5 July 2024 : Daily Current Affairs

1. Jaishankar meets Wang Yi, says LAC must be respected and peace ensured

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

Topic: GS2 – International relations – Bilateral relations

Context

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi discussed boundary issues and the need for mutual respect at the SCO Council meeting. Both emphasised the importance of resolving the border standoff in Eastern Ladakh to restore bilateral relations and ensure peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Analysis of the news:

• External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of the SCO Council meeting, their first meeting since the Lok Sabha election.
• Both sides emphasised the importance of “mutual respect” in resolving boundary issues and maintaining peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Line of Actual Control (LAC)

The Line of Actual Control (LAC) is the demarcation line that separates Indian-controlled territory from Chinese-controlled territory in the disputed border areas. It spans approximately 3,488 kilometres (2,167 miles) across the Himalayan region. The LAC is divided into three sectors: the western sector in Ladakh, the middle sector in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, and the eastern sector in Arunachal Pradesh. The LAC remains a contentious and sensitive military frontier.

• Jaishankar stressed the need for respecting the LAC and ensuring peace and tranquillity in border areas.
• The Ministers agreed that prolonging the current border situation is not in either side’s interest and called for complete disengagement in Eastern Ladakh to restore normalcy in bilateral relations.
• Despite multiple meetings, talks have not resolved the standoff, particularly at the Demchok and Depsang sectors.
• The Chinese MFA highlighted the need for handling the border situation properly while resuming normal exchanges.
• The leaders discussed the global situation and India’s support for China’s presidency of the SCO in 2025.
• Jaishankar reiterated the Prime Minister’s address emphasising the SCO’s respect for sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
• The Indian Prime Minister’s address also highlighted the importance of combating terrorism, indirectly referring to Pakistan.

Border issues between India – China:

Contentious Regions: Aksai Chin: Administered by China, claimed by India as part of Ladakh.Arunachal Pradesh: Administered by India, claimed by China as South Tibet. Sikkim Border: Tensions over Doklam plateau, where Bhutan also has territorial claims. Issues Associated: Historical Disputes: Rooted in differing interpretations of colonial-era agreements and the absence of a mutually accepted border. Strategic Infrastructure: Both nations are rapidly developing infrastructure near the border, leading to military standoffs. Military Build-up: Increased troop deployments and fortifications on both sides escalate tensions and risk conflicts. Economic Impacts: Disputes disrupt trade and economic cooperation, impacting regional stability. Political Ramifications: Nationalistic sentiments in both countries complicate diplomatic negotiations. Environmental Concerns: Militarization and infrastructure projects in fragile Himalayan ecosystems pose environmental risks. Border Management: Frequent skirmishes and patrol clashes necessitate enhanced border management protocols to avoid escalation.

PYQ: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is viewed as a cardinal subset of China’s larger ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative. Give a brief description of CPEC and enumerate the reasons why India has distanced itself from the same. (150 words/10m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-3 2018)

Practice Question:  Discuss the major contentious regions and associated issues in the India-China border dispute. Also analyse the impact of infrastructure development on the India-China border disputes.  (250 Words /15 marks)

2. Can’t ask for Collegium’s reasons for rejecting candidates, says HC

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 5)

Topic: GS2 – Indian Polity – Judiciary

Context

The Delhi High Court upheld that reasons for rejecting High Court judge appointments by the Supreme Court Collegium cannot be disclosed publicly to protect individuals’ interests and maintain the appointment process integrity. The ruling dismissed an appeal seeking detailed reasons for rejection, affirming the Collegium’s autonomy in decision-making.

Analysis of the news:

• The Delhi High Court ruled that reasons for rejecting High Court judge appointment recommendations by the Supreme Court Collegium cannot be made public.

Collegium process for the appointment of judges:

The Collegium system in India involves a group of senior judges of the Supreme Court recommending appointments and transfers of judges in higher judiciary. It evolved through judicial interpretation rather than explicit constitutional provisions. The Chief Justice of India, along with four senior-most judges, forms the Collegium. Recommendations are based on the candidates’ seniority, competence, and suitability, and the President of India’s approval is required for appointments.

