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Editorials & Articles – 2 March 2024

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Editorials & Articles – 2 March 2024

Change and continuity in India’s Palestine policy

Topic: GS2 – International Relations The article is crucial for UPSC aspirants, offering insights into India’s diplomatic strategy, geopolitical considerations, and evolving Middle East dynamics.
Context
●       The article discusses India’s evolving stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict, examining the historical context, government’s position, diplomatic shifts, and the impact on regional dynamics.

 India’s Historical Position on Palestine:

  • India historically supported the Palestine cause, even during the flourishing relationship with Israel in the past three decades.
  • Maintained a careful balance between the new partnership with Israel and the historical commitment to Palestine.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Response:

  • After the October 7 Hamas attack in Israel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed solidarity with Israel, stating he was “deeply shocked by the news of the terrorist attack.”
  • Modi’s visit to Israel in 2017 and his good personal chemistry with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicate a positive rapport.

Evolution of India’s Palestine Policy:

  • India’s Palestine policy evolved from initially voting against the partition of Palestine in 1947 to recognizing Israel in 1950 but stopping short of establishing full diplomatic relations.
  • India maintained support for a two-state solution, with Palestine having East Jerusalem as its capital and borders based on the 1967 lines.

India’s Evolving Position under Prime Minister Modi:

  • Modi’s visit to Ramallah in 2018 indicated a shift, calling for dialogue without explicitly addressing the status of Jerusalem or borders.
  • Realpolitik seems to displace the moral content of India’s Palestine policy under current government.

Post-October 7 Changes:

  • Analysis suggests India’s position of balancing between moral criticism and support for Israel has not shifted drastically.
  • India voted for resolutions condemning Israeli settlements, expressing concern over the occupation of Golan Heights, and supporting a Palestinian right to self-determination.

India’s Interests and Considerations:

  • India’s support for the Palestine cause, even if limited, is rooted in tangible national interests.
  • The ongoing humanitarian tragedy in Gaza, strong reactions in the Global South against Israel, and India’s aspiration to lead the Global South contribute to its stance.

Strategic Implications and Regional Dynamics:

  • The October 7 attack and Israel’s retaliatory war have affected India’s strategic plans in the region.
  • Further Arab-Israel reconciliation is on hold, impacting India’s cooperation with the Arabs, Israelis, and Americans.

India’s Diplomatic Statements:

  • External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar criticized Israel at the Munich Security Conference, stating that Israel “should be mindful of civilian casualties in Gaza.”
  • India emphasizes the importance of an immediate end to the war, restoration of order, and a permanent resolution to the Palestine question for stability in West Asia.

Conclusion:

  • India’s approach to the Palestine-Israel conflict reflects a nuanced stance, considering strategic, diplomatic, and regional factors.
  • Balancing historical commitments, evolving diplomatic dynamics, and national interests guide India’s position in the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.

 India’s burgeoning death penalty crisis

Topic: GS2 – Indian Polity – Judiciary Crucial for UPSC as it explores the surge in India’s death row, Supreme Court’s reform attempts, and systemic issues in sentencing.
Context
●       The article discusses the surge in India’s death row population, the Supreme Court’s efforts to reform death penalty sentencing, and the increasing number of acquittals, revealing systemic failures.

  Rising Death Row Population:

  • India’s death row population reached a record high of 561 by the end of 2023.
  • Supreme Court acquitted nearly 55% of death row prisoners in 2023, raising questions about the efficacy of death penalty sentencing.

Supreme Court’s Sentencing Reform Attempts:

  • In 2022, a Constitution Bench was convened to reform death penalty sentencing, indicating an initiative for change.
  • However, data reveals that trial courts continued to impose death sentences without following the directives from the Supreme Court.

High Court Reluctance and Acquittals:

  • High Courts showed reluctance in confirming death sentences, with only one confirmation in 2023.
  • Supreme Court’s acquittals of death row prisoners highlight systemic failures in police, prosecution, and trial courts.

Systemic Failures in Death Penalty Cases:

  • Acquittals were outcomes of fabricated evidence, manipulated reports, tampered forensic evidence, and dubious recoveries by the police.
  • Systemic problems within the administration of the death penalty were not acknowledged in the Court’s decisions.

Urgency for Systemic Recognition:

  • Growing number of acquittals emphasizes the urgent need to recognize systemic problems in the criminal justice system.
  • While the Court has addressed systemic concerns in sentencing, acquittals underscore broader issues in the death penalty administration.

State of Death Row Prisoners:

  • Death row prisoners live in constant fear, subjected to violence, ridicule, and humiliation within prisons.
  • Psychological ramifications persist even after acquittal or commutation, revealing the severe impact of the death row experience.

Increasing Death Row Population:

  • Despite acquittals, the death row population continues to rise due to trial courts’ unjustifiable use of the death penalty.
  • Project 39A’s report highlights a 15% decrease in High Court case disposal rate, exacerbating the crisis.

Supreme Court’s Response:

  • The Supreme Court’s convening of a Constitution Bench is commendable but may be ineffective in addressing the death penalty crisis.
  • Reform efforts focused on sentencing fail to percolate to trial courts, indicating the limited impact of such initiatives.

Dissonance in Supreme Court’s Approach:

  • Project 39A’s report suggests a dissonance between the narrow sentencing question prioritized by the Court and the broader crisis across the criminal process.
  • The Court’s reform efforts may be insufficient and untimely in addressing the systemic issues in death penalty cases.
Case For And Against – Death Penalty
Case FOR the Death Penalty

  • Retribution: An eye-for-an-eye sense of justice. Some crimes are so heinous that the perpetrators deserve the ultimate punishment.
  • Deterrence: The fear of execution might prevent others from committing similar crimes.
  • Protection of Society: Prevents extremely dangerous criminals from ever committing crimes again.
  • Closure for Victims’ Families: May offer a sense of closure or justice for the families of victims.

Case AGAINST the Death Penalty

  • Irreversible Mistakes: The justice system is imperfect, and innocent people may be wrongly executed.
  • Cruel and Unusual: It is considered by many to be inhumane, regardless of the crime.
  • No Proven Deterrent Effect: Studies haven’t conclusively shown that the death penalty reduces crime rates.
  • Racial and Economic Bias: The death penalty is disproportionately applied to those of colour and the poor.
  • Alternative Punishments: Life imprisonment without parole offers similar protection to society.

Blue water power

Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Bilateral Relations

This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains in the context of Understanding India’s engagement with Mauritius and the broader Indian Ocean region, including initiatives like the Agalega project.
Context:
  • Agalega, a small atoll in the Western Indian Ocean, comprising North and South Agalega islands, has recently gained attention due to a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2015 between India and Mauritius for its development.
  • Despite its modest size of 25 square kilometers, Agalega’s strategic location and historical significance have sparked debates and speculation about its geopolitical importance.
  • This analysis delves into the various dimensions of Agalega’s significance, including its historical background, development initiatives, and geopolitical implications.

Historical Background: From Slave Plantation to Strategic Outpost:

  • Originally a slave plantation colony, Agalega’s history is marked by its exploitation and isolation.
  • The only town, Vingt-Cinq, bears testament to its grim past, named after the lashes slaves would receive as punishment.
  • Over time, Agalega evolved into a remote outpost occasionally visited by Coast Guard planes and helicopters.
  • However, it remained largely neglected, lacking basic infrastructure such as medical and educational facilities.

Development Initiatives: From Neglect to Transformation:

  • The 2015 MoU signaled a shift in Agalega’s trajectory, aiming to transform its infrastructure and connectivity.
  • Initially serving as a lifeline for its few hundred inhabitants, Agalega received sporadic shipments of essential commodities via the MV Trochetia due to the absence of port facilities.
  • However, the MoU envisaged the development of Agalega’s airstrip into a full-length airfield capable of accommodating larger aircraft, along with the establishment of a harbor to anchor big ships.
  • Additionally, civilian projects including medical facilities and schools were inaugurated, marking a significant departure from Agalega’s neglected past.

Geopolitical Implications: India’s Strategic Maneuver:

  • While the development initiatives for Agalega were portrayed as efforts to improve the lives of its inhabitants, skeptics raised concerns about ulterior motives, particularly regarding India’s purported interest in establishing a military presence.
  • Critics speculated that India aimed to counter China’s growing influence in the region, positioning Agalega as a strategic outpost in the Indian Ocean.
  • Despite Prime Minister Jugnauth’s assurances of mutual cooperation and benefits for both India and Mauritius, suspicions persisted regarding India’s broader geostrategic objectives.

Maritime Significance and Regional Dynamics:

  • The upgraded infrastructure in Agalega aligns with India’s broader maritime strategy, emphasizing the importance of securing vital sea lanes and enhancing maritime surveillance capabilities.
  • With Agalega’s inclusion in India’s strategic network, the Indian Ocean region witnesses a reconfiguration of power dynamics, with India positioning itself as a key player alongside traditional powers like the US, UK, and France.
  • Moreover, India’s partnership with Mauritius underscores its commitment to maintaining stability and security in the region, countering Chinese assertiveness and safeguarding its own interests.

Conclusion:

  • Agalega’s journey from obscurity to geopolitical significance reflects the evolving dynamics of the Indian Ocean region.
  • While development initiatives offer hope for its inhabitants, Agalega’s strategic value cannot be overlooked.
  • As India asserts its influence in the region and navigates complex geopolitical rivalries, Agalega emerges as a focal point in the broader contest for maritime supremacy.
  • Its transformation underscores the intricate interplay between historical legacies, development imperatives, and geopolitical ambitions shaping the Indian Ocean’s future trajectory.

Mission Sagar

  • Mission Sagar, initiated by the Indian government in May 2020 as part of its commitment to providing essential assistance to Indian Ocean countries during the COVID-19 pandemic, marked a significant humanitarian outreach effort.
  • This endeavor was subsequently followed by Mission Sagar II in November and Mission Sagar III in December of the same year.
  • According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Mission Sagar aligns with the broader vision of SAGAR (SECURITY and Growth for All in the Region), although it’s essential to note that Mission Sagar and the SAGAR initiative are distinct entities.
  • While Mission Sagar focuses on humanitarian and inter-country outreach, the SAGAR initiative is a policy doctrine centered on maritime cooperation.

