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  • J&K – The issues around the state

    In 2024, newer districts are affected by militancy in Jammu   

    Explained | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Disaster Management

    Why in the News?

    An ambush resulted in the deaths of five Indian Army personnel  which highlights a worrying trend of increasing violence in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Jammu region.

    • This incident marks the fourth terror attack in the state within a span of 48 hours, indicating a surge in militant activities.

    Observations on Militancy Leading to Civilian Deaths

    • The new wave of terrorism: The region has seen a resurgence of violence after a period of relative peace, with notable incidents such as the June 9 attack on a bus carrying Hindu pilgrims, resulting in nine deaths. This shift in militancy is particularly concerning as it reflects a new wave of terrorism, especially in areas like Rajouri and Poonch, which had previously been stable.
    • Changing dynamics of Terrorism: There is a notable transition from foreign terrorists leading attacks to local militants becoming more prominent.

    Developments in Militancy (2014-2024)

    • Surge in Violence Post-2016: The killing of Hizbul Mujahideen militant Burhan Wani in July 2016 sparked widespread unrest and violence, leading to a resurgence in militant activities. This period saw increased recruitment of local youth into militant ranks, particularly within groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.
    • Major Attacks: Notable incidents include the 2016 Uri attack, where militants killed 19 soldiers, and the 2019 Pulwama attack, which resulted in the deaths of 40 CRPF personnel. These attacks highlighted the persistent threat posed by organized militant groups.
    • Revocation of Article 370: The abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status in August 2019 led to a significant shift in the political landscape. While the Indian government claimed a reduction in violence, there were still notable attacks, such as the
    • Emergence of Hybrid Militancy: A new trend termed “hybrid militancy” has emerged, where individuals engage in militant activities sporadically while maintaining their civilian lives.
    • Decline in Active Militants: By the end of 2022, the number of active militants had fallen to just over 100, down from around 250 in 2019. However, the presence of foreign militants has reportedly increased, indicating a shift in the composition of militant forces.
    • Increased Counter-Insurgency Operations: The Indian security forces have intensified operations against militants, resulting in the deaths of approximately 750 militants over the last four years, with a significant proportion being local youths.
    • Changing Tactics and Technology: Militants have increasingly utilized modern technology, including drones and social media, to coordinate attacks and recruit members, presenting new challenges for security forces.

    Way forward: 

    • Addressing Recruitment Cycles: Government need to make initiatives aimed at preventing youth recruitment into militant groups. This can include educational programs, vocational training, and employment opportunities that provide alternatives to joining militant organizations.
    • Enhanced Intelligence and Local Engagement: The need to Strengthen local intelligence networks is crucial to preemptively identify and disrupt militant activities.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q  Analyse the complexity and intensity of terrorism, its causes, linkages and obnoxious nexus. Also suggest measures required to be taken to eradicate the menace of terrorism. (2021)

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  • Disasters and Disaster Management – Sendai Framework, Floods, Cyclones, etc.

    Landslides in Wayanad

    Explained | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Disaster Management

    Why in the News?

    Many people have died, and hundreds are feared trapped after three landslides hit Kerala’s Wayanad district.

    About Wayanad

    • Wayanad is the only plateau in Kerala, forming a continuation of the Mysore Plateau, part of the Deccan Plateau.
    • The Kabini River, a tributary of the Kaveri River, originates in Wayanad.
    • The Chaliyar River, the fourth longest river in Kerala, also originates on the Wayanad plateau.
    • Wayanad is home to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

    Susceptibility to Landslides:

    • The region predominantly has laterite soil, which is highly prone to erosion.
    • The steep and undulating terrain of Wayanad makes it naturally susceptible to landslides.
    • Wayanad receives intense and prolonged monsoon rains that cause water infiltration, leading to soil saturation and increased pore water pressure, which destabilizes slopes.
    • Large-scale deforestation for agriculture and settlement reduces the binding capacity of the soil and its ability to absorb water, exacerbating the risk of landslides.

    What are Landslides?

    • A landslide is the downward and outward movement of materials including rock, earth, or debris down a slope due to gravitational force. Landslides are disasters of hydrogeological origin, resulting from the failure of materials falling down a slope due to gravity.
    • India is among the top five landslide-prone countries globally, with at least one death per 100 sq km reported annually due to landslides.

    Regional Distribution

    • North-western Himalayas: 66.5% of landslides.
    • North-eastern Himalayas: 18.8% of landslides.
    • Western Ghats: 14.7% of landslides.

