27 January 2025 : Daily Current Affairs
1. Indian space programme breaks into 2025 in ‘mission mode’
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)
| Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology |
| Context |
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PSLV-C60 Mission and SpaDeX Experiment
- On December 30, 2024, the PSLV-C60 mission launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), carrying the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) satellites.
- Two satellites were deployed into a 475-km orbit and began preparations for docking, set for January 7, 2025.
- Initial attempts faced challenges, including unexpected drift between the satellites. ISRO adjusted inter-satellite distances multiple times.
- On January 16, 2025, the two satellites successfully docked, marking India’s first in-orbit rendezvous and docking achievement.
- This milestone is crucial for future lunar and space-station docking operations.
POEM4 Mission
- After deploying SpaDeX, PSLV-C60’s fourth stage began the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM4) phase.
- POEM4 carried 24 payloads, including experiments by ISRO, academia, and private companies.
- The POEM4 mission uses the PSLV’s fourth stage as an experimental platform for scientific payloads.
- It supports research in robotics, propulsion, and plant studies.
| Leadership Transition at ISRO |
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Leadership Transition at ISRO
- On January 14, 2025, V. Narayanan became ISRO’s new chairman, succeeding S. Somanath.
- Narayanan has expertise in cryogenic and semi-cryogenic engines and led investigations into Chandrayaan-2’s landing failure.
Indian Contributions on SpaceX’s Transporter 12 Mission
- On January 15, 2025, three Indian companies launched payloads aboard SpaceX’s Transporter 12 mission:
- Pixxel Space: Launched three hyperspectral satellites as part of a private constellation.
- Digantara: Deployed a satellite for space situational awareness.
- XDLINX Labs: Deployed a miniaturised communications satellite for Almagest Space Corporation.
Infrastructure and Technological Advances
- The government approved ₹3,984.86 crore for a third launch pad at SDSC, expected by 2029.
- ISRO successfully tested the Vikas engine’s restart capability, essential for atmospheric operations.
- Data from the Aditya-L1 solar mission was released, showcasing India’s advancements in studying the sun.
Conclusion
- These missions advance India’s goals in scientific research, technology development, and future space exploration initiatives.
- Collaborative efforts with private companies highlight the expanding role of India’s private space sector in achieving national objectives.
| Practice Question: Discuss the significance of India’s achievements in space exploration and their impact on technological innovation, global collaborations, and the nation’s strategic objectives. (250 Words /15 marks) |
2. Should Governors head State universities?
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 4)
| Topic: GS2 – Governance |
| Context |
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Governor as Chancellor of State Universities: A Colonial Legacy
- It originated during British rule and was designed to restrict university autonomy rather than promote it.
- The position was formalized by British authorities in 1857 when they set up the first universities in Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras.
- Governors of the presidencies were made ex-officio Chancellors to maintain control over these universities.
- The role was adopted post-Independence without reassessment and continues in India today. It is not mentioned in the Constitution but is included in State university laws.
Politicisation of the Governor’s Role
- From 1947 to 1967, the dominance of the Congress party led to Governors being mostly ceremonial figures, with Chief Ministers holding the real power.
- However, post-1967, as several states were ruled by opposition parties, Governors started to play an active role in university governance. This led to clashes with state governments.
- The office of the Governor began to be politicised, with many Governors appointed for their political loyalty rather than for academic expertise, leading to a decline in the office’s credibility.
- The First Administrative Reforms Commission (1966–77) and the Sarkaria Commission (1983-88) criticized this politicisation.
Dual Role of Governors
- The Governor’s role is divided constitutionally into two categories: acting on the advice of the Council of Ministers (Article 163) and acting independently in certain functions, like being the Chancellor of State universities.
- The Governor’s discretion in university matters, such as appointing Vice-Chancellors and presiding over convocations, has caused issues, particularly in states ruled by opposition parties.
Challenges of the Current System
- Governors have significant power over State universities despite these universities being funded by State governments. This creates confusion and conflicts.
- Delays in appointing Vice-Chancellors and other administrative issues affect the functioning of universities.
- Governors, often lacking academic experience, make decisions based on limited, non-transparent advice.
- Political interference by Governors often prioritises central government agendas over universities’ needs.
- The system undermines the principle of federalism, as it places State universities under control by Governors appointed by the Centre.
Commission Insights and Recommendations
- The Rajamannar Committee (1969-71) and the Sarkaria Commission (1983-88) recommended that Governors consult with Chief Ministers but retain independent judgment.
- The M.M. Punchhi Commission (2007-10) suggested that the Governor focus on constitutional duties, not statutory roles like Chancellor, to preserve dignity.
- Various commissions, including the National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (2000-02), have advocated for greater university autonomy and a clearer role for Chancellors.
Alternative Models for the Role of Chancellor
- Best practices suggest that the Chancellor should be a ceremonial leader, with no executive authority.
- Some States, like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, have implemented reforms where the Governor’s role is reduced to a ceremonial one.
