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GS Paper: GS1

  • Why are the Marathas mobilising now?

    The Marathas' Demand for Reservation: A Litigation History [2014-21] - Supreme Court Observer

    Central Idea:

    • The Maratha community’s demand for reservation in education and employment stems from a crisis of dominance, influenced by urban and rural challenges.

    Urban Crisis:

    • Well-paid jobs in urban areas, historically held by Marathas, have rapidly disappeared since the late 1990s.
    • Large-scale manufacturing industries and establishments providing such jobs have closed or downsized, leading to increased competition for fewer opportunities.
    • Marathas, historically socially superior, used their dominant caste position to secure a significant share of jobs, particularly in the public sector.
    • Economic liberalization and the shrinkage of public sector jobs have intensified competition among Marathas for limited opportunities.

    Rural Crisis:

    • Closure of factories has led to the return of workers to villages, disrupting the pattern of workers retiring in villages and their offspring working in cities.
    • Rural youth face challenges migrating to urban areas for better-paying jobs, impacting the financial support they traditionally provided to family members in villages.
    • Informal sector jobs become the primary option for rural Maratha youth, diminishing their social standing and pride in rural settings.
    • The focus on secure public sector jobs, which have also decreased, becomes crucial for rural Maratha youth.

    Maratha quota agitation | OBC leaders warn Shinde govt. of trying to grab their reservation - The Hindu

    Education Challenges:

    • Increased aspirations for higher education among Marathas face a decline in government institutions and a rise in private unaided colleges with exorbitant fees.
    • Marathas, with limited financial resources, compete for a limited number of open-category seats in public institutions.
    • Decrease in government-run educational institutions exacerbates the challenges faced by Maratha aspirants.

    Crisis of Dominance:

    • The combination of urban and rural crises contributes to a crisis of dominance for the Marathas.
    • Disturbance of caste hierarchy norms due to Dalit mobility and OBC economic and political assertion adds to Marathas’ anxiety.
    • The demand for reservation reflects the need for increased formal sector jobs and the expansion of public educational institutions to address the crisis.

    Key Highlights:

    • Maratha community demands reservation in education and public employment, intensifying since 2016.
    • Historically, Marathas dominated well-paid jobs, but recent urban and rural crises have led to increased competition and challenges.
    • Closure of manufacturing industries, decreasing public sector jobs, and rural youth’s struggles contribute to the crisis.
    • Educational aspirations face challenges with a decline in government institutions and increased private college fees.

    Key Challenges:

    • Disappearance of well-paid urban jobs, increased competition, and shrinking public sector employment.
    • Rural crisis disrupts the traditional pattern of workers retiring in villages and offspring working in cities.
    • Decline in government-run educational institutions, limited open-category seats, and rising private college fees.

    Key Terms and Phrases:

    • Urban crisis, rural crisis, crisis of dominance, economic liberalization, formal sector jobs.
    • Reservation, Maratha mobilization, well-paid jobs, private unaided colleges, public sector employment.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Maratha protests since 2016, closure of manufacturing industries, decreased public sector jobs.
    • Disturbance in traditional caste hierarchies due to Dalit mobility and OBC economic and political assertion.

    Key Facts and Data:

    • Marathas historically occupied over 29% of open-category jobs in government.
    • Jobs in the private formal sector increased from 2% to 3.5%.
    • Contractual government jobs increased from 0.7 million to 15.9 million in 2017-18.
    • Only 22.2% of colleges are managed by the government as of 2019.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Maratha crisis stems from economic shifts, urban-rural dynamics, and disturbance in caste hierarchies.
    • Limited opportunities, competition, and declining public sector jobs contribute to the community’s mobilization.
    • Educational challenges add to the complexity, demanding a comprehensive solution.

    Way Forward:

    • Address urban and rural crises by creating more formal sector jobs.
    • Expand public educational institutions and implement large-scale scholarship programs.
    • Focus on inclusive policies to reduce competition and restore traditional patterns of employment.

    Conclusion:

    • The Maratha mobilization for reservation is rooted in the challenges posed by the disappearance of well-paid jobs, urban-rural dynamics, and the disruption of traditional caste hierarchies. Addressing these challenges requires a focus on creating more opportunities in the formal sector and expanding accessible public education.

