Category: Mains
Andhra Pradesh can’t change capital, says HC
06, Mar 2022
Why in News?
- The Andhra Pradesh High Court has recently directed the State government to construct and develop Amaravati, the capital city of the State, and the capital region within six Months.
About the News:
- In a significant observation, the High Court held that the State legislature lacked the competence to make any legislation for shifting, bifurcating or trifurcating the capital.
- A three-judge Bench, gave the final verdict after hearings in a case relating to a bunch of writ petitions filed by landowners of Amaravati to declare that the State government had no legislative competence to change the capital or remove Amaravati from being the capital of the three civic wings — legislature, executive and judiciary — of the State.
What is the Issue?
- Counsel for the petitioners contended that the State has failed to deliver on its promise to return the developed plots as per the final master plan within a period of three years even after the deadline expired on January 20.
- The High Court directed the government and the Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) to discharge their duties enshrined under the A.P. Capital Regional Development Authority (CRDA) Act and Land Pooling Rules.
- It directed the State to develop the reconstitutional plots belonging to landowners and hand them over to landowners within three months.
- The HC held the view that the agreement signed between the farmers and the CRDA in Form-9.14 is a Development Agreement-cum-Irrevocable General Power of Attorney and it is a statutory contract, and the violation of terms and conditions by the respondents —
State and APCRDA — warrants interference of this court, while exercising power under Article 226 of the Constitution.
- The State was also directed to pay costs of ₹50,000 to each of the petitioners for having forced the filing of the case to perform their statutory obligations.
What are the provisions in the 2014 Act regarding the Capital of Andhra Pradesh?
- It may be noted that Section 5 (2) of the 2014 Act says that after the expiry of 10 years, Hyderabad shall be the capital of the State of Telangana and there shall be a new capital for the State of Andhra Pradesh.
- Significantly, Section 6 of the 2014 Act says that the Central Government shall constitute an expert committee to study various alternatives regarding the new capital for the successor State of Andhra Pradesh and make appropriate recommendations.
- Further, Section 94 (3) of the Act says that the Central Government shall provide special financial support for the creation of essential facilities in the new capital of the successor State of Andhra Pradesh including the Raj Bhawan, High Court, Government Secretariat, Legislative Assembly, Legislative Council, and such other essential infrastructure.
- It also says that the Central Government shall facilitate the creation of new capital for the successor State of Andhra Pradesh, if considered necessary, by denotifying degraded forest land.
What are the other Examples of Multiple Capital Cities?
- In Sri Lanka, Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte is the official capital and seat of national legislature, while Colombo is the de facto seat of national executive and judicial bodies.
- Malaysia has its official and royal capital and seat of national legislature at Kuala Lumpur, and Putrajaya is the administrative centre and seat of national judiciary.
Among Indian states:
- Maharashtra has two capitals– Mumbai and Nagpur (which holds the winter session of the state assembly).
- Himachal Pradesh has capitals at Shimla and Dharamshala (winter).
- The former state of Jammu & Kashmir had Srinagar and Jammu (winter) as capitals.
India’s abstention on UNSC vote over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
03, Mar 2022
Why in News?
- India recently abstained on a US-sponsored UN Security Council resolution that “deplores in the strongest terms” Russia’s “aggression” against Ukraine.
Who moved the Resolution?
- The UN Security Council voted on the draft resolution presented by the US and Albania, and co-sponsored by several other nations, including Australia, Estonia, Finland, Georgia, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Romania and the United Kingdom.
What was the Resolution About?
- The Council’s resolution reaffirmed its commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders.
- The resolution “deplores in the strongest terms Russia’s aggression against Ukraine” and decides that Russia “shall immediately cease its use of force against Ukraine and shall refrain from any further unlawful threat or use of force against any UN member state”.
- The resolution added that Russia “shall immediately, completely, and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders”. It also asked Moscow to “immediately and unconditionally reverse the decision related to the status of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine”.
- In UN Security Council meeting on #Ukraine today, India abstained on the vote on draft resolution.
Why did India Abstain?
- India did not endorse the harsh language used in the resolution condemning Russia’s actions.
- It wants to maintain a balance between the Western bloc led by the US, and Russia, since it has strategic partners on both sides.
- India’s past record has been maintaining balance between the West and Russia. On January 31, India abstained on a procedural vote on whether to discuss the issue of Ukraine. New Delhi had then articulated its position on “legitimate security interests” that echoed with a nuanced tilt towards the Russian position, and had abstained along with Kenya and Gabon.
So, what was the Fate of this Resolution?
- While Russia — which chaired the meeting of the UNSC since it holds the presidency for the month of February — vetoed the resolution, China, too, abstained along with the United Arab Emirates.
- Despite the remaining 11 members of UNSC, including US, UK, France, voting in favour of the resolution, it did not pass since Russia vetoed it.
- China’s abstention is a surprise since it had opposed the vote on January 31, and was seen echoing Russia’s position.
How did India Explain its vote?
- First, it said that it is “deeply disturbed”, but did not name Russia at all. India is deeply disturbed by the recent turn of developments in Ukraine.
- Second, it reiterated its appeal for “cessation of violence”. India urge that all efforts are made for the immediate cessation of violence and hostilities. This was conveyed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Russian President Vladimir Putin as well during the phone call.
- Third, it flagged its core concern about Indian nationals in Ukraine — about 16,000 are still stuck, most of whom are students. “India is also deeply concerned about the welfare and security of the Indian community, including a large number of Indian students, in Ukraine.
- Fourth, it touched upon “territorial integrity and sovereignty”, which was a new theme. The contemporary global order has been built on the UN Charter, international law, and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states. All member states need to honour these principles in finding a constructive way forward.
- Fifth, it advocated diplomacy. Dialogue is the only answer to settling differences and disputes, however daunting that may appear at this moment. It is a matter of regret that the path of diplomacy was given up. We must return to it. For all these reasons, India has chosen to abstain on this Resolution.
Was India under Diplomatic Pressure?
- Before the United Nations Security Council took up the draft resolution condemning the Russian invasion, India was caught in a diplomatic bind between the Western powers and Russia.
- Ambassadors of European countries in India got together in New Delhi and expressed solidarity with their Ukrainian counterpart and strongly condemned Russia’s “unprovoked and unjustified” military attack on Ukraine.
- British and EU Foreign ministers had also called up Jaishankar, while ambassadors of G-7 countries had expressed support for the Ukrainian ambassador.
So, is this good for India’s Diplomatic Space?
- Experts said that India maintained its “consistent, steadfast and balanced position on the matter”.
- “India has been in touch with all sides, urging the parties concerned to return to the negotiating table. By abstaining, India retained the option of reaching out to relevant sides in an effort to bridge the gap and find a middle ground with an aim to foster dialogue and Diplomacy,” a source said.
- An earlier draft of the resolution had proposed moving the resolution under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, which provides the framework within which the Security Council may take enforcement action, the sources added. However, this was dropped in the final version that was put to vote.
INS TARKASH
20, Jul 2019
Context:
- INS Tarkash, a frontline warship of the Indian Navy, made a port call at Karlskrona, Sweden
- This marks the first visit of an Indian Naval Ship to Swedish shores after a gap of more than 15 years.
About:
- INS Tarkash (F50) is the second Teg-class frigate constructed for the Indian Navy. She is part of the second batch of Teg-class frigates ordered by the Indian Navy.
- Operation Raahat
- v In March 2015, Tarkash was deployed with INS Mumbai and INS Sumitra as part of Operation Raahat to provide protection and support to Indian ships and aircraft involved in the evacuation of Indian citizens from Yemen during the military intervention.
Indian Navy and Sweden Navy:
- The visit is part of Indian Navy’s mission of building ‘Bridges of Friendship’ and strengthening international cooperation with friendly countries.
- The current visit seeks to underscore India’s peaceful presence and solidarity with friendly countries, thereby allowing both India and Sweden to meet the growing challenges of the maritime environment.
- India and Sweden have had a number of high-level bilateral visits and interactions resulting in a rapid growth in relations across a broad spectrum.
- The two navies have also been regular contributors to the global operations against piracy.
WHAT IS A WHIP? WHAT DOES IT DO?
20, Jul 2019
What is a WHIP?
- A whip in parliamentary parlance is a written order that party members be present for an important vote, or that they vote only in a particular way.
- The term is derived from the old British practice of “whipping in” lawmakers to follow the party line.
- In India all parties can issue a whip to their members.
- Parties appoint a senior member from among their House contingents to issue whips — this member is called a Chief Whip, and he/she is assisted by additional Whips.
Kinds of WHIPS:
- The importance of a whip can be inferred from the number of times an order is underlined.
- A one-line whip, underlined once, is usually issued to inform party members of a vote, and allows them to abstain in case they decide not to follow the party line.
- A two-line whip directs them to be present during the vote.
- A three-line whip is the strongest, employed on important occasions such as the second reading of a Bill or a no-confidence motion, and places an obligation on members to toe the party line.
Defiance of WHIP:
- The penalty for defying a whip varies from country to country.
- In the UK, MPs can lose membership of the party, but can keep their House seats as Independents.
- In India, rebelling against a three-line whip can put a lawmaker’s membership of the House at risk. The anti-defection law allows the Speaker/Chairperson to disqualify such a member
- The only exception is when more than a third of legislators vote against a directive, effectively splitting the party.
ARANI SILK SAREE
20, Jul 2019
Context:
- Information about Arani Silk Saree was given by the Union Minister of Textiles in a written reply to the Lok Sabha
About:
- Arani Silk Saree produced on handloom is of high quality and in good demand.
- Arani Sari is a traditional sari made in Arani, Tamil Nadu
Handloom Marketing Assistance (HMA) scheme:
- For providing marketing facility to all the handloom products including Arani Silk, Government of India is implementing Handloom Marketing Assistance (HMA) scheme,
- It is a component of National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP), all across India. The scheme provides marketing platform to the handloom weavers/organisations to sell their products directly to the consumers.
- Under the scheme, financial assistance is provided to National Level Handloom Organisations and nominated handloom agencies of the State Governments to organize the marketing events like National Handloom Expos (NHEs), Special Handloom Expos (SHEs) and District Level Events (DLEs).
Other Programmes;
- Central Silk Board through Silk Mark Organisation of India is organising “Silk Mark Expo” in various towns and cities including Chennai near Arani.
- Silk Mark Expos provide excellent platform to promote silk products of different silk clusters of India including Arani cluster.
- under Section 8 of the Companies Act 2013, Arani Master Weavers have created and registered a non-profit company “Arani Handloom Silk Park” and a MoU have been signed with the Government of Tamil Nadu in 2015.
Schemes related to Textile:
- Scheme For Integrated Textile Park (SITP)
Objective
- To provide financial assistance to a group of entrepreneurs to establish state-of-the-art
- infrastructure facilities in a cluster for setting up their textile units, conforming to international environmental and social standards and thereby mobilize private investment in the textile sector and generate fresh employment opportunities
Features:
- The Scheme targets industrial clusters and locations with high growth potential, which require strategic interventions for developing world-class infrastructure support.
- An ITP under the scheme should preferably have 25 integrated units with components like Land (registered under the name of SPV), common infrastructure (compound, road, drainage, electricty, etc), buildings for common facilities (creche, canteen, laboratories, etc), and factory buildings for production purposes.
- The total project cost shall be funded through a mix of Equity/Grant – from the Ministry of Textiles, State Government, State Industrial Development Corporation, Industry, Project Management Consultant and Loan – from Banks/ Financial Institutions.
- The Government support under the Scheme by way of Grant or Equity will be limited to 40% (90% for first two projects in N.E states and J&K) of the project cost subject to a ceiling of Rs. 40 crore.
- The combined equity stake of GOI/State Government/State Industrial Development Corporation, if any, should not exceed 49%.
- The release of GoI assistance to the SPV shall be done in 3 (three) installments in the ratio of 30:40:30 depending upon fulfillment of terms and conditions.
- Each project will normally be completed in 3 years from the date of release of the first installment of government grant. (Delays can lead to cancellation of project and imposition of penalty).
- The ITPs can also get benefits from Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS), SAMARTH, etc.
Integrated Scheme for Development of Silk Industry:
Objective:
- To improve the productivity and quality of silk through R&D intervention.
- To promote improved cross-breed silk and the import substitute
- Bivoltine silk so that Bivoltine silk production in India enhances to such a level that raw silk imports become nil by 2022 thereby making India self-sufficient in silk.
- To increase productive employment from 85 lakhs to 1 crore persons by 2020.
Powertex India Scheme:
- To provide financial assistance to economically weaker low-end powerloom units for their modernisation and Infrastructure development.
- To improve quality and productivity of the fabrics being produced and enable them to face the competition in domestic and international markets.
- To boost development cluster-based
- Organize Buyer-Seller Meets and Reverse Buyer-Seller Meets to promote market for powerloom product.
- To avoid middle man/local supplier brokerage charge on sales of yarn.
- To give thrust to renewable energy (solar).
Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS):
- To promote Ease of doing Business in the country and to achieve the vision of general employment and promoting exports through Make in India and Zero Effect and Zero Defect in manufacturing.
- To facilitate augmentation of investment, productivity, quality, employment, exports along with import substitution in textile industry and to indirectly promote investment in the textile machinery manufacturing.
Scheme for Capacity Building In Textile Sector (SAMARTH):
- To provide demand driven, placement oriented NSQF (National Skills Qualification Framework) Compliant skilling programme to incentivize organized textile and related sectors excluding Spinning and Weaving.
- To promote skilling and skill up-gradation in the traditional sectors of Handlooms, Handicrafts, Sericulture and Jute
- To provide Sustainable livelihood to all sections of the society across the country via wage or self-employment.
RHESUS MACAQUE DECLARED VERMIN IN HIMACHAL PRADESH
20, Jul 2019
- Context– Union Environment Ministry (MoEFCC) has declared Monkeys (Rhesus Macaque) as ‘vermin’ in Himachal Pradesh.
What is Vermin?
- Any animal which poses a threat to human and their livelihood especially farming, can be declared Vermin under Schedule V of Wildlife Protection act 1972.
- States can send a list of wild animals to the Centre requesting it to declare them vermin for selective slaughter. Wildlife Protection Act 1972, empower every State’s Chief Wildlife Warden for culling. Wild boars, nilgai and rhesus monkeys are protected under Schedule II and III, but can be hunted under specific conditions.
Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972:
- The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 is an Act of the Parliament of India enacted for protection of plants and animal species.
- The Act provides for the protection of wild animals, birds and plants; and for matters connected there with or ancillary or incidental thereto.
- Though Rhesus Macaque monkeys are protected species under Schedule II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the law allows for it to be hunted by declaring it ‘vermin’ for a specific period if it poses a danger to human life or property.
Permissions for hunting wildlife:
- The Wildlife Act empowers every State’s Chief Wildlife Warden to authorise hunters to cull animals in a region where they are a proven nuisance.
- Wildlife laws also consider hunted wildlife as ‘government property’ and impose restrictions on how these carcasses must be disposed.
Issues:
- Himachal Pradesh forest department’s website clearly shows a marked decline in the number of monkeys in the state, yet the Centre declares it as vermin due to overpopulation.
- Previously monkeys were sterilised by the government has cost the tax payer Rs 50 crore.
- Many wildlife conservationists believe that a species coming into conflict with humans is a clear symptom of forest mismanagement and forest department must be held accountable for human-wildlife conflict situation anywhere in the country.
Key Provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act:
- The Act extends to the whole of India, except the State of Jammu and Kashmir which has its own wildlife act.
- It defines five types of protected areas viz.
- National Parks
- Wildlife Sanctuaries
- Community Reserves
- Conservation Reserves
- Tiger Reserves.
- Act has Six Schedules with varying degrees of protection to different kinds of animals and plants.
Schedules of the Wild Life Protection Act
- Six Schedules in Wildlife Protection Act with varying degrees of protection.
- Schedule I and Part II of Schedule II provide absolute protection.
- Penalties for Schedule III and Schedule IV are less and these animals are protected.
- Schedule V includes the animals which may be hunted.
- Example: Common crow, Fruit bats, Mice & Rats only
- Schedule VI contains the plants, which are prohibited from cultivation and planting.
- Beddomes’ cycad (Cycas beddomei)
- Blue Vanda (Vanda soerulec)
- Kuth (Saussurea lappa)
- Ladies slipper orchids (Paphiopedilum spp.)
- Pitcher plant (Nepenthes khasiana)
- Red Vanda (Rananthera inschootiana
RESTRUCTURED NATIONAL BAMBOO MISSION
20, Jul 2019
Why in News?
- The restructured National Bamboo Mission (NBM) has been launched in 2018-19 to focus on the development of complete value chain of bamboo sector and link growers with markets.
Objectives of the Mission:
- To increase the area under bamboo plantation in non-forest Government and private lands to supplement farm income and contribute towards resilience to climate change as well as availability of quality raw material for industries.
- To improve post-harvest management through establishment of innovative primary processing units near the source of production, primary treatment and seasoning plants, preservation technologies and market infrastructure.
- To promote product development keeping in view market demand, by assisting R&D, entrepreneurship & business models at micro, small and medium levels and feed bigger industry.
- To rejuvenate the under developed bamboo industry in India.
- To promote skill development, capacity building, awareness generation for development of bamboo sector from production to market demand.
- To re-align efforts so as to reduce dependency on import of bamboo and bamboo products by way of improved productivity and suitability of domestic raw material for industry, so as to enhance income of the primary producers.
INDIA AGAIN ABSTAINS AT U.N. VOTE ON SEXUAL MINORITIES
13, Jul 2019
Context:
- India abstained at the vote for extending the mandate of an important UN official who reports on violence and discrimination against sexual minorities.
Issue:
- Human Rights Council (HRC) celebrated the United Nations Human Rights Council’s vote to renew for a second three-year term the mandate of the U.N. Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
- India’s abstention at the resolution for term renewal of the Independent Expert on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in the UN Human Rights Council.
- Indian delegation had supported some amendments brought by countries that opposed the work of the Independent Expert.
U.N. Independent Expert on Protection Against Violence and Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (IE SOGI):
- Established in 2016 by the U.N. Human Rights Council, the IE SOGI.
- working collaboratively with U.N. and regional leaders, has helped nations develop policies and actions to protect people from discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
- The Independent Expert oversees the implementation of international human rights law, raises awareness, engages in dialogue with stakeholders and provides advisory and technical assistance.
Connecting Dots in India
- Indian Supreme Court struck down Section 377 and decriminalised the LGBTQ community.
CCTV IN CLASSROOMS- ANALYSIS
13, Jul 2019
- Context– Project to install CCTV cameras inside all classrooms in Delhi state schools.
Delhi Government Stand:
Empowering Parents
- In private schools, parents are empowered by their own education and economic leverage due to the fees they pay. Parental oversight has been the bedrock of effective school management. CCTV surveillance would bring empowerment to parents.
Parent Participation
- School Management Committees (SMCs), parent bodies mandated by the Right to Education Act. They have been empowered to monitor and supervise basic deliverables of schools, such as teacher attendance, healthy mid-day meals, clean washrooms, drinking water, etc. The CCTV in classrooms project is the next step towards increasing accountability of schools.
Accountability:
- By sharing feeds with parents, it is actually ensuring that the crores of public money invested into CCTVs are not wasted.
- Often, CCTVs fail to serve their purpose for lack of motivated monitoring.
- Outsourcing of the monitoring to an invested stakeholder like parents is actually a smart innovation.
Child Care:
- The CCTV feeds can aid parents to identify several problems their children may be facing, including bullying, corporal punishment, inadequate attention spans, teacher absenteeism and even student truancy. It will empower them to not just raise their children better but also to ask the right questions to their child’s school.
Issue of Privacy Breach
- Classrooms cannot be classified as private by any stretch of imagination.
- feed being provided to parents is highly restricted.
- Only the feed for their own children will be provided to parents.
- The feed does not include audio, and can only be accessed live.
Deterrence for Crimes
- If CCTVs can be deterrents to crime outside schools, they can be deterrents within too.
Argument Against CCTV Installation in Schools:
The Aim of Education Isn’t Just Disciplinary:
- While a school is meant to teach discipline, it is also the space where students can make mistakes and subsequently learn from them.
- Creating panopticons inside schools instils fear, not values.
Classrooms Aren’t Public Spaces Either:
- Classrooms cannot be classified as private.
- However, schools are not as public as a footpath.
- The expectation of relative privacy is what allows students the freedom to express themselves, make mistakes, and inculcate creativity and imagination.
- The Delhi government cannot assume that constant surveillance of every activity will improve the learning environment.
Lack of digital infrastructure:
- Internet penetration in urban India still stands at 64.84%, including multi-SIM usage. In cases where parents don’t have smartphones and internet access, what does the government intend to do?
Phone sharing:
- Shared access to a phone is a common habit, and the Delhi government has still not clarified, despite our repeated queries, how they intend to verify a parent’s identity on the DGS Live app.
Access to Videos:
- Creating a massive repository of video footage of children is a phenomenally bad idea, and a violation of their privacy.
- In the absence of any legislative and judicial oversight, it can be easily abused.
Conclusion:
- There should be proper white paper published by Delhi Government regarding CCTV installation so that public understands the motives and undue activity can be restricted.
THE AADHAAR AND OTHER LAWS (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2019
13, Jul 2019
- Context: Recently the Parliament passed the Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2019.
Key Changes in the Aadhar:
- The existing Act on Aadhaar provides for the use of Aadhaar number as proof of identity of a person, subject to authentication. the Bill replaces this provision to state that an individual may voluntarily use his Aadhaar number to establish his identity, by authentication or offline verification.
- Enabling offline verification is another key change brought about by the Bill. Under the exiting Aadhaar Act, verification of identity requires authentication, which, in turn, requires an individual to submit their Aadhaar number and biometric or demographic information to the Central Identities Data Repository.
- The latest Bill amends the Act to additionally allow offline verification of a person’s identity through modes specified by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). The existing Act allowed State or a corporate entity under any law to use Aadhaar. The Bill replaces this bit and allows the UIDAI to decide whether an entity can use Aadhaar.
- The UIDAI can do so once it has satisfied itself that the entity is allowed to do so under law or conforms to requisite privacy and security standard, or indeed, is obtaining Aadhaar in the interest of the State. the Bill has also strengthened the disclosure norms relating to Aadhaar.
- It has also provided for a dedicated Unique Identification Authority of India Fund, which will receive all fees and revenue collected by the UIDAI. Under the Act, these go to the Consolidated Fund of India. The Bill also makes it possible for individuals to file complaints under certain circumstances such as impersonation instead of just allowing the UIDAI to file complaints.
- Lastly, the Bill also lays down a federated structure for deciding penalties in case an entity fails to play by the rules.
ANTI-DEFECTION LAW
13, Jul 2019
- Context: In the light of the Karnataka Assembly crisis, the Anti-Defection Law is being debated nationally.
About Anti-Defection Law:
- Anti-Defection law is contained in the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, which was introduced by the 52nd Amendment in 1985 During tenure of Rajiv Gandhi.
- Definition of Defection: Defection is defined as” to abandon a position or association, often to join an opposing group” which essentially describes a situation when a member of a particular party abandons his loyalty towards that party and provide his support (in the form of his vote or otherwise) to another party.
When was the Anti-Defection Law instituted and what was the Trigger?
- For a long time, the Indian political scene was besmirched by political defections by members of the legislature. This situation brought about greater instability in the political system.
- The infamous “Aaya Ram, Gaya Ram” slogan was coined against the background of continuous defections by the legislators. Legislators used to change parties frequently, bringing about chaos in the legislatures as governments fell. In sum, they often brought about political instability.
- This caused serious concerns to the right-thinking political leaders of the country.
- Several efforts were made to make some law to curb defections. Starting from private members’ efforts, Bills were brought in by the government at different times.
- No Bill could be passed because of one reason or the other. However, the most important reason was that there was no consensus on the basic provisions of an anti-defection law.
- Members of Parliament were concerned about the freedom of speech in Parliament and other legislatures as they had a fear that too stringent a law on defection would likely curb the freedom of speech (which is a constitutional right) of the legislators. A lot of time was taken before a consensus could be reached on this issue.
- Finally, in 1985, the Rajiv Gandhi government brought a Bill to amend the Constitution and curb defection.
- The 10th Schedule of the Constitution, which contains the anti-defection law, was added to the Constitution through this amendment.
What is the purpose of the anti-defection law? What are the grounds of disqualification?
- The purpose of the law is to curb political defection by the legislators.
- There are two grounds on which a member of a legislature can be disqualified:
-
- If the member voluntarily gives up the membership of the party, he shall be disqualified. Voluntarily giving up the membership is not the same as resigning from a party. Even without resigning, a legislator can be disqualified if by his conduct the Speaker/Chairman of the concerned House draws a reasonable inference that the member has voluntarily given up the membership of his party.
- If a legislator votes in the House against the direction of his party and his action is not condoned by his party, he can be disqualified. These are the two grounds on which a legislator can be disqualified from being a member of the House.
- However, there is an exception that was provided in the law to protect the legislators from disqualification. The 10th Schedule says that if there is a merger between two political parties and two-thirds of the members of a legislature party agree to the merger, they will not be disqualified.
Exceptions:
- If a Person is elected as speaker or chairman then he could resign from his party, and rejoin the party if he demitted that post. No Disqualification in this case.
- A Party could be merged into another if at least one – thirds of its party legislators voted for the merger. The Law initially permitted splitting of parties, but that has now been made two – third. As Soon as this law was passed, it was met with severe oppositions on logic that it impinged on right to free speech of legislators. A PIL was filed in the supreme court in the form of famous Kihoto Hollohon vs Zochillhu and others (1992). This PIL had challenged the constitutional validity of the law.
- But SC upheld the constitutional validity of 10th Schedule. Court also decided that the law does not violate any rights of free speech or basic structure of the parliamentary democracy.
- However, Supreme Court also made some observations on section 2(1) (b) of the Tenth Schedule, Section 2(1) (b) reads that a member shall be disqualified if he votes or abstains from voting contrary to any direction issued by the Political party.
- The Judgement highlighted the need to limit disqualifications to votes crucial to the existence of the government and to matters integral to the electoral programme of the party, so as not to ‘unduly impinge’ on the freedom of speech of members.
91st Amendment Act, 2003
- When it was enacted first, there was a provision under which if there occurs a split in the original political party and as a result of which one-third of the legislators of that party forms a separate group, they shall not be disqualified.
- This provision resulted in large scale defections and the lawmakers were convinced that the provision of a split in the party was being misused.
- Therefore, they decided to delete this provision.
- Now at least two-thirds of the members of a party have to be in favor of a “merger” for it to have validity in the eyes of the law.
- The 91st Amendment also makes it mandatory for all those switching political sides – whether singly or in groups – to resign their legislative membership. They now have to seek re-election if they defect.
Is the law, as it stands now, open to interpretation?
- The first ground for disqualifying a legislator for defecting from a party is his voluntarily giving up the membership of his party. This term “voluntarily giving up the membership of his party” is susceptible to interpretation.
- As has been explained earlier, voluntarily giving up the membership is not the same as resigning from a party.
- Then what exactly it means? How can one decide that a member of a legislature has voluntarily given up the membership of his party? The Supreme Court has clarified this point by saying that the presiding officer, who acts as a tribunal, has to draw a reasonable inference from the conduct of the legislator.
How far has the law succeeded in achieving its goal?
- The law certainly has been able to curb the evil of defection to a great extent. But, of late, a very alarming trend of legislators defecting in groups to another party in search of greener pastures is visible.
- The recent examples of defection in state Assemblies and even in Rajya Sabha bear this out. This only shows that the law needs a relook in order to plug the loopholes if any. But it must be said that this law has served the interest of the society.
- Political instability caused by frequent and unholy change of allegiance on the part of the legislators of our country has been contained to a very great extent. That is a story of success of one of the most important legislation that the Indian Parliament has enacted
NATIONAL INVESTIGATION AGENCY
13, Jul 2019
Why in News?
- A Bill seeking to further strengthen the National Investigation Agency (NIA) by giving it powers to probe terror attacks targeting Indians and Indian interests on foreign soil was introduced in Lok Sabha. Legislation will also allow the NIA probe cyber-crimes and cases of human trafficking.
NIA:
- The NIA was created by an Act of the Parliament of India on December 31, 2008 following Mumbai Terror Attack of November 2008.
- According to the NIA Act, the Agency is an investigation agency at the national level to investigate and prosecute offences affecting the sovereignty, security and integrity of India, security of State, friendly relations with foreign States and offences under Acts enacted to implement international treaties, agreements, conventions and resolutions of the United Nations, its agencies and other international organisations and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto for investigation and prosecution of offences affecting sovereignty, security and integrity of India. NIA plays the role of the national counter terrorism law enforcement agency.
- The NIA was established in a concurrent jurisdiction framework, with provisions for taking up specific cases under specific Acts for investigation and prosecution. Hence, it was “not an Agency to deal with offences under all the laws”, but “with only eight laws”:
- The Atomic Energy Act, 1962 (33 of 1962);
- The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967);
- The Anti-Hijacking Act, 1982 (65 of 1982);
- The Suppression of Unlawful Acts against Safety of Civil Aviation Act, 1982 (66 of 1982);
- The SAARC Convention (Suppression of Terrorism) Act, 1993 (36 of 1993);
- The Suppression of Unlawful Acts Against Safety of Maritime Navigation and Fixed Platforms on Continental Shelf Act, 2002 (69 of 2002);
- The Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Delivery Systems (Prohibition of Unlawful Activities) Act, 2005 (21 of 2005);
- Offences under— Chapter VI of the Indian Penal Code (45 of 1860) [sections 121 to 130 (both inclusive)]; Sections 489-A to 489-E (both inclusive) of the Indian Penal Code (45 of 1860).
- Under two circumstances the NIA takes up a case “to investigate and prosecute offences”.
- It could be on reference from the State where a Scheduled offence has taken place. On receipt of report from the State Government, the Central Government shall determine on the basis of information made available by the State Government or received from other sources, within 15 days from the date of receipt of the report, whether the offence is a fit case to be investigated by the NIA.
- The Central Government may also, suo motu, direct the Agency to investigate a Scheduled offence if it is of the opinion that the offence is required to be investigated under the NIA Act. At https://medotcom.com/, you can access your medical records and manage your healthcare needs in one place.
Fly Ash
04, Jul 2019
Why in News?
- The National Green Tribunal has sought a report from the authorities on the current status on disposal and management of fly ash.
Fly Ash:
- Fly ash is a major source of PM 2.5 (fine, respirable pollution particles) in summer. It becomes airborne, and gets transported to a radius of 10 to 20 kms.
- It can settle on water and other surfaces.
- Fly ash contains heavy metals from coal, a large amount of PM 2.5 and black carbon (BC).
- Fly ash, the end product of combustion during the process of power generation in the coal based thermal power plants, is a proven resource material for many applications of construction industries and currently is being utilized in manufacturing of Portland Cement, bricks/blocks/tiles manufacturing, road embankment construction and low-lying area development, etc.
Jal Shakti Abhiyan
04, Jul 2019
Why in News?
- Jal Shakti Abhiyan for Water Conservation Launched.
Highlights:
- It is a time-bound, mission-mode campaign that would focus on 1,592 “water-stressed” blocks in 257 districts. The campaign will run through citizen participation during the monsoon season, from 1st July, 2019 to 15th September, 2019.
- The 1,592 blocks, identified as “water-stressed” as per the Central Ground Water Board’s 2017 data, include 313 critical blocks, 1,000-odd over-exploited blocks and 94 blocks with least water availability (for states without water-stressed blocks).
- Jal Shakti Abhiyan is a collaborative effort of various Ministries of the Government of India and State Governments, being coordinated by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation.
- The focus of the campaign is on water stressed districts and blocks. The teams of officers from the central government will visit and work with district administration in 1592 water stressed blocks in 256 districts, to ensure five important water conservation interventions.
- The Five Important Water Conservation Interventions are:
- Water conservation and rainwater harvesting,
- Renovation of traditional and other water bodies/tanks,
- Reuse of water and recharging of structures,
- Watershed development and
- Intensive afforestation.
- The water conservation interventions will also be supplemented with special interventions including the development of block and district water conservation plans, promotion of efficient water use for irrigation and better choice of crops through Krishi Vigyan Kendras.