Vision ‘SAGAR’

  • Launched in 2015, Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) is India’s strategic vision for the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
  • Through SAGAR, India aims to deepen economic and security cooperation with maritime neighbors, assist in building maritime security capabilities, and ensure the region becomes inclusive, collaborative, and adheres to international law.
  • SAGAR is integral to India’s broader maritime policies, including the Act East Policy, Project Sagarmala, Project Mausam, India as a ‘net security provider,’ and the focus on the Blue Economy.

The Global Orders

Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Important International institutions, agencies and fora – their structure, mandate.
This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains as this analysis underscores the significance of international forums like the Raisina Dialogue and their role in shaping global discourse and fostering cooperation.
Context:
  • The Munich Security Conference (MSC) and the Raisina Dialogue are two significant international forums that recently concluded their annual sessions.
  • These conferences serve as platforms for global leaders, policymakers, and thinkers to discuss pressing security and geopolitical issues.
  • Despite their different focuses and participant compositions, both conferences shed light on the evolving dynamics of the global community, which is increasingly fragmented into distinct blocs with divergent realities, priorities, and fewer commonalities compared to a decade ago.

 The Munich Security Conference: A European Perspective:

  • The MSC has long been a cornerstone of European security discourse, often reflecting European anxieties and priorities.
  • Dominated by discussions surrounding the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, this year’s MSC underscored Ukraine’s centrality in shaping the worldviews of European and American policymakers.
  • Ukraine served as a de facto benchmark for evaluating bilateral relations between the West and the rest of the world, at least until recent conflicts such as the war in Gaza.
  • From a realpolitik standpoint, prioritizing and upholding Ukraine’s sovereignty is seen as crucial for Europe, given concerns about Russia’s potential imperial ambitions in Eastern Europe.

The Raisina Dialogue: Diverse Perspectives and Growing Influence:

  • In contrast, the Raisina Dialogue fosters a distinct discourse by attracting a wider range of participants, including Russian policymakers and thinkers from countries not typically present at Munich, notably Iran.
  • The Raisina Dialogue and the MSC sharply diverge on issues such as the invasion of Ukraine and the current state of the international order.
  • This divergence raises questions about the widening intellectual gap between the West and the East and the ability of capitals like Delhi, Riyadh, Doha, and Abu Dhabi to introduce policy agendas that compete with established forums like the MSC and the World Economic Forum.

India’s Growing Influence and Multi-alignment Strategy:

  • The rise of the Raisina Dialogue coincides with India’s growing influence and its evolving strategic approach, shifting from non-alignment to multi-alignment.
  • Buoyed by India’s successful G20 presidency, the Raisina Dialogue is expanding its reach and engaging a broader range of policymakers and thinkers.
  • India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, emphasized the importance of increased engagement with Moscow, highlighting Russia’s inclination towards Asia and the need for diverse options to prevent a self-fulfilling prophecy of isolation.

Challenges and Opportunities in the Fragmenting Global Community:

  • Both conferences reflect the widening intellectual gap between the West and the Rest, presenting a challenge to fostering global cooperation on security and development issues.
  • This fragmentation is not a simplistic binary of Munich versus Raisina but rather a story of a fragmented global community with diverging worldviews.
  • The rise of platforms like the Raisina Dialogue alongside other forums signifies the evolving global landscape, particularly the growing influence of Eastern powers, which were unimaginable decades ago.

Conclusion:

  • The Munich Security Conference and the Raisina Dialogue offer insights into the evolving dynamics of the global community.
  • While the MSC remains a cornerstone of European security discourse, the Raisina Dialogue represents diverse perspectives and the growing influence of emerging powers like India.
  • The widening intellectual gap between the West and the Rest presents both challenges and opportunities for fostering global cooperation.
  • In this fragmented global community, platforms like the Raisina Dialogue play a crucial role in empowering diverse voices and reflecting the evolving global landscape.
Raisina Dialogue: 2024 Theme and Thematic Pillars
  • Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create.
  • The participants engaged with each other over six “thematic pillars”. These include:
  • Tech Frontiers: Regulations & Realities
  • Peace with the Planet: Invest & Innovate
  • War & Peace: Armouries & Asymmetries
  • Decolonising Multilateralism: Institutions & Inclusion
  • The Post 2030 Agenda: People & Progress
  • Defending Democracy: Society & Sovereignty.
Asian Resurfacing v. Central Bureau of Investigation: The Big Problem of Undue Delays in Trials in India

Why in News?

  • A five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court overruled its 2018 decision in Asian Resurfacing v. Central Bureau of Investigation.
  • The SC observed that a stay order can only come to an end after all the parties in the case have been heard first.

What’s in Today’s Article?

  • The Big Problem of Undue Delays in Trials in India
  • What is the Asian Resurfacing Case Ruling?
  • What was the Impact of the Asian Resurfacing Case Ruling?
  • Arguments of the Petitioner and the Government
  • On What Grounds has the Asian Resurfacing Case Ruling been Undone?

The Big Problem of Undue Delays in Trials in India:

  • In India’s three-tier system of courts, a trial court’s decision can be challenged at every stage, not just at the final stage after a verdict is delivered.
  • Stay orders are passed for a court to temporarily halt a judicial proceeding, to secure the rights of a citizen.
  • Grant of stay invariably delays the trial (for decades sometimes), irrespective of which side benefits from it. For example,
    • If an HC in a case had to consider the challenge against an order framing charges (by the trial court), it would first grant a stay of trial and then grant a date for hearing arguments on framing charges.
    • With Courts bogged down with criminal cases that perhaps need more immediate attention, such as bail cases, the hearing against framing of charges gets delayed.

What is the Asian Resurfacing Case Ruling?

  • In 2018, a three-judge bench of SC was deciding a batch of cases involving the Prevention of Corruption Act.
    • These batches of cases had one aspect in common – that the respective High Courts had granted a stay at some stage of trial.
  • In its ruling, the SC (while using its powers under Article 142) held that –
    • While a HC has jurisdiction in appropriate cases to consider the challenge against an order framing charge and also to grant stay,
    • But how such power is to be exercised and when stay ought to be granted needs to be considered further.
  • To address the big problem (of undue delays in trials) plaguing the criminal justice system, the SC held that interim orders of stay at the HC and Civil Court level will be only valid for six months.
    • At the end of this period, they will automatically be rescinded or “vacated”.

What was the Impact of the Asian Resurfacing Case Ruling?

  • Additional stay trials arose unexpectedly following the 2018 verdict. Lawyers would cite the Asian Resurfacing ruling to alter the status quo. For example,
    • Say a frivolous FIR is filed and a trial court has issued summons.
    • This would be challenged before the HC, but the HC would first stay the summons and grant a date for the hearing.
    • But citing the Asian Resurfacing case meant that a trial court would issue non-bailable warrants suddenly for not appearing before the Court.
    • All of this occurred while the HC had not yet heard arguments for quashing the summons itself.
  • While this added the load on the HCs and burdened the average litigant, the verdict also raises key questions of law.
    • Is it possible for the SC (under Article 142) to order the automatic revocation of all interim orders of the HC delaying proceedings in civil and criminal matters when a specified term expires?
    • Whether the SC (under Article 142) can direct the HCs to decide pending cases in which interim orders of stay of proceedings have been granted on a day-to-day basis and within a fixed period?

Arguments of the Petitioner and the Government:

  • The vacation of a stay is a judicial decision which needs application of mind, without which judicial decisions would become arbitrary.
    • Automatic vacation of stay would be antithetical to this principle.
  • The Asian Resurfacing judgement infringes on the discretion afforded to HCs to decide applications for vacation of stay orders under Article 226(3) of the Constitution.
  • Deciding timelines for judicial proceedings is a decision for Parliament to make through its law-making power, not the courts.

On What Grounds has the Asian Resurfacing Case Ruling been Undone?

  • The five-judge bench held that “Sometimes, in the quest of justice we end up doing injustice. Asian Resurfacing is a clear example of the same.”
  • The constitutional courts should refrain from laying down precise timelines for deciding cases.
    • This highlights the discretion that should be given to lower courts which are more aware of “grassroots issues”.
  • The SC also pointed out that courts often have different patterns when it comes to their pending caseload, and so the concerned court is best placed to decide which cases to prioritise.
  • Automatically vacating a stay order after six months would in fact “defeat justice” by nullifying interim orders that had been lawfully passed without hearing the parties.
  • The six-month time limit would amount to court-created legislation, which is impermissible.
    • Only the legislature has the power to decide if a category of cases should be decided within a specific amount of time.
  • Article 226(3) of the Constitution already provides a two-week time limit for HCs to consider an application for the vacation of an interim order.
    • If the application is not disposed of within those two weeks, Article 226(3) provides that the interim order will be vacated.
Govt amends rules related to postal ballots

Why in news?

  • In the next Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections, elderly citizens aged 85 and above can choose postal ballots.
  • The government has changed the rule, increasing the eligibility from the previous limit of 80 years.

What’s in today’s article?

  • Postal Voting
  • News Summary

Postal Voting

  • About
    • Postal voting, also known as absentee voting, is a method of voting in which electors cast their ballots by mail rather than in person at a polling station.
    • This method is particularly useful for individuals who are unable to vote in person due to various reasons.
      • E.g., being away from their home constituency, having a disability, or being engaged in essential services on election day.
  • Eligibility
    • Service voters:
      • Members of the armed forces, paramilitary forces, and other government employees deployed on election duty far from their home constituencies.
    • Absentee voters:
      • Individuals who are unable to vote in person due to reasons such as being away from their home constituency for work, illness, or disability.
    • Electors on election duty:
      • Government officials and polling staff who are assigned duties at polling stations other than their own.
    • Electors under preventive detention:
      • Individuals who are detained under preventive custody orders during the election period.
  • Eligibility during Covid pandemic
    • During the Covid-19 pandemic, the facility was extended to those infected or suspected to be infected with the coronavirus, starting with the Bihar Assembly elections in 2020.
    • Before the Bihar elections, the EC had recommended extending the postal ballot facility to those above 65 years of age and the Law Ministry had notified the amendment in June 2020.
      • However, the ECI eventually decided not to extend the facility to those above 65 years.
      • This was because the number of polling parties that would be required to cover the expanded age group would have been impractical.
    • Finally, in August 2023, the Law Ministry again amended the rule to take the eligibility back to 80 years from 65 years.
  • Significance
    • Postal ballots play a crucial role in ensuring that eligible voters exercise their franchise, even when they are unable to vote in person.
    • They expand the accessibility of the electoral process and contribute to a more inclusive and representative democracy.
  • Issues associated with postal ballot
    • Vote buying
      • There is a chance that someone else is casting the vote on behalf of the voter because the voter chooses to sell his or her vote.
    • Freedom of voting & secrecy might be affected
      • As the voter will have vote on a printed ballot from their respective home, someone might observe the voter casting her/his vote.
      • This might lead to coercion or forcing the voter to make a particular choice.
    • Reliability and delay of postal services
      • While the reliability and delay of postal services in one’s own country are well known to the election commission, conditions might be worse in other countries.
      • Consequently, the postal voting process must start early enough to take into accountany unforeseeable conditions.