  • In news: Guru Nanak Jayanti

    guru nanak

    Central Idea

    • Guru Nanak Jayanti commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism and the first of its ten Gurus.
    • It is celebrated worldwide as Guru Nanak Gurpurab on Kartik Poornima, the full-moon day in the month of Katak (October–November).

    Five Key Aspects of Guru Nanak’s Life

    [1] Early Life and Philosophical Inclination:

    • Born on April 15, 1469, in a Hindu family in Nankana Sahib (now in Pakistan).
    • Displayed an early interest in philosophical and spiritual questions.
    • Worked as an accountant before embarking on a spiritual journey with a Muslim minstrel, Mardana.

    [2] Mystical Experience at Age 30:

    • Had a transformative spiritual experience during an early morning ablution by a river.
    • Received a divine mission to spread a message of unity and devotion.
    • Emerged after three days with the profound declaration, “There is no Hindu, there is no Mussalman.”

    [3] Extensive Travels and Interfaith Dialogue:

    • Traveled widely, including to Sri Lanka, Baghdad, and Mecca, on journeys called ‘udaasis’.
    • Engaged with various religious figures, including Hindu pandits and Sufi saints.
    • Advocated for the oneness of God and universal brotherhood.

    [4] Preaching the Oneness of God:

    • Emphasized the unity of humanity and the presence of one God in all.
    • Challenged religious orthodoxy and rituals, promoting a direct connection with the divine.
    • His teachings laid the foundation for Sikhism, attracting followers from diverse backgrounds.
    • His teachings and hymns are compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism.
    • He wrote in Punjabi, using a script known as Gurmukhi.

    [5] Succession and Legacy:

    • Spent his final years in Kartarpur, establishing a community with daily prayers and hymns.
    • Introduced the practice of ‘langar’, a communal kitchen serving free meals.
    • Chose Lehna (later Guru Angad) as his successor, bypassing his own sons.
    • Passed away on September 22, 1539, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual and social reform.

  • For government schemes, a path to dignity for the poor

    BrightCareerMaker

    Key Highlights:

    • India’s Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system lauded globally as a “logistical marvel.”
    • DBT utilizes digital infrastructure to directly transfer government scheme benefits, covering 310 schemes across 53 ministries.
    • The JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile) post-2017-18 maximized DBT’s impact.

    Dignity of the Poor:

    • DBT’s overlooked benefit is its preservation of the dignity of the poor.
    • Without corruption or leakages, DBT eliminates the need for the poor to parade for government benefits.
    • Shift in approach—government benefits reaching the poor directly without intermediaries.

    Poverty Perspectives and Historical Context:

    • Discussion on poverty perspectives, referencing Michael Young’s “The Rise of The Meritocracy.”
    • Challenge to the prevailing view that poverty is an individual’s fault, offering an alternative, rights-based approach.
    • Advocacy for understanding poverty from an individual rights perspective and addressing historical contexts.

    Rights-Based Approach to Poverty:

    • Recognition of basic security rights for citizens regarding food, shelter, and health.
    • Emphasis on shared societal responsibility for poverty, especially by the rich and elite.
    • Contrast with technical solutions, highlighting the need to work with the poor.

    Preserving Dignity in Design:

    • Importance of not just providing benefits but also considering how they are delivered.
    • DBT as a mechanism that ensures rightful benefits reach the poor while preserving their dignity.
    • Elimination of the poverty parade with the government reaching the poor.

    Replicating DBT Success:

    • Suggestion to replicate the DBT design in other areas, with a focus on the judiciary.
    • Reference to the judiciary’s challenges and an appeal to ensure justice reaches the poor efficiently.
    • Call for collective efforts to address complex problems.

    Challenges:

    • Unquantifiable nature of preserving dignity makes it challenging to measure its impact.
    • The need for broader societal shifts in perspectives on poverty and shared responsibilities.

    Key Phrases:

    • JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile)
    • Poverty parade
    • Rights-based approach
    • Shared societal responsibility
    • Technical solutions vs. working with the poor
    • Veil of ignorance (Rawlsian perspective)
    • Dignity preservation in program design

    Critical Analysis:

    • Emphasis on the overlooked aspect of preserving dignity brings a unique perspective.
    • The article challenges prevailing views on poverty, advocating for a rights-based approach.
    • DBT is presented as a successful model, but challenges of replicating its success are acknowledged.
    • The article connects poverty perspectives with societal responsibilities and justice delivery.

