturbances. Change in river flow due to construction of dams, barriers, etc. Loose soil cover and sloping terrain. Two Primary varieties of Landslides in India I- Himalayas India has the highest mountain chain on earth, the Himalayas, which are formed due to collision of Indian and Eurasian plate, the northward movement of the Indian plate towards China causes continuous stress on the rocks rendering them friable, weak and prone to landslides and earthquakes. The Northeastern region is badly affected by landslide problems causing recurring economic losses worth billions of rupees. II- Western Ghats A different variety of landslides, characterized by a lateritic cap (Laterite is a soil and rock type rich in iron and aluminium , and is commonly considered to have formed in hot and wet tropical areas), pose constant threat to the Western Ghats in the South, along the steep slopes overlooking the Konkan coast besides Nilgiris, which is highly landslide prone. The problem needs to be tackled for mitigation and management for which hazard zones have to be identified and specific slides to be stabilized and managed in addition to monitoring and early warning systems to be placed at selected sites. Zone Map Himalayas of Northwest and Northeast India and the Western Ghats are two regions of high vulnerability and are landslide prone. Why are Landslides more frequent in the Himalayas than in the Western Ghats? In the Himalayas, Landslides are very frequent because: Heavy snowfall in winter and melting in summer induces debris flow, which is carried in large quantity by numerous streams and rivers – which results in increases chances of Landslides. Himalayas are made of sedimentary rocks which can easily be eroded – hence, erosions contribute to more landslides. Drifting of Indian plate causes frequent earthquakes and resultant instability in the region. Man-made activities like grazing, construction and cultivation abet soil erosion and risks of landslides. Himalayas not yet reached its isostatic equilibrium which destabilizes the slopes causing landslides. Diurnal changes of temperature are much more in northern India than in southern slopes – weakening the rocks and increasing mass wasting and erosion. In the Wester Ghats, Landslides are comparatively less frequent because: Western Ghats are eroded, denuded, aged, mature, worn out by exogenic forces and have a much lower height – hence, occurrence of Landslides is lesser. The Western Ghats are on more stable part of Indian plate, hence, there is a lesser occurrence of earthquakes and landslides. While steep slope on western side with high rainfall creates idea condition for landslide but gentle eastern slope with low rainfall and rivers in senile stage, counters the condition. Moving of Indian plates doesn’t affect the Western Ghats much (as they are old block mountains), hence the reduced number of landslides. Small & swift flowing streams of western side and big matured rivers on eastern side (like Krishna, Godavari, etc) cannot carry large amount of debris. -Source: The Hindu Nano-MIND Technology Context: Researchers from the Korean Institute of Basic Science have developed a magnetogenetics technology dubbed Nano Magnetogenetic Interface for NeuroDynamics (Nano-MIND) which has been demonstrated on mice. Relevance: GS III: Science and Technology Nano-MIND Technology: Overview and Highlights Overview Nano-MIND (Magnetogenetic Interface for NeuroDynamics): This cutting-edge technology offers new avenues for exploring and influencing complex brain functions, including cognition, emotion, and motivation. Functionality: It enables wireless, remote, and precise modulation of specific deep brain neural circuits using magnetic fields and magnetized nanoparticles. This method represents a significant improvement over traditional brain manipulation techniques. Research Highlights Demonstration on Mice: The research team showcased Nano-MIND’s capabilities by activating particular neurons in various brain regions of mice. Maternal Behavior Induction: One key achievement was the activation of inhibitory GABA receptors in the medial preoptic area (MPOA), known for governing maternal behaviors. When these neurons were stimulated in non-maternal female mice, the animals displayed markedly increased nurturing behaviors similar to those of maternal mice. Regulation of Feeding Behaviors: The researchers also targeted motivation circuits in the lateral hypothalamus to regulate feeding behaviors. Activating inhibitory neurons in this region led to a significant 100% increase in appetite and feeding behaviors in mice. In contrast, activating excitatory neurons resulted in more than a 50% reduction in these behaviors. Significance Advancement in Neuroscience: Nano-MIND technology marks a major advancement in neuroscience, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of brain functions and disorders. Applications: The technology holds promise for developing advanced brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and could play a critical role in treating neurological disorders, offering new avenues for therapeutic interventions. -Source: India Today Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme Context: A total of 1,862 disease outbreaks were reported to the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme last year, with the highest number being reported from Kerala, the Lok Sabha was informed recently. Relevance: GS II: Health Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) Overview Nature: The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) is a decentralized, state-based initiative designed to strengthen disease surveillance across India. Launch: It was initiated in November 2004 with assistance from the World Bank, under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. Objectives Primary Goal: The program aims to establish and maintain a decentralized, laboratory-based, IT-enabled surveillance system for monitoring epidemic-prone diseases. Specific Goals: To track disease trends. To detect and respond to outbreaks during their early stages using trained Rapid Response Teams (RRTs). Programme Components Surveillance Units: Establishment of surveillance units at the national, state, and district levels to integrate and decentralize surveillance activities. Human Resource Development: Training of personnel, including State Surveillance Officers, District Surveillance Officers, RRTs, and other medical and paramedical staff, on the principles of disease surveillance. Information Technology: Utilization of ICT for data collection, collation, analysis, and dissemination. Laboratory Strengthening: Enhancing the capabilities of public health laboratories. Inter-Sectoral Coordination: Collaboration with other sectors for managing zoonotic diseases. Data Management Data Collection: Data on epidemic-prone diseases are gathered weekly, categorized into “S” (suspected cases), “P” (presumptive cases), and “L” (laboratory-confirmed cases). This data is reported by health workers, clinicians, and laboratory staff. Reporting: Weekly disease outbreak reports are collected from States/UTs, including NIL reports if no cases are observed. These reports are compiled to provide insights into disease trends and seasonality. Outbreak Response: If a rising trend in illness is detected, RRTs investigate to identify and control potential outbreaks. Data Analysis: The collected data is analyzed at the state and district levels, with appropriate actions taken based on the findings. -Source: Indian Express Mettur Dam Context: A warning has been issued to people residing in low-lying areas of the Mettur Dam, following increased inflow into the dam. Relevance: GS II: Geography Dimensions of the Article: Overview of Mettur Dam Key Facts about the Kaveri River Overview of Mettur Dam Introduction: Established in 1934, the Mettur Dam stands as one of India’s largest dams. Location: Positioned in Mettur, Salem District, Tamil Nadu. Built across a gorge where the Kaveri River enters the plains. Specifications: Type: Masonry gravity dam. Dimensions: Extends 1,700 meters in length, reaches a maximum height of 120 feet, and holds a capacity of 93.4 tmc ft. Reservoir: Creates the Stanley Reservoir. Additional Features: In 1937, the Mettur hydroelectric and thermal power plant was established at the base of the dam, generating 32 MW of hydropower. Nearby park on the opposite side features lawns, fountains, and a statue of Muniappan/Aiyanar. Irrigation Benefits: Supports irrigation across several districts including Salem, Erode, Namakkal, Karur, Tiruchirappali, and Thanjavur, covering 271,000 acres (110,000 hectares) of farmland. Key Facts about the Kaveri River Overview: The Kaveri River, also known as the Cauvery River, is a major river in southern India and holds sacred significance in Hinduism. Course: Originates from Brahmagiri Hill in the Western Ghats of southwestern Karnataka, at an elevation of 1,341 meters (4,400 feet) above sea level. Flows southeast through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, eventually emptying into the Bay of Bengal through two main mouths. Total length: 800 kilometers from source to mouth. Geographical Boundaries: Flanked by the Western Ghats to the west, the Eastern Ghats to the east and south, and ridges separating it from the Krishna and Pennar basins to the north. Basin Area: The Kaveri Basin spans Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and the Union Territory of Puducherry, covering 81,155 square kilometers. Tributaries: Left-bank tributaries: Harangi, Hemavati, Shimsha, and Arkavati. Right-bank tributaries: Lakshmantirtha, Kabbani, Suvarnavati, Bhavani, Noyil, and Amaravati. Dams: Notable dams include Krishna Raja Sagara Dam, Mettur Dam, and Banasura Sagar Dam on the Kabini River, a Kaveri tributary. -Source: The Hindu

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 31 July 2024

CONTENTS National Mission for Manuscript ISTIC-UNESCO National Mission for Manuscript Context: Recently the Ministry of Culture and Tourism shed light on the achievements made in the National Mission for Manuscripts and National Culture Fund. Relevance: GS II: Government Policies and Interventions Dimensions of the Article: National Mission for Manuscripts National Culture Fund (NCF) National Mission for Manuscripts Establishment: 2003, by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Government of India. Objectives: Documentation Conservation Digitization Online dissemination of India’s manuscript heritage. Infrastructure: Over 100 Manuscripts Resource Centres and Manuscripts Conservation Centres across India. Collection: Approximately ten million manuscripts, the largest in the world, covering various themes, textures, scripts, languages, calligraphies, illuminations, and illustrations. Definition of a Manuscript: A handwritten document on materials like paper, bark, cloth, metal, or palm leaf, at least seventy-five years old, with significant scientific, historical, or aesthetic value. Distinction: Manuscripts differ from historical records like epigraphs and firmans, as they primarily convey knowledge content rather than direct historical facts. Diversity: Manuscripts exist in hundreds of different languages and scripts. National Culture Fund (NCF) Establishment: 1996, under the Charitable Endowment Act, 1890. Purpose: To mobilize additional resources through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) for promoting, protecting, and preserving India’s cultural heritage. Functions: Financing mechanism for donor/sponsor institutions to support the protection, restoration, conservation, and development of India’s cultural and heritage sites, including monuments and cultural traditions. Training and development of specialists and cultural administrators. Expanding space in existing museums and constructing new museums for special galleries. Documenting cultural expressions and forms that are losing relevance or facing extinction. Management: Managed by a Council chaired by the Minister of Culture and an Executive Committee chaired by the Secretary. Projects are overseen by a Project Implementation Committee (PIC) with representatives from donors, implementers, and NCF. The Comptroller and Auditor General of India annually audit the accounts of NCF. Platform: NCF offers a reliable and innovative platform for partnerships in heritage, culture, and the arts. ISTIC-UNESCO Context: The International Science, Technology, and Innovation Centre for South-South Cooperation (ISTIC), under UNESCO’s auspices, is hosting a significant STI Conclave titled “Traditional Knowledge for Sustainable Livelihoods” from July 29-31, 2024, in New Delhi, India. Relevance: Facts for Prelims ISTIC-UNESCO Full Name: The International Science, Technology and Innovation Centre for South-South Cooperation under the Auspices of UNESCO (ISTIC). Category: UNESCO Category 2 Centre. Hosting Country: Malaysia, since 2008. Purpose: ISTIC serves as an international platform offering sustainable programs and services aimed at enhancing sustainable development for South-South Cooperation. Hosting Agreement: The Centre operates under a six-year Agreement between the Malaysian Government, represented by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), and UNESCO. The current agreement spans from February 2022 to January 2028. Mission: ISTIC aims to be a leading international platform providing sustainable programs and services, fostering holistic talents towards institutional excellence, and promoting sustainable development for South-South Cooperation. Objectives: To facilitate the exchange of students, researchers, scientists, and technologists among developing countries. UNESCO Category 2 Centre Description: These are institutes and centres affiliated with UNESCO, forming a global network of institutions excelling in areas of UNESCO’s competence. Role: They are privileged partners of UNESCO, with access to the UNESCO logo and various international and intergovernmental bodies and networks, allowing them to leverage UNESCO’s international reach and convening powers. Partnership Strategy: These centres are an integral part of UNESCO’s Comprehensive Partnership Strategy, which aims to promote international cooperation and knowledge sharing.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 31 July 2024