News summary: Govt amends rules related to postal ballots

  • The government, in consultation with the Election Commission, amended the Conduct of Election Rules (1961) to raise the minimum age for senior citizens, eligible for voting by postal ballot, to 85 years from 80 years.
  • As per Rule 27A of the Conduct of Election Rules, postal ballot facility was extended to:
    • senior citizens above 80 years,
    • persons with disability,
    • poll officers, and
    • Covid-positive persons starting with the 2020 Bihar assembly poll, which coincided with the pandemic period.
  • However, a review by the Election Commission showed that no more than 2-3% of 80-plus voters had opted to vote through postal ballots; the rest insisted on turning up at the polling station to cast their vote.
    • The total number of senior citizens above 80 years is 1.75 crore, with those aged 80-85 years being 98 lakh.
  • Hence, the govt decided to amend the rule.
India to set up International Big Cat Alliance

Why in news?

  • The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) with headquarters in India with a one-time budgetary support of Rs.150 crore for a period of five years from 2023-24 to 2027-28.
  • Framework of Agreement of IBCA has been drafted largely on the pattern of International Solar Alliance (ISA).

What’s in today’s article?

  • International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)
  • Is India Home to All Seven Big Cats?

International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

  • Background:
    • During the Global Tiger Day event in 2019, PM Modi urged global leaders to unite against poaching in Asia.
    • He repeated this call during the 50th anniversary celebration of India’s Project Tiger on April 9, 2023, announcing the launch of an International Big Cat Alliance.
  • About
    • The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a global alliance that aims to conserve the world’s seven main big cats.
    • It will provide a platform for the member nations to share knowledge and expertise and extend support to recovery efforts in potential habitats.
  • Aim: To work towards the protection and conservation of the seven major big cats — tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, puma, jaguar and cheetah.
  • HQ: India
  • Membership
    • Membership to the alliance will be open to 96 range countries.
      • These are the countries which contain the natural habitat of these big cats.
    • The alliance is also open to other countries, conservation organisations, scientific organisations, businesses, and corporates interested in supporting big cats.
    • So far, 16 countries have given their written consent to be part of the IBCA.
    • In addition, nine international organizations, including the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) International, have given consent to join the alliance.
  • Governance Structure
    • A General Assembly consisting of all member countries.
    • A Council of at least seven but not more than 15 member countries elected by the General Assembly for a term of 5 years, and a Secretariat.
    • Upon the recommendation of the Council, the General Assembly will appoint the IBCA Secretary General for a specific term.
    • A Secretariat
  • Funding
    • The first five years (2023-24 to 2027-28) will be supported by India’s ‘total grant assistance’ ofRs.150 crore.
    • After that, the IBCA is expected to sustain itself through membership fees and contributions from bilateral and multilateral institutions and the private sector.
  • Activities
    • It will provide a platform for the member nations to share knowledge and expertise and extend support to recovery efforts in potential habitats.
    • Its major activities will include advocacy, partnership, knowledge e-portal, capacity building, eco-tourism, partnerships between expert groups, and finance tapping.
    • IBCA will also assist existing species-specific inter-governmental platforms to boost conservation efforts.
  • Benefits
    • The advantages of membership are a central common repository for technical know-how and a corpus of funds.
    • The alliance will strengthen existing species-specific intergovernmental platforms, networks, and transnational initiatives on conservation and protection.
    • Frontline staff in member-countries will be trained in eliciting local support for big-cat conservation, and research and development in wildlife monitoring.
    • Local communities living in the vicinity of the forests will also be encouraged and trained in developing eco-tourism and livelihood opportunities.
    • It recognizes the importance of integrating biodiversity policies with sustainable development goals (SDGs) to achieve holistic and inclusive conservation outcomes.

Is India Home to All Seven Big Cats?

  • Out of 7 big cats, India is home to 5: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard and Cheetah
  • Royal Bengal Tiger
    • As per the latest Tiger Census conducted in 2018-19, tiger population in India has increased to 2967.
    • India now accounts for about 70% of the world’s tiger population.
  • Asiatic Lion
    • Gir National Park in Gujarat is the last abode for the surviving population of the Asiatic Lions in the world.
    • Since the late 1960s, population of Asiatic Lions has increased from less than 200 to 674 (Census 2020).
  • Leopard
    • It is estimated that 12,000-14,000 leopards occur in India, and the population is the most genetically diverse/outbred out of all the subspecies in Asia.
  • Snow Leopard
    • Snow leopard is native to the mountain ranges of Central and South Asia.
    • In India, their geographical range encompasses a large part of the western Himalayas including the territories of Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh in the eastern Himalayas.
    • In 2021, there are about 7,500 snow leopards left in the world, out of which 500 are in India.
  • Cheetah
    • Cheetah had become extinct in India since 1952.
    • In September 2022, Cheetahs have been reintroduced in the wild in India as 8 Cheetahs were imported from Namibia.
    • They were released into the Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh in November, 2022.
Agalega Islands & Its Significance for India

Why in the News?

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth virtually inaugurated an air strip and a jetty to ensure maritime security and connectivity to Mauritius’ Agalega islands.

What’s in Today’s Article?

  • About Agalega Islands (Location, Significance for India, etc.)
  • News Summary

About Agalega Islands:

  • Agalega islands lies approximately 650 nautical miles (1,050 km) north of Mauritius.
  • It is a group of two islands with a total area of 26 sq km and a native population of about 300 people.

Significance of Agalega Islands:

  • The development of the Agalega Islands is in the socio-economic and national security interest of Mauritius, and also aligns with India’s maritime vision.
  • The islands, a dependency of Mauritius, were not developed for many years.
  • The sustainability and well-being of the islands’ inhabitants presented a challenge, as even the most basic needs required referral to Mauritius.
  • The near absence of an official government or security presence was a serious vulnerability.
  • This vulnerability could be converted to strength by developing the islands and creating facilities that could operate ships and aircraft.
  • Building a jetty and an airstrip was therefore considered imperative by the government of Mauritius.
  • They chose India as their preferred development partner.

Why Did Mauritians Choose India?

  • Ties between India and Mauritius go back to 1948, 20 years before the country’s independence from Britain.
  • Seventy per cent of the inhabitants of Mauritius are of Indian origin, and the two countries share deep historical, social, and cultural bonds.
  • The consistent feature in the history of bilateral relations has been friendship and trust at all levels — the political leadership, the diplomatic and military communities, as well as between the peoples of the two countries.
  • The development of these strategically located islands required trust more than anything else. Hence, India was the obvious choice.

Significance for India:

  • The goodwill and trust between the two countries will be further enhanced.
  • India will welcome opportunities to further develop these islands in collaboration with Mauritius as the latter deems appropriate.
  • The joint development of Agalega underscores India’s commitment to the vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).
  • It will indicate to other maritime neighbours that India is a benign and friendly country that respects the sovereignty of independent nations.
  • India would like to emerge as the preferred development and security partner in the Indian Ocean Region.

News Summary:

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth virtually inaugurated an air strip and a jetty in Mauritius’ Agalega islands.
  • PM Modi said the two countries are working actively towards ensuring security, prosperity and stability in the Indian Ocean region.
  • These projects will “enhance the island’s capacity and capabilities in marine surveillance and security, while also meeting development objectives”.
  • Since 2003, several attempts had been made to upgrade the air strip, but nothing concrete materialised.
  • The move to develop and build the new airstrip and the jetty came after PM Modi’s visit to the island country in March 2015.
  • PM Modi flagged concerns over challenges in the Indian Ocean region and said India and Mauritius are “natural partners” in the maritime domain to deal with them.


Headlines of the Day 02-03-2024

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Headlines of the Day 02-03-2024

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Mint, AIR

Headline Source Syllabus Key points to know
Exercise ‘Samudra Laksamana’ PIB  Defence – What is the significance of the exercise ‘Samudra Laksamana’?- Key facts related to it
Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) PIB  Economy / Governance – What are the roles and responsibilities of the Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND)?
Star campaigner The Hindu Polity and Governance – Who are star campaigners?
– Their significance
El Niño  The Hindu Geography – What is El Niño? 
– Its impact
Improvised Explosive Device (IED) IE Security – What are IEDs?
– Key facts related to it
Centre clears 3 semiconductor plants with investment of Rs 1.26 lakh crore IE  Science and Tech – Recently, the centre cleared 3 semiconductor plants with investment of Rs 1.26 lakh crore. What will be its significance?
Agaléga Islands IE Geography / IR – What are the key facts related to the Agaléga Islands?
– How the development of Agaléga figures in India’s vision for its maritime neighbourhood?
The ‘Status of Leopards India’ report The Hindu Environment – What are the key findings of the recently released ‘Status of Leopards India’ report?
PM Janjati Adivasi Nyay Maha Abhiyaan (PM-JANMAN) The hindu Welfare Schemes – What is the PM Janjati Adivasi Nyay Maha Abhiyaan (PM-JANMAN)?
– Its objectives



Current Affairs – 1 March 2024

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Current Affairs – 1 March 2024

Vikramaditya Vedic Clock

The Prime Minister recently inaugurated the Vikramaditya Vedic Clock, which is mounted on an 85-foot tower within Jantar Mantar in Ujjain.

