Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Justice Fathima Beevi
Mains level: Women in Judiciary
Central Idea
- India’s judiciary has long grappled with gender disparity, and the recent passing of Justice Fathima Beevi, the country’s first female Supreme Court judge, has brought attention to this issue.
- Despite incremental progress, women continue to be underrepresented in both the Supreme Court and High Courts, highlighting the need for comprehensive reform.
About Justice Fathima Beevi
- Justice Fathima Beevi, India’s first woman Supreme Court judge, passed away at the age of 96 in Kollam, Kerala.
- She made history as the first Muslim woman judge of the Supreme Court, as well as the first woman Supreme Court Justice in Asia.
Gender Disparity in Indian Judiciary
[A] Supreme Court
- Current Scenario: Of the 34 incumbent Supreme Court justices, only three are women: Justices Hima Kohli, Bela Trivedi, and BV Nagarathna.
- Historical Perspective: India has had a total of 11 women judges in the Supreme Court’s history, since Justice Beevi’s appointment in 1989.
- Low Representation: This translates to approximately 4% representation of women judges out of a total of 268 judges in the apex court’s history.
- Recent Appointments: The current collegium, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, has made 14 appointments but is yet to appoint a woman judge to the Supreme Court.
[B] High Court
- High Court Scenario: As of March 2022, India has 25 high courts with 1,114 sanctioned judge positions.
- Working Judges: However, only 785 judges are currently working, with 329 positions remaining vacant.
- Female Judges: Out of the working judges, only 107 are women, constituting 13% of the total.
- Women Chief Justices: Only one of the country’s 25 high courts currently has a woman chief justice.
Efforts to Address Gender Disparity
- Legal Perspective: The Union Law Minister stated that the Constitution’s Articles 124, 217, and 224 do not provide for caste or class-based reservations in higher judiciary appointments.
- Recommendation for Diversity: Nevertheless, the Centre encouraged high court chief justices to consider suitable candidates who are women, minorities, scheduled castes, or tribes to ensure social diversity in the appointment process.
Challenges in Lower Judiciary and District Courts
- Higher Representation: Women constitute approximately 27% of judges in the lower judiciary, but gender disparities persist in higher appointments such as district judges and high courts.
- Regional Disparities: A study revealed that only a few smaller states like Goa, Meghalaya, and Sikkim had over 60% women judges, while others remained below 40%.
- Reservation: Some states have introduced quotas for women in the lower judiciary, providing between 30% and 35% reservation for direct appointments.
Way forward
- In April 2021, Chief Justice SA Bobde emphasized that capable candidates were required for greater women representation, rather than an attitudinal change.
- His statement sparked controversy as female advocates challenged the assumption that women refused judgeships solely due to domestic responsibilities.
- Advocates argued that men also decline judgeships for various reasons without hindering their appointment.
Conclusion
- The gender disparity in India’s judiciary remains a persistent challenge, with slow progress towards equal representation.
- It is imperative to address this issue comprehensively, from the highest courts to the lower judiciary, by promoting diversity and equal opportunities, ultimately strengthening the justice system and upholding gender equality.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Casgevy, Crispr-Cas9 technology
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The recent approval of Casgevy, a groundbreaking gene therapy utilizing Crispr-Cas9 technology, by the UK health authorities represents a monumental achievement in medicine.
- This therapy holds the potential to provide a lifelong cure for individuals grappling with sickle cell disease and thalassaemia, offering newfound hope and possibilities in the field of genetic medicine.
Casgevy: A Gene-Editing Marvel
- World’s First Licensed Gene Therapy: Casgevy stands as the world’s inaugural licensed gene therapy employing Crispr-Cas9 technology, an innovation that garnered the Nobel Prize in 2020.
- Targeting Faulty Genes: This revolutionary therapy specifically targets the flawed genes responsible for sickle cell disease and thalassaemia, offering the tantalizing prospect of a lifelong cure.
- A Paradigm Shift: In the past, the only permanent treatment option was a bone marrow transplant, contingent on discovering a closely matched donor.
Mechanism of Action
- Genetic Errors: Sickle cell disease and thalassaemia both stem from genetic abnormalities within the haemoglobin gene, impairing the structure and functionality of red blood cells.
- Precision Gene Editing: Casgevy harnesses the patient’s blood stem cells, meticulously edited using Crispr-Cas9, with a specific focus on the BCL11A gene.
- Boosting Foetal Haemoglobin: By stimulating the production of foetal haemoglobin, which lacks the irregularities found in adult haemoglobin, the therapy mitigates the symptoms of these debilitating conditions.
Understanding Sickle Cell Disease and Thalassaemia
Sickle Cell Disease: Characterized by crescent-shaped red blood cells, this condition disrupts smooth blood flow, resulting in excruciating pain, infections, anaemia, and even strokes. India bears witness to an annual influx of 30,000-40,000 children born with sickle cell disease.
Thalassaemia: This disorder leads to diminished haemoglobin levels, causing fatigue, breathlessness, and irregular heartbeats, necessitating lifelong blood transfusions and chelation therapy. India is home to the world’s largest population of children with thalassaemia major, numbering approximately 1-1.5 lakh. |
Clinical Trial Results
- Clinical trials of Casgevy showcased remarkable results, with participants afflicted by sickle cell disease reporting a substantial reduction in severe pain crises.
