19 July 2024 : Daily Current Affairs

1. The Uncelebrated Revolution: How Maize Transformed India’s Agricultural Landscape

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 14)

Topic: GS3 – Agriculture

Context:

The Green Revolution made India self-sufficient in wheat and rice, thanks to high-yielding varieties developed by institutions like CIMMYT and IARI, under the leadership of scientists like Norman Borlaug and M.S. Swaminathan. However, another significant but less celebrated revolution has occurred in maize production.

Analysis of News:  

Maize Production Growth

• Between 1999-2000 and 2023-24, India’s maize output more than tripled, from 11.5 million tonnes (mt) to over 35 mt, with average per-hectare yields rising from 1.8 to 3.3 tonnes.
• Unlike rice and wheat, only a fifth of maize production is used for direct human consumption.
• Around 60% is used as feed for poultry and livestock, indirectly consumed in the form of chicken, eggs, or milk.

Diverse Uses of Maize

• Besides food and feed, 14-15% of maize is utilized for industrial purposes, owing to its high starch content.
• Maize starch finds applications in textiles, paper, pharmaceuticals, food, and beverages.
• Recently, maize has also become a feedstock for ethanol production, especially during the sugarcane off-season.
• The focus on maize for ethanol has intensified after the government stopped using surplus rice due to concerns over depleting stocks and food security.

Innovations in Maize Varieties

• IARI has developed India’s first “waxy” maize hybrid, with high amylopectin starch content, making it better suited for ethanol production.
• This hybrid has a starch recovery rate of 68-70%, compared to 58-62% for normal maize.
• The hybrid, named Pusa Waxy Maize Hybrid-1, has an average grain yield of 7.3 tonnes per hectare and a potential of 8.8 tonnes.
• IARI has partnered with the UP Distillers’ Association for field trials, indicating significant advancements in maize breeding.

Advances in Maize Breeding Techniques

• CIMMYT has established a maize doubled haploid (DH) facility in Karnataka, which produces 100% homozygous and genetically pure inbred lines.
• This technology accelerates the breeding process, creating uniform lines after just two cropping cycles, thus improving the efficiency of maize breeding.
• The facility has produced and shared 29,622 maize DH lines, focusing on high-yielding, drought-tolerant, heat-tolerant, and pest-resistant varieties.

Role of the Private Sector

• Unlike wheat and rice, where high-yielding varieties were mostly bred by public sector research organizations, maize has seen significant involvement from the private sector.
• Over 80% of the maize area in India is planted with private sector-bred hybrids.
• These hybrids offer higher yields from crossing genetically dissimilar inbred plants, but the yields are limited to the first generation.
• CIMMYT collaborates with both public institutions and private seed companies, such as Mahyco, Shriram Bioseed, and Advanta Seeds, to share improved inbred lines.

Conclusion

• The revolution in maize production has been a significant yet underappreciated development in Indian agriculture.
• With advancements in breeding techniques and the involvement of the private sector, maize has become a crucial crop for food, feed, industrial uses, and ethanol production.
• The continued focus on innovation and collaboration is essential to sustaining and enhancing this growth trajectory.

Background of Green Revolution in India

In 1943, India suffered from the world’s worst recorded food crisis; the Bengal Famine, which led to the death of approximately 4 million people in eastern India due to hunger. Even after independence in 1947, until 1967 the government largely concentrated on expanding the farming areas. But the population was growing at a much faster rate than food production. This called for an immediate and drastic action to increase yield. The action came in the form of the Green Revolution. The green revolution in India refers to a period when Indian Agriculture was converted into an industrial system due to the adoption of modern methods and technology such as the use of HYV seeds, tractors, irrigation facilities, pesticides and fertilizers. It was funded by the US and the Indian Government and the Ford and Rockefeller Foundation. The Green Revolution in India is largely the Wheat Revolution as the wheat production increased by more than three times between 1967-68 and 2003-04, while the overall increase in the production of cereals was only two times

Practice Question:  Examine the growth and significance of maize production in India since the turn of the century. Discuss the role of public and private sectors in this development and the implications for food security, livestock feed, and industrial applications. (250 words)

2. Assam Government to Repeal 1935 Muslim Marriage Act, Proposes New Legislation

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Express Network; Page: 07)

Topic: GS2 – Polity

Context:

The Assam government is set to repeal the Assam Muslim Marriage and Divorce Registration Act of 1935 during the upcoming Monsoon Session of the Assembly. This decision, initiated earlier in the year, aims to reform the legal framework governing Muslim marriages and divorces in the state.