    Key Examples and References for quality enrichment of mains answers: 

    • Michael Young’s “The Rise of The Meritocracy”
    • The Tyranny of Experts by William Easterly
    • Reference to the judiciary’s challenges and the appeal of the first woman tribal President.

    Key Data and Facts:

    • 310 government schemes across 53 ministries utilize DBT.
    • Estimated savings of 1.14% of GDP attributed to DBT.
    • 79,813 cases pending before 34 judges in the judiciary.

    Key Terms:

    • Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
    • JAM Trinity
    • Rights-based approach
    • Poverty parade
    • Veil of ignorance
    • Shared societal responsibility

    Way Forward:

    • Advocacy for applying DBT’s success in other sectors, particularly the judiciary.
    • Acknowledgment of complexity but a call for collective efforts to address challenges.

  • In news: All Indian Forward Bloc (AIFB)

    Forward Bloc

    Central Idea

    • A veteran leader’s centenary who was associated with Netaji Bose’s All Indian Forward Bloc (AIFB), was celebrated.

    All Indian Forward Bloc (AIFB)

    Details
    Foundation May 3, 1939 by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at Makur near Unnao (Uttar Pradesh)
    Original Purpose To consolidate left-wing elements within the Indian National Congress and develop an alternative leadership
    Key Early Members S.S. Kavishar (Vice-President), Lal Shankarlal (General Secretary), Vishwambhar Dayalu Tripathi, Khurshed Nariman, Annapurniah, Senapati Bapat, Hari Vishnu Kamath, Pasumpon U. Muthuramalingam Thevar, Sheel Bhadra Yagee, Satya Ranjan Bakshi
    First All India Conference June 20-22, 1940, in Nagpur; declared as a socialist political party
    Publication “Forward Bloc” newspaper started by Netaji in August 1939
    Bose’s Arrest and Exile Arrested in July 1940, escaped in January 1941, sought support in the Soviet Union and Germany
    World War II Activities Continued anti-British activities in India, notably in Bihar, without direct coordination with Bose or INA
    Post-War Reorganization Reorganized in February 1946 in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh; declared as a socialist party
    1946 Elections Contested elections to the Constituent Assembly and provincial legislatures; won several seats
    Arrah Conference 2nd All India Conference in January 1947 in Arrah, Bihar
    Post-Independence Status Re-established as an independent political party after India’s independence

     

    Try this PYQ:

    Who among the following were the founders of the “Hind Mazdoor Sabha” established in 1948?

    (a) B. Krishna Pillai, E.M.S. Namboodiripad and K.C. George

    (b) Jayaprakash Narayan, Deen Dayal Upadhyay and M.N. Roy

    (c) C.P. Ramaswamy Iyer, K. Kamaraj and Veeresalingam Pantulu

    (d) Ashok Mehata, T.S. Ramanujan and G.G. Mehata

     

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”vphuojv3dc” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • Bengaluru hosts Kambala Races

    Kambala

    Central Idea

    • Kambala races were held on this weekend in Bengaluru and many parts of Karnataka.
    • This event has faced legal scrutiny in the past, with the Supreme Court temporarily outlawing Kambala, along with Jallikattu and bullock-cart racing, in 2014.

    What is Kambala?

    • Kambala is a folk sport predominantly practised in the coastal districts of Karnataka, especially where Tulu-speaking communities are prevalent.
    • Traditionally, races were organized in slushy paddy fields post-harvest.
    • The Kambala Samithi now hosts weekly events from late November to mid-April at various venues across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.
    • For many, especially the Bunt community, Kambala is a prestigious event.
    • Buffalo pairs are meticulously groomed throughout the year in the hopes of winning major races.

    Different Kambala Categories

    1. Negilu (Plough): Entry-level buffalo pairs participate in their first Kambala race using lighter ploughs.
    2. Hagga (Rope): Jockeys race buffaloes with just a rope tied to both.
    3. Adda Halage: Participants stand on a horizontal plank dragged by buffaloes, unlike Hagga and Negilu where jockeys run behind.
    4. Kane Halage: A wooden plank tied to buffaloes, with water gushing out through holes as it’s dragged. The height of splashing water determines the winner.