- Those with thalassaemia witnessed a remarkable 70% reduction in the need for blood transfusions.
Administration and Challenges
- One-Time Treatment: Casgevy involves a one-time treatment process, encompassing the collection of bone marrow blood stem cells through apheresis, followed by editing and testing over a span of approximately six months.
- Conditioning Medicine: Prior to the transplant with edited cells, conditioning medicine is administered to clear the bone marrow of existing cells.
- Challenges: Challenges include the expected high cost of the therapy, potentially around $2 million per patient, and the absence of local manufacturing facilities, necessitating the international transport of blood stem cells.
Future Prospects
- Price Reduction: Despite pricing challenges, experts hold the belief that ongoing research will lead to price reductions, making the therapy more accessible. Local manufacturing facilities are also anticipated to emerge.
- Indian Research: Researchers in India are actively pursuing gene therapies for sickle cell disease, with clinical trials on the horizon in the coming years.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: All India Judicial Service (AIJS)
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- On Constitution Day, President emphasized the need for an All-India Judicial Service (AIJS) to reflect India’s diverse fabric in the judiciary.
- Designed to streamline the recruitment process for judges, particularly at the levels of additional district judges and district judges across all states, the AIJS concept has been the subject of longstanding debate and contention within legal circles.
All India Judicial Service (AIJS): Overview
- Objective: To select and nurture talented individuals nationwide, ensuring representation from underrepresented social groups.
- Current Recruitment: Under Articles 233 and 234 of the Constitution, states manage district judge appointments. State Public Service Commissions conduct recruitment, supervised by High Courts.
- Rationale: AIJS aims to enhance judicial efficiency, standardize compensation, expedite recruitment, and ensure uniform training.
Historical Context
- 1958: The Law Commission first proposed a centralized judicial service.
- 1978: The Law Commission revisited the idea amid concerns about delays and case backlogs.
- 2006: A Parliamentary Committee supported a pan-Indian judicial service, drafting a bill.
Judiciary’s Stance
- 1992: The Supreme Court directed the Centre to establish AIJS (All India Judges’ Assam vs. Union of India case).
- 1993: The Court permitted the Centre to initiate AIJS independently.
- 2017: The Supreme Court suggested a “Central Selection Mechanism” for district judge appointments.
Necessity of AIJS
- Challenges: The lower judiciary faces about 5400 vacancies and a backlog of 2.78 crore cases.
- Quality Concerns: The declining quality of judicial officers necessitates high-caliber recruitment.
- Financial Incentives: State services often fail to attract top talent due to lower salaries.
- Training and Subjectivity: State-run institutions lack adequate training resources; current appointments are marred by subjectivity and nepotism.
Criticism and Concerns
- Federalism: AIJS is seen as infringing on states’ powers.
- Language and Representation: Centralized recruitment might impact the use of regional languages.
- Equality and Education: A national exam could disadvantage less privileged candidates; law education standards are inconsistent.
- Structural Issues: AIJS may not address systemic problems like low pay and inadequate infrastructure.
- Bureaucratization: Centralizing recruitment doesn’t inherently guarantee efficiency.
Government’s Motivation
- Business Environment: Reforming the lower judiciary is aligned with improving India’s Ease of Doing Business ranking.
- Dispute Resolution: Efficient dispute resolution is crucial for business rankings.
- IAS Inspiration: The government views the IAS system as a model for enhancing judicial services.
Way Forward
Niti Aayog’s ‘Strategy for New India @75’ report recommends:
- Examination: An all-India judicial services exam to maintain high standards.
- Technology: Implementing video-conferencing to expedite justice and reduce logistical issues.
- Independence: AIJS cadre should report to the Chief Justice in each High Court to preserve judicial independence.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: na
Mains level: Caste as a nation within the nation
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.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Char Dham Project
Mains level: Environment Impact Assessment (EIA)
Central idea
The Uttarkashi tunnel collapse has thrown light on the major flaws in the infrastructure development in the Indian Himalayan Region
Key Highlights:
- The Char Dham Project in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) has raised concerns about the sustainability of the current development model.
- The focus is on the carrying capacity of the IHR, questioning the extensive road widening, hydropower projects, and tourism promotion.
- The geological sensitivity of the Himalayas, marked by earthquakes and frictional shear rocks, makes such infrastructure projects dangerous.
Challenges:
- Lack of adherence to mountain construction codes and basic safety protocols in the rush for construction projects.
- The fragmentation of the Char Dham Project into smaller sections for Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) raises questions about its comprehensive evaluation.
- The need to address the broader issue of carrying capacity in the IHR, encompassing hydropower projects, tourism, and road development.
Key Phrases:
- “Construction in this zone is dangerous” due to the sensitive geological nature of the Himalayas.
- The Supreme Court should address the issue of carrying capacity in the Himalayas, considering the impact of infrastructure on the ecosystem.
- The transformative phase in the IHR requires a reevaluation of the integration approach with new geographies.
Critical Analysis:
- The article criticizes the lack of seriousness in implementing safety measures, citing the Silkyara tunnel incident in Uttarakhand.
