24 December 2024 : Daily Current Affairs

 1. India’s reliance on China for critical minerals

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

Topic: GS2 – International Relations,  GS3 – Indian Economy

Context

India’s dependency on China for critical minerals poses significant challenges to its economic and national security. With China dominating mineral reserves, processing, and refining, India’s vulnerability in sectors like electronics, energy, and defense has increased. India is taking steps to diversify supply sources and reduce this reliance.

Identification of Critical Minerals

• In 2023, the Ministry of Mines identified 30 critical minerals crucial for India’s economic development and national security.
• While India’s import dependency on 10 minerals was highlighted, the article points out the significant issue of dependency on China.

China’s Dominance in the Global Mineral Market

• China’s Vast Resource Base and Mining Capabilities
  • China is the world’s largest mining nation, having discovered 173 types of minerals, including key minerals like copper, nickel, lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements.
  • China controls nearly 40% of global reserves for critical minerals and has invested significantly in exploration, discovering 132 new mineral deposits, including 34 large ones.
• Processing and Refining Dominance
  • China dominates mineral processing and refining, controlling 87% of rare earth processing, 58% of lithium refining, and 68% of silicon processing, giving it a significant influence over global supply chains.

China’s Export Controls Strategy

• Strategic Export Restrictions
  • China strategically controls exports of critical minerals like antimony, gallium, and germanium, especially those vital for semiconductor, battery, and high-tech manufacturing.
  • However, China carefully balances these restrictions to avoid harming its own domestic industries that rely on these minerals and ensures it doesn’t disrupt its key economic sectors.

India’s Dependency on Chinese Imports

• High Dependency on Chinese Supplies
  • India’s vulnerability to Chinese supplies is particularly high for six critical minerals: bismuth (85.6%), lithium (82%), silicon (76%), titanium (50.6%), tellurium (48.8%), and graphite (42.4%).
  • Bismuth, lithium, and graphite are critical for various industries, including pharmaceuticals, EV batteries, and solar panels, all of which rely heavily on Chinese processing and production.

Challenges Behind India’s Import Reliance

• Structural Issues in Mining and Processing
  • Despite possessing significant mineral resources, India faces challenges in mining technologies and processing capabilities, limiting domestic production.
  • Lack of private sector participation and inadequate policy incentives hinder the development of India’s mining sector.

India’s Strategy to Reduce Dependency

• Multi-Pronged Approach
  • India has launched initiatives like KABIL, a joint venture of three State-owned companies, to secure overseas mineral assets and diversify supply sources.
  • India is engaging in global partnerships, such as the Minerals Security Partnership and the Critical Raw Materials Club, to reduce its dependence on China.
• Focus on Research and Recycling
  • India is investing in research through institutions like the Geological Survey of India and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research.
  • The country is also promoting recycling and circular economy practices, including production-linked incentives for extracting critical minerals through recycling.
• Long-Term Commitment Needed
  • While these efforts are promising, a sustained investment and long-term commitment are necessary for India to successfully reduce its dependency on China.

Practice Question:  Critically examine India’s dependency on China for critical minerals and discuss the steps India is taking to reduce this reliance. What challenges and opportunities does this dependency present for India’s economic and national security? (250 Words /15 marks)

2. ISFR-2023: Marginal Gains in Green Cover Mask Alarming Loss of Natural Forests

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 17)

Topic: GS3 – Environment

Context:

The ISFR-2023 report highlights India’s marginal green cover growth while raising concerns over the replacement of natural dense forests with monoculture plantations.

Analysis of News: 

What are the Key findings of ISFR 2023?