- The State-appointed Chancellor model, in which eminent academics or public figures serve as Chancellor, has been suggested as a solution.
- This model ensures academic independence while preventing political interference.
- This model is being considered in several States, but many Bills are awaiting Presidential assent.
Dismantling Colonial Legacy
- Reforming the governance of State universities is essential for academic excellence, reduced political interference, and enhanced accountability to State governments.
- The central government should facilitate these reforms and encourage States to align their university governance models with global best practices.
Conclusion
- The Governor’s role as Chancellor of State universities, a legacy of colonial rule, needs reform.
- Shifting to a more neutral, academic-focused leadership model would enhance university autonomy and governance.
| Practice Question: Examine the impact of the Governor’s role as Chancellor of State universities on academic independence and state autonomy. What reforms are needed to address the challenges associated with this system? (150 Words /10 marks) |
3. Trump’s Greenland Gambit: A Geopolitical Power Play to Counter China in the Arctic
(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained – Page No. – 12)
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Analysis of the news:
Trump’s Renewed Interest in Greenland
- US President Donald Trump’s remarks on Greenland highlight his intent to bring the autonomous Danish territory under American control, citing its strategic importance for the “protection of the free world.”
- While this ambition appears unconventional in the 21st century, it is rooted in historical and geopolitical factors, including concerns over China’s growing influence in the Arctic.
Historical Context of US Interest in Greenland
- The US has shown interest in Greenland since the 1940s, initially driven by World War II security concerns.
- In 1946, America proposed to buy Greenland, aiming to counter Soviet influence in the Arctic.
- Although Denmark rejected the offer, subsequent agreements allowed the US to establish military bases on the island, underscoring its strategic importance.
Greenland’s Geopolitical and Economic Significance
- Greenland’s location near emerging Arctic shipping routes and its abundance of critical natural resources, including rare earth minerals, makes it highly valuable.
- These minerals, essential for renewable energy, military technologies, and electronics, are largely controlled by China.
- Greenland’s untapped reserves offer an opportunity to reduce reliance on Chinese supply chains, adding urgency to US efforts to secure the island.
China’s Growing Influence in Greenland
- China has established a significant presence in Greenland, with investments in mining, infrastructure, and its Arctic “Polar Silk Road” initiative.
- This has raised alarms in the US, which views Chinese activities as a threat to its Arctic strategy and global mineral supply security.
- Trump’s push for Greenland reflects a strategic counter to China’s expanding footprint.
Confrontation with Denmark
- Denmark, which oversees Greenland’s foreign policy, has firmly rejected Trump’s proposals, asserting that Greenland is not for sale and that its future lies with its residents.
- Reports of Trump’s confrontational tone and threats of tariffs during discussions with Danish officials have strained relations between the two nations, further complicating America’s ambitions.
Conclusion:
- Trump’s renewed push for Greenland is emblematic of the shifting global power dynamics, where strategic territories like Greenland play a pivotal role.
- While the bid reflects America’s desire to counter China’s Arctic ambitions, the confrontational approach risks diplomatic fallout.
- Greenland remains a crucial piece in the global geopolitical chessboard, with its future hinging on both local autonomy and international negotiations.
| Key Facts About Greenland |
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| Practice Question: Examine the geopolitical and economic significance of Greenland in the Arctic region. Discuss how global power rivalries, particularly between the United States and China, shape the strategic interests surrounding the island. (150 Words /10 marks) |
4. India’s Investment and External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) Landscape
(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2096480®=3&lang=1 )
| Context |
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Investment Announcements (9MFY25)
- Investment activity in India continues to grow rapidly.
- In the first nine months of FY25 (April-December 2024), total investment announcements reached ₹32.01 lakh crore, a 39% increase from ₹23 lakh crore in FY24.
- The private sector’s contribution increased significantly, accounting for nearly 70% of these announcements, up from 56% in FY24.
The following table shows the key details regarding India’s investment ecosystem,
| Category | Details |
| Gross Block of Indian Corporates | ₹106.50 lakh crore as of March 2024; ₹8 lakh crore added annually over the last five years. |
| Household Net Financial Savings | 5.3% of GDP in FY24; savings in physical assets increased from 12.9% to 13.5% of GDP. |
| Investment as a Percentage of GDP | Government investment: 4.1% of GDP in FY23; Private sector investment: 11.9% of GDP in FY23, the highest since FY16. |
| External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs) as of September 2024 | Total outstanding ECBs: $190.4 billion; 63% held by private sector; 74% hedged by private companies. |
| ECBs in FY25 (Up to November 2024) | ECB registrations reached $33.8 billion by November 2024, with nearly half directed toward capital goods import and modernization. |
Prelims Facts
1. Where did dinosaurs first evolve?
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)
| Context |
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Species in news – Mbiresaurus Raathi
- Species: Mbiresaurus raathi is a species of dinosaur discovered in Zimbabwe.
- Size: It was about one meter tall and weighed approximately 30 kilograms.
- Tail: The dinosaur had a long tail, which was typical for early dinosaurs.