    Kambala’s Popularity across Karnataka

    • While Kambala’s popularity is concentrated in coastal Karnataka, movies like ‘Kantara’ in 2022 have widened its appeal across the state.
    • The film’s success is credited with generating interest in the sport, making it more popular even beyond its traditional strongholds.
    • Historically, the Koraga community faced discrimination during Kambala events. They were considered “untouchable” and ill-treated.
    • Critics argue that the sport is still dominated by higher caste groups, while lower caste individuals often perform menial tasks during the event.

    Why was Kambala banned by the Supreme Court?

    • Several organizations, including People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), alleged animal abuse during traditional sporting events.
    • Concerns included the tying of buffalo noses with ropes and continuous whipping during races, seen as cruelty.
    • The Supreme Court, hearing these petitions, banned Kambala, Jallikattu, and bullock-cart racing in 2014.

    How was the ban lifted?

    • In January 2016, the Environment Ministry issued a notification allowing the continuation of bull training for such traditional events, recognizing their cultural significance.
    • Specific conditions were set to minimize bull suffering.
    • State governments also amended the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, providing exemptions for these events.
    • A five-judge constitutional bench upheld these amendments made by Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra governments in May.

  • Antarctica’s Ozone Hole expands mid-spring since 2001

    ozone

    Central Idea

    • Recent research published in the journal Nature Communications has revealed a concerning trend in the Antarctic ozone layer during mid-spring (October).
    • Contrary to previously reported recovery trends in total ozone, the core of the Antarctic ozone in mid-spring has experienced a significant 26% reduction since 2004.

    Ozone Layer and Ozone Hole

    Location Stratosphere, approximately 10-30 km above Earth’s surface.
    Composition Composed of ozone (O3) molecules.

    Unit of measurement: Dobsob Unit (DU)
    Function Acts as a protective shield, absorbing and blocking a significant portion of harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
    Importance Essential for protecting life on Earth by preventing excessive UV radiation, which can harm living organisms and the environment.
    Ozone-depleting Substances Threatened by ODS like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and other synthetic compounds commonly used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and aerosol propellants.
    Montreal Protocol An international treaty adopted in 1987 to phase out the production and consumption of ODS, resulting in significant recovery of the ozone layer.
    Current Status The ozone layer is in the process of recovery due to the success of the Montreal Protocol.
    Environmental Impact Protects ecosystems, prevents skin cancer, cataracts, and other health issues in humans.
    Additional Facts • The size of the ozone hole over Antarctica varies annually, opening in August and closing in November or December.

    • Special winds caused by the Earth’s rotation create a unique climate over Antarctica, preventing mixing with surrounding air.

    • When these winds subside, the hole closes.

    Shift in Ozone Trends

    • Mid-Spring Ozone Depletion: The study’s findings reveal a notable decline in mid-spring (October) ozone levels within the middle stratospheric layer, contrary to previous expectations of recovery.
    • Early Spring Recovery: Surprisingly, early spring (September) still shows slight ozone increases or a modest recovery of the ozone hole.

    Implications of Ozone Variability

    • Antarctic Stratospheric Ozone: Antarctic stratospheric ozone plays a critical role in influencing climate patterns across the Southern Hemisphere.
    • Understanding Ozone Variability: Ongoing research aims to understand the reasons behind the observed ozone variability, particularly in the context of the Southern Hemisphere’s atmospheric changes.

    Key Findings

    • Recovery Trends Re-evaluated: When considering satellite data from 2022, previously reported recovery trends in Antarctic spring total ozone, observed since 2001, no longer hold.
    • Middle Stratosphere Impact: The middle stratosphere has witnessed continued, significant ozone reduction since 2004, culminating in a 26% loss within the core of the ozone hole.
    • Potential Causes: The study suggests that changes in the mesosphere, the atmospheric layer above the stratosphere and the ozone layer, may be driving this reduction.
    • Major triggers: Scientists speculate that the extensive ozone hole this year may be linked to volcanic eruptions in Hunga Tonga, Tonga, between December 2022 and January 2023.

  • VT Rajshekar: Journalist, anti-caste legend who spoke his mind

    V T Rajshekar - Alchetron, The Free Social Encyclopedia

    Central idea

    Vontibettu Thimmappa Rajshekar Shetty (VTR) authored 30 books centering on caste, nation and religion

    Key Highlights:

    • Vontibettu Thimmappa Rajshekar Shetty (VTR) is a renowned figure in the Ambedkarite, anti-caste movement, known for his fearless journalism.
    • Born in 1932, VTR played a significant role in shaping the intellectual discourse of the anti-caste sphere since the 1970s.
    • Founder of the world-famous periodical Dalit Voice in 1981, VTR advocated for Dalit rights and challenged the Brahminical state order.