- Emphasis on learning from failures, international protocols, and the inclusion of local communities in monitoring structures are suggested for safer infrastructure development.
Key Examples and References:
- The Atal tunnel in Himachal Pradesh is cited as an exception with a rigorous safety protocol, contrasting it with the safety lapses in the Char Dham Project.
- The flash floods of 2013 in Uttarakhand are mentioned as the basis for initiating the Char Dham Yatra and subsequent infrastructure projects.
Key Data:
- The Char Dham Project is approximately 900 km long, broken into 53 sections for separate EIAs.
- Geological and geotechnical studies highlight the dangerous nature of construction in the Himalayas.
Key Facts:
- The carrying capacity discussion extends beyond the number of people to include infrastructure aspects like hydropower projects and roads.
- The importance of a legislative architecture that involves local communities and adheres to international protocols for safer infrastructure development.
Key Terms for value addition in your answer:
- Carrying capacity
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
- Geological sensitivity
- Transformative phase
- Safety protocols
Way Forward:
- Urgent dialogue on carrying capacity in the Himalayas, considering the total impact of infrastructure development.
- Adoption of international protocols and legislative architecture for safer construction, involving local communities and civil society.
- Reevaluation of the integration approach in the transformative phase of the IHR, ensuring stability and safety standards in infrastructure projects.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM2.5 and PM10
Mains level: critical role of transitioning to electric trucks to mitigate PM2.5 pollution
Central idea
The central idea revolves around the urgent need to address worsening air quality in Indian cities, focusing on the critical role of transitioning to electric trucks to mitigate PM2.5 pollution. Despite challenges like upfront costs, the article emphasizes the imperative of swift action, proposes green freight corridors as a demonstration, and calls for a concerted effort involving public and private sectors to accelerate the transition and ensure a healthier urban environment.
Key Highlights:
- Air Quality Crisis: Rising air pollution in Indian cities necessitates prioritizing mitigation strategies, focusing on PM2.5 and PM10 pollution from the transport and construction sector.
- Truck Fleet Expansion: The significant increase in the truck fleet poses a threat to air quality, and the transition to electric trucks is crucial for sustainability and energy security.
Challenges:
- Air Pollution Impact: The annual addition of 9 lakh new trucks to Indian roads contributes to air pollution, consuming a substantial portion of oil imports and contributing to over 90% of road transport CO2 emissions.
- Obstacles to Electric Adoption: Upfront costs and charging infrastructure constraints pose challenges to the adoption of electric trucks, despite the success in electrifying rail freight and buses.
Key Phrases:
- Urgent Deployment: Urgent deployment of solutions is paramount in addressing the air quality crisis.
- Targeted Mitigation: Diesel trucks and dust mitigation are identified as significant PM sources requiring immediate attention.
- Corridor Demonstration: Green freight corridors are proposed as a demonstration effect to accelerate the transition to electric trucks.
Critical Analysis:
- Swift Action Call: The need for swift action is emphasized, with a call to accelerate the pace of transition to electric trucks.
- Financial Implications: Public funding alone is insufficient, and the importance of attracting private and institutional capital is highlighted.
- Decarbonization Priority: Despite the success in electrifying three-wheelers, truck electrification is recognized as a pivotal step in transport sector decarbonization.
Key Examples and References:
- E-truck Demand: The demand for 7,750 e-trucks in India by 2030 is cited as a potential measure to save over 800 billion liters of diesel till 2050.
- Cost Disparity: The upfront cost disparity between mid-range electric trucks and diesel trucks is identified as a major hurdle.
Key Data:
- Electric Penetration Rate: India’s electric vehicle penetration rate has crossed 6%, but electric trucks remain a challenge.
- Fleet Projection: The Indian truck fleet is projected to reach 1.7 crore in 2050, emphasizing the urgency of transitioning to electric trucks.
Key Facts:
- Corridor Proposal: Electrifying expressways and national highways as green freight corridors is proposed for demonstration and impact.
- Financial Innovation: Innovative financial instruments and a conducive regulatory environment are deemed essential for the breakthrough in truck electrification.
Way Forward:
- Concerted Efforts: Urges the need for concerted efforts, including feasibility studies, demand aggregation, and a conducive regulatory environment, to create green freight corridors.
- Recognition of Urgency: Stresses the importance of recognizing the urgency in addressing air quality issues and transitioning to electric trucks for a healthier urban environment.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ayurveda Gyan Naipunya Initiative (AGNI)
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The Central Council for Research in Ayurveda Sciences (CCRAS), under the Ministry of Ayush, has introduced the “Ayurveda Gyan Naipunya Initiative” (AGNI) to promote research and innovation among Ayurveda practitioners.
Ayurveda Gyan Naipunya Initiative
- AGNI aims to document and validate Ayurvedic medical practices, enhance evidence-based practice culture, and facilitate scientific research in the field.
- It provides a platform for Ayurveda practitioners to share their innovative practices, fostering an evidence-based culture.
- It also supports research to validate pragmatic Ayurvedic practices through scientific methods.
Key functions
- CCRAS will document and publish reported medical practices and therapeutic regimens for educational and academic purposes in consultation with the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM).