- A large-scale communications campaign has also been planned alongside the JSA involving mass mobilisation of different groups including school students, college students, swachhagrahis, Self Help Groups, Panchayati Raj Institution members, youth groups (NSS/NYKS/NCC), defence personnel, ex-servicemen and pensioners, among various others.
National Electric Mobility Mission Plan
04, Jul 2019
Why in News?
- The National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) 2020 is a National Mission document providing the vision and the roadmap for the faster adoption of electric vehicles and their manufacturing in the country.
Highlights:
- The plan has been designed to enhance national fuel security
- To provide affordable and environmentally friendly transportation
- To enable the Indian automotive industry to achieve global manufacturing leadership.
- As part of the NEMMP 2020, Department of Heavy Industry formulated a Scheme viz. Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India) Scheme in the year 2015 to promote manufacturing of electric and hybrid vehicle technology and to ensure sustainable growth of the same.
- FAME-India Scheme Phase – II for promotion of Electric Mobility in the country.
- The scheme proposes to give a push to electric vehicles (EVs) in public transport.
- It seeks to encourage adoption of EVs by way of market creation and demand aggregation.
Targets:
- Target of deploying 5 to 7 million electric vehicles in the country by 2020
- Emphasizes importance of government incentives and coordination between industry and academia
- Target of 400,000 passenger battery electric cars (BEVs) by 2020 ~ avoiding 120 million barrels of oil and 4 million tons of CO2
- Lowering of vehicular emissions by 1.3 percent by 2020
- Total investment required – INR 20,000 – 23,000 cr (approx 3 billion USD)
FAME India:
- FAME India is a part of the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan. Main thrust of FAME is to encourage electric vehicles by providing subsidies.
- Vehicles in most segments – two wheelers, three wheelers, electric and hybrid cars and electric buses obtained the subsidy benefit of the scheme.
- FAME focuses on 4 areas i.e. Technology development, Demand Creation, Pilot Projects and Charging Infrastructure.
Minimum Support Price
04, Jul 2019
Context:
Recently cabinet has announced MSP for 14 Kharif crops
What is MSP?
- Minimum Support Price (MSP) is a form of Market Intervention by the Government of India to insure agricultural producers against any sharp fall in farm prices.
- The MSP is announced by the Government of India at the Beginning of the Sowing Season for certain crops on the basis of the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).
- MSP is a Guarantee Price for their produce from the Government.
- The major objectives are to Support the Farmers from Distress Sales and to Procure Food Grains for Public Distribution.
- In case the market price for the commodity falls below the announced minimum price due to bumper production and glut in the market, government agencies purchase the entire quantity offered by the farmers at the announced minimum price.
Factors Determining the MSP:
- Cost of production
- Changes in input prices
- Input-output price parity
- Trends in market prices
- Demand and supply
- Inter-crop price parity
- Effect on industrial cost structure
- Effect on cost of living
- Effect on general price level
- International price situation
- Parity between prices paid and prices received by the farmers.
- Effect on issue prices and implications for subsidy.
Cabinet NOD to Better Pay Benefits for CAPF Officers
04, Jul 2019
Context:
The Cabinet has approved the proposal to grant Organised Cadre Status to Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) officers.
- The move comes after a Supreme Court order asked the government to extend the benefit already available to IPS, IAS, IRS and IFS officers — to CAPF officers
Significance:
- This will make them eligible for several benefits, including Non-Functional Financial Upgradation (NFFU).
- The move will benefit thousands of serving officers and many others who have retired since 2006 from the five primary CAPFs or paramilitary forces — CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP and SSB.
- The officers will now get better deputation chances as they will be eligible to get empanelled under the central staffing scheme, get enhanced facilities of transportation, house rent allowance, travelling and dearness allowance.
- Besides the pay hike, the demand for NFFU also encapsulates a long-standing tussle between CAPF cadre officers and IPS officers who come on deputation to the forces.
- Most top positions in these forces are occupied by IPS officers.
The Dentist (Amendment) Bill, 2019
04, Jul 2019
Context:
The Dentist (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was recently passed in the monsoon session of the Parliament.
About the Bill:
- The Bill amends the Dentists Act, 1948.
- The Act regulates the profession of dentistry and constitutes:
- The Dental Council of India,
- State Dental Councils and
- Joint State Dental Councils.
- A register of dentists is maintained under the Act in two parts, Part A and Part B. Persons possessing recognised dental qualifications are registered in Part A and persons not possessing such qualifications are registered in Part B.
- The persons in Part B are Indian citizens who have been practicing as dentists for at least five years prior to a registration date notified by the state government.
Composition of the Dental Councils:
- Under the Act, composition of the Dental Council of India, State Dental Councils, and Joint State Dental Councils includes representation from dentists registered in Part B.
- The Bill seeks to remove the mandatory requirement of the representation of dentists registered in Part B in these Councils.
Osaka Declaration
30, Jun 2019
Context– India refused to become a signatory to the Osaka declaration on digital economy.
About–
- It was signed by 24 countries and groupings.
- It was a sign of resistance against developed countries led by the US and Japan, which are pushing for free flow of data across borders.
- It is an overarching framework promoting cross-border data flow with enhanced protections.
- Apart from India, South Africa and Indonesia also stayed away from signing the Osaka declaration.
- The declaration is aimed for the creation of international rules enabling free movement of data across borders.
- India believes that discussions and negotiations pertaining to data should be held within the context of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).
Pandharpur Wari
30, Jun 2019
- Pandharpur Wari is related to Bhakti Movment
- It is an annual pilgrimage (yatra) to Pandharpur – the seat of the Hindu god Vithal in
- Palakhis (palanquin processions) carrying the paduka (foot prints) of various saints – most notably Dnyaneshwar and Tukaram – from the Varkari (Warkari, “one who performs the Wari”) sect (which venerates Vithal), are taken from their respective shrines to Pandharpur.
Bhakti Movement
- As a social movement, the Bhakti movement, challenged caste hierarchy, emphasized the individual’s direct connection to god and the possibility of salvation for all through good deeds and simple living.
- In Maharashtra, the Bhakti movement began in the late 13th century.
- Its proponents were known as the Varkaris.
- Among its most popular figures were Jnanadev (1275- 96),Namdev (1270-50) and Tukaram (1608-50), who have left behind many verses that embody the essence of Bhakti.
Tukaram
- Saint of the Bhakti movement in Maharashtra,
- Tukaram is best known for his devotional poetry called Abhanga and community-oriented worship with spiritual songs known as kirtans
- He was part of the egalitarian, personalized Varkari devotionalism tradition
- Tukaram was a rebel from Shudra by caste,
- Defying the injunctions of the Brahmins, Tukaram chose to write on religious matters, and that too in Marathi, the language of the people.
Namdev
- was an Indian poet and saint from Maharashtra,
- writings were also recognized by the “Gurus” of Sikhism and are included in the holy book of Sikhism, the Sri Guru Granth Sahib.
- Namdev was influenced by Vaishnavism.
- His philosophy contains both nirguna and saguna Brahman elements.
Dnyaneshwar
- was a 13th-century Marathi saint, poet, philosopher and yogi of the Nath Vaishnava tradition.
- Dnyaneshwar’s ideas reflect the non-dualistic Advaita Vedanta
- His legacy inspired saint-poets such as and Tukaram
Space Activities Bill
30, Jun 2019
Why in news?
- India has begun pre legislative consultations on a “Space Activities Bill” that is designed to encourage domestic private rocket and satellite companies to offer services for Indian and global customers.
Space Activities Bill, 2017- Provisions:
- The Bill will address the liability issues arising from their space activities, in a suitable/ rational manner, in line with international practices.
- The government first introduced the Bill in 2017.
- The provisions of this Act shall apply to every citizen of India and to all sectors engaged in any space activity in India or outside India
- A non-transferable licence shall be provided by the Central Government to any person carrying out commercial space activity
- The Central Government will formulate the appropriate mechanism for licensing, eligibility criteria, and fees for licence.
- The government will maintain a register of all space objects (any object launched or intended to be launched around the earth) and develop more space activity plans for the country
- It will provide professional and technical support for commercial space activity and regulate the procedures for conduct and operation of space activity
- It will ensure safety requirements and supervise the conduct of every space activity of India and investigate any incident or accident in connection with the operation of a space activity.
- It will share details about the pricing of products created by space activity and technology with any person or any agency in a prescribed manner.
- If any person undertakes any commercial space activity without authorisation they shall be punished with imprisonment up to 3 years or fined more than ₹1 crore or both.
Why reconsider the Bill?
- The current space policy does not cover liabilities for damage to third party space assets although the country is a signatory to the UN Treaties on Outer Space activity.
- The Bill will help formulate necessary rules under the Space Activities Act to deal with damages under the liability provisions and the mode of securing financial guarantee to compensate for damages.
- This bill would address a long-pending concern on covering liabilities in the event of a mishap or damage to spacecraft.
Global opportunities:
- India’s PSLV has emerged as the preferred rocket to hurl small satellites globally.
- India is also working on a small satellite launch vehicle that is designed to tap the global opportunity to carry satellites of less than 50 kg into space.
- The US, France and the EU have legislations that underwrite costs of damage if it exceeds insurance when a private satellite launch goes awry or a rocket hits another object in space.
MEITY reported that 2.22 crore villagers are given Digital Education under Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA)
29, Jun 2019
CONTEXT:
- Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology reported that 2.22 crore villagers are given Digital Education under Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA).
BACKGROUND:
- To increase the Digital Literacy rate in India, Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyaan (PMGDISHA) was launched as an integral part of the ‘Digital India’
- The vision of this scheme is that one person in every household becomes digitally literate
- Train them to operate digital devices such as Tablets, Smartphones et cetera.
- Bridge the digital divide, specifically targeting the rural population
- It also ensures high-speed internet access for all, though a secure ecosystem.
World Bank Chief Urges Reforms To Attract Investment Amid Trade Uncertainty
29, Jun 2019
- The World Bank in its annual Global Economic Prospects report earlier this month forecast that slowing trade and investment flows would cut global growth this year to 2.6 percent, down 0.3 percentage point from previous forecasts.
- Uncertainty from trade tensions and slowing global growth is increasing the need for developing countries to pursue reforms that make them more attractive to private investment.
- The Bank will urge countries to take bolder steps to improve their business climates to allow private firms to compete better with state-owned companies and generate more profitable growth, innovation and jobs.
- The International Monetary Fund has forecast a similar slowdown, driven primarily by increased tariffs, primarily between the United States and China.
- The bank’s private-sector arm, the International Finance Corp, is doing a deep diagnostics dive into obstacles to private-sector firms in various countries on issues like customs facilitation, stronger bankruptcy regimes and legal changes to bring more women into workforces.
Electric Vehicles in India
29, Jun 2019
Fame 2(Faster Adoption and Manufacturing (Hybrid&) and electric vehicles
- The outlay of ₹10,000 crore has been made for three years till 2022 for FAME 2 scheme.
- The centre has sanctioned ₹8,596 crore for incentives, of which ₹1,000 crore has been earmarked for setting up charging stations for electric vehicles in India.
- The government will offer the incentives for electric buses, three-wheelers and four-wheelers to be used for commercial purposes.
- Plug-in hybrid vehicles and those with a sizeable lithium-ion battery and electric motor will also be included in the scheme and fiscal support offered depending on the size of the battery.
Electric Infrastructure
- The centre will invest in setting up charging stations, with the active participation of public sector units and private players.
- It has also been proposed to provide one slow-charging unit for every electric bus and one fast-charging station for 10 electric buses.
Incentives
- To encourage state transport units (STUs) to buy more electric buses, ₹20,000 per kW will be offered as incentive.
- FAME 2 will offer incentives to manufacturers, who invest in developing electric vehicles and its components, including lithium-ion batteries and electric motors.
- The centre has asked states to frame their EV policy and provide additional fiscal and non-fiscal incentives to manufacturers and buyers.
Why the government is pushing EVs to fight climate change
- India has been at the forefront of aligning its policies with its commitment to the Paris accord on climate change, signed in 2016.
- The accord aims to pursue efforts to limit the global temperature rise to 5ºC above pre-industrial levels.
Why is the central government promoting the adoption of electric mobility?
- To reduce the import of crude oil
- NITI Aayog, the government think tank is tasked with devising a mass electric energy-based transport system in India,
What are the main Obstacles in adopting electric mobility?
- A battery, depending on its capacity, will keep a vehicle running at a certain speed for a certain duration.
- Lack of charging infrastructure
- High cost difference between ICE-based vehicles
- firms have invested in making lithium-ion cells for batteries—most of the EV makers assemble the battery packs
- India also lacks the important minerals, lithium and cobalt, that go into making lithium batteries, which are imported from China.
Fortified Ration
29, Jun 2019
Why in News?
- Department of Food & Public Distribution has approved the “Centrally Sponsored Pilot Scheme on Fortification of Rice & its distribution through Public Distribution System”. Financial Assistance up to 90% in case of North-Eastern, Hilly and Island States and up to 75% in case of rest of the States has been extended.
Fortified Ration
- Under the scheme, milled rice will be mixed with a premix containing vitamins and minerals post-harvest.
- As per the Food Fortification Resource Centre (FFRC) of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) under Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, iron, Vitamin B12, and Folic acid are the mandatory nutrients for the fortification of rice, the kernels of which are added into the regular rice kernels in 1 to 100 ratio.
- Iron and folic acid are the two main ingredients that will be added to the food grains.
- Fortification norms will be in accordance with the specifications laid down by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
- Further, Government of India has also advised all States/UTs especially those States/UTs that are distributing wheat flour through Public Distribution System (PDS), to distribute fortified wheat flour through PDS Fortified Edible oils is also supplied to certain states through PDS
New Space India Limited (NSIL)
29, Jun 2019
Why in news?
- New Space India Limited (NSIL) has been incorporated as a wholly owned GoI Undertaking/Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE).
- Antrix Ltd is another PSU under the Department of Space that acts as an commercial arm of the ISRO
New Space India Limited (NSIL):
- It functions under the administrative control of Department of Space (DOS).
- It aims to commercially exploit the research and development work of ISRO Centres and constituent units of DOS.
- The NSIL would enable Indian Industries to scale up high-technology manufacturing and production base for meeting the growing needs of Indian space programme/
- It would further spur the growth of Indian Industries in the space sector.
Functions of NSIL:
- Small Satellite technology transfer to industry, wherein NSIL will obtain license from DOS/ISRO and sub-license it to industries;
- Manufacture of Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) in collaboration with Private Sector;
- Production of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) through Indian Industry;
- Production and marketing of Space based products and services, including launch and application;
- Transfer of technology developed by ISRO Centres and constituent units of DOS;
- Marketing spin-off technologies and products/services, both in India and abroad
U.K SINHA COMMITTEE
26, Jun 2019
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on January, 2019 set up an expert committee under former SEBI chairman U.K. Sinha to Suggest Long-Term Solutions for the economic and Financial Sustainability of the MSME sector.
Key Recommendations of the Committee:
- ₹5,000 crore stressed asset fund for domestic micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in a relief to small businesses hurt by demonetization, the goods and services tax and an ongoing liquidity crunch.
- Such a fund could work in tandem with RBI-mandated restructuring schemes or bank-led NPA revival solutions for MSMEs.
- The onus of creating this fund would lie with the government
- The committee also suggested forming a government-sponsored Fund of Funds of ₹10,000 crore to support venture capital and private equity firms investing in MSMEs.
- The RBI should increase the limit for non-collateralized loans to 20 lakhs.
- Revision in loan limit sanctioned under the MUDRA by the Finance Ministry to 20 lakhs from 10 lakhs.
- Banks that wish to specialize in MSME lending, their sub-targets for farm loans under the priority sector lender could be waived off, and instead can be given a target for loans to the SME sector.
- The targets, committee said, could be of 50% of the net bank credit for universal banks and 80% for small finance banks.
- Commercial banks have been suggested that they should develop customised products to assess the financing requirements based on expected cash flows moving away from traditional forms of assessment.
- Banks need to build their ability to capture cash flows of MSME borrowers on a regular basis, for which tie-ups with industry majors / aggregators / online platforms will have to be done by the banks
- In order to provide loan portability in a seamless manner to MSMEs, the committee recommended that the RBI should come out with measures on portability of MSME loans with a lock-in-period of one year.
CASH IN CIRCULATION HAS FALLEN
26, Jun 2019
- Demonetisation, coupled with increased digital transactions and the reduced cash usage in the informal economy, led to a Reduction in Currency in Circulation by ₹3.4 lakh crore.
- The notes in circulation had been growing at an average annual growth rate of 14.51% since October 2014.
- Reserve Bank of India data shows that the number of counterfeit bank notes detected decreased from 762,072 pieces in 2016-17, to 522,783 in 2017-18 and 317,389 pieces in 2018-19 and hence “demonetisation resulted in curbing of the counterfeit currency”
- “Growth of digital transactions in terms of value has increased to ₹188.07 lakh crore in September 2018 from ₹112.27 lakh crore in November 2016. Digital transactions in terms of volume have increased to 241.88 crore in September 2018 from 91.83 crore.”
- Demonetisation led to a “significant positive impact on most theatres of violence” in the country since illegally held cash formed a major chunk of terror funding, and that the note ban rendered the cash held with terrorists worthless.
- “Demonetisation also resulted in better tax compliance, greater tax revenues, more formalization of economy and higher digital transactions.”
PROJECT MONITORING GROUP (PMG)
26, Jun 2019
- Projects worth 11 lakh crore remain stalled or have issues under consideration. Railways, roads and Power sector accounting to more than half of these stalled projects.
- Project Monitoring Invest India Cell has resolved the issues surrounding 740 projects worth 30.5 lakh crore. However, 298 projects worth 10.98 lakh crore still have problems that are yet to be resolved.
- What is PMIC?
- The Project Monitoring Group (PMG) was set up in 2013 under Cabinet Secretariat.
- It is an institutional mechanism for resolving a variety of issues including fast tracking the approvals for setting up and expeditious commissioning of large Public, Private and Public–Private Partnership (PPP) Projects.
- PMG is now functioning under Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) since 14.09.2015.
- The projects considered by PMG mainly pertain to sectors such as:
- National Highways and Railways
- Civil Aviation and Shipping
- Petroleum & Natural Gas
- Chemicals & Fertilizers
- Coal, Power and Mines
- Cement, Construction and Steel
- PMG in association with ‘Invest India’, the agency dedicated to promotion of foreign Investment in India, also helps foreign investors intending to make large investments in India by facilitating approvals/clearances and providing them necessary support during implementation of projects
- PMG monitors digitization of Union and State level clearance processes including reengineering of such processes, wherever required for simplification and investment promotion.
GENERALIZED SYSTEM OF PREFERENCE
26, Jun 2019
- The Generalized System of Preference (GSP) is the largest and oldest US trade preference programme and is designed to Promote Economic Development by allowing duty-free entry for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries.
- On March 4, Trump announced that the US intends to terminate India’s designations as a beneficiary developing country under the GSP programme. The 60-day notice period ended on May 3. Under the GSP programme, nearly 2,000 products including auto components and textile materials can enter the US duty-free if the beneficiary developing countries meet the eligibility criteria established by Congress.
- India was the largest beneficiary of the programme in 2017 with USD 5.7 billion in imports to the US given duty-free status and Turkey the fifth largest with USD 1.7 billion in covered imports. The GSP criteria includes, among others, respecting arbitral awards in favour of the US citizens or corporations, combating child labour, respecting internationally recognised worker rights, providing adequate and effective intellectual property protection, and providing the US with equitable and reasonable market access.
DEFENCE POLICY GROUP
26, Jun 2019
- India and the US are planning to revive the Defense Policy Group (DPG) between the two countries after a four-year gap.
- The last DPG, co-chaired by India’s defense secretary and US Under-secretary of defense for policy, was held in 2015.
- The decision to revive the DPG was taken in the Two-Plus Two meeting between the foreign and defense ministers of the two countries.
- DPG will review the reports of existing sub-groups — Military Cooperation Group, Joint Technology Group, Senior Security Technology Group and the Defense Procurement and Production Group. DPG will also only lay the future roadmap for joint advanced exercises between two countries, and look at the prospect of technological cooperation in building military hardware under Make in India.
GEO-SPATIAL COOPERATION AGREEMENT (BECA)
26, Jun 2019
- Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement
- BECA will allow India to use US geospatial maps to get pinpoint military accuracy of automated hardware systems and weapons such as cruise and ballistic missiles.
- Along with Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), and Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), BECA is one of the foundational military communication agreements between the two countries.
- BECA is an important precursor to India acquiring armed unmanned aerial vehicles such as the Predator-B from the US.
- The Pentagon in 2018 was ready to supply Predator-B, which uses spatial data for accurate strikes on enemy targets, to India.
DNA TECHNOLOGY (USE AND APPLICATION) REGULATION BILL
26, Jun 2019
- The Bill seeks to create a Regulatory Framework for Obtaining, storing and testing of DNA samples of human beings, mainly for the purposes of criminal investigations, and with the objective of establishing the identity of a person.
- The proposed law seeks to bring in a supervisory structure to oversee these practices, and frame guidelines and rules so that the DNA technology is not misused.
- Bill proposes to set up two institutional structures — a DNA regulatory board, and a DNA data bank — at the national level. Regional centers of the board as well as the data bank can be set up at the state level as well.
- The Bill proposes that testing of DNA samples can be carried out only at laboratories that are authorized to do so by the regulatory board. It also specifies the circumstances under which a person can be asked to submit DNA samples.
- Police can ask for DNA samples of the person accused of an offence to facilitate their investigation. But unless the offence is of a very serious nature, punishable by death or by imprisonment for at least seven years, the DNA sample can be obtained only on the written consent of the accused. It can be also be obtained if an authorized magistrate is satisfied that a DNA test is absolutely necessary for investigation of the crime.
- People who are witness to a crime, or want to locate their missing relatives, or in similar other circumstances, can volunteer to give their DNA samples, again through written consent.
Issues:
- Whether the DNA technology is foolproof?
- Whether the provisions adequately address the possibility of abuse of DNA information, and whether the privacy of the individual is protected.
- Critics of the Bill have been claiming that collecting and storing such intrusive information could lead to abuse, besides being violative of a person’s privacy.
Government Stand:
- Since DNA tests are already happening, and frequently used as the most reliable tool to establish identity, it would be better to have regulatory safeguards so that it is carried out only in prescribed manner and by authorized personnel and Institutions.
LITCHI AND ACUTE ENCEPHALITIS SYNDROME
26, Jun 2019
- Litchi is being most commonly blamed for the Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) outbreak in Bihar.
- Research paper By Jacob states:
- Its main finding was that this fruit contains a toxin called Methylene cyclo propyl glycine (MCPG).
- But the authors never blamed litchi for AES.
- The causal Factor is Malnutrition and not Litchi.
- The luscious fruit is only a triggering factor for malnourished children as the toxin MCPG can lead to hypoglycaemia (fall in sugar levels).
- So, if a healthy child eats litchi, s/he will not suffer from AES.
How Malnutrition Cause Hypoglycaemia?
- Malnourished children have depleted glycogen store in the liver.
- So if there is no glycogen reserve, the glycogen breaks into glucose.
- When the shortage further increases, even fats start burning. This process produces by products like ketones and amino acids which are neurotoxic.
- So, if a child sleeps without food, this whole physiological process gets completed by wee hours of the day and then the kid gets fever with convulsions and at times s/he loses consciousness.
How does MCPG Interplays with Malnourishment:
- When malnourished kids are exposed to toxins like MCPG present in litchi, which is grown in these months, the chemical triggers hypoglycaemia.
- It’s so much that sugar levels fall up to 30 milligrams per deciliter and sometimes even nil. This leads to complications. The fact that only malnourished children are at risk is also proven by the reasoning that all the vulnerable children belong to the poorest of poor class.
- No child eating litchi, who belongs to a well-to-do family and gets adequate food, suffers from AES.
Why is AES Caused due to Hypoglycaemia so Fatal?
- Most of these deaths are preventable.
- Within four hours of onset of symptoms like convulsions, high fever if a child is administered dextrose (glucose), s/he can be saved.
- Only glucose administration is required. However, most of the patients come from far off villages where the peripheral medical facilities, much against the government’s claims, don’t even have facilities to administer it intravenously.
- They take a lot of time to arrange for conveyance and so the golden time is lost. Only last week, Hospitals saved a child whose glucose level was nil when he was brought to Hospital.
FOOD AND NUTRITION SECURITY ANALYSIS REPORT
26, Jun 2019
- Prepared by Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation & The UN World Food Programme.
- 31.4% of Indian children will be stunted by 2022
- Food grain yields have risen 33% over the last two decades, but are still only half of 2030 target yields
- The Indian farmer is producing more food grains than ever before, making the country Self Sufficient. The Consumer’s access to rice, wheat and other cereals has not increased at the same rate, due to population growth, inequality, food wastage and losses, and exports
- Average Per Capita Consumption of energy among the poorest 30% of the population is 1811 kilo calories, much lower than the norm of 2155 kilo calories per day.
- There are high rates of stunting among children in the poorest wealth quintile (51.4%), Scheduled Tribes (43.6%) and Scheduled Castes (42.5%), and children born to mothers with no education (51%).
HEALTHY STATES, PROGRESSIVE INDIA’-NITI Aayog
26, Jun 2019
- Is a Report on Health published by NITI Aayog
- Report on Rank of States and UTs’ has ranked states in three categories — larger States, smaller States and UTs “to ensure comparison among similar entities”.
- The report ranks states and Union territories innovatively on their year-on-year incremental change in health outcomes, as well as, their overall performance.
- It ranks states and union territories on their year on year incremental change in health outcomes, as well as, their overall performance with respect to each other.
- Kerala, Andhra Pradesh & Maharashtra ranked on top in terms of overall performance. Haryana, Rajasthan and Jharkhand ranked top three States in terms of annual incremental performance.
CENTRAL BOARD OF FILM CERTIFICATION (CBFC)
26, Jun 2019
- It is a Statutory Body under Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
- It grants certificate to regulate the public exhibition of films in India under the provisions of the Cinematograph Act 1952.
- Films can be publicly exhibited in India only after they have been certified by the Central Board of Film Certification.
- The Certification process is in accordance with The Cinematograph Act, 1952, The Cinematograph (certification) Rules, 1983, and the guidelines issued by the Central government u/s 5 (B).
ONLINE PORTAL FOR FILING COMPLAINTS
25, Jun 2019
- The Reserve Bank of India, launched a ‘Complaint Management System (CMS)’, which will enable members of the public to lodge their complaints on its website against any of the regulated entities with public interface such as commercial banks, urban co-operative banks, and non-banking financial companies, among others.
- The system will be accessible on desktop as well as on mobile devices.
- Provides features such as acknowledgement through SMS/e-mail notification(s), status tracking through unique registration number, receipt of closure advises, and filing of appeals, where applicable.
- It also solicits voluntary feedback on the customer’s experience.
- Insights from the data available from CMS can, for example, be used by banks/FSPs for designing products, which meet the expectations of their customers.
- Data from CMS can be leveraged by the RBI for analytics, which can be used for regulatory and supervisory interventions, if required.
- Various dashboards provided in the application will help the central bank effectively track the progress in redressal of complaints.
- With the launch of the CMS, the processing of complaints received at the offices of the Ombudsman and Consumer Education and Protection Cells (CEPCs) of the RBI has been digitalised.
INTERIM RESOLUTION PROFESSIONALS
25, Jun 2019
- Section 16(1) of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 requires Adjudicating Authority to appoint an interim resolution professional (IRP) within fourteen days from the insolvency commencement date.
- Section 18 of the Code prescribes Duties of Interim Resolution Professional as under:
- The IRP shall have to collect all information relating to the assets, finances and operations of the corporate debtor for determining the financial position of the corporate debtor
- The IRP shall receive and collate all the claims submitted by creditors to him pursuant to the public announcement made
- IRP shall constitute a committee of creditors
- Further, the IRP shall monitor the assets of the corporate debtor and manage its operations until a resolution professional is appointed by the committee of creditors
- The IRP shall file the information collected with the information utility, if necessary; and The IRP shall take control and custody of any asset over which the corporate debtor has ownership rights as recorded in the balance sheet of the corporate debtor, or with information utility or the depository of securities or any other registry that records the ownership of assets.
EASTERN ECONOMIC FORUM
25, Jun 2019
- The Eastern Economic Forum was established by Decree of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin in 2015. In accordance with the Decree, the Eastern Economic Forum takes place each year in Vladivostok.
- Every year, the Eastern Economic Forum serves as a platform for the discussion of key issues in the world economy, regional integration, and the development of new industrial and technological sectors, as well as of the global challenges facing Russia and other nations.
Objectives:
- Strengthening ties between the international investment community, Russian business, and federal, regional, and local government bodies
- Conducting a comprehensive expert assessment of the economic potential of the Russian Far East and improving the region’s competitiveness and attractiveness to investors both nationally and internationally
- Showcasing new investment and business opportunities such as advanced special economic zones, Vladivostok Free Port, and state support for high-potential investment projects
- India and China will meet along with Russia in the side-lines of Easter Economic Forum apart from a trilateral meeting during the G20 summit. Such a meeting would add weightage to the global significance of Eurasian region.
REGIONAL COMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP (RCEP)
25, Jun 2019
- The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is a mega-regional economic agreement being negotiated since 2012 between the 10 ASEAN (Association of South-East Asian Nations) governments and their six FTA partners: Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea.
- The agreement’s contents, the proposed RCEP would cover almost every aspect of economy such as goods, services, investment, economic and technical cooperation, intellectual property rights (IPR), rules of origin, competition and dispute settlement.
- The negotiations have missed several deadlines repeatedly, even though they have gained momentum since 2016.
Issues of concern for India:
- Japan and South Korea are channelling demands by big pharma for longer patent terms and for monopoly rights over clinical trial data. These provisions could undermine access to price-lowering generic medicines, and thus, life-saving treatment for millions of people in the developing world.
- The RCEP would threaten livelihoods in sectors like dairy, meat and other agricultural products by allowing duty free imports of subsidised products from Japan, New Zealand and Australia. India, with 100 million small scale dairy producers, and Vietnam are among the countries that will be most affected.
- One of the provisions proposed in RCEP will allow governments to treat foreign investors as they treat locals. This means that large corporations will be able to grab land, displacing local subsistence farmers.
- India’s trade deficit [annual] with RCEP nations is about $100 billion, and half of this is with China alone even without an FTA with China. Post India’s FTA with ASEAN, Japan and Korea [who are all RCEP members], our trade deficit with them have increased, and the government needs to take this into account during RCEP negotiations.
- Visa Norms– India’s push for easier norms on movement of professionals across borders for short-term work in 16 Asia-Pacific nations, including itself, under a proposed mega Free Trade Agreement (FTA) — is learnt to have found favour with some ASEAN-bloc members. To date, no official text has been made public, even though the agreement would affect several billion people. This continues to fuel concerns.
India, France to Deepen Cooperation
25, Jun 2019
- India and France have decided to deepen cooperation in the cyber security sector.
- They will jointly work towards curbing the use of the Internet for terrorist purposes and online radicalisation.
- The third Indo-French cyber dialogue was held in Paris on 20 June 2019.
- France and India have reaffirmed their commitment to open, reliable, secure, stable and peaceful cyberspace.
RESERVE BANK OF INDIA (RBI)
25, Jun 2019
Context
- Viral Acharya’s resignation as Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India
About:
- The Reserve Bank of India was established on April 1, 1935 in accordance with the provisions of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.
- Though originally privately owned, since nationalisation in 1949, the Reserve Bank is fully owned by the Government of India.
Composition:
Central Board
- The Reserve Bank’s affairs are governed by a central board of directors. The board is appointed by the Government of India in keeping with the Reserve Bank of India Act.
- Appointed/nominated for a period of four years
Constitution:
Official Directors
- Full-Time: Governor and not more than four Deputy Governors
Non-Official Directors
- Nominated by Government: ten Directors from various fields and two government Official
- Others: four Directors – one each from four local boards
Functions:
Monetary Authority:
- Formulates, implements and monitors the monetary policy.
- Objective: maintaining price stability while keeping in mind the objective of growth.
Regulator and supervisor of the financial system:
- Prescribes broad parameters of banking operations within which the country’s banking and financial system functions.