• Forest and Tree Cover: The total forest and tree cover of the country is 8,27,356.95 km2 which is 25.17% of the geographical area (GA) of the country.
  • The total Forest Cover has an area of 7,15,342.61 km2 (21.76%) whereas the Tree Cover has an area of 1,12,014.34 km2 (3.41%).
• Increase in Forest and Tree Cover: The country’s forest and tree cover has increased by 1,445.81 km², with a 156.41 km² rise in forest cover compared to 2021.
  • Maximum increase (Forest and Tree Cover): Chhattisgarh (684 sq km) followed by Uttar Pradesh (559 sq km), Odisha (559 sq km) and Rajasthan (394 sq km).
  • Maximum Increase (Forest Cover): Mizoram (242 sq km) followed by Gujarat (180 sq km) and Odisha (152 sq km). 
  • Largest Decrease: Madhya Pradesh (612.41 km²) followed by Karnataka (459.36 km²), Ladakh (159.26 km²), and Nagaland (125.22 km²).
• Top Three States: Area wise top three states having largest forest cover are Madhya Pradesh (77,073 sq km) followed by Arunachal Pradesh (65,882 sq km) and Chhattisgarh (55,812 sq km).
  • In terms of percentage of forest cover with respect to total geographical area, Lakshadweep (91.33%) has the highest forest cover followed by Mizoram (85.34%) and Andaman & Nicobar Island (81.62%).
• High Forest Cover: 19 states/UTs have above 33% of the geographical area under forest cover.
  • Out of these, eight states/UTs namely Mizoram, Lakshadweep, A & N Island, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur have forest cover above 75%.
• Carbon Stock: The country’s forest carbon stock is estimated at 7,285.5 million tonnes, with an increase of 81.5 million tonnes compared to 2021.
  • Top 3: Arunachal Pradesh (1,021 Mt) followed by Madhya Pradesh (608 Mt), Chhattisgarh (505 Mt) and Maharashtra (465 Mt).
  • India’s carbon stock has reached 30.43 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent, exceeding the 2005 base year by 2.29 billion tonnes, nearing the 2030 target of 2.5–3.0 billion tonnes.
• Regional Performance: The Western Ghats Eco-Sensitive Areas (WGESA) covers 60,285.61 km², with 44,043.99 km² (73%) under forest cover.
  • The total forest and tree cover in the Northeastern region is 1,74,394.70 km2 , which is 67% of the geographical area of these states.
• Mangrove Cover: India’s mangrove cover is 4,991.68 km², representing 0.15% of the total geographical area, with a net decrease of 7.43 km² since 2021.
  • Gujarat saw a decrease of 36.39 km² in mangrove cover, while Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra experienced increases of 13.01 km² and 12.39 km², respectively.

• Forest Fire: The top three states with the most fire incidents in the 2023-24 season are Uttarakhand, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh.

Marginal Gains in India’s Green Cover

• The ISFR-2023 report reveals an overall increase in India’s green cover, with forest cover growing marginally by 156 sq km and tree cover expanding significantly by 1,289 sq km since 2021.
• For the first time, the country’s combined green cover has surpassed 25%, with forests accounting for 21.76% and tree cover 3.41%.
• However, growth in forest cover remains slow, reflecting diminishing returns as India approaches saturation levels.

Trends in Forest Density and Dynamics

• The report highlights a dynamic forest landscape where dense forests (canopy density ≥40%) are shrinking, while plantations are increasingly being classified as dense forests.
• Since 2021, India lost 3,913 sq km of dense forests, continuing a decades-long trend.
• In the last 20 years, 24,651 sq km of dense forests have disappeared, but rapid plantation growth has partially offset these losses, transforming 15,530 sq km of sparse or non-forested land into dense forests.

Impact of Plantations on Forest Composition

• The increasing reliance on plantations for maintaining dense forest cover raises concerns.
• Unlike natural forests, plantations are monocultures, often vulnerable to pests, fires, and diseases.
• They lack the biodiversity and ecological functions of natural forests and may impede the regeneration of native species.
• While plantations sequester carbon faster in the short term, their long-term benefits are debatable, as they are frequently harvested, undermining climate goals.

Data Revisions and Transparency Issues

• India’s dense forest cover shows an apparent growth of 6% (21,601 sq km) since 2003, but much of this increase stems from unexplained data revisions across multiple ISFR editions.
• This lack of transparency masks the degradation of natural forests, giving a misleading impression of stability.