- AGNI provides a platform for Ayurveda practitioners to report their innovative practices and experiences across various disease conditions.
- The initiative encourages the culture of evidence-based practice among Ayurveda practitioners, ensuring that their methods are grounded in scientific research.
- AGNI seeks to identify interested Ayurveda practitioners willing to collaborate in creating a comprehensive database through applications.
- Capacity building through research methods and good clinical practice training will also be offered.
- AGNI will undertake research to mainstream pragmatic Ayurvedic practices through scientific validation and evidence-based appraisal.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC)
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- NASA’s DSOC experiment onboarded to Psyche spacecraft, recently demonstrated successful transmission of data over near-infrared laser signals to Earth.
- This technology addresses the challenge of transmitting vast amounts of data over long distances from spacecraft, moving at high speeds in deep space.
Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC)
- NASA’s DSOC experiment introduces near-infrared laser signals for spacecraft communication.
- DSOC promises data rates at least 10 times faster than conventional radio communication systems, leading to enhanced data transfer rates, higher-resolution images, increased scientific data volume, and even real-time video streaming.
- DSOC’s laser communication technology is comparable to how fiber optics revolutionized Earth-based telecommunications.
Psyche Spacecraft and DSOC
- The Psyche spacecraft is the first to carry a DSOC transceiver, which will test high-bandwidth optical communication with Earth during its initial two years of travel to the asteroid belt.
- DSOC’s successful “first light” milestone was reached when the transceiver locked onto a powerful laser beacon transmitted from NASA’s Table Mountain Facility in California.
- Achieving high data rates relies on extremely precise pointing, which is akin to hitting a small target from a great distance while both are in motion.
- This precision is necessary for the laser transceiver to track its target despite vibrations on the spacecraft.
Key Components for Success
- The spacecraft must isolate the transceiver from vibrations to maintain precision.
- As Earth and the spacecraft change positions during data transmission, DSOC systems adjust to ensure accurate pointing.
- New signal-processing techniques are essential to extract information from weak laser signals transmitted across vast distances in space.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CREAMS Lab
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Farm fires, particularly paddy crop residue fires, contribute to air pollution in northern India. To monitor and address this issue, satellite data is utilized.
CREAMS Laboratory: Monitoring farm fires
- Agency: The Indian Agricultural Research Institute’s (IARI) Consortium for Research on Agro-ecosystem Monitoring and Modeling from Space (CREAMS) Laboratory is responsible for collecting and disseminating daily bulletins on paddy residue fires.
- Coverage: Data covers Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Delhi.
- Information Provided: The bulletin includes district-wise fire incident numbers, comparative data from previous years, location, satellite details, time, and fire intensity.
Satellite Data Collection
- Satellites: Three NASA satellites (VIIRS on Suomi NPP, MODIS on Terra and Aqua) capture data by recording land surface temperatures.
- Coverage: These satellites pass over the Indian subcontinent twice daily, with varying times.
- Resolution: VIIRS offers higher resolution, while MODIS has coarser resolution.
- Data Use: Satellite data is used to differentiate farm fires from other types, such as forest fires or industrial fires.
Monitoring Protocols
- Standardization: In 2021, a standard protocol for monitoring farm fires using satellite data was established.
- Data Comparison: Comparative data is available from 2020 onwards.
- Punjab’s Data: The Punjab Remote Sensing Centre provides similar data specific to Punjab.
Identifying Paddy Fires
- Reflectance Signature: Paddy crop residue fires are distinguished based on the unique reflectance signature of paddy fields.
- Land Surface Temperature: Active fires are identified based on land surface temperature deviations from surrounding areas.
- Fire Intensity: Intensity, expressed as energy emitted per unit area per unit time, indicates the amount of residue burned.
Bulletin Dissemination
- Recipient Agencies: Bulletins are sent to central and state-level agencies, including the Commission for Air Quality Management, the Ministry of Agriculture, and state agriculture departments.
- Action Measures: Authorities use the data to identify hotspots and plan measures, such as machinery availability, to address farm fires.
- Targets: Some states, like Punjab and Haryana, set targets for reducing farm fire incidents based on satellite data.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CERT-In, RTI
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The Centre has included the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) in the list of organizations exempted from the Right to Information Act (RTI), 2005.
-
There are 26 other intelligence and security organisations established by the Central government such as the Intelligence Bureau, Research and Analysis Wing, Directorate of Enforcement, and National Technical Research Organisation that are exempt under RTI.
About Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In)
|
Details |
| Nodal Agency |
Part of India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology |
| Establishment |
Formed in 2004 under the Information Technology Act, 2000 Section (70B) |
| Inter-agency Coordination |
Works with NCIIPC (under NTRO and PMO) and NDMA (under Ministry of Home Affairs) |
| Functions |
Monitors cyber-attacks, issues security guidelines, liaises with national cybersecurity bodies |
| Recent Activities |
Hosted ‘Synergy’ exercise in 2022 with international participation |
| International Agreements |
MoUs with UK, Korea, Canada, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, Uzbekistan; cooperation with Shanghai Cooperation Organisation |
| Notable Incidents |
Reported Android Jelly Bean flaw (2014), Chrome vulnerabilities (2020), WhatsApp vulnerability (2021); investigated AIIMS cyber-attack (2022) |
| Cyberattack Statistics (2021) |
Faced 11.5 million cyberattack incidents including attacks on infrastructure and government |
Back2Basics: Right to Information (RTI) Act
| Enactment |
June 15, 2005 |
| Objective |
Promote transparency and accountability |
| Applicability |
All public authorities at central, state, local levels |
| Scope |
Access to information on matters of public interest, government policies, budgets, etc. |
| RTI Application |
Filed in writing with the concerned public authority |
| Response Time |
Within 30 days (48 hours for life or liberty issues) |
| Exemptions |
Some information exempted to protect national security, privacy, etc.