Analysis of News:   

What is the Assam Muslim Marriage and Divorce Registration Act, 1935?

• The Act is in line with the Muslim Personal Law, enacted in 1935. The Act lays down the process for registration of Muslim marriages and divorces.
• A 2010 amendment replaced the word ‘voluntary’ in the original Act with ‘compulsory’, making registration of Muslim marriages and divorces compulsory in the state of Assam.
• The Act authorises the state to grant licences to “any person, being a Muslim” to register marriages and divorces, with Muslim registrars deemed to be public servants.
• It lays down the process through which marriage and divorce applications can be made to the registrar, and the process for their registration.

What are the Reasons Behind the Repealing of Assam Muslim Marriage and Divorce Registration Act of 1935?

Alignment with Contemporary Norms:

• The Act was viewed as outdated and not in line with modern societal norms. It allowed for the registration of marriages if the bride and groom had not reached the legal marriageable age of 18 and 21, respectively, which contradicted current legal standards regarding marriageable age.

Crackdown on Child Marriage:

• The government-linked this decision to its ongoing efforts to combat child marriage. By repealing the Act, which contained provisions allowing underage marriages to be registered, the government aims to eradicate child marriage in Assam.

Informal and Misuse of Authority:

• The act provided an informal mechanism for marriage registration, which led to potential misuse by kazis (government-registered officials responsible for conducting marriages).
• There were allegations of underage marriages and divorces being facilitated without proper grounds, highlighting the need for reform.

Move towards Uniform Civil Code (UCC):

• The decision to repeal the Act is also seen as a step towards implementing a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Assam, similar to the recent move by Uttarakhand.
• The government aims to streamline marriage laws across different communities and bring them under a common legal framework.

Conclusion

• The repeal of the Assam Muslim Marriage and Divorce Registration Act of 1935 reflects the Assam government’s commitment to reforming marriage laws to prevent child marriages and ensure that all marriages meet legal age requirements.
• The introduction of alternative registration methods and potential new legislation demonstrates a proactive approach to adapting the legal framework to contemporary needs while respecting the cultural and religious practices of the Muslim community in Assam.

What are the Arguments Against the Repeal of the Act?

The Act provided a simple and decentralised process for marriage registration (with 94 kazis spread across the state), whereas, there are complexities of the Special Marriage Act, which may deter some individuals, particularly the poor and illiterate, from registering their marriages. The Act faced criticism and legal challenges from various quarters, including advocates and political parties.Concerns were raised about the implications of complete repeal, including the likelihood of increased instances of unregistered marriages.

PYQ: Which Article of the Constitution of India safeguards one’s right to marry the person of one’s choice? (2019)   (a) Article 19 (b) Article 21 (c) Article 25 (d) Article 29   Ans: (b)

Practice Question:  Discuss the implications of the Assam government’s decision to repeal the Assam Muslim Marriage and Divorce Registration Act of 1935. How might this affect the registration of marriages and divorces in the state, and what are the potential legal and social outcomes of introducing new legislation to govern Muslim marriages? (250 words/15 m)

3. Time to make climate part of green impact reports

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

Topic: GS3 – Environment –  Environmental pollution and degradation

Context

The impact of climate change on human health is escalating, with extreme weather events causing severe health and environmental consequences. Public interest litigation in India seeks to include climate change considerations in Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), advocating for robust legislation to mitigate climate impacts and protect vulnerable populations.

Increasing Extremes of Weather

• Recent years have witnessed extreme weather patterns, including severe heat, humidity, storms, and cold winters.
• Climate change is impacting human health through various channels such as extreme temperatures, flooding, and other environmental changes.

Health Implications

• According to the World Health Organization, climate change threatens essential elements of good health, including clean air, safe drinking water, nutritious food, and adequate shelter.
• The World Health Organization estimates that climate change could lead to approximately 250,000 additional deaths per year from 2030 to 2050 due to malnutrition, malaria, diarrhoea, and heat stress.
• The direct health costs are projected to be between $2 and $4 billion annually by 2030.
• Regions with inadequate health infrastructure, often developing countries, will struggle to manage these impacts without significant support.