    Challenges:

    • Faced opposition and legal challenges, including being booked under India’s Terrorism and Anti-Disruptive Activities Act.
    • Dalit Voice was forced to shut down due to assault by the BJP, rechristened as Brahmana Jaati Party.

    Key Phrases:

    • “Triumph of Ambedkarism”: VTR envisioned the 21st century as a period of triumph for Ambedkarism.
    • “Caste as a nation within the nation”: VTR viewed caste as a separate entity rather than a subsidiary of the nation-state.

    Critical Analysis:

    • VTR’s journalism focused on exposing Brahminical hypocrisies and advocating for the rights of the oppressed.
    • Fearless critiques of the caste system and Brahminical state order marked his intellectual contributions.
    • VTR’s alignment with international radical movements showcased a commitment to broader social justice issues.
    • Alliances with African-American movements and international solidarity reflected a global perspective on caste-based discrimination.
    • Booking under India’s Terrorism and Anti-Disruptive Activities Act highlighted the resistance faced by VTR for his outspoken journalism.
    • Dalit Voice’s closure due to opposition from the BJP underscores the challenges anti-caste voices encounter in political landscapes.
    • Despite significant contributions, VTR and many anti-caste legends are often inadequately honored and celebrated.
    • The proposed establishment of a national award for fearless journalists in V T Rajshekar’s name aims to recognize and honor his impactful work.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Founded Dalit Voice in 1981 and authored 30 books, including “Dalit: The Black Untouchables of India.”
    • Inspired solidarity between Dalits and contemporary African-American activists.

    Key Data:

    • Born on July 17, 1932.
    • Founded Dalit Voice in 1981.

    Key Facts:

    • VTR faced legal challenges, including being booked under India’s Terrorism and Anti-Disruptive Activities Act.
    • Dalit Voice shut down due to opposition from the BJP.

    Key Terms:

    • Ambedkarism,
    • Brahminical state order,
    • Dalit Voice,
    • Caste-based violence,
    • Internationalism,
    • Brahmana Jaati Party.

    Way Forward:

    • Recognition and celebration of VTR’s contributions to anti-caste journalism and social justice.
    • Proposed establishment of a national award for fearless journalists in the name of V T Rajshekar to honor his legacy.

  • Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF)

    ibef

    Central Idea

    • Since the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, the global community has struggled to secure adequate funding for biodiversity conservation.
    • However, on August 27, 2023, a significant step was taken as countries established the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF).

    GBFF: A New Hope for Biodiversity Funding

    • Inception: The GBFF was officially established on August 27, 2023, at the 7th Assembly of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) in Vancouver, Canada.
    • KMGBF Integration: The GBFF’s primary objective is to support countries in achieving the 23 targets outlined in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), which was adopted at the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity.
    • Funding Needs: COP15 determined that at least $200 billion per year until 2030 is required to fund biodiversity protection programs worldwide.
    1990: GEF launched with ~US$1 billion; 46% funds for biodiversity.

    1996: GEF becomes financial mechanism for the Convention at COP3, Argentina.

    2002: GEF’s 3rd replenishment: $3 billion, 30% for biodiversity (2002-06).

    2010: COP10 in Japan sets Aichi targets; 5th GEF replenishment: $4.34 billion, $1.15 billion for biodiversity.

    2014: GEF’s 6th cycle: $4.43 billion, 6.3% for biodiversity.

    2019: IPBES report shows 1 million species at extinction risk.

    2023: 7th GEF Assembly ratifies GBFF with $200 million seed capital; $1.92 billion for biodiversity in 8th cycle.

    1992: CBD signed at Earth Summit, effective 1993; COP1 in Bahamas.

    1998: First GEF Assembly in New Delhi; $418 million allocated for biodiversity.

    2006: 4th GEF replenishment: $3.13 billion, 26% for biodiversity.

    2012: COP11 in India; IPBES to assess biodiversity status.

    2018: COP14 in Egypt assesses Aichi targets; GEF’s 7th cycle: $4.1 billion, 21.8% for biodiversity.

    2022: COP15 in Montreal adopts Kunming-Montreal Framework; $200 billion/year needed, Global Biodiversity Framework Fund proposed.

