16 March 2024 : Daily Current Affairs
Daily Current Affairs
16-March -2024- Top News of the Day
1. New ECs take charge; Supreme Court refuses to stay their appointments
Topic: GS2 – Indian Polity – Constitutional Bodies Important for UPSC as it addresses electoral integrity, democratic principles, and governance transparency within India’s political landscape. |
Context |
● The news is about the appointment of Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu as Election Commissioners amidst controversy over the selection process and alleged lack of transparency. |
Additional information on this news:
- Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu assumed charge as Election Commissioners after being selected by a panel chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
- The Supreme Court declined immediate intervention on a petition urging a stay on their appointments, citing the technicality that legislative enactments are not normally stayed.
- The new Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Act, 2023, replaced the Chief Justice of India with a Cabinet Minister in the selection panel, giving the Union government a dominant role in the appointment process.
- Petitioners, including Association for Democratic Reforms and Congress leader Jaya Thakur, argued that the government’s actions lacked transparency and showed favoritism towards the ruling regime.
- Advocate Prashant Bhushan highlighted suspicions about the selection process, including the government’s advancement of the selection committee meeting and the treatment of the minority member, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury.
- Chowdhury was provided with candidate names only 10 minutes prior to the appointment, violating Section 6 of the 2023 Act.
- Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu filled vacancies left by the sudden resignation of EC Arun Goel and the retirement of EC Anup Chandra Pandey.
Politicization of Election Commission of India |
Issues: ● Allegations of bias: Accusations of favoritism towards certain political parties undermine the EC’s impartiality. ● Lack of transparency: Decision-making processes and criteria for electoral decisions are often opaque, leading to suspicions of manipulation. ●Influence of ruling party: Perceived control or influence by the ruling party can compromise the EC’s autonomy – as seen in recent appointments. ● Delayed action on violations: Slow response to electoral violations diminishes public trust in the EC’s ability to enforce rules effectively. Way Forward: ● Strengthening autonomy: Ensure EC’s independence from political influence through statutory safeguards. ● Transparency measures: Implement mechanisms for public scrutiny of EC’s functioning, including transparent decision-making processes and disclosure of criteria. ● Swift action on violations: Establish expedited procedures for addressing electoral infractions to maintain public confidence. ● Electoral reforms: Introduce reforms to enhance the EC’s credibility, such as state funding of elections and stricter regulation of political financing. ● Public awareness campaigns: Educate citizens about the importance of free and fair elections and their role in holding the EC accountable. ● International oversight: Consider involving international organizations or observers to provide impartial assessment and recommendations for improvement. |
PYQ: Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in the light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct. (UPSC CSE (M) GS-2 2022)(150 Words /10 marks) |
Practice Question: Discuss the challenges faced by the Election Commission of India regarding its autonomy and impartiality in the electoral process. Suggest measures to strengthen its credibility and ensure free and fair elections in the country. (150 Words /10 marks) |
2. Railways plans to develop multi-modal transport hubs
Topic: GS3 – Indian economy – Infrastructure: Railway. Important for UPSC due to its relevance to infrastructure development, urbanization, and governance initiatives like ‘Viksit Bharat’. |
Context |
● The news highlights Indian Railways’ plan to construct mega railway terminals in cities with over 10 lakh population as part of the ‘Viksit Bharat’ initiative. ● The plan focuses on improving passenger experience through enhanced cleanliness and maintenance measures. |
Additional information on this news:
- Indian Railways to establish mega railway terminals in aspirational cities with a population exceeding 10 lakh as part of the ‘Viksit Bharat’ initiative.
- Railway Board seeks suggestions for new locations or stations beyond the identified cities.
- Focus on enhancing passenger experience through cleanliness and maintenance of amenities, especially with the introduction of Vande Bharat Express trains.
- Principal chief mechanical engineers instructed to closely monitor and ensure sustained housekeeping and maintenance activities.
- Emphasis on improving cleanliness levels to enhance passenger experience, with an increase in real-time cleaning efforts.
- Member (Traction & Rolling Stock), Railway Board, orders investigation into incidents affecting train operations and urges implementation of remedial measures.