Judiciary |
| Fees |
Nominal fee varies based on state and information requested |
| First Appellate Authority |
Filed if dissatisfied with the response |
| Second Appeal |
Filed with the relevant Information Commission |
| Whistleblower Protection |
Safeguards against victimization for exposing corruption |
| Impact |
Promotes transparency, accountability, and good governance |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF)
Mains level: Read the attached story
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.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Central idea
On Constitution Day, voices are emerging to replace India’s Constitution, a unique document created through extensive discussion and amendments.
Comparative Constitutionalism:
- The comparison with other countries like France, Nepal, Chile, and Uzbekistan highlights India’s distinct process of constitution-making.
- Critics label the present Constitution as “colonial,” citing similarities with the Government of India Act 1935, but the historical context and unique influences are acknowledged.
Historical Influences and Unique Drafting Process:
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad asserted that India wasn’t bound to adhere strictly to global constitutional categories, emphasizing the influence of India’s historical realities.
- The Nehru Report’s significance in shaping constitutional ideals, serving as a foundation for future constitutional struggles.
Challenges and Criticisms:
- The challenge lies in addressing criticisms of the Constitution being “colonial” and responding to calls for a rewrite, balancing historical influences with contemporary needs.
- Achieving political consensus, as witnessed in the unique drafting process, is a monumental task, especially considering the diverse opinions and interests.
Back2Basics: The Government of India Act (1935)
- Under Lord Linlithgow’s leadership, a committee drafted the Government of India Act 1935, which was passed by the British Parliament and implemented.
- The Act drew from the Simon Commission Report, Round Table Conferences, White Paper of 1933, and Joint Select Committees’ reports to formulate its provisions.
Provisions of the GoI Act, 1935:
- All India Federation: Established an All-India Federation comprising British Indian Provinces and Indian States, although its implementation was hindered by lack of princely state participation.
- Provincial Autonomy: Introduced provincial autonomy where provinces functioned as autonomous units with responsible governments, though governors retained significant powers.
- Division of Subjects: Introduced three lists—Federal, Provincial, and Concurrent—to delineate legislative authority between the Centre and provinces, aiming to clarify jurisdictional matters:
|
Description |
Example Subjects |
| Federal List |
Subjects of all-India interest requiring uniform treatment across British India. Only the Federal Legislature had the authority to legislate. |
Defence, Foreign Affairs, Currency, Railways, Taxes on Income |
| Provincial List |
Subjects of local interest where Provincial Legislatures had exclusive jurisdiction. |
Public Health, Police, Local Government, Agriculture, Education |
| Concurrent List |
Subjects of both Provincial and Federal interest, requiring uniformity across the country. Both levels of government could legislate. |
Criminal Law, Marriage and Divorce, Bankruptcy, Trusts, Trade Unions |
|
Key Terms and Phrases:
- Nehru Report: Draft constitution prepared in 1928 as a response to the challenge posed by Lord Birkenhead, emphasizing fundamental rights and democratic principles.
- Government of India Act 1935: Considered by some as a “colonial” precursor to the Indian Constitution, but viewed differently by considering historical context.
Critical Analysis:
- The article navigates the complexities of assessing India’s Constitution, acknowledging historical influences while defending its efficiency in serving the nation.
- The challenges of potential rewriting are highlighted, emphasizing the need for political consensus and the unique historical context.
Way Forward:
- The way forward involves careful consideration of the Constitution’s strengths, historical foundations, and the feasibility of rewriting in the context of contemporary needs.
- Any potential rewriting should uphold the principles of a “fair measure of general agreement” among India’s diverse population, echoing the spirit of the Nehru Report.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: COP 28
Mains level: climate change action is essential for economic sustainability
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.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: GHG Emissions
Mains level: climate change and food insecurity
Central idea
The article underscores the critical challenges of climate change and food insecurity facing humanity. It emphasizes the significance of climate-smart agriculture (CSA) as a holistic approach, promoting sustainable development, resilience to climate change, and greenhouse gas emission reduction.
Key Highlights:
- Global Challenges: Addressing climate change and food insecurity as critical global issues.
- Impact on Agriculture: Discussing the negative effects of climate change on agriculture, leading to increased challenges for farmers.
- Holistic Solution: Introducing climate-smart agriculture (CSA) as a holistic solution to adaptation and mitigation challenges.
- Emphasizing Importance: Highlighting the importance of CSA in enhancing resilience, improving productivity, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Government Initiatives: Citing Indian government initiatives promoting CSA, such as the National Adaptation Fund and Soil Health Mission.