About Vikramaditya Vedic Clock:

  • It is the world’s first ‘Vedic Clock’, designed to display time according to the ancient Indian traditional Panchang (time calculation system).
  • It has been positioned on an 85-foot tower within Jantar Mantar in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.
  • It also provides information on planetary positions, Muhurat, astrological calculations, and predictions.
  • In addition to this, it also indicates Indian Standard Time (IST) and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
  • The clock will calculate time from one sunrise to another. 
    • The period between the two sunrises will be divided into 30 parts, whose one hour consists of 48 minutes, according to ISD. 
    • The reading will start from 0:00 with the sunrise functions for 30 hours (an hour of 48 minutes).
  • It has been developed by Lucknow-based Sanstha Arohan, using digital interventions, enabling it to be connected to the internet and provide a wide range of features through a mobile app named after the clock.
  • Why Ujjain?
    • Ujjain’s rich heritage in timekeeping dates back centuries, with the city playing a pivotal role in determining India’s time zones and time difference. 
    • Ujjain is located at the precise point of interaction with zero meridian and Tropic of Cancer.
    • Before 82.5E longitude was adopted for IST, Ujjain (75.78E) was considered as Bharat’s time meridian.
    • The Vikrami Panchang and Vikram Samvat calendars are also released from Ujjain, which makes Ujjain the ideal location to have the Vaidik Clock.

Juice jacking

Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued a cautionary message to mobile phone users about juice jacking.

About Juice jacking:

  • The term “juice jacking” was first coined in 2011 by investigative journalist Brian Krebs.
  • It is a form of cyberattack where a public USB charging port is tampered with and infected using hardware and software changes to steal data or install malware on devices connected to it.
  • The attack is used by hackers to steal users’ passwords, credit card information, addresses, and other sensitive data stored on the targeted device.
  • This type of attack has been a growing concern, with incidents reported in various public spaces such as airports, hotels, and shopping centres.
  • RBI emphasised the importance of protecting personal and financial data while using mobile devices.
  • How to prevent such attacks?
    • To protect themselves from juice jacking and other cyber threats, mobile phone users have to use their personal chargers and avoid connecting their devices to public USB ports.
    • Additionally, using a virtual private network (VPN) and ensuring that devices have the latest security updates installed can help mitigate the risk of cyberattacks.

Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB)

In a coordinated operation at sea, the Indian Navy and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) recently apprehended a suspicious vessel carrying almost 3300 Kgs of contraband.

About Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB):

  • The NCB was created in March 1986 in terms of Section 4(3) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, which envisages a Central Authority for the purpose of effectively preventing and combating abuse of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and their illicit trade. 
  • The NCB works to identify, investigate, and prosecute drug trade offenders and implement preventive measures to reduce the demand and supply of drugs. 
  • The Bureau, subject to the supervision and control of the Central Government, is to exercise the powers and functions of the Central Government in taking measures with respect to:
    • Co-ordination of actions by various offices, State Governments and other authorities under the N.D.P.S. Act, Customs Act, Drugs and Cosmetics Act, and any other law for the time being in force in connection with the enforcement provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985.
    • Implementation of the obligation in respect of counter measures against illicit traffic under the various international conventions and protocols.
    • Assistance to concerned authorities in foreign countries and concerned international organisations to facilitate coordination and universal action for prevention and suppression of illicit traffic in these drugs and substances.
    • Coordination of actions taken by the other concerned Ministries, Departments and Organizations in respect of matters relating to drug abuse.
  • Other Functions:
    • It is the apex coordinating agency. It also functions as an enforcement agency through its zones and sub-zones. 
    • The zones and sub-zones collect and analyse data related to seizures of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substance, study trends, modus operandi, collect and disseminate intelligence, and work in close cooperation with the Customs, State Police and other law enforcement agencies.
    • In addition to its enforcement activities, the NCB also works to improve awareness, educate the public on the dangers of drugs and drug abuse, and provide support to those affected by the illegal drug trade. 
    • NCB is responsible for maintaining and updating the National Data Bank on Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, and related matters. 
    • NCB maintains and updates the National Register of Treatment Providers and Narcotic Drug Dependents.
    • NCB provides expert advice to the Central Government on narcotics, psychotropic substances, and related matters.
  • The NCB directly reports to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

International Big Cat Alliance

The Union Cabinet formally announced the establishment of International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) with one-time budgetary support of Rs 150 crore from the Central Government until 2028.

About International Big Cat Alliance:

  • It is an initiative launched by Prime Minister of India in April 2023 in Mysuru commemorating the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger.
  • The objective of the IBCA is to ensure cooperation for the conservation of seven big cats: lion, tiger, leopard, cheetah, snow leopard, jaguar, and puma. Five of these cats, apart from jaguar and puma, are found in India.
  • Membership: It is open to 97 ‘range’ countries, which contain the natural habitat of these big cats, as well as other interested nations, international organizations, etc.
  • It aims for mutual cooperation among countries for mutual benefit in furthering the conservation agenda.
  • It would have a multipronged approach in broad basing and establishing linkages manifold in several areas and help in knowledge sharing, capacity building, networking, advocacy, finance and resources support, research and technical support, education and awareness. 
  • Governance Structure:
    • A General Assembly consisting of all member countries.
    • A Council of at least seven but not more than 15 member countries elected by the General Assembly for a term of 5 years, and a Secretariat.
    • Upon the recommendation of the Council, the General Assembly will appoint the IBCA Secretary General for a specific term.
  • Funding: It has secured Government of India’s initial support of Rs. 150 crore for five years (2023-24 to 2027-28).

Melanochlamys Droupadi

Researchers of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) recently discovered a new species of head-shield sea slug from Odisha and the West Bengal coast named ‘Melanochlamys Droupadi’.

About Melanochlamys Droupadi:

  • It is a new marine species of head-shield sea slug with ruby red spot.
  • This species belonging to Melanochlamys genus was discovered from Digha of West Bengal coast and Udaipur of Odisha coast.
  • Features:
    • It is a small invertebrate with a maximum length of up to 7 mm.
    • Habitat: It inhabits wet and soft sandy beaches.
    • It is brownish black in colour with a ruby red spot in the hind end.
    • This particular species of sea slug is hermaphrodite (having both male and female reproductive parts); however, they need another sea slug for reproduction.
    • It has a shell inside the body. It has a posterior, accounting for 61 percent of its body length.
    • It continuously secretes transparent mucus to form a sheath that prevents sand grains from entering parapodial space.
    • It crawls beneath smooth sand to form a moving capsule where the body is rarely visible, leaving behind a trail like a turtle.

What are Sea Slugs?

  • Sea slugs are a group of molluscs that live primarily in marine habitats and are slug-like. 
  • They can be found from the shallow intertidal to the deep sea and from the polar regions to the tropics.
  • The sea slugs are rapid hunters and feed upon mobile prey such as other shelled and unshelled sea slugs, roundworms, marine worms, and small fishes.
  • So far, 18 species have been discovered across the globe.
    • They are distributed in temperate regions of the Indo-Pacific Oceanic realm, but three species are truly tropically distributed, Melanochlamys papillata from the Gulf of Thailand, Melanochlamys bengalensis from West Bengal and Odisha coast and the present species.

Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS)

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted two flight tests of the Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missile.

About Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS):

  • VSHORADS is a fourth-generation Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD) specially designed to counter low-altitude aerial threats over short distances. 
  • These are short-range, lightweight, and portable surface-to-air missiles that can be fired by individuals or small groups.
  • It has been designed and developed indigenously by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad, in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and Indian industry partners.
  • Features:
    • It is designed to provide short-range air defence capabilities to protect ground forces and critical assets from aerial threats, including helicopters and low-flying aircraft.
    • It has a range of up to 6-km.
    • The missile incorporates many novel technologies, including a Dual-band IIR Seeker, a miniaturised Reaction Control System, and integrated avionics.
    • It is propelled by a dual-thrust solid motor.
    • The missile and its launcher were designed by the DRDO to be portable, which enables their quick deployment over difficult terrain.

BioTRIG

A recent study has claimed that BioTRIG, a new waste management technology could help rural Indians.

About BioTRIG:

  • It is a new waste management technology based on the pyrolysis system.
  • It works by sealing the waste inside an oxygen-free chamber and heating it above 400 degrees Celsius. Useful chemicals are produced in the process.
  • In the study, the researchers outlined that three products of pyrolysis — bio-oil, syngas and biochar fertiliser — could help rural Indians live healthier and greener lives.
  • Significance
    • The syngas and bio-oil facilitate heat and power the pyrolysis system in future cycles and surplus electricity is utilized to power local homes and businesses.
    • The clean-burning bio-oil to replace dirty cooking fuels in homes and using biochar to store carbon, while improving soil fertility.
    • Computer simulations showed that the BioTRIG system could also be effective in real-world applications.
    • It could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from communities by nearly 350 kg of CO2-eq per capita per annum.
    • It could help rural Indians cut indoor air pollution, improve soil health, and generate clean power

What is Pyrolysis?

  • It is a kind of chemical recycling that turns leftover organic materials into their component molecules.
  • It works by sealing the waste inside an oxygen-free chamber and heating it to more than 400 degrees Celsius, producing useful chemicals in the process.

Doomsday Glacier

Unveiling new details about Antarctica’s “Doomsday Glacier”, scientists have revealed that the Thwaites Glacier has been losing ice since the 1940s.

About Doomsday Glacier:

  • Thwaites Glacier, also known as the “Doomsday Glacier,” is located in the remote Amundsen Sea in West Antarctica. 
  • It’s a wide and fast-flowing glacier, roughly the size of Florida or Great Britain, and it has been a significant focus of scientific study due to its sensitivity to climate change.
  • Satellite measurements have shown that the glacier is losing an enormous amount of ice each year, nearly 50 billion tons annually, contributing to rising global sea levels. The glacier already contributes 4% of global sea level rise.
  • If the entire Thwaites Glacier were to melt, it could raise the world’s oceans by about 65 centimeters (over 2 feet).
  • It also acts as a buffer, holding back neighboring glaciers that contain around three meters of potential sea level rise.
  • A critical concern is that much of Thwaites sits on land that is below sea level, in a configuration known as “marine-based.”
    • This situation means that as the glacier’s grounding line – the point where the glacier’s ice lifts off the land and starts floating on the sea – retreats inland, it can pass over deeper and deeper valleys.
    • This process allows more and more ice to discharge into the sea, which might accelerate the glacier’s melt in a phenomenon known as “marine ice sheet instability.”