- Objective: maintain public confidence in the system, protect depositors’ interest and provide cost-effective banking services to the public.
Manager of Foreign Exchange
- Manages the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999.
- Objective: To facilitate external trade and payment and promote orderly development and maintenance of foreign exchange market in India.
Issuer of currency:
- Issues and exchanges or destroys currency and coins not fit for circulation.
- Objective: to give the public adequate quantity of supplies of currency notes and coins and in good quality.
Developmental Role:
- Performs a wide range of promotional functions to support national objectives.
Regulator and Supervisor of Payment and Settlement Systems:
- Introduces and upgrades safe and efficient modes of payment systems in the country to meet the requirements of the public at large.
- Objective: maintain public confidence in payment and settlement system.
Related Functions
- Banker to the Government: performs merchant banking function for the central and the state governments; also acts as their banker.
- Banker to Banks: maintains banking accounts of all scheduled banks.
DRAFT NATIONAL EDUCATION POLICY 2019
25, Jun 2019
Context:
- The Committee for Draft National Education Policy (Chair: Dr. K. Kasturirangan) Report discussed in Parliament.
- The report proposes an education policy, which seeks to address the challenges of:
- Access
- Equity
- Quality
- Affordability, and
- Accountability faced by the current education
School Education:
Early Childhood Care and Education:
- Curriculum that doesn’t meet the developmental needs of children,
- Lack of qualified and trained teachers, and
- Substandard pedagogy
The Right to Education Act, 2009 (RTE Act):
- Currently, the RTE Act provides for free and compulsory education to all children from the age of six to 14 years. The draft Policy recommends extending the ambit of the RTE Act to include early childhood education and secondary school education.
- This would extend the coverage of the Act to all children between the ages of three to 18 years.
School Exam Reforms:
- The Committee noted that the current board examinations:
- Force students to concentrate only on a few subjects
- Do not test learning in a formative manner, and
- Cause stress among
- To track students’ progress throughout their school experience, the draft Policy proposes State Census Examinations in classes three, five and eight.
- it recommends restructuring the board examinations to test only core concepts, skills and higher order capacities.
Teacher Management:
- The Committee noted that there has been a steep rise in teacher shortage, lack of professionally qualified teachers, and deployment of teachers for non-educational purposes.
- The draft Policy recommends that teachers should be deployed with a particular school complex for at least five to seven years.
- Teachers will not be allowed to participate in any non-teaching activities (such as cooking mid-day meals or participating in vaccination campaigns) during school hours that could affect their teaching capacities.
- The Ministry of Human Resources and Development must be renamed as the Ministry of Education in order to bring focus back on education.
Financing Education:
- The Draft Policy reaffirmed the commitment of spending 6% of GDP as Public Investment in Education.
RED FORT
25, Jun 2019
Context:
ASI carries out restoration of Mughal •era parts of Red Fort.
About:
- Red fort fuses architectural styles of the Timurids and the Persians.
- Red Fort has many structures that serve as fine examples of Islamic architectural style and Mughal architecture,
- Built By: Shah Jahan
- Architect: Ustad Ahmad Lahauri Architectural styles: Mughal, Indo-Islamic Current Status: UNESCO World Heritage Site On the Banks of River Yamuna,
- The Red Fort is known for its gardens and a water channel called The Stream of Paradise.
Salient Features of Indo-Islamic Architecture:
- Islamic Architecture is characterised by a few Visible Symbols.
- One is the arch, which frames the space;
- second symbol is the dome, which looms over the skyscape;
- third is the Minaret, which pierces the skies. Minarets were Actually Symbols in the Middle of Deserts
- Muslims forbidden to replicate living forms on any surface, developed their religious art and architecture consisting of the arts of arabesque, geometrical patterns and calligraphy on plaster and stone.
Indian Indo Islamic Architecture:
- The Indo-Islamic architecture inculcates the elements of Saracenic, Turkish and Arab architecture
- The first new element added in the Indian architecture was the use of shapes instead of natural forms. This apart, use of calligraphy as inscriptional art was also a new element added to by Muslims
- Inlay decoration and use of coloured marble, painted plaster and brilliantly glazed tiles.
Indo-Islamic architecture is conventionally categorised into the following four Categories:
- Imperial Style (Delhi Sultanate)
- Provincial Style (Mandu, Gujarat, Bengal, and Jaunpur)
- Mughal Style (Delhi, Agra, and Lahore)
- Deccani Style (Bijapur, Golconda).
The Building Material:
- One thing is very common in these buildings that the walls are extremely thick and largely constructed of Rubble masonary, which was easily available.
- These walls were then cased over with limestone plaster or dressed stone.
- A variety of stones were used such as Quartzite, Sandstone, Buff, Marble, etc. In some cases, the Polychrome Tiles were used to finish the walls.
Establishment of ‘gokul grams’ under Rashtriya Gokul Mission
24, Jun 2019
Why in News?
- Funds have been mobilized under Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) for setting up of 21 Gokul Grams as Integrated Cattle Development Centres.
Rashtriya Gokul Mission:
- The RGM has been launched by the Government for conservation and development of indigenous breeds in a focused and scientific manner.
- The mission envisages establishment of integrated cattle development centres „Gokul
- Grams to develop indigenous breeds including upto 40% nondescript breeds.
- Rashtriya Gokul Mission is a focussed project under National Programme for Bovine Breeding and Dairy Development, with an outlay of Rs 500 crore during for three years from 2014-15 to 2016-17.
Objectives:
- Development and conservation of indigenous breeds
- Breed improvement programme for indigenous cattle breeds to improve their genetic makeup and increase the stock; Enhancement of milk production and productivity;
- Upgradation of nondescript cattle using elite indigenous breeds like Gir, Sahiwal, Rathi, Deoni, Tharparkar, Red Sindhi and Distribution of disease free high genetic merit bulls for natural service.
Implementing Agency:
- Rashtriya Gokul Mission is being implemented through “State Implementing Agencies (SIA) viz Livestock Development Boards.
- All Agencies having a role in indigenous cattle development are “Participating Agencies” like CFSPTI, CCBFs, ICAR, Universities, Colleges, NGO‟s, Cooperative Societies.
Gokul Gram:
- These are Indigenous Cattle Centres and will act as Centres for development of Indigenous Breeds.
- They’ll be established- a) in native breeding tracts and b) near metropolitan cities for housing the urban cattle.
- A dependable source for supply of high genetic breeding stock to the farmers in the breeding tract.
- Self-sustaining and will generate economic resources from sale of milk, organic manure, vermi-composting, urine distillates, and production of electricity from bio gas for in house consumption and sale of animal products.
- Also function as state of the art in situ training centre for Farmers, Breeder.
Technological Intervention in Agriculture
24, Jun 2019
- Kisan Suvidha Mobile Application: To facilitate dissemination of information to farmers on the critical parameters viz., Weather; Market Prices; Plant Protection; input Dealers (Seed, Pesticide, Fertilizer) Farm Machinery; Soil Health Card; Cold Storages & Godowns, Veterinary Centres and Diagnostic Labs.
- Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) Mobile Apps: It has compiled more than 100 mobile apps developed by ICAR, State Agricultural Universities and Krishi Vigyan Kendras. These mobile apps developed in the areas of crops, horticulture, veterinary, dairy, poultry, fisheries, natural resources management and integrated subjects, offer valuable information to the farmers, including package of practices, market prices of various commodities, weather related information, advisory services, etc.
- Development of mKisan Portal for sending advisories on various crop related matter to the registered farmers through SMSs.
- Launching of e-National Agriculture Market initiative to provide farmers an electronic online trading platform.
- Implementation of Agricultural Marketing Infrastructure, sub-scheme of Integrated Scheme of Agricultural Marketing, in order to improve/create scientific storage capacity for storing farm produce, processed farm produce and to reduce post-harvest storage loss. Introduction of Soil Health Card Scheme to assist State Governments in providing Soil Health Cards to all farmers across the country once in a cycle of 2 years Soil health card provides information to the farmers on nutrient status of their soil along with recommendations on appropriate dosage of nutrients to be applied for improving crop productivity and soil fertility.
- Providing subsidies under National Food Security Mission (Oil Seeds and Oil Palm) to farmers on seed components, transfer of technologies, production inputs and water carrying devices. Financial assistance is also being provided under this scheme for block demonstration, frontline demonstration, farmers training to educate farmers to adopt modern techniques of farming to yield good crop economically.
- Use of space technology for various programmes/ areas such as Forecasting Agricultural Output using Space, Agro-meteorology and Land-based Observations project, Coordinated programme on Horticulture Assessment and Management using geo- informatics project, National Agricultural Drought Assessment and Monitoring System, Rice-Fallow Area Mapping and intensification, geo tagging of infrastructure and assets created under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, and Crop Insurance.
- Using machine learning process along with different computer algorithm for crop classification and area estimation.
Janani Suraksha Yojana
24, Jun 2019
- Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) is a safe motherhood intervention under the National Rural Health Mission (NHM).
- It is being implemented with the objective of reducing maternal and infant mortality by promoting institutional delivery among pregnant women.
- The scheme is under implementation in all states and Union Territories (UTs), with a special focus on Low Performing States (LPS).
- It was launched in April 2005 by modifying the National Maternity Benefit Scheme (NMBS).
- The NMBS came into effect in August 1995 as one of the components of the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP).
- The scheme was transferred from the Ministry of Rural Development to the Department of Health & Family Welfare during the year 2001-02.
Various Measures under JSY:
- The scheme focuses on the poor pregnant woman with special dispensation for States having low institutional delivery rates namely the States of UP, Uttaranchal, Bihar, Jharkhand, MP, Chhattisgarh, Assam, Rajasthan, Orissa and J&K.
- While these States have been named as Low Performing States (LPS), the remaining States have been named as High performing States (HPS).
- Exclusion criteria of age of mother as 19 years or above and up to two children only for home and institutional deliveries under the JSY have been removed.
- Eligible mothers are entitled to JSY benefit regardless of any age and any number of children.
- BPL pregnant women, who prefer to deliver at home, are entitled to a cash assistance of Rs 500 per delivery regardless of age of women and the number of children.
- States are encouraged to accredit private health facilities for increasing the choice of delivery care institutions.
Organic Farming in India
24, Jun 2019
Why in News?
- Government of India has been promoting organic farming under two dedicated schemes namely Mission Organic Value Chain Development North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER) and Parampragat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) since 2015 through State Governments.
Organic Farming in India:
- Under these schemes, support has been provided for formation of farmers’ clusters/ Farmer Producer Organisation; incentives to farmers for input procurement, value addition including post-harvest infrastructure creation, packaging, branding, publicity, transportation, organic fairs etc..
- Organic Farming has also been supported under other schemes viz Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) and Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), Network Project on Organic Farming under ICAR.
- Third party certification of organic farming is promoted by Agriculture Processed Food and Export Development Authority (APEDA), Ministry of Commerce.
Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North East Region:
- Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North East Region (MOVCD-NER) is a Central Sector Scheme, a sub-mission under National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA), launched by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare for implementation in the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura, during the 12th plan period.
- The scheme aims development of certified organic production in a value chain mode to link growers with consumers and to support the development of entire value chain starting from inputs, seeds, certification, to the creation of facilities for collection, aggregation, processing, marketing and brand building initiative.
Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana:
- Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana is an elaborated component of Soil Health Management (SHM) of major project National Mission of Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA).
- Under PKVY Organic farming is promoted through adoption of organic village by cluster approach and PGS certification.
Scheme Envisages:
- Promotion of commercial organic production through certified organic farming.
- The produce will be pesticide residue free and will contribute to improve the health of consumer.
- It will raise farmer’s income and create potential market for traders.
- It will motivate the farmers for natural resource mobilization for input production.
NITI AAYOG
24, Jun 2019
Issue in economy now that can be handled by NITI Aayog:
- There is horizontal and vertical imbalance revenues of centre and states. Vertical Imbalance mainly allocates more money to Centre.
- Horizonal imbalance involves two types of imbalances.
- Type I is to do with the adequate provision of basic public goods and services, while the second,
- Type II, is due to growth accelerating infrastructure or the transformational capital deficits.
- We need another institution to tackle the horizontal imbalance of the Type II; for this the NITI Aayog is the most appropriate institution.
- NITI Aayog should be engaged with the allocation of “transformational” capital in a formulaic manner, complete with incentive• compatible conditionalities.
- NITI Aayog should also mandated to create an independent evaluation office which will monitor and evaluate the efficacy of utilisation of grants.
Features of NITI Aayog:
- Not Constitutional Body nor statutory body
- NITI Aayog is essentially an advisory body that seeks to provide critical directional and strategic inputs across spectrum of key elements of policy to the centre as well as states.
- It also seeks to put an end to the slow and tardy implementation of the policy by fostering inter-ministry, inter-state and centre-state coordination.
- It has been envisaged to follow the bottom-top development approach.
Composition of NITI Aayog:
- Chairperson -Prime Minister Governing Council –
- Its members are Chief Ministers and Administrators of the Union Territories Regional Councils. These would be created as per need and its members would be chief ministers and administrators of UTs of respective regions. Vice-Chairperson.
- The Vice-chairperson of the NITI Aayog will be appointed by Prime Minister.
Leader of opposition made Minister in Government of State.
24, Jun 2019
Context:
- Rtd. High Court Judge Thipsay questions appointment of Vikhe• Patil (Leader of Opposition), Kshirsagar as ministers.
- Leader of Opposition of Maharashtra has reigned from his party and joined party in government and sworn as minister
Issues:
- By the Constitution (91st Amendment) Act, 2003, Clauses (1A) and (1B) were inserted in Article 164, which provide for appointment of Chief Minister and other ministers. Clause (1B) states that a member of either House of the legislature of a State, belonging to a political party, who is disqualified to be appointed as a minister for duration of the period commencing from the date of his disqualification.
- ‘‘Disqualification on ground of defection.
-
- Clause (a) of paragraph 2 is “if he has voluntarily given up his membership of such political party.
-
- Apart from this, Article 164(4) only permits a person to be a minister for a maximum period of six consecutive months without being a member of the legislature.
Removal of the Judge of a High Court
24, Jun 2019
Context:
- In•house panel found an Allahabad High Court judge, Justice S.N. Shukla, guilty of misconduct, Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to initiate a motion for his removal.
- A Judge of the High Court can be removed from office only for proven misbehaviour or incapacity and only in the same manner in which a Judge of the Supreme Court is removed. The President of India can remove a Judge of the High Court, from his office only if each house of the parliament passes a resolution by a two third majority of its members present and voting in each house requesting him to remove the judge.
Appointment of the Judges of High Courts:
- As per article 217, the chief Justice of the high court is appointed by the President in consultation with the Chief justice of India as well as the Governor of the state in question. A collegium system has evolved over the years in which a Collegium headed by the CJI makes recommendation to the government for appointment of judges.
Inner Line Permit
24, Jun 2019
Context:
- A petition filed has sought a direction to the Centre and the Nagaland government to take appropriate steps for the protection of life and liberty, properties and other fundamental rights of nonNagas living in the commercial hub of Dimapur following the imposition of the Inner Line Permit.
- (PIL) petition, has challenged certain sections of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873 which gives unbridled power to a State to prescribe ILP.
- Section 2 of the Regulation empowers a State government to prescribe ‘Inner Line’ to prohibit citizens of India or any class of such citizens going beyond the prescribed line without a pass.
- The Inner Line Permit (ILP) is an official travel document issued by the Government of India to grant inward travel of an Indian citizen into a protected area for a limited period. It is obligatory for Indians residing outside those states to obtain permission prior to entering the protected areas. Currently, the Inner Line Permit is operational in Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and Nagaland. The document has been issued under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873 and the conditions and restrictions vary from state to state.
- It can be issued for travel purposes solely. Visitors are not allowed to purchase property in these regions. However, there might be a different set of rules for long term visitors, though they are not valid for central government employees and security forces.
Chikungunya Disease
24, Jun 2019
Context:
- The Institute of Life Sciences (ILS), which functions under the Department of Biotechnology, has entered into a non•exclusive license for product commercialisation after having successfully developed antibodies against the Chikungunya viral (CHIKV) infection.
Symptoms:
- Symptoms usually begin 3–7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. The most common symptoms are fever and joint pain.
- Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash.
- Chikungunya disease does not often result in death, but the symptoms can be severe and disabling.
- Most patients feel better within a week. In some people, the joint pain may persist for months.
- People at risk for more severe disease include newborns infected around the time of birth, older adults (≥65 years), and people with medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease.
- Once a person has been infected, he or she is likely to be protected from future infections.
Diagnosis:
- The symptoms of chikungunya are similar to those of dengue and Zika, diseases spread by the same mosquitoes that transmit chikungunya.
- See your healthcare provider if you develop the symptoms described above and have visited an area where chikungunya is found.
- If you have recently traveled, tell your healthcare provider when and where you traveled. Your healthcare provider may order blood tests to look for chikungunya or other similar viruses like dengue and Zika.
Treatment:
- There is no vaccine to prevent or medicine to treat chikungunya virus. Treat the symptoms:
- Get plenty of rest.
- Drink fluids to prevent dehydration.
- Take medicine such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or paracetamol to reduce fever and pain.
- Do not take aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS until dengue can be ruled out to reduce the risk of bleeding).
- If you are taking medicine for another medical condition, talk to your healthcare provider before taking additional medication.
- If you have chikungunya, prevent mosquito bites for the first week of your illness.
- During the first week of infection, chikungunya virus can be found in the blood and passed from an infected person to a mosquito through mosquito bites.
- An infected mosquito can then spread the virus to other people.
Report on International Religious Freedom
24, Jun 2019
- The International Religious Freedom Report – describes the status of religious freedom in every country.
- The report covers government policies violating religious belief and practices of groups, religious denominations and individuals, and U.S. policies to promote religious freedom around the world.
- The U.S. Department of State submits the reports in accordance with the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998.
Report States that:
- An Annual Report on International religious freedom released by US Secretary of State Pompeo said Hindu groups had used “violence, intimidation, and harassment” against Muslims and low-caste Dalits in 2017 to force a religion-based national identity.
- Groups claiming to protect cows – considered sacred by Hindus – have attacked Muslims and Dalits. Christians have also been targeted for proselytizing since Modi came to power in 2014.
- National Register of Citizenship in north-eastern state Assam, which could land millions of minorities stateless, also got noticed in the report.
- Indian Stand- MEA rejects U.S. report on state of religious freedom in India A foreign govt. has no locus standi to pronounce on the rights of our citizens
India Granted USD15 Million to Niger for holding African Union Summit
23, Jun 2019
- India has extended USD 15 million assistance to Niger for organising the African Union (AU) summit scheduled to be held in Niamey from July 7-8.
- The support of grant assistance was in response to a specific request made by the Niger government.
- This year, Niger is hosting an AU summit for the first time.
- In this AU summit, the historic African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is likely to be launched.
Background:
- Bilateral ties between India and Niger have expanded significantly since the opening of the Indian Resident Diplomatic Mission in Niamey in 2009.
- India has provided Lines of Credit worth USD 96.54 million to Niger for projects in transport, electrification, solar energy, and potable drinking water.
- India is also establishing the Mahatma Gandhi International Convention Centre (MGICC) in Niamey under grant assistance.
QS World University Ranking 2020: IIT Bombay tops among Indian Institutions
23, Jun 2019
- MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) has made a history by topping the 2020 QS World University Rankings for the eighth consecutive year.
- Stanford University, Harvard University and California Institute of Technology (Caltech) — all retain their positions at second, third and fourth in the world, respectively.
- Only three Indian institutes — IIT-Bombay, IIT-Delhi and IISc-Bangalore making it to top 200 in 2020 QS World University Rankings.
- The Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT-Bombay), has emerged as India’s best institution in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Ranking 2020. IIT Bombay which was at 162nd rank last year has moved up to 152nd rank.
- IIT-Delhi has bagged 182th position and IISc Bangalore has secured 184th rank.
IIIDEM (ECI) organises capacity building program on Electoral Technology
23, Jun 2019
- India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM) (ECI) organized a five-day training program
- The program on Use of Technology in Elections for Election Officials of Union Election Commission of Myanmar.
- The Capacity Building Programs on Electoral technology is the 7th program of 09 programs scheduled across 2018-2019.
- Election Commissioner of India Sushil Chandra shared the need of sharing best practices of Elections among Election Management Bodies
- Their aim is to strengthen the democracy around the world and create transparency
Background:
- India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM) conducted training on Election Management of SAARC Countries.
- It is conducted by Election Commission of India (ECI) and sponsored by the Union Ministry of External Affairs.
35,000 KM Highways to be built by 2022
23, Jun 2019
- The government will build 35,000 km of highways, besides expressways, by 2022.
- Under the ‘Bharatmala Project’, construction or upgradation of about 35,000 kilometres of National Highways is to be undertaken by 2022.
- In addition, under the ‘Sagarmala Project’, a network of good-quality roads is being constructed in coastal areas and areas adjoining ports.
Bill Passed for 16% Maratha Quota in PG Course
23, Jun 2019
- The Maharashtra Legislative Council cleared a bill to provide 16% reservation to the Maratha
- community students in post-graduate (PG) medical courses.
- This comes a day after the bill was unanimously passed in the Legislative Assembly.
- As both the Houses of the Legislature have cleared the bill, it will now be sent to the Governor for his approval.
Modi voted ‘World’s Most Powerful Leader 2019
23, Jun 2019
- PM Narendra Modi was voted the ‘World’s Most Powerful Person 2019’ in the reader’s poll conducted by UK-based British Herald magazine.
- PM Modi received 30.9% of total votes to beat US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
- PM Modi will feature on the cover page of the July 15 edition of the magazine.
Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR)
23, Jun 2019
Why in News?
- In a bid to curtail the rampant cloning and theft of mobile phones across the country, the Telecom Ministry is ready to roll out a Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) — a database of IMEIs, the 15-digit numbers that uniquely identify each mobile device.
Central Equipment Identity Register:
- The concept of a central identity register is advocated by the GSM Association (GSMA), a body representing mobile operators, equipment manufacturers, and software and internet companies, among other stakeholders in the telecom ecosystem.
- In India, the plan to prepare the registry of mobile identification numbers was first conceived in the National Telecom Policy-2012.
- A pilot for the project was developed and conducted by state-owned BSNL’s IT Project Service unit in Pune. In the interim budget for 2019-20, the government allocated Rs 15 crore to the DoT for the CEIR project.
Significance:
- The theft and cloning of mobile phones have become a serious problem.
- The theft of mobile phones is not just a financial loss but also a threat to personal life of the citizens as well as national security.
How will Database work?
- In line with global practices, DoT’s identity register will be a database of IMEI numbers that will consist of three lists – white, grey and black.
- Mobile phones with IMEI numbers in the white list will be permitted for use, while those in the blacklist will be the ones that are reported stolen or lost and will not be allowed to access the network.
- Devices with IMEI numbers in the grey list will be the ones that do not conform to standards but will be permitted to connect under supervision.
Utility of CEIR:
- Once implemented in the coming weeks, consumers in India whose mobile phones are lost or stolen can inform the Department of Telecom (DoT) via a helpline number after filing a report with police. The DoT can then blacklist the IMEI number, effectively blocking the mobile device from accessing any cellular network in the future.
- The CEIR will have access to GSMA’s global IMEI database, allowing comparison of IMEI numbers to identify counterfeit devices.
IMEI:
- The International Mobile Equipment Identity or IMEI is a number, usually unique to identify 3GPP and mobile phones, as well as some satellite phones.
- GSM networks use the IMEI number to identify valid devices, and can stop a stolen phone from accessing the network.
- For example, if a mobile phone is stolen, the owner can have their network provider use the IMEI number to blacklist the phone.
- This renders the phone useless on that network and sometimes other networks, even if the thief changes the phone’s subscriber identity module (SIM).
- The IMEI only identifies the device and has no particular relationship to the subscriber. The phone identifies the subscriber by transmitting the International mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) number, which it stores on a SIM card that can, in theory, be transferred to any handset. However, the network’s ability to know a subscriber’s current, individual device enables many network and security features.
Asean Vows to Tackle Plastic Waste
23, Jun 2019
- It is learned that five countries viz; China, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand dump more than half of the eight million tonnes of plastic waste that end up in oceans every year.
- This was reported by the Ocean Conservancy report.
What is Ocean Conservancy Report?
- It is an international NGO that strives to keep the oceans clean. Founded in 1972.
- Their first initiative was the Whale Protection Fund, which focused on saving whales and protesting commercial whaling by Russia and Japan.
- Ocean Conservancy seeks solutions for a healthy ocean and the wildlife and communities that depend on it.
Bangkok Declaration 2019:
- ASEAN leaders are expected to sign the declararion on fighting the marine waste – to prevent and significantly reduce marine debris.
- The agreement does not impose penalities on countries or companies which fail to specify measures to tackle the problem.
- It does not mention anything on single use plastics which are more harmful for the nature.
What are single Use Plastics?
- Single-use plastics, often also referred to as disposable plastics, are commonly used for plastic packaging7 and include items intended to be used only once before they are thrown away or recycled.
- These include, among other items, grocery bags, food packaging, bottles, straws, containers, cups and cutlery.
Other issue with Plastic Waste:
These Southeast Asian nations are the world’s top importers of trash from developed countries like the U.S and Canada.
These wastes often end up in landfills and waterways without being properly processed.
Government to extend foreign currency loans to Exporters
23, Jun 2019
- India is a net importer of commodities.
- This impacts India’s balance of payments, hence the country needs to strengthen its exports. In order to boost exports, the government has subsidized several trade related issues. However, such steps have been inadequate. Moreover, they have burdened the exchequer.
- Hence the government now plans to enhance foreign currency loans by working with bankers. The government has decided to enhance the role of Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India as an agency for exporters.
What is Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India?
- ECGC Ltd. (Formerly known as Export Credit Guarantee Corporation of India Ltd.) wholly owned by Government of India, was set up in 1957.
- It was set up with the objective of promoting exports from the country by providing credit risk insurance and related services for exports.
- ECGC is essentially an export promotion organization, seeking to improve the competitiveness of the Indian exports by providing them with credit insurance covers.
- The Corporation has introduced various export credit insurance schemes to meet the requirements of commercial banks extending export credit. The insurance covers enable the banks to extend timely and adequate export credit facilities to the exporters.
ECGC Provides:
- A range of insurance covers to Indian exporters against the risk of non – realization of export proceeds due to commercial or political risks
- Different types of credit insurance covers to banks and other financial institutions to enable them to extend credit facilities to exporters and
- Export Factoring facility for MSME sector which is a package of financial products consisting of working capital financing, credit risk protection, maintenance of sales ledger and collection of export receivables from the buyer located in overseas
NATIONAL ACCREDITATION BOARD FOR CERTIFICATION BODIES (NABCB)
22, Jun 2019
Why in News?
- The National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies (NABCB), India’s national accreditation body, secured international equivalence for its accreditation programme for personnel certification bodies in the annual meetings of the Asia Pacific Accreditation Cooperation in Singapore today.
Highlights:
- NABCB has currently accredited one certification body for Personnel Certification and has 4 applicants.
- This programme will help professionals to get certified based on their competence in any required field.
- NABCB is already supporting Ministry of AYUSH and has accredited a certification body for certification for Yoga professionals. This would promote Yoga certification scheme internationally.
Significance:
- With the above recognition, NABCB hopes to facilitate export of Indian services and skills into the world market by attesting that persons are certified following international standards by the certifying bodies.
- Personnel Certification would support many professionals in India, especially those who do not have formal education or certificate programme.
- Any person carrying ISO/IEC 17024 certificate with NABCB logo will be recognized internationally.
- It can also be used by regulators for establishing confidence in certified personnel for different activities.
- This signifies that the accreditation of personnel certification bodies by NABCB is now accepted as equivalent at international level
NABCB:
- NABCB, a constituent Board of the Quality Council of India provides accreditation to Certification and Inspection Bodies based on assessment of their competence as per the Board’s criteria and in accordance with International Standards and Guidelines.
- NABCB is internationally recognized and represents the interests of the Indian industry at international forums through membership and active participation with the objective of becoming a signatory to international Multilateral / Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MLA / MRA).
INDIA TO RAISE TERROR, FINANCIAL CRIMES AT G20 SUMMIT
22, Jun 2019
Theme “Human Centered Future Society”
- Issue to be taken up:
-
- Digital economy
- Artificial Intelligence
- Global Health
- Ageing
- Marine Plastic
What is DFFT or Data Free Flow with Trust?
- This is a new principle emerging among the global economies where they wish unrestricted, yet accountable flow of data over a localized data.
- It underlying principles are:
- Rather than tell firms where they can store or process data, policymakers should hold firms accountable for managing data they collect, regardless of where they store or process it.
- Countries should revise the inefficient processes and outdated legal agreements that govern law enforcement requests for access to data stored in another country’s jurisdiction.
- Countries should develop the legal and administrative frameworks (with respective checks and balances) that allow Internet service providers to block data flows that involve the illegal distribution and use of unlicensed content.
- Countries should support and not undermine encryption’s role in securing data flows and digital technologies.
Money-laundering and its prevention:
Terror Funding:
What is FATF?
- The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an inter-governmental body
- established in 1989 by the Ministers of its Member jurisdictions.
- The objectives of the FATF are to set standards and promote effective implementation of legal, regulatory and operational measures for combating money laundering, terrorist financing and other related threats to the integrity of the international financial system.
- The FATF currently comprises 36 member jurisdictions and 2 regional organisations, representing most major financial centres in all parts of the globe.
- In June 2018, Pakistan was placed in the ‘grey list’ and given a 27 point action plan.
What does this mean for the Country?
- Pakistan’s banking channel could be adversely affected as it is inevitably linked with the international financial system.
- Foreign financial institutions may carry out enhanced checking of transactions with Pakistan to avoid risk of violations pertaining to money laundering and financing of terrorism.
- Another affected is the sentiment of foreign investors.
Which are the other countries in the grey list?
- The other countries on the list, in alphabetical order, are Ethiopia, Serbia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia and Yemen.
What is Black List?
- Black list makes more stringent restrictions on the countries in the list. This black list comprises Iran and North Korea.
Other Facts:
- The FATF implements UN designations, which do not warrant arrest.
- They ask only to freeze funds, denial of access to weapons and travel embargo
OPERATION BANDAR CODE
22, Jun 2019
- Operation Bandar’ code name of Balakot strike
Air Strike:
- 12 Mirages having taken off from multiple air bases crossed over into the Pakistani air space and carried out missile attacks in Balakot town of Khyber Pakhtunwa province
GROWING HORNS’ WITH PHONE OVERUSE
22, Jun 2019
- New research in biomechanics suggests that young people are developing hornlike spikes at the back of their skulls — bone spurs caused by the forward tilt of the head, which shifts weight from the spine to the muscles at the back of the head, causing bone growth in the connecting tendons and ligaments.
- Smartphones and other handheld devices are contorting the human form, requiring users to bend their heads forward to make sense of what’s happening on the miniature screens.
INDIA’S FOREST COVER INCREASED
22, Jun 2019
Context:
- Forest cover of India increased by 2%
State of Forests Report:
- Is a biennial publication of FSI, an organization under MoEFCC, GoI. ISFR 2017 is the 15th in the series since 1987
- Forest cover of the country is mapped through indigenous RESOURCESAT -2 satellite
- data with a LISS III sensor.
- The LISS-III (Linear Imaging Self Scanning Sensor) sensor is an optical sensor working in four spectral bands (Green, Red, near Infrared and short-wave infrared). It covers a 141km-wide swath with a resolution of 23 metres in all spectral bands.
- It provides the estimates of
-
- Growing stock within and outside the forest areas
- Special thematic information on forest cover in hill,
- tribal and north eastern states
- Carbon Sink
- Bamboo
- Mangrove cover
Recorded Forest Area and Forest Blank
- The area recorded as “forests” in the Government records is called Forest Area or Recorded Forest Area.