• Revealing these reasons would harm the interests of the individuals concerned and impede the appointment process.
• The court dismissed an appeal challenging an earlier order that denied a petition seeking detailed reasons for such rejections from the Collegium.
• The Bench stated that judge appointments are an “integrated, consultative and non-adversarial process,” not subject to judicial challenge unless there is a lack of consultation with constitutional functionaries or eligibility issues.
• Making rejection reasons public would damage the reputations of those considered, as the Collegium’s decisions are based on private information.
• Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela upheld the single judge Bench’s position that the court cannot overrule the Supreme Court Collegium’s subjective decisions.

Pros and cons of collegium system:

Pros: Judicial Independence: Reduces executive interference in judicial appointments, safeguarding judiciary’s autonomy. Merit-Based Selection: Emphasises competence and seniority in judicial appointments, potentially ensuring qualified judges. Expertise in Judicial Matters: The Collegium comprises senior judges who possess deep knowledge and experience in legal and judicial matters, ensuring that appointments are made with a thorough understanding of the judiciary’s needs and standards. Stability in Judiciary: By involving senior judges in the decision-making process, the Collegium system aims to promote stability within the judiciary, as decisions regarding appointments and transfers are made by those with a long-term perspective on judicial functioning and continuity. Cons: Lack of Transparency: Criticised for opaque decision-making processes without public accountability. Potential Nepotism: Allegations of favouritism or decisions influenced by personal relationships rather than merit. Democratic Deficit: Sidelines the role of the executive and legislature in judicial appointments, raising concerns about democratic principles. Inefficiency: Delays in appointments and transfers due to prolonged deliberations within the Collegium. Inadequate Representation: Criticised for not adequately reflecting diversity in the judiciary, including regional, gender, and minority representation. The Collegium system has been a subject of debate, with calls for reforms to enhance transparency and accountability while preserving judicial independence.

Practice Question:  Evaluate the Collegium system for appointing judges in India, highlighting its benefits, criticisms, and suggested reforms. (250 Words /15 marks)

3. Industry Ministry pushes for lower duties on input imports

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 12)

Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy – Changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.

Context

The Commerce and Industry Ministry seeks to reduce high import tariffs on electronic inputs to enhance competitiveness under the PLI scheme, while maintaining FDI restrictions from bordering countries, amid industry calls for policy revisions to boost electronics production.

Analysis of the news:

• The Commerce and Industry Ministry advocates reducing high tariffs on importing inputs for electronics and other sectors.
• The aim is to address industry concerns that high tariffs will negate benefits from the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, making India less competitive compared to China and Vietnam.
• DPIIT Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh stated there are no plans to reconsider FDI restrictions from countries sharing land borders with India.
• The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) recently reported that the FDI curbs are no longer necessary and suggested revising them with proper safeguards.
• The CII also recommended reducing duties on electronic components.
• DPIIT supports phasing out duty inversion and high import tariffs on inputs, not just for electronics but potentially for other sectors as well.
• This approach is intended to make Indian industries more competitive by lowering production costs and enhancing the overall investment climate.

Practice Question:  Critically analyse the impact of high import tariffs and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) restrictions on India’s electronics sector in the context of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. How do these policies affect India’s competitiveness against countries like China and Vietnam? (250 Words /15 marks)

4. Florida Carpenter Ants Exhibit Remarkable Amputation Behavior to Treat Combat Injuries, Enhance Colony Survival

(Source: Indian Express; Section: The World)

Topic: GS3 – Environment

Context:

Florida carpenter ants are known for their aggressive territorial behavior, often engaging in violent confrontations with ants from rival colonies in the Southeast. These battles frequently result in injuries, particularly to the ants’ legs. However, these ants have developed a remarkable method to deal with such injuries: amputation.

Analysis of News:

Evolution of Amputation as a Wound Treatment

• As reported in the journal Current Biology, researchers have discovered that Florida carpenter ants bite off the injured limbs of their nestmates to prevent infection.
• While other ant species tend to clean wounds by licking them, this is the first recorded instance of an ant species using amputation as a treatment method.
• The ants’ methodical approach to amputation suggests a sophisticated level of behavior previously undocumented in insects.