United Nations Human Rights Council

At the 55th Human Rights Council of the United Nations, India exercised its ‘Right to Reply’ for a staunch response to Turkey and Pakistan for the mention of Jammu and Kashmir on the platform.

About United Nations Human Rights Council:

  • It is an intergovernmental body within the United Nations whose mission is to promote and protect human rights around the world.
  • It was created by the General Assembly on 15 March 2006 by replacing the Commission on Human Rights.
  • It has 47 members elected for staggered three-year terms on a regional group basis.
  • Tenure of the council: The members of the Council serve for a period of three years and are not eligible for immediate re-election after serving two consecutive terms.
  • The members are elected by the majority of members of the General Assembly of the United Nations through direct and secret ballot.
  • The General Assembly takes into account the candidate States’ contribution to the promotion and protection of human rights, as well as their voluntary pledges and commitments in this regard.
  • The Council’s Membership is based on equitable geographical distribution.
  • Function:
    • It investigates allegations of breaches of human rights in UN member states, and addresses important thematic human rights issues such as freedom of association and assembly, freedom of expression, freedom of belief and religion, women’s rights, LGBTI rights, and the rights of racial and ethnic minorities.

Solar Radiation Modification (SRM)

In a recent meeting, UN delegates withdrew a motion calling for more research into technologies of solar radiation modifications.

  • SRM – It aims to address a symptom of climate change by reducing the Earth’s temperature.
    • By reflecting more sunlight back into space (or)
    • By allowing more infrared radiation from Earth to escape
  • Need – There is increasing risk of overshooting 1.5 degree Celsius global warming.
  • Methodologies – It includes numerous proposed methods which differ significantly.
    • Ground reflection – Painting structures with reflective paints and planting crops with high reflectivity
    • Marine Cloud Brightening (MCB) – Spraying sea salt into low-lying clouds to increase their brightness.
    • Stratospheric Aerosols Injection (SAI) – Spraying large quantities of tiny particles like Sulphur dioxides or finely powdered calcium carbonate into the earth’s stratosphere.
    • Space reflection – Placing reflectors or shields in space
    • Exiting IR radiation – Removing IR-absorbing clouds from the atmosphere

SRM

  • Challenges – None of the methodologies are ready for deployment.
  • There could be about possible impacts on weather patterns and agriculture, especially in poorer countries.
  • It could serve as an excuse to delay cutbacks on greenhouse gas emissions.

Solar Radiation Modification (SRM) is also known as Solar Radiation Management, Radiation Modification Measures or Solar Geoengineering.

International IP index

India ranks 42 out of 55 in the 12th edition of International Intellectual Property Index.

  • Aim – To show economies how to improve IP-driven innovation and creativity and to reveal trends in global IP protection. 
  • Released by –US Chamber of Commerce released the 12th edition of its International IP Index.
  • Findings of the report – It is based on 50 unique indicators.
  • A significant improvements in 20 economies.
  • While the United States is once again the world leader, there were notable advancements led by Saudi Arabia, Brazil, and Nigeria.
  • 27 economies showed no change and 8, including Ecuador, experienced declines due to weak IP enforcement.

In Patents, 23 economies score above 70%, with India and Pakistan making notable legislative changes.

  • India’s overall score remained unchanged at 38.64%.
  • India’s IP strength – Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill 2023, which includes new language and criminal sanctions on film piracy.
  • Issuing of “dynamic” injunction orders, R&D and IP-based tax incentives.
  • India’s IP weakness – 2021 dissolution of the Intellectual Property Appellate Board.
  • An under-resourced and overstretched judiciary affects rights holders’ ability to enforce their IP rights and to resolve IP-related disputes.
  • Limited framework for the protection of biopharmaceutical IP rights.
  • Recognizing the critical link between IP rights and economic activity will underscore India’s global competitiveness.
  • Significance – It demonstrates the benefits that economies can receive when they adopt robust and enforceable IP standards.
  • It serves as a compass to guide world leaders on proven methods to champion innovation and creativity at home.

InternationIPIndex

NUCFDC

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation will launch National Urban Co-operative Finance and Development Corporation Limited (NUCFDC).

  • NUCFDC – It will be the Umbrella organization for the Urban Cooperative Banks (UCB).
  • Objectives – To modernize and strengthen the Urban Cooperative Banking Sector in India, ultimately benefiting both the banks and their customers
  • To facilitate communication between banks and regulators, and address challenges faced by Urban Cooperative Banks.
  • Capital – It aims to raise capital of Rs.300 crores.
  • Working – It has received Certificate of Registration (CoR) from the RBI to operate as a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC).
  • It will also be allowed to operate as a Self-Regulatory Organization (SRO) for the sector.
  • Services – Apart from offering liquidity and capital support, it would set up a technology platform that can be shared by all UCBs, to widen their range of services at a relatively lower cost.
  • It can also offer fund management and other consultancy services.
  • Significance – It will help in achieving the goal of ‘Sahakar se Samriddhi’ to make ‘Aatma Nirbhar’ Bharat.

Urban Cooperative Banks (UCB) in India
  • Definition – Though not formally defined, refers to primary cooperative banks located in urban and semi-urban areas.
  • These banks, till 1996, were allowed to lend money only for non-agricultural purposes. This distinction does not hold today.
  • Regulation – The States Cooperative Societies Act governs the registration of cooperative banks in India.
  • The Banking Regulations Act of 1949 and the Banking Laws (Co-operative Societies) Act of 1955 also place them under the control of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
  • Current scenario – There are over 1,500 scheduled and non-scheduled UCB with a total number of branches exceeding 11,000.
  • They have deposit size of over Rs 5.33 lakh crore and total lending of more than Rs 3.33 lakh crore.
  • Limitations – Constraints related to technology platforms, and difficulties in offering modern banking services.

Telangana Government Introduces One-Time Scheme

The Telangana state government has issued a directive for the adoption of the One Time Scheme (OTS) across all urban local bodies (ULBs), including the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC). This initiative is geared towards alleviating the financial strain faced by property owners who are grappling with mounting arrears interest on property tax payments.

Scope of the OTS

  • Applicable to private and government properties within ULB jurisdictions.
  • Offers a waiver of 90% on accrued arrears interest.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Property owners with accumulated arrears interest until FY 2022-2023 eligible.
  • Must clear principal dues up to specified period and pay 10% interest in one go.
  • Also open to taxpayers who settled dues, including interest/penalties, until March 2023.

Adjustment of Interest

  • 90% of waived interest adjusted against future payments.
  • Facilitates long-term compliance with property tax obligations.

Implementation and Implications

  • Reflects proactive approach by Telangana government to address financial challenges.
  • Aims to alleviate financial strain on taxpayers and bolster revenue collection for ULBs.

OTS: A Commitment to Property Owners and Municipal Sustainability

  • OTS introduction signifies commitment to supporting property owners and ensuring sustainable municipal finances.
  • Promotes enhanced financial stability and regulatory compliance in Telangana’s urban landscape.

IPS Officer Daljit Singh Chaudhary Named NSG’s New Director General

Daljit Singh Chaudhary, a 1990 batch IPS officer, has been appointed as the Director General (DG) of the National Security Guard (NSG), marking a significant development in India’s security apparatus. Chaudhary, currently serving as the DG of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), will now shoulder the additional responsibility of leading the NSG, commonly referred to as the “black cats”.

National Security Guard (NSG) Operations and Leadership

  • The NSG operates under federal jurisdiction, specializing in counter-terrorism and anti-hijacking operations.
  • Trained rigorously to handle high-risk situations, the NSG is deployed selectively for extraordinary circumstances sanctioned by the government.
  • The NSG’s swift and decisive actions during the 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai garnered widespread recognition.
  • Proficient leadership ensures swift responses to emergent threats, highlighting the importance of capable leadership within the NSG.

Ministry of Home Affairs Announcement

  • An official communique from the Ministry of Home Affairs affirmed Chaudhary’s appointment as Director General of the NSG.
  • Chaudhary’s appointment is on an additional charge basis until a regular incumbent is appointed or further orders are issued.

Crucial Role in National Security

  • Chaudhary’s appointment underscores the government’s commitment to fortifying national security measures.
  • The NSG, with its elite training and specialized skill set, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation against terrorist threats and thwarting hijacking attempts.

 



Editorials & Articles – 1 March 2024

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Editorials & Articles – 1 March 2024

E-evidence, new criminal law, its implementation

Topic: GS2 – Indian Polity – Parliament – Functioning The article is crucial for UPSC aspirants, providing insights into upcoming changes in Indian criminal laws, especially pertaining to electronic evidence.
Context
●       The article discusses the impending enactment of three new criminal laws in India, focusing on changes in electronic evidence provisions and potential challenges in adapting to the revamped legal framework.

  Enactment Details:

  • Three new criminal laws, Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, to be effective from July 1, 2024.
  • Implementation excludes Section 106(2) of Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, prescribing 10 years imprisonment for unreported fatal accidents.

Preparation for Transition:

  • Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and State governments gearing up for a seamless transition.
  • Amendments in Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita related to investigation and police functions.
  • Minor changes and new offenses introduced in Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita.

Electronic Evidence and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam:

  • Limited changes in the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, under Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam.
  • Definitions section provides clarity on electronic and digital records, including emails, server logs, and messages.
  • Enhanced provisions for primary (electronic) evidence and admissibility of electronic records.

Clarity on Definitions:

  • The laws precisely define “document” to include various forms of electronic records.
  • Illustrations under the definition highlight examples such as server logs, emails, and locational evidence.

Key Changes in Electronic Evidence Laws:

  • Clearer definitions for primary electronic evidence.
  • Introduction of terms like ‘semi-conductor memory’ and ‘communication device’ in Section 63 for better visibility.
  • Section 63 deals with the admissibility of electronic records.

Legal Clarity on Electronic Record Admissibility:

  • Law settled on the admissibility of electronic records based on the Supreme Court judgment.
  • Certificate under Section 65-B(4) (now Section 63(4) of BSA) is crucial for electronic record admissibility.
  • Section 65-B and Section 63 considered a complete code by themselves.