- The patches within the forest area which have little or no trees are called “Forest Blank”
The report for the First Time Contains:
- Information on decadal change in water bodies in forest during 2005-2015
- Forest fire
- Production of timber from outside forest
- State wise carbon stock in different forest types and density classes
Classification of Forest Cover into density classes
- Very Dense (Canopy Density > 70%)
- Moderate Dense (Canopy Density 40% to 70%)
- Open Forest (Canopy Density 10% to 40%)
- Scrub: Degraded forest lands (Canopy density <10%) Non-forest: Lands not included in above classes
Top Five States / UTs that have shown the maximum increase in forest cover are:
- Andhra Pradesh (2141 sq.km)
- Karnataka (1101 sq.km)
- Kerala (1043 sq.km)
- Odisha (885 sq.km)
- Telangana (565 sq.km)
Top 5 States where Forest cover has Decreased are:
- Mizoram (531 sq.km)
- Nagaland (450 sq.km)
- Arunachal Pradesh (190 sq.km)
- Tripura (164 sq.km)
- Meghalaya (116 sq.km)
Top three states/UTs having the largest forest cover in terms of area are:
- Madhya Pradesh (77414 sq.km)
- Arunachal Pradesh (66964 sq.km)
- Chhattisgarh (55547 sq.km)
Important Terms: / Canopy and Canopy Density:
The cover of branches and Foliage formed by the crown of trees is called Canopy. The percentage area of land covered by the canopy of trees is called Canopy density.
Forest Cover:
- All lands which are More Than 1 Hectare in Area and with a Canopy density of more than 10% irrespective of the ownership and legal status is called Forest Cover.
- Also, it does not make any distinction whether the forest is natural or manmade forest, government or private, recorded or not recorded. It includes bamboo, orchards, palm etc.
Carbon Stock:
- It is defined as the amount of carbon stored in the ecosystem of the forest especially in living biomass and soil
SUMMER SOLSTICE
22, Jun 2019
- Summer Solstice 21 June is longest Day in Northern hemisphere of globe.
- In the northern hemisphere, summer solstice, or longest day of the year, takes place between June 20 and 22 each year.
What Exactly Happens:
- Summer Solstice
- There are two solstices each year – one in the winter and one in the summer. The summer solstice occurs when the tilt of Earth’s axis is most inclined towards the sun and is directly above the Tropic of Cancer.
- It might seem like a day to celebrate, but it actually signals the moment the sun’s path stops moving northward in the sky, and the start of days becoming steadily shorter as the slow march towards winter begins.
Winter Solstice-
- At the winter solstice, the Earth’s axis is tilted furthest away from the sun directly over the Tropic of Capricorn bringing only a few hours of daylight.
- In the southern hemisphere the dates of the two solstices are reversed. The winter solstice occurs on the same day in June and the summer solstice the same day in December.
- The term ‘solstice’ derives from the Latin word ‘solstitium’, meaning ‘sun standing still’. Some prefer the more teutonic term ‘sunturn’ to describe the event.
ILO ADOPTS #MeToo PACT AGAINST HARASSMENT AT WORKPLACE
22, Jun 2019
Context:
- The U.N. agency overseeing international labour standards adopted on Friday a new treaty against violence and harassment in the workplace, fueled by the women’s #MeToo movement.
- The convention, which will be binding on governments that ratify it, was agreed by a wide margin on the final day of the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) annual conference of governments, employers’ groups and workers.
- Sexual harassment mainly adds deprivations of women of their opportunity to work and free choice of the profession.
Vishaka Guidelines:
- Vishaka and others v/s state of Rajasthan is a case which deals with the evil of Sexual Harassment of a women at her workplace.
- It is a landmark judgment case in the history of sexual harassment which as being decide by Supreme Court.
- Present civil and penal laws in India do not adequately provide for specific protection of women from sexual harassment in work places and that enactment of such legislation will take considerable time,
- It is necessary and expedient for employers in work places as well as other responsible persons or institutions to observe certain guidelines to ensure the prevention of sexual harassment of women.
Mechanism for complaint in House Mechanism:
- The complaint mechanism, should be adequate to provide, where necessary, a Complaints Committee, a special counsellor or other support service, including the maintenance of confidentiality.
- The Complaints Committee should be headed by a woman and not less than half of its member should be women. Further, to prevent the possibility of any undue pressure or influence from senior levels, such Complaints Committee should involve a third party, either NGO or other body who is familiar with the issue of sexual harassment.
- The Complaints Committee must make an annual report to the Government
- department concerned of the complaints and action taken by them.
Why there is need of Vishaka Guidelines.
- If any strict action will not be taken towards this crime, it will directly hamper the working ration of the women in India and on other hand it will hamper the economic situation of India.
- Government should make strict laws regarding the aversion of sexual harassment at workplace, because it should realize that, women also constitute the working population of our country.
- It should be abolished to prevent the dignity and the respect of the women.
- Various new approaches and skills shall be implemented by the institutions, organisations to prevent there women employees from such a social evil.
- The main objective behind the stabilization of this right is to promote gender equality at workplace without any kind of discrimination and discernment among the workers of an organisation.
What is ILO?
- The only tripartite U.N. agency, since 1919 the ILO brings together governments, employers and workers of 187 member States, to set labour standards, develop policies and devise programmes promoting decent work for all women and men.
- The unique Tripartite Structure of the ILO gives an equal voice to workers, employers and governments to ensure that the views of the social partners are closely reflected in labour standards and in shaping policies and programmes.
- The ILO became the First Specialized Agency of the UN in 1946.
- The International labour Conference: – sets the International labour standards and the broad policies of the ILO. It meets annually in Geneva. Often called an international parliament of labour, the Conference is also a forum for discussion of key social and labour questions. The Governing body is the executive council of the ILO. It meets three times a year in Geneva. It takes decisions on ILO policy and establishes the programme and the budget, which it then submits to the Conference for adoption.
- The International Labour Office is the permanent secretariat of the International Labour Organization. It is the focal point for International Labour Organization’s overall activities, which it prepares under the scrutiny of the Governing Body and under the leadership of the Director-General.
What is the #MeToo movement?
- The ‘me too.’ movement was founded in 2006 to help survivors of sexual violence, particularly Black women and girls, and other young women of color from low wealth communities, find pathways to healing.
- In less than six months, because of the viral #metoo hashtag, a vital conversation about sexual violence has been thrust into the national dialogue.
- The ‘me too’ movement supports survivors of sexual violence and their allies by connecting survivors to resources, offering community organizing resources, pursuing a ‘me too’ policy platform, and gathering sexual violence researchers and research.
- Girls for Gender Equity (GGE) is the fiscal sponsor of the ‘me too.’ movement, and receives tax-deductible charitable contributions for the benefit and use of implementing the ‘me too.’ movement’s programming.
- GGE is a New York nonprofit benefit corporation located in Brooklyn, New York, U.S.
TRIPLE TALAQ
22, Jun 2019
Context:
- Triple Talaq bill again introduced by NDA government in Lok Sabha.
About:
- The Bill makes all declaration of talaq, including in written or electronic form, to be void (i.e. not enforceable in law) and illegal.
- It defines talaq as Talaq-e-biddat or any other similar form of talaq pronounced by a Muslim man resulting in instant and irrevocable divorce.
- Talaq-e-biddat refers to the practice under Muslim personal laws where pronouncement of the word ‘talaq’ thrice in one sitting by a Muslim man to his wife results in an instant and irrevocable divorce.
Offence and Penalty:
- The Bill makes declaration of talaq a cognizable offence, attracting up to three years’ imprisonment with a fine. (A cognizable offence is one for which a police officer may arrest an accused person without warrant.)
- The offence will be cognizable only if information relating to the offence is given by:
- (i) The married woman (against whom talaq has been declared), or
- (ii) Any person related to her by blood or Mariage
Feature:
- The Bill provides that the Magistrate may grant bail to the accused. The bail may be granted only after hearing the woman (against whom talaq has been pronounced), and if the Magistrate is satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for granting bail.
- Allowance: A Muslim woman against whom talaq has been declared, is entitled to seek subsistence allowance from her husband for herself and for her dependent children. The amount of the allowance will be determined by the Magistrate.
- Custody: A Muslim woman against whom such talaq has been declared, is entitled to seek custody of her minor children. The manner of custody will be determined by the Magistrate
ANTI DEFECTION LAW
22, Jun 2019
Context:
- 5 TDP members of Rajya Sabha defected in BJP party.
About:
- The Anti-Defection law sought to prevent such political defections which may be due to reward of office or other similar considerations.
- 10th Schedule
- Power to disqualify bears with Speaker/ Chairman of House.
- A legislator is deemed to have defected if he either voluntarily gives up the membership of his party or disobeys the directives of the party leadership on a vote.
Background:
- Anti-Defection Law was passed in 1985 through 52nd amendment of constitution.
Disqualification Grounds:
- If member of house belonging to a political party
- Voluntary gives membership of his political
- Votes or does not vote contrary to directions of his party. If an independent candidate joins a political party after
- Nominated member is allowed to join a political party provided he joins such political party of his choices within a period of six months. After that period, joining a political party would lead to defection and disqualification.
Disqualification Authority:
- The question whether a member is subject to disqualification in all other matters except under 10th Schedule (disqualification) is Decided by President. However, President should obtain the opinion of the election commission before taking such decision.
- The Question of Disqualification under Anti-defection / Tenth Schedule is decided by the Chairman in the case of Rajya Sabha {i.e. Vice-President} and Speaker in the case of Lok Sabha.
When Defection is not Applied:
- Person shall not be disqualified if his political party merger with another party.
- Person and other members do not accept the merger and opt to function as a separate group.
- This exception shall operate only if not less than two third of the members of party in house have agreed to the agreed to the merger.
REN21’S Renewable 2019 Global Status Report
19, Jun 2019
Why in News?
- The REN21’s Renewable 2019 Global Status Report (GSR) was recently released.
Global prospects of the Report:
- Renewables now supply around 26 per cent of global electricity production but the transport, cooling and heating sectors lag far behind in renewable adoption.
- Underlining the subsidy support being given to fossil fuel, the GSR read that lack of political will and fossil fuel subsidies are threatening to derail the crucial UN 2030 Climate and Development Goals.
- Renewable energy’s share in power consumption is increasing undoubtedly, but people would have consumed more had policy makers prioritized the sector. Erratic policy decisions kept the world from using the sector to its potential in meeting climate change targets, added the report.
Indian Case:
- India ranked fourth globally for new investment in renewable energy in 2018.
- India’s new power generation capacity from solar photovoltaic panels decreased compared to 2017, according to the report.
- However, India placed fifth, overtaking Italy, with 33 gigawatts (GW) total installed capacity. The report confirmed that installed renewable power capacity was more than that of fossil fuel and nuclear power combined for the fourth consecutive year.
- Around 100 GW of solar PV were added in 2018 which is enough to meet more than 25 per cent of electricity demand in France.
Decrease in Investments:
- Lack of ambitious and sustained policies to drive decarburizing in heating, cooling and transport sectors indicates that countries are not trying to maximise the benefit of energy transition.
- The investment has decreased 16 per cent compared to 2017. It attributes this to factors like:
-
- Land and transmission constraints,
- 25 per cent safeguard duty on imports from China and Malaysia
- Flaws in tender scheme
- Tax uncertainties
Epistocracy
19, Jun 2019
- Epistocracy is a system in which the votes of people who can prove their political knowledge count more than the votes of people who can’t.
- In other words, it’s a system that privileges the most politically informed citizens.
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
19, Jun 2019
Objective:
- With a view to Augment the Income of the Small and Marginal Farmers (SMFs), the Government has launched a new Central Sector Scheme, namely, “Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)” in the current financial year.
- The PM-KISAN scheme aims to supplement the financial needs of the SMFs in Procuring Various Inputs to ensure proper Crop Health and appropriate yields, commensurate with the anticipated farm income at the end of each crop cycle.
- This would also Protect them from Falling in The Clutches of Moneylenders for meeting such expenses and ensure their continuance in the farming activities
Definition of Families:
- The SMFs landholder farmer family is defined as “a family comprising of husband, wife and minor children who collectively own cultivable land upto 2 hectare as per land records of the concerned State/UT”
Fund:
- Financial year 2018-19, a budget provision of Rs. 20,000 crores has been kept.
Benefit to Eligible SMFs:
- Under the Scheme, a Direct Payment of Rs. 6000 per year will be transferred in three equal instalments of Rs. 2000 Every Four Months into the Aadhar ceded bank accounts of eligible landholding SMFs families.
Monitoring of the Scheme:
- For effective review and monitoring of the scheme, a Project Monitoring Unit (PMU) at Central level will be set up in DAC & FW.
National Company Law Tribunal
19, Jun 2019
- The statutory body has constituted National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) under section 408 of the Companies Act, 2013
- It is a quasi-judicial body in nature.
Significance:
- Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (Bankruptcy Code), also provides wide powers to the NCLT to adjudicate upon the ‘insolvency resolution process’ and liquidation of corporate debtors.
- NCLAT is also the Appellate Tribunal to hear and dispose of appeals against any direction issued or decision made or order passed by the Competition Commission of India.
World Population Prospects 2019: UN
19, Jun 2019
- According to the World Population Prospects 2019, India Will Become the Most Populous Nation by 2027.
- The 2019 revision of the World Population Prospects is the twenty-sixth edition of the United Nations population estimates and projections.
- It presents population estimates from 1950 to the present for 235 countries or areas, underpinned by analyses of historical demographic trends.
- India’s population will touch 1.64 billion by 2050, while that of China would come down by 1.4 billion.
India’s Demographic dividend will peak by 2047:
- Although absolute numbers in population is increasing in India, the rate of growth is declining. The rate of growth of population is highest in Sub- Saharan Africa.
- Nigeria is expected to add 200 million to the world population thereby replacing U.S to become the third most populous country. In India the working age population is growing faster than other groups. Globally it’s the post working age population that is growing the fastest. This implies that India should invest more on education and health especially on young people.
Key Facts of the Report:
- Confirms that the world’s population continues to grow, albeit at a slowing rate.
- Highlights the unprecedented ageing of the world’s population.
- Describes how international migration has become an important determinant of population growth and change in some parts of the world.
- Confirms the ongoing global increase in longevity and the narrowing gap between rich and poor countries.
Joint Monitoring Programme (JMP) report by UN Organisations
19, Jun 2019
- Almost 2/3rd of the global population which stopped defecating openly between 2000 and 2017 has been from India.
- However there has been no growth in the population with access to piped water facilities. Large inequalities remain between urban and rural areas.
- Increase in population (with access to protected drinking water facilities within 30 metres) from 79% in 2000 to 93% in 2017.
- In rural India only 32% have access to piped water, in urban areas it is 68%.
- The South Asian region, accounted for almost three-fourths of the population who stopped defecating in open between 2000 and 2017.
- Only 30% of the country’s wastewater is treated at plants, in comparison to 80% global average.
What is JMP?
- The Joint WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme is affiliated to UN- Water and was Established in 1990.
- The JMP’s objectives are to provide regular global reports on drinking-water and sanitation coverage to facilitate sector planning and management, to support countries in their efforts to improve their monitoring systems, and to provide information for advocacy.
- For the Sustainable Development Goals, the JMP uses its 25 years of experience, and focuses on drinking water, sanitation and hygiene. The Joint Monitoring Programme report, Progress on drinking water, sanitation and hygiene: 2017 update and Sustainable Development Goal baselines, presents the first global assessment of “safely managed” drinking water and sanitation services. JMP is part of the UN-Water Integrated Monitoring Initiative for SDG 6, reporting on progress towards SDG targets 6.1 and 6.2.
Data Localisation
19, Jun 2019
Context:
- RBI last year mandated companies to store their payments data “only in India” so that the regulator could have “unfettered supervisory access”.
- The RBI will examine concerns around its strict data localisation rules that require storing of customer data exclusively in India without creating mirror sites overseas.
What is Data Localisation:
- Data localisation laws refer to regulations that dictate how data on a nation’s citizens is collected, processed and stored inside the country.
Significance of Data Localisation:
- Data localisation is critical for law enforcement.
- Access to data by Indian law agencies, in case of a breach or threat, cannot be dependent on the whims and fancies, nor on lengthy legal processes of another nation that hosts data generated in India.
What India can do:
- It may not be wise for India to have the liberal rules as developed nation.
Legislation backup:
- Only Mandatory rule on data localisation in India is by the Reserve Bank of India for payment systems. Justice Sri krishna Committee report – to identify key data protection issues in India and recommend methods of addressing them”.
Libra Facebook Cryptocurrency
19, Jun 2019
Context:
- Facebook has linked with 28 partners in a Geneva-based entity called the Libra Association, which will govern its new digital coin set to launch in the first half of 2020.
- Facebook has also created a subsidiary called Calibra, which will offer digital wallets to save, send and spend Libras.
- Calibra will be connected to Facebook’s messaging platforms Messenger and WhatsApp.
- Calibra will conduct compliance checks on customers who want to use Libra, using verification and anti-fraud processes that are common among banks.
- Libra is a global currency and financial infrastructure.
- it is a digital asset built by Facebook and powered by a new Facebook-created version of blockchain, the encrypted technology used by bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
Why Libra?
- Facebook claims it wants to reach the 1.7 billion people around the world who do not have access to a Bank Account.
Authority Incharge:
- The Libra Association is described by Facebook as an independent, not-for-profit organisation based in Switzerland.
- It serves two main functions:
-
- To Validate Transactions on the Libra blockchain and
- To Manage the Reserve Libra is tied to and allocate funds to social
- It functions as what is known as a “Stablecoin”, pegged to existing assets like the dollar or euro, in the aim of making it less subject to the volatility that many Cryptocurrencies Experience.
What is a Cryptocurrency?
- A cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography for security.
Advantages:
- A cryptocurrency is Difficult to Counterfeit because of the security feature of blockchain technology.
- It is not issued by any central authority, rendering it theoretically immune to government interference or manipulation.
- Cryptocurrencies hold the promise of making it easier to transfer funds directly between two parties in a transaction, without the need for a trusted third party such as a bank or credit card company; these transfers are facilitated through the use of public keys and private keys for security purposes.
- Fund transfers are done with minimal processing fees, allowing users to avoid the steep fees charged by most banks and financial institutions for wire transfers.
- At the same time, there is no central authority, government, or corporation that has access to your funds or your personal information.
Disadvantages:
- The Semi-Anonymous Nature of Cryptocurrency Transactions makes them well- suited for a host of nefarious activities, such as money laundering and tax evasion.
- Since prices are based on supply and demand, the rate at which a cryptocurrency can be exchanged for another currency can fluctuate widely.
- The first cryptocurrency to capture the public imagination was Bitcoin, which was launched in 2009 by an individual or group known under the pseudonym, Satoshi Nakamoto.
- Bitcoin’s success has spawned a number of competing cryptocurrencies, known as “Altcoins” such as Litecoin, Namecoin and Peercoin, as well as Ethereum, EOS, and Cardano.
Cryptocurrency in India:
- RBI does not recognize any sort of Cryptocurrency as legal tender.
- The Reserve Bank has explicitly said that “entities regulated by RBI shall not deal with or provide services to any individual or business entities dealing with or settling VCs”.
Godavari Mangroves at Coringa Wildlife
19, Jun 2019
Context:
- The government has begun the process to get UNESCO’s World Heritage Site status for Godavari Mangroves at Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, near Kakinada.
- Once the Coringa sanctuary gets the heritage site tag, UNESCO will help develop tourism and protect the wildlife in the mangroves.
- Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary is 18 km from the port city of Kakinada. This sanctuary is a part of the Godavari estuary
UNESCO’s World Heritage:
Mission:
- Encourage countries to sign the World Heritage Convention and to ensure the protection of their natural and cultural heritage. Encourage States Parties to establish management plans and set up reporting systems on the state of conservation of their World Heritage sites; Provide emergency assistance for World Heritage sites in immediate danger
Funding:
- The World Heritage Fund provides about US$4 million annually to support activities requested by States Parties in need of international assistance.
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a place that is listed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as of special cultural or physical significance.
- It is maintained by the international World Heritage Programme
Status of Sites:
- The designated sites mainly get protection as legal status is granted under the programme
-
- Mainly Protection in War Times
- Geneva Convention, its Articles, Protocols and Customs
- Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict and international
Speaker
19, Jun 2019
Context:
- MP Om Birla named as choice for Speaker’s post.
- He is presiding officer of Lok sabha.
- He is the guardian of powers and privileges of members and committees of Lok Sabha
Duration in Office:
- Speaker remains in office during the life of Lok Sabha (he needs to remain member of Lok Sabha).
- When the office of Lok Sabha speaker falls vacant, the members elect another speaker on a date fixed by the President.
- Whenever Lok Sabha is dissolved, the Speaker continues to remain in office until immediately before the first meeting of Lok Sabha after it is reconstituted.
Resignation:
- Disqualified if ceases to be the member of House Addressing a resignation letter to Deputy Speaker
Removal:
- Speaker can be removed by the members of Lok Sabha by a resolution passed by Absolute Majority {Majority of the Total Members of the House} of Lok Sabha.
- 14 days advanced notice must be given for such resolution.
- The Motion of Removal can be considered and discussed only when it has the support of at least 50 Members.
- If resolution is under consideration of the house, Speaker Cannot Preside the Meeting, but can participate in the house and vote in the first instance though not in the case of an equality of votes.
Powers and Functions:
- The Guardian of powers and privileges of members and committees of Lok Sabha. To Maintain order and decorum in Lok Sabha
- His interpretations of constitutional provisions, rules and regulations related to Lok Sabha are final.
- Adjournment of Lok Sabha is done by Speaker
- During voting in the house on a bill or other matters, he does not vote in the first instance. However, if there is a tie due to equal votes, speaker exercises the casting vote
- Joint sittings of both the houses of parliament are although called by President but presided by Lok Sabha speaker.
- On the request of the Leader of the House, Speaker may allow a secret meeting.
- Whether a bill is money bill or not, is decided by Speaker and his decision in this matter is final.
- Disqualification of Members of House-
- Speaker decides the question of disqualification of Lok Sabha members in matters of tenth schedule / anti-defection law. This decision is subject to judicial
- He is the Ex-Officio Chairman of Indian Parliamentary Group of the Inter- parliamentary Union.
- Chairman of all the parliamentary committees of Lok Sabha are appointed by Speaker, provided such committees does not need an elected chairman
- Speaker himself is the chairman of
- Business Advisory Committee,
- Rules Committee and
- General Purpose
- The Secretary General of the Lok Sabha is appointed by the Speaker.
Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha:
- If Speaker of Lok Sabha is not available, his duties are carried out by Deputy Speaker Election– A Deputy Speaker is elected by the Lok Sabha members from amongst themselves.
- Election of Deputy Speaker is done after election of Speaker.
- Deputy speaker is not subordinate to the Speaker and is directly responsible to Lok Sabha.
- If Deputy Speaker is also not present, a person appointed by President will discharge the duties.
Pro Tem Speaker:
- President appoints a speaker Pro Tem for the first meeting of the newly elected Lok Sabha. He is appointed to administer oath to the new members and enable the house to elect a new speaker (Before Oath they cannot be member of house and participate in proceeding).
Mendeleev and his Periodic Table of Elements
18, Jun 2019
The Modern Periodic Table:
- The periodic table is an arrangement of all the elements known to man in accordance with their increasing atomic number and recurring chemical properties.
- They are assorted in a tabular arrangement wherein a row is a period and a column is a group. Until 1863, the world was aware of only 56 known elements.
- The rate of scientific progress was such that every year, a new element was being discovered. It was during this time that Mendeleev came up with the idea of the Periodic Table.
- He published the Periodic Table in his book– The Relation between the Properties and Atomic Weights of the Elements.
- Mendeleev said that he arrived at the idea in his dream, where he saw all chemical elements falling into place on a table according to their chemical properties.
- Mendeleev had found a definitive pattern following which, each element could be placed according to their atomic weight.
- He had also predicted the qualities of the ‘missing’ (yet to be discovered) elements and gave them Sanskrit names.
Evolution of the Table:
- The noble gases including helium (He), neon (Ne), argon (Ar), krypton (Kr), xenon (Xe), and radon (Rn) were added to the table between 1895 and 1901.
- Likewise, additions have been made to the periodic table as new elements have been discovered in the last hundred years.
- In 1914, English physicist Henry Gwyn-Jeffries Moseley found out that each atomic nucleus can be assigned a number, according to the number of protons in that atom. This changed the way the periodic table worked. The table was redesigned according to the atomic number of elements rather than their atomic weight. Rare-earth elements, including the elements in the Lanthanide series, were included in the atomic table in the late 19th century.
SHADOW BANKING SYSTEM
18, Jun 2019
- A shadow banking system is the group of financial intermediaries facilitating the creation of credit across the global financial system but whose members are not subject to regulatory oversight. The shadow banking system also refers to unregulated activities by regulated institutions. The shadow banking system consists of lenders, brokers, and other credit intermediaries who fall outside the realm of traditional regulated banking. These include investment banks, mortgage lenders, money market funds, insurance companies, hedge funds, private equity funds and payday lenders, all of which are a significant and growing source of credit in the economy.
- One of the leading factors that caused the financial crisis of 2007 was the risk taking and failure of shadow banks in the advanced countries.
- In India, the NBFCs are sometimes categorized as the shadow banking sector, though they are well regulated now. In the context of the developing countries, the shadow banking sector plays an important role in promoting financial inclusion. They are very customer friendly, market oriented, innovative and flexible.
- The main advantages of shadow banks lie in their ability to reduce transaction costs, their quick decision-making ability, and customer orientation and prompt delivery of services.
- New Directive under IT Act, 1961. Issued by Central Board of Direct Taxes, under“Compounding of Offences Under Direct Tax Laws, 2019”.
- A person cannot get any sort of relief in an Income Tax evasion offence, if he/she indulges in serious criminal cases of money laundering, terror financing, corruption, possession of benami properties and undisclosed foreign assets.
UN CONVENTION ON HATE SPEECH
18, Jun 2019
- United Nations (UN) Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (the CERD) conducts discussion on “Hate Speech” in the context of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (the Convention) to enhance understanding of the causes and consequences of racist hate speech.
- The Universal Declaration of Human Rights both prohibits discrimination and protects freedom of expression. It is well-established in international human rights law that the right to freedom of expression, though not absolute, is a fundamental right which may only be restricted in certain limited circumstances.
- The conditions in which restrictions are allowed are set out in Article 19(3) and 20 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), as well as numerous regional treaties also ratified by many States parties to the Convention.
India’s First Dinosaur Museum-Cum- Park in Gujarat
18, Jun 2019
Why in News:
- Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani inaugurated India’s first Dinosaur-Museum-cum-Park in Balasinor city in the Mahisagar district.
Highlights:
- It is set to give visitors a Jurassic Park kind of feel.
- The museum is located in Raiyoli area in Balasinor city which exhibit remains of various dinosaurs and fossil records. Dinosaur Museum cum Park is the first such park in the country and the world’s third park. Raiyoli area is the third largest dinosaur fossil site in the world and it is also the second largest dinosaur hatchery in the world, where thousands of eggs had been found.
- It is equipped with modern technology like 3D projection, virtual reality presentations, interactive kiosks and life-size dinosaur replicas.
- It will display the evolution of dinosaurs on earth and probable reasons for their extinction. It is a world-class tourism spot and will prove useful to students as well as experts.
BT BRINJAL
18, Jun 2019
- Bacillus Thuringiensis Brinjal, popularly known as Bt brinjal is a type of Genetically Modified crop.
- Bt brinjal, a genetically modified strain created by inserting Cry 1Ac gene from the soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis into Brinjal.
- It gives resistance against Lepidopteron insects like brinjal fruit and shoot borer and fruit borer. Mechanism- ingestion
- of Bt toxin by insect there is disruption of digestive process resulting in death of insect.
Concern:
- Potential health effects.
- terminator seed- i.e. farmer will be compel to buy seed from the company every time.
Genetically Modified Crop:
- It Involves inserting DNA into Genome of an organism
- UPSC question on Genetic Modified Crops- 2018.
NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION (NHRC)
18, Jun 2019
- It is a Statutory Body the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India was established on 12 October, 1993.
- It is in conformity with the Paris Principles, Section 2(1)(d) of the PHRA defines Human Rights as the rights relating to life, liberty, equality and dignity of the individual guaranteed by the Constitution or embodied in the International Covenants and enforceable by courts in India.
Composition:
- NHRC comprises of a chairman and four members. The chairman should be a retired chief justice of India.
- The other members should be
-
- One Member who is, or has been, a Judge of the Supreme Court of India
- One Member who is, or has been, the Chief Justice of a High Court
- Two Members to be appointed from among persons having knowledge of, or practical experience in, matters related to human
Members appointed by committee consist of:
- Prime Minister (chairperson) Home Minister
- Speaker of the Lok Sabha
- Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha
Functions of NHRC:
- Inquire suo motu or on a petition presented to it, by a victim, or any person on his be into complaint of violation of human rights or negligence in the prevention of such violation by a public servant.
- Intervene in any proceeding involving any allegation of violation of human rights before a Court with the approval of such Court.
- Visit any jail or detention places to study the living conditions of the inmates and make recommendations thereon
- Review the safeguards provided by or under the constitution of any law for the time being in force for the protection of human rights and recommend measures for their effective implementation.
- Review the factors, including acts of terrorism that inhibit the enjoyment of human rights and recommend appropriate remedial measures.
- Undertake and promote research in the field of human rights.
- Spread human rights literacy among various sections of society and promote awareness of the safeguards available for the protection of these rights.
- Encourage the efforts of Non-Governmental organizations and institutions working in the field of human rights.
- Undertake such other functions as it may consider necessary for the promotion of human rights.
FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRY
18, Jun 2019
Context:
- World Food India 2019 will be the biggest gathering of all global and domestic stakeholders in Food Processing Sector.
World Food India:
- The government initiated biennial event- World Food India to promote food processing sector at global level.
- WFI 2019 will be held from 1-4th November 2019 in New Delhi and will position India as Food Processing Destination of the World.
- The tagline of the event will be “Forging Partnerships for Growth”.
Why there is need to focus on Food Processing Industry:
- India produces more fruits & vegetables in comparison to food grains. There is huge loss of Fruits and Vegetable due to perishable nature of it.
- As per APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority), India loses Rs. 13,000 to 15,000 Crore every year on waste of fruits and vegetables.
- Non availibity of Storage facility is issue, only 2% of the perishable produce has that Facility.
Scope for Food Processing Industry:
- Due to Increase in Standard living of people– there is demand for quality food , Packed food.
- Packaging increases shelf life of food.
- farmers also shifting production towards horticultural crops to cash in on growing demand of packaged food.
- food, it can be customized to suit the nutritional requirements of groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, infants, young children and athletes.
- Food processing industry is sun rise industry.
- Indian Food Processing Industry has grown tremendously recording 11% growth rate, which is twice the pace of Global Industry.
Global Market:
- Global Food processing industry market valued around USD 3.4 trillion.
- Only 6 percent of processed foods are traded across borders compared to 16 percent of major bulk agricultural commodities.
- There is room for India to capture this space in international market.
Issues in Food Processing Industry:
- Productivity of Food product is quite low compared to international standard. Supply Chain Issue – Backward and Forward Linkage Gap.
- Certification infrastructure gap.
Government Initiative:
- The Scheme of Mega Food Park aims at providing a mechanism to link agricultural production to the market by bringing together farmers, processors and retailers so as to ensure maximizing value addition, minimizing wastage, increasing farmers income and creating employment opportunities particularly in rural sector.
BHARATMALA PROJECT
17, Jun 2019
Why in News?
- Bharatmala is a name given to road and highways project of Government of India.
Highlights:
- The total investment for the Bharatmala plan is estimated at Rs10 trillion, which is the largest ever outlay for a government road construction scheme.
- Bharat Mala will provide easier access to border areas for armed forces and boost trade via the land route.
- Roads will be built along borders with Bhutan and Nepal.
- Road connectivity to small industries will be ensured and manufacturing centres will be connected with national highways.
- The project will be executed through Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways (MoRTH), NHAI, National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and State Public Works Department (PWDs). Bharatmala is the largest highways project after the National Highways Development Programme.
KIMBERLEY PROCESS
17, Jun 2019
Why in News?
Intersessional meeting of the Kimberley Process (KP) is being hosted by India in Mumbai.
Highlights:
- India is currently the Chair of Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) since 1st January 2018. It was handed Chairmanship by the European Union during KPCS Plenary 2018, which was held in Brussels, Belgium.
- India is founding member of KPCS.
Kimberley Process:
- The Kimberley Process is an international certification scheme that regulates trade in rough diamonds. It aims to prevent the flow of conflict diamonds, while helping to protect legitimate trade in rough diamonds.