    Key Policy Initiative: National Landslide Susceptibility Map

    • The National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) under ISRO released the Landslide Atlas of India in 2023.
    • This detailed guide identifies landslide hotspots across the country with a 100 sq. m resolution overview of landslide susceptibility.
    • The map highlights traditional high-risk areas and uncovers new regions of concern, broadening the scope of landslide monitoring.
    • Scientists conducted a risk assessment based on 80,000 landslides recorded between 1998 and 2022 across 147 districts in 17 states and two Union Territories, creating a “Landslide Atlas” of the country.

    Key Highlights of the Landslide Atlas:

    Top States by Landslide Events:

    • Mizoram: 12,385 events in the past 25 years.
    • Uttarakhand: 11,219 events.
    • Other states: Kerala, Jammu and Kashmir, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Tripura.

    Districts with Maximum Landslide Exposure:

    • Arunachal Pradesh: 16 districts.
    • Kerala: 14 districts.
    • Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir: 13 districts each.
    • Himachal Pradesh, Assam, and Maharashtra: 11 districts each.
    • Mizoram: 8 districts.
    • Nagaland: 7 districts.

    Highest Landslide Density and Risk Exposure:

    • Rudraprayag and Tehri Garhwal districts in Uttarakhand.

    PYQ:

    [2021] Describe the various causes and the effects of landslides. Mention the important components of the National Landslide Risk Management Strategy.

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  • What is Oropouche Fever?

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Why in the News?

    Brazil has reported the first deaths from Oropouche fever.

    About Oropouche Fever

    • Oropouche fever is a viral disease caused by the Oropouche virus.
    • The virus is transmitted primarily through the bites of infected midges, specifically the Culicoides paraensis, and mosquitos.
    • The World Health Organization (WHO) reported the first-ever outbreak in Cuba on June 11, 2024.

    Symptoms:

    • Symptoms are similar to those of dengue fever and typically begin between four to eight days after the bite.
    • Common symptoms include:
      • Sudden onset of fever
      • Headaches
      • Body aches
      • Chills
      • Joint stiffness
      • Nausea and vomiting (occasionally)
    • Most patients recover within seven days, and severe cases are rare.
    • There is no evidence of human-to-human transmission.

    Treatment and Prevention

    • There is no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment for Oropouche fever.
    • Treatment is usually symptomatic, focusing on relieving fever and pain.
    • Preventative measures include avoiding bites from midges and mosquitos by using repellents, wearing protective clothing, and using insect nets.

    PYQ:

    [2010] Widespread resistance of malarial parasites to drugs like chloroquine has prompted attempts to develop a malarial vaccine to combat malaria. Why is it difficult to develop an effective malaria vaccine?

    (a) Malaria is caused by several species of Plasmodium
    (b) Man does not develop immunity to malaria during natural infection
    (c) Vaccines can be developed only against bacteria
    (d) Man is only an intermediate host and not the definitive host

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  • Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

    What is FnCas9 Enzyme?

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T

    Why in the News?

    • Scientists from the “CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology” have developed an enhanced genome-editing system using FnCas9 that can modify DNA more precisely and more efficiently than existing CRISPR-based technologies.
      • CRISPR occurs naturally in some bacteria, as a part of their immune system that limits infections by recognizing and destroying viral DNA.

    What is FnCas9?

    • FnCas9 is a variant of the Cas9 enzyme derived from the bacterium Francisella novicida.
    • It is used in genome editing technologies, particularly within the CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) system, to make precise modifications to DNA sequences.

    What is CRISPR-Cas9 System?

    • CRISPR-Cas9 is a revolutionary genome-editing tool adapted from a natural bacterial defense mechanism against viruses.
    • Bacteria use CRISPR sequences to store segments of viral DNA, which helps them recognize and combat viruses in subsequent infections.
    • The most commonly used Cas9 enzyme is derived from Streptococcus pyogenes.

    Mechanism:

    • Guide RNA (gRNA): A specifically designed RNA molecule that matches the target DNA sequence.
    • Cas9 Enzyme: Acts as molecular scissors that cut DNA at a location specified by the gRNA.
    • Proto-spacer Adjacent Motif (PAM): A short DNA sequence adjacent to the target site that Cas9 must recognize and bind to in order to cut the DNA.
    • DNA Repair: Once the DNA is cut, the cell’s natural repair mechanisms either repair the break or introduce desired genetic changes.