    What makes GBFF unique?

    • Diverse Funding Sources: Unlike the GEF, which relied on a limited number of donors, the GBFF will source funds from private, philanthropic, and government investments.
    • GEF’s Role: The GEF will manage the GBFF, making it a more robust and versatile funding mechanism.
    • Budget Allocation: The GBFF has a cumulative budget of $5.25 billion for 2022-26, with 36% allocated for biodiversity. The remaining funds are dedicated to projects addressing climate change, pollution, land, and ocean health.
    • Enhanced Impact: Carlos Manuel Rodríguez, Chairperson of GEF, emphasizes the need not only for increased funds but also for strategic utilization to maximize impact.
    • Multilateral Fund Potential: GBFF might receive contributions from a proposed multilateral fund generated from fees related to digital genetic sequence information, potentially generating over $15 billion annually.

    Challenges Ahead

    • Funding Gap Persists: Despite GBFF’s establishment, the financial gap for biodiversity conservation remains significant. In 2019, global spending on biodiversity conservation was far below the estimated need.
    • Domestic Financing Struggles: Relying on domestic funds has been challenging, especially for developing countries.
    • Long-Term Funding Concerns: The world faces a projected financing gap of $4.1 trillion for biodiversity by 2050, underscoring the need for sustainable funding mechanisms.

    Importance of Domestic Funding

    • Diverse Solutions: KMGBF’s Target 19 suggests various nature-based solutions such as payment for ecosystem services, green bonds, and benefit-sharing mechanisms to mobilize domestic funding.
    • Challenges of Blended Finance: Blended financing, where public resources catalyze private investment, may not be an ideal solution and takes time to implement.
    • Biodiversity Credits: Similar to carbon credits, biodiversity credits (biocredits) have gained popularity. They have the potential to generate the funds needed to meet KMGBF targets.
    • Biocredits Challenges: Biocredits are in their infancy, and their implementation, including regulation, certification schemes, and policy systems, is still being discussed.

    Challenges in Achieving KMGBF Targets

    • Protecting 30% of Land and Waters: Achieving the 30×30 target faces challenges, considering existing protected areas’ effectiveness and the inclusion of OECMs (other effective area-based conservation measures).
    • Data Gap: The effectiveness of existing protected areas is unclear due to limited available data.
    • Debate over OECMs: OECMs are not fully understood, and there are concerns that they might be designated without proper evaluation.

    Way forward

    • Inclusion in KMGBF Targets: Indigenous peoples and local communities play a crucial role in conservation. KMGBF explicitly emphasizes the need to respect their rights in achieving targets.
    • Funding Allocation: The GEF Assembly has allocated up to 20% of donor funds to support indigenous communities in conservation efforts.
    • Capacity Building: To avoid human rights violations, there is a need for substantial investment in building the capacity of indigenous communities.
    • Strict Norms: Stricter norms should ensure that biodiversity-rich areas are not diverted for other purposes, such as plantations, which cannot replace old-growth forests.

    Conclusion

    • The establishment of the GBFF represents a significant step towards addressing the long-standing financial challenges in biodiversity conservation.
    • However, challenges, such as securing adequate funds and ensuring equitable conservation practices, persist.

  • At COP 28, a chance to get past fear-mongering

    How Can Climate Action Be Inclusive? | Global Climate Change

    Central idea

    The article emphasizes that climate change action is essential for economic sustainability and counters the notion that it is unaffordable. It highlights the impact of fossil fuels on the cost-of-living crisis and advocates for redirecting funds from fossil fuel subsidies to renewable energy. The author calls for international cooperation at COP28 to triple renewable energy capacity, double energy efficiency, and address climate justice concerns.

    Key Highlights:

    • Global Cost-of-Living Crisis: Inflation’s widespread impact on billions globally, prompting a false narrative of green initiatives against the interests of the poor.
    • Fossil Fuels and Economic Strain: Fossil fuels, a major driver of the cost-of-living crisis, contribute to economic strain, affecting household budgets and impeding growth.
    • Worsening Climate Disasters: Amid rising costs, climate disasters intensify, causing economic damage and affecting millions globally.

    Key Challenges:

    • Fossil Fuel Dependency: Persistent reliance on fossil fuels remains a significant hurdle to addressing the cost-of-living crisis and mitigating climate change.
    • Government Spending on Subsidies: Trillions spent on fossil fuel subsidies divert funds from essential services and hinder investments in renewable energy.