CONTENTS Courts Should Limit the Governor’s Power to Refer Bills Impatience With Jobs Courts Should Limit the Governor’s Power to Refer Bills Context: The way some Governors have been handling legislation passed by State legislatures is a distortion of the Constitution. After the Supreme Court of India intervened in Punjab’s case and questioned the actions or lack thereof by Governors in Tamil Nadu and Telangana, it was expected that Governors would stop deliberately delaying action on Bills passed by the Assemblies. Relevance: GS2- Parliament Indian Constitution Cooperative Federalism Mains Question: The judiciary should limit Governor’s power to refer Bills to President without cause. Analyse in the context of recent controversies over the governor’s inaction in state legislature bills. (15 Marks, 250 Words). What are the Governor’s Powers over Bills? Article 200: Article 200 of the Indian Constitution details the procedure for a Bill passed by a State’s Legislative Assembly to be presented to the Governor for assent. The Governor can either assent to the Bill, withhold assent, or reserve the Bill for the President’s consideration. Additionally, the Governor can return the Bill to the House or Houses with a message requesting reconsideration. Article 201: This article states that when a Bill is reserved for the President’s consideration, the President can either assent to the Bill or withhold assent. The President may also instruct the Governor to return the Bill to the State Legislature for reconsideration. Options Available with the Governor: The Governor can give assent to the Bill or send it back to the Assembly, requesting reconsideration of some provisions or the entire Bill. The Governor can reserve the Bill for the President’s consideration. This is mandatory if the Bill passed by the State Legislature jeopardizes the position of the State High Court. The Governor can also reserve the Bill if it:  Contradicts the provisions of the Constitution,  Opposes the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP),  Is against the larger interest of the country,  Is of grave national importance,  Deals with the compulsory acquisition of property under Article 31A of the Constitution. Withholding assent is another option, but this is rarely done by any Governor as it would be highly unpopular. Recent Incidents: It seems that upon realizing their supposed ability to indefinitely hold Bills or withhold assent has been significantly limited, Governors have started sending Bills they disapprove of to the President for consideration. When the President, based on the Union government’s advice, refuses assent, the State legislatures have no options left. This raises the issue of whether the provision for reserving some Bills for the President’s consideration is being misused to undermine federalism. In other words, the Centre is given an indirect veto over State laws—something not intended by the Constitution. This is precisely the issue Kerala has raised in its writ petition before the Court, challenging the Governor’s decision to send the Bills to the President and the President’s refusal of assent. It is now a fitting time for the Court to rule on this matter and set limits on the Governors’ use of this option. Significant Ruling of the Court: It is important to remember that in the Punjab case, the Court ruled that Governors do not have a veto over Bills and that if they withhold assent, they must return the Bills to the Assembly. If the Assembly re-adopts the Bills, with or without amendments, the Governors are obliged to grant assent. In the Telangana case, the Court noted that Governors are expected to act on Bills “as soon as possible,” emphasizing that this phrase has significant constitutional meaning and that constitutional functionaries should keep this in mind. It is surprising that the Governors of West Bengal and Kerala have not learned from these rulings and observations. Seven Bills from Kerala, which typically wouldn’t require the President’s assent, were sent to Rashtrapati Bhavan, and four were refused assent without any explanation. The inaction on these Bills lasted from 23 to 10 months. West Bengal has also contested the inaction on some Bills, some of which may have been referred to the President. Conclusion: The issue goes beyond the political motivations that may have influenced the Governor’s actions or inactions. At its core, it questions whether the Constitution allows such indirect central intervention in the legislative affairs of the States. Impatience With Jobs Context: A major focus of this Budget speech is the change in approach toward employment, with a noticeable increase in its mentions. “Employment” was the central theme of the Budget, highlighting the Prime Minister’s package aimed at facilitating jobs and skills as a top priority. The proposed ₹2 lakh crore package aims to assist 4.1 crore youth over five years through three employment-linked incentive schemes. Relevance: GS Paper – 3 Indian Economy and issues relating to Planning Mobilization of Resources Growth, Development and Employment Inclusive Growth and issues arising from it Mains Question: Budget’s stress on employment is good but a lot more needs to be done in this direction. Discuss. (10 Marks, 150 Words). Schemes Introduced: Employment-Linked Incentive Schemes: Scheme 1: Focuses on recognizing first-time employees and providing support to both employees and employers. Offers a direct benefit transfer of one month’s salary in three installments to newly employed workers registered with the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO).  Eligibility: Salary up to ₹1 lakh per month.  Expected to benefit 210 lakh youth. Scheme 2: Encourages additional employment in the manufacturing sector, linked to EPFO contributions for first-time employees in the first four years. Expected to benefit 30 lakh youth and their employers. Scheme 3: Covers additional employment in all sectors. The government reimburses employers up to ₹3,000 per month for two years towards their EPFO contribution for each additional employee. Skill Development Scheme: Aims to skill 20 lakh youth over five years. Upgrades 1,000 Industrial Training Institutes in a hub-and-spoke arrangement with a focus on outcomes. Internship Scheme: Provides one crore youth with 12-month internship opportunities in 500 top companies over the next five years. The government provides an internship allowance of ₹5,000 per month and a one-time assistance of ₹6,000. Proposed Plan: Two of these schemes encourage the hiring of new entrants into the job market for at least a year with subsidies, while the third incentivizes companies to increase hiring beyond their previous year’s workforce. To bridge the gap between skills and available jobs, there is a plan to revamp 1,000 industrial training institutes with industry-aligned courses, along with an ambitious internship program for a crore youth in 500 top companies. The details of this internship placement program are yet to be developed, but the Centre has promised to cover most of the stipend costs. Companies can voluntarily participate in the scheme and use their corporate social responsibility funds for the remaining costs. The emphasis on addressing the jobs crisis, highlighted by the Opposition in the electoral battle, marks an acknowledgment of an issue the government had previously downplayed. Jobless Growth: It’s important to note that critiques of jobless growth aren’t exclusive to this government—the UPA faced similar criticisms. A part of the issue is investors’ preference for capital-intensive investments, partly because India’s labor laws haven’t kept pace with the liberalized economy, discouraging the creation of larger units with more employees. The recent distress has been more severe, as the informal sector, which provides most of India’s jobs, was hit by successive shocks like demonetization, the GST rollout, and COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns. Efforts to boost private investments through incentives have focused on production levels rather than new jobs. With rating agencies calling India’s high youth unemployment a structural threat to long-term growth, the effectiveness of this package, which officials hope will encourage hiring at the margins, will be closely monitored. However, for the overall employment outlook to improve, the government needs to do more, including promptly filling the many vacancies in its own ranks. Conclusion: Creating conditions to boost consumption is crucial, as the private sector won’t feel compelled to expand capacity or hire more people without that incentive, even with a subsidy available.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 31 July 2024

CONTENTS Celebrating the 4th Anniversary of NEP 2020 Mekedatu Project PARAKH Report Recommends Inclusion of Class 9-11 Performance in Class 12 Final Marks Phase IV of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) Quad Ministerial Meeting in Tokyo Saffron Crop Charles Darwin’s frog Celebrating the 4th Anniversary of NEP 2020 Context: Recently, the Union Ministry of Education celebrated the 4th anniversary of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 with a week-long campaign called “Shiksha Saptah.” This campaign is designed to promote and celebrate the achievements and objectives of NEP 2020. Relevance: GS II: Education Dimensions of the Article: Initiatives Under Shiksha Saptah Initiatives under NEP 2020 Key Initiatives under NEP 2020 Initiatives Under Shiksha Saptah Vidyanjali Program: Launch Year: 2021 Initiative By: Department of School Education and Literacy Objective: Connects community members and volunteers with government and government-aided schools through an online portal. Function: The portal allows alumni, teachers, scientists, and other professionals to contribute services, materials, or expertise to schools across India. It aims to enhance the learning environment by integrating schools, volunteers, and the community, in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 objectives. Tithi Bhojan: Community Engagement: This initiative encourages community members to celebrate special occasions like childbirth, marriage, and birthdays by contributing to the Mid Day Meal Scheme. Role: Tithi Bhojan acts as a supplement or complement to the existing Mid Day Meal program. Additional Activities: Cooking competitions are organized at Block, District, and State levels to encourage innovative meal ideas. National Education Policy 2020 Introduction and Historical Context: The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 envisions India as a global knowledge hub, marking the third major education policy overhaul since independence. The earlier policies were introduced in 1968 and 1986, setting the stage for this comprehensive transformation. Salient Features of NEP 2020: Universal Access: Ensuring access to education at all levels, from pre-primary to Grade 12. Early Childhood Care: Focusing on quality early childhood care and education for children aged 3-6. Curricular Structure: Adopting a new 5+3+3+4 curricular structure that aligns with age groups. Four Schooling Stages: Dividing education into Foundational, Preparatory, Middle, and Secondary stages. Integrated Learning: Breaking barriers between arts and sciences, curricular and extra-curricular activities, and vocational and academic streams. Multilingualism: Emphasizing multilingualism and promoting Indian languages. Performance Assessment: Introducing