>Significance of this move
●Infrastructure development: Creation of mega railway terminals enhances transportation infrastructure, facilitating connectivity in aspirational cities and supporting economic growth. ● Urban development: Multi-modal connectivity in cities with over 10 lakh population fosters urbanization by improving access to transportation hubs and promoting development in surrounding areas. ● Economic impact: Improved railway terminals attract investments, spur commercial activities, and create employment opportunities, contributing to local and regional economic development. ●Governance initiative: Aligns with Government’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ initiative, aimed at developing infrastructure and fostering progress in cities across India. ●Passenger experience: Focus on cleanliness and maintenance enhances the travel experience, increasing customer satisfaction and encouraging more people to use rail transportation. ●Efficiency in operations: Enhanced facilities and connectivity streamline operations, reducing congestion, delays, and improving the overall efficiency of the railway network. ●Environmental benefits: Encourages modal shift towards railways, reducing road congestion, carbon emissions, and promoting sustainable transportation solutions. ● Social impact: Provides better access to transportation for residents, including those from marginalized communities, improving social inclusion and mobility. |
PYQ: The setting up of a Rail Tariff Authority to regulate fares will subject the cash strapped Indian Railways to demand subsidy for obligation to operate non-profitable routes and services. Taking into account the experience in the power sector, discuss if the proposed reform is expected to benefit the consumers, the Indian Railways or the private container operators. (200 words/12.5m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-2 2014) |
Practice Question: Discuss the significance of Indian Railways’ initiative to develop mega railway terminals in aspirational cities as part of the ‘Viksit Bharat’ program. How does this initiative contribute to infrastructure development and urbanization in India? (150 Words /10 marks) |
3. Army raises first unit to operate Apache attack helicopters in Jodhpur
Topic: GS3 – Internal Security Crucial for UPSC as it highlights India’s military modernization efforts, bolstering defense capabilities and indigenous production. |
Context |
● The news covers the establishment of the first unit of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters by the Indian Army Aviation Corps at Jodhpur. |
Additional information on this news:
- Indian Army Aviation Corps establishes its first unit at Jodhpur for operating AH-64E Apache attack helicopters.
- The Apaches, to be the second attack helicopters in the Army after indigenous light combat helicopters (LCH).
- The 451 Aviation Squadron formally raised at Jodhpur, with the first batch of three Apaches expected in May and another three in July.
- India signed a deal with Boeing for six more Apaches for the Army, costing around $800 million, with pilot and technician training in the U.S.
- Previous procurement sanctioned 39 AH-64 Apache attack helicopters from the U.S., initially for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
- Decision made to allocate future Apache procurements to the Indian Army, following the induction of 22 Apaches by the IAF.
- While Army seeks 11 more Apaches, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) orders a study on armoured helicopter requirements across Services.
- Defence Acquisition Council approves procurement of 156 LCH at an estimated cost of ₹45,000 crore, with 90 for the Army and 66 for the Air Force.
India – USA Defence Cooperation |
● Strategic partnership: India and the USA have deepened defence cooperation, marked by strategic dialogues and joint military exercises. ● Defense Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI): Facilitates collaboration in defence technology, research, and development, fostering innovation and joint projects. ● Defence agreements: Signing of foundational agreements like the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), Communication Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), and Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement for Geo-Spatial Cooperation (BECA) enhances interoperability and logistics support between the two militaries. ● Defence procurement: India has procured defence equipment worth billions from the USA, including Apache and Chinook helicopters, P-8I maritime surveillance aircraft, and M777 howitzers. ●Counter-terrorism cooperation: Intelligence sharing, capacity building, and joint exercises strengthen counter-terrorism efforts. ●Indo-Pacific cooperation: Both nations advocate for a free and open Indo-Pacific, aligning maritime security interests and ensuring stability in the region. ●Defence trade and investment: Increasing defence trade and investment boosts economic ties and technology transfer, supporting India’s defence modernization goals. ● Strategic dialogues: High-level strategic dialogues and military engagements enhance bilateral relations, addressing regional security challenges and shared interests. |
PYQ: ‘Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad)’ is transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present Smes – Discuss. (250 words/15m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-2 2020) |
Practice Question: Explain the significance of India-USA defence cooperation in bolstering regional security and advancing defence modernization efforts. (250 Words /15 marks) |
4. The long, bumpy road from ‘drone didis’ to ‘lakhpati didis.
Topic: GS3 – Agriculture – Technology Missions Crucial for UPSC as it reflects on agricultural modernization, gender empowerment, and challenges in policy implementation. |
Context |
● The news discusses the challenges faced by farmers in utilizing drones for agricultural operations amidst protests, alongside government initiatives and implementation hurdles. |
Introduction:
- Introduction of drones in agricultural operations, particularly in pesticide spraying, amidst ongoing protests along the Punjab-Haryana border.