Vulnerable Populations

• The World Bank highlights that climate change will exacerbate health and well-being issues globally.
• Vulnerable groups including women, children, the elderly, ethnic minorities, individuals with pre-existing health conditions, and those living in poverty are at higher risk.
• A study in India found that working in extreme heat can significantly increase the risk of stillbirth and miscarriage among pregnant women, indicating the severe health impacts previously underestimated.

Climate Footprint and Environmental Impact Assessments

• A recent public interest litigation filed in the Madras High Court emphasises the need to include climate change considerations in Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) for large-scale projects.

Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA):

What is Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)? Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a systematic process used to evaluate the potential environmental effects of proposed projects or activities before they are implemented. Originating in the 1960s and 1970s, EIA aims to predict, assess, and mitigate adverse impacts on natural environments and communities, ensuring informed decision-making and sustainable development. EIA Procedure: Screening: Determine if a project requires an EIA based on its size and potential impacts. Scoping: Identify key issues and potential impacts to be studied. Baseline Data Collection: Gather data on current environmental conditions such as air and water quality. Impact Prediction: Assess how the project will affect the environment using the collected data. Mitigation Measures: Propose strategies to minimize or avoid adverse impacts. Alternatives Assessment: Evaluate different project options to select the least harmful option. Public Consultation: Engage stakeholders and communities for their input and concerns. Review and Decision-Making: Authorities review the EIA report and decide on project approval, rejection, or conditional approval.

• Currently, EIAs do not account for the climate change impacts of construction projects, such as carbon footprints, greenhouse gas emissions, and effects on community health.
• The petitioner argues that the EIA process should evaluate the long-term climate impact from the start of construction through the operational life of a project.
• An Environmental Management Plan should be required to mitigate the climate impacts, and this plan should be reviewed by the government before project clearance is granted.

Judicial and Legislative Developments

• The First Division Bench of the Madras High Court has responded positively to the plea, requesting a government reply within two weeks.
• The case could set a precedent for integrating climate change considerations into environmental regulation.
• Various countries, including the Bahamas, France, Chile, the United States, China, and Australia, have already enacted legislation to address climate change impacts.
• India, which is likely to face severe climate impacts, is encouraged to develop and implement laws to mitigate environmental degradation and preserve gains made in environmental protection.

Global Context and Future Directions

• The case before the Madras High Court reflects a growing global recognition of climate change as a critical issue.
• As climate change increasingly affects human health and environmental stability, comprehensive legal frameworks are necessary to address its effects effectively.
• The integration of climate change components into environmental assessments is seen as a vital step toward more sustainable development practices and better health outcomes.

PYQ: ‘Climate Change’ is a global problem. How will India be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India be affected by climate change? (250 words/15m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-3 2017)

Practice Question:  Discuss the significance of incorporating climate change considerations into Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) in India and its potential impact on public health and environmental sustainability. (250 Words /15 marks)

4. Vasco da Gama’s toxic legacy is now a ‘pandemic’ that kills 8 million globally

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

Topic: GS2 – Social Justice –  Health

Context

The voyage of Vasco da Gama in 1497 led to the global spread of tobacco, significantly impacting trade and cultures. Despite its economic benefits, tobacco poses severe health risks, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases. It remains a major public health crisis, with ethical and economic conflicts in addressing its effects.

Historical Context

• The voyage of Vasco da Gama, starting on July 8, 1497, revolutionised global maritime routes and trade.
• This era of exploration also introduced and spread tobacco, a commodity that has significantly impacted societies worldwide.

Health Impacts of Tobacco

• Tobacco consumption leads to severe health problems, including various cancers (lung, mouth, throat, oesophagus, pancreas, and bladder), respiratory diseases (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis), and cardiovascular issues (heart disease, stroke, and hypertension).
• It can also cause diabetes, infertility, weakened immune systems, and complications during pregnancy. Nicotine, a key addictive substance in tobacco, contributes to high addiction rates.
• Tobacco use is a major global public health crisis, necessitating urgent and coordinated efforts to address its severe consequences.

Introduction and Spread in South Asia

• Tobacco, originally cultivated by Native Americans, was brought to Europe in the 16th Century and later introduced to South Asia by European traders and colonisers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British.
• Tobacco rapidly integrated into South Asian cultures and societies, although it was initially foreign to Indian traditions.
• No native Indian language had an original term for tobacco, with its introduction marking a significant cultural shift.