- The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) outlines the rules that govern the trade in rough diamonds.
- The KP is not, strictly speaking, an international organisation: it has no permanent offices or permanent staff. It relies on the contributions – under the principle of ‘burden-sharing’ of participants, supported by industry and civil society observers.
- Neither can the KP be considered as an international agreement from a legal perspective, as it is implemented through the national legislations of its participants.
Kimberley Process Certification Scheme:
- The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) imposes extensive requirements on its members to enable them to certify shipments of rough diamonds as ‘conflict-free’ and prevent conflict diamonds from entering the legitimate trade.
- Under the terms of the KPCS, participating states must put in place national legislation and institutions; export, import and internal controls; and also commit to transparency and the exchange of statistical data.
- Participants can only legally trade with other participants who have also met the minimum requirements of the scheme, and international shipments of rough diamonds must be accompanied by a KP certificate guaranteeing that they are conflict-free.
BIMAL JALAN COMMITTEE ON THE QUANTUM OF RESERVES
17, Jun 2019
Constituted on 26 December 2018, to decide upon the appropriate level of reserves the regulator should hold. This committee has been appointed in the backdrop of a deadlock between the RBI and the Government. The government feels that RBI’s reserves exceeded its limits and that these could be used for productive purposes such as recapitalizing public sector banks.
What are RBI Reserves?
RBI holds reserves in currency and gold inorder to:
- Absorb potential losses that it may incur while holding foreign
- Shield the economy from monetary and financial
- Carry monetary burden during unstable
- Perform price and exchange
- Perform its functions independently of the government
- RBI holds 25.6 % of its assets as reserves while the global median is 16%. Under Section 47 of RBI Act, RBI transfers the excess funds to the Government after accounting for contingency reserves.
NATIONAL SMALL SAVINGS FUND
17, Jun 2019
It has been established under Public Account of India since 1st April 1999. It Comprises of
- Postal Deposits
- Savings Certificates and Kissan Vikas Patra
- Social Security Schemes such as PPF and Senior Citizens Savings
Although it reflects a borrowing mechanism, its transactions are not included in the fiscal deficit of the government. The balance in the fund is invested in Central and State Government securities.
INDIAN ECONOMY
17, Jun 2019
- What are Debt Instruments?
- They are either paper or electronic obligations that allows the issuing party to raise funds by promising to repay the lender in the terms of the contract.
- E.g. Bonds, debentures, certificates etc.
Dwindling automobile sales market in India Since Nov 2018:
- The major reason for such a downfall in the market is the reduction in the private consumption expenditure.
What is Private Consumption Expenditure?
- It is defined as the value of the consumption goods and services acquired and consumed by households.
- It is influenced by the following factors: Inflation or price rise
- Increase in taxes which may reduce personal savings. Unemployment
G 20 NATIONS
17, Jun 2019
- It is an international grouping that consists of central bank governors and government representatives of 19 countries and the EU.
- The nations consist of 90% of world’s GDP, 80% of world trade and 2/3rd of world’s population.
- It is an initiative of the World Bank, IMF and the WTO.
- The G20 summit this is scheduled to take place in Osaka in Japan on June 28-29. Ahead of this, the G20 Environmental Ministers met near Karuizawa, Japan.
Outcome:
- Adopt a new implementation framework for actions to tackle the issue of marine plastic waste on a global scale.
- It had earlier adopted G20 action plan on marine litter in 2017 at Hamburg Summit.
- It is to follow a life cycle approach to prevent and reduce plastic waste litter discharge into oceans. The countries will share best practices, promote innovation, and boost scientific research and analytical methodologies.
- Japan will host the first meeting under the framework during the G20 Resource Efficiency Dialogue.
PUBLIC PROCUREMENT LEGISLATION
17, Jun 2019
Context:
- Supreme Court expressed its growing concern over the award of tenders being challenged in writ proceedings almost as a matter of routine.
Why:
- Need the Central government must pass legislation on Public Procurement.
- Nearly, 30% of GDP is contributed by this public procurement which has a fiscal significance in public policy.
Previous bills:
- United Progressive Alliance introduced the Public Procurement Bill in the Lok Sabha in 2012, The National Democratic Alliance, in 2015, revamped the provisions of the earlier Bill to come up with the Public Procurement Bill, 2015
- Both the bill were not passed in parliament.
Constitutional Provision:
- There is absence of Any Constitutional Provision regarding such Public procurement. Reason- Article 282 gives financial autonomy in public spending for executive.
State take on Public procurement:
- State public procurement is regulated by a State Act only in five states Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh and Assam.
- There is absence of grievance redress mechanisms in above states.
Judiciary Stand:
- Courts have imposed such stringent Self-Imposed Restrictions in the area of judicial review regarding tendered and power to interfere.
Conclusion:
- Absence of Legislation would only encourage the growth of other negative aspects of public procurement.
- In such a depressing legal scenario, it is no surprise that public procurement tender awards are often challenged in constitutional courts.
- Passing a roboust legislation in Public procurement will Reduce Litigations in Court Regarding Procurement Help Fiscal Consolidation
- Accountability in procurement. Boost MSME further.
INDRAYANI RIVER
17, Jun 2019
- UPSC Questions Related to rivers -cultural place associated, historic place associated, tributaries, National parks, wild Sanctuary, Biosphere.
- UPSC Question on Rivers- Chandrabhaga 2019, Cauvery 2019, Yammuna 2016, Bhramaputra 2017,
Context:
- Incident in which around 4,000 fishes died in Indrayani River, Maharashtra.
About:
- Indrayani river is one of the important place where holy Pandarpur with cultural significance is located. Indrayani river joins Bhima River, which is tributary of Krishna River
Bhima River:
- Bhima River originates in Bhimashankar hills near Karjat in Maharashtra Holy City of Pandharpur is on the bank of Bhima River
- Bhimashankar is one of the twelve esteemed Jyotirlinga shrines
Krishna River:
- It is the fourth largest river in India after the Ganga, Godavari and the Narmada Krishna River rises at Mahabaleswar in district Satara
- It flows through Maharastra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka.
- Home to Ancient Satavahana and Ikshvaku Dynasty kings. Vijayawada is the largest city
Narmada:
- Krishna River rises at Mahabaleswar in district Satara
- It flows through Maharastra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka.
- Home to ancient Satavahana and Ikshvaku Dynasty kings. Vijayawada is the largest city
Places Associated with Indrayani River:
- Bhaja & Kanheri Caves
- Rock cut architecture in India
- Bhaja Caves located at the Valley of Indrayani River, near Lonavala Approximately 2,200 years ago, circa 200 BC
- Chaitya and Viharas
LEADER OF OPPOSITION
17, Jun 2019
Context:
- Like 2014 leader of opposition no political party is qualifying that mark of 55 MPs in Lok Sabha to get Leader of opposition.
- UPSC Question Prelims – Leader of Opposition in 2018
About:
- Lop is leader of largest non-government party.
- Source of Lop- ‘the salary and allowances of leaders of opposition in Parliament Act, 1977’ which only says that the largest opposition party should get the post securing 10%(at least a strength equal to the quorum) of seats.
- This act for LoP is extended to both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
- The Leaders and Chief Whips of Recognised Parties and Groups in Parliament (Facilities) Act, 1998 also refers to a recognised party in the Lok Sabha as a party that has not less than 55 members.
Constitutional Provision:
- There is no provision in the Constitution or even in the Lok Sabha Rules of Procedure in regard to the recognition of the LoP.
- Since there is no constitutional provision, the 1977 law does not provide for the requirement of 55 members as an essential pre requisite. As it all depends on the Speaker’s directions and discretion.
Importance of LoP:
- To Democracy to survive there is need of effective and strong opposition.
- It is said that if no Opposition exists, one may have to be created. Also, if there is no Opposition outside, there is every danger that it may grow within.
History:
- First officially recognized LoP was after breakup of congress in 1969, The Leader of INC(O), Ram Subhag Singh, became the first LoP in Lok sabha.
Hint for Way Ahead:
The simple way out is to substitute ‘pre -poll alliance’ for ‘party’ or say ‘party or pre- poll alliance’. and get that number of 55 MPs.
NEW SPECIES IN EASTERN HIMALAYA- BALSAMS OR JEWELWEEDS.
16, Jun 2019
- Context-23 new species from the eastern Himalayas of a group of plants commonly known as Balsams or jewelweeds
- UPSC mainly asks question regarding new species of plant, animal found in Western Ghats, Himalayas, North east, Andaman and Nicobar.
- UPSC prelims questions- Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia)-2019
- There are about 230 species of Balsams found in India and majority of them are found in the eastern Himalayas and Western Ghats. These species need proper conservation initiatives as they are highly vulnerable, especially to climate change.
- They are mostly found in stream Margins, Moist Roadsides, Near Waterfalls and Wet Forests.
LABOUR ISSUES
16, Jun 2019
- Indian Staffing Federation has asked the government to completely scrap the archaic labor laws.
- ISF is an apex body of staffing or the outsourcing industry. It is yet to be recognized by the government. India has 463 million workforces, of which 94% are in informal sector employed with small and micro firms.
- Such enterprises tries to remain small since they enjoy tax benefits in India as they employ less than 20 people. Therefore, such a ceiling on the number of employees has restricted the growth of the industries as well as the growth of employment in the country.
- Once a company employs more than 20 labourers it is subjected to unrealistic labour laws and compliances. Labour laws in India is framed by both the Central government and the State government as it comes under the Concurrent list of the constitution.
- This has created lot of ambiguity in laws and confusion in its implementation. For example, existing labour laws define worker and wage in 17 different ways.
- This has made India a hostile place for investments.
- The ISF recommends new labour laws that suits the modern times and needs of an emerging economy.
INTERNATIONAL ECONOMY
16, Jun 2019
- India imposed tariffs on 29 goods from the U.S from June 16. This is a retaliatory measure taken by India against the U.S imposing tariffs on steel and aluminium form 2018.
- This is also a part of the ongoing tussle between the nations with regard to the protectionist tendencies in the global economy.
- 301 Probe: It is a law in the U.S that allows the President to impose tariffs and other restrictions on a country to protect U.S companies from unfair trade practices by other countries.
- U.S has imposed 301 probe on China in 2017, and is likely to impose the same on India Very soon
CHINA – PHILLIPINES CONFLICT IN S. CHINA SEA
16, Jun 2019
Issue:
- South China Sea is a significant area in the Pacific Ocean.
- It is the major trade route connecting South East Asia to the Pacific Ocean, China and Japan.
- China has been claiming the sovereignty over the South China Sea. This has led to the tensions among the nations surrounding the South China Sea.
- China has been aggressively building artificial island in the area to further their claims in the region and also to establish their military and naval bases in the region. This act has been widely condemned by the
- Western world and also by India.
- India’s stand: The dispute over the Sea should be resolved through International laws and consensus. Especially the laws that govern the sea under the UNCLOS.
- On 15th June a Chinese vessel hit a Phillipino fishing boat which escalated the ongoing tensions.
- It happened near Reed Bank over which Phillipines claims sovereignity as it falls within 200 nautical miles exclusive economic zone of the country. However, Beijing also claims the ownership of Reed bank.
Exclusive Economic Zone:
- It is a law formulated under the UNCLOS or the United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea. It is an area beyond and adjacent to the territorial area; maximum 200 nautical miles from the baselines.
- -Within the EEZ, the coastal state has the sovereignity over the natural resources.
Within an EEZ a state is allowed to do the following:
- Create artificial islands. Marine scientific research.
- Protection and preservation of Marine Environment.
IRAN – US NUCLEAR ISSUE
16, Jun 2019
Context:
- U.S withdrawn from JCPOA after Donald Trump had become the President of the country.
What is JCPOA?
- Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action is an agreement reached between Iran and P5+1 nation on the issue of nuclear enrichment process happening in Iran.
- It was adopted on July 14, 2015 and later endorsed by the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231 on July 20, 2015.
Who are the Members?
- Iran and (P5= U.S, Britain, Italy, China, Russia) + Germany
Who is the Implementing Agency?
- Iran’s compliance with the nuclear related provisions will be verified by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
- Core Issue: The Western nations suspect Iran is enriching uranium to the levels required to make nuclear bombs. Such an action by Iran could trigger an all-out war in the Gulf region as Iran is a hostile nation to most of the Sunni dominated Gulf region and the Western countries.
- Arak Reactor: JCPOA demands Iran to shut down the Arak nuclear reactor. Replace the core of the Arak reactor to reduce the weapons grade plutonium output.
- Fordow: For 15 years no introduction of Uranium to this facility. However, after the U.S withdrawal from the deal, Iran has decided to scale back compliance with a nuclear deal unless the signatories to the JCPOA show positive response.
- CAATSA: Countering America’s Adversaries through Sanctions Act. This law has used by the U. S government to impose sanctions on Iran, Russia and N.Korea.
ESSENTIAL SERVICES MAINTENANCE ACT (ESMA)
16, Jun 2019
Context:
- Doctors Strike in West Bengal regarding assault on doctors by public. Esma is Central law.
- ESMA enables the Government to ban strikes and demand conciliation or arbitration in certain “essential” industries.
- Act also allows states to choose the essential services on which to enforce Esma.
- Its implementation is entirely on discretion of State Government.
Provisions of Act:
- Esma gives police the right to arrest, without a warrant, anybody violating the Act’s provisions. “Any person who commences a strike…or otherwise takes part in… any such strike shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to two hundred rupees, or with both,” the Act reads.
- “Any person who instigates…a strike which is illegal under this Act shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both.”
Mains Perspective:
- Provisions that need to be brought to assure that there is no disruption in vital services like Health. Reasons for recent attacks on doctors by public across the country and what are solution to avoid the same?
Hints;
- Poor Doctor patient ratio,
- Infrastructural bottle necks of health sector. Accessibility of quality health care for poor.
- Right to strike for people in essential service such as health sector?
BIO TECHNOLOGY
13, Jun 2019
7.1 INTRODUCTION
- It involves development of certain special life forms & systems that help in obtaining maximum benefits not only for mankind but also for other living organisms while obtaining in optimum.
- Genetic Engineering or recombined DNA technology is considered a tool of biotechnology in whichby deliberate human manipulation a foreign but desirable gene is inserted into DNA of an unrelated organism resulting in formation of a DNA molecule that has got genetic material from two or more unrelated sources.Such a DNA is called Recombinant DNA.Biotechnology has got wide ranging
a. Applications
- In the field of agriculture, biotechnology has been used to develop genetically modified organisms or transgenic
organisms that are able to produce in less time. Such organisms would ensure food security in food source country.
- Biotechnology has widest application in the field of health.It can be used in making safe cost effective vaccines e.g.,Hepatitis
- It can be used in making important proteins such as Insulin, Thyrotropin, Somatropin, Interferon that can be of great help in treating various childhood hormonal disorder e.g.
- It can also be used in making bio- diagnostic kits which is used to detect various diseases before they become
- It can be used in the preparation of scarce enzymes such as urokinase. This enzyme helps in dissolution of blood
- In the field of Energy and Environment, Genetically Modified Bacteria can be used to enhance oil exploration by a technique called Microbial enhanced oil Recovery(MEOR) in which bacteria acts as a surface tension reducing agent (surfactants) helping in increasing oil extraction from 30% to 60%.
- GMB can also be used to transform non biodegradable wastes such as plastics, synthetic, pesticides etc
- In the field of Industry, Biotech can also be used to prepare alcohol, ethanol, acids such as lactic acid, tartaric acid, acetic acid various amino acids that are used for pharmaceutical purposes. This technology can also be used for producing vitamins, antibiotics & steroids on a massive
b. Demerits
- It can be misused to form biological weapons of mass destruction.
- The inserted gene segment may express to form a harmful protein that may result in various diseases
- Biotech holds a lightly possibility of bringing extinct organisms each to life
- Scientists at present stage of R & D may likely commit a mistake whose consequence can’t be foretold.
- Biotech if misused may result in depletion of biodiversity e.g.At present biotechnological research is focused in developing 29 plant varieties that are able to cater to
90 % almost of the food requirement of man kind. If such discriminate biotech research effects continue they would result in other plant loss species along with dependent plant species, as on every plant species there are
about 30 – 40 dependent animal species such efforts would interfere in the natural process of selection and evolution of biodiversity.
c. Steps taken by Government of India:
- A department of Biotechnology was established in 1986 working under ministry of Science & Technology, Department of Biotechnology is responsible for promoting, planning and coordinating various biotechnological projects taken up by GOI which are as follows:
- Development of safe and cost effective vaccines & holding immunization camps especially for weaker and more susceptible sections of society.
- Increase oil seed production by using tissue culture technique in plants. E.g. coconut.
- Developing high yielding varieties of plants and animals.
- Cattle herd improvement by Embryo Transmit Technique(ETT).
- Developing improved & safe fertility controlled
Institutes involved in this process are
- IARI – Indian Agricultural Research
- NTN – National Institute of Nutrition (Hyderabad)
- IISc – Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
- Control Drug Research Institute (Lucknow)
- Centre for cellular & molecular biology Hyderabad
- Institute of microbial technology, Chandigarh
- International centre for genetic engineering and biotechnology established by UN Industrial Development organisation(UNIDO) to provide International Research links in biotechnology.
7.2 CLONING
- It is a process of asexual reproduction in which the offspring or the progeny produced is an exact genetic replica of the single present donor which has donated his/her genetic material by way of donating nucleus present in any of the body’s somatic or non – reproductive cell.In contrast sexual reproduction involves inheritance of genetic material from both the parents equally.JBS Haldane(America) in 1963 theorized cloning stated that every cell has the necessary technical knowhow in the form of genetic material to raise entire individual. One individual is able to create a new individual by obtaining the genetic material form any of the body’s livingcell. Male donor results in formation of a male clone whereas female donor provides female clone. Cloning also exists naturally for example, Bacteria divides asexually in bacterial clones. Monozygotic twins are clones to each other.Cloning in plants is called tissue culture technique by which large number- of disease free saplings can be produced in no time specially in those plant where the process of seed germination of e.g., sandalwood and rubber, growth and development is slow.E.g. Bamboo tissue culture is of great help in commercially valuable crops such as sugarcane, turmeric plantation crops, species etc. These crops can be micropropagated fast and desirable tree varieties can be produced rapidly increasing the profits of the farmers.
7.2.1 Animal Cloning
- Animal cloning experiment succeeded when in Feb , 1997 a team of scientists led by Professor. Ian Wilmut from Roslin Institute, Edinburg, Scotland, UK successfully cloned 1st mammal sheep Dolly. This success led to cloning of other animals since then large no of animals have been cloned E.g. Mice, Cow, Goat, pig, Rabbit, cat, mule, horse and a wild puppy known as snuppy in Seoul National university South Korea. Animal cloning experiments though are one step forward, the cloned animals have not been able to complete their life span as they have fallen prey to various genetic disease.E.g. Dolly died of arthritis and degenerative lung disease.Still animal cloning experiments can be of great helps in preserving rare species.
7.2.2 Human Cloning
- Cloning in human beings is practised by a technique known as somatic cell nuclear transfer in which a deployed nucleus containing 46 chromosomes from any of the body cells of the donar is transferred to e – nucleated egg. The manipulated egg is stimulated by electrical shocks of various chemicals to start dividing within a week.This single cell becomes a ball of 200 – 300 unspecialised cell. This stage is called as Blastocyst. Human cloning is of two types on the basis of the fate Blastocyst:
- Reproductive human cloning
- Therapeutic human cloning
7.2.2.1 Reproductive human cloning
- If blastocyst is implanted in the uterus of either surrogate or original mother, it is thought that probably it would developinto a new individual.But there has been no conclusive proof when so many cloned animals are dying of genetic diseases. Reproductive human cloning is still believed to be a for fetched
7.2.2.2 Therapeutic human cloning
- It involves use of initial unspecialised blastocyst cell to develop into genetically similar body pacts to replace the damaged or torn out body organs.Therefore therapeutic cloning provides effective genetically similarreplacement material. It is of great help in providing therapy in various degenerative
7.2.3 Uses of cloning:
- Cloning can help us understand the process of ageing and once understoodit can be effectively postponed or
- It will help us understandwhy certain adult body cells reversed to original embryonic condition of rapid division resulting in formation of cancers
- Therapeutic cloning is of greatest help in treating various degenerative diseases e.g. diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, Alzhemier, spinal cord injuries , burns etc
- Therapeutic cloning can also help in regenerating some of those body parts that do not effectively regenerate if damaged
e.g. neuron, heart muscle cells
- Reproductive human cloning can also be considered in those childless couples who are suffering from incurable infertility (unable to produce viable gametes)
7.2.4 Ban on Cloning and the ethical issues involved:
- Reproductive human cloning experiments are being opposed on various ethical & environmental grounds
- WHO has denounced R. H. C experiments considering them ethically unacceptable for the reason that they undermine society’s respect for human life.Such experiments destroy the known social structures and institutions like marriages, family etc.They would likely to bring in fundamental changes in the society as people may opt to produce their clones to raise their families without entering wed lock.Moreover family identities and relationships may get blurred. So as the offspring produced would be considered a sibling or a progeny.
- Increased cloning tendency would result in loss of genetic diversity in human It may interfere with natural process of selection affecting evolution of human beings as a species.
- The prolifer group led by Pope opposes human cloning on the ground that it is an unnatural, unnecessary man’s attempt to play the role of God.These experiments would result in large scale creation and destruction of human embryos which is similar to using human life as an experimental subject which is highly unethical.
- Human cloning experiments may be misused to raise clone armies that would result in subjugation of human race which were this clones would be consider slaves having no right what so ever
- Scientist at present stage of R& D are likely commit to mistakes that may result in serious mutationswhose consequences cannot be predicated
- This technology also misused by private individuals & organisation for commercial purposes ignoring the general interests of the society
Legal Ban
- In 1998, 19 European countries signed an agreement under which they have agreed to banhuman cloning experiments for reproductive purposes for next
20 years.USA has also banned such experiments for 10 years. Depth of Biotech in India has also banned human reproductive experiments
- In October 2004 United Nations adopted a non binding declaration that prohibited all attempts to create human life through cloning or any research achieving this aim. Therefore indirectly UNs has allowed member nations to continue with therapeutic cloning. In this regard UK became the 1st country to provide legal authorisation from Government’s Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority to perform therapeutic cloning using human embryo to treat serious diseases. In May 2005, New Castle University which was allotted the 1st license successfully claimed to produce an early stage human embryo by nuclear transfer technique and that will be used for treating diabetes and license was given to Ian Wilmut for conducting research by using human embryo in treating motorneuron
7.3 STEM CELLS
- Stem cells are undifferentiated primitive blank cells that have not yet grown into any recognisable part of the human body.They have the ability to be coaxed to develop into any if the 220 different types of specialised cells of the body.So stem cells are the very early cell capable of transforming into any type of cells and tissues in the body
7.3.1 Types of Stem cells
- Embryonic Stem Cells
- These are far more advantageous they are highly prolific and can develop into millions of cells. Therefore they are considered totipotent in
- These cells can specialise into any type of body cells. Therefore they are pluripotent in nature but their use results in violation of ethical
7.3.1.2 Adult or Somatic stem cells
- These are some of the already specialised body cells that still
contain some of the ability to specialise differently.These cells are rare and difficult to be identified and isolated and their ability is divide and specialise is for more restricted.
E.g, Bone marrow cells, umbilical cord blood
- Wharton’s Jelly,a cushioning substance found in umbilical cord, is believed to be a rich source of obtaining stem cells non-invasively and non- Use of adult stem cells does not violate any ethical issue. Hybrid stem cells are those adult or somatic cells that can be reprogrammed to become pluripotent cells. In this adult somatic cells genetic expression is reprogrammed so that it starts functioning as embryonic cells.
- Stem cell colony/line is a self replenish able colony of embryonic stem cells from which any amount of stem cellscan be harvested without apparent limit.however it is extremely difficult to establish such a colony
as stem cell colony is highly sensitive to even slightest fluctuations in nutrient availability and environment.So far more them 78 colonies have been established by a hand full of countries, India being one of them and the 2 centres are
- Reliance life science centre, Mumbai
- National centre for Biological sciences Bangalore
7.3.1.3 Uses of Stem Cell
- Stem cell have opened a new branch of medicine known as regenerative medicine as they can be induced to develop into specific body tissues replacing the damaged ones. They can be used in Alzheimer, diabetics, Parkinsonism, burns, spinal cord injuries
- They can also be induced to develop into blood cells so that any amount the blood can be created for some blood fusionin various genetic diseases as visible cell anaemia,
- Stem cells also help in development cheap and effective drugs within a short period of time as they can be made to grow into specific body tissues on which drugs can be tested without violating animal rights as well. They can be used to study the process of embryonic development and therefore this understanding would minimise the occurrence of congenital malformations.
7.3.1.4 Ethical question involved in use of stem cells
- There is no ethical question, however, the Prolifer group led by the Pope opposes the Stem cell research on ethical grounds. It considers life to start from the very 1st day of conception and therefore it is highly unethical to use living human embryos as experimental
- This research would also result in large scale construction and destruction of human embryo On the other hand some researchers maintain that within first 14 days embryo can’t be considered a living human being as the Stem cell has not yet developed into identifiable body organs. They also say to treat infertility; multiple embryos are created for the process for Invitro fertilisations (IVF) to treat infertility. These leftover embryos can be put to research for treating various degenerative human ailments.
- Other countries involved in Stem cell research are Australia, Japan, Singapore, Israel, Sweden, U.K, South Korea and
7.4 HUMAN GENOME PROJECT
- It was one of the most innovative the largest biological project ever launched as a consortium of scientists from 18 different countries. It was launched in 1990 its succeeded including 24 different human chromosomes by June 2 Human Genome refers to complete set of genetic instructions in the form of nitrogenous base pair that constitute DNA in every cell of the human body.
- This DNA is present in the form of tightly coiled thread like structure known as chromosome. Human Genome Project succeeded in decoding 1st the 22ndchromosome which is the smallest chromosome followed by 21st and 20th and so
7.4.1 Benefits of Human Genomics
- Human Genome is of great value in the field of molecular medicine as it helps in improving diagnosis of diseases and identifying India’s genetic predisposition to a particular disease. Therefore genetic diseases can be permanently cured by instituting gene therapy. Tailor made drugs can be made to suit individual’s requirement and minimise the adverse
- In the field of human evolutions Human Genome can help in understanding the pattern of human evolution that has taken place over thousands of year. Once understood it would help in predicting the future course of evolution.
- In the field of DNA forensic, genetic Information can help in identifying the war victims specially dead soldiers whose bodies have been mutilated beyond recognition.
- It can also be used in settling paternity disputes in case of illegal exchange of newborn
- Criminals identity can be pin- pointedly established on the basis of the body samples left behind by him/her in the form of hair, nail, skin or body fluids at the scene of the crime and this would help in strengthening the criminal justice
- This information can also help in minimising organ transplant rejection reaction as organs can be cross matched in geneticsimilarity before transplantation.
- On the field of plant and animal genomics (plants and animals such as rice, mice chimpanzee and chicken) more disease and drought resistant, high yielding stronger varieties of crop and livestock can be produced. The food obtained from such crop varieties will be safer to be consumed as such plants would require less amount of pesticides and fertilizer
7.4.2 Potential dangers:
- Genetic information can be misused by parents who can go for the birth of designer babies where the parents would determine which of their physical factors and personality features their children shall possess. This may seriously restrict human gene pool and will interfere with the natural process of selection resulting in loss of diversity among human population knowing of so called bad genes may effect evolution of human beings as a species.
- The genetic privacy of an individual may be violated and based upon the genetic information various life and health insurance schemes would not be sold. Moreover, career recruitment and promotional opportunities would also be denied to so called genetically weaker sections of the society. This may have serious social consequences leading to lack of social
- This information can also be misused for producing biological weapons of mass destruction specially targeted against genetically weaker sections or a particular race susceptible to particular disease leading to social
- It may also increase the gap between the rich and the poor as the lengths arousing out of such information will benefit mostly the richer sections of the
7.4.3 Measures to prevent the misuse of human genomics:
- The international bio ethics committee constituted by UNESCO defeatedthe Universal declaration on human genome and human This declaration was adopted by UNESCO and later on also by UN general assembly. However this is not legally binding on the members of UNO but it has succeeded in making a distinction between what is possible and what is acceptable use of human genetic information. It represents a moral responsibility on the parts of the member nations to respect right to genetic privacy of Individuals.
7.5 GENE THERAPY
- It is the most revolutionary method of treatment of genetic disorders e.g., diabetics, Haemophilia, Cancers etc. Hereditary diseases occur when the key genes are flawed or missing. The gene therapy aims to either modify or replace the key genes. The technique of Gene therapy involves stripping a harmless virus(Retrovirus) of some of its genes, replacing them in correct version of defective gene that causes the diseases. The manipulated virus (retrovirus) is then introduced into the body to infect the target tissues. The advantage of using retrovirus is that it is able to break down into its constituents helping in easy incorporation of replaced genes with the genetic material of the target tissue. In Dec 1999, a team of doctors from UK and France successfully carried out world’s 1st gene therapy cure against Severe Combined Immuno Deficiency (SCID) diseases which develop therefore of a defective gene on 20th chromosome. This gene is responsible for formation of special type of white blood cell (WBC) known as T lymphocyte.
7.5.1 Other uses:
- It could also be used as a drug delivery system. A gene that manufactures a useful product can be insected into the DNA of
the patient’s cell where the product can be used by the patient’s body. E.g., During blood vessel surgery a gene that make santi-clotting factor could be inserted into the DNA of the cells of the blood vessels to prevent formation of dangerous blood clots.
- It holds a likely possibility in making body cell resistance to HIV
7.6 DNA VACCINE
- It is a third generation vaccine in the process of Unlike conventional vaccines in which either the microbial agent in attenuated form e.g., Oral Polio vaccine or the vaccines in which a harmful protein also called as microbial antigen prepared by recombinant DNA technology e.g., Hepatise B vaccine is inoculated. In DNA vaccines the DNA or the genetic blueprint of microbial antigen that would initiate immunogenic response in body by synthesizing this harmful protein is inoculated. DNA vaccine holds a
likely possibility for developing effective vaccines even against disease such as Malaria, T. B, and HIV AIDS that have until now defied the ambit of vaccination.
7.7 INTERFERONS
Interferons are the proteins that function as powerful antiviral agents. They are synthesized by vertebrates in response to viral infections. They are called so as they interfere with the ability of the virus to replicate fast.One type of interferon can be effective against different type of viruses. But animal interferons can’t be used in human beings. Biotechnology holds a likely promise to develop human interferon’s even outside human body.
7.8 BIOLOGICAL WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION
- Biological weapons include weaponised form of microscopic living agents in the form of highly toxic or pathogenic strains of bacteria, viruses, fungi and their poisonous products known as toxins. These agents are used in biological warfare to inflict tremendous causalities not only
to mankind but also disturb the delicate ecological balance by killing plants and animals. Thereby leading to a grave medical poll and social crisis of unparalleled intensity.
- Biological weapons are more popular than conventional warfare systems as they being live agents can be acquired easily and cheaply from either environment or repositories without much logistic support and they are also called as poor man’s atom bomb. Moreover, these agents are used in an invisible aerosol or droplet form, they replicate fast on dissemination. Moreover, their use comes to light only after a brief incubation period, which is required for disease to get manifested this time is sufficient enough for their perpetrators to escape form the place of their
7.9 LIMITATIONS
- These weapons as they are living agents need special environmental conditions to survive e.g. specific temperature, pressure, sunlight etc. Their use requires strategic planning and meticulous execution.
- Some of the countries that are believed to have secret clandestine stock piles of such weapons are Russia, USA , China, Libya, North and south Korea, Israel, Taiwan, Syria etc. Eg of these weapons are
- Plague causing bacteria
- Anthrax causing bacteria known as Bacillus anthracis. It is a spore forming bacteria. It remains encapsulated and remains stable even in difficult situations and can be easily circulated in powder form. These bacteria can be either inhaled, indigested or can come in contact with cut skin. Therefore may result in causing three forms of anthrax
- Inhalational anthrax,
- Gastro intestinal anthrax
- Cutaneous anthrax.