Deployment of Drones and Challenges Faced:
- Farmers equipped with drones for spraying liquid pesticide over wheat crops faced challenges due to internet shutdowns hindering drone operations.
- February, crucial for spraying nano urea, suffered delays, causing financial losses for farmers.
Namo Drone Didi Scheme:
- Initiated by the Central government, aimed at training women from rural self-help groups (SHGs) to operate agricultural drones for spraying fertilizers.
- Prime Minister announced engagement of 15,000 women, with an outlay of ₹1,261 crore, for drone operations.
Implementation and Challenges:
- Despite the announcement, exact modalities and future roadmaps remain unclear.
- Training and equipment costs borne by fertilizer companies, with major support from IFFCO and CIL.
Influencer Marketing and Subsidy:
- Haryana government promises ₹400 per acre for drone spraying services, a unique offering compared to other states.
- Farmers enroll through online portals, receiving nano urea at subsidized rates and availing drone spraying services.
Impact on Farmers and Agricultural Practices:
- Farmers faced difficulties in accessing drone services due to limited availability and inefficiencies in execution.
- Economic challenges persist, with farmers preferring manual methods due to affordability concerns.
Challenges Faced by Women Drone Operators:
- Women drone operators encounter safety concerns and operational challenges, including the need for assistance in field operations.
- Despite large earnings potential on paper, operational costs and uncertainties about future earnings raise concerns.
Transition from Granular to Liquid Urea:
- Government aims to increase production of liquid nano urea to reduce dependence on costly granular urea imports.
- Challenges remain in adoption due to limitations in effectiveness and application methods.
Policy Implementation and Ownership Issues:
- Lack of clarity on ownership of drones and distribution of earnings among individuals, SHGs, and other organizations.
- Proposal for drone procurement under Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) raised, highlighting potential competition with private drone operators.
Conclusion:
- Despite government initiatives like the Namo Drone Didi scheme, challenges persist in the effective deployment and adoption of agricultural drones, highlighting the need for clearer policies and sustainable solutions.
PYQ: Consider the following activities: 1. Spraying pesticides on a crop field 2. Inspecting the craters of active volcanoes 3. Collecting breath samples from spouting whales for DNA analysis At the present level of technology, which of the above activities can be successfully carried out by using drones? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer: D |
Practice Question: Discuss the challenges and opportunities of integrating drones in agricultural operations and policy implementation hurdles with reference to drone didi scheme. (250 Words /15 marks) |
5. India’s ART-CI Initiative Revolutionizes Monsoon Research with Advanced Atmospheric Testing Facility
Topic: GS3 – Science & Technology – Achievements of Indian S&T; Indigenization of technology GS1– Geography This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains in the context of understanding initiatives like ART-CI. |
Context: |
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More about the news:
Understanding Atmospheric Research Testbed (ART):
- ART is conceptualized as an open-field observational and analytical research program focusing on meteorological phenomena.
- It facilitates ground-based observations of weather parameters and on-site monitoring of transient synoptic systems, particularly during the southwest monsoon season from June to September.
- Developed by the Ministry of Earth Sciences and operated by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, ART aims to enhance understanding of monsoon dynamics and improve rainfall forecasts.
Significance of Monsoon Core Zone (MCZ):
- The MCZ holds paramount importance in India’s agricultural landscape, encompassing regions crucial for rain-fed agriculture.
- The southwest monsoon season, which contributes 70% of the country’s annual average rainfall and drives Kharif cultivation, heavily relies on the performance of rain-bearing atmospheric systems originating in the Bay of Bengal.
- Central India serves as a natural laboratory for studying these monsoonal patterns due to its direct exposure to major rain-bearing synoptic systems and relatively low levels of pollutants.
Objectives and Functionality of ART:
- The primary objective of ART is to bridge the gap in understanding the role of synoptic systems and associated cloud physics in influencing monsoon rainfall, especially in the context of climate change-induced erratic rainfall patterns.
- Through long-term observations on cloud microphysics, precipitation, convection, and land-surface properties, scientists aim to generate valuable data for assimilation into numerical weather models.
- This data-driven approach holds promise in enhancing rainfall forecasts, thereby aiding agricultural planning and mitigating risks for farmers.