Economic Dimensions

• Tobacco is economically important, especially to marginalised communities.
• It accounts for 2% of India’s agricultural exports and provides employment to over 45 million people.
• The industry generates substantial revenue through taxation and exports, exceeding ₹22,000 crore. However, the human and financial costs are immense, with the total economic cost of smoking in India amounting to ₹1.82 trillion annually.
• Tobacco use causes over 1.2 million deaths in India each year and contributes to 27% of all cancer cases in the country, highlighting the severe health impact of tobacco as a colonial legacy.

Conflicting Priorities in Research

• There is a conflict between two major institutions in India: the Indian Council of Medical Research, which advocates for reducing tobacco use to improve public health, and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, which focuses on enhancing tobacco crop yields and productivity.
• The Central Tobacco Research Institute, part of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, works on increasing tobacco productivity and quality, which contrasts with the Indian Council of Medical Research’s goal of a tobacco-free India, creating an ethical and policy dilemma.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

• Article 21 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, including the right to health.
• Directive Principles of State Policy under Articles 39(e), 39(f), 41, 42, and 47 mandate the state to improve public health and ensure social justice.
• These constitutional provisions necessitate prioritising public health over economic gains from tobacco farming.

Potential of CRISPR Technology

• The gene-editing technology CRISPR holds promise for addressing the tobacco epidemic by creating genetically-modified tobacco plants with reduced harm.
• Research has shown that CRISPR can significantly lower nicotine levels in tobacco plants, with specific gene modifications reducing nicotine content by up to 94%. However, further research is needed to ensure these modifications do not adversely affect other important traits.
• Collaboration between the Indian Council of Medical Research and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research is crucial to develop tobacco crops that balance reduced health risks with economic viability.

Surrogate Advertising

• Despite stringent advertising bans under the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, the tobacco industry uses surrogate advertising to promote its products.
• Surrogate advertising includes using brand names on non-tobacco products, sponsoring events, and featuring tobacco-related imagery in media and entertainment, undermining public health efforts and perpetuating tobacco use.

Classification as a Pandemic

• Tobacco use fits the definition of a pandemic due to its widespread prevalence, severe health consequences, and impact across multiple countries.
• Tobacco causes over 8 million deaths annually worldwide and affects millions more through chronic diseases and disabilities, justifying the classification of tobacco consumption as a pandemic and highlighting the need for coordinated international efforts to combat it effectively.

Practice Question:  Discuss the health and economic consequences of tobacco consumption, and evaluate the ethical dilemmas faced by India in balancing public health concerns with the economic benefits of tobacco cultivation. (250 Words /15 marks)

5. What is the role of the Finance Commission?

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

Topic: GS2 – Indian Polity –  Constitutional Bodies

Context

The Finance Commission is a constitutional body in India tasked with recommending the distribution of tax revenues between the Central government and States. It also determines funding for local bodies. The Commission faces challenges, including disagreements between the Centre and States over revenue sharing, allocation disparities, and political influence.

Overview of the Finance Commission

• The Finance Commission is a constitutional body responsible for recommending the distribution of tax revenues between the Central government and various States in India.
• Established under Article 280 of the Indian Constitution, it is reconstituted every five years, though its recommendations take a couple of years to finalise.

Functions and Mandates

• Vertical Devolution: The Commission decides what percentage of the Central government’s net tax revenue should be shared with the States. This process is known as vertical devolution. This proportion has seen varying recommendations from previous Finance Commissions, with the 13th, 14th, and 15th Finance Commissions suggesting shares of 32%, 42%, and 41%, respectively.
• Horizontal Devolution: The Commission also determines how the allocated share is distributed among the States. This horizontal devolution is based on a formula considering factors like population, income levels, and geography. Unlike vertical devolution, horizontal devolution uses an objective formula.
• Local Bodies: The 16th Finance Commission is expected to address the need for increased revenue for local bodies such as panchayats and municipalities. In India, as of 2015, local bodies account for only about 3% of public spending, which is significantly lower compared to countries like China.