    Applications:

    • Agriculture: Enhancing crop yield and nutritional value.
    • Healthcare: Diagnosing and treating genetic disorders.
    • Research: Studying gene functions and interactions.

    Challenges with Traditional Cas9: SpCas9 can sometimes cut DNA at unintended sites, leading to potential unintended genetic modifications.

    How FnCas9 overpowers traditional Cas9 (SpCas9)?

    • FnCas9 is known for its higher specificity in targeting DNA sequences compared to SpCas9, resulting in fewer off-target effects.
    • More accurate targeting reduces unintended genetic modifications.
    • It ensures more reliable and safer genome editing.

    Achievements by Indian Scientists

    • Scientists at the CSIR-IGIB in New Delhi have modified FnCas9 to enhance its efficiency without compromising specificity.
    • Key Modifications include:
      • Amino Acid Tinkering: Researchers modified amino acids in FnCas9 that interact with the PAM sequence to increase binding affinity.
      • Improved Binding: Enhanced binding affinity allows FnCas9 to sit more securely on the DNA, improving gene-editing effectiveness.
      • Flexibility: The enhanced FnCas9 can access and edit hard-to-reach regions of the genome.

    Experimental Results:

    • Enhanced FnCas9 cuts target DNA at a higher rate than the unmodified version.
    • FnCas9 improved ability to detect single-nucleotide changes in the genome, broadening its diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
    PYQ:

    [2019] What is Cas9 protein that is often mentioned in news?

    (a) A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing

    (b) A biosensor used in the accurate detection of pathogens in patients

    (c) A gene that makes plants pest-resistant

    (d) A herbicidal substance synthesized in genetically modified crops

    [2016] In the context of the developments in Bioinformatics, the term ‘transcriptome’, sometimes seen in the news, refers to:

    (a) a range of enzymes used in genome editing

    (b) the full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism

    (c) the description of the mechanism of gene expression

    (d) a mechanism of genetic mutations taking place in cells

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  • Defence Sector – DPP, Missions, Schemes, Security Forces, etc.

    DAC approves amendment to MQ-9B UAV deal with US

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Indigenization Of Technology

    Why in the News?

    • The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has reviewed and approved amendments to the deal for 31 MQ-9B High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) from General Atomics of the US.
      • The DAC also approved a proposal for the scheduled refit of aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya later this year.

    About MQ-9B HALE UAV

    • The MQ-9B drone is a version of the MQ-9 “Reaper” and has two models: Sky Guardian and Sea Guardian.
    • It is built by the General Atomics.
    • This drone can fly over 40,000 feet high, making it useful for watching the Himalayan border areas.
    • It can stay in the air for up to 40 hours, perfect for long surveillance missions.
    • The MQ-9B has advanced features like automatic take-off and landing, a system to avoid other objects, secure GPS, and encrypted communications.
    • It can offer 80% of a manned aircraft’s capabilities at 20% of the cost per hour.
    • Deployment:
      • The MQ-9B drones are planned to be deployed at four places, including INS Rajaji near Chennai and Porbandar in Gujarat, by the Indian Navy.
      • The other two services will keep them jointly at two bases in Sarsawa and Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh at Air Force bases due to long runway requirements.

    Specifications of the Procurement:

    • India is looking to procure 31 MQ-9B UAVs, including 15 Sea Guardians for the Indian Navy and 16 Sky Guardians (eight each for the Indian Army and Air Force).
    • The Indian Navy has leased two MQ-9As with the maiden flight taking place on November 21, 2020.
    • The estimated cost is $3.99 billion.
    • As part of the deal, General Atomics will establish a Global Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India, contributing to offset obligations.

    Significance of the deal

    • The SeaGuardian model can help the Navy patrol large areas more economically than manned aircraft.
    • For the Army and Air Force, these drones will help monitor movements along the borders, especially with China.

    Back2Basics: Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)

    Details
    Constitution Established under the Defence Ministry for guiding defence procurement planning.
    Role Highest decision-making body in the Defence Ministry for new policies and capital acquisitions for the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Indian Coast Guard.
    Formation Created in 2001 following recommendations on reforming the National Security System after the Kargil War.
    Chairman Minister of Defence.
    Members Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Minister of State for Defence, Three Service Chiefs (Army, Navy, Air Force), Chief of Integrated Staff Committees, Defence Secretary, Secretary Defence Research & Development.
    Functions
    • In-principle approval of the 15 Year Long-Term Integrated Perspective Plan for Defence Forces.
    • Accord of Acceptance of Necessity for acquisition proposals.
    • Categorize acquisition proposals into ‘Buy’, ‘Buy & Make’, and ‘Make’.
    • Decisions on offset provisions for acquisitions above Rs. 300 crores.
    • Decisions regarding the transfer of technology under the ‘Buy & Make’ category.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news?