Key Implications and Concerns

• The steady replacement of natural dense forests with plantations undermines biodiversity, carbon storage, and long-term ecological resilience.
• Experts caution against relying on plantations to meet climate targets, as this approach may compromise the broader ecological and environmental objectives of forest conservation.
• A balanced strategy focusing on protecting natural forests alongside sustainable afforestation efforts is crucial for meaningful progress.

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What are the Trend in Forestry Parameters Between 2013-2023?

Increase in Greenery: The forest cover of the country has shown an increase of 16,630.25 km2. The tree cover has shown an increase of 20,747.34 km2. Mangrove cover of the country has increased by 296.33 km2. Soil Health: There is a general improvement in soil health (87.16% of shallow to deep soil as against 83.53% in 2013) reflected by improvement in humus. The soil organic carbon has increased from 55.85 tonnes per hectare to 56.08 tonnes per hectare. Soil organic carbon is carbon contained in soil organic matter which contributes to soil aggregation, enhancing soil structure and stability. Biotic influences: Biotic influences on forests have also come down to 26.66% from 31.28% in 2013 which indicates improved floral biodiversity, and improved surroundings for faunal biodiversity. Biotic influences are any influence of living organisms. In forests, the biotic influences could include grazing, browsing, man-made fire, pollarding, illicit felling, and lopping.

PYQ: Consider the following States: (2019) Chhattisgarh Madhya Pradesh Maharashtra Odisha With reference to the States mentioned above, in terms of percentage of forest cover to the total area of State, which one of the following is the correct ascending order? (a) 2-3-1-4  (b) 2-3-4-1 (c) 3-2-4-1  (d) 3-2-1-4 Ans: (c)

Practice Question:  Critically analyze the findings of ISFR-2023, focusing on the implications of declining natural dense forests and the increasing reliance on plantations for India’s forest cover growth.. (250 words/15 m)

3. The MSME Revolution: Transforming India’s Economic Landscape

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2087361&reg=3&lang=1 )

Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy

Context

The MSME sector in India has witnessed remarkable growth, significantly boosting exports, contributing to GDP, and driving economic development. Despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, MSMEs demonstrated resilience and adaptability, scaling up enterprises and enhancing export competitiveness.

MSMEs’ Contribution to India’s Export Growth

• MSME exports rose significantly from ₹3.95 lakh crore in 2020-21 to ₹12.39 lakh crore in 2024-25.
• The number of exporting MSMEs increased from 52,849 in 2020-21 to 1,73,350 in 2024-25.
• MSMEs contributed 45.73% to India’s exports in 2023-24, which further increased to 45.79% by May 2024.

MSMEs’ Role in India’s GDP

• The Gross Value Added (GVA) by MSMEs in GDP grew from 29.7% in 2017-18 to 30.1% in 2022-23.
• Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, MSMEs maintained a significant GDP contribution of 27.3% in 2020-21 and rebounded to 29.6% in 2021-22.
• This demonstrates MSMEs’ resilience and pivotal role in India’s economic stability.

Growth and Upgradation of Enterprises

MSMEs are classified into Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises based on investment and turnover criteria revised on July 1, 2020. Micro Enterprise: Investment ≤ ₹1 crore; Turnover ≤ ₹5 crore.Small Enterprise: Investment ≤ ₹10 crore; Turnover ≤ ₹50 crore. Medium Enterprise: Investment ≤ ₹50 crore; Turnover ≤ ₹250 crore.From 2020-21 to 2021-22, 714 Micro enterprises and 3,701 Small enterprises scaled up to Medium. The trend grew stronger in 2023-24 to 2024-25, with 2,372 Micro enterprises and 17,745 Small enterprises upgrading to Medium enterprises.

Significance of MSMEs for Economic Development

• MSMEs are instrumental in employment generation, entrepreneurship promotion, and inclusive growth.
• The sector fosters innovation, supports export competitiveness, and strengthens India’s position as a global economic leader.
• By creating employment opportunities and driving economic development, MSMEs serve as the backbone of India’s economy.