Key Challenges:
- Climate Risks: Analyzing the substantial risks posed by climate change to agricultural productivity, with India potentially facing a 9% decline in crop yield.
- Need for Reforms: Discussing the need for significant reforms in the agriculture industry to adapt traditional farming practices to climate change.
- Transformative Approach: Emphasizing the requirement for a radical transformation of the agriculture sector to achieve sustainable development goals.
Key Terms/Phrases:
- Holistic Approach: Exploring the concept of climate-smart agriculture (CSA) and its three pillars.
- Precision Farming: Highlighting the importance of precision farming in optimizing agricultural methods.
- Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Describing the role of CSA in building resilience against climate change.
- Agroforestry and Carbon Sequestration: Identifying specific CSA measures for environmental benefits.
- Paris Agreement: Linking CSA to global initiatives such as the Paris Agreement on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Key Examples and References:
- Global Efforts: Noting community-supported agriculture efforts worldwide as examples of CSA in action.
- Specific Measures: Citing studies from the northwest Indo-Gangetic Plain showcasing the benefits of CSA for wheat production.
- Government Support: Referring to government initiatives in India, including the Soil Health Card Scheme.
- International Frameworks: Connecting CSA to international frameworks like the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Key Facts/Data:
- Climate Impact: Highlighting the potential 9% decline in crop yield in India due to climate change.
- GHG Emissions: Noting agriculture’s significant share (17%) in greenhouse gas emissions in 2018.
- Economic Autonomy: Pointing out the economic autonomy gained by farmers through CSA implementation.
- Government Initiatives: Providing data on government spending on initiatives like the National Adaptation Fund.
Critical Analysis:
- Urgency of Action: Emphasizing the urgency of addressing climate change’s impact on agriculture and the need for a comprehensive approach like CSA.
- Positive Outcomes: Discussing the positive outcomes of CSA, including economic autonomy for farmers and benefits to biodiversity conservation.
- Localized Responses: Highlighting the importance of localized responses to climate change and the role of CSA in meeting international obligations.
Way Forward:
- Investment in Capacity-Building: Recommending continued investment in capacity-building programs for CSA.
- Knowledge Dissemination: Emphasizing the importance of providing practical tools and knowledge for the adoption of CSA.
- Triple Goals: Stating the role of CSA in ensuring food security, empowering farmers, and protecting ecosystems.
- Unique Juncture in India: Recognizing the unique juncture in India where CSA adoption is essential due to climate vulnerability and agricultural significance.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Justice Fathima Beevi
Mains level: NA
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.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has made a crucial recommendation to designate the Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary, adjacent to the Bandipur Tiger Reserve, as a core critical tiger habitat.
Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary
- Location: It is situated in H.D. Kote taluk of Mysuru district, Karnataka.
- Geographic Area: Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary encompasses a 30.32 sq km expanse and was officially declared a Wildlife Sanctuary by the State.
- Unique Geography: The sanctuary includes the backwaters of Nugu dam on its western side and shares borders with Alaganchi State Forest, a part of Bandipur TR, on the southwest side.
- Flora and Fauna: Despite recovering from past degradation, the flora of Nugu shares similarities with Bandipur. The sanctuary supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, including elephant, tiger, leopard, wild dog, striped hyena, sloth bear, gaur, sambhar, chital, and four-horned antelope.
- Riverine Wildlife: Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary is also home to two important riverine wildlife species: the smooth-coated otter and the marsh crocodile, emphasizing its rich biodiversity.
Conservation Efforts
- Buffer Area: Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and serves as a buffer area for Bandipur Tiger Reserve.
- Ecological Significance: This sanctuary offers an inviolate and ideal habitat for tigers and elephants, making it a prime candidate for Core/Critical Tiger Habitat status within Bandipur TR.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: International Space Station (ISS)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- This 20th November marked the 25th anniversary of the launch of the International Space Station (ISS), the largest man-made object in the solar system.
- Since its launch on November 20, 1998, the ISS has stood as a testament to the power of international cooperation and has space research.
About the International Space Station (ISS)
- Orbital Marvel: The International Space Station (ISS), orbiting 430 kilometers above Earth, completes 16 orbits daily, witnessing 16 sunrises and sunsets.
- Speed: The ISS orbits Earth every 90 minutes at 8 kilometers per second.
- Size: Spanning 109 meters, it’s almost as long as an American football field.
- Living Quarters: The ISS includes 6 sleeping areas, two bathrooms, a gym, and a panoramic view bay window.
- Solar Array and Wiring: Its solar array wingspan is 109 meters, and the station houses about 13 kilometers of electrical wiring.
Inception and Key Milestones
- Launch of Zarya: The ISS’s journey began on November 20, 1998, with Russia’s Zarya Control Module.
- Unity Node 1: The U.S. added the Unity Node 1 module on December 4, 1998, marking the start of a functional space lab.
- 42 Assembly Flights: The station evolved into its current form after 42 assembly flights.
- Continuous Habitation: Since its inception, the ISS has been continuously inhabited, hosting astronauts from various countries for groundbreaking research.