- Inhalation is most dangerous and most common. It results in flu like symptoms that include generalised body ache, fever, cold, respiratory difficulty and may cause Pneumonia the condition may cause death. Anthrax is curable if treated adequately and timely by antibiotics.
- It is also seen is Cattle, Sheep, Goat, Camel. It can be treated effectively by antibiotics if detected
Yersinia Pestis:
- It is a plaque causing bacteria which is transmitted by the bite of an agent known as rat flea. It results in a deadly disease which causes rapid death as plaque can be later on transmitted from man to man through
Variola virus:
- It causes Small pox. According to WHO this agent has been officially eradicated but is readily available with USA and Russia. Some important toxins
Botulinum toxin:
- Most potent biological weapon as it causes death by paralysing of respiratory muscles Sodium, Thiopental, Pancuronium, KCL]
Certain fungal toxins
- Aflatoxin, Tricothccene & mycotoxin
Poisonous Gases/ Chemical weapons
- Sulphur mustard, Sarin, soman, Tabun,
7.10 INDIA’S PREPAREDNESS
- A National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) is established under ministry of Home affairs
- DRDO and DRDE (Gwalior) they are involved in Research in areas of toxicology and
- A nuclear biological chemical warfare directorate has been established in services within interservice coordination communication to monitor, prevent and combat use of such weapons
- Protective clothing has been designed for troops
- Weapons of Mass Destruction (Prohibition of unlawful activates) act 2005 – to fulfil its obligations as per UNSC resolution no 1540 which makes it mandatory for all UN members to enact a law prohibiting trafficking in nuclear, chemical and biological weapons. The parliament of India passed above said law in May 2 This act prevents transfer of WMD and technology of their developments from India to other countries
7.11 DNA FINGERPRINTING / TYPING
- DFP is a genetic method of identifying and analysing special sequences of DNA by imaging. A British geneticist known as Alec Jeffery’s in 1984 gene this technique which is based on the principle that every individual has certain unique repeatable sequences of DNA known as mini satellites and by analysing and identifying the pattern of arrangement of these DNA basis one can identify the genetic stock of an individual.
[PAGE – Poly acramide gel electrophoresis ]
- Purification – Isolation of DNA from the sample obtained from the scene from of crime
- Cutting =( A DNA molecule is cut at specific locations using DNA knives known’s as Restriction endo nucleus enzymes
- Electric current – PAGE is subjecting cut DNA fragments to electric current for their separation
- Blotting (Single hand DNA fragmented)
- Autoradiography – It is the process of obtaining fingerprints or images of complementary pairing of nitrogenous bases in between DNA Strands in question and DNA probe of similar sequence.
Uses :
- DFP is used in settling paternity disputes, illegal exchange of newborns
- This techniques can supplement various crime investigating agencies by providing an irrefutable evidences help in police personnel lawyer and forensic scientists
- It can also help for diagnosing various genetic diseases, pedigree analysis course of history and identification of genetic
- In India this technique is improved by using novel probes developed by CCMB centre for cellular and Molecular biology, Hyderabad, a new autonomous centre has been developed for the use of DNA fingerprinting in diagnosis of various Centre for DNA fingerprinting and diagnostics (CDFD)
BIOTECHNOLOGY
- Mention the breakthrough made in NCL in the field of plant- genetics and explain its significance. (90/II/8f(C)/3)
- Give a brief account of major achievements in the realm of biotechnology in India. (250 words) (91/II/3b/40)
- What is tissue culture? (91/II/8c(C)/3)
- What is genetic conservation? Bring out the salient features of genetic conservation activity in India. (About 250 words) (93/II/3b/40)
- Describe how biotechnology is finding use in medicine. Give a few current (93/II/7b/20)
- What is DNA fingerprinting? Which research institution in India is working in this area? (94/II/7d/20)
- What is a gene? Where is it found? (94/II/8f(C)/3)
- What are transgenic organisms? What are they used for? (96/II/7d/20)
- What is tissue culture? (97/II/8e(C)/3)
- What is genetic engineering? Why is it getting increasingly important these days? (98/II/3b/40)
- Why are transgenic organisms important? (98/II/8a(C)/3)
- What is the Human Genome Project? Discuss briefly its importance. (99/II/7a/20)
- What are biosensors? Describe their uses. (99/II/7d/20)
- Where is Centre Cellular and Molecular Biology located? (99/II/10e(i)/1)
- How do identical twins differ from each other genetically? (99/II/10f/3)
- Discuss Human Genome. (00/I/11b/10)
- How are transgenic plants different from hybrid plants and what is their relevance in modern agriculture? (00/II/11a/15)
- What are stem cells? Why have they been in the news recently? Discuss. (01/II/10b/30)
- “Biotechnology boom may pave a golden path for India.” Discuss. (02/I/10b/30)
- What is Human Cloning? Is it dangerous or beneficial? Discuss. (02/II/11c/15)
- Discuss the elements of ‘frozen semen technology’. What are ‘embryo transfer’, ‘transgenic animals’, ‘DNA recombinant technique’? (03/II/11c/15)
- What is Biotechnology? Discuss the important applications of Biotechnology. (04/II/11b/15)
- What is the therapeutic cloning? Describe briefly the method and its potential applications. (05/II/11b/15)
- Write a note on ‘Bio-refinery versus Fossil fuels’. (06/II/11b/15)
- What are normal osmosis and reverse osmosis? Why has reverse osmosis become popular in India today? (06/II/11c/15)
- Short note on Genome. (03/13e/2)(07/I/13e/2)
- Explain the objectives and the current achievements of human genome project. (150 words) (07/II/11b/15)
- In what way ‘Medical Biotechnology’ and ‘Bioengineering’ are useful for technological development of India? (250 words) (08/II/10a/30)
- What do you understand by
‘Biosignatures’? (09/II/8a/15)
- Write about Green Fluorescence Protein (GFP) and its applications. (09/II/8b/15)
- Define ‘Bioinformatics’. How does it work? What are its major branches and applications? (09/II/8c/15)
- Explain: DNA Finger Printing and its utility. (09/II/9a/10)
- Write brief note in about 30 words: Biiometric ATMs. (09/II/10e/3)
- Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI) technology. (2011/I/9d/5)
TRAFFIC INDEX 2018
10, Jun 2019
Why in News?
- A recent study has ranked Mumbai as the most traffic-congested city in the world for the second straight year, and Delhi at fourth place.
Traffic Index 2018:
- The findings published are part of the Traffic Index 2018 published by TomTom, an Amsterdam-based company.
- It offers traffic solutions, uses location technology to collect traffic information, and has been publishing city rankings for eight years.
- The index factors for peak hours, accidents, inclement weather, construction work and all other factors likely to cause disruptions.
- The latest index ranks 403 cities across 56 countries, including 13 new cities.
Defining Congestion:
- For this study, congestion has been defined in terms of the additional time taken to reach a destination as opposed to when the road would have been clear of traffic.
- Mumbai’s 2018 congestion level of of 65%, therefore, means that the extra travel time is
65% more than an average trip would take during uncongested conditions. - For Delhi, by the same yardstick, the extra travel time is 58% more.
Around the world:
- Nearly 75% of the cities part of the 2018 index had increased or stable congestion levels between 2017 and 2018, with only 90 cities showing measurable decreases, states the report.
- Congestion in Jakarta, for example, decreased by 8 percentage points while that in Lima rose by the same number of points.
RAIN DEFICIT AND WATER STRESS
08, Jun 2019
Why in News:
- Reportedly, nearly 40% of the country is facing an acute paucity of pre-monsoon rain, causing severe water distress in scorching heat.
Background: / How is the rain deficit scenario?
- Though summer droughts are very common, the extent and intensity of aridity witnessed this year are rare.
- The rain deficit has been as high as 48% in the southern peninsula, especially Tamil Nadu and coastal Karnataka.
- It is nearly 30% in western India, notably Gujarat and large parts of Maharashtra, and 17% and 12% in the Central and north-east region respectively.
- Shortfalls of 70 to 80% have also been reported from some places.
- The overall countrywide average rainfall between March and May, 2019 remained 23% below normal.
What do monsoon forecasts suggest?
- The rain deficit conditions across the country are a matter of grave concern. But the redeeming factor is that the onset of the monsoon is round the corner.
- The rain during the 4-month monsoon season (June to September) is anticipated to be well spread out.
- It is also expected to be quantitatively normal or somewhat below normal.
- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast has suggested rainfall to be likely around 96% of the long-period average (LPA).
- On the other hand, private weather forecaster Skymet has put it at 91%.
What is the Concern Though?
- The problem is that both IMD and Skymet have forecast that the monsoon would be sluggish/slow to begin with.
- The reason cited for this is the existence of El Nino (warming up of the Pacific Ocean), which often impairs the monsoon performance.
- Also, IMD and Skymet differ on the progression of El Nino.
- The IMD expects El Nino conditions to turn neutral in the second half of the rainy season. But Skymet reckons it to last the whole season, even if in a weaker form.
- So clearly, there is a possible delay in relief from the current water crisis in some areas.
What is a favourable factor yet?
- Of the three main facets of drought (meteorological, hydrological, agricultural), the present conditions conform chiefly to the meteorological drought (rainfall inadequacy).
- Only in some areas, aridity has accentuated to cause hydrological drought, reflected in exhaustion of the surface and groundwater resources.
- The overall hydrological profile of the country is still positive.
- The total water stock in 91 major reservoirs monitored by the Central Water Commission is
- around 14% above the last year’s corresponding level.
- It is 3% higher than the long-period average (May, 2019 data).
- Agricultural drought has, by and large, been averted as the rabi crops have mostly been harvested and the kharif ones are yet to be planted.
What is the Way Forward?
- An enduring solution to the recurring water crisis largely lies in drought-proofing the vulnerable areas.
- In-situ conservation of rainwater should be a key priority in this regard.
- The need is to construct rainwater-harvesting structures at the field, village and watershed levels.
- Either digging ponds or putting up check dams at suitable sites on the natural water drainage routes should be taken up.
- This is a time-tested water management practice that has helped people survive even in the chronically arid areas.
- Piecemeal measures as isolated water conservation works under the rural employment programmes can, at best, offer only limited gains.
- So what is needed is a broad-based planning, keeping in view the whole watershed, transgressing village, district or even state boundaries.
SOUTH ASIA IS TOP PRIORITY: JAISHANKAR
08, Jun 2019
Why in News:
- Building connectivity in the South Asian region and coordinating economic issues will be top priorities of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), said S. Jaishankar.
Background: / More in News
- Jaishankar is on a two-day tour to Thimphu on June 7-8 to meet with the King of Bhutan, Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, and Foreign Minister Tandi Dorji
- Speaking at the event organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Ananta Centre and Smadja and Smadja, S Jaishankar highlighted three trends being witnessed in the world which include
- Globalisation under stress especially in terms of market access and mobility of labour, Growth of nationalism and
- Global rebalancing.
On South Asia:
BIMSTEC
- Mr Jaishankar indicated that the government had chosen to invite leaders of BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) rather than leaders of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation), because there was a higher likelihood of making progress with BIMSTEC, as it doesn’t include Pakistan.
Regional Connectivity:
- He highlighted the importance of regional connectivity. South Asia is among the least inter-connected regions in the world, but efforts are being made to make the region more integrated.
- Mr Jaishankar emphasised the need for more regional exchanges, saying India needed to “incentivise cooperation in the neighbourhood” by being “generous” to smaller neighbours.
On Economy:
- Jaishankar also spoke on the need for more coordination between the MEA and economic ministries.
- The comments reflect the economic challenges the government faces immediately, given the United States decision to withdraw India’s ‘GSP’ preferential trade status, and the emerging costs of replacing Iranian oil after sanctions.
- He also said that a large part of India’s economy has been externalised and there is a need for India’s foreign policy and the diplomatic machinery to help Indian companies gain better access to overseas markets.
SUDAN CRISIS
08, Jun 2019
Why in News:
- Sudan is in the midst of a political crisis after security forces opened fire on pro-democracy protesters in the capital, Khartoum.
Background: / More in News:
- When Sudanese dictator Omar al-Bashir was toppled on April 11 after a months-long popular uprising, the generals had two options before them
- One was the Tunisian model in which the army allowed a smooth transition of power to a civilian government after Zine El Abidine Ben Ali was removed from power in 2011.
- The other was the Egyptian model in which the army, after losing power to a civilian ruler following Hosni Mubarak’s ouster as President in 2011, staged a coup in 2013 and reinstalled itself at the helm. Sudanese generals chose the Egyptian Model, setting the stage for a prolonged showdown. The protesters had demanded a transfer of power to a transitional civilian government, followed by free and fair elections. But the generals used the crisis to concentrate more powers in their own hands. Later military generals established a military council which took over governance, while angry protesters continued a sit-in in front of the Defence Ministry in Khartoum.
- As talks between pro-democracy activists and the military rulers collapsed, paramilitary groups unleashed deadly violence this week to break the sit-in, killing at least 100 people and injuring hundreds.
Global Response:
- The US condemned what it called a “brutal attack” and the UK said the military council bore “full responsibility”. The African Union (AU) has suspended Sudan from its membership until a civilian led transitional authority is established.
- However, The UN Security Council couldn’t even condemn the violence as China, backed by Russia, blocked the move. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which offered financial aid to the junta as soon as Mr. Bashir was removed from power, also support the generals.
Impact of Crackdown:
- After the crackdown, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the military ruler, has offered to hold elections in nine months, upturning an earlier plan of a two-year transition. But there is no immediate plan to transfer power to a civilian transitional government, a key demand of the protesters.
Conclusion:
- Military must resume talks with the protesters and facilitate a quick and orderly transition to civilian rule. The choice the generals make will determine the future of Sudan.
HOME MINISTRY WARNS NGOS
08, Jun 2019
Why in News:
- The Home Ministry has warned of taking penal action against NGOs which change office bearers without taking its approval.
Background: / More in News
- In a notification, the home ministry said incidents have come to light that some NGOs, having registered under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), have changed their office bearers without its approval and without updating this data on a real-time basis through the online application meant for a change of these details.
- All NGOs and associations registered under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), 2010, which makes them eligible to receive foreign funds and donations, have to submit an online application for addition, deletion and change of details about office- bearers and key functionaries within one month.
- The ministry told the NGOs to submit applications for addition/ deletion/change of details about office bearers/ key functionaries by July 7, failing which penal action will be initiated against them. Since 2014, the central government has started scrutiny of the activities of NGOs leading to the cancellation of their FCRA registration, which allows them to get foreign funding.
- There was a total of 23,176 FCRA registered NGOs in 2016-17, which has now come down to around 12,000.
Regulation of NGO under FCRA:
- The Home Ministry monitors foreign funds donated to NGOs and organisations through the FCRA. The FCRA was brought into force to regulate the flow of foreign funds to voluntary organisations with the objective of preventing any possible diversion of such funds to anti-national activities.
- However, there are many NGOs which are registered under FEMA and continue to disburse foreign funds to various associations. NGOs under FEMA is regulated by the Finance Ministry, there are many occasions when the Home Ministry failed to monitor the flow of funds effectively.
- International donors such as the Ford Foundation, the U.K.’s Department for International Development and Canada’s International Development Research Centre are registered under FEMA but not the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), 2010.
- Funds flowing to NGOs can be used for an anti-national activity such as economic security. Hence regulation of NGO receiving fund is necessary.
- NGO is used by vested interest to halt the developmental project in India as reported by the Intelligence Bureau. This was witnessed in kudankulam protest.
- Earlier, the Home Ministry wants the Finance Ministry to surrender its to monitor non- governmental organisations (NGOs) under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) for effective and better monitoring.
DRAFT NATIONAL EDUCATION POLICY MOOTS ALL-INDIA ENTRANCE TESTS FOR UG COURSES
08, Jun 2019
Why in News:
- Admission to undergraduate courses in all government-funded universities and colleges will soon be through all-India entrance tests, if the draft National Education Policy is approved.
Background: / More in News
- Private institutes will also be strongly encouraged to make use of the common admission tests, which will be available from 2020. Both aptitude and subject knowledge-based tests will be offered.
- According to draft policy,
- This seems to indicate that the NTA assessment will replace Class 12 marks as the criteria for admission to these government funded institutions.
- The NTA tests will aim to assess essential concepts, knowledge, and higher order skills from the national common curriculum as per the NCF in each subject, for the purpose of aiding colleges and universities in their admissions decisions.
- This will help to eliminate the intensity, stressfulness, and wasted time of the Grade 12 examination season faced by students every year as well as by so many higher educational institutions and employers
- The system seems to have some similarities to the SAT, a standardised aptitude test widely used for admissions to colleges and universities in the United States. The SAT, however, is used as a criterion alongside school grades.
- In India, the common entrance test has largely been the domain of aspirants to professional or post-graduate courses, but that is already changing.
- The new National Testing Agency (NTA) has already conducted premier professional entrance tests — JEE, NEET, and CMAT — this year.
- NTA will also conduct admission tests for applicants to more than 170 Delhi University (DU) courses, including 12 undergraduate programmes.
National Testing Agency:
- National Testing Agency (NTA) is an Indian government agency that has been approved by the Union Council of Ministers and established in November 2017 to conduct entrance examinations for higher educational institutions
- It also helps individual colleges and universities in the field of testing and to provide training and advisory services to the institutions in India. It provides quality testing services to the academic institutions in India.
- It undertakes the reforms and training of school boards as well as other bodies where the testing standards should be comparable with the entrance examinations.
NGT stays linkage of Godavari, Krishna and Penna
01, Jun 2019
Why in News:
- The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued an order staying the Andhra Pradesh Government’s scheme to link Godavari Krishna and Penna Rivers of the State. It ordered that Ministry of Environment should submit a report on it within a month.
Details:
- The Tribunal in an order released said that the State could not go ahead with the project without getting clearance from the Central Water Commission (CWC) and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
- A Bench of the tribunal in an order “restrained” Andhra Pradesh from proceeding further with the project till acquired environmental clearance, consent to establish and operate the project under provisions of the Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986, Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. The tribunal ordered the Regional office of the Union Environment Ministry to inspect the river linkage project along with the Central Pollution Control Board and the State Pollution Control Board and submit a factual report.
CWC
- CWC is apex Technical Organization of India in the field of Water Resources.
- It is presently functioning as an attached office of Union Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation.
- It is charged with the general responsibilities of initiating and coordinating schemes of control, utilization and conservation of water resources throughout the country.
Jal Shakti’ Ministry to deal with integrated water issues
01, Jun 2019
Why in News:
- A new ‘Jal Shakti’ Ministry, in which the erstwhile Ministries of Water Resources and Drinking Water and Sanitation will be merged, has been formed
Details:
- Mr. Shekhawat took charge of the Ministry
- The remit of the Ministry will encompass issues ranging from international and inter-State water disputes, the Namami Gange project, the flagship initiative to clean the Ganga, its tributaries and sub-tributaries and the provision of clean drinking water.
- Mr. Shekhawat said that the priority would be to provide clean drinking water to everyone.
NGT Raps states for not curbing pollution in Ganga
01, Jun 2019
Why in news
- The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a penalty of Rs. 25 lakh each on the States of Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal for not taking adequate steps to curb pollution in the river Ganga.
Details:
- A Bench headed by NGT Chairperson observed that while in Bihar there was no progress in terms of completion of sewage treatment infrastructure projects, in West Bengal only three out of the 22 projects had been completed. “The States of West Bengal, Bihar and Jharkhand are not represented in spite of orders of this Tribunal by which we recorded strong disapproval to such attitude of the said States. Such insensitivity in a serious matter is a matter of concern,” the Bench observed.
- NGT directed the [three] States to deposit Rs. 25 lakh each by way of interim compensation for continued damage to Ganga and inaction of the said States even in responding to this Tribunal. The States were directed to deposit the penalty within a month with the Central Pollution Control Board, and the amount “may be spent on restoration of the environment.” Noting that the discharge of effluents is an offence, the green panel directed the Uttar Pradesh government to prohibit industrial activity that resulted in pollution.
What is National Green Tribunal (NGT)?
- It is a specialised body set up under the National Green Tribunal Act (2010) for effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources. With the establishment of the NGT, India became the third country in the world to set up a specialised environmental tribunal, only after Australia and New Zealand, and the first developing country to do so.
- NGT is mandated to make disposal of applications or appeals finally within 6 months of filing of the same.
- The NGT has five places of sittings, New Delhi is the Principal place of sitting and Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata and Chennai are the other four.
India to lose preferential trade terms with U.S.
01, Jun 2019
Why in news
- India will lose access to preferential trade terms with the U.S. under the latter’s Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) programme.
Details:
- Trump had written to the U.S. Congress on stating his intention to withdraw GSP benefits for India, saying India had failed to assure Washington that it would provide “equitable and reasonable access to the markets of India”.
- GSP can and is expected to be terminated via a Presidential proclamation. Indian exports to the U.S. worth $5.6 billion are covered by GSP, although India gets only $190 million in tariff savings. Nevertheless, the programme impacts crucial Indian sectors including textiles, leather, engineering goods, gems and jewellery.
GSP:
- Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) is an umbrella that comprises the bulk of preferential schemes granted by industrialized nations to developing countries.
- It involves reduced Most Favored Nations (MFN) Tariffs or duty-free entry of eligible products exported by beneficiary countries to the markets of donor countries.
Saudi Arabia is sowing division’
01, Jun 2019
Why in News:
- Tehran accused Riyadh of “sowing division” in the region to Israel’s advantage, after the Kingdom hosted summits of Gulf and Arab leaders to rally support against the Islamic republic.
Details:
- Saudi Arabia has “continued to sow division between Islamic countries and in the region, which is the wish of the Zionist regime,” Foreign Ministry spokesman said.
- Saudi Arabia’s King Salman ratcheted up the rhetoric against arch-rival Iran, calling on Arab states to confront its “criminal” actions after attacks on oil installations sparked fears of a regional conflagration.
- Tehran dismissed the accusation as “laughable” and accused the U.S. of pursuing “evil desires for chaos in the region.”
Oil price:
- The ruler of the world’s top crude exporter said Shia Iran’s development of nuclear and missile capabilities and its threats on world oil supplies posed a risk to regional and global security. Riyadh accused Tehran of ordering the drone strikes. The attacks were claimed by the Iran-aligned Houthi group, which has been battling a Saudi-led military coalition in Yemen for four years. “The Kingdom is keen to preserve the stability and security of the region, to spare it the scourge of war and to realise peace and stability,”
Nuclear deal:
- Tensions have risen between the U.S. and Iran after President Donald Trump a year ago withdrew Washington from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran, re-imposed sanctions and boosted its military presence in the Gulf. The final communiqué said regional stability required the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along 1967 borders to include Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
U.S. to hit Mexico with tariffs over migration
01, Jun 2019
Why in news
- Washington will impose a 5% tariff on all goods from Mexico — increasing to as much as 25% — until “illegal migrants” stop coming through the country into the U.S., President Donald Trump said.
Details:
- The Tariff will gradually increase until the Illegal Immigration problem is remedied, at which time the Tariffs will be removed,” Tariffs will permanently remain at the 25% level unless and until Mexico substantially stops the illegal inflow of aliens coming through its territory,” the statement said. The tariffs would have severe consequences on Mexico, which sends 80% of its exports to the U.S.
Mexico’s response
- Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador struck a conciliatory tone in a letter to Mr. Trump following the tariff announcement. “I express to you that I don’t want confrontation,” The announcement came a day after border agents in El Paso, Texas detained the largest single group of migrants they had ever encountered — 1,036 people.
Recent Cases of Migration
- Syria is focal point of ‘global refugee crises’. Lot of people migrate from the country. People crossing Mediterranean Sea from Libya to Italy.
- Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar fleeing to Bangladesh and India. Thousands of Dominicans and Stateless in Caribbean.
Drawbacks
- It is often seen that immigrants are exploited for their cheap labour.
- Developing countries may suffer ‘Brain Drain’ as the limited resources they spend in educating their students would amount to very little if that talent gets enticed to another country. Immigration also attracts criminal elements from drug and people traffickers to other forms of crime and corruption. Immigration sometimes also becomes social or political issue; racism is used to exploit feelings or as an excuse for current woes of the local population.
Philippines returns trash to Canada
01, Jun 2019
Why in news
- Tonnes of garbage sent to the Philippines years ago was shipped back to Canada after a festering diplomatic row.
Details:
- Asian nations are increasingly objecting to being treated as dumping grounds for international trash.
- The 69 shipping containers of garbage were loaded onto a cargo vessel at Subic Bay to begin the lengthy trip to Canada.
Malaysia to return non-recyclable plastic waste
- The Malaysian Government has announced it will return around 3,000t of smuggled non-recyclable plastic waste to their countries of origin, including the UK, US, Australia and Canada. The offending countries were urged to review their management of plastic waste and to stop shipping waste out to developing countries.
Waste dumping proposal defeated
- A proposal by India to prevent developed countries from dumping their electronic and plastic waste onto developing countries, was defeated at the recently concluded meeting of the Basel Convention in Geneva.
- “India and Nigeria were the only countries that had strongly opposed the guidelines, pushed by the European Union, to dilute safeguards against the trans-boundary movement of e-waste,”
The Basel Convention
- Formally called: The Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal. It is an international treaty
- Aims to reduce the movements of hazardous waste between nations, and specifically to prevent transfer of hazardous waste from developed to less developed countries
E-Cigarettes Pose Public Health Risk, Says ICMR
01, Jun 2019
Why in News:
- The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has warned of a potential public health disaster if action was not taken to completely prohibit and dissuade the use of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) or e-cigarettes.
Details:
- The nicotine delivered by these devices adversely affect almost all systems in a human body.
- E-cigarette use adversely affects the cardiovascular system, impairs respiratory immune cell function and airways in a way similar to cigarette smoking and is responsible for severe respiratory disease.
- It also poses risk to foetus, infant, and child brain development
Harmful effects
- “Use of e-cigarettes has documented adverse effects on humans which include DNA damage; carcinogenesis; cellular, molecular and immunological toxicity; respiratory, cardiovascular and neurological disorders and adverse impact on foetal development and pregnancy,’’ Given the harmful health effects e-cigarettes pose to users, as well as passive exposure, failure to make appropriate interventions at the right time could lead to a public health disaster in India.
Urges complete ban
- There are more than 460 different e-cigarette brands with varying configurations of nicotine delivery available in the market, according to the ICMR.
- The ICMR has recommended complete prohibition on ENDS or e-cigarettes in India in the greater interest of protecting public health.
- E-cigarettes also open a gateway for new tobacco addiction, which is a potential threat to the country’s tobacco control laws and ongoing tobacco control programmes and efforts
ICMR
- ICMR is India’s apex scientific body for the formulation, coordination and promotion of biomedical research. It was established in 1911 as Indian Research Fund Association (IRFA) making it one of oldest and largest medical research bodies in the world.
- The ICMR functions under Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It is headquartered in New Delhi.
NO SHORTAGE OF POLIO VACCINE
19, May 2019
Why in News:
- No shortage of polio vaccine for routine immunisation says Health ministry.
Background:
- The issue came after reports of anticipated shortage following the detection of contamination, by the Central Drugs Laboratory (CDL) in Kasauli, in 16 batches of polio vaccine manufactured by Bharat Immunological and Biologicals Corporation Limited (Bibcol).
What is poliomyelitis/polio?
- Poliomyelitis, often called polio or infantile paralysis is an acute infectious disease caused by polio virus. The virus is a human enterovirus of the Picornaviridae
- There are three types of Polio Virus: 1,2,3-Single stranded RNA virus Natural or Wild Polio Virus (WPVS). It is transmitted from one person to another by oral contact with secretions or faecal material from an infected person. It attacks the central nervous system through the blood stream and damage the cells and paralyse the victim.
Types of Polio vaccines
- Two different kinds of vaccine are available: an inactivated (killed) polio vaccine (IPV) and a live attenuated oral polio vaccine (OPV).
Inactivated Polio vaccine (IPV):
- It was first introduced in 1995 by Dr. Jonas Salk
- It is produced from wild-type poliovirus strains of each serotype that have been inactivated (killed) with formalin.
- It is an injectionable vaccine and can be administered alone or in combination with other vaccines (e.g., diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, and haemophilus influenza).
Oral Polio vaccine (OPV):
- It was first introduced in 1961 by Dr. Albert Sabin
- consists of a mixture of the three live attenuated poliovirus serotypes (Sabin types 1, 2 and 3), selected for their lower neurovirulence and reduced transmissibility.
- Apart from trivalent OPV (tOPV), monovalent OPVs viz. against Type 1 (mOPV1) and against type-3 (mOPV3) have been licensed for use in some countries
- In 2009, 2 bivalents (type-1 and type-3) OPVs (bOPVs) were licensed.
EXTERNAL WOES: ON INDIA’S FOREIGN TRADE
18, May 2019
Why in News:
- The estimates for foreign trade showed a sharp slowdown in merchandise export growth in April, 2019 to 0.64% from a year earlier.
Background: / what is the exports scenario?
- There was a 31% surge in petroleum products shipments to overseas markets in April.
- If this is removed, India’s goods export actually contracted by over 3% in dollar terms.
- [In contrast, overall merchandise exports had expanded 11% year-on-year in March, 2019 with the growth in shipments excluding petroleum products.]
- The slump in exports was fairly widespread, with 16 of the 30 major product groups reflecting contractions.
- This is in contrast with the 10 categories that had shrunk in March.
- Worryingly, shipments of engineering goods declined by over 7% after having expanded by 16.3% in March.
- The traditionally strong export sectors all weakened in April.
- These include the gems and jewellery, leather and leather products, textiles and garments, and drugs and pharmaceuticals sectors.
- E.g. contraction in gem and jewellery exports widened to 13.4% in April, from 0.4% in March; it was 15.3% from 6.4% respectively for the leather segment
- Likewise, the pace of growth of garment exports decelerated to 4.4% from 15.1% in March.
What is the case with imports?
BALANCE OF TRADE
- Imports grew by 4.5% to $41.4 billion in April, accelerating from March’s 1.4%.
- This was primarily because the purchases of crude oil and gold continued to increase.
- The 9.3% jump in the oil import bill, from March’s 5.6%, can partly be explained by the rise in international crude prices. However, the 54% surge in gold imports reflects India’s unappeasable appetite for gold, calling for policymakers’ attention and action.
- Excluding oil and gold, however, imports shrank by more than 2% in April.
- This signals that import demand in the real productive sectors is largely balanced.
What are the Implications?
- Jobs and demand – The traditionally strong export sectors are all key providers of jobs.
- So any prolonged slump across these industries will impact jobs, wages and overall consumption demand in the domestic market.
- Trade deficit – With merchandise imports outpacing exports, the trade deficit widened to a five-month high of $15.3 billion.
- The widening trade shortfall will add pressure on India’s widening current account deficit (CAD).
- Being at around $51.9 billion in the first 9 months of fiscal 2018-19, CAD had already surpassed the preceding financial year’s 12-month shortfall of $48.7 billion.
- More challenges and limitations to trade and exports are ahead with the escalating trade war between the U.S. and China.
- The impacts of this could be widespread on global growth.
- Moreover, the rising military tensions in West Asia could potentially further push up oil prices, further increasing India’s import burden.
- Given these, containing the trade and current account deficits seems significantly challenging and urgent measures are needed to boost exports.
AIR INDIA ARM’S PRIVATISATION HITS A BUMP
18, May 2019
why in news:
- The government’s effort to privatise Air India Air Transport Services Ltd., Air India’s ground handling arm, has run into a stone wall, with potential bidders raising concerns over the Airport Authority of India’s plan to award ground-handling work at 76 of its airports to vendors.
Background: / What is the present condition of Air India?
- Air India had accumulated debt of more than Rs.50,000 crore as of the end of the 2015-16 fiscal year.
- Flights are routinely delayed, the equipment is old and mouldering, and the service is poor. The airline has become a platform through which politicians and officials enjoy the perks of office.
What are the advantages of privatization?
- A privatized Air India will cease to be a drain on the exchequer.
- The theory of economic policy establishes that government intervention in the economy is warranted only in the event of market failure or of an overarching non-economic objective. Going beyond conventional tools of intervention, such as regulation, taxes and subsidies, nationalization and monopolization of an industry only makes sense in the rarest of cases.