    (a) An Israeli radar system

    (b) India’s indigenous anti-missile programme

    (c) An American anti-missile system

    (d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    Specie in news: Charles Darwin’s Frog

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Why in the News?

    • The Charles Darwin frog, a species native to the Andaman Islands, is exhibiting unusual mating and egg-laying behaviors. 

    About Charles Darwin’s Frog

    • Charles Darwin’s frog, scientifically known as Minervarya charlesdarwini, is a frog species endemic to the Andaman Islands.
    • This species is named after the famous naturalist Charles Darwin.
    • It belongs to the family Dicroglossidae, a large group of Asian frogs with over 220 species.
    • Detailed morphological descriptions and specific physical characteristics are still being studied.
    • The species is listed as VULNERABLE on the International Union for Conservation (IUCN) Red List.

    Study and Findings:

    • The frog species engages in upside-down mating and egg-laying behavior.
    • The frogs increasingly use artificial objects, such as plastic sapling bags and discarded containers, as breeding sites.
    • This shift is likely a response to habitat loss and fragmentation, forcing the frogs to adapt to rapidly changing environments.

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to India’s biodiversity, Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Gray-chinned minivet and White-throated redstart are:

    (a) Birds
    (b) Primates
    (c) Reptiles
    (d) Amphibians

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Surprising ‘Dark Oxygen’ discovery could ensnarl deep-sea mining    

    Explained | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Why in the News?

    Scientists reported on July 22 in Nature Geoscience that an unknown process is generating oxygen in the deep oceans, where photosynthesis is not possible due to the lack of light.

    About the recent study:

    • Discovery of Oxygen: Scientists reported an unknown process producing oxygen in the deep ocean, specifically in the abyssal zone, where photosynthesis is not feasible due to insufficient sunlight.
    • Location of Study: The study was conducted in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, located off Mexico’s west coast, which is known for having the highest concentration of polymetallic nodules.
    • Oxygen Measurement: At a depth of 4 km, researchers observed unexpected increases in oxygen levels, sometimes tripling within two days, contrary to expectations of decreasing levels due to consumption by marine life.
    • Source of Oxygen: The researchers hypothesized that the oxygen could be generated by polymetallic nodules, which may create electric charges that split water molecules, releasing oxygen. The nodules exhibited voltages up to 0.95 V, suggesting they could function like battery cells.

    What is Deep-Sea Mining?

    • Deep-Sea Mining: It involves extracting minerals from the ocean floor at great depths, targeting resources such as polymetallic nodules, polymetallic sulphides, and cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts.

    Economic and Strategic Importance of Deep-sea Mining:

    • Resource Potential: The Clarion-Clipperton Zone holds substantial reserves, including 6 billion tonnes of manganese, and over 200 million tonnes each of copper and nickel, making it a significant target for future mining operations.
    • International Contracts: The International Seabed Authority has granted exploration contracts to various contractors, including the Government of India, for deep-sea mining activities.

    What is Dark Oxygen?

    • “Dark oxygen” refers to the oxygen found in the deep ocean, specifically in regions where photosynthesis cannot occur due to the absence of sunlight. In such areas, known as the abyssal zone, oxygen levels are typically low and depend on global ocean circulation for replenishment.

    Impact of Deep-Sea Mining

    • Ecological Concerns:
      • Potential Damage: The recent findings highlight the potential risks of deep-sea mining to unique marine ecosystems that depend on ‘dark oxygen’. There is concern that mining could disrupt these ecosystems, leading to significant and possibly irreversible environmental impacts.
      • Historical Evidence: Previous experiments, such as the DISCOL Experiment, have shown long-term ecological damage from simulated mining activities, including reduced biodiversity and altered sedimentological profiles.
    • Industry Response and Challenges:
      • Insurance Withdrawal: In response to growing concerns, major European insurance companies announced they would exclude deep-sea mining from their underwriting portfolios.
      • Sustainability Issues: The new discovery of ‘dark oxygen’ adds complexity to the debate on deep-sea mining. If sustainable practices are not implemented, such mining could become unfeasible due to its potential negative impacts on marine ecosystems.