Conclusion:
- The establishment of ART-CI represents a significant stride in India’s atmospheric research endeavors, particularly in understanding the complexities of monsoon dynamics.
- By leveraging cutting-edge technology and focused observational research, ART-CI holds the potential to contribute significantly to weather forecasting accuracy, benefiting agricultural practices and enhancing disaster preparedness in the face of changing climatic patterns.
Why was Silkheda in Sehore district chosen for its establishment? |
1. India receives about 70% of its annual rainfall during the June to September southwest monsoon season. 2. The rainfall is sustained by the interaction between southwest monsoon winds and westward-moving low-pressure systems or depressions. 3. Agriculture in the central Indian regions, spanning from Gujarat to West Bengal, relies heavily on this rain. 4. Silkheda in Sehore is strategically located in the path of rain-bearing systems, making it perfect for studying their characteristics and cloud properties. |
Practice Question: Discuss the significance of the Atmospheric Research Testbed in Central India (ART-CI). How does ART-CI contribute to India’s scientific research landscape, and what are the broader implications of such initiatives for sustainable development and climate resilience? (250 words/15 m) |
6. Report Reveals Presence of Thousands of Undisclosed Chemicals in Plastics, Raising Concerns over Human Health and Environmental Safety
Topic: GS3 – Environment – Environmental pollution and degradation This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains in the context of understanding the environmental impact of plastics and the chemicals they contain. |
Context: |
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More about the news:
Extent of Chemicals in Plastics:
- Contrary to earlier estimates by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) identifying approximately 13,000 plastic chemicals, the report identifies over 16,000 chemicals in plastics.
- Alarmingly, a quarter of these chemicals are believed to pose risks to human health and the environment, highlighting the magnitude of the issue at hand.
- Experts of the Food Packaging Forum underscores the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that many of these chemicals have been linked to adverse health outcomes, including fertility issues and cardiovascular diseases.
Implications for Human Health and Environment:
- Experts underscores the widespread presence of these chemicals in daily-use plastic products.
- This ubiquitous exposure raises concerns about the potential health impacts on individuals, as the cumulative effect of exposure to numerous chemicals remains largely unknown.
- Moreover, the report underscores the urgent need to address the risks associated with these chemicals, emphasizing the inadequacy of solely focusing on plastic waste management without addressing the underlying issue of chemical hazards.
Challenges and Industry Response:
- While the plastics industry advocates for global treaties promoting recycling and re-use of plastic, the report cautions against viewing waste management measures as a panacea for addressing chemical risks.
- Merely addressing plastic waste does not adequately safeguard human health, necessitating a comprehensive approach to address the proliferation of hazardous chemicals in plastics.
- This underscores the need for robust regulatory frameworks and stringent quality standards to mitigate the risks posed by these chemicals to both human health and the environment.
Conclusion:
- The findings of the report underscore the pressing need for concerted action to address the proliferation of chemicals in plastics and mitigate their adverse impacts on human health and the environment.
- Efforts to enhance regulatory oversight, promote sustainable alternatives, and raise awareness among consumers are imperative to safeguard public health and environmental integrity in the face of this emerging challenge posed by plastic chemicals.
Plastic Waste in India: |
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PYQ: Why is there a great concern about the ‘microbeads’ that are released into environment? (2019)
(a) They are considered harmful to marine ecosystems.
(b) They are considered to cause skin cancer in children.
(c) They are small enough to be absorbed by crop plants in irrigated fields.
(d) They are often found to be used as food adulterants.
Ans: (a)
Practice Question: Discuss the recent findings of European scientists regarding the presence of thousands of previously unidentified chemicals in plastics and their implications for environmental pollution. How can regulatory interventions and public awareness campaigns mitigate the risks associated with plastic chemicals and promote sustainable alternatives? (250 words/15 m) |
7. India’s Gaganyaan Mission: A Giant Leap Towards Technological Independence and Global Space Leadership
Topic: GS3 – Science & Technology – Developing new technology-Space This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains in the context of knowing facts about the Gaganyaan Mission which represents a milestone in India’s space exploration endeavors and reflects the country’s advancements in space technology. |
Context: |
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More about the news:
Stake in Space Technologies:
- The renewed interest in space exploration, particularly with endeavors such as returning to the Moon for resource extraction and establishing colonies, underscores the growing importance of human spaceflight missions.
- Participation in these missions not only provides access to rights, resources, and new technologies but also fosters expertise and opportunities for technological advancements.