PARAKH, the National Assessment Centre for holistic development evaluation. Gender Inclusion and Special Education: Establishing a Gender Inclusion fund and Special Education Zones. Key Initiatives under NEP 2020 PM Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI): Objective: Provide high-quality, equitable, and inclusive education in a joyful school environment. Launch: September 2022. Scope: Upgrading over 14,500 schools across India. Allocation: Rs. 630 crore for school enhancement. NIPUN Bharat: Vision: Achieve universal foundational literacy and numeracy by Grade 3 (2026-27). Focus: Develop enabling environment for essential reading, writing, and numeracy skills. PM e-VIDYA: Aim: Promote online education and digital learning. Platforms: Utilizes DIKSHA and provides e-books and e-content nationwide. NCF FS and Jadui Pitara: Launch: National Curriculum Framework for Foundational Stage and Jadui Pitara for play-based learning. Audience: Tailored teaching materials for children aged 3 to 8. NISHTHA: Focus: Capacity-building program for teachers and school principals. Enhancement: Aims to foster holistic advancement in school heads and teachers. NDEAR: Blueprint: National Digital Education Architecture for technology-based education applications. Guiding Principles: Lays foundations for digital technology integration in education. Academic Frameworks: NcrF: National Credit Framework for enhanced credit transfer. NHEQF: National Higher Education Qualification Framework for academic flexibility. Increased Investment in Education: Advocacy: Recommends 6% of combined GDP allocation by Central and State Governments. Budget Allocation: Ministry of Education budget increased to Rs. 1,12,899 crore in 2023-24, a 13.68% rise from 2020-21. International Campuses and Partnerships: Support: NEP 2020 encourages Indian universities to establish campuses abroad and invites foreign institutions to operate in India. MoUs: Agreements signed for IIT campuses in Zanzibar and Abu Dhabi, fostering global educational connections. Educational Innovation in GIFT City: GIFT City Hub: Foreign universities authorized to offer specialized courses in Gujarat’s GIFT City. Objective: Cultivate high-end human resources for financial services and technology sectors. -Source: The Hindu Mekedatu Project Context: Karnataka Chief Minister(CM) has highlighted the Mekedatu balancing reservoir project as a key solution to address water-sharing issues with Tamil Nadu during monsoon distress years, asserting that the project would benefit both states, particularly in times of water scarcity. Relevance: GS-II: Polity and Governance (Intra-State Relations, Functions & responsibilities of the Union and the States, Issues and challenges of federal structure) Dimensions of the Article: About the Cauvery River Mekedatu About the Mekedatu Project: Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) Mekedatu Multi-Purpose Project Objective: The project aims to construct a balancing reservoir near Kanakapura to provide drinking water to Bengaluru and generate 400 MW of power. Location: Mekedatu is a deep gorge at the confluence of the Cauvery and Arkavathi rivers. Water Sharing Agreement: According to a Supreme Court ruling, Karnataka must release 177.25 thousand million cubic (tmc) feet of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu during a normal year, not during deficit rainfall years. Tamil Nadu’s entitlement is also 177.25 tmc ft, dependent on a normal monsoon. Karnataka’s Stance: The Karnataka Chief Minister emphasizes that the Mekedatu reservoir would help meet Bengaluru’s drinking water needs and allow Karnataka to release water to Tamil Nadu during distress years, with the capacity to store 65 tmc ft of water, which might otherwise flow into the sea. Tamil Nadu’s Opposition: Tamil Nadu opposes the project, arguing that the Mekedatu dam would significantly reduce water flow downstream, adversely affecting agriculture and water supply in the state. The Cauvery tribunal and Supreme Court order require consent from the lower riparian state, Tamil Nadu, for any projects on the Cauvery river. About the Cauvery River The Cauvery River (Kaveri), designated as the ‘Dakshina Ganga’ or ‘the Ganga of the South’, flows in a southeasterly direction through the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and descends the Eastern Ghats in a series of great falls. Before emptying into the Bay of Bengal south of Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu the river breaks into a large number of distributaries forming a wide delta called the “Garden of Southern India” The Cauvery basin extends over states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and Union Territory of Puducherry draining an area of 81 thousand Sq.km. It is bounded by the Western Ghats on the west, by the Eastern Ghats on the east and the south, and by the ridges separating it from the Krishna basin and Pennar basin on the north. The Nilgiris, an offshore of Western ghats, extend Eastwards to the Eastern ghats and divide the basin into two natural and political regions i.e., Karnataka plateau in the North and the Tamil Nadu plateau in the South. Physiographically, the basin can be divided into three parts – the Westen Ghats, the Plateau of Mysore, and the Delta. The delta area is the most fertile tract in the basin. The principal soil types found in the basin are black soils, red soils, laterites, alluvial soils, forest soils, and mixed soils. Red soils occupy large areas in the basin. Alluvial soils are found in the delta areas. It is almost a perennial river with comparatively fewer fluctuations in flow and is very useful for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation because its upper catchment area receives rainfall during summer by the south-west monsoon and the lower catchment area during the winter season by the retreating north-east monsoon. Harangi, Hemavati, Shimsha, and Arkavati are the tributaries on the left bank (north) and Lakshmantirtha, Kabbani, Suvarnavati, Bhavani, Noyil, and Amaravati are the tributaries on the right bank (south). Mekedatu Mekedatu is a location along Kaveri in the border of Chamarajanagar and Ramanagara Districts. Sangama is the place where Arkavati merges with Kaveri. At Mekedaatu, the Kaveri runs through a deep, narrow ravine of hard granite rock. The water flows very fast through the gorge, gouging pits in the rocky riverbed. About the Mekedatu Project: The Mekedatu dam project is located in Ramanagaram district, approximately 100 km south of Bengaluru, near the entry point of the Cauvery River into Tamil Nadu. The project has been a subject of controversy for several years. The proposed dam has a capacity of 48 TMC (thousand million cubic) feet and an estimated cost of Rs 6,000 crore. Its primary objectives are to provide drinking water to Bengaluru and recharge the regional groundwater table. In November 2014, the Karnataka government, under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, invited expressions of interest for the project and allocated Rs 25 crore in the 2015 Budget for a detailed project report. The Mekedatu dam is planned to be larger than the Krishnaraja Sagar project on the Cauvery River. The Central Water Commission (CWC) approved a feasibility study for the project in 2018. History of Opposition to the Project: Tamil Nadu witnessed widespread protests against the dam in 2015, including a statewide bandh supported by various stakeholders. The state Assembly passed unanimous resolutions against the project in December 2018 and January 2022. Prior to the 2016 Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, Captain Vijayakanth of DMDK led a delegation of Opposition leaders to meet the Prime Minister to raise concerns about the project. Siddaramaiah, the then Chief Minister of Karnataka, also led an all-party delegation from Karnataka seeking the Centre’s cooperation for the project. In August 2021, Tamil Nadu approached the Supreme Court against the project, arguing that Karnataka’s plan to construct two reservoirs on the Cauvery River would alter its flow and violate the final award of the Cauvery River Water Tribunal (CRWT). Tamil Nadu contended that the project would impede the flow of water downstream, affecting areas such as Billigundulu along the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border. Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) CWMA has been created as per the Cauvery Management Scheme framed by Centre and approved by Supreme Court. The Cauvery Management Scheme deals with release of water from Karnataka to Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry. It will be implemented by Cauvery Management Authority (CMA). CMA will be sole body to implement CWDT award as modified by Supreme Court. The Central Government will have no say in implementing of the scheme except for issuing administrative advisories to it. The authority will comprise a chairman, a secretary and eight members. Out of the eight members, two will be full time, while two will be part time members from centre’s side. Rest four will be part time members from states. The main mandate of the CMA will be to secure implementation and compliance of the Supreme Court’s order in relation to “storage, apportionment, regulation and control of Cauvery waters”. CMA will also advise the states to take suitable measures to improve water use efficiency. It will do so by promoting use of micro-irrigation, change in cropping patterns, improved farm practices and development of command areas. The CMA will also prepare an annual report covering its activities during the preceding year. Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) The Central government constituted the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) as per the provisions in the Kaveri Management Scheme laid down by the Supreme Court. While the CWMA is an umbrella body, the CWRC will monitor water management on a day-to-day basis, including the water level and inflow and outflow of reservoirs in all the basin states. -Source: The Hindu PARAKH Report Recommends Inclusion of Class 9-11 Performance in Class 12 Final Marks Context: A recent report by PARAKH, a unit established within NCERT to standardize assessments across school boards, recommends that students’ performance in Classes 9, 10, and 11—based on exams and continuous classwork—should contribute to their final marks at the end of Class 12. This recommendation aligns with the National Education Policy and aims to ensure common assessment standards, develop capacity, conduct achievement surveys, and establish equivalence among different school boards. Relevance: GS II: Government Policies and Interventions Dimensions of the Article: PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development): PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development): Overview: Establishment: PARAKH was set up as the National Assessment Centre within the NCERT in 2023. Objective: To act as a national single-window source for all assessment-related information and expertise, aiding both national and global learning assessments. Key Objectives: Setting Norms and Standards: To create and implement norms, standards, and guidelines for student assessment as per the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Major Focus Areas: Capacity Development in Competency-Based Assessment (Project Vidyasagar): Workshops: PARAKH organizes workshops across India to align educators with the National Curriculum Framework 2023. Goal: To address gaps in implementing competency-based learning and teaching. Large-Scale Achievement Survey: Survey Details: Conducted the State Educational Achievement Survey in November 2023, assessing students in Grades 3, 6, and 9 across 30 States/UTs. Purpose: To monitor and evaluate educational competencies in foundational literacy, numeracy, language, and mathematics. Equivalence of School Boards: Standardization: Working on standardizing examination reforms across all Indian school boards. Workshops and Reports: Data collection on administration, curriculum, assessments, and infrastructure. National workshops were held to draft policy recommendations for equivalence. Goal: To align credit points for academic, vocational, and experiential learning. Holistic Progress Cards (HPC): Evaluation Method: Moving away from marks or grades, HPC will use a 360-degree evaluation approach. Assessment: Regular assessments through class activities that require active student participation and application of diverse skills and competencies. Significance: Addressing Score Disparities: Aims to mitigate score differences among students from various boards, impacting college admissions. Technical Standards: Establishes standards for test design, administration, analysis, and reporting at all schooling levels. 