    Way forward: 

    • Develop Comprehensive Environmental Regulations: The Government should establish and enforce robust environmental regulations and impact assessment protocols for deep-sea mining.
    • Promote Sustainable Mining Practices: Need to invest in research and innovation to develop and implement technologies and methods that minimize environmental impact.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Coastal sand mining, whether legal or illegal, poses one of the biggest threats to our environment. Analyse the impact of sand mining along the Indian coasts, citing specific examples. (2019)

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  • Climate Change Negotiations – UNFCCC, COP, Other Conventions and Protocols

    What is South Africa’s new law on climate change?   

    Explained | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Why in the news?

    President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a law imposing mandatory emission curbs on large industries and requiring climate adaptation plans to meet South Africa’s Paris Agreement commitments.

    Features of the Law:

    • Mandatory Emission Curbs: The legislation imposes mandatory limits on emissions from large, fossil-fuel-heavy industries.
    • Climate-Adaptation Plans: It requires towns and villages to develop and implement climate-adaptation plans.
    • Emissions Reduction Commitments: The law aims to help South Africa meet its emissions reduction commitments under the Paris Agreement.

    Significance of this law: 

    • Data-Driven Approach: The law is based on emissions data and trends, such as the decrease from 512 Mt CO2e in 2017 to 405 Mt CO2e in 2022 will help in sustained efforts in emission reduction.
    • Reduction in Emissions: The law aims to significantly reduce South Africa’s greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with the Paris Agreement. This is a crucial step for South Africa’s status as one of the top 15 GHG emitters globally.
    • Transition from Coal: South Africa relies heavily on coal for electricity generation. The bill’s mandatory curbs on emissions from large, fossil-fuel-heavy industries are a critical step towards reducing dependence on coal and shifting towards cleaner energy sources.

    Does India have an omnibus legislation on climate change?

    • No Comprehensive Legislation: India does not have a comprehensive, omnibus legislation specifically addressing climate change.
    • Climate Change in Existing Acts: Climate change is addressed within multiple existing Acts and subordinate legislation, such as the Environmental Protection Act, Forest Conservation Act, Energy Conservation Act, and Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act.
    • Private Member’s Bill: A Private Member’s Bill called the Council on Climate Change Bill was proposed by Rajya Sabha parliamentarian Priyanka Chaturvedi in 2022, which aimed to establish a Council to advise the Union government on climate change matters, but there has been no significant progress on this bill.
    • Supreme Court Ruling: The Supreme Court recognized the “right against the adverse effects of climate change” and highlighted the need for comprehensive climate change legislation, linking the impact of climate change to citizens’ rights of liberty, life, and equality.

    Way forward: 

    • Comprehensive Legislation and Institutional Framework: India should work towards enacting comprehensive climate change legislation that integrates and harmonizes existing laws related to environmental protection, energy conservation, and pollution control.
    • Enhanced Research and Implementation Support: Need to invest in extensive scientific research to evaluate the efficacy and potential impacts of transitioning to low-carbon and renewable energy sources.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Climate change is a global problem. How India will be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India will be affected by climate change? (2017)

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  • Organic Farming – Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojna (PKVY), NPOF etc.

    Should India focus on natural farming?    

    Explained | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Agriculture and related issues

    Why in the news?

    In the 2024-25 Budget proposals, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman declared that over the next two years, one crore farmers nationwide will be introduced to natural farming, with support provided through certification and branding.

    National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF):

    • The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) aims to encourage farmers to adopt chemical-free farming practices and willingly shift to natural farming based on the merits of the system.
    • The government believes the success of NMNF hinges on changing farmers’ behaviour to transition from chemical-based inputs to cow-based, locally-produced inputs, supported by a financial outlay of ₹4,645.69 crore over six years (2019-20 to 2024-25) under the ‘Bharatiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati’ scheme.

    What is natural farming?

    • Natural farming avoids the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, instead promoting traditional indigenous practices. 
    • It focuses on recycling on-farm biomass, employing biomass mulching, and utilizing formulations made from cow dung and urine.
    • Pests are managed through diverse farming practices and on-farm botanical mixtures, strictly excluding all synthetic chemical inputs.

    What are the concerns related to Yield?

    • Yield Reduction: Agricultural experts are concerned that a large-scale transition to natural farming could result in reduced crop yields. Studies have shown significant declines in yield for staples like wheat (59%) and basmati rice (32%) compared to integrated crop management systems.
    • Food Security: Lower yields from natural farming could threaten food security in a populous country like India, potentially only being able to feed around one-third of the population with staples like wheat and rice.

