18 March 2025 : Daily Current Affairs

1. Why are electoral reforms necessary?

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 10)

Issues in the Voting and Counting Process

1. Paper Ballot Demand: A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) sought a return to paper ballots, but the Supreme Court dismissed this in April 2024.
2. 100% VVPAT-EVM Matching: A demand for full VVPAT verification was rejected, but the Supreme Court allowed burnt memory verification of 5% of EVMs in suspicious cases.
3. Electoral Roll Manipulation Allegations: Opposition parties claim fake voters were added in recent assembly elections.
4. Duplicate EPIC Numbers: Some voters in different States share the same EPIC number, likely due to past decentralization before the ERONET platform.

Issues in the Election Campaign Process

1. Inappropriate Campaigning: Some political leaders use abusive language, appeal to caste or communal identities, and make false claims.
2. Excessive Election Spending: Candidates exceed legal spending limits, and there is no cap on political party spending. The 2024 Lok Sabha elections saw an estimated ₹1,00,000 crore in spending.
3. Criminalization of Politics: In 2024, 46% (251 MPs out of 543) had criminal cases, with 31% (170 MPs) facing serious charges like murder and kidnapping.

Proposed Reforms in the Election Process

1. EVM and VVPAT Improvements
   1. Sample size for EVM-VVPAT matching should be scientifically determined at the regional level.
   1. If any mismatch is found, all VVPAT slips for that region should be counted.
   1. ‘Totaliser’ machines should be introduced to aggregate votes across multiple EVMs before revealing individual candidate counts.
2. Addressing Electoral Roll Issues
   1. Linking Aadhaar with EPIC numbers can be considered after privacy concerns are addressed.
   1. The EC should eliminate duplicate voter IDs across States.

Proposed Reforms in the Election Campaign Process

1. Regulating Star Campaigners
   1. The EC should have the power to revoke a leader’s ‘Star Campaigner’ status if they violate the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).
   1. Political parties should face strict penalties under Paragraph 16A of the Symbols Order for repeated violations.
2. Controlling Election Expenditure
   1. The law should ensure that financial aid given by a political party to a candidate is counted within the candidate’s spending limit.
   1. A ceiling should be placed on overall political party expenditure.
3. Tackling Criminalization of Politics
   1. Candidates and parties must publicly disclose criminal records at least three times before elections through widely circulated newspapers and electronic media.

Conclusion

• Free and fair elections are part of the basic structure of the Constitution.
• Meaningful discussions between the EC and political parties are essential to restoring public confidence in the electoral process.

2. India and New Zealand to institutionalise defence, security ties, says Modi

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 1)

Defence and Maritime Cooperation

• India and New Zealand agreed to strengthen and institutionalize their defence collaboration.
• They will enhance joint exercises, training, and port visits.
• A roadmap for bilateral defence industry collaboration will be developed.
• Both navies are working together in the Combined Task Force-150 to ensure maritime security in the Indian Ocean.

Trade and Economic Cooperation

• The two countries have started discussions on a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
• The agreement aims to boost bilateral trade and investment.
• Key sectors for cooperation include dairy, food processing, and pharmaceuticals.

Counter-Terrorism and Security Concerns

• India and New Zealand reaffirmed their commitment to counter global terrorism.
• The leaders referred to past terror attacks, including the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the 2019 Christchurch attacks.
• India raised concerns over pro-Khalistan activities in New Zealand, emphasizing the misuse of freedom of speech to glorify terrorism.
• New Zealand acknowledged India’s concerns and assured cooperation.

Diplomatic and Community Engagement

• New Zealand announced plans to expand its diplomatic presence in India by over 60%.
• The Indian community in New Zealand is the third-largest ethnic group and a major contributor to the country’s economy.
• Both countries will celebrate 100 years of sporting relations in 2026.

3. India and New Zealand Sign Defence Pact, Agree to Boost Trade and Maritime Security

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Cover Page, Page – 01)

Analysis of the news:

1. Defence and Security Partnership

India and New Zealand signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation to strengthen bilateral defence ties. The agreement aims to:

• Institutionalize regular defence engagement.
• Enhance maritime security and ensure the safety of sea lanes of communication.
• Promote defence industry cooperation through a structured roadmap.
   New Zealand welcomed India’s participation in the Combined Maritime Forces and highlighted cooperation during the New Zealand command of Command Task Force 150.

2. Indo-Pacific Strategy and Regional Security

Both nations emphasized their commitment to a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific amid growing tensions with China.

• Modi indirectly referred to China’s expansionism, asserting a policy of development over expansionism.
• New Zealand reaffirmed its commitment to stability and the rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific.

3. Counterterrorism and Security Concerns

The leaders condemned terrorism and stressed the need for global action against terror networks:

• Cited the Christchurch (2019) and Mumbai (2008) attacks as examples of the global threat of terrorism.
• Modi raised concerns over anti-India activities by illegal elements in New Zealand.
• Both sides agreed to cooperate on disrupting terror financing and dismantling infrastructure.

4. Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Negotiations

India and New Zealand decided to initiate negotiations for a mutually beneficial FTA to expand trade and investment:

• Trade value in 2023-24: $1.75 billion (New Zealand exports: $0.84B; India exports: $0.91B).
• Key trade items:
  • New Zealand to India: Wool, iron and steel, fruit, nuts, aluminium.
  • India to New Zealand: Pharmaceuticals, machinery, textiles, pearls, precious stones.
• The FTA aims to address trade barriers and increase bilateral economic integration.

5. Migration and Skilled Worker Mobility

India and New Zealand agreed to work on an agreement to:

• Address issues related to illegal migration.
• Ease the mobility of skilled workers.
• Modi acknowledged the positive contribution of the Indian diaspora, which represents the third-largest ethnic group in New Zealand and the largest source of skilled migrants.

6. Cultural and Historical Ties

The leaders recalled the shared history of military cooperation and cultural ties:

• Acknowledged the sacrifices of Indian and New Zealand service personnel in global conflicts.
• Highlighted recent naval visits, including the Indian naval vessel Tarini’s port call in Christchurch and the upcoming visit of HMNZS Te Kaha to Mumbai.

7. Strategic Significance

The agreement reflects India’s growing strategic outreach in the Indo-Pacific and strengthens ties with a Five Eyes partner, reinforcing India’s position in global security and trade frameworks.

Conclusion

• The India-New Zealand defence pact marks a strategic step towards strengthening bilateral security, enhancing maritime cooperation, and deepening economic ties through a proposed free trade agreement, reflecting growing alignment in the Indo-Pacific region.

Prelims Facts

1. National Quantum Mission: India’s Quantum Leap

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2111953 )

What is Quantum Computing?

• Quantum computers use qubits instead of regular bits, allowing them to be in multiple states at once (0 and 1 simultaneously).
• This ability makes quantum computing significantly more powerful than traditional computing.
• NQM aims to leverage quantum technology to impact healthcare, clean energy, climate change, and job creation.

Objectives of NQM

Implementation Strategy: Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs)

• Four T-Hubs have been established across India, involving 14 Technical Groups, 17 states, and 2 Union Territories.
• These hubs drive technology innovation, skill development, entrepreneurship, and industry partnerships.
• They follow a Hub-Spoke-Spike model, which enhances collaboration among research institutions.

Global Impact and Strategic Importance

• NQM will help India compete globally in quantum technology.
• It will benefit sectors like telecommunications, healthcare, finance, and energy.
• The mission aligns with national initiatives like Digital India, Make in India, Start-up India, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Conclusion

• The National Quantum Mission is a transformative step toward making India a leader in quantum technology.
• With significant investments and research collaborations, it will drive innovation, economic growth, and national security.
• NQM ensures India is prepared for the quantum future, securing its position in the evolving global technological landscape.

2. SC to examine petition on CAG appointment process

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 6)

Process for Appointment of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India

• Authority of Appointment: The CAG is appointed by the President of India under Article 148 of the Constitution.
• Sole Discretion of Executive: The appointment is made solely by the Central Government without any consultation with other institutions.
• Eligibility Criteria: There are no specific qualifications mentioned in the Constitution, but typically, senior bureaucrats from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) or Indian Audit and Accounts Service (IAAS) are considered.
• Term and Removal:
  • The CAG serves for six years or until attaining the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
  • Removal is similar to that of a Supreme Court judge, requiring a special majority in Parliament on grounds of proven misbehavior or incapacity.
• Oath of Office: Administered by the President before assuming office.
• Independence and Role: Acts as an independent auditor for the financial accountability of the government.

3. How climate change is affecting India’s wheat production cycle

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)

Impact of Climate Change on India’s Wheat Production Cycle

1. Rising Temperatures and Heat Waves

• India recorded its warmest February in 124 years, leading to concerns about wheat production.
• Above-normal temperatures in March coincide with the wheat harvest season, affecting grain quality and yield.

2. Impact on Growth Stages

• Vegetative to reproductive stage: High temperatures cause early flowering, reducing the grain-filling period.
• Grain filling stage: Heat stress lowers starch accumulation, resulting in lighter grains and poor milling quality.

3. Delayed Sowing Due to Monsoon Shifts

• A warming Indian Ocean alters monsoon patterns, delaying kharif crop harvest and rabi sowing.
• Late sowing leads to crop maturity during early heat waves, impacting yields.

4. Lower Productivity and Economic Consequences

• Heat stress reduces grain weight, leading to lower market prices for farmers.
• Farmers may resort to excessive fertilizer and pesticide use, increasing costs and environmental damage.