PYQ: Faster economic growth requires increased share of the manufacturing sector in GDP, particularly of MSMEs. Comment on the present policies of the Government in this regard. (150 words/10m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-3 2023)

Practice Question:  Examine the role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in boosting India’s exports and GDP. How can policy interventions and technological advancements strengthen the sector’s global competitiveness and resilience? (150 Words /10 marks)

4. National Workshop on PESA Act to be Held in Ranchi, Jharkhand on 24th December 2024

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2087187&reg=3&lang=1 )

Context

The National Workshop on the PESA Act, 1996, in Ranchi on December 24, 2024, aims to enhance awareness and strengthen tribal governance in Scheduled Areas. Organized by Jharkhand’s Panchayati Raj Department, it coincides with the state nearing finalization of its PESA Rules.

Introduction:

• The Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996, or PESA, was enacted to ensure self-governance through Gram Sabhas for people living in the Scheduled Areas of India.

Key Features of PESA:

• Empowerment of Gram Sabhas:
  • Grants Gram Sabhas the power over local plans and resources, including the authority to manage minor forest produce.
  • Requires mandatory consultation with Gram Sabhas in matters of land acquisition, resettlement, and rehabilitation.
• Planning and Development:
  • Gram Sabhas are responsible for approving village development plans.
  • They identify beneficiaries for poverty alleviation programs.
• Control over Resources:
  • Gram Sabhas have the right to control and manage local markets.
  • They regulate money lending to prevent exploitation of tribal communities by money lenders.
• Social Justice:
  • Gram Sabhas play a role in resolving local disputes.
  • They have the power to enforce prohibition or regulate the sale of liquor within their areas.

Applicability

• Applies to the Fifth Schedule areas across 10 states: Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Telangana.

Significance of PESA:

• Tribal Self-Rule: PESA aims to empower tribal communities by recognizing their traditional rights and enabling them to participate in decision-making processes that affect their lives.
• Preservation of Culture: The Act helps protect the cultural identity of tribal communities by recognizing their customary laws and practices.
• Sustainable Development: By granting control over natural resources to Gram Sabhas, PESA promotes sustainable and equitable development in Scheduled Areas.

Challenges and Implementation:

• Lack of Awareness: Many tribal communities are not fully aware of their rights under PESA.
• State-level Dilution: Some states have enacted laws that dilute the provisions of PESA, limiting its effectiveness.
• Bureaucratic Hurdles: Bureaucratic resistance and lack of political will have also hindered the implementation of PESA in some areas.

PYQ: Article 244 of Indian Constitution relates to Administration of Scheduled areas and tribal areas. Analyze the impact of non-implementation of the provisions of fifth schedule on the growth of Left Wing Extremism. (200 words/10m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-3 2013)

Practice Question: Evaluate the role of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996, in ensuring self-governance for tribal communities. What are the key hurdles in its effective implementation? (150 Words /10 marks)

Prelims Facts

1. Kashmiri artisans give wings to the dodo

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

Context

Kashmir’s papier mache artisans are reviving the memory of dodos, a bird extinct since 1681, by crafting colorful models adorned with symbolic floral and forest prints. These handcrafted dodos are in high demand, particularly in Europe and Mauritius. The bird’s introduction to Kashmir’s craft scene is relatively recent and growing.

About Dodo:

• Scientific Name: Raphus cucullatus, an extinct flightless bird.
• Native Habitat: Exclusive to Mauritius, a tropical island in the Indian Ocean, with no natural predators before human arrival.
• Physical Description: Stood about 3 feet (1 meter) tall, weighing 10–20 kg, with grayish feathers, a large hooked beak, stubby wings, and stout legs.
• Diet: Primarily frugivorous, feeding on fruits, seeds, roots, nuts, and possibly crabs or small animals.
• Reproduction: Nested on the ground, laying one egg at a time, making it vulnerable to predators.
• Extinction: Declared extinct by 1681 due to overhunting by sailors, habitat destruction, and the introduction of invasive species like rats and pigs.
• Historical Significance: Its extinction marked one of the earliest documented human-caused extinctions, highlighting the impact of human activity on biodiversity.

2. Former SC judge named human rights panel chief

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 4)

Context

The President of India appointed Justice V. Ramasubramanian (retd.) as Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), filling a vacancy since June. Child rights advocate Priyank Kanoongo and Justice Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi were appointed as members.