21st Century Skills: Encourages schools to adapt assessments to meet modern skill requirements. Recommendations: Performance Weightage: Classes 9-12: Incorporate performance from Classes 9, 10, and 11 into the Class 12 report card with specified weightages: 15% for Class 9, 20% for Class 10, 25% for Class 11, and 40% for Class 12. Assessment Combination: Formative Assessments: Continuous assessments (e.g., holistic progress cards, group discussions, projects). Summative Assessments: Term-end examinations. Weight Distribution by Class: Class 9: 70% formative, 30% summative. Class 10: 50% formative, 50% summative. Class 11: 40% formative, 60% summative. Class 12: 30% formative, 70% summative. Credit System: Credits: Students can earn 40 credits in Classes 9 and 10 each, and 44 credits in Classes 11 and 12 each. Subject-Specific Credits: In Classes 9 and 10, 32 credits are subject-specific (e.g., 12 credits in languages, 4 in mathematics). Credit Transfer System: Recommendation: Development of a credit transfer system aligned with the National Credit Framework. -Source: Indian Express Phase IV of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) Context: Finance Minister announced Phase IV of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) to connect 25,000 villages with all-weather roads, and allocated an outlay of Rs 19,000 crore for the financial year 2024-25. Relevance: GS II: Government Policies and Interventions Dimensions of the Article: Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) is a nationwide plan in India to provide good all-weather road connectivity to unconnected villages. This Centrally Sponsored Scheme was introduced in 2000. The PMGSY is under the authority of the Ministry of Rural Development. PMGSY – Phase I PMGSY – Phase I was launched in 2000 as a 100 % centrally sponsored scheme with an objective to provide single all-weather road connectivity to eligible unconnected habitation of designated population size for overall socio-economic development of the areas. PMGSY – Phase II The Phase II of PMGSY was approved in 2013, and while the ongoing PMGSY – I continued – under PMGSY phase II, the roads already built for village connectivity was to be upgraded to enhance rural infrastructure. For the 12th Five Year Plan period a target of 50,000 Km length under PMGSY-II. 75 per cent of the cost of the upgradation was by the Centre and 25 per cent by the state. For hill states, desert areas, Schedule V areas and Naxal-affected districts, 90 per cent of cost was borne by the Centre. PMGSY – Phase III The Phase III was approved by the Cabinet in 2019. It involves consolidation of Through Routes and Major Rural Links connecting habitations to Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs), Higher Secondary Schools and Hospitals. Under the PMGSY-III Scheme, it is proposed to consolidate 1,25,000 Km road length in the States, and the duration of the scheme is 2019-20 to 2024-25. The funds would be shared in the ratio of 60:40 between the Centre and State for all States except for 8 North Eastern and 3 Himalayan States (Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh & Uttarakhand) for which it is 90:10. PMGSY – Phase IV Announcement: Phase IV of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) was introduced in the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25. Objective: To connect 25,000 villages with all-weather roads. Budget Allocation: Rs 19,000 crore has been allocated for this phase for the financial year 2024-25 (FY-25). -Source: Indian Express Quad Ministerial Meeting in Tokyo Context: A recent Quad Ministerial Meeting in Tokyo featured key diplomats: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar of India, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa. Following the meeting, they issued a joint statement expressing anticipation for the upcoming Quad summit in India. The statement emphasized the summit’s role in strengthening collaborative efforts and reiterated their commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. The ministers highlighted the importance of their partnership in tackling regional and global challenges, underscoring the shared values and strategic interests of the Quad nations. Relevance: GS II- International Relations Dimensions of the Article: About QUAD What were the objectives of the grouping? Quad Initiatives What are the future plans of the Quad? About QUAD The Quad is an informal strategic forum comprising four nations, namely –India, United States of America, Australia and Japan. One of the primary objectives of the Quad is, to work for a free, open, prosperous and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. The group for the first time met in 2007 on the side lines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). It is considered an alliance of maritime democracies. The forum is maintained through meetings, semi-regular summits, information exchanges, and military drills of all the member countries. The motive behind the Quad is, to keep the strategic sea routes in the Indo-Pacific, free of any military or political influence. The core objective of the Quad is, to secure a rules-based global order, freedom of navigation and, a liberal trading system. The coalition also aims to offer, alternative debt financing for nations in the Indo-Pacific region. Purpose of Quad: Recently the U.S. has clarified that Quad is not a security or military partnership. Its purpose is to advance cooperation on key priorities in specific sectors that is consistent with international law It promotes shared values of its members and underpins peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. A U.S. State Department spokesperson said that “We work to support the rule of law, freedom of navigation and overflight, peaceful resolution of disputes, democratic values, and territorial integrity through open dialogue and information sharing on a diverse set of issue areas, including Maritime Security”. Significance of Quad: Quad is becoming a powerful mechanism and its significance is given below: Helping to vaccinate a big part of the world and getting a lot of vaccines out there, Strengthening maritime security to push back against aggression and coercion in the Indo-Pacific region, Working together on emerging technologies and making sure that they can be used in positive ways and an increasingly broad and deep agenda. It also supports many activities/platforms as part of its shared approach to the Indo-Pacific. What were the objectives of the grouping? Coming together to foster a free and open Indo-Pacific formed the bedrock of cooperation.  Emphasis was laid on “rule of law, territorial integrity, freedom of navigation and overflight, peaceful resolution of disputes, and democratic values” in the region. The other areas of immediate focus were the pandemic through strengthening equitable vaccine access for the Indo-Pacific, combating climate change, sharing critical technologies, cyber security, supply chain resilience, and infrastructure and connectivity projects. Now it commits to promoting the free, open, rules-based order, rooted in international law and undaunted by coercion, to bolster security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. Quad Initiatives: Quad leaders launched the Quad Vaccine Initiative (QVI) with the aim of manufacturing and distributing at least a billion COVID-19 vaccines for the Asia region by the end of 2022.  As for emerging technologies, the four countries aimed to work on the development and diversification of 5G telecommunications and the creation of supply chains for critical minerals and technologies for making semiconductors used in smartphones, another area where China is a leader. Quad nations had also agreed to build joint connectivity projects and transparent infrastructure funding for countries in the region. The emphasis on connectivity saw the Quad challenge China in another sphere: a coordinated effort to provide financing and sustainable alternatives to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has led many nations to take loans and accept infrastructure bids from Beijing. The Quad also created a working group for combating climate change which would oversee efforts to foster green shipping by decarbonising maritime supply chains and promoting the use of clean hydrogen. What are the future plans of the Quad? The Leaders will review the progress of Quad initiatives and Working Groups, identify new areas of cooperation and provide strategic guidance and vision for future collaboration. The Quad summit is expected to discuss the Russian war in Ukraine, and the impact of three months of Western sanctions. US also unveiled the ‘Indo-Pacific Economic Framework’ (IPEF) which is a programme to bind countries in the region more closely through common standards. Quad members also launched a maritime monitoring plan to curb illegal fishing in the Indo-Pacific. -Source: The Hindu Saffron Crop Context: The erratic weather patterns have led many farmers to convert their saffron fields into apple orchards or to grow mustard crops in Kashmir. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture Saffron Crop Overview: Saffron is known as one of the costliest herbal spices globally, often referred to as “Red Gold” or the “Golden Condiment.” The commercial part used from the saffron flower is the stigma, also known as saffron filament, thread, or stigmata. Botanical Characteristics: Saffron seeds, called corms or bulbs, regenerate the plant through vegetative multiplication. The plant contains key compounds such as crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal, which are valued for both medicinal and aesthetic purposes. Distribution: Native to Greece and Asia Minor, saffron is now cultivated in various parts of Europe (notably Italy, France, and Spain), China, and India. In India, approximately 90% of saffron production is concentrated in Kashmir, where it has a long history of cultivation. Climatic and Soil Requirements: Elevation: Saffron thrives at elevations of 1,500-2,000 meters above mean sea level. Temperature: It requires specific climatic conditions, with summer temperatures not exceeding 35°C to 40°C and winter temperatures as low as -15°C to -20°C. Climate Types: Suitable for dry, moderate, and continental climates. Soil: Saffron grows best in loamy, sandy, and calcareous soils, with a preference for acidic conditions, thriving in soil pH ranging from 5.5 to 8.5. -Source: The Hindu Charles Darwin’s frog Context: Researchers said the lack of adequate breeding sites due to habitat loss and competition for limited resources may be driving the Charles Darwin’s frog to breed in unnatural sites. Relevance: Facts for Prelims Charles Darwin’s Frog Habitat: This species is endemic to the Andaman Islands. Family: Belongs to the family Dicroglossidae, a large group of Asian frogs with over 220 species. Reproductive Behavior: Both male and female frogs adopt an inverted position on the walls of tree cavities during mating and egg-laying, keeping their bodies above the water. Males produce three types of ‘complex’ calls to attract females. When faced with competition from other males, they may engage in aggressive behaviors such as kicking, boxing, and biting, sometimes resulting in significant injuries. Conservation Status: Classified as “Vulnerable” by the IUCN. Current Concerns: The species is increasingly using artificial objects, such as plastic sapling bags and human trash, as breeding sites. This shift is likely due to the loss and fragmentation of forest habitats, forcing the frogs to adapt to a rapidly changing environment on these small islands. -Source: The Hindu

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 30 July 2024