Methodical Surgical Practices:

• The ants in the study were observed performing amputations only on certain leg injuries, particularly those affecting the thighs.
• This selective behavior indicates that the ants are deliberate and precise in their surgical practices.
• The prevalence of this behavior among Florida carpenter ants raises intriguing questions about their intelligence and capacity to feel pain.

Discovery and Initial Skepticism

• The discovery was made in early 2020 by Dany Buffat, then a graduate student at the University of Würzburg in Germany.
• Buffat observed an ant biting off another ant’s leg in his lab colony, a phenomenon initially met with skepticism by his adviser.
• However, further observation confirmed the behavior, leading to an investigation into the survival rates of the amputees.

High Survival Rates and Consensual Amputation

• Unexpectedly, the survival rate of ants with amputated limbs was found to be 90%.
• Remarkably, the amputations appeared to be consensual, with injured ants presenting their legs to be gnawed off and then having the wound cleaned by their nestmates.
• This cooperative behavior highlights a complex social structure and advanced care strategies within the ant colony.

Specificity of Thigh Amputations

• The researchers noted that amputations were performed only on ants with thigh injuries.
• To understand this specificity, they conducted experiments on ants with lower leg injuries, finding a significantly lower survival rate of 20%.
• This led to the conclusion that thigh injuries, being closer to the body, reduce hemolymph flow, thus lowering the risk of bacterial infection if the leg is amputated quickly.

Hemolymph Flow and Infection Risk

• Micro-CT scans revealed that Florida carpenter ants have several muscles in their thighs that maintain the flow of hemolymph, their equivalent of blood.
• A thigh injury reduces this flow, making it harder for bacteria to spread from the wound into the body.
• Consequently, a swift amputation in such cases minimizes the risk of infection. In contrast, lower leg injuries allow bacteria to penetrate the body more easily, making successful amputation less likely.

Implications for Ant Behavior and Colony Health

• This discovery underscores the complexity of ant behavior and their evolved strategies for colony health.
• The ability to perform amputations benefits the entire colony by saving lives and preventing the spread of pathogens.
• As noted by  experts in social organisms, this behavior is likely not unique to Florida carpenter ants and could be present in other ant species as well.

Conclusion

• The brutal yet sophisticated life of a Florida carpenter ant reveals a fascinating aspect of insect behavior and evolution.
• The ants’ evolved practice of amputating injured limbs to prevent infection demonstrates a high level of social cooperation and medical strategy, contributing to the overall health and survival of the colony.
• This remarkable behavior challenges our understanding of animal intelligence and opens new avenues for research into social insects.

PYQ: UPSC Prelims 2022 Question:   Certain species of which one of the following organisms are well known as cultivators of fungi?   a) Ant b) Cockroach c) Crab d) Spider Ans: a

Practice Question:  Discuss the evolutionary significance and implications of the amputation behavior observed in Florida carpenter ants as a response to combat injuries. How does this behavior reflect on the social structure, intelligence, and survival strategies within ant colonies? (250 words/15 m)

5. Union Health Ministry to Enhance Legal Awareness for Foreign Nationals Seeking Organ Transplants in India

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Express Network; Page: 09)

Topic: GS2 – Governance – Government policies – Interventions for development in various sectors

Context:

The Union Health Ministry of India has reached out to the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs to ensure that foreign nationals seeking organ transplants in India are well-informed about the key legal requirements and regulations governing such procedures in the country. This initiative aims to address the increasing influx of international patients drawn by India’s world-class health facilities and highly skilled medical professionals.

Analysis of News:                               

Communication and Dissemination Strategy

• In letters sent last month, the Health Ministry emphasized the need to sensitize foreign nationals about the legalities of organ transplants in India.
• To achieve this, the ministry has prepared informative scroll messages and creatives intended for widespread dissemination.
• The letters specifically request the home secretary to display these messages on the Bureau of Immigration’s websites and portals and the foreign secretary to ensure their visibility at airports and on the Ministry of External Affairs’ websites, as well as Indian Embassies and Missions abroad.