Key Activities
- Scientific Research: Astronauts conduct unique experiments, leading to significant discoveries.
- Spacewalks and Maintenance: Regular spacewalks are essential for station upgrades and repairs.
- Health Regimen: Astronauts follow strict routines to combat muscle and bone loss in microgravity, providing valuable data for future space missions.
Scientific Contributions
- Medical Advances: Research on the ISS has enhanced our understanding of diseases like Alzheimer’s and cancer.
- Drug Development: Space research has expedited drug development processes.
- Technological Innovations: Innovations in water purification and food production have emerged from ISS experiments.
Future of the ISS
- Current Uncertainties: The Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022 casts doubt on the ISS’s future.
- Global Space Ambitions: Countries like Japan, China, and India are aiming for independent space capabilities.
- Continued Commitment: The US and Europe plan to support the ISS through 2030, with NASA focusing on lunar exploration and ESA developing the Starlab space station.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Materialism's Names in India
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- This article explores materialism’s origins, its various cultural names, and its ethical implications.
Introduction to Materialism
- Philosophy as a Life Theory: Known as ‘Darshan’ in Sanskrit, philosophy seeks to explain the universe and guide human actions with a comprehensive worldview.
- Materialism – Bhautikvad: This perspective, called ‘Bhautikvad’ in Sanskrit, views everything as fundamentally material, dismissing the supernatural and valuing empirical observation and perception for knowledge.
Origins of Materialism
- Ancient Beginnings: Materialism has deep roots and appears in different forms across cultures.
- Indian Lokāyata: In India, materialism, known as Lokāyata, was championed by thinkers like Brhaspati, Ajita, and Jābāli. It focused on the physical world, rejecting theism.
- Greek Atomism: Greek philosophers such as Democritus and Epicurus adopted materialism, with Democritus introducing the idea of atoms as reality’s basic elements.
Materialism’s Names in India
- Lokāyata: Meaning ‘worldly philosophy’, it emphasizes worldly objects and entities.
- Chárváka: From ‘charv’, meaning ‘to chew’, it highlights materialism’s hedonic aspects.
- Bhautikvad: From ‘Bhautika’, meaning ‘physical or material’, it underscores the importance of materiality.
- Jadavāda: Focuses on the ‘jada’ or essence of existence.
- Dehātmavāda: Highlights the unity of the self (‘atman’) with the body (‘deha’).
Materialist Ontology
- Perception as Knowledge Basis: Materialists view perception as the cornerstone of knowledge.
- Use of Inference: Contrary to some beliefs, materialists did employ logical inference based on perceptual evidence.
- Disregarding Divine Agency: They dismissed the idea of divine providence and supernatural realms, focusing on the human world.
Ethics of Materialism
- Emphasis on Pleasure: Materialism is often linked with enjoying life’s pleasures.
- Living in the Present: The principle “yāvat jīvēt sukham jīvēt” advocates for a fulfilling present life.
- Human-Created Values: Materialists view values as human constructs, independent of divine morality.
- Action and Responsibility: They stress the impact of one’s actions on themselves and the world, highlighting ethical conduct.
Materialist Views on Heaven and Hell
- Earthly Heaven and Hell: Materialists redefined heaven and hell in worldly terms.
- Heaven as Earthly Enjoyment: Heaven was perceived as enjoying life’s luxuries, akin to the gods’ enjoyment in mythological heavens.
- Hell as Earthly Suffering: Hell was seen as earthly suffering, like diseases and hunger.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Bangladesh's Elections
Central Idea
- In recent months, Western nations, including the US, UK, and EU have been urging Bangladesh to hold free, fair, and participatory elections.
- These calls have been accompanied by pressure on the Sheikh Hasina government to step down and allow a neutral caretaker administration to oversee the upcoming parliamentary elections in January.
- While the US has eased its stance under Indian intervention, the EU continues to exert pressure.
This article explores the intricate dynamics of Bangladesh’s political landscape, the potential consequences of fair elections, and the global interests at stake.
Fair Elections vs. Radical Islamists
- Opposition Demands: The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) demands elections under a caretaker government, which the government has rejected.
- Potential Outcome: With the BNP unlikely to participate, the elections may result in a one-sided contest favoring the Awami League, returning Sheikh Hasina to power for the fourth time.
- Anti-Incumbency: After 15 years in power, the Awami League faces significant anti-incumbency, exacerbated by record-high inflation and economic challenges.
- Economic Crisis: Falling forex reserves, currency depreciation, and mounting external debt have created a looming debt crisis.
- Chinese Loans: Much of the infrastructure development relies on high-interest loans from China.
Authoritarianism and Islamist Influence
- Authoritarian Practices: The Awami League’s authoritarian measures, including arrests and harassment of opposition leaders, have fueled resentment among the masses.
- Corruption and Nepotism: Perceived corruption and nepotism within the Awami League have widened the gap between the government and the impoverished population.
- Islamist Influence: The Awami League’s encouragement of Islamist groups like Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh has created a toxic environment within the ruling party.
- Radicalization: Islamist organizations, through religious schools and mosques, have radicalized a significant portion of the population, especially the youth.
- Islamist Opposition: The Islamist parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, Hefazat, and Islami Oikyo Jote, now fill the opposition space.