- Habitat: It lived in what was likely a hot, dry environment with seasonal wildfires.
- Discovery: Its remains were found in 2019 in the northern part of Zimbabwe.
- Era: The fossils date back to around 230 million years ago, during the Late Triassic period.
- Significance: Mbiresaurus provides insights into early dinosaur evolution.
- Mbiresaurus is one of the oldest-known dinosaur species.
2. Whip System
(Source – Indian Express, Section – Express Network- Page No. – 06)
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Analysis of the news:
Party Whips in Practice
- In parliamentary politics, party whips are crucial for ensuring party discipline, especially during important votes.
- MPs are often required to adhere to the party line, with noncompliance leading to consequences such as expulsion.
- This system is seen as essential for maintaining the integrity of party positions on key issues.
Origins and History of Whips
Etymology of “Whip”
- The term originates from England’s hunting tradition, where a “whipper-in” managed hounds.
- Politically, it was popularized by Edmund Burke, who described the effort of “whipping in” followers to align them with party goals.
Introduction in India
- India adopted the whip system during its parliamentary formation. It ensures party cohesion and demonstrates majority strength in crucial divisions.
- Violating a whip, particularly a strict three-line whip, can lead to disqualification under the Anti-Defection Law, a key provision of Indian democracy since 1985.
Types and Enforcement of Whips
Kinds of Whips
- One-line whip: Informs members about a vote, allowing abstention.
- Two-line whip: Requests presence but permits voting discretion.
- Three-line whip: Mandates attendance and voting as per the party line.
Enforcement Mechanism
- The party’s chief whip communicates directives to MPs, ensuring attendance and adherence.
- The Minister of Parliamentary Affairs oversees the system, coordinating compliance among ruling alliance members.
Importance of the Whip System
Democracy and Stability
- The whip system is vital for parliamentary functioning and party discipline.
- It ensures coherent policymaking and strengthens party accountability.
- Former Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan emphasized that MPs elected on a party ticket must align with their party’s ideology or exit.
Whips Conference
- Since 1952, the All-India Whips Conference has provided a platform for whips across parties to share perspectives.
- This forum, organized by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, reinforces the whip system’s role in safeguarding democratic processes.
3. Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)
(Source – Indian Express, Section – Express Network- Page No. – 06)
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Analysis of the news:
What is Guillain-Barre Syndrome?
- GBS is a serious autoimmune disorder that affects the peripheral nervous system. It initially presents weakness, tingling, and numbness in the limbs, which can progress to paralysis lasting 6-12 months or longer.
- The syndrome affects the nerves responsible for muscle movement, pain, temperature, and touch sensations.
- While more common in adults and males, GBS can occur in individuals of all ages.
- Cause: The exact cause of GBS is unknown, but as per the World Health Organisation (WHO), GBS is often preceded by an infection. This could be a bacterial or viral infection. This leads the immune system to attack the body itself.
- In rare cases, vaccinations and surgery may slightly increase the risk of developing GBS, but the likelihood of this happening is very low.
- Studies have shown that the risk of getting GBS from infections like the flu is much higher than the risk from vaccines, such as the flu vaccine.
- Treatment: GBS treatment involves procedures like plasmapheresis, which removes plasma and replaces it with other fluids.
4. Paraquat Poisoning
(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained- Page No. – 12)
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Analysis of the news:
What is Paraquat?
- Description: Paraquat, also known as paraquat dichloride or methyl viologen, is a widely used herbicide for weed control and crop desiccation.
- Hazards: The WHO classifies it as a Category 2 (moderately hazardous) chemical. It is banned in over 70 countries, including the EU and China, but remains widely used in India and the US.
- Toxicity: According to the US EPA, even a small accidental sip can be fatal. Some studies suggest a link between paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s Disease.
Modes of Poisoning and Symptoms
- Exposure:
- Ingestion: Most common and highly fatal.
- Skin Contact: Prolonged exposure can lead to absorption.
- Inhalation: Can cause respiratory issues.
- Symptoms:
- Immediate signs include abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, mouth and throat swelling, and nausea.
- Prolonged exposure can cause kidney, liver, lung, and heart damage, seizures, and respiratory failure.
Treatment for Paraquat Poisoning
- Immediate Response:
- Swallowing activated charcoal or Fuller’s earth to bind the chemical.
- Thorough washing of exposed areas with soap and water.
- Cutting and safely disposing of contaminated clothing.
- Medical Interventions:
- No specific antidote exists.
- Immunosuppression or charcoal hemoperfusion has been studied as potential treatments.
Regulation and Restrictions
- United States: Paraquat sales are limited to licensed commercial users, with safety measures like blue dye, strong odor, and a vomiting agent added to the chemical.
- India: Governed by the Central Insecticides Board under the Insecticides Act of 1968. A 2021 notification restricts its use to crops like wheat, rice, tea, coffee, and apples, among others. However, enforcement is weak, and untrained applicators often store it unsafely.
Check more- 25 January 2025 : Daily Current Affairs