Issues and Conflicts

• Centre vs. States: There has been ongoing friction between the Central government and the States regarding the sharing of tax revenues. The Central government collects major taxes such as income tax, corporate tax, and goods and services tax (GST), while States rely on taxes from goods and services beyond GST. States handle critical services like education, healthcare, and policing but argue that the funds provided are insufficient relative to their responsibilities.
• Allocation Disputes: States often claim that they receive less funding than recommended by the Finance Commission. For instance, under the current Fifteenth Finance Commission, the Central government has devolved an average of 38% of funds from the divisible pool to the States, below the Commission’s recommendation of 41%.
• Cesses and Surcharges: There is controversy over cesses and surcharges, which are not included in the divisible pool and therefore not shared with the States. These can constitute a significant portion of the Central government’s tax revenue, potentially reducing the States’ share to around 32% when these are factored in.
• Disparities Among States: Developed States like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu argue that they receive less financial support from the Centre compared to what they contribute in taxes. For example, Tamil Nadu receives only 29 paise for each rupee contributed, whereas less developed States such as Bihar receive more significant amounts.

Criticisms and Concerns

• Perceived Inequity: Some critics argue that the Finance Commission’s recommendations may unfairly penalise more developed States to support less developed ones, potentially discouraging good governance in wealthier States.
• Political Influence: There are concerns about the independence of the Finance Commission, given that its members are appointed by the Central government. This has led to doubts about whether its recommendations are entirely free from political influence.

Conclusion

• The Finance Commission plays a critical role in determining fiscal relations between the Centre and the States.
• Its recommendations impact public finance and governance across India.
• While it strives to balance regional needs and equity, ongoing disputes and concerns highlight the complex nature of federal financial arrangements in India.

PYQ: How is the Finance Commission of India constituted? What do you know about the terms of reference of the recently constituted Finance Commission? Discuss. (250 words/15m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-2 2018)

Practice Question:  Discuss the role of the Finance Commission in India’s fiscal federalism. How does its functioning impact the revenue-sharing relationship between the Centre and the States? (250 Words /15 marks)

6. India and Malaysia to increase cooperation in the field of Oil palm and other sectors

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2034036 )

Topic: GS2 – International Relations

Context

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Malaysian Minister Johari Abdul Ghani met on July 18, 2024, to discuss enhancing India-Malaysia cooperation in agriculture. Key topics included the National Mission on Edible Oil, market access issues, institutional cooperation, and digital technology in plantations. Both sides expressed optimism for continued collaboration.

Analysis of the news:

• The Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development of India, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, met with the Minister for Plantations and Commodities of Malaysia, Shri Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, on July 18, 2024.
• The Malaysian Minister is visiting India from July 16-19, 2024.
• The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in agriculture, particularly in the oil palm sector.
• Discussions included collaboration on the National Mission on Edible Oil- Oil Palm, addressing market access issues for agricultural and allied products, institutionalising agricultural cooperation, and applying digital technology in the plantation sector.

India – Malaysia Relations

Significance of Malaysia for India Strategic Location: Malaysia’s strategic location in Southeast Asia is crucial for India’s maritime security and trade routes, facilitating connectivity between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Agricultural Collaboration: Oil palm is a crucial aspect of India-Malaysia relations, with Malaysia being one of the world’s largest producers. India imports significant quantities of palm oil from Malaysia for its edible oil needs. This trade relationship supports Malaysia’s economy and addresses India’s demand for affordable cooking oil. Economic Ties: Malaysia is one of India’s key trade partners in ASEAN, with significant bilateral trade in goods and services. It serves as a hub for Indian investments in the region. Investment Opportunities: Malaysian investments in India span various sectors, including technology, infrastructure, and manufacturing, boosting economic cooperation. Diaspora Community: A large Indian diaspora in Malaysia strengthens cultural and economic ties, contributing to bilateral relations through trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. Strategic Partnership: Both nations can cooperate on regional security, counterterrorism, and maritime security, enhancing mutual strategic interests and regional stability.

Practice Question:  Discuss the significance of Malaysia for India in terms of strategic, economic, and cultural relations. (150 Words /10 marks)

7. Report on “Electronics: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains” by NITI Aayog released today

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2034096 )

Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy

Context

NITI Aayog‘s report outlines a strategy for India to become a global electronics powerhouse, targeting USD 500 billion in manufacturing by FY30 and generating 5.5 to 6 million jobs. The plan emphasizes boosting production, enhancing design capabilities, diversifying into new tech areas, and overcoming existing challenges.