    Findings on the Ground:

    • Mixed outcomes: Field experiments have shown mixed results. Some studies indicate improved yields and incomes with lower costs due to biological inputs, while others show a decline in productivity.
    • Good Results in Andra Pradesh: In Andhra Pradesh, adopting natural farming methods has shown promising results, leading to better crop yields and enhanced farmers’ incomes.
    • Concerns about sustainability and productivity: Agro-scientists from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Indian Institute of Farming Systems Research (IIFSR) have raised concerns about the sustainability and productivity of natural farming methods.

    Differences in Studies:

    • CESS Study: The Centre for Economic and Social Studies (CESS) and Institute for Development Studies Andhra Pradesh found that natural farming practices led to improved yields and incomes for farmers, thereby enhancing food and nutritional security.
    • ICAR-IIFSR Study: The study by ICAR-IIFSR reported a significant decline in yields of key crops like wheat and basmati rice when compared to conventional farming practices, suggesting a negative impact on food supply.

    Case study of Sri Lanka:

    • Policy Shift: Sri Lanka’s decision to completely switch to organic farming and ban chemical fertilizers led to economic and political turmoil.
    • Yield Decline: Farmers struggled to obtain natural fertilizers, resulting in reduced yields of key crops, including rice.
    • Food Security Risk: The shift put the country’s food security at risk, causing sharp price escalations and widespread protests and unrest.

    Way forward: 

    • Localized Implementation and Scientific Validation: Need to conduct rigorous scientific studies and extensive field trials to validate the productivity and viability of natural farming methods before scaling them up nationwide.
    • Hybrid Approach and Support for Farmers: Govt. should adopt a hybrid approach that combines the best practices of both natural and conventional farming to ensure food security.  

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  • Right To Privacy

    SC to examine acquitted man’s ‘Right to be Forgotten’: What is this right, and how have courts ruled earlier?    

    Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

    Why in the News?

    Last week, the Supreme Court agreed to hear a case that could define the scope of the “Right to be Forgotten” referred to in European privacy law as the “Right to Erasure” in India.

    What is the ‘Right to be Forgotten’?

    • The right to be forgotten allows individuals to remove or de-index their personal information from the internet if it infringes on their right to privacy. It is based on the principle that personal data should be removed when it is outdated, irrelevant, or no longer necessary.
    • Affirmed by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) in the “Google Spain case” (2014), which ruled that search engines must remove data if it is inadequate, irrelevant, or excessive in light of the time elapsed.
    • Under the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Article 17 describes the right to erasure, reflecting the concept of informational self-determination.

    How is this ‘Right’ interpreted in India?

    • Absence of Statutory Framework: India lacks specific legislation explicitly addressing the right to be forgotten.
    • Judicial Interpretation: The 2017 Supreme Court ruling in Justice K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India recognized the right to privacy as a fundamental right. Justice S.K. Kaul’s concurring opinion suggested that the right to be forgotten involves removing personal data that is no longer necessary or relevant.
    • Judicial Guidelines: Justice Kaul outlined valid justifications for overriding this right, including freedom of expression, legal compliance, public interest, and research purposes.

    How have Courts ruled on the Issue?

    • Rajagopal vs. State of Tamil Nadu (1994): The Supreme Court recognized a “right to be let alone” but differentiated it from public records, including court decisions. Once something becomes public, privacy rights are diminished.
    • Dharamraj Bhanushankar Dave vs. State of Gujarat (2017): Gujarat HC refused to remove details of an acquittal, asserting that court orders should remain public.
    • The Registrar General (2017): Karnataka HC protected the name of a petitioner in a sensitive annulment case, aligning with trends in Western jurisdictions.
    • Delhi HC (2021): Extended the right to be forgotten to criminal cases, allowing details of an acquittal to be removed from search results to protect the petitioner’s career prospects.
    • Orissa HC (2020): Noted the need for a broader debate on the right to be forgotten, particularly concerning “revenge porn” and online content.

    Way forward: 

    • Legislative Framework Development: India should consider drafting comprehensive legislation that explicitly addresses the right to be forgotten, aligning with international standards while balancing privacy, freedom of expression, and public interest.
    • Judicial and Policy Clarity: The Supreme Court’s upcoming ruling should aim to establish a clear legal precedent on the right to be forgotten, ensuring consistency across lower courts and aligning with global practices.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on the Right to Privacy. (2017)

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