Certificate Requirements:

  • Section 63(4) mandates a certificate signed by two persons, one in charge of the device and an expert.
  • Standard format of the certificate prescribed in the Schedule to the BSA.
  • Expert certification increases workload for cyber laboratories.

Impact on Cyber Laboratories:

  • Increased workload for cyber laboratories due to expert certifications.
  • Potential strain on cyberlabs lacking sufficient manpower and infrastructure.
  • Expert opinion necessary when integrity of electronic record is disputed during trial.

Concerns and Recommendations:

  • Increased workload necessitates a general awareness drive on encryption modes and methods.
  • Private agencies using electronic devices for security purposes urged to be informed about encryption.
  • Enforcement agencies need to prepare infrastructure for added responsibilities before the implementation date.

Understanding the world of the informal waste picker

Topic: GS2 – Social Justice – Vulnerable sections Crucial for UPSC: Examines challenges faced by informal waste pickers, EPR implications, and the need for sustainable plastic management.
Context
●       The article underscores the necessity of recognizing informal waste pickers, addressing challenges in Extended Producer Responsibility, and emphasizing a just transition in the upcoming Plastic Treaty to ensure sustainable waste management.

  Background:

  • March 1, International Waste Pickers Day, commemorates pickers murdered in Colombia in 1992.
  • Informal waste pickers form a vital but often overlooked part of waste management globally and in India.

Informal Sector in Waste Management:

  • Defined by the International Labour Organization as unregistered individuals or small enterprises in waste management.
  • Primary collectors of recyclable waste, contributing significantly to resource efficiency.
  • Face marginalization, lack of recognition, representation, and exclusion from social security and legal frameworks.

Data on Informal Waste Pickers:

  • Global estimates indicate the informal waste economy employs 0.5%–2% of the urban population.
  • In India, approximately 1.5 million waste pickers in the urban workforce, with half a million being women.
  • Engage in hazardous work without safety equipment, facing health issues, irregular work, low income, and harassment.

Challenges Faced:

  • Subordinate position in the caste hierarchy compounds issues.
  • Private sector participation in waste management alienates them, exacerbating vulnerability.
  • Private actors’ use of expensive machinery marginalizes informal pickers, pushing them into hazardous waste picking.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR):

  • EPR gains traction in India for plastic waste management, holding commercial waste producers accountable.
  • In practice, EPR redirects waste away from the informal sector, potentially displacing informal waste pickers.
  • EPR Guidelines in India lack clarity on the inclusion of waste pickers and their representing organizations.

Global Role of Waste Pickers:

  • Globally, waste pickers collect up to 60% of all plastic, crucial for sustainable recycling.
  • Informal waste pickers collected 27 million metric tonnes of plastic waste in 2016, preventing environmental damage.
  • The plastic treaty must ensure a just transition for waste pickers.

India’s Plastic Waste Challenge:

  • India’s per capita plastic waste generation is rising; plastic overshoot day is January 6.
  • EPR mechanism involves large recycling units, excluding the informal workforce responsible for waste transformation.
  • Waste pickers possess traditional knowledge that could strengthen EPR implementation.

Conclusion:

  • There is a need to rethink EPR formulation to integrate informal waste pickers into the legal framework.
  • Acknowledging traditional knowledge and expertise of waste pickers in waste management is necessary.
Waste Management in India – And Informal Sector
Waste Management Challenges in India

  • Inadequate Collection and Segregation: Many areas lack comprehensive waste collection systems, leading to mixed waste and challenges in further processing. Source segregation of waste (dry/wet) is not widely practiced.
  • Landfill Overburden: Over-reliance on landfills that are often poorly managed, resulting in environmental pollution and public health risks.
  • Limited Recycling Capacity: Formal recycling infrastructure is insufficient to handle the volume of recyclable waste generated.

The Informal Sector: Backbone of Waste Management

  • Waste Pickers: Individuals (often marginalized) who collect, sort, and sell recyclable materials from dumpsites, streets, and households.
  • Itinerant Waste Buyers: Operate door-to-door, buying recyclable materials from households and businesses.
  • Scrap Dealers (Kabadiwalas): Aggregators and wholesalers of recyclable waste, connecting informal collectors with recycling industries.
  • Crucial Contributions: The informal sector plays a pivotal role in:
  • Diverting waste from landfills
  • Supplying raw materials to the recycling industry
  • Providing livelihoods for a significant population

Challenges for the Informal Sector

  • Marginalization and Poor Working Conditions: Waste pickers often suffer social stigma, lack of basic facilities, and exposure to hazardous materials.
  • Exploitation: Informal workers can be underpaid and work in unsafe environments due to a lack of regulation.
  • Limited Recognition: Their contributions to waste management are not fully recognized or supported by formal policy frameworks.

Opportunities for Improvement

  • Integration: Recognizing and integrating the informal sector into formal waste management systems, providing protective measures, and supporting their cooperatives.
  • Increased Recycling: Promoting source segregation and investing in decentralized waste processing and recycling infrastructure.
  • Policy Support: Establishing comprehensive policies that recognize the critical role of the informal sector and provide them with social and economic security.

How to Reduce Cheating

 

Topic: GS2 – Social Justice – Education

GS2 – Governance – Government policies

This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains as this analysis highlights the impact of examination malpractices on millions of aspirants and the need for fair and inclusive examination systems. It touches upon the socioeconomic implications of cheating and the importance of ensuring equitable opportunities for all stakeholders.
Context:
  • Even amidst parliamentary discussions on the Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Bill of 2024, another instance of question paper leakage emerges, this time concerning constable recruitment in Uttar Pradesh.
  • Such incidents underscore the systemic vulnerabilities within the examination framework, evoking frustration among aspirants.
  • The introduction of stringent penalties through the recently enacted Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Act by the government aims to address these issues, yet questions persist regarding its efficacy.

The Limited Impact of Increased Punishments:

  • While the government’s intent to curb cheating is evident, the effectiveness of heightened punishments remains questionable.
  • Despite existing legislation criminalizing cheating in several states, convictions have been scarce, indicating a failure in implementation.
  • The futility of solely relying on punitive measures raises doubts about their deterrent effect on potential cheaters.

Attributes of a Good Examination System:

  • A reliable examination system should exhibit qualities such as reliability, validity, objectivity, clarity, and comprehensiveness.
  • However, the current processes, including question paper setting, maintenance of secrecy, exam organization, and evaluation, often fall short due to compromises by exam-conducting authorities.
  • Addressing these shortcomings requires the integration of advanced IT systems to ensure transparency and accountability at every stage of examination administration.

The Role of the National Testing Agency (NTA):

  • Recognizing the need for a professional examination conducting body, the establishment of the NTA marks a crucial step towards enhancing the scientific rigor and professionalism of exam administration.
  • Nevertheless, this initiative represents only the initial phase of a long-term endeavor requiring sustained efforts to achieve desired outcomes.

Challenges in Examination Administration:

  • The transition to online examinations was envisaged as a solution to mitigate the risks associated with traditional paper-based exams.
  • However, this shift has introduced new challenges, particularly concerning the outsourcing of exam conduct to untested service providers.
  • The lack of expertise within government machinery to evaluate the robustness of IT systems exposes the examination framework to vulnerabilities exploited by hackers and cybercriminals.

Exploring Alternatives to High-Stakes Examinations:

  • The persistent allure of government jobs has elevated the stakes of examinations, rendering them susceptible to various forms of malpractice.
  • To mitigate this risk, the emphasis should shift from treating exams as sole determinants of selection to viewing them as qualifying assessments.
  • Drawing inspiration from alternative models, such as admissions processes in foreign universities, where exam scores are only one of many criteria, offers a pathway to innovation and resilience against cheating.

The Imperative for Specialized Investigation:

  • Given the pervasive impact of organized cheating on millions of lives, the establishment of a dedicated investigation agency equipped to address examination offenses emerges as a necessity.
  • Such an entity would expedite the process of identifying and prosecuting culprits, reinforcing the importance of integrity in examination systems.

Conclusion:

  • In the pursuit of fair and reliable examinations, reliance on punitive measures alone proves inadequate.
  • Instead, a multifaceted approach encompassing robust technological infrastructure, innovative assessment methodologies, and specialized investigative mechanisms is imperative.
  • By prioritizing the development of foolproof systems and fostering a culture of integrity, the quest for examination integrity can be advanced, ensuring equitable opportunities for all stakeholders.
What are the Concerns Related to the Bill?
Discretion of State Governments:

  • While the bill aims to serve as a model for states to adopt, the discretion given to state governments may lead to variations in implementation across different states.
  • This could potentially weaken the effectiveness of the law in preventing unfair means in public examinations.

Exploitable Loopholes in Sanctions:

  • The provisions of the bill, such as the punishment for offenders, may contain loopholes that can be exploited to evade criminal sanctions.
  • For example, if the fine imposed on a service provider is not commensurate with the financial gains they derive from unfair means, it may not serve as a sufficient deterrent.

Lack of Clarity on National Technical Committee:

  • While the bill proposes the formation of a High-Level National Technical Committee on Public Examinations, there is a lack of clarity regarding its composition, qualifications, and mandate.
  • Without clear guidelines on the composition and qualifications of committee members, there may be concerns regarding their expertise and impartiality in devising foolproof IT security systems and national standards for examination conduct.

Potential for Legal Challenges:

  • The bill may face legal challenges related to its provisions on cognizability, non-bailability, and non-compoundability of offenses. There could be debates on whether such stringent measures are proportionate to the gravity of the offenses and whether they adhere to principles of natural justice.

Chipping away at the Bench

Topic: GS2 – Polity – Judiciary

This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains in the context of understanding the challenges faced by the judiciary in upholding its independence and integrity.
Context:
  • In the intricate fabric of Indian democracy, the judiciary has long been revered as a beacon of impartiality and justice.
  • However, this revered institution faces an unprecedented assault from within and a small faction of the legal fraternity.
  • A cabal of lawyers and some retired judges, driven either by unmet ambitions or a desire for relevance, have embarked on a perilous path of maligning the judiciary.
  • They manipulate legal proceedings to advance political agendas and resort to vilifying the esteemed institution when their efforts falter.