Analysis of the news:

• NITI Aayog’s report titled “Electronics: Powering India’s Participation in Global Value Chains” highlights India’s potential and challenges in the electronics sector.
• Global Value Chains (GVCs) are crucial, accounting for 70% of international trade; electronics represent 75% of its exports.
• India’s electronics sector grew to USD 155 billion in FY23, with production nearly doubling from USD 48 billion in FY17 to USD 101 billion.
• Mobile phones drive the sector, now constituting 43% of production, and India manufactures 99% of smartphones domestically.
• Despite progress, India holds only 4% of the global electronics market, mainly focusing on assembly with limited design and component capabilities.
• The global electronics market is valued at USD 4.3 trillion, with India exporting about USD 25 billion annually.
• Projections show India’s electronics manufacturing could reach USD 278 billion by FY30 in a Business As Usual scenario, generating 3.4 million jobs and USD 111 billion in exports.
• For India to achieve its target of USD 500 billion by FY30, including USD 350 billion from finished goods and USD 150 billion from components, it needs substantial policy support and strategic interventions.
• The strategy includes enhancing production in mobile phones, expanding into wearables, IoT devices, and automotive electronics, and improving components manufacturing.

Practice Question:  Discuss the key strategies proposed in NITI Aayog’s report to transform India into a global leader in electronics manufacturing by FY30. Evaluate the potential impact of these strategies on India’s economic growth and job creation. (250 Words /15 marks)

Prelims Facts

1. Ivory Coast tilts its economy from agriculture to mining natural resources

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 15)

Context

Ivory Coast is transitioning from an agriculture-centric economy to a major oil and gas producer, with recent discoveries of significant natural resources. The country is expanding its mining sector, hosting international industry events, but faces environmental challenges and risks associated with resource extraction and deforestation.

Analysis of the news:

• Economic Diversification: Ivory Coast is shifting from its traditional agricultural focus, especially on cocoa, to become a significant oil and gas producer.
• Resource Discoveries: Recent discoveries include large oil reserves (six billion barrels) and significant deposits of gold, lithium, manganese, nickel, and coltan.
• International Engagement: The country will host its first international mining industry exhibition, SIREXE, in November and December.
• Environmental Concerns: Risks include potential deforestation, pollution from mining operations, and indirect emissions. Efforts are underway to address these issues, with goals for carbon-neutral operations.

Ivory Coast:

Ivory Coast, officially known as Côte d’Ivoire, is a West African country bordered by Liberia, Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Ghana, with a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. Its capital city is Yamoussoukro, while Abidjan is its largest city and economic hub. The country is known for its diverse culture, tropical climate, and economic activities including cocoa and coffee production, which are major exports. Ivory Coast has a rich history influenced by various ethnic groups and has experienced periods of political instability. It is a member of the United Nations, African Union, and Economic Community of West African States.

 

2. Survival International’s Images Reveal Urgent Threat to Uncontacted Mashco Piro Tribe from Logging Operations

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 14)

Context:

Survival International, an NGO advocating for indigenous rights, has released rare pictures of the Mashco Piro tribespeople in southeastern Peru. These images highlight the precarious situation of one of the world’s 100-odd uncontacted tribes, who are now facing threats from nearby logging operations.

Analysis of News:   

The Uncontacted Tribe

• The Mashco Piro, a nomadic hunter-gatherer tribe, reside in the Amazon jungles of the Madre de Dios region, close to Peru’s border with Brazil and Bolivia.
• Estimated to number over 750, they are one of the largest uncontacted tribes.
• Peru’s government has banned contact with the Mashco Piro to prevent the spread of diseases to which they have no immunity.
• The tribe is highly reclusive, with most information about them coming from the neighboring Yine people.

Logging in the Forest

Canales Tahuamanu, the most prominent logging company, has been granted 53,000 hectares to extract cedar and mahogany. The presence of logging operations has caused the Mashco Piro to feel increasingly pressured and threatened.

In 2002, the Madre de Dios Territorial Reserve was established to protect the Mashco Piro’s territory.

However, significant parts of their traditional lands lie outside the reserve. These areas have been sold off as logging concessions, allowing companies to exploit the forests for timber.