Background and Context:

• This development follows two significant incidents of legal violations under the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act (THOT).
• In Rajasthan, fake No Objection Certificates (NOCs) were issued to Bangladeshi nationals, and in Delhi, poor Myanmar nationals were reportedly paid to donate kidneys.
• These cases highlighted the need for better awareness and stricter enforcement of transplant laws among foreign nationals coming to India.

What Does the THOT Act, 1994 Say?

• The law governs the transplantation of human organs and tissues in India, including the donation of organs after death.
• It lays down regulations governing healthcare providers and hospitals, and stipulates penalties for violations.

Organ Donors and Recipients:

• A transplant can be either from a pool of organs of deceased persons donated by their relatives or from a living person who is known to the recipient.
• In most cases, the Act allows living donations from close relatives such as parents, siblings, children, spouses, grandparents, and grandchildren.

Donations From Distant Relatives and Foreigners:

• Altruistic donations from distant relatives, in-laws, or long-time friends are allowed after additional scrutiny to ensure there is no financial exchange.
• Living donations from close relatives involving Indians or foreigners must be accompanied by documents establishing their identities, family trees, and pictures that prove the donor-recipient relationship.
• Donors and recipients are also interviewed.

Donations from Unrelated Persons:

• Donations from unrelated persons require documents and photographic evidence to prove their long-term association or friendship with the recipient.
• These are examined by an external committee to prevent illegal dealings.

Fines and Punishments:

• Offering to pay for organs or supplying them for payment; initiating, negotiating, or advertising such arrangements; looking for persons to supply organs; and abetting in preparing false documents can attract a jail term up to 10 years and a fine up to Rs 1 crore.

Formation of NOTTO:

• National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO) is a National level organization set up under Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family.
• This has been mandated as per the Transplantation of Human Organs (Amendment) Act 2011.
• National Network division of NOTTO would function as apex centre for All India activities of coordination and networking for procurement and distribution of Organs and Tissues and registry of Organs and Tissues Donation and Transplantation in the country.

Importance of Legal Awareness

• Officials have recognized the importance of informing foreign nationals about Indian laws concerning organ transplants.
• The primary goal is to ensure that these transplants are conducted legally and ethically.
• The prepared information scroll includes several key points to help foreign patients understand and comply with the legal requirements.

Key Legal Points for Foreign Nationals

The scroll messages contain crucial information for foreign nationals seeking organ transplants in India:

• Medical Visa Requirement: Foreign patients must enter India on a medical visa if they intend to undergo an organ transplant.
• Age and Donor Restrictions: All donors must be over the age of 18, and Indian living donors cannot give organs to foreign nationals unless they are near relatives.
• Deceased Donor Registration: Foreign patients can register to receive organs from deceased donors. However, they will only be considered if no Indian patient is available to receive the organ.
• Prohibition of Commercial Deals: Commercial dealing in human organs or tissues is strictly prohibited and is a punishable offense in India.

Conclusion

• The Union Health Ministry’s proactive steps to disseminate information on organ transplant laws are crucial in preventing legal violations and ensuring ethical medical practices.
• By making foreign nationals aware of the regulations, India aims to maintain its reputation as a leading destination for medical tourism while safeguarding the integrity of its healthcare system.

What Do the THOT Rules, 2014 Say?

Authorisation Committee: Rule 7 of the 2014 Rules provides for the constitution of the Authorisation Committee and the nature of enquiry and evaluation conducted by it. Rule 7(3) says the Committee must ensure there is no commercial transaction involved in cases where the donor and recipient are not near relatives. Rule 7(5) says that if a recipient is in a critical condition and needs transplantation within a week, the hospital can be approached for an expedited evaluation. Living Donor Transplantations: For living donor transplantations, Rule 10 describes the application process, which requires joint applications by the donor and recipient. Rule 21 requires the Committee to personally interview applicants and determine their eligibility to donate.