Politicisation and Victimhood: Undermining Judicial Role:

  • The judiciary’s role as the guardian of the Constitution and the ultimate arbiter of justice faces challenges from a disturbing trend of politicisation and playing the victim card.
  • Selective outrage, manipulation of public sentiment, and attacks on the judiciary’s independence have become alarmingly frequent, eroding public trust and confidence in the institution’s integrity.

Instances of Preferential Treatment and Anomalies:

  • Examples such as Teesta Setalvad’s immediate hearing and Gautam Navlakha’s unprecedented “home custody” arrangement under judicial directive raise concerns about preferential treatment.
  • These incidents highlight a broader pattern where the judiciary’s actions are perceived as favoring specific litigants, fueling narratives of bias and political manipulation.

Judiciary’s Role in Politically Sensitive Matters:

  • While the judiciary’s interventions in politically sensitive matters like the electoral bonds scheme and Chandigarh mayoral elections demonstrate its commitment to upholding democratic values, they also become fodder for those seeking to politicize its actions.
  • Individuals benefiting from the judiciary’s prompt interventions paradoxically engage in maligning the institution post-relief, undermining its authority and independence.

Retired Judges’ Criticism Exacerbating the Issue:

  • Criticism and interference from retired judges further exacerbate the issue, as they lend credence to narratives of institutional bias.
  • Instead of upholding the dignity of their former positions, some retired judges choose to critique the current judiciary based on personal biases, undermining public confidence in the institution’s impartiality.

Threat to Judicial Independence and Democracy:

  • The concerted effort to malign the judiciary under the guise of advocacy or activism poses a grave threat to the institution and the fabric of Indian democracy.
  • If unchecked, this dangerous precedent could erode the judiciary’s independence, making it susceptible to manipulation by vested interests, particularly in politically sensitive cases.

Defending Judicial Autonomy and Integrity:

  • In the face of baseless accusations and attempts to politicize its proceedings, the judiciary must defend its autonomy and integrity vigorously.
  • It must navigate a delicate balance between intervention in matters of public importance and maintaining independence from political pressures to uphold the principles of justice and democracy.

Societal Responsibility and Upholding Democracy:

  • As a society, it is imperative to recognize the critical importance of a strong, independent judiciary in safeguarding democratic principles and constitutional rights.
  • Standing against attempts to undermine the judiciary through baseless allegations and undue pressure is crucial for preserving the integrity of the institution and upholding the foundations of democracy.
  • Emphasizing positive engagement rather than resorting to divisive tactics is essential for maintaining public trust in the judiciary and the democratic process.
Constitutional Provisions/Articles Related to Independent Judiciary in India
  • Article 124 (Appointment of Supreme Court Judges): It deals with the establishment and constitution of the Supreme Court. It outlines the process of appointment of judges, ensuring that they are selected based on merit and qualifications, thereby maintaining judicial independence.
  • Article 214 and 215 (High Courts in States): It govern the establishment and powers of High Courts in states. Like the Supreme Court, the appointment and functioning of High Court judges are designed to be independent.
  • Article 50 (Separation of Judiciary from Executive): This article explicitly mandates the separation of the judiciary from the executive, fortifying its independence. The Kesavananda Bharati case emphasized the importance of this separation as a part of the basic structure doctrine.
  • Article 121 and 211 (Restriction on Legislative Discussion): It prohibits the Legislature from discussing the conduct of judges, thereby protecting judicial independence.
  • Article 125 and 221 (Salaries and Allowances): These articles ensure that the salaries and allowances of judges cannot be altered to their disadvantage after their appointment, guarding them against financial manipulation.
  • Article 32 and 226 (Power of Judicial Review): It gives the Supreme Court and High Courts the power of judicial review. Eg: the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down the NJAC Act in 2015 which was designed to replace the collegium system, thereby reaffirming the independence of the judiciary.
  • Security of Tenure for Judges: Judges of the High Courts and the Supreme Court enjoy security of tenure until the age of retirement, which is 62 and 65 respectively under Articles 124 and 217. It safeguards judges from arbitrary removal, allowing them to adjudicate without fear or favour.
India’s Major Leap into Semiconductor Manufacturing: 3 Plants, Rs 1.26 Lakh Crore Investment Get Govt Nod

Why in News?

  • The Indian government has taken a significant step toward becoming self-reliant in semiconductor production by approving the establishment of 3 semiconductor fabrication units.
  • The approvals involve an investment of Rs 1.26 lakh crore ($15.2 billion) including Rs 76,000 crore support under the ‘Development of Semiconductors and Display Manufacturing Ecosystem‘ programme.

What’s in Today’s Article?

  • About the Announcements of the Indian Government
  • Significance of the Move
  • Challenges for India to Become a Global Semiconductor Manufacturing Hub
  • Steps Taken by India
  • Way Ahead for India

About the Announcements of the Indian Government:

  • A semiconductor fab in Dholera, Gujarat: This will be established by Tata Electronics in collaboration with Taiwan’s Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp.
    • The facility is projected to produce 50,000 wafers per month and will require an investment of Rs 91,000 crore.
    • It will specialise in producing high-performance computer chips using 28 nm technology that will find applications in EVs, telecom, defence, etc.
  • A semiconductor unit in Morigaon, Assam: This will be set up by the Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test Pvt Ltd (TSAT), with an investment of Rs 27,000 crore.
    • This is poised to churn out an impressive 48 million chips per day, catering to the automotive and electric vehicle sectors.
  • A semiconductor unit in Sanand, Gujarat: This will be established by CG Power, in conjunction with Japan’s Renesas Electronics Corp and Stars Microelectronics of Thailand, with an investment of Rs 7,600 crore.
    • The construction of these plants will commence within the next 100 days.

Significance of the Move:

  • Semiconductors (essential for defence, automobiles and telecommunications sectors) have grown into a key geopolitical battleground, with the US, Japan and China investing heavily in developing domestic capabilities.
  • As global demand for semiconductors surges, India’s initiative to build domestic chip-making capabilities signifies a major leap towards –
    • Technological autonomy and
    • Reduced import dependency, particularly from manufacturing giants like Taiwan.
  • These developments are part of India’s broader vision to position India as a global hub for semiconductor manufacturing.
  • The initiative is expected to bolster India’s semiconductor market, projected to reach $63 billion by 2026.
  • With these units, the semiconductor ecosystem will get established in India and advanced packaging technologies will be indigenously developed in India.
  • Finally, the establishment of these units is anticipated to create ~20,000 direct advanced technology jobs and around 60,000 indirect jobs and will catalyse growth in related sectors.

Challenges for India:

  • India’s chip incentive plans are focused on boosting all three aspects (ATMP facilities; OSAT plants; and Full-scale foundries) of the semiconductor ecosystem.
    • However, India’s close allies (US, EU) have rolled out more lucrative incentive schemes than New Delhi.
  • The country is focusing on older nodes like 28 nm. TSMC, the most influential and important chip company in the world today, which counts Apple as a customer, is currently making chips with a node size of 3 nm.
  • The other issue is the talent pool. While India is the biggest back office for design engineers of all major chip companies, skilled talent that can work on factory floors of a fabrication plant is still hard to come by.
  • India also currently lacks in original research in semiconductor design, where the future of the chip is decided.

Steps Taken by India:

  • The Indian government is aware of these shortcomings and is in the process of setting up a R&D lab at Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) in Mohali.
    • It is working on a Rs 10,000 crore modernisation plan for the organisation, and a large chunk of that will go towards setting up the Bharat Semiconductor Research Centre.
    • Here, a majority of the research will focus on developing chips that can address India’s unique needs and demands.
  • In 2021, the government had rolled out a Rs 76,000 crore chip incentive scheme, under which the Centre offered half the amount of a plant’s capital expenditure costs as subsidy.
  • There are schemes like the production linked incentive (PLI) plan for smartphone and laptop manufacturing, where the government is offering a subsidy to companies on the basis of their sales bills.

Way Ahead for India:

  • The government’s commitment, coupled with significant private sector investments, underscores the strategic importance of developing indigenous capabilities in semiconductor fabrication and assembly.
  • As construction progresses and operational capabilities develop, India will attract more global players, mirroring the success seen in its smartphone assembly industry.
  • These initiatives represent a milestone in India’s journey towards technological self-sufficiency and positions the country as a potential leader in the global semiconductor market.
PM Modi launches hydrogen-powered ferry

Why in news?

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday virtually launched India’s first indigenously developed hydrogen fuel cell ferry.
  • The vessel, manufactured by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), will be deployed for service at Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh.
    • The hydrogen fuel cell system was developed by KPIT Technologies, Pune, in collaboration with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Labs, under the Union Ministry of Science and Technology.

What’s in today’s article?

  • Harit Nauka initiative
  • Hydrogen fuel cells
  • News Summary

Harit Nauka (green boat) initiative

  • This is the initiative of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. It envisages a green transition of inland vessels.
  • In January 2024, the shipping ministry unveiled the Harit Nauka guidelines for inland vessels.
  • As per the guidelines, all states have to make efforts to use green fuels for 50 per cent of inland waterways-based passenger fleets in the next one decade, and 100 per cent by 2045.
  • This is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as per the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
  • In line with this, the ferry can be replicated in other parts of the country for urban mobility. It is also a boost to the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

Hydrogen fuel cells

  • About
    • A hydrogen fuel cell uses the chemical energy of hydrogen to produce electricity.
    • It is a clean form of energy with electricity, heat and water being the only products and by-products.
  • Working
    • Fuel cells work like batteries, but they do not run down or need recharging. They produce electricity and heat as long as fuel is supplied.
    • A fuel cell consists of two electrodes—a negative electrode (or anode) and a positive electrode (or cathode)—sandwiched around an electrolyte.
    • A fuel, hydrogen in this case, is fed to the anode, and air is fed to the cathode.
      • A catalyst at the anode separates hydrogen molecules into protons and electrons, which take different paths to the cathode.
      • The electrons go through an external circuit, creating a flow of electricity.
      • The protons migrate through the electrolyte to the cathode, where they unite with oxygen and the electrons to produce water and heat.
  • Limitations in India
    • High Cost:
      • Fuel cell systems are still relatively expensive compared to traditional energy sources.
    • Lack of Infrastructure:
      • India currently lacks the infrastructure needed to support the widespread adoption of fuel cell technology, including hydrogen production and distribution networks.
    • Technical Challenges:
      • Fuel cell technology is still in its early stages of development, and there are ongoing technical challenges.
    • Policy Limitations:
      • The Indian government has yet to put in place a comprehensive policy framework to support the development and adoption of fuel cell technology.
      • This has limited the growth of the industry and hindered investment in research and development.
  • Steps taken by India
    • The National Green Hydrogen Policy has been developed to outline a vision for the growth of the hydrogen and fuel cell industry in India.
      • The aim of the National Green Hydrogen Policy is to make India the Global Hub for production, usage and export of Green Hydrogen and its derivatives.