5. Adaptation and Mitigation Measures

• Need for heat-resistant wheat varieties, early sowing strategies, and improved weather monitoring.
• Policies should support financial compensation, crop insurance, and sustainable resource management.

4. Water Sprays, Not Lightning, May Have Sparked Life on Earth: New Study Challenges Miller-Urey Hypothesis

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained, Page – 15)

Analysis of the news:

The Miller-Urey Hypothesis

• The Miller-Urey hypothesis, proposed in 1952 by Stanley Miller and Harold Urey, suggests that life on Earth began through a lightning strike that triggered chemical reactions in the early Earth’s atmosphere.
• Their experiment demonstrated that applying electricity to a mixture of water, methane, ammonia, and hydrogen could produce organic compounds like amino acids—key building blocks of life.
• While groundbreaking, the hypothesis faced criticism over the years due to doubts about the frequency of lightning strikes and the rapid dispersion of organic compounds in open oceans.

Findings of the New Study

• A new study published in Science Advances challenges the Miller-Urey hypothesis by suggesting that life could have emerged from water sprays rather than lightning.
• Led by Stanford University chemist Richard Zare, the study showed that when water droplets split, they develop opposite charges—larger droplets carry positive charges, while smaller ones carry negative charges.
• When these charged droplets come close, tiny sparks, termed “microlightning,” are produced, mimicking lightning formation in clouds.

Chemical Reactions from Water Spray

• The researchers demonstrated that spraying water into a mixture of nitrogen, methane, carbon dioxide, and ammonia produced organic compounds like hydrogen cyanide, glycine, and uracil.
• These compounds are essential for life, indicating that crashing waterfalls, breaking waves, or even splashes against rocks could have generated the conditions needed for life to emerge—without relying on external lightning.

Significance of the Study

• This discovery suggests that microlightning from water sprays could have been a more consistent and widespread source of organic compound formation than lightning strikes, offering a more plausible explanation for the origin of life on early Earth.

5. ISRO Achieves Historic Docking and Undocking Capability, Joining Elite Space Powers

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained, Page – 15)

Analysis of the news:

                                                                                                                              What is Space Docking?

Space docking involves bringing two fast-moving spacecraft into the same orbit, gradually closing the distance between them, and finally connecting them. It is a complex process requiring precise coordination and control.

• ISRO’s Spadex Mission:
  • Launched on December 30, 2024.
  • Included two 220-kg satellites (SDX01 – Chaser and SDX02 – Target) in a 470 km orbit.
  • Satellites started at a 20 km distance and were progressively brought together and docked using an androgynous docking system (similar to the ISS).
  • Demonstrated power sharing and single-unit control after docking.

Importance of Docking and Undocking Capabilities

1. Future Heavy Missions:
   
   
   1. Large spacecraft cannot be launched in a single mission due to weight limitations.
   1. Docking allows assembling heavy spacecraft in orbit, similar to how the ISS was built.
2. Human Spaceflight and Resupply:
   
   
   1. Essential for transporting astronauts and supplies to future space stations.
3. Ambitious Future Missions:
   
   
   1. India plans to build its own space station by 2035 and send a human to the Moon by 2040.
   1. Chandrayaan-4’s planned lunar sample return mission will depend on docking capability.

Historical Context

• First Docking:
  
  
  • Achieved by the US during the Gemini VIII mission (1966) under Neil Armstrong’s command.
• First Autonomous Docking:
  
  
  • USSR achieved the first unmanned docking between Kosmos 186 and Kosmos 188 in 1967.
• China:
  
  
  • Demonstrated unmanned docking in 2011 and crewed docking in 2012.

6. Indian Researchers Identify Genetic Cause for Early Lung Cancer Relapse

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Express Network, Page – 12)

Analysis of the news:

                                                                                                                                                            Discovery and Its Significance

• The study focused on mutations in Tumour Suppressor Genes (TSGs) alongside the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) gene, which is known to drive cancer growth.

Key Findings

• The study analyzed data from 483 lung cancer patients with EGFR mutations and found that those with additional TSG mutations had significantly shorter survival rates.
• Patients with both EGFR and TSG mutations had an average overall survival of 51.11 months compared to 99.3 months for those without TSG mutations.
• Progression-free survival was also shorter, indicating faster relapse.

Mechanism of Resistance

• The research showed that mutations in 17 key TSGs drive resistance to EGFR-targeted treatments.
• Genetic sequencing of tumor samples before and after relapse confirmed that these mutations became more dominant over time, explaining the early relapse.

Role of Liquid Biopsy

• The study used liquid biopsy, which detects cancer-related DNA fragments in the blood, to track genetic changes during treatment.
• This allowed researchers to monitor tumor evolution and identify mutations contributing to drug resistance.

Implications for Treatment

• Identifying TSG mutations early can help doctors adjust treatment strategies, potentially improving survival rates.
• Targeted combination therapies may be developed to overcome resistance and delay relapse.

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