    Key Terms:

    • Cost-of-Living Crisis: Global economic strain exacerbated by inflation.
    • Fossil Fuel Subsidies: Government financial support to the fossil fuel industry.
    • Renewable Energy: Sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels.
    • Climate Disasters: Increasingly severe climate-related events.
    • Energy Access: Ensuring access to reliable and affordable energy.

    Key Phrases for value addition:

    • “Green versus poor” Narrative: Misleading rhetoric obscuring the need for a sustainable future.
    • “Fossil fuel taps can’t be turned off overnight”: Recognizing the gradual nature of transitioning from fossil fuels.
    • “Global Stocktake on climate action”: Assessment of progress and tools to speed up climate action.
    • “Tripling the world’s renewable energy capacity”: Ambitious goals for renewable energy expansion.
    • “Fear Mongering”: Misleading tactics to discourage climate action.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Impact of Fossil Fuel Prices: Household bills rising up to $1,000 in 2022.
    • Government Spending: Trillions spent globally on fossil fuel subsidies in 2022.

    Key Facts:

    • Climate Predictions: This year projected to be the hottest in 125,000 years.
    • Inflation Impact: Disproportionately affecting the poorest households.
    • Fossil Fuel Subsidies: Diverting funds from essential services and renewable energy projects.

    Key Data:

    • Global Spending on Subsidies: Trillions allocated to fossil fuel subsidies.
    • Climate Impact: Economic damage and lives affected by escalating climate disasters.

    Critical Analysis:

    • The article underscores the interconnected challenges of inflation, fossil fuel dependency, and climate change.
    • Governments’ hesitation to phase out subsidies is identified as a critical obstacle.
    • Emphasis on the imperative shift to renewable energy for economic growth and effective climate action.

    Way Forward:

    • Advocacy: Push for responsible phasing out of fossil fuel subsidies.
    • Encouragement: Support governments in investing in renewable energy and energy-efficient solutions.
    • Climate Justice: Back initiatives addressing climate justice and adaptation to climate impacts.

  • Remembering Justice Fathima Beevi: India’s First Woman Supreme Court Judge

    Justice Fathima Beevi

    Central Idea

    • Justice Fathima Beevi, the first woman judge of the Supreme Court of India (also the first Muslim woman Judge of SC), passed away at the age of 96 in Kerala’s Kollam.

    Who was Justice Fathima Beevi?

    • Early life: Born in 1927, Justice Beevi was the eldest of eight children and came from a family where her father, Annaveetil Meera Sahib, encouraged his daughters’ education despite societal norms.
    • Decision for Law: Her father persuaded her to pursue law instead of post-graduation in Chemistry, inspired by the story of Anna Chandy, the first woman judicial officer in Travancore.
    • Breaking Barriers: She made history by graduating in law in 1950, becoming the first woman law graduate to receive the gold medal from the Bar Council.

    A Symbol of Women’s Empowerment

    • Pioneering Achievement: Justice Fathima Beevi’s appointment as the first Muslim woman judge of the Supreme Court was a milestone in India’s legal history.
    • Role Model: She became an icon of women’s empowerment, encouraging women to pursue careers in the legal field.
    • Recognition for Kerala: Kerala gained recognition as the state that contributed the first female judge to the country through her appointment.

    A Trailblazing Legal Career

    • Junior Advocate: She began her legal career as a junior advocate at Kollam district court, facing resistance from orthodox elements due to her headscarf.
    • Barrier Breaker: Despite initial challenges, Justice Beevi rose through the ranks, eventually joining the judicial service as a munsiff in 1958.
    • Remarkable Achievements: She continued to break barriers, becoming the district sessions judge in 1974 and getting elected as a munsiff through a competitive exam.

    Political Career

    • Judicial Ascension: Justice Beevi’s journey continued as she was appointed as a judge of the Kerala High Court in 1983, and later elevated to the Supreme Court in 1989.
    • Champion of Equality: In the Supreme Court, she advocated for equality in significant verdicts, including cases related to reservation and constitutional safeguards against arbitrary state authority.
    • Governor of Tamil Nadu: Justice Beevi served as the governor of Tamil Nadu from 1997 to 2001, making headlines for her role in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case and political developments.