News Summary: PM Modi launches hydrogen-powered ferry

  • PM Modi virtually launched India’s first indigenously developed hydrogen fuel cell ferry.
  • The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways met 75 per cent of the project cost.

Features of the ferry

  • Length and carrying capacity
    • The Hydrogen fuel cell vessel is a 24-meter-long catamaran, which can carry 50 people in its air-conditioned passenger area.
  • Does not use conventional batteries
    • Hydrogen fuel cell vessels do not use conventional batteries as the primary storage house of electrical energy.
    • The vessels run on hydrogen fuel, which is stored in cylinders.
    • This boat has five hydrogen cylinders that can carry 40kg of hydrogen and support eight hours of operations.
    • The vessel is also fitted with a 3-kW solar panel.
  • Type of cells used in the vessel
    • This vessel uses a 50-kW PEM (proton-exchange membrane) fuel cell, with Lithium-Ion Phosphate batteries.
      • The advantage is that the cells can quickly change their output depending upon the power demand.
      • PEM fuel cells are popular in automotive applications because they operate at a lower temperature, and are lighter and more compact.
  • Environment friendly
    • The hydrogen fuel cell-powered vessel has zero emission, zero noise and is energy-efficient, which makes it more environment-friendly.
    • Since there are no moving parts, the ferry requires less maintenance than combustion vessels.
  • Other benefits
    • While hydrogen fuel cell technology has been under development for maritime applications, only a few countries globally have done demonstration projects.
    • This ferry, thus, has given India an early mover advantage to tap the potential of hydrogen as an emerging green fuel in the marine sector.
GDP Growth Accelerates to 8.4% in Q3

What’s in Today’s Article?

  • Background (Context, NSO)
  • Key Highlights of the Latest Data (Overall Data, Sector-wise, etc.)
  • Key Words for Prelims (GDP, GVA, etc.)

Background:

  • India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth surged to a six-quarter high of 8.4% in October-December period of 2023.
  • This has pushed up the growth rate for 2023-24 to 7.6% as against the earlier estimate of 7.3%, data for third quarter GDP and second advance estimates for 2023-24 released by the National Statistical Office showed.

About National Statistical Office (NSO):

  • In May 2019, the Central Government merged the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) and the Central Statistics Office (CSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).
  • The merger created an overarching body i.e., National Statistical Office.
  • Hence, the statistical wing of the MoSPI is now called the NSO.
  • NSO acts as the nodal agency for planned development of the statistical system in the country.
  • It lays down and maintains norms and standards in the field of statistics, involving concepts and definitions, methodology of data collection, processing of data and dissemination of results.

Key Highlights of the Data Released by the NSO:

  • The estimate for growth in the second quarter has now been revised up to 8.1 percent, while that for the first quarter has been revised higher to 8.2 percent from 7.8 percent.
  • At 8.4 percent, the latest quarterly GDP growth rate is the highest in six quarters.
  • Last time India’s economy grew at a faster rate was in the first quarter of 2022-23, when it grew by 13.1 percent, now revised down to 12.8 percent.
  • The Reserve Bank of India’s projection for growth in Q3 was pegged at 6.5%.
  • In the third quarter of the current financial year, among sectors, manufacturing posted the highest growth rate in double digits at 11.6%, while the construction sector grew 9.5%.
  • Agriculture recorded a contraction of 0.8% in October-December.
  • Private final consumption expenditure, an indicator of consumption demand, rose by 3.5% year-on-year in October-December.
  • On the other hand, government final consumption expenditure decreased by 3.2%.
  • Gross fixed capital formation, an indicator of investment, grew by 10.6% during the third quarter.

Key Words:

  • What is GDP?
    • The total monetary or market value of all finished goods and services produced within a country’s borders within a specific period of time is called its gross domestic product (GDP).
    • It is a comprehensive measure of the country’s economic health, expressed in terms of the overall domestic production and functions.
    • The GDP of a country includes all private and public consumption, government outlays, investments, additions to private inventories, paid-in construction costs, and foreign balance of trade.
  • What is GVA?
    • In situations where the GDP fails to measure the real economic scenario, the Gross Value Added (GVA) is a better gauge.
    • The GVA measures the total value of goods and services produced in an economy, and the amount of value added to a product.
    • It is defined as the output produced after the deduction of the intermediate value of consumption. The GVA, in India, is measured at ‘basic prices’.
  • How are GDP and GVA Related?
    • GDP and GVA are related as follows:
      • GDP = GVA + Taxes levied by governments on products – Subsidies provided by government on products
    • Typically, the absolute level of GDP is more than the absolute level of GVA because taxes received are more than subsidies spent by the government.
On cross-voting in Rajya Sabha elections

Why in news?

  • The Rajya Sabha elections in the States of Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka witnessed cross-voting by MLAs belonging to different parties.
  • This has once again raised concerns about the sanctity of the election process.

What’s in today’s article?

  • Rajya Sabha elections
  • Tenth Schedule and Rajya Sabha election
  • Supreme Court and 10th Schedule

Rajya Sabha elections

  • Constitutional provision
    • As per Article 80 of the Constitution, representatives of each State to the Rajya Sabha are elected indirectly by the elected members of their Legislative Assembly.
    • The polls for Rajya Sabha will be required only if the number of candidates exceed the number of vacancies.
      • In fact, till 1998, the outcome of Rajya Sabha elections were usually a foregone conclusion.
      • The candidates nominated by various parties, according to their strength in the Assembly, used to be elected unopposed.
  • Legal Provision
    • The June 1998 Rajya Sabha elections in Maharashtra witnessed cross-voting.
    • Hence, in order to rein in the MLAs from such cross-voting, an amendment to the Representation of the People Act, 1951 was carried out in 2003.
    • Section 59 of the Act was amended to provide that the voting in elections to Rajya Sabha shall be through an open ballot.
    • The MLAs of political parties are required to show their ballot paper to the authorised agent of their Party.
      • Not showing the ballot paper to the authorised agent or showing it to anyone else will disqualify the vote.
      • Independent MLAs are barred from showing their ballots to anyone.

Tenth Schedule and Rajya Sabha elections

  • The 52ndconstitutional amendment introduced the anti-defection law through the Tenth Schedule in 1985.
  • This Schedule provides that a member of a House of Parliament or State legislature who voluntarily gives up the membership of their political party or votes against the instructions of their party in a House are liable for disqualification from such House.
    • This instruction with respect to voting is issued by the whip of a party.
  • However, the elections to Rajya Sabha are not treated as a proceeding within the Legislative Assembly.
    • The Election Commission, drawing reference to Supreme Court judgments, had issued a clarification in July 2017.
    • It specified that the provisions of the 10thSchedule, with respect to voting against the instruction of the party, will not be applicable for a Rajya Sabha election.
    • Furthermore, political parties cannot issue any whip to its members for such elections.

Supreme Court and 10th Schedule

  • Kuldip Nayar versus Union of India (2006)
    • The Supreme Court in Kuldip Nayar versus Union of India (2006), upheld the system of open ballot for Rajya Sabha elections.
    • It reasoned that if secrecy becomes a source for corruption, then transparency has the capacity to remove it.
    • The same court held that an elected MLA of a political party would not face disqualification under the Tenth Schedule for voting against their party candidate.
    • He/she may at the most attract disciplinary action from their political party.
  • Ravi S. Naik and Sanjay Bandekar versus Union of India (1994)
    • In this judgement, the apex court held that that voluntarily giving up membership under the Tenth Schedule is not synonymous with only formally resigning from the party to which the member belongs.
    • The conduct of a member both inside and outside the house can be looked into to infer if it qualifies as voluntarily giving up membership.

Way forward

  • In India, we follow a two-fold principle. When it comes to voting in direct elections where the entire population is involved, we insist on a secret ballot.
  • But in legislative chambers, where Bills are to be voted on, we do not insist on secrecy. The voting is open.
  • The Rajya Sabha election fell halfway between the two kinds of votes. It elected MPs but the electoral college was not based on universal franchise: only MLAs could vote.
  • It was decided that voting for Rajya Sabha candidates had more in common with voting on Bills than with general elections. So, the secret ballot was abolished and voting became public.
  • Instances of cross-voting have undermined the higher principle of free and fair elections and their purity.
  • Therefore, the court must reconsider its stance on whether cross-voting in such elections can be a valid ground for disqualification under the Tenth Schedule.
  • Only then will the intent behind implementing the open ballot system be fully realized.


Headlines of the Day 01-03-2024

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Headlines of the Day 01-03-2024

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Mint, AIR

Headline Source Syllabus Key points to know
International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)  PIB Environment – What is the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)?
– Key facts related to it 
Status of Leopards in India report Mint Environment – What are the key findings of the recent ‘Status of Leopards in India’ report?
Melanochlamys droupadi The Hindu Environment – What is the Melanochlamys droupadi?
– Key facts related to it
The Lancet report on Obesity The Hindu Health – What is obesity?
– Key findings of The Lancet report on Obesity
‘PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana’ Indian Express Environment – What is the ‘PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana’?
– Its objectives and significance
Critical Minerals Indian Express Science and Technology  – What are Critical Minerals?
– Its significance
PM Modi launches hydrogen-powered ferry Indian Express Environment – What are the special features of the vessel?
– How do hydrogen fuel cells work?
Cross-voting in Rajya Sabha elections  The Hindu Polity and Governance – What is Cross-voting?
– Its impact