- e.g Situations in which the private market cannot deliver, such as a case of catastrophic market failure. So logically the government should not be in the commercial airline business. It might support flights to commercially unviable areas, subsidies, etc, not nationalization. Competing with private airlines, Air India is not doing a good job of it.
- Its domestic market share dropped to about 13% as of March 2017.
What should be done?
- The best way to turn Air India into a great global airline would be to cut it loose from the clutches of the government. It can be done either by fully privatizing the airline or reducing the government’s stake to a minority interest. e.g Following the privatization, British Airways rose to become the world’s “favourite airline”. The experience of other countries, from Kenya to Canada to Singapore shows how successful is privatization.
- Disinvestment of Air India would send absolutely the right message, that India is now a market economy.
- If that happens, we will know that the old era of central planning is, just maybe, genuinely behind us after all.
MASALA BONDS LISTED AT LSE
18, May 2019
Why in News:
- Kerala becomes first sub-sovereign entity in country to access global market
Background: / Kerala masala bonds:
- The State has turned out to be the first sub-sovereign entity in the country to access the international market by listing masala bonds issued through its
- off-budget mechanism, the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB).
- Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has become the debutant head of state in the country to open trading at the London Stock Exchange.
- KIIFB has raised ₹2,150 crore through masala bonds at a fixed interest rate of 9.723% per annum.
- The resources earned through the bonds would be channelised for funding a clutch of infrastructure development projects cleared by the KIIFB director board. KIIFB had decided to garner ₹3,500 crore from the international market in the initial phase. It plans to list the bonds at the Singapore stock exchange too.
What is Masala bond:
- Masala Bonds are rupee denominated bonds issued for funding Indian companies using foreign investor’s money.
- They are issued by International Finance Corporation (IFC )- a part of World Bank Group.
What is so special about them?
- Since these bonds are rupee denominated, burden of debt repayment due to fluctuating of currency falls on funders and hence Indian companies are expected to benefit from them.
How they help in meeting housing and infrastructure development
- Indian construction companies have big problems in getting domestic capital and it is a big challenge for getting foreign investor to come to India.
- Therefore, funders can buy bonds in their own stock exchange (London stock exchange , in this case ) without facing hassle to register here first
- Since denomination ensures good profit to Indian companies, this would create a healthy environment for other infrastructure companies to follow suit too and provide for necessary capital for Housing for all.
Challenges
- Though Real estate bill, prevention of corruption act and black-market bill will help in suspicious money to be reduced to large extent, much more needs to be done to boost consumers and investors’ confidence
TAIWAN LEGALIZES SAME-SEX MARRIAGE IN HISTORIC FIRST FOR ASIA
18, May 2019
Why in News:
- Lawmakers in Taiwan have approved a bill legalizing same-sex marriage, a landmark decision that makes the self-ruled island the first place in Asia to pass gay marriage legislation.
Details:
- Lawmakers comfortably passed part of a bill that would allow gay couples to enter into “exclusive permanent unions” and apply for marriage registration with government agencies.
What is Section 377?
- Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code dating back to 1860, introduced during the British rule of India, criminalises sexual activities “against the order of nature”, including homosexual sexual activities. Prior to that, sexual activities, including amongst homosexuals, were not penalised in India.
- Though it textually applies to all persons, homosexual and heterosexual, it has been targeted at Transgender men.
Courts judgement on Section 377
- The Delhi High Court in Naz Foundation v. Government of NCT of Delhi (2009) rightly held that criminalising sexual activities with consent in private not only impairs the dignity of those persons targeted by the law, but it is also discriminatory and impacts the health of those people.
- The top court had set aside a historic Delhi High Court judgment that had decriminalized homosexuality.
- Supreme Court, in Suresh Kumar Koushal v. Naz Foundation (2013) case, set aside the Delhi High Court judgment and said that homosexuality or unnatural sex between two consenting adults under Section 377 of IPC is illegal and will continue to be an offense. The court said that Section 377 did not suffer from any “constitutional infirmity”.
- The astounding claim made in Koushal case that there was no need to challenge Section 377 because the LGBT community constitutes only a minuscule minority has been completely discredited. It was unreasonable to advance the view that constitutional protection is available to a group based on its size.
VARANASI HAS ONLY ONE AIR QUALITY MONITORING
18, May 2019
Why in News:
- Varanasi is being ranked as one among the top 3 most polluted cities in the world three years ago, a Right to Information request has found.
Details:
-
The Central Pollution Control Board’s 2015 dataset found Varanasi’s air quality to be
among the most toxic in the country. - It had only one air quality monitor capable of measuring particulate matter 2.5 and particulate matter 10 levels. Out of 227 days measured in 2015, the city had zero ‘good- air’ days and this was attributed to the heavy levels of industrial pollution.
- Biomass burning, vehicular emissions, brick kilns and diesel generator sets were also major contributors. Varanasi is one of the cities that is part of the National Clean Air Campaign, an initiative by the Union Environment Ministry to improve air quality in 100 cities by 20% at least by 2024. One of the commitments under this is to improve air quality monitoring.
National Clean Air Programme / Objective:
Target:
Implementation:
- NCAP talks of a collaborative, multi-scale and cross-sectoral coordination between central ministries, state governments and local bodies. The CPCB will execute the nation-wide programme for the prevention, control, and abatement of air pollution within the framework of the NCAP. NCAP will be “institutionalised” by respective ministries and will be organised through inter-sectoral groups that will also include the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Health, NITI Aayog, and experts from various fields.
Other features of NCAP
- Increasing the number of monitoring stations in the country including rural monitoring stations, Technology support
- Emphasis on awareness and capacity building initiatives Setting up of certification agencies for monitoring equipment Source apportionment studies
- Emphasis on enforcement Specific sectoral interventions.
National Ambient Air Quality Standards
- National Ambient Air Quality Standards are the standards for ambient air quality set by the Central Pollution Control Board that is applicable nationwide.
- The CPCB has this power of setting the standards given by the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. The main objective of Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1981 is to prevent and control Air Pollution. Recent industrialization and increased number of air polluting sources has polluted the environment with toxic materials which not only harm human health but are also a threat to the eco system in general.
- In order to cope up with deteriorating air quality, Government of India enacted Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, which is an umbrella act for the protection of all aspects of the environment.
The main functions of CPCB are:
- To advise the appropriate government regarding improvement of the quality of air and the prevention, control and abatement of air pollution. To execute and plan a nation-wide programme for the prevention, control and abatement of air pollution. To carry out due diligence related to prevention, control and abatement of air pollution.
- To provide annual standards for the quality of air.
- To compile, collect and publish technical and statistical data related to air pollution.
CHARTING A CLEAR COURSE IN THE INDO-PACIFIC
18, May 2019
Why in News:
- Indo-Pacific has been gaining traction in Indian policy and has achieved operational clarity after the Indian vision was presented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Shangri-La Dialogue.
Details:
- India has been an active participant in mechanisms like the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), in ASEAN-led frameworks like the East Asia Summit, the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus, the ASEAN Regional Forum as well as the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi- Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation and the Mekong-Ganga Economic Corridor.
- India has also been convening the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium, in which the navies of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) participate.
- India has boosted its engagements with Australia and New Zealand and has deepened its cooperation with the Republic of Korea.
- India is stepping up its interactions with the Pacific Island countries.
- India’s growing partnership with Africa can be seen through the convening of mechanisms
like the India-Africa Forum Summits. - India’s multi-layered engagement with China as well as strategic partnership with Russia underlines its commitment to ensuring a stable, open, secure, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
Background:
Shangri-La Dialogue
- The Shangri-La Dialogue (SLD) is an intergovernmental security forum held annually by an independent think tank, the International Institute for Strategic Studies in Singapore.
- The Shangri-La Dialogue has evolved into a key strategic gathering of the Asia-Pacific region. It is attended by defense ministers, permanent heads of ministries and military chiefs of Asia-Pacific states.
East Asia Summit
- The East Asia Summit (EAS) is a forum held annually by leaders of 18 countries established in the year 2005. Initially, 16 countries in the East Asian, Southeast Asian and South Asian regions were the members of the forum.
- The membership expanded to 18 countries including the United States and Russia at the Sixth EAS in 2011. EAS meetings are held after the annual Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders’ meetings.
- The first summit was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on 14 December 2005.
- The East Asia Summit includes India, China, Japan, Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand, The United States, and Russia apart from the 10 ASEAN Member States.
- India is a founding member of the East Asia Summit.
- Eleven East Asia Summits have been held so far. Though the ASEAN is at the core of the EAS, its vision is beyond the ASEAN and is seen by India as an alternative to the APEC, in which India doesn’t enjoy the membership.
- Within the framework of the East Asia Summit, there are six priority areas of regional cooperation. These are
- Environment and Energy
- Education
- Finance
- Global Health Issues and Pandemic Diseases
- Natural Disaster Management
- ASEAN Connectivity.
- EAS is an initiative of ASEAN and is based on the premise of the centrality of ASEAN.
- It has evolved as a forum for strategic dialogue and cooperation on political, security and economic issues of common regional concern and plays an important role in the regional architecture.
- Trade is also an important focus for the summit.
Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA)
- The Indian Ocean Rim Association was set up with the objective of strengthening regional cooperation and sustainable development within the Indian Ocean Region
- The IORA is a regional forum, tripartite in nature, bringing together representatives of Government, Business and Academia, for promoting co-operation and closer interaction among them.
- It is based on the principles of Open Regionalism for strengthening Economic Cooperation particularly on Trade Facilitation and Investment, Promotion as well as Social Development of the region.
- India, Australia, Iran, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, South Africa, Mozambique, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Bangladesh, Singapore, Mauritius, Madagascar, UAE, Yemen, Seychelles, Somalia, Comoros and Oman are among the members of IORA.
BIMSTEC:
- BIMSTEC stands for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation. It is an international organisation involving a group of countries in South Asia and South East Asia. 7 members are Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan, Nepal
- Established in 1997 in Bangkok
- Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand were founding members HQ: Dhaka, Bangladesh
- The main objective of BIMSTEC is technological and economic cooperation among south Asian and south east Asian countries along the coast of the Bay of Bengal. Commerce, investment, technology, tourism, human resource development, agriculture, fisheries, transport and communication, textiles, leather etc. have been included in it
- BIMSTEC uses the alphabetical order for the Chairmanship Bhutan has never been chairman
- Current chairmanship: Sri Lanka
Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC)
- The MGC is an initiative by India and five ASEAN countries, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam for cooperation in tourism, culture, education, as well as transport and communications. It was launched in 2000 at Vientiane, Laos. It is named after Ganga and the Mekong which both are civilisational rivers. MGC initiative aims to facilitate closer contacts among the people inhabiting these two major river basins.
TRUMP COULD MEET XI ON SIDELINES OF G20 MEET
13, May 2019
Why in News:
- President Donald Trump and China’s Xi Jinping could meet on the sidelines of the G20 summit to hash out their differences on trade, but no new talks are scheduled.
Details:
- The world’s top two economies ended two days of negotiations in Washington with no deal The G20 summit is scheduled to take place in Osaka on June 28-29.
- Mr. Trump ordered new punitive duties, on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports, raising them to 25% from 10%.
- He then ordered a tariff hike on almost all remaining imports — $300 billion worth
Group of 20:
- The G20 (Group of 20) is an international forum which includes 19 of the world’s largest
- economies and the European Union.
- G20 is a forum for economic, financial and political cooperation. It addresses the major global challenges and seeks to generate public policies that resolve them.
Significance of G20:
- Together, the G20 members represent
- Two thirds of the world population. 85% of the global gross product.
- 75% of international trade.
- 80% of global investments in research and development.
DEAL IN DANGER: ON IRAN AND NUCLEAR DEAL
13, May 2019
Why in News:
- Iran’s decision to reduce its commitments under the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which sought to curtail its nuclear capabilities, is more of a warning than a move to break the nuclear deal
Details:
- Iran has been under economic and political pressure since President Donald Trump pulled the U.S. out of the deal a year ago. The U.S. has since amped up its anti-Iran rhetoric and reimposed sanctions.
- With the U.S. having ended the sanctions-waiver it had given to certain countries, including India, on purchasing Iranian oil, the Iranian economy has come under more pressure.
- Iran will immediately stop shipping out excess enriched uranium and heavy water. Mr. Rouhani has given 60 days to other signatories to find solutions to shield Iran’s banking and oil sectors from U.S. sanctions. The big threat is that it will resume higher levels of enrichment to build weapons unless its grievances are addressed in 60 days
- Iran’s move to put the remaining signatories on notice could be the start of the formal unravelling of the deal. If Europe doesn’t do enough in 60 days and Iran sticks to its threat, the deal will collapse, giving more reason to the U.S. to escalate hostilities
- A collapse of the deal would not only exacerbate the Iran nuclear crisis but also set a bad precedent in international diplomacy.
Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)
- The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) known commonly as the Iran deal, is an international agreement on the nuclear program of Iran reached in Vienna on 14 July 2015 between Iran, the P5+1 (the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council—China, France, Russia, United Kingdom, United States—plus Germany),and the European Union.
Way Forward:
- With this decision President Trump is risking U.S. national security, recklessly upending foundational partnerships with key U.S. allies in Europe and gambling with Israel’s security.
- Withdrawal from the JCPOA makes it more likely Iran will restart its nuclear weapons program in the future
- The U.S. stands isolated in its decision. Europe and other powers (UN permanent members) should stick together to respect the mandate of an international agreement. Any sanctions imposed by U.S. will hurt the global economy and may force Iran to stock nuclear weapons, further complicating the situation.
- Thus, the need of the hour is to standby with the agreement even after the U.S. has withdrawn.
NOTICE TO CENTRE ON BT BRINJAL
13, May 2019
Why in News:
- Senior advocate Prashant Bhushan has sent a legal notice to Union Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan asking for a freeze on all genetically modified organisms, including field trials.
Details:
- Though growing Bt brinjal is illegal in India Bhushan’s letter comes in the aftermath of activist groups recently proffering evidence of Bt Brinjal, a GM crop, being grown in a farmer’s field in Haryana.
- Letter demands the Environment Ministry to uproot and destroy planted Bt brinjal in farms and seedlings in nurseries, undertake a scaled-up exercise of testing of seeds and plantings (for the presence of BT Genes) and, ascertain the supply chain – from seed developers to intermediaries.”
- Bt brinjal was the first food crop made to contain an insecticidal protein, called cry1 ac,
- Though this was cleared for commercial cultivation it was put in deep-freeze in 2010 on the grounds that there was scientific and public disagreement on its safety.
- The lab report was also sent to the government, which picked up samples of the suspected Bt Brinjal crop and sent it to the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) in New Delhi for testing.
- Following brinjal, a genetically modified strain of mustard too is in the regulatory pipeline. GEAC panel ruled that more tests were required before the mustard could be made available in farmer fields.
What is Bt Brinjal?
- Bt Brinjal is a transgenic brinjal created out of inserting a gene [Cry 1Ac] from the soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis into Brinjal. The insertion of the gene into the Brinjal cell in young cotyledons has been done through an Agrobacterium-mediated vector, along with other genes like promoters, markers etc.
- This gives (so said) Brinjal plant resistance against lepidopteran insects like the Brinjal Fruit and Shoot Borer (Leucinodes orbonalis) and Fruit Borer (Helicoverpa armigera).
Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC)
- The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) was constituted under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) as the apex body under the ‘Rules for Manufacture, Use, Import, Export and Storage of Hazardous Microorganisms/Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells 1989’ in accordance with the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources
- Management and promote sustainable use of plant genetic and genomic resources of agri- hotricultural crop and carry out related research
- Coordination and capacity building in PGR management and policy issues governing access and benefit sharing of their use
ASSAM PRODUCES AN ORCHID LINK TO THE ORIENT
13, May 2019
Why in News:
- A discovery in Assam has given India one of its smallest orchids in terms of size and duration of bloom to be recorded botanically.
Details:
- Lecanorchis taiwaniana, which the Japanese Journal of Botany has published as a “new record for the flora in India” in its latest issue, is a mycoheterotroph, one of two types of parasitic plants that have abandoned photosynthesis.
- It appeared close to the nigricans species while bearing 90% similarity with the taiwaniana species named after Taiwan.
- Lecanorchis taiwaniana adds to the orchid wealth of northeast India, which has 800 of some 1,300 species in the country.
- About 300 species are found in the Western Ghats and 200 in the northwestern Himalayas The orchid, discovered earlier in Japan, Taiwan, and Laos, was found to have a maximum height of 40 cm and a blossoming period of five-six days.
- The herbal value of this orchid that flowers and fruits from July to September is yet to be ascertained. But as it derives its energy and nutrients from fungus, it may be of herbal importance
- Medicinal Plants and Mushrooms of India with special reference to Assam contains information on 1,400 medicinal plants and mushrooms, including Costus pictus or the insulin plant used in treating diabetes mellitus, and Ophiorrhiza mungos used in treating cancer because of the alkaloid Camptothecin present in it.
- Also known as Indian snake root, O. mungos has been the subject of medicinal research.
Parasites
- The word parasite is derived from the Greek word meaning -one that eats at another table and is estimated to be from around 5900BC.Parasites are an incredibly varied group of organisms that live within host cells. They are smaller than their host organism and reproduces faster by causing more damage to the host. They receive all sort of benefits like food and shelter from the host. Their size ranges from tiny, single-celled organisms to worms over 20- 30 m in length.
SUBSTANTIVE EQUALITY: ON SC/ST GOVERNMENT STAFF
13, May 2019
why in news:
- The Supreme Court on Friday upheld the validity of a new Karnataka law granting reservation in promotions to Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (SC/ST) employees.
Background: / Various judgements related to SC/ST reservations in promotion:
-
Indhira Sawhney Case (1992):
- In Indira Sawhney case, where it was held that once SCs and STs were part of the Presidential List under Articles 341 and 342 of the Constitution, and there was no need to prove backwardness.
- Hence, SC ruled that States need not collect quantifiable data on the backwardness of SC/ST for giving quota in job promotion to SC/ST employees.
- It had not made any changes to application of ‘creamy layer’ principle in reservation in promotion of SC/STs.
2. Nagaraj Case (2006):
- The Supreme Court had held that the state was not bound to provide reservation in promotions to SCs/STs.
- But in case any state wished to make such a provision, it was required to –
- Collect quantifiable data on backwardness of the
- Prove its inadequate representation in public
- Show no compromise on efficiency of
- Additionally, the state was also required to ensure that the reservation does not breach the 50% ceiling.
- The ruling also said that the ‘creamy layer’ concept applies to SCs and STs for promotions in government jobs.
3. Jarnail Singh Case (2018):
- The court set aside the requirement to collect quantifiable data that was stipulated by its 2006 verdict in M. Nagaraj v. Union of India as it ignored the reasoning of a nine-judge bench in Indra Sawhney (1992) that any discussion on creamy layer “has no relevance” in the context of SC/STs.
- The court has taken more than a decade to correct an anomaly in the Nagaraj case which brought in a creamy layer filter for promotions for SC/ST employees. This resulted in thousands of employees being denied their due promotions.
Way Ahead:
- The court said special measures need to be adopted for considering the claims of SCs and STs in order to bring them to a level playing field. Centuries of discrimination and prejudice suffered by the SCs and STs in a feudal, caste-oriented societal structure poses real barriers of access to opportunity, it pointed out.
IMF TO LOAN FOR PAKISTAN
13, May 2019
why in news:
- Pakistan will get loan of $6 billion for 3 years-IMF.
Background: / How strained is Pakistan’s economy?
- Pakistan’s economy has been ruined in the last 8 months, and almost every indicator has deteriorated substantially.
- It is marked since Imran Khan became Prime Minister and his party, the Pakistan Tehreek- e-Insaf (PTI), formed the government.
IMF:
- Inflation, at 9.4%, is at its highest level in five-and-a-half years and is likely to rise to double digits for the months ahead.
- The rupee continues to lose value every other day, which adds to further inflation especially with the oil price on the way up.
- The fiscal deficit is about to hit more than 6% of GDP.
- Even a cut in development expenditure will not stop this trend, as defence spending and interest payments continue to rise. Pakistan’s exports, stuck at around $26 bn for years, despite the 35% devaluation of the rupee over one year, have barely recovered.
- Besides, the government owes power producing companies huge amounts of money and the debt continues to accumulate. Interest rates are also going up making the cost of business even more uncompetitive. The GDP grew by 5.8% in the last fiscal year, the highest in 13 years.
- But the State Bank of Pakistan recently lowered the expectations of GDP growth for the current fiscal year to an 8-year low, to around 3.5%.
- This was reduced further by the IMF and the World Bank to a dismal 2.9% for the current fiscal year. It is expected to fall further over the next 3 years. By all accounts, Pakistan’s economy is in a dismal state.
HQ – Washington
- Official language – Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish, Arabic Formally created in 1945 by 29 member countries
- Stated goal was to assist in the reconstruction of world’s international payment system post World War II. Countries contribute funds to a pool through a quota system from which countries with payment imbalances temporarily can borrow money and other resources.
Organization’s objectives as stated in the Articles of Agreement:
- To promote international economic co-operation,
- To promote international trade,
- To promote employment and exchange-rate stability,
- Make financial resources available to member countries to meet balance of payments needs.
Upon initial IMF formation, its two primary functions were:
- To oversee the fixed exchange rate arrangements between countries To provide short-term capital to aid balance of payments
ODISHA SET TO INTROSPECT POST-DISASTER COMMUNICATION
13, May 2019
Why in News:
- The State control room was not able to establish regular communication (telephone, FAX, HAM radio and VHF) with the district headquarters, resulting in utter confusion in relief and rescue operations after cyclone Fani.
Background: / Cyclone Fani:
What is the Issue?
- A powerful cyclonic storm named Fani is headed towards the Odisha coast.
- As a cyclone in Bay of Bengal in April-May season, of this nature, is unusual, it is essential to understand the causes.
How do tropical cyclones form?
- Cyclones are formed over slightly warm ocean waters. It depends on the temperature of the top layer of the sea, up to a depth of about 60 metres. This has to be at least 28°C to support the formation of a cyclone. This explains why the April-May and October- December periods are conducive for cyclones. Secondly, the low level of air above the waters needs to have an ‘anticlockwise’ rotation in the northern hemisphere and vice versa. During these periods, there lies the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) (a low pressure zone) in the Bay of Bengal region, which shifts with seasons. The southern boundary of the zone experiences winds from west to east and the northern boundary from east to west. The ITCZ and the resultant wind pattern induce the anticlockwise rotation of air. Once formed, cyclones in this area usually move northwest.
- As it travels over the sea, the cyclone gathers more moist air from the warm sea, and adds to its strength.
How and Why is Fani different?
- Tropical cyclones in the Bay of Bengal are graded according to maximum wind speeds at their centre as follows:
- Depressions – 30 to 60 km per hour (kph)
- Cyclonic storms – 61 to 88 kph
- Severe cyclonic storms – 89 to 117 kph
- Very severe cyclonic storms – 118 to 166 kph
- Extremely severe cyclonic storms – 167 to 221 kph
- Super cyclones – 222 kph or higher
- Fani is now categorised as an “extremely severe cyclone”.
- It is expected to generate storms with wind speeds as high as 200 km per hour.
- It has the potential to cause widespread damage in Odisha and neighbouring states.
- Given the above discussed reasons, a cyclone of this nature is unusual for April-May cyclones in India. Fani is different mainly on account of its place of origin, and the route it has taken. Origin – The in situ cyclonic systems in the Bay of Bengal usually originate around latitude 10° N (in line with Chennai).
- But Fani originated quite close to the Equator, around latitude 2° N, well below the Sri Lankan landmass. The forecast landfall on the Odisha coast is at a latitude of almost 20°N. As it has originated very close to the Equator, it has taken a long route to reach the landmass. Resultantly, it has traversed a long way on the sea, and thus gained more strength. Route – Fani was initially headed north-westwards, towards the Tamil Nadu coast. But it changed its course midway and moved northeast away from the coastline to reach Odisha.
- The recurve it has taken gave it more time over the sea and has ensured that it has gathered unusual strength.
Cyclone Fani’s Fury Creates Four New Mouths in Odisha’s Chilika Lake
11, May 2019
Why in News:
- The extremely severe cyclone, Fani, has created four new mouths in Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lake, connecting to Bay of Bengal.
Details:
- Chilika lagoon had only two active mouths — the point where it meets the sea before Fani hit the Odisha coast on May
- Four new mouths have opened due to wave energy with high tidal prism.
Salinity surge
- While three new mouths have come up between the two functional mouths near Sanpatna and Arakhakuda, a smaller mouth has been noticed on the northern
- a lot of sea water is entering Chilika Lake.
- If sea water ingression goes up, fish migration will increase and the biodiversity will get richer. But its long-term impact is something we will have to keep a watch on,
- Three of the four sectors are more or less marine The rise in salinity will lead to increase in productivity. Chilika Lake is a mixture of saline and fresh water
- Increase in salinity will not have an impact on Irrawaddy dolphins as they can survive in salinity. Though nesting grounds at Panchakudi and Mangalajodi have been affected, they would be ready to host migratory birds by the time they arrive in Chilika Lake
A fraught moment: U.S.-China Trade War
11, May 2019
Why in News:
- The U.S. and China need to take sustained steps to de-escalate tensions over tariffs
Details:
- The U.S.-China trade war has flared up again after a deceptive lull over the last few months, when both sides were trying to negotiate a
- Trump tweeted that he would raise the 10% tariff
- imposed on $200-billion worth of Chinese goods to 25%. The latest revival in tensions between the world’s two largest economies elevates the risk of a global trade war to its highest level since the first signs emerged in 2018. The increase in tariffs imposed on goods crossing international borders essentially represents a new tax on a global economy already facing a slowdown
- The International Monetary Fund trimmed its projection for global growth in 2019 to 3%, from a 3.5% forecast made in January, citing slowing momentum in “70% of the world economy”.
- Were tensions in trade policy to flare up again, it could result in large disruptions to global supply chains and pose downside risks to global growth, the IMF warned
- world economy faces the very real risk of an escalation in this trade war where other countries, including India
- it could result in U.S. job losses too as the import of Chinese parts become uneconomical for smaller businesses
- Indian policymakers would do well to closely monitor the latest escalation in trade tensions pans out for global demand and international energy prices, given that the RBI has flagged oil price volatility as a factor that would have a bearing on India’s inflation
Impact on India:
- The trade war may impact Indian economy more adversely.
- A trade war would slowdown global growth overall, worsening India’s already dismal export numbers. The biggest impact could be on the rupee which is already battling historic lows against the US The rising price of oil threatens to widen India’s current account deficit, impacting India’s macroeconomic stability. Reducing investment flows into India. However, India which runs a $51.08 billion trade deficit with China may stand to benefit. China imports 100 million metric tons of soybean which serves as protein source and feeds its food processing industry, this presents a huge opportunity for India.
- India may also seek the opportunity to reduce its own trade deficit against India may be able to gain some traction in textile, garments and gems and jewellery if Chinese exports to the US slow down.
For A Full Bench: On Recommendations For Judicial Appointments
11, May 2019
Why in News:
- The government and the Supreme Court collegiums disagree on recommendations for judicial appointments.
Details:
- The latest concerns Jharkhand High Court Chief Justice Aniruddha Bose and Gauhati High Court Chief Justice A.S. Bopanna, who were recommended for elevation to the Supreme
- The government had sought a reconsideration of the two names.
- The collegium has now repeated its recommendations, emphasising that there is nothing adverse against the two judges in terms of their “conduct, competence and integrity” and that there is no reason to agree with the government. Under the present procedure, the government is now bound to accept the
- The Supreme Court is keen to fill up the current
- It has also recommended two more judges, Justice B.R. Gavai of the Bombay High Court and Chief Justice Surya Kant of the Himachal Pradesh High Court, for appointment to the apex court. If all these four recommendations go through, the court will have its full complement of 31
- The filling up of vacancies is a continuous and collaborative process involving the executive and the judiciary, and there cannot be a time frame for
- It is time to think of a permanent, independent body to institutionalise the process.
Collegium system
- Collegium system in India is the system by which the judges are appointed by the judges
- only also referred to as “Judges- selecting- Judges”.
- It is the system of appointment and transfer of judges that has evolved through judgments of the Supreme Court, and not by an Act of Parliament or by a provision of the Constitution.
- The Supreme Court collegium is headed by the Chief Justice of India and comprises four other senior most judges of the A High Court collegium is led by its Chief Justice and four other senior most judges of that court.
- Names recommended for appointment by a High Court collegium reaches the government only after approval by the CJI and the Supreme Court
- The government is bound to appoint a person as a Supreme Court judge if the collegium reiterates its recommendation.
India Facing Critical Shortage Of Healthcare Providers: Who
11, May 2019
Why in News:
- Despite the health sector employing five million workers in India it continues to have low density of health professionals.
Details:
- It is lower than those of Sri Lanka, China, Thailand, United Kingdom and Brazil, according to a World Health Organisation
- This workforce statistic has put the country into the “critical shortage of
- healthcare providers” category. Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and
- Rajasthan are the worst hit while Delhi, Kerala, Punjab and Gujarat compare Southeast Asia needs a 50% increase in healthcare manpower to achieve universal health coverage by 2030. India faces the problem of acute shortages and inequitable distributions of skilled health workers as have many other low- and middle-income countries,’
New courses needed
- The need of the hour is to design courses for different categories of non-physician care providers.
- Competencies should be valued and reform must be brought in regulatory structures to provide flexibility for innovations,
- Data on the prevalence of occupational vacancies in the health care system in India overall is
- Government statistics for 2008, based on vacancies in sanctioned posts showed 18% of primary health centres were without a doctor, about 38% were without a laboratory technician and 16% were without a pharmacist,”
- The health workforce in India comprises broadly eight categories, namely: doctors (allopathic, alternative medicine); nursing and midwifery professionals; public health professionals (medical, non-medical); pharmacists; dentists; paramedical workers (allied health professionals); grass-root workers (frontline workers); and support
World Health Organization
- WHO is a specialised agency of UN
- It is concerned with international public health
- It acts as coordinating authority on international public health Established in 1948
- It succeeded the Health Organization, which was an agency of the League of HQ: Geneva, Switzerland
- India is a founder member of WHO.
- It is a member of UN Development Group (UNDP).
- WHO flag features the Rod of Asclepius as a symbol for healing
National Health Mission
- The National Health Mission (NHM) envisages achievement of universal access to equitable, affordable & quality health care services that are accountable and responsive to people’s needs. The National Health Mission seeks to ensure the achievement of the following indicators. Reduce Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) to 1/1000 live births
- Reduce Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) to 25/1000 live births Reduce Total Fertility Rate (TFR) to 1
- Prevention and reduction of anaemia in women aged 15–49 years
- Prevent and reduce mortality & morbidity from communicable, non-communicable; injuries and emerging Reduce household out-of-pocket expenditure on total health care expenditure. Reduce annual incidence and mortality from Tuberculosis by half
- Reduce prevalence of Leprosy to <1/10000 population and incidence to zero in all districts Annual Malaria Incidence to be <1/1000
- Less than 1 per cent microfilaria prevalence in all districts
- Kala-azar Elimination by 2015, <1 case per 10000 population in all blocks
Karnataka Law On Sc/St Promotion Quota Upheld
11, May 2019
Why in News:
- Jeff Bezos, who heads both Amazon and space company Blue Origin, unveiled a lunar lander and it would be used to transport equipment, and possibly human beings, to the south pole of the Moon by 2024
Details:
- He showed a mock-up of a huge vessel weighing many tons and able to carry four self- driving Mr. Bezos didn’t announce a specific date for the project’s first launch, but said the lander would be ready in time to make President Donald Trump’s announced timeline to return people to the Moon by 2024.
Generating water
- The vehicle has been under development for the past three years.
- It will be capable of carrying scientific instruments, the four small rovers, and also a future pressurized vehicle for humans. The goal is to land on the Moon’s south pole, where ice deposits were confirmed in 2018. Water can be exploited to produce hydrogen, which in turn could fuel future exploration of the solar Fully loaded with fuel, Blue Origin will weigh about 33,000 pounds (15,000 kilograms), which will decrease to around 7,000 pounds when it is about to land
Lunar colonies
- The broader vision to build an infrastructure that would sustain the colonisation of space by future generations of humans and shift polluting industries off the As space agencies prepare to return humans to the moon, top engineers are racing to design a tunnel boring machine capable of digging underground colonies for the first lunar inhabitants. The humans need to be shielded from radiation and freezing temperatures in structures which maintain atmospheric pressure in a vacuum.