Practice Question:  Discuss the recent measures taken by the Union Health Ministry to ensure foreign nationals are aware of the legal requirements for organ transplants in India. What are the implications of these measures on India’s medical tourism and healthcare ethics? (250 words/15 m)

6. India Emphasizes SCO’s Importance in Foreign Policy Amidst Complex Geopolitical Dynamics

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

Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Important International institutions, agencies and fora – their structure, mandate.

Context:

On 4th July (Thursday), the concluding day of the two-day Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. These discussions are part of ongoing diplomatic efforts amidst complex regional dynamics. Jaishankar’s participation and subsequent remarks on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored India’s commitment to the SCO, highlighting its importance in India’s foreign policy framework. Additionally, Jaishankar extended congratulations to Belarus for becoming the newest member of the SCO.

Analysis of News:                               

What is the SCO?

Origins and Evolution

• The SCO originated from the “Shanghai Five” grouping, established in 1996, which included China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.
• This grouping was formed in response to the geopolitical shifts following the dissolution of the USSR in 1991, particularly concerns over extremist religious groups and ethnic tensions in the region.
• The primary focus was on security cooperation. Building on these foundations, the SCO was formally established in Shanghai on June 15, 2001, as an international organization.
• Before Belarus’s inclusion, the SCO comprised nine members: India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

Why is the SCO Significant?

A Unique Focus on Security

• The SCO is one of the few international organizations centered on security issues, primarily comprising Asian member states.
• Both Russia and China emphasize the SCO as a counterbalance to Western-dominated international order.
• For instance, China’s state media highlighted Iran’s inclusion in the SCO as a strategic move to counter the US diplomatic blockade.

Geopolitical Rivalries and Cooperation

• Despite declarations of a “limitless friendship” between China and Russia, there is underlying competition for influence within the SCO.
• Central Asian republics, historically within Russia’s sphere of influence, are now also courted by China, particularly through investments in infrastructure projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
• The simultaneous inclusion of India and Pakistan in 2017 illustrates this geopolitical jostling: Russia supported India, a strategic partner, while China backed Pakistan to maintain a balance of power.

Context of Recent Expansion

• The SCO’s recent expansion occurs against a backdrop of deteriorating US relations with Russia and China, exacerbated by the 2022 Russia-Ukraine War and ongoing trade tensions with China.
• This expansion reflects the SCO’s growing importance in global geopolitics, offering a platform for member states to navigate these complexities.

Relevance for India

Strategic and Diplomatic Engagement

• SCO membership provides India with a forum to enhance cooperation with Central Asian countries, which have not had particularly close ties with India since their independence in 1991.
• However, India’s relationships with fellow members China and Pakistan present significant challenges.

Contentious Issues and Strategic Interests

• A notable point of contention is India’s refusal to endorse the Belt and Road Initiative, as articulated in the New Delhi Declaration at the end of the 2023 summit.
• India’s opposition stems from the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a component of the BRI that passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, which India views as an infringement on its territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Overall, the SCO serves as a critical platform for India to navigate complex regional dynamics, engage with Central Asian countries, and address security concerns while balancing its strategic interests amid ongoing geopolitical rivalries.

What is the Importance of SCO for India?

Economic Cooperation: The SCO provides a platform for India to enhance economic cooperation with Central Asian countries, which have vast reserves of natural resources. India is seeking to increase its trade and investment ties with the SCO countries to diversify its economic partnerships. Energy Security: Central Asia has vast reserves of oil and gas, and India is looking to tap into these resources to enhance its energy security. The SCO provides a forum for India to engage with the energy-rich countries of Central Asia and explore opportunities for cooperation in the energy sector. The Samarkand Declaration, signed at the 22nd Summit, centralizes connectivity which is a priority for India, as well as energy and food security. Cultural Cooperation: The total Cultural Heritage of the SCO member states, observers and partners include 207 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. SCO member countries have decided to designate one city (from SCO member countries) as tourism and cultural capital every year under a rotating initiative.“Kashi” (Varanasi) has been designated as the first cultural capital of the SCO under this initiative. Counterterrorism: The SCO has a strong focus on counterterrorism cooperation. India, which has been a victim of terrorism, can benefit from the collective efforts of the organization to combat terrorism in the region.