- Political Analyst’s Perspective: Political analysts argue that the Awami League’s crackdown on the BNP has inadvertently strengthened Islamist parties, which seek to implement strict Sharia laws and turn Bangladesh into an Islamic state.
Potential Outcomes of Equitable Elections
- Rise of Jihad: Fair and equitable elections may pave the way for radical Islamist parties to come to power.
- Jamaat-e-Islami: Despite being banned from contesting elections, Jamaat nominees may run as Independents or on tickets from other parties, potentially leading to their victory.
- Radicalists Victory: Political observers suggest that non-partisan elections would likely result in Islamist parties sweeping the polls and gaining power.
- Impact on India: The rise of Islamists in Bangladesh could negatively affect India, potentially aligning Bangladesh with Pakistan and China, and posing a threat to India’s interests.
- Global Concerns: An Islamist-controlled Bangladesh could become a breeding ground for jihadis and a potential failed state, posing a danger to global security.
World’s Interest in the Election Process
- Global Implications: Given the far-reaching consequences of Islamist rule in Bangladesh, the world has a vested interest in allowing the election process to proceed with limited interference.
- Focus on Future Actions: While the elections may be flawed or unfair, the priority should be to ensure that after returning to power, the Awami League commits to keeping China at bay, curbing Islamist forces, allowing a responsible and secular opposition to thrive, and cleansing the party of Islamist elements.
- Securing Bangladesh’s Future: Striking a balance between a flawed elections and securing Bangladesh’s democratic and secular future is essential for the world’s stability and security.
Conclusion
- The upcoming elections in Bangladesh present a complex dilemma for both the nation and the world.
- While free and fair elections could bring radical Islamists to power, their absence could lead to continued authoritarianism.
- Striking the right balance and securing Bangladesh’s future as a democratic and secular nation is paramount to global stability and peace.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Southern Annular Mode (SAM)
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), a division under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), has made a significant discovery regarding the Southern Annular Mode (SAM), a crucial climate pattern.
- Their research has revealed that SAM plays a pivotal role in influencing sea conditions across the Indian Ocean.
What is Southern Annular Mode (SAM)?
|
Description
|
| Idea behind |
- Mode of atmospheric variability representing north-south movement of the westerly wind belt around Antarctica.
- Also known as Antarctic Oscillation (AAO).
|
| Phases |
- Positive Phase: Wind belt contracts towards Antarctica.
- Negative Phase: Wind belt expands towards the equator.
|
| Impact on Weather Patterns |
- Influences temperature, rainfall, and storm intensity in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Causes difference in the zonal mean sea level pressure at 40°S (mid-latitudes) and 65°S (Antarctica).
|
| Influence on Indian Ocean |
Affects ocean currents and sea surface temperatures, impacting regional weather and marine life. |
| Climate Change Connection |
Trend towards more positive phases in recent decades, influenced by human-induced climate change. |
| Effect on Antarctic Ice |
Impacts Antarctic ice sheets and sea ice extent through changes in wind patterns. |
| Global Climate Interaction |
Interacts with other climate phenomena like ENSO. |
| Predictability and Variability |
Exhibits seasonal predictability and interannual variability, important for long-term forecasting. |
| Marine Ecosystems |
Affects marine ecosystems in the Southern Ocean, influencing productivity and species distribution. |
Role of Ocean Surface Waves
- Coastal Processes: Ocean surface waves are key players in shaping coastal processes, impacting shoreline erosion, sediment transport, coastal engineering, and recreational activities.
- Scientific Approach: The scientific team leveraged 40 years of data (1979 to 2018) from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecast.
Positive and Negative SAM Phases
- Positive SAM Phase: During a positive SAM phase, a cyclic pattern of warm sea surface temperature anomalies emerges, accompanied by strong winds that increase wave activity in the Indian Ocean. A new swell generation region along the east African coast contributes to heightened wave heights in the Arabian Sea.
- Negative SAM Phase: Conversely, during a negative SAM phase, the eastern tropical southern Indian Ocean becomes the primary region for generating swells, resulting in reduced wave heights in the Arabian Sea.
Significance of SAM
- Coastal Planning: Understanding SAM allows for better coastal planning, helping coastal communities prepare for the impact of changing sea conditions.
- Resource Management: SAM insights can aid in more efficient resource management, optimizing the utilization of marine resources.
- Disaster Preparedness: Knowledge of SAM patterns can enhance disaster preparedness efforts, enabling timely response to potential ocean-related disasters.
- Wave Predictions: The research contributes to improving wave predictions, offering advanced forecasting capabilities.
- Benefiting Stakeholders: Stakeholders in the blue economy, including shipping, maritime boards, and the oil industry, can optimize their multi-million-dollar operations at sea based on SAM insights.
Implications for Various Sectors
- Monsoon Season Impact: Typically, inland vessel operations and oil exploration activities face restrictions during the monsoon season.
- Fair Sea State Windows: Predicting SAM phases through the Ocean Forecasting System can identify “Fair Sea state windows” during monsoons.
- Impact on Blue Economy: These fair windows can be leveraged by oil and shipping industries, making a significant contribution to blue economy activities along the Indian coast
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