- They also need protection from meteorite strikes.
India’s lunar mission
- Chandrayaan-2, India’s second lunar mission, has three modules namely Orbiter, Lander (Vikram) & Rover (Pragyan). The Orbiter and Lander modules will be interfaced mechanically and stacked together as an integrated module and accommodated inside the GSLV MK-III launch The Rover is housed inside the Lander. After launch into earth bound orbit by GSLV MK-III, the integrated module will reach Moon orbit using Orbiter propulsion module.
- Subsequently, Lander will separate from the Orbiter and soft land at the predetermined site close to lunar South
- Further, the Rover will roll out for carrying out scientific experiments on the lunar Instruments are also mounted on Lander and Orbiter for carrying out scientific experiments.
- All the modules are getting ready for Chandrayaan-2 launch during the window of July 09, to July 16, 2019, with an expected Moon landing on September 06,
Karnataka law on Sc/St Promotion Quota upheld
11, May 2019
why in news:
- The Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of a 2018 Karnataka law, granting reservation in promotion and consequential seniority to the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe employees in the state.
Background:
- The Karnataka law grants reservation to non-IAS cadre government employees who belong to SC/ST The issue dates back to 2002 when the Karnataka government had enacted a similar law that was later upheld by a constitutional bench in 2006.
- However, it was challenged in 2011 and in 2017 the apex court had said it was necessary for the government to provide material that there was “compelling necessity” for exercise of such powers that eventually resulted in 3,799 SC/ST employees, promoted earlier, to be The state government had constituted a committee under then chief secretary K.Ratna Prabha to study the backwardness of these communities. The Karnataka government took the ordinance route in August 2017 to circumvent an apex order in February earlier that year that struck down reservations on promotions to SCs/STs by the Karnataka government and had also set a deadline of three months to reverse the promotions.
Controversy:
- In the Indira Sawhney case, the Supreme Court held that the “test or requirement of social and educational backwardness cannot be applied to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, who indubitably fall within the expression ‘backward class of citizens
Trump Raises Tariffs On Chinese Goods
11, May 2019
why in news:
- The Trump administration raised import taxes on $200 billion of Chinese imports from 10% to 25%.
Background: / China’s Dominance:
- China joined WTO in 2001 and since then it has very clearly used the existing Free Trade system to its huge advantage.
- China exports more than 2 trillion worth of goods whereas it imports are just 1.32 trillion. The balance in trade which is in favour of China is 236 This is clearly unsustainable.
- It has created mass manufacturing empire for itself which is hurting other countries including India –low- end manufacturing by offsetting high costs with better infrastructure and more reliable and extensive supply networks. As factory wages in China have risen to the highest in emerging
- Asia, however, other developing countries with lower costs have begun to steal away investment and jobs, helping to promote industrialization and boost growth at home.
- Trump is sending a clear message – China cannot dump their goods around the world.
What Happens Now:
- China holds $1.17 trillion of U.S. government debt. If there is a trade war, China could reduce its S. debt holdings as a political weapon against the Trump administration tariffs proposal.
- If that happens, the dollar could fall and other countries could follow suit and sell their holdings.
- If China reduces it’s buying at a time when the U.S. is increasing its supply of new Treasuries into the market, which could lead to a rout in the bond market.
Effect on India:
- It invariably leads to a higher inflationary and low growth scenario.
- Inflation is generally good for assets such as gold, while having a negative impact on currency and some sectors in the equity market.
- The three external risk factors — higher tariffs, rising interest rates, and elevated bond sales
- —at a time when the domestic banking system is grappling with a renewed stress of bad loans, is a serious threat to India.
Judicial Appointment Contraversy
11, May 2019
Why in News:
- Supreme Court Collegium, led by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, recommended the names of two judges to the court and rejected the government’s disapproval of the elevation of two others.
Background:
- Collegium refused the government’s request to reconsider its April 12 recommendation to elevate Jharkhand High Court and Gauhati High Court Chief Justices Aniruddha Bose and
- S. Bopanna as Supreme Court judges.
- The Collegium said their names were recommended after all parameters were The Collegium said there was no reason to agree with the government as there was
- nothing adverse found in the two judges’ conduct, competence or integrity. Now, the government is bound to appoint Justices Bose and Bopanna to the court.
What is the Collegium System?
- The Collegium System is a system under which appointments/elevation of judges/lawyers to Supreme Court and transfers of judges of High Courts and Apex Court are decided by a forum of the Chief Justice of India and the four senior-most judges of the Supreme Court.’ There is no mention of the Collegium either in the original Constitution of India or in successive
- The recommendations of the Collegium are binding on the Central Government; if the Collegium sends the names of the judges/lawyers to the government for the second
How Collegium System Works?
- The Collegium sends the recommendations of the names of lawyers or judges to the Central Government. Similarly, the Central Government also sends some of its proposed names to the Collegium. The Central Government does the fact checking and investigate the names and resends the file to the Collegium.
- Collegium considers the names or suggestions made by the Central Government and resends the file to the government for final approval. If the Collegium resends the same name again then the government has to give its assent to the names. But time limit is not fixed to reply. This is the reason that appointment of judges takes a long time.
Chandrayan -2 to Be Launched in July
11, May 2019
Why in News:
- Chandrayan-2, a fully indigenous mission to be launched during mid of July with 14 Indian payloads
Background:
- In October 2008, the space organisation had launched its orbiter mission Chandrayaan-1 on its PSLV The spacecraft had 11 payloads. One of the U.S. payloads shares credit with Chandrayaan-1 for confirming the presence of water ice on the moon.
- Before that, the Moon Impacter Probe carrying the Indian tricolour image was made to hard-land on the lunar south pole.
About Chandrayan -2:
- Launch vehicle: GSLV Mk III
- Lift off mass (approx.): 3,890 kg
- Launch from: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh
- Orbiter: It will orbit the moon at a distance of 100 km from the lunar Payloads on the orbiter are: Large Area Soft X-ray Spectrometer, L and S band Synthetic Aperture Radar, Imaging IR Spectrometer, Neutral Mass Spectrometer and Terrain Mapping Camera-2. The structure of the orbiter was manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
- Lander: The lander has been named Vikram after scientist Vikram The lander will detach from the orbiter, descend to a lunar orbit, before attempting to land on the surface.
- It will make a soft-landing and deploy the rover. It will also perform some scientific activities for about 15 days. Payloads on the lander are: seismometer, thermal probe, Langmuir probe and radio occultation.
- Rover: The 27 kg rover will operate on solar It will move on six wheels and conduct chemical analyses on-site. It will then transmit the data to the orbiter which will send this data back to the earth station. The rover payloads include Laser induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS) and Alpha Particle Induced X-ray Spectroscope (APIXS). Chandrayaan II is India’s second lunar mission after Chandrayaan I.
- The mission includes a lunar orbiter, rover and a The mission is developed by ISRO, India. Initially, the lander was supposed to have been developed by Russia. But, when Russia cited its inability to provide the lander by 2015, India decided to go solo. Now, the mission is entirely Indian. The launch vehicle would be a GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III).
Way Ahead:
- The mission is attempting to soft-land on the moon’s surface at a latitude of about 70° south, that would be on a high plain in between 2 If successful, this would be the
N. Korea fires missiles as U.S. envoy visits Seoul
10, May 2019
Why in news
- North Korea fired two short-range missiles, the South’s military said, less than a week after its leader, Kim Jong-un, oversaw the test-firing of multiple rockets and a missile
Details:
- The launches came as U.S. special envoy for North Korea Stephen Biegun was in Seoul for talks with Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha and his counterpart, nuclear envoy Lee Do-hoon.
- South Korea’s President said the tests seemed to be a protest by the North after Mr. Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump failed to reach agreement on the North’s nuclear weapons and missile arsenal at a February summit. “North Korea seemed to be discontented it could not reach a deal in Hanoi,
- The two missiles were fired from the northwest area of Kusong, in an easterly direction, They covered distances of 420 km and 270 km and reached an altitude of about 50 km before falling into the sea,
- South Korea’s presidential Blue House called the missile launches “very worrisome” and unhelpful for efforts to reduce tensions on the peninsula and improve Korean relations.
- even if the missiles were short range, they could still violate UN resolutions barring North Korea from developing its ballistic missile force.
About Missile Test Objective:
- The purpose of drill was to test operating ability and accuracy of multiple rocket launchers and tactical guided weapons and also to increase country’s combat ability. This could be North Korea first short range missile launch after more than a year since it is in talk with US for nuclear disarmament
- Pressure tactics of test: The attempt seeks to put pressure on US in aftermath of deadlocked nuclear talks between leader Kim Jong-un and US President Trump in their second meeting held at Vietnam.
- Importance for US: As US heads into 2020 presidential election, this move by North Korea may threaten signature diplomatic initiative by President Trump depriving him of opportunity to declare that he brought peace with Island Nation (which his predecessors failed). But, in reality peace never got very far as even suspension of all nuclear and missile testing hangs in balance. As per USA’s intelligence agencies report to Congress North Korea in 2018 produced more nuclear material and fabricating an unknown quantity of it into new weapons.
Loud and clear: on India-U.S. discord on market access
10, May 2019
Why in news
- New Delhi must snap out of its denial on the discord with the U.S. on market access
Details:
- U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross lashed out at what he called India’s unfair trade practices and “overly restrictive market access barriers”. His comments followed a series of measures by the U.S. that have affected India.
- These include a refusal to revoke or waive tariff increases made last year on steel and aluminium, an ultimatum that India “zero out” oil imports from Iran even without securing comparable alternatives, and the decision to withdraw India’s GSP (Generalised System of Preferences) trade status.
- India is a “tariff king”, and threatened India with “consequences” if it responded to U.S. tariffs with counter-tariffs,
- New Delhi and Washington need to make a more determined attempt to sort out issues, starting from scratch if required, with tariffs.
- While the 50-60% duties on motorcycles and cars and 150% duties on American liquor that India imposes need a second look, the U.S. must see that average tariffs imposed by India (13.8%) are not much higher than those levied by economies such as South Korea and Brazil.
- In addition, the government will need to revisit some of its decisions like data localisation requirements and new e-commerce regulations, which were declared suddenly, while the U.S. must show some flexibility on India’s price caps on coronary stents and other medical devices
- The U.S. must understand the cultural differences over the labelling of non-vegetarian dairy products
- New Delhi will have to work closely with other countries to build alternative financial structures to avoid U.S. sanctions.
Why the United States matters to India?
- America remains the critical stabilizing force in Asia through its military and diplomatic power projection and commitments to the region
- India will be better able to protect its national interests in Pakistan and Afghanistan in coordination with the United States.
- The United States has also remained one of the top sources of foreign direct investment in India, bringing important managerial expertise, capital, and technology with it to the dynamic Indian market.
Assam NRC: Supreme Court frowns on foreigners’ tribunals plan
10, May 2019
Why in news
- The Supreme Court questioned a proposal by the Assam government to quickly throw open 1,000 foreigners’ tribunals all over the northeastern State to try suspected illegal immigrants.
Details:
- A Bench led by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it looked like the State government hatched the plan without bothering to conduct a “basic study” of how to carry it out.
- A 1,000 tribunals means a 1,000 judicial officers to preside over them.
- The CJI hinted at the possible flood of petitions which would hit the foreigners’ tribunals once the final NRC was published
- These petitions would be from people who had not been able to prove their Indian citizenship.
- The court, which is also examining the plight of 900-odd illegal immigrants languishing in Assam’s detention centres for years, said it was in favour of releasing them.
What is National Register of Citizens (NRC)?
- National Register of Citizens, 1951 is a register prepared after the conduct of the Census of 1951 in respect of each village, showing the houses or holdings in a serial order and indicating against each house or holding the number and names of persons staying therein.
Who is a citizen in Assam?
- The Citizenship Act of 1955 was amended after the Assam Accord for all Indian-origin people who came from Bangladesh before January 1, 1966 to be deemed as citizens. Those who came between January 1, 1966 and March 25, 1971 were eligible for citizenship after registering and living in the State for 10 years while those entering after March 25, 1971, were to be deported.
Impact
- An updated NRC is likely to put an end to speculations about the actual number of illegal migrants in Assam in particular and the country in general.
- It will provide a verified dataset to carry out meaningful debates and implement calibrated policy measures.
- Publication of an updated NRC is expected to deter future migrants from Bangladesh from entering Assam illegally.
- The publication of the draft NRC has already created a perception that staying in Assam without valid documentation will attract detention/jail term and deportation.
- More importantly, illegal migrants may find it even more difficult to procure Indian identity documents and avail all the rights and benefits due to all Indian citizens.
- Inclusion of their names in the NRC will provide respite to all those Bengali speaking people in Assam who have been, hitherto, suspected as being Bangladeshis.
Way Forward
- India, as a country which follows the ideology of ‘VasudhaivaKutumbakam’, should not be hasty in taking decisions that can disenfranchise her citizens – contradicting its centuries-followed values.
- The need of the hour is that Union Government should clearly chart out the course of action regarding the fate of excluded people from final NRC data and political parties should refrain from coloring the entire NRC process through electoral prospects that may snowball in to communal violence.
- There is a need for a robust mechanism of legal support for the four million who have to prove their citizenship to India with their limited means.
Long wait for power in Odisha after Cyclone Fani snaps transmission lines
10, May 2019
Why in news:
- Hot and humid weather has compounded the woes of the cyclone-affected people in Odisha, with the government facing a gigantic task of restoring power to houses in Puri and Khurdha districts battered by Fani. massive efforts is taken by the State government for total power restoration in Bhubaneswar.
Details:
- The extremely severe cyclonic storm ‘Fani’ has damaged 75 high power transmission towers while 84,000 km low tension power lines have been found either broken or sagging. Over 11,000 distribution transformers were damaged.
- Two lakh electric poles have been damaged by the cyclone.
- The Steel Authority of India Limited has made a commitment to provide 60,000 poles in phases while 30,000 poles have to be procured from different manufacturers in the State.
Background:
- A powerful cyclonic storm named Fani is headed towards the Odisha coast.
- As a cyclone in Bay of Bengal in April-May season, of this nature, is unusual, it is essential to understand the causes.
How do tropical cyclones form?
- Cyclones are formed over slightly warm ocean waters.
- It depends on the temperature of the top layer of the sea, up to a depth of about 60 metres.
- This has to be at least 28°C to support the formation of a cyclone.
- This explains why the April-May and October-December periods are conducive for cyclones.
- Secondly, the low level of air above the waters needs to have an ‘anticlockwise’ rotation in the northern hemisphere and vice versa.
- During these periods, there lies the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) (a low pressure zone) in the Bay of Bengal region, which shifts with seasons.
- The southern boundary of the zone experiences winds from west to east and the northern boundary from east to west.
- The ITCZ and the resultant wind pattern induce the anticlockwise rotation of air.
- Once formed, cyclones in this area usually move northwest.
- As it travels over the sea, the cyclone gathers more moist air from the warm sea, and adds to its strength.
How prevalent are tropical cyclones in India?
- Cyclones are a normal event in the eastern coast of India.
- On an average, five to six significant cyclonic storms emerge in the Bay of Bengal region every year.
- The prime seasons for tropical cyclones arethe months of
- April and May, just before the start of the summer monsoon
- October to December, immediately after the end of the summer monsoon
- Cyclones emerging in April-May are usually much weaker than those during October-December.
- Most of the cyclones in April-May move northeast to hit Bangladesh, Myanmar or other countries in the Southeast Asian region.
- There have been only 14 instances of a “severe cyclone” forming in the Bay of Bengal region in April since 1891.
Why are Oct-Dec cyclones more strong?
- A thumb rule for cyclones is that the more time they spend over the seas, the stronger they become.
- [E.g. Hurricanes around the US, which originate in the vast open Pacific Ocean
- They are usually much stronger than the tropical cyclones in the Bay of Bengal, a relatively narrow and enclosed region.]
- In India, cyclones in October-December are usually remnants of cyclonic systems that emerge in the Pacific Ocean.
- They manage to come to the Bay of Bengal, considerably weakened after crossing the Southeast Asian landmass near the South China Sea.
- However, these systems already have some energy, and gather momentum as they traverse over the Bay of Bengal.
- Notably, April-May is not the season for typhoons in the west Pacific Ocean.
- Most of the typhoons, in northern hemisphere, form between June and November.
- So cyclones in April-May originate in situ in the Bay of Bengal itself.
- This is barely a few hundred kilometres from the Indian landmass, and hence the cyclones are relatively weaker.
How and why is Fani different?
- Tropical cyclones in the Bay of Bengal are graded according to maximum wind speeds at their centre as follows:
- depressions – 30 to 60 km per hour (kph)
- cyclonic storms – 61 to 88 kph
- severe cyclonic storms – 89 to 117 kph
- very severe cyclonic storms – 118 to 166 kph
- extremely severe cyclonic storms – 167 to 221 kph
- super cyclones – 222 kph or higher
- Fani is now categorised as an “extremely severe cyclone”.
- It is expected to generate storms with wind speeds as high as 200 km per hour.
- It has the potential to cause widespread damage in Odisha and neighbouring states.
- Given the above discussed reasons, a cyclone of this nature is unusual for April-May cyclones in India.
- Fani is different mainly on account of its place of origin, and the route it has taken.
- Origin – The in situ cyclonic systems in the Bay of Bengal usually originate around latitude 10° N (in line with Chennai).
- Route – Fani was initially headed north-westwards, towards the Tamil Nadu coast.
- But it changed its course midway and moved northeast away from the coastline to reach Odisha.
- The recurve it has taken gave it more time over the sea and has ensured that it has gathered unusual strength.
Europe rejects Iran’s ‘ultimatum’ but stands by nuclear agreement
10, May 2019
Why in news:
- European powers denounced Iran’s threat to resume nuclear work but vowed to save a landmark deal with Tehran despite U.S. pressure.
Details:
- Iran said it would defylimits under the 2015 agreement, and threatened to go further if Europe, China and Russia fail to deliver sanctions relief within 60 days.
- Tehran says it is responding to unilateral U.S. sanctions imposed after President Donald Trump called a “horrible” deal, dealing a severe blow to the Iranian economy.
Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)
- It is informally called as ‘Iran nuclear deal’. It is multilateral nuclear deal signed between Iran and P5 +1 (five permanent members of United Nations Security Council- US, China, France, Russia, and UK), plus Germany and European Union (EU), in Vienna.
- The JCPOA is aimed at preventing Iran from building nuclear weapon, involved lifting of international sanctions in return for Tehran curbing its nuclear programme.
- This plan ensured that Iran will drastically reduce its uranium enriching capacity and levels, enriched stockpiles and centrifuges and will allow for stringent inspection and monitoring by international agencies including International International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
- In exchange for Iran compliance to deal, economic sanctions that had kept Iran away from international banking and the global oil trade were lifted.
- It allowed Iran to make business deals and also unfroze billions of dollars Iran had overseas before multilateral sanctions were imposed on Iran over its nuclear programme.
Why did Iran agree to the deal?
- It had been hit with devastating economic sanctions by the United Nations, United States and the European Union that are estimated to have cost it tens of billions of pounds a year in lost oil export revenues. Billions in overseas assets had also been frozen.
Impact on India
- Energy trade
- Implications in West Asia
- Chabahar port
Barn owls to fight Rodents in Lakshadweep
10, May 2019
Why in news:
- The Union Territory of Lakshadweep have ‘recruited’ three pairs of barn owls from Kerala to fight against the rodents.
Details:
- The owls were chosen from among healthy birds rescued by the Kerala Forest Department.
- The biocontrol measure is spearheaded by the Lakshadweep Administration, with the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) at Kavaratti providing the technical knowhow.
- Coconut is an important money-spinner for the islands, but the pesky rodents account for 30 to 40% of the yield loss. Total production stood at 8.76 crore nuts in 2017-18.
Rodent control
- Rodent pests are especially problematic in terms of agriculture and public health since they can inflict considerable economic damage associated with their abundance, diversity, generalist feeding habits and high reproductive rates.
- To quantify rodent pest impacts and identify trends in rodent pest research impacting on small-holder agriculture in the Afro-Malagasy region we did a systematic review of research outputs from 1910 to 2015, by developing an a priordefined set of criteria to allow for replication of the review process.
ThreemethodsTo combat the menace of the rodents:
- Acute-Toxic
- Low Toxic
- Non-Toxic
Acute-Toxic
- This method is used to control rats in open spaces outside the buildings. This is used against Norway Rats, which generally stay in Nalas and dustbins. The rats die within minutes due to the Phosphine gas released by our chemical. This is very effective against Bandicoots. The disadvantage is we cannot overcome the bait shy character of rats; and bait rotation has to be done very frequently.
Low Toxic:
- This method uses the second-generation anti-coagulants, which are effective after the very first dose. They eliminate the bait-shy among rodents, as the target does not die immediately unlike in the acute toxic method. The rats affected by the Anti-Coagulants come out into the open and die eliminating the risk of stinking.
Non-toxic:
- In this method glue pads, mechanical traps, runway traps etc are used which making it completely safe for people as well as pets.
- a) Second-generation anti-coagulants with bromadiolone 0.25%CB
- b) Low toxic and harmless to other Pests.
- c) Does not include bait shyness
- d) Tends to make rats come out in the open and die.
- e) Non-toxic methods used are : Deploying Glue boards, Snap traps, mechanical traps, runway traps
Endless war: on U.S. putting pressure on Taliban
10, May 2019
Why in news:
- Afghanistan’s Loya Jirga, a grand assembly of senior politicians and tribal and religious leaders had a four-day meeting, for a ceasefire between government troops and the Taliban underscores the mood in Kabul. Afghanistan’s leaderswants to resolve the 17-year-long conflict. The Jirga asked the government to set up a negotiating team with members from the assembly for talks with the insurgents.
Details:
- The Taliban group controls half of Afghanistan and has shown its capacity to strike anywhere, including in the most fortified of locations.
- It has also been engaged in direct talks with the U.S. for months.
- But the peace talks haven’t prevented the Taliban from carrying its offense against the government.
- By rejecting the Loya Jirga proposal, the Taliban has once again made it clear that it is not ready yet to engage with the government in Kabul.
- The U.S. seeks an assurance that Afghanistan will not provide a safe haven to transnational terrorist groups such as al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.
- The government lacks the resources to accomplish either.
- It cannot defeat the Taliban militarily, as the 17 years of the war suggest.
- It cannot forge peace on the Taliban’s terms as it would mean endangering whatever few freedoms the Afghans enjoy right now.
Background:
Afghanistan
- Afghanistan, located in South Asia, is a landlocked country bordered by Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and China.
- Afghanistan has a strategic location and it connected the cultures of the Middle East and other parts of Asia by the Silk Road.
- Much of Afghanistan’s territory covers the Hind Kush range that stretches along Afghanistan-Pakistan border and has been historically a significant sector of Buddhism and acted as a passageway during the invasions of the Indian subcontinent. It is still important during modern era warfare in the nation.
- The 2430km long Durand line, established in 1896, is the international border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. It is described very dangerous from a geopolitical and geostrategic perspective and, lot of insurgency and other related activities has occurred across the porous border for years.
- India-Afghanistan: Security interests
- India faced many security challenges from the Taliban in Afghan during the 1990s.
- Pakistan has raised and supported several militant groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba, Harkat-ul-Mujahideen/Harkat-ul-Ansar, and Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami among others, which operate in India.
- All of these groups have trained in Afghanistan, with varying proximity to the Taliban and by extension al-Qaeda.
- Thus India is absolutely adamant that Afghanistan should not again become a terrorist safe haven.
- Radical ideologies and terrorism spreading in this region are a security threat for India.
- With Pakistan increasing its strategic depth in Afghan, it can reverse the gain of India in Afghan brought through much cost. Pakistan can incubate and move around various anti-India groups in Afghan especially in Loya Paktia.
- The golden crescent comprising of Iran, Afghan, and Pakistan is a worry for India, especially with respect to the issue of drug abuse in Punjab.
- Islamic State is using Afghan as an outpost in Asia as it comes under stress in Iraq and Syria.
Moscow Format
- It was a meeting of world leaders, held in Moscow, Russia, in November 2018, to discuss future of Afghan polity, Taliban’s role in it and the Taliban’s acceptability among world leaders.
- Earlier the meeting was called off due to non-participation of the Afghan government, this time meeting was open also to non-government representatives.
Deliberations took place on a number of issues surrounding the Taliban and its role in Afghanistan. - The Afghan government did not send any officials, but four members of the Kabul-based High Peace Council (HPC) attended the event.
- India was represented in ‘Moscow Format’ by former diplomats non-officially. The choice of delegates allowed India and Afghanistan distance and deniability about the Taliban.
India-Afghanistan: Economic interests
- Afghanistan has a mineral wealth of about $1-3 trillion of Iron ore, Lithium, Chromium, Natural Gas, Petroleum etc.
- Safeguarding Indian investments and personnel in Afghan is utmost important to India as Indian investment in Afghan amounts to about $3bn.
India’s soften stand on Taliban
- India has always been seeking an “Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled” peace process and settlement but as international talks with the Taliban leadership gain momentum India soften its stance.
- Recently Taliban offer dialogue, promising to safeguard India’s investments in Chabahar and promises to protect minorities, including Hindus and Sikhs, in Afghanistan.
- Also, US announced its withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan which made India worried about the prospect of chaos and civil war, akin to the scene after the previous U.S. pullout in the early 1990s that cut India out and brought the Taliban to power in Kabul with Pakistan’s support.
- It is felt that it is time India recognized and negotiated with the Taliban to protect its huge investments
- Geopolitically non-involvement of India in talk with Taliban would consolidate Pakistan’s position in the future of Afghanistan which already has good relations with the Taliban
- World over, Russia and Iran also soften its earlier stand over the Taliban and engage in peace talks
Way forward:
- This resource deficit can be bridged only with the help of the international community. The U.Swhich is in talks with the Taliban, should not overlook the interests of Kabul, It must put pressure on the Taliban to cease hostilities and engage with Mr. Ghani’s government.
BELLANDUR LAKE IS DRYING UP
09, May 2019
Why in News:
- Bellandur Lake, the city’s most polluted waterbody, is drying up. In the past few days, the water level has reduced with the lakebed being visible in some places
Why the lake count has started to decrease?
- The terrain on which Bengaluru is situated allowed for the natural formation of lakes. These lakes, were at one time, the main sources of water for the city.
- The essential nature of lakes to life has even gave rise to development of a sacred practice called Karaga. The
- city has lost an estimated 79% of water bodies and 80% of its tree cover from the baseline year of 1973. As the city grew, it faced a dilemma. If the additional population was to be accommodated, it would require more land. If it decides to protect all its lakes, it must expand far beyond its already extensive boundaries, thereby hurting the interests of farming. In this context, the city chose to hurt the lake beds instead.
What did the state government do?
- Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) is currently the custodian of the water body for its rejuvenation.
- But BDA feels that there is no point in restoring a lake if sewage water is not stopped entering the lake.
- Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board is in charge of diversion of sewage water, which clearly it has not been able to do.
- Meanwhile, the response of the state government too has been piecemeal.
- But without addressing the question of how many lakes a modern city could sustain, they typically will end up with policies that are considered impractical by those who see cities as engines of growth.
U.S. THREATENS TO IMPOSE MORE SANCTIONS ON IRAN
09, May 2019
Why in News:
- USA advises European countries against doing business with Tehran; Russia, China reiterate opposition to punitive steps
Details:
- The U.S. threatened to impose more sanctions on Iran “very soon” and warned Europe against doing business with Tehran via a system of non-dollar trade to circumvent U.S. sanctions.
- It is the time for the community of nations to strongly condemn Iran’s nuclear misconduct and increase pressure on the regime to comply with U.S. demands,” US said, adding that Washington was not “done” with sanctions on Iran. “
Special Purpose Vehicle
- U.S. would move quickly against any attempt by European countries to undermine Washington’s sanctions pressure on Iran
- US advised them against using the so-called Special Purpose Vehicle to facilitate non-dollar trade to get around U.S. sanctions.
- Washington’s European allies opposed Mr. Trump’s decision to withdraw from the agreement and have failed so far to find ways to blunt the economic impact of new U.S. sanctions, which include an all-out effort to block Iran’s oil exports to starve its economy.
- Russia remained committed to the Iran nuclear deal and denounced “unreasonable pressure” that led Tehran to suspend some of its commitments under the agreement.
- China called on all parties to uphold the nuclear pact. “Maintaining and implementing the comprehensive agreement is the shared responsibility of all parties
US-Iran Relations:
- United States and Iran established diplomatic relations in 1883.
- US-Iran wasn’t very complex before World War II, but it soon turned chaotic when the US’s CIA helped stage a coup to overthrow Iranian Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh in 1953. Later after several years the US offered Iran a nuclear reactor and weapons-grade nuclear fuel in 1967
- Once again, the diplomatic crisis erupted in 1988, When a US Navy ship was shot down an Iranian passenger plane, killing 290 people who were onboard.
- Hassan Rouhani was elected president in Iran. US-Iran Nuclear Deal was signed.
- US President Donald Trump pulled the U.S. out of the deal in 2018 and gets ready to impose sanctions over its nuclear program and claims the country is supporting militant groups in the gulf.
TAKING TENSIONS SERIOUSLY: INDIA AND THE U.S.
09, May 2019
Why in News:
- A true strategic partnership remains elusive between India and the U.S.
Details:
- The U.S.’s decision to not extend Iran sanctions waivers, including the one provided to India, has notable implications for India-
- U.S. relations, given the importance of New
- Delhi’s energy relationship with Tehran.
- It comes on the heels of many other deleterious developments for bilateral ties including the U.S.’s decision to withdraw GSP benefits for Indian exports and the Trump administration’s discontent deepening over India’s policies on e-commerce, intellectual property rights and data localisation.
- the non-security dimension of the relationship has long lagged behind the fast-growing defence side. India will scale up oil imports from other top producers; the GSP withdrawal will have minimal impact on India’s economy; the two capitals are working actively on high levels, most recently through the U.S.-India CEO Forum and the India-U.S. Commercial Dialogue, to ease tensions; and above all the strength of the bilateral relationship can easily withstand all these headaches.
- India-U.S. relations extend well beyond security.
- joint statements have dwelt on the potential for cooperation on initiatives ranging from clean energy to innovation. And despite the problems, bilateral trade in goods and services has increased over the last decade
India-USA: Five Pillars of Strategic Partnership
- Strategic Issues
- Energy and Climate
- Change Science and Technology
- Health and Innovation Education and Development
Why the United States matters to India?
- America remains the critical stabilizing force in Asia through its military and diplomatic power projection and commitments to the region
- India will be better able to protect its national interests in Pakistan and Afghanistan in coordination with the United States.
- The United States has also remained one of the top sources of foreign direct investment in India, bringing important managerial expertise, capital, and technology with it to the dynamic Indian market.
CIRCLE OF LIFE: ON ECONOMIC GROWTH FACTORING ECOSYSTEM
09, May 2019
Why in News:
- Biodiversity assessments must be factored into all economic activity
Details:
- The overwhelming message from the global assessment report of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) is that human beings have so rapaciously exploited nature, and that species belonging to a quarter of all studied animal and plant groups on earth are gravely threatened
- If the world continues to pursue the current model of economic growth without factoring in environmental costs, one million species could go extinct, many in a matter of decades Catastrophic erosion of ecosystems is being driven by unsustainable use of land and water, direct harvesting of species, climate change, pollution and release of alien plants and animals in new habitats. there is particular worry over the devastation occurring in tropical areas, which are endowed with greater biodiversity than others; only a quarter of the land worldwide now retains its ecological and evolutionary integrity, largely spared of human impact.
- Nature provides ecosystem services, but these are often not included in productivity estimates: they are vital for food production, for clean air and water, provision of fuel for millions, absorption of carbon in the atmosphere, and climate moderation.
- Expanding agriculture by cutting down forests has raised food volumes, and mining feeds many industries, but these have severely affected other functions such as water availability, pollination, maintenance of wild variants of domesticated plants and climate regulation.
- IPBES assessment points out, marine plastic pollution has increased tenfold since 1980, affecting at least 267 species, including 86% of marine turtles, 44% of seabirds and 43% of marine mammals