PYQ: Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold for India? (250 words/15m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-2 2021)

Practice Question:  Examine the significance of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in India’s foreign policy. Discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by India’s membership in the SCO, particularly in the context of its relations with China and Pakistan. (250 words/15 m)

Prelims Facts

1. ‘Brain-eating amoeba’ claims Kerala boy’s life

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 3)

Context

A 12-year-old boy from Feroke died from primary amoebic meningoencephalitis, the third such death in Kerala in two months. The infection, caused by Naegleria fowleri, prompted the Health Department to plan new treatment guidelines.

Brain-Eating Amoeba:

• Naegleria fowleri, known as the “brain-eating amoeba,” is a free-living microorganism found in warm fresh water like lakes and hot springs.
• It infects humans by entering the nose, typically during swimming or diving, and travels to the brain, causing primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).
• Symptoms include headache, fever, nausea, and seizures.
• The infection is rare but almost always fatal, necessitating prompt medical attention and awareness for prevention.

2. Brahmaputra’s lone female gharial’s long wait for a mate could end soon

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

Context

In Kaziranga National Park, a lone female gharial has been discovered in the Brahmaputra River, potentially crucial for reintroducing the species. Wildlife experts aim to reintroduce gharials, previously believed extinct in the Brahmaputra since the 1950s, through a proposed breeding program pending approval.

Analysis of the news:

A lone female gharial has become the key to repopulating the Brahmaputra river with gharials.

• Species Name: Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus)
• Physical Characteristics: Long, narrow snout adapted for catching fish; males can grow up to 6 metres in length, while females are smaller.
• Habitat: Found in major river systems of the northern Indian subcontinent, such as the Narmada, Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus rivers.
• Diet: Primarily piscivorous, feeding on fish; specialised jaw structure aids in catching and consuming prey.
• Conservation Status: Critically endangered on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss, pollution, and human interference.
• Conservation Efforts: Includes captive breeding programs at centres like the Kukrail Gharial Rehabilitation Centre near Lucknow.
• Reintroduction Efforts: Proposed reintroduction in suitable habitats like Kaziranga National Park to bolster wild populations.
• Legal Protection: Protected under Indian law to prevent hunting and trade, aimed at ensuring their survival and recovery in the wild.

3. Radiationbiodosimetry: the ABCs of responding to a radiological event

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

Context

Scientists have discovered that, after a radiological or nuclear incident, rapid biodosimetry methods can be crucial to assess radiation exposure levels swiftly, enabling timely medical interventions and managing public concerns effectively.

Radiationbiodosimetry:

• Radiation biodosimetry refers to the process of assessing and quantifying the amount of radiation exposure an individual has received following a radiological or nuclear incident.
• This evaluation is crucial for determining appropriate and timely medical interventions for individuals based on their radiation dose levels.
• Techniques such as the Dicentric Chromosome Assay (DCA), Cytokinesis Block Micronucleus Assay (CBMN), and gamma-H2AX assay are used to measure biological markers indicative of radiation damage in cells, aiding in timely and effective response efforts.

2. PMML Adopts New Policy on Declassification Conditions for Donated Private Papers

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

Context:

The Prime Ministers’ Museum & Library (PMML) recently announced a significant policy shift: it will no longer allow future donors of private papers from eminent personalities to impose indefinite conditions on the declassification of such material. This decision comes in response to past incidents, such as in 2008 when Congress leader Sonia Gandhi reclaimed boxes of papers from Jawaharlal Nehru’s Private Collection and restricted access to several sets of these papers.

Analysis of News:

Nehru’s Papers at the PMML

Origins and Transfers

• The Jawaharlal Nehru Papers were the first set of private papers acquired by PMML, initially established as the Nehru Memorial Museum & Library (NMML) in memory of India’s first Prime Minister.
• These papers, covering both pre-Independence and post-Independence periods, were transferred to PMML in several batches starting in 1971.
• The Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund (JNMF) facilitated the transfer on behalf of Nehru’s legal heir, Indira Gandhi, who remained the owner until her assassination in 1984. Later, a significant collection of Nehru’s papers from the post-1946 period was handed over to PMML by Sonia Gandhi.