CONTENTS World Hepatitis Day 21st Edition of Khaan Quest World Hepatitis Day Context: World Hepatitis Day, observed on 28th July, raises awareness of viral hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver that causes severe liver disease and cancer. Relevance: GS II: Health Dimensions of the Article: World Hepatitis Day: Hepatitis: Types, Causes, and Symptoms World Hepatitis Day: Date: July 28th. Significance of the Date: Chosen to honor Nobel-prize winning scientist Dr. Baruch Blumberg, who discovered the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and developed a diagnostic test and vaccine for it. Theme for 2024: “It’s time for action.” Hepatitis: Types, Causes, and Symptoms Hepatitis refers to the inflammation of the liver, a vital organ responsible for detoxification, protein synthesis, and the production of biochemicals necessary for digestion. It can be caused by various factors, including viral infections, alcohol consumption, and autoimmune diseases. There are several types of hepatitis, each with different causes, symptoms, and treatments. Types of Hepatitis Hepatitis A (HAV) Cause: Hepatitis A virus (HAV) transmitted through contaminated food, water, or direct contact with an infected person. Symptoms: Fever, fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), dark urine, and clay-colored stools. It does not lead to chronic illness. Hepatitis B (HBV) Cause: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, or other body fluids, as well as from mother to baby during childbirth. Symptoms: Similar to HAV but can lead to chronic illness, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer if left untreated. Hepatitis C (HCV) Cause: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmitted primarily through blood-to-blood contact, such as sharing needles or other drug-injection equipment. Symptoms: Often asymptomatic in the early stages but can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer over time. Hepatitis D (HDV) Cause: Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a defective virus that requires HBV for replication. It is transmitted through contact with infected blood or other body fluids. Symptoms: Similar to HBV but often more severe. It can lead to a more rapid progression to liver cirrhosis and liver failure. Hepatitis E (HEV) Cause: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) transmitted mainly through contaminated water. Symptoms: Similar to HAV, including jaundice, fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain. It typically resolves on its own but can be severe in pregnant women. Common Symptoms of Hepatitis Fatigue Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes) Abdominal pain or discomfort Nausea and vomiting Loss of appetite Dark urine and pale stools Joint pain Fever 21st Edition of Khaan Quest Context: Recently, the Indian contingent participated in the 21st edition of Khaan Quest, a multinational peacekeeping exercise, being held from 27th July 2024 to 9th August 2024 in the Five Hills Training Area in the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar. Relevance: GS III: Security Challenges 21st Edition of Khaan Quest: Purpose: The exercise aims to develop interoperability and share best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures for joint operations among participating countries. It prepares the Indian Armed Forces for peacekeeping missions in a multinational environment, enhancing interoperability and military readiness under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. Indian Contingent: Comprises 40 personnel from a Battalion of the Madras Regiment, along with additional members. Participants: Approximately 430 participants from 23 countries, including Australia, Canada, China, Japan, Turkiye, the United States, and the United Kingdom. History: Khaan Quest began as a bilateral event between the U.S. and Mongolian armed forces in 2003 and became a multinational peacekeeping exercise from 2006 onwards.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 30 July 2024

CONTENTS Defending Disability Reservations Any Further Delay in Census is Perilous Defending Disability Reservations Context: The recent controversy surrounding a civil servant, who allegedly misrepresented her disability and caste to gain benefits, has sparked a debate about the reservations provided to persons with disabilities (PwDs). The issue gained momentum when a former CEO of NITI Aayog tweeted that reservations for PwDs should be reconsidered. Relevance: GS2- Issues Related to Disability Government Policies & Interventions Constitutional Bodies Role of Civil Services in a Democracy GS4- Aptitude and Foundational Values for Civil Service Mains Question: PwDs face multiple barriers to their effective participation in society and the workforce. However, questions have been raised on the reservation provided to them recently. In this context, discuss the challenges faced by PwDs. Analyse the role that reservation can play in easing their difficulties. (15 Marks, 250 Words). Deep-seated Ableism: PwDs encounter numerous barriers to effectively participating in society and the workforce. These include infrastructural challenges, an education system, and exam formats designed for able-bodied individuals. Reservation policies aim to create a level playing field by providing equitable opportunities for PwDs. The fact that a few individuals exploit these benefits should not overshadow the broader purpose and impact of such policies. Broad generalizations based on isolated incidents are unfair and counterproductive. Some officers have questioned whether PwDs holding positions within the civil services have the “physical fitness” to perform their duties. Such statements reflect the unconscious bias many people have against PwDs. PwDs continue to face challenges in both education and employment, yet these issues are rarely highlighted. The 76th round of the National Sample Survey in 2018 revealed that only 23.8% of PwDs were employed, while the national Labor Force Participation Rate was 50.2% that year. This disparity can be attributed to a lack of access to accessible education, stigma and biases during hiring, and insufficient reasonable accommodation in the workplace for PwDs. These structural problems are rarely highlighted by those who question the legitimacy of affirmative action for PwDs. For example, a candidate who has muscular dystrophy, has not been assigned a position despite passing the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) civil service exam four times. Similarly, other candidate had to go to the Central Administrative Tribunal to secure her rightful posting, even though she ranked first in the civil service exams, due to her disability. These are the instances that should awaken the conscience of our intellectuals. Potential Misuse: In a related matter, the Supreme Court examined the potential misuse of scribes in the Vikash Kumar v. UPSC (2021) case. There was concern that if persons with disabilities (PwDs) are allowed to choose their scribes and their disability percentage is below 40%, they might abuse this provision. The Court responded by saying: “If incidents arise where able-bodied candidates are found hiding chits in their dress code and using them to cheat during an exam, the appropriate response is to impose punitive measures on such students. The solution is not to switch to a different dress code that is so uncomfortable that it prevents many capable students from sitting for the entire exam duration and performing to the best of their ability.” This same principle should apply to reservations for PwDs. Certification System: India’s disability certification system has notable flaws. The method of quantifying disabilities by percentage is outdated and not aligned with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Assessment should be based on functional limitations rather than medical percentages. Moreover, the UPSC requires a separate and independent disability assessment, which disregards the government-recognized certification process that results in the issuance of a disability certificate and Unique Disability ID (UDID). This can cause contradictory outcomes between the two sets of assessments. Another issue is the shortage of specialists to evaluate various disabilities, making the certification process inaccessible and time-consuming. The state’s complex assessment guidelines are often impractical for district hospitals, which lack adequate infrastructure and resources. This leaves the evaluation of disability and its extent open to interpretation. Psychosocial disabilities, which require more subjective assessment, are evaluated using the outdated IDEAS (Indian Disability Evaluation and Assessment Scale). In many cases, these tests are not even conducted. Individuals with invisible, hidden, or less apparent disabilities, such as blood disorders, often face rejection because they “do not look disabled.” Conclusion: The focus should be on addressing these systemic issues. Civil servants’ recent alleged fraudulent activities should be met with strict punishment. This is the solution, not an unjustified review of the reservation system that provides essential support to a marginalized group. Any Further Delay in Census is Perilous Context: When the Central Government did not extend the June 30, 2024 deadline to freeze administrative boundaries for the Census, it raised hopes that the decennial Census operations, originally set to start in 2020 in preparation for Census 2021, might finally begin in October 2024. It typically takes about three months after the boundaries are established to make the extensive preparations required for fieldwork. Relevance: GS1- Population and Associated Issues GS2- Government Policies & Interventions Mains Question: Highlight the origin and evolution of the decennial census in India. What have been the repercussions of the delay in census after 2011? (10 Marks, 150 Words). Census on Hold: However, these hopes were dashed when the Budget 2024-25 recently allocated ₹1,309.46 crore for the Census, a significant decrease from the ₹3,768 crore allocated in 2021-22 for the decadal exercise, suggesting it may not proceed even after the substantial delay. Consequently, the next Census remains on hold, with the government yet to announce a new schedule. An absolute Necessity: Conducting the Census promptly is essential because, without a Census since 2011, a large portion of the country’s population is unable to access various schemes, benefits, and services. Furthermore, implementing the women’s Reservation Act, passed by Parliament last year to reserve 33% of seats in Parliament and Assemblies for women, depends on conducting the Census. Preliminary preparations for the Census, such as updating maps and lists of administrative areas, pre-testing draft Census questionnaires, training officers and core staff who will train the large number of field staff to collect Census data digitally via a mobile app, and planning the fieldwork, logistics, and budgeting, have been underway in the Census Directorates in States and Union Territories for the past few years in anticipation of conducting a Census. A visit to the Census Directorate of Tamil Nadu in Chennai and conversations with officials reveals they are ready to undertake the task once a new Census date is set. They only need quick refresher training. The ₹1,309.46 crore allocated in the 2024-25 budget could be used by the Census department to carry out several preliminary activities, such as finalizing enumeration areas, questionnaire completion, refresher training of core staff for the proposed digital Census, and the tabulation plan. The Constitution (Eighty-fourth Amendment) Act of 2001 was specifically enacted to prevent the delimitation of constituencies until the first Census conducted after 2026. If the Centre is considering conducting the Census in 2027 and using the population figures for delimitation purposes, then the Census reference date should be announced soon, along with a new deadline for freezing the boundaries of administrative units by the State governments and Union Territory administration. Clarifications: To build a comprehensive database of usual residents in the country, the National Population Register (NPR) was initially prepared in 2010 during the Houselisting and Housing Census phase of Census 2011. It was updated in 2015 to reflect changes due to births, deaths, and migration. This process was conducted under the Citizenship Act, 1955. The NPR will be updated again during the Houselisting and Housing Census Operations (Phase 1) of the upcoming Census. The draft form of the NPR for the next Census includes questions such as “mother tongue, place of birth of father and mother, and last place of residence,” which were not part of the NPR prepared for the 2011 Census in 2010. Some States and citizen groups have opposed these new questions, as they view the NPR as the first step toward compiling the National Register of Citizens (NRC), according to the Citizenship Rules 2003. However, the Centre has clarified that NPR data will not be used in preparing the NRC. The Centre must decide whether to retain or remove the contentious questions in the NPR format for the first phase of the upcoming Census. On Caste Information: There is a growing demand for the Centre to conduct a caste-based census to accurately assess the economic well-being of marginalized communities. In an affidavit filed in the Supreme Court of India on September 23, 2021, the Union Government stated that a caste census (except for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, which is traditionally done) was unfeasible and “administratively difficult and cumbersome.” Conclusion: The Centre now needs to decide whether or not to collect caste information in the next Census. It is crucial that sufficient provisions are made in the 2025-26 Census Budget to ensure that the delayed 2021 Census can be held as soon as possible, ideally in 2026, following the completion of the first phase in 2025, which would include house listing, the housing census, and updating the National Population Register (NPR).