- Furthermore, India aims to gain control over critical technologies essential for future economic growth, thereby positioning itself as a key player in the global space arena.
Mitigating Technology Denial:
- India’s pursuit of a human spaceflight program is driven, in part, by the need to mitigate past experiences of technology denial by other countries. Instances such as the denial of cryogenic technology in the 1990s and restrictions on critical technologies post-nuclear tests highlight the vulnerabilities of dependency on foreign technologies.
- By establishing indigenous capabilities in space technologies, India seeks to safeguard its interests and reduce reliance on external sources, thereby ensuring technological independence.
Government Initiatives and New Projects:
- In response to past challenges and to bolster indigenous capabilities, the Indian government has embarked on various initiatives aimed at promoting domestic research, development, and manufacturing of advanced technologies.
- Recent announcements regarding missions on green hydrogen, quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and deep-tech underscore the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and self-reliance across strategic sectors.
- Additionally, measures such as providing long-term low-cost loans for research and development and incentivizing the establishment of manufacturing facilities reflect efforts to strengthen the country’s technological infrastructure.
Challenges and Structural Reforms:
- Despite commendable initiatives, the scientific community emphasizes the need for sustained attention and engagement to address structural issues in science education and research.
- India’s performance in research indicators remains subpar, and existing resources may not suffice to propel the country toward technological prowess.
- To achieve meaningful progress, comprehensive reforms in science education, research funding, and infrastructure development are essential, ensuring that India realizes its potential as a technology powerhouse.
Conclusion:
- India’s pursuit of the Gaganyaan Mission and advanced space programs underscores its ambition to establish itself as a prominent player in the global space arena.
- Beyond scientific exploration, these endeavors hold the key to technological independence, economic growth, and national security.
- However, addressing structural challenges and fostering a conducive environment for research and innovation are imperative to realize India’s aspirations of becoming a leading force in space exploration and technological innovation.
Potential Benefits of Gaganyaan Mission: Fostering Innovation, Growth, and Collaboration |
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PYQ: Discuss India’s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology helped India in its socio-economic development? (200 words/12.5 Marks) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-3 2016) |
Practice Question: Discuss the significance of India’s Gaganyaan Mission in the context of advancing the country’s space exploration endeavors and enhancing its technological capabilities. Evaluate the measures needed to ensure India’s leadership in space exploration while fostering self-reliance in critical technologies. (250 words/15 m) |
8. Supreme Court Issues Notice to State Bank of India Over Non-Disclosure of Electoral Bond Numbers
Topic: GS2 – Governance – Important aspects of governance: Transparency and accountability This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains in the context of understanding the legal and regulatory framework surrounding political funding and electoral processes. |
Context: |
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More about the news:
Background of the Case:
- The Constitution Bench, comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and other justices, was hearing an ECI application seeking the return of bond data deposited with the Supreme Court Registry following two interim orders dated April 12, 2019, and November 2, 2023.
- The ECI stated that it had not retained a copy of the data and would upload it on its website once returned by the court.
CJI’s Observations and Solicitor General’s Response:
- Chief Justice DY Chandrachud noted that the SBI had not disclosed the bond numbers to the ECI as directed by the court.
- He emphasized the need for full disclosure of all details related to the bonds, including the purchaser, amount, date of purchase, and bond numbers.
- Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the government, acknowledged that the SBI had moved an application seeking more time but clarified that he was not appearing on behalf of the bank.
Notice Issued to State Bank of India:
- The Bench issued a notice to the SBI, directing the Registry to ensure its appearance before the court.
- Expressing dissatisfaction over the non-disclosure of bond numbers, the Bench reiterated the duty-bound obligation of the SBI to furnish all details.
- Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal emphasized the inclusive nature of the court’s order, which should encompass all relevant details related to the electoral bonds.
Conclusion:
- The Supreme Court’s issuance of notice to the SBI underscores the importance of full disclosure and compliance with court directives regarding electoral bonds.
- The case highlights the significance of transparency and accountability in political funding, as mandated by the judiciary, and reinforces the role of regulatory bodies in ensuring fair electoral practices.
Practice Question: Discuss the recent scrutiny by the Supreme Court over the non-disclosure of electoral bond numbers by the State Bank of India (SBI) and its implications for transparency and accountability in political funding in India. How does this development reflect on the role of regulatory bodies and the judiciary in ensuring fair electoral practices? (250 words/15 m) |
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