Private Papers vs. Personal Papers

Distinctions and Significance

• Private papers, distinct from personal papers, have been donated by families, institutions, universities, and other private donors.
• These papers are invaluable for an accurate understanding of the lives and times of notable personalities and essential for comprehending India’s modern history and landmark moments.
• Custodians of these archives highlight that there are essential differences between personal correspondence and private collections.
• For example, a Prime Minister’s correspondence with other eminent personalities or institutions is considered part of their private collection if owned by their family or other private individuals.
• Official records, held by various government departments and ministries, comprise another set of papers, including letters, records, and file notings on the workings of central and state governments.

PMML’s Collection of Private Papers

Diverse and Extensive Holdings

• The PMML boasts the largest collection of private papers in India, originally belonging to around 1,000 personalities of modern India.
• Its collection includes papers of Mahatma Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Bhikaji Cama, and others.
• Among its recent acquisitions are papers of former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Shanta Kumar, including letters written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on significant topics such as the abrogation of Article 370 and Indo-Pak relations.

About Prime Ministers’ Museum and Library (PMML) Society

Status: It is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. Location: It is housed in the historic Teen Murti campus located south of Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. PMML is dedicated to the objective of promoting advanced research on Modern and Contemporary India. History: Designed by Robert Tor Russel and built in 1929-30 as part of Edwin Lutyens’ imperial capital, Teen Murti House was the official residence of the Commander-in-Chief in India. In August 1948, after the departure of the last British Commander-in-Chief, Teen Murti House became the official residence of independent India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, who lived here for sixteen years until his death on May 27, 1964. On Jawaharlal Nehru’s 75th birth anniversary on November 14, 1964 Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan, President of India, formally dedicated the Teen Murti House to the nation and inaugurated the Nehru Memorial Museum. On 1 April 1966, the Government set up the Prime Ministers Museum and Library (PMML) Society to manage the institution. PMML has four major constituents, namely- Memorial Museum; Library on modern India; Centre for Contemporary Studies; Nehru Planetarium; Administration: The General Council and the President and the Vice-President of the PMML Society are nominated by the Central Government.

3. India’s LNG Imports Hit Four-Year High in June Amid Surging Power Demand

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Economy; Page: 19)

Context:

India’s imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) reached nearly a four-year high in June, driven by the need for higher electricity production during a severe heatwave. Gas-based power plants operated at higher-than-usual capacity, prompted by reasonable LNG prices, ample availability in the international spot market, and the government’s push to increase power production to meet the surging summer demand. This resulted in India importing 2.60 million tonnes (mt) of LNG in June, the highest in 44 months, as per data from commodity market analytics firm Kpler.

Analysis of News:

Increased Utilization of Gas-Based Power Plants

Significant Rise in Power Generation

• According to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), power generation from gas-based units in June was 4.60 billion units, a nearly 52% increase from 3.03 billion units in June 2023.
• For the April-June quarter, power generation by gas-based plants surged by 62.5% year-on-year to 13.49 billion units.
• The overall plant load factor (PLF) for gas-based plants in Q1 was almost 25%, up from 15.3% in the same quarter the previous year. In June alone, the PLF rose to 25.8% from 17% in June 2023.

Domestic vs. Imported LNG Usage

Balance Between Domestic Production and Imports

• Gas-based power plants in India use both domestic natural gas and imported LNG as feedstock. In June 2023, over 53% of the natural gas consumed by gas-based power plants was imported LNG.
• By April 2024, this figure had risen to nearly 56%. Despite domestic production meeting only around half of India’s total gas consumption, cheaper local gas is prioritized for sectors like city gas distribution and fertilizers, leaving the power sector more reliant on costlier imported LNG.
• Consequently, gas-based power plants have historically operated at low capacity due to unfavorable economics.