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 30 July 2024

CONTENTS India’s Success in CITES Review of Agarwood SOFI 2024 Report Highlights Global Food Security and Nutrition Trends Supreme Court to Hear Landmark “Right to be Forgotten” Case Karnataka High Court Quashes POCSO Proceedings with Caveat Tell Umm Amer Heritage site Green Climate Fund Manu Bhaker’s Olympic victory at Paris 2024 India’s Success in CITES Review of Agarwood Context: India has successfully prevented the inclusion of Aquilaria malaccensis (agarwood) in the Review of Significant Trade (RST) of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The CITES also notified a new export quota of highly valuable and aromatic resinous wood and oil of agarwood from India starting April 2024. Relevance: GS III: Environment and Ecology Dimensions of the Article: CITES Eases Export of Agarwood from India About Aquilaria malaccensis (Agarwood) What is the CITES? Review of Significant Trade (RST) of CITES CITES Eases Export of Agarwood from India Prevention of Inclusion in RST: Significance: India has successfully prevented the inclusion of agarwood (Aquilaria malaccensis) in the Review of Significant Trade (RST) process of CITES, which could have imposed stricter trade regulations. Impact: This decision benefits millions of farmers in Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, and Tripura, who rely on agarwood cultivation for their livelihood. Study by Botanical Survey of India (BSI): Non-Detriment Finding (NDF): The removal of agarwood from the RST was achieved through an NDF study by BSI under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). Findings and Recommendations: Restrictions: Harvesting, collection of seeds, and other propagules are restricted from wild populations, protected areas, and reserve forests. Permitted Harvesting: Harvesting is allowed from home gardens, community gardens, plantations on leased or patta lands, and private or community plantations. Export Quotas: For 2024–2027, the NDF recommends an export quota of 151,080 kg per year for agarwood chips and powder/sawdust, and 7,050 kg per year for agarwood oil. Trade and Market Implications: Previous Restrictions: Long periods without an export quota and other trade restrictions led to increased informal trade and higher global prices for agarwood products. Current Situation: Despite an export quota since November 2021, stringent legal restrictions hindered legal trade, pushing many growers towards informal markets. About Aquilaria malaccensis (Agarwood): Botanical and Economic Significance: Description: Aquilaria malaccensis, known as agarwood, belongs to the Thymelaeaceae family and is valued for its aromatic resinous wood. Aromatic Resin: The resin is produced in response to mold infection and is highly prized for its distinctive fragrance, used in perfumes, incense, and traditional medicine. Uses: Perfumes and Incense: Widely used in the fragrance industry for its unique and enduring scent. Traditional Medicine: Employed in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine for its potential therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects. Spiritual Practices: Utilized in various cultures for spiritual and meditative purposes due to its calming properties. Conservation Status: CITES Listing: Listed in Appendix II of CITES since 1995, which means while it is not immediately threatened with extinction, trade must be regulated to prevent overexploitation. What is the CITES? CITES is an international agreement between governments. Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten the survival of the species. Its website states it was agreed upon with the recognition that “The trade in wild animals and plants crosses borders between countries, the effort to regulate it requires international cooperation to safeguard certain species from over-exploitation.” It accords varying degrees of protection to more than 37,000 species of animals and plants, ranging from live animals and plants to wildlife products derived from them, including food products, exotic leather goods, medicines, etc. Currently, there are 184 parties to the convention, including India. The CITES Secretariat is administered by UNEP (The United Nations Environment Programme) and is located in Geneva, Switzerland. The Conference of the Parties to CITES is the supreme consensus-based decision-making body of the Convention and comprises all its parties. In India, apart from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau is a statutory body under the Ministry that is especially meant to combat organised wildlife crime in the country. It assists and advises the customs authorities in the inspection of the consignments of flora and fauna as per the provisions of the Wild Life Protection Act of 1972, CITES and the export and import policy governing items. How does CITES work? The species covered under CITES are listed in three Appendices, according to the degree of protection they need. Appendix I includes species threatened with extinction. Trade in specimens of these species is permitted rarely, only in “exceptional circumstances”, such as gorillas, and lions from India. Appendix II includes species not necessarily threatened with extinction, but in which trade must be controlled to ensure their survival. For example, certain kinds of foxes and Hippopotamuses. Appendix III contains species that are protected in at least one country, which has asked other CITES Parties for assistance in controlling the trade, like the Bengal fox or the Golden Jackal from India. Different procedures are given category-wise to engage in the trade of species in each of the lists. Review of Significant Trade (RST) of CITES: Purpose and Process: Objective: The RST process under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) is aimed at ensuring that international trade in certain species does not threaten their survival and is sustainable. Identification of Species: Species are selected for review based on trade data, reports from CITES member countries, or concerns raised by CITES scientific committees. Assessment: The status of these species is evaluated to determine whether trade levels are sustainable and compliant with CITES regulations. Assessment and Recommendations: Review Findings: If the assessment reveals that trade poses a risk to the species’ survival, recommendations are made to the countries involved. These recommendations aim to address issues related to trade management and conservation. Recommended Actions: These can include: Export Quotas: Setting limits on the quantity of specimens that can be exported to ensure sustainability. Legislative Improvements: Enhancing national laws and regulations to better protect species. Enforcement Measures: Strengthening enforcement to combat illegal trade and ensure compliance with CITES regulations. Impact and Goals: Conservation Focus: The RST process helps in implementing conservation measures that are tailored to the specific needs of species identified as at risk due to trade. Global Cooperation: It promotes international cooperation and commitment to sustainable trade practices and species protection. -Source: The Hindu SOFI 2024 Report Highlights Global Food Security and Nutrition Trends Context: Recently, the “State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2024” (SOFI 2024) report, published by FAO, IFAD, UNICEF, WFP, and WHO, presents a critical analysis of global food security and nutrition trends. This year’s report emphasizes the urgent need for increased financing to end hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition in all its forms. Relevance: GS II: Health Dimensions of the Article: Key Findings of the SOFI 2024 Report Key Highlights Related to India Key Recommendations in the Report Key Findings of the SOFI 2024 Report Global Hunger and Food Insecurity: Hunger Statistics: Between 713 and 757 million people faced hunger in 2023, translating to one out of eleven people globally and one out of every five people in Africa. Food Insecurity: Around 2.33 billion people experienced moderate or severe food insecurity in 2023, with more than 864 million facing severe food insecurity. Cost and Affordability of Healthy Diets: Cost Increase: The global average cost of a healthy diet rose to USD 3.96 per person per day in 2022, but the number of people unable to afford such a diet decreased to 2.83 billion. Regional Disparities: The highest diet costs are in Latin America and the Caribbean, while Oceania has the lowest. There has been uneven recovery in diet affordability, with significant setbacks in Africa. Nutritional Status and Public Health: Child Nutrition: Improvements in reducing stunting and wasting among children under five are noted, though progress remains insufficient to meet the 2030 targets. Breastfeeding Rates: Exclusive breastfeeding rates have increased but remain below the 2030 targets. Obesity and Anaemia: Global obesity rates are rising, and anaemia in women aged 15-49 is increasing, posing significant public health challenges. Public Spending: Current public spending on food security and nutrition is inadequate, especially in low-income countries, and private financing is challenging to track. Key Highlights Related to India Undernourishment and Diet Affordability: Undernourished Population: India is home to 194.6 million undernourished individuals, the highest globally. The number has decreased from 240 million in 2004-06. Healthy Diet Affordability: 55.6% of Indians (790 million people) cannot afford a healthy diet, though this proportion has improved by about 3 percentage points from 2022. Chronic Undernourishment: 13% of India’s population suffers from chronic undernourishment. Nutritional Issues: Global Hunger Index: India ranks 111th in the Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2023, reflecting significant food security issues. Child Nutrition: India has the highest prevalence of wasting (18.7%) and a high rate of stunting (31.7%) in children under five years. Low Birth Weight: 27.4% of babies born in India have low birth weight, the highest globally, indicating maternal malnutrition. Anaemia: 53% of women in India are anaemic, the highest in South Asia, contributing to the rising global prevalence of anaemia in women aged 15-49. Obesity Rates: Obesity prevalence in children under five years is 2.8%, and in adults, it has risen to 7.3%. Physical inactivity contributes to rising obesity rates. Food Quality: High consumption of ultra-processed foods is linked to poor health outcomes, and many food products from top global manufacturers are considered unhealthy by WHO standards. Public Spending and Impacts: Spending on Food Security: While there has been some increase in public spending on food security and nutrition, there is a need for more effective allocation and utilization of resources. Covid-19 Impact: The pandemic has exacerbated food insecurity and malnutrition, impacting food access, affordability, and supply chains. Key Recommendations in the Report Increasing Public and Private Investment: Public Spending: Boost budgets for hunger and malnutrition reduction programs, and involve local communities for improved effectiveness and sustainability. Private Investment: Encourage private sector investment through innovative financing mechanisms like social bonds and green bonds. Strengthening Global and National Policies: Global Partnerships: Enhance global cooperation and align national policies with international frameworks to improve knowledge exchange and resource allocation. Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Invest in climate-resilient agricultural practices, including drought-resistant crops and sustainable farming techniques. Improving Agrifood Systems: Efficiency and Sustainability: Improve infrastructure, logistics, and market access to reduce food loss and waste. Addressing Nutritional Challenges: Integrated Nutrition Programs: Implement programs addressing both undernutrition and overnutrition, promoting balanced diets and physical activity. Support for Vulnerable Groups: Focus on supporting small farmers, women, and children, and improve nutrition through exclusive breastfeeding and essential vitamins and minerals. Enhancing Data Collection: Better Data Integration: Improve data collection and integration with national databases for better policy-making and targeted interventions. -Source: Down To Earth Supreme Court to Hear Landmark “Right to be Forgotten” Case Context: Last week, the Supreme Court agreed to hear a case that will likely shape the contours of the “right to be forgotten” in India, similar to the “right to erasure” in European information privacy regulation. The Court must decide whether this right is fundamental in India and how it relates to other constitutional rights. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: The Right to Be Forgotten Interpretation in India Judicial Rulings in India The Right to Be Forgotten Definition: The right to be forgotten allows individuals to request the removal of their personal data from search engines and other online platforms if it violates their right to privacy or if the information is no longer relevant. Origin: This right was recognized by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) in May 2014 in the “Google Spain case,” where the court ruled that search engines must remove outdated or irrelevant data upon request. EU Framework: Articles 7 (right to private and family life) and 8 (protection of personal data) of the EU Charter on Fundamental Rights, and Article 17 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) support this right.  Interpretation in India: Legal Status: India does not have a specific statutory framework for the right to be forgotten. However, the right to privacy, which includes aspects of the right to be forgotten, was recognized as a fundamental right by the Supreme Court of India in the 2017 Puttaswamy case. Judicial Insights: Justice S.K. Kaul, in his concurring opinion, acknowledged that the right to be forgotten allows individuals to remove personal data when it is no longer relevant or accurate. He also mentioned valid exceptions such as public interest and freedom of expression.  Judicial Rulings in India: Rajagopal vs. State of Tamil Nadu (1994): The Supreme Court recognized a “right to be let alone,” emphasizing privacy in personal matters but distinguishing it from public records, which are subject to public scrutiny. Dharamraj Bhanushankar Dave vs. State Of Gujarat (2017): The Gujarat High Court denied a request to remove details of an acquittal from public records, maintaining that court orders should remain accessible. [Name Redacted] vs. The Registrar General (2017): The Karnataka High Court supported protecting a petitioner’s name in an annulment case, aligning with Western trends regarding sensitive cases. Jorawar Singh Mundy Case (2021): The Delhi High Court allowed the removal of details related to a criminal case from search results, citing potential harm to the petitioner’s social and professional life. Orissa High Court (2020): The court acknowledged the complexities of implementing the right to be forgotten and called for a broader debate on practical and technological issues. -Source: Indian Express Karnataka High Court Quashes POCSO Proceedings with Caveat Context: The Karnataka High Court has recently quashed proceedings under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 against a 23-year-old man accused of raping a minor, who he subsequently married. This decision includes a caveat allowing the criminal proceedings to be revived if the man abandons his wife and child in the future. This condition is aimed at ensuring the welfare and protection of the mother and child. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: How did the Court Justify the Quashing of the Case? About Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 Contention/Criticisms around implementation of POCSO About POCSO Amendment Act 2019 How did the Court Justify the Quashing of the Case? Nature of the Relationship: Relationship Context: The court took into account that the accused and the victim were in love, and the crime was reported after the families had agreed to their marriage. Both families supported the marriage, which influenced the court’s perspective on the case. Case Specifics: Heinous Nature of the Offense: One argument was that despite the crime being serious and punishable by ten years in prison, the case should not be quashed. The severity of the offense was cited as a reason for the matter to be taken to trial. Court’s Decision: Vulnerability of the Victim and Child: The court highlighted concerns about the victim and the child potentially facing societal stigma and jeopardy if the case was not resolved. The potential harm and vulnerability of the individuals involved were key considerations. Likelihood of Victim Turning Hostile: It was noted that the victim might turn hostile, which would undermine the chances of convicting the accused, making the trial less effective. Ground Realities and Prolonged Agony: The court acknowledged that prolonging the criminal trial could cause undue emotional and psychological suffering for all parties involved. The eventual acquittal, if any, would be overshadowed by the distress caused during the prolonged legal process. About Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 was enacted to provide a robust legal framework for the protection of children from offences of sexual assault, sexual harassment and pornography, while safeguarding the interest of the child at every stage of the judicial process. The framing of the Act seeks to put children first by making it easy to use by including mechanisms for child-friendly reporting, recording of evidence, investigation and speedy trial of offences through designated Special Courts. The Act provides for a variety of offences under which an accused can be punished. It recognises forms of penetration other than penile-vaginal penetration and criminalises acts of immodesty against children too. Offences under the act include: Penetrative Sexual Assault: Insertion of penis/object/another body part in child’s vagina/urethra/anus/mouth, or asking the child to do so with them or some other person Sexual Assault: When a person touches the child, or makes the child touch them or someone else Sexual Harassment: passing sexually coloured remark, sexual gesture/noise, repeatedly following, flashing, etc. Child Pornography Aggravated Penetrative Sexual Assault/ Aggravated Sexual Assault Salient features of the Act The act is gender-neutral for both children and for the accused. With respect to pornography, the Act criminalises even watching or collection of pornographic content involving children. The Act makes abetment of child sexual abuse an offence. Defines a child as any person below eighteen years of age Provides for mandatory reporting of sexual offences, keeping with the best international child protection standards. Police cast in the role of child protectors during the investigative process: The police personnel receiving a report of sexual abuse of a child are given the responsibility of making urgent arrangements for the care and protection of the child. Provisions for the medical examination of the child in a manner designed to cause as little distress as possible Provision of Special Courts: that conduct the trial in-camera and without revealing the identity of the child, in a child-friendly manner. Timely disposal of cases: A case of child sexual abuse must be disposed of within one year from the date the offence is reported. Recognition to a wide range of form of sexual abuse against children: as punishable offences. People who traffic children for sexual purposes are also punishable under the provisions relating to abetment in the Act. The Act prescribes stringent punishment graded as per the gravity of the offence, with a maximum term of rigorous imprisonment for life, and fine. Child-friendly process: It also provides for various procedural reforms, making the tiring process of trial in India considerably easier for children. The Act has been criticised as its provisions seem to criminalise consensual sexual intercourse between two people below the age of 18. Contention/Criticisms around implementation of POCSO Criticism in Definition of child The Act defines a child as a person under the age of 18 years. However, this definition is a purely biological one, and doesn’t take into account people who live with intellectual and psycho-social disability. A recent case in SC has been filed where a women of biological age 38yrs but mental age 6yrs was raped. The victim’s advocate argues that “failure to consider the mental age will be an attack on the very purpose of act.” SC has reserved the case for judgement and is determined to interpret whether the 2012 act encompasses the mental age or whether only biological age is inclusive in the definition. Issue with the Mandatory Reporting feature According to the Act, every crime of child sexual abuse should be reported. If a person who has information of any abuse fails to report, they may face imprisonment up to six months or may be fined or both. Many child rights and women rights organisation has criticised this provision. According to experts, this provision takes away agency of choice from children. There may be many survivors who do not want to go through the trauma of criminal justice system, but this provision does not differentiate. Furthermore, mandatory reporting may also hinder access to medical aid, and psycho-social intervention. It contradicts the right to confidentiality for access to medical, and psychological care. Contradiction with the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971 The POCSO Act was passed to strengthen legal provisions for the protection of children below 18 years of age from sexual abuse and exploitation. Under this Act, if any girl under 18 is seeking abortion the service provider is compelled to register a complaint of sexual assault with the police. However, under the MTP Act, it is not mandatory to report the identity of the person seeking an abortion. Consequently, service providers are hesitant to provide abortion services to girls under 18. Issue with Legal Aid Section 40 of the Act allows victims to access legal aid. However, that is subject to Code of Criminal Procedure. In other words, the lawyer representing a child can only assist the Public Prosecutor, and file written final arguments if the judge permits. Thus, the interest of the victim often go unrepresented. Issue with Consent The law presumes all sexual act with children under the age of 18 is sexual offence. Therefore, two adolescent who engage in consensual sexual act will also be punished under this law. This is especially a concern where adolescent is in relationship with someone from different caste, or religion. Parents have filed cases under this Act to ‘punish’ relationships they do not approve of. About POCSO Amendment Act 2019 Increases the minimum punishment (including death penalty) for penetrative sexual assault, aggravated penetrative sexual assault. The earlier amendment allowed the death penalty only in cases of sexual assault of girls below 12 years but now it will be applicable to boys also. Adds assault resulting in death of child, and assault committed during a natural calamity, or in any similar situations of violence into Aggravated penetrative sexual assault. Tightened the provisions to counter child pornography. While the earlier Act had punishment for storing child pornography for commercial purposes, the amendment includes punishment for possessing pornographic material in any form involving a child, even if the accused persons have failed to delete or destroy or report the same with an intention to share it. The Act defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a child including photograph, video, digital or computer-generated image indistinguishable from an actual child. -Source: Indian Express Tell Umm Amer Heritage site Context: The World Heritage Committee (WHC) decided to include the Palestinian site of Tell Umm Amer in both the UNESCO World Heritage Site List and the Lost of World Heritage in Danger during its 46th session in New Delhi. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: Tell Umm Amer Heritage Site UNESCO What are UNESCO World Heritage Sites? Tell Umm Amer Heritage Site: Location: Coastal dunes of the Nuseirat Municipality, 10 km south of Gaza city. Historical Significance: An ancient Christian monastery founded in the 4th century by Hilarion the Great (291-371 CE). Alternative Name: Monastery of Saint Hilarion. Importance: The first monastic community in the Holy Land, laying the groundwork for the spread of monastic practices in the region. Strategic Position: Located at the crossroads of major trade and communication routes between Asia and Africa. UNESCO: Full Form: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Type: Specialized agency of the United Nations (UN). Constitution: Entered into force in 1946, aimed at promoting international collaboration in education, science, and culture. Headquarters: Paris, France. Parent Organisation: United Nations Economic and Social Council. Primary Goals: Contribute to peace and security by promoting collaboration among nations through education, science, and culture. Promote sustainable development and intercultural dialogue. Building a more just, peaceful, and inclusive world through these areas. What are UNESCO World Heritage Sites? UNESCO World Heritage Site is a place that is recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as of distinctive cultural or physical importance which is considered of outstanding value to humanity. It may be a building, a city, a complex, a desert, a forest, an island, a lake, a monument, or a mountain. They have been inscribed on the World Heritage List to be protected for future generations to appreciate and enjoy as they have a special cultural or physical significance and outstanding universal value to the humanity. Italy is home to the greatest number of World Heritage Sites. At present, India has 38 World Heritage Properties. All the sites under the Ministry are conserved as per ASI’s Conservation Policy and are in good shape. More about selection and protection of World Heritage Sites The sites are judged to be important for the collective and preservative interests of humanity. To be selected, a WHS must be an already-classified landmark, unique in some respect as a geographically and historically identifiable place having special cultural or physical significance (such as an ancient ruin or historical structure, building, city, complex, desert, forest, island, lake, monument, mountain, or wilderness area). It may signify a remarkable accomplishment of humanity, and serve as evidence of our intellectual history on the planet. The sites are intended for practical conservation for posterity, which otherwise would be subject to risk from human or animal trespassing, unmonitored/uncontrolled/unrestricted access, or threat from local administrative negligence. The list is maintained by the international World Heritage Program administered by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, composed of 21 “states parties” that are elected by their General Assembly. UNESCO World Heritage Committee The World Heritage Committee selects the sites to be listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the World Heritage List and the List of World Heritage in Danger. It monitors the state of conservation of the World Heritage properties, defines the use of the World Heritage Fund and allocates financial assistance upon requests from States Parties. It is composed of 21 states parties that are elected by the General Assembly of States Parties for a four-year term. India is NOT a member of this Committee. -Source: The Hindu Green Climate Fund Context: Recently, the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) received approval of funding of $ 215.6 m from the Green Climate Fund for ‘financing mitigation and adaptation projects’ (FMAP). Relevance: Facts for Prelims Green Climate Fund (GCF): Overview: Establishment: The GCF was established at COP 16 in Cancun, 2010, as a key initiative under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Purpose: The GCF aims to support developing countries in their efforts to combat climate change by funding projects and programs that promote low-emission and climate-resilient development. Structure: It operates as a legally independent institution with a fully independent secretariat, led by an Executive Secretary. The Secretariat is based in Songdo, South Korea, and began its operations in December 2013. Function and Approach: Partnership Approach: The GCF uses a country-owned approach to accelerate transformative climate action in developing countries. This involves collaborating with national entities and leveraging flexible financing solutions. Expertise: The GCF provides climate investment expertise and supports projects that integrate both mitigation and adaptation measures. Financing Mitigation and Adaptation Project (FMAP): Objective: The FMAP aims to provide nearly 10,000 concessional loans to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to promote the adoption of low-emission and climate-resilient technologies. Impact: Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction: The project is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 35.3 million tonnes, contributing significantly to climate change mitigation efforts. Background: Previous Projects: This is the second project approved by the GCF led by the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI). The first project, the Avaana Sustainability Fund, focuses on helping startups access climate finance. -Source: The Hindu Manu Bhaker’s Olympic victory at Paris 2024 Context: Recently, Manu Bhaker won a bronze medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event at the Paris 2024 Olympics.  Relevance: Facts for Prelims Manu Bhaker’s Olympic victory at Paris 2024 Manu Bhaker’s Olympic victory at Paris 2024 is a significant milestone for Indian shooting. Her accomplishments extend beyond this, reflecting a remarkable career. Here’s a summary of her achievements: Olympic Success: First Indian female shooter to win an Olympic medal. First female shooter to reach an Olympic final in an individual event in 20 years. Fifth Indian shooter to win an Olympic medal, following Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore (2004), Abhinav Bindra (2008), Vijay Kumar (2012), and Gagan Narang (2012). Notable Achievements: National Shooting Championships 2017: Won 9 gold medals and set a record in the 10m Air Pistol final. 2018: Gold medal at the Commonwealth Games; gold in Women’s 10m Air Pistol at ISSF World Cup in Guadalajara. Asian Games 2022: Secured medals. World Championship, Baku 2023: Medaled. Asian Shooting Championship, Changwon 2023: Medaled. World Cup, Bhopal 2023: Medaled. World Championship, Cairo 2022: Medaled. World University Games, Chengdu 2021: Secured medals. -Source: The Hindu

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 29 July 2024

CONTENTS E-Upahaar Portal Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre E-Upahaar Portal Context: Rashtrapati Bhavan will auction selected gift items, presented to the President and former Presidents on various occasions, through an online portal called E-Upahaar. Relevance: GS II: Government Policies and Interventions E-Upahaar Portal Overview: Purpose: The E-Upahaar portal serves as an auction platform for gift items presented to the President of India and former Presidents. It is managed by the President’s Secretariat (Office of the President of India), Rashtrapati Bhavan. Launch Date: July 25, 2024. Development: The portal was conceptualized, designed, developed, and is hosted by the National Informatics Centre (NIC), which operates under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). Objectives: Citizen Engagement: Enhance interaction with citizens by offering them a chance to participate in auctions. Support Noble Causes: All proceeds from the auctions are donated to help children in need, supporting charitable causes. National Informatics Centre (NIC) Establishment: Year: 1976. Objective: NIC was established to provide technology-driven solutions to both Central and State Governments in India. Key Responsibilities: E-Government Solutions: NIC focuses on offering e-Government solutions and support to various government departments. ICT Infrastructure: Setting up and managing ICT infrastructure for government use. e-Governance Projects: Implementation of national and state-level e-Governance projects/products. Consultancy: Providing consultancy services to government departments. Research & Development: Engaged in R&D activities to advance technology solutions for government operations. Network and Linkages: NICNET: An ICT network connecting all Ministries/Departments of the Central Government and 36 State Governments/Union Territories across India. Major Activities: Setting Up ICT Infrastructure: Developing and maintaining the technological framework required for effective governance. Implementation of e-Governance Projects: Supporting and rolling out various e-Governance initiatives at national and state levels. Consultancy Services: Offering expert advice and support to government entities on technology and information systems. Research & Development: Innovating and improving technology solutions to meet the evolving needs of government functions. Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre Context: Recently, India has taken over as the Chair of Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre (ADPC) for 2024-25. Relevance: Facts for Prelims Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre (ADPC) Overview: Established: 1986 Type: Autonomous international organization Headquarters: Bangkok, Thailand Geographical Scope: Asia and the Pacific region Vision: “Safer communities and sustainable development through disaster risk reduction” Mission and Objectives: Purpose: ADPC aims to foster cooperation and implement strategies for disaster risk reduction and climate resilience across Asia and the Pacific. Focus Areas: Disaster risk reduction, climate resilience, and sustainable development. Governance: Governing Bodies: The ADPC Charter outlines the governance structure, which includes: Board of Trustees: The primary governing body responsible for overall oversight. Executive Committee: Manages operational aspects. Advisory Council: Provides strategic guidance and expert advice. Regional Consultative Committee (RCC): Offers regional perspectives and recommendations. Membership: Founding Members: India, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. International Charter: Signed by the nine founding member countries; ratified and put into effect in 2018. Operational Structure: Headquarters: Located in Bangkok, Thailand. Sub-Centers: Operate in various countries of the region, facilitating on-ground activities and projects. Key Functions: Disaster Risk Reduction: Implementing strategies and programs to minimize disaster impacts. Climate Resilience Building: Enhancing the ability of communities to withstand and recover from climate-related disasters. Regional Cooperation: Encouraging collaboration among member countries for effective disaster management. Achievements and Activities: ADPC has been instrumental in developing disaster preparedness programs, climate resilience strategies, and providing technical assistance to member countries.

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