National Human Rights Commission (NHRC):

• Acts as a watchdog for human rights in India, covering rights related to life, liberty, equality, and dignity, as guaranteed by the Constitution and international covenants enforceable by Indian courts.

Establishment:

• Established on 12th October 1993 under the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA), 1993.
• Amended through the Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2006 and the Human Rights (Amendment) Act, 2019.
• Conforms to the Paris Principles (1991) for human rights promotion and protection, endorsed by the UN General Assembly in 1993.

Composition:

• Comprises a Chairman (former Chief Justice of India or Supreme Court judge) and five members.

Appointment:

• Members are appointed by the President based on the recommendation of a six-member committee headed by the Prime Minister, including the Speaker of Lok Sabha, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha, Leaders of the Opposition, and the Union Home Minister.

Tenure:

• Members serve a term of three years or until 70 years of age, whichever is earlier.

Role and Functions:

• Investigates human rights violations with the powers of a civil court.
• Cannot inquire into cases older than one year.
• Functions mainly as a recommendatory body without punitive powers.
• Limited jurisdiction over armed forces and no power to act on violations by private parties.

3. Filmmaker who gave a voice to the voiceless, held dear the idea of India

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

Context

Renowned filmmaker Shyam Benegal, a pioneer of Indian New Wave cinema, passed away at 90. Tributes poured in from leaders and celebrities, recognizing his profound contributions to Indian cinema and society.

More About Shyam Benegal:

• Legacy: Peerless filmmaker and Dada Saheb Phalke Award winner who passed away at 90, documented India’s social fabric through cinema.
• Indian New Wave: Known for films like Ankur (1974), Nishant (1975), and Manthan (1976) that highlighted the struggles of marginalized communities.
• Style: Used cinema to reflect the act of living, combining realism with searing social commentary.
• Range of Work: Explored themes from idealism (Bhumika, Sardari Begum) to satire (Welcome to Sajjanpur, Well Done Abba).
• Pioneering Efforts: Introduced crowdfunding (Manthan), and created iconic works like Bharat Ek Khoj and Samvidhan.
• Team & Actors: Collaborated with creatives like Govind Nihalani and introduced talents like Shabana Azmi and Naseeruddin Shah.
• Ideology: Advocated pluralism and spoke against intolerance.
• Notable Biopics: Directed The Making of Mahatma, The Forgotten Hero, and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s biopic (2023).

4. Centre Ends No-Detention Policy for Classes 5 and 8 in Central Schools to Enhance Accountability in Education

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Cover Page; Page: 01)

Context:

The Centre has officially ended the no-detention policy for Classes 5 and 8 in its schools, including Kendriya Vidyalayas, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas, and others under the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Tribal Affairs. This marks a significant shift in educational policy, impacting around 3,000 schools. The decision follows the 2019 amendment to the Right to Education (RTE) Act, empowering states to scrap the policy.

Analysis of News:                                                                       

New Rules for Retention and Promotion

• Under the revised rules, students failing to meet promotion criteria will have an opportunity for additional instruction and re-examination within two months.
• If they fail the re-exam, they may be held back. Teachers are tasked with identifying learning gaps, guiding students and parents, and providing specialized support.
• The evaluation will focus on competency-based exams rather than rote memorization. However, expulsion before completing elementary education remains prohibited.

Rationale for Scrapping the Policy

• The no-detention policy was introduced under the RTE Act, 2009, to prevent dropouts and ensure minimum educational attainment.
• However, concerns arose over declining academic seriousness among students.
• In 2016, the Central Advisory Board of Education recommended scrapping the policy.
• Proponents argue that the revised approach brings accountability to elementary education, emphasizing the importance of academic rigor.

State Adoption Trends

• Since the 2019 amendment, 18 states and UTs have abolished the no-detention policy, including Assam, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal.
• Others like Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Maharashtra continue with the policy.
• The Centre’s decision aligns with the National Education Policy 2020 and the 2023 National Curriculum Framework, taking a comprehensive view of the education system’s needs.

For more such UPSC-related Current Affairs, Check Out-23 December 2024 : Daily Current Affairs