7-November-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

WHAT TRUMP 2.0 MEANS FOR INDIA

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency brings a new chapter in India-U.S. relations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who expressed strong support for Mr. Trump during his 2019 rally in Houston, may find benefits in this renewed partnership

Opportunities in India-U.S. Relations

• Stronger Trade and Defence Ties: Trump’s presidency could bring renewed focus on trade negotiations, especially the long-pending Free Trade Agreement that stalled during his last term.
• He is also expected to promote U.S. technology exports and military sales to India, possibly making more American defence equipment available.
• Energy Cooperation: Unlike the Biden administration, Trump is likely to prioritize energy trade over climate commitments, encouraging India to import American oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
• Fewer Human Rights Concerns: Under Trump, India may see less scrutiny from the U.S. on issues like minority rights, press freedoms, and treatment of NGOs. The Modi government, which often faced criticism from the Biden administration over these issues.
• Support on Regional Issues: Trump’s past interactions suggest he may align with India in its tensions with Canada, especially over the Khalistan movement, and will likely maintain a critical stance toward Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Challenges in the Partnership

• Trade Tariffs and Protectionism: Trump’s focus on reducing trade deficits may strain ties. His past term saw the imposition of tariffs and the suspension of India’s Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) status, impacting Indian exporters.
• Unpredictable Communication: Trump’s tendency to publicly share private talks with foreign leaders, occasionally with added exaggerations, could lead to diplomatic discomfort for India. During his last term, he claimed Prime Minister Modi asked him to mediate on the Kashmir issue, which India firmly denied.
• Iran and Energy Policy: Trump’s tough stance on Iran during his first term led India to halt oil imports from both Iran and Venezuela due to U.S. sanctions. This time, however, Trump may not pressure India as much on its relations with Russia, given his own preference for engaging with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Regional Impacts on Neighboring Countries

• Pakistan: Pakistan may face reduced U.S. support under Trump, who had previously cut off aid to the country. This could complicate Pakistan’s attempts to secure funding from international institutions like the IMF and World Bank.
• Bangladesh and South Asia: Trump’s remarks on social media about minority issues in Bangladesh indicate he may be less favorable toward the current Bangladeshi administration. Meanwhile, countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives could see less U.S. engagement, as Trump’s approach to South Asia may focus primarily on India.

Conclusion

While Trump’s return to the White House could deepen trade and defence ties, his assertive approach on trade and unpredictable communication may create new challenges. India will likely navigate this complex landscape by leveraging mutual interests, while also preparing for areas where Trump’s policies might diverge from New Delhi’s priorities.

SUPREME COURT’S DECISION ON U.P. MADRASA ACT

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

The Supreme Court of India recently upheld the constitutional validity of the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004. This verdict reversed the Allahabad High Court’s earlier judgment that deemed the Act unconstitutional due to alleged violations of secular principles.

What is the U.P. Madrasa Act?

• Madrasa System in India: The term “madrasah” refers to a traditional educational institution, historically rooted in religious and secular education.
• Historical Background: Madrasas date back to the Delhi Sultanate and received patronage from the Khilji and Tughlaq dynasties. Over centuries, they have provided both religious and general education.
• Purpose of the 2004 Act: Introduced by the Uttar Pradesh government, the Act aims to standardize madrasa education, regulate curriculum, examinations, and teacher qualifications, and establish the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education. The Board is largely composed of members from the Muslim community.
• Scope of the Act: Under Section 9, the Board has authority over designing course material, awarding degrees, and administering examinations for madrasas in Uttar Pradesh.

The Case Background

• Allahabad High Court’s Initial Decision: In response to a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by Anshuman Singh Rathore, the High Court questioned whether the Act adhered to secular principles. The Court ruled that religiously exclusive Boards for educational purposes contradicted secular values.
• Key Findings of the High Court: The High Court argued that the State could not maintain a board solely for Islamic studies as it neglected universal subjects like Science, Mathematics, and English, potentially compromising the quality of education for children in madrasas.

National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) Position

• NCPCR Concerns: The NCPCR questioned the suitability of madrasas as institutions for children’s education, citing concerns over funding transparency, teacher qualifications, and the lack of a holistic environment.
• Directives Issued: The NCPCR recommended that States withdraw recognition from government-aided madrasas failing to meet Right to Education (RTE) Act standards. It also advised that non-Muslim students enrolled in madrasas be transferred to state-recognized schools.
• Madrasas’ Response: Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind challenged these directives in the Supreme Court, asserting the rights of religious minorities under Article 30 of the Constitution to manage their own institutions.

Supreme Court’s Verdict

• Rejecting the High Court’s Position on Secularism: The Supreme Court ruled that the Act does not inherently violate secularism, stating that such an infraction would need to contradict a specific constitutional provision rather than general principles of the Basic Structure.
• Balancing Quality and Minority Rights: The Supreme Court emphasized that minority institutions should offer quality secular education while maintaining their religious character, aligning with Article 21A.
• Regulation within Legislative Competence: The Court clarified that education boards that regulate religiously affiliated institutions do not breach legislative competence if they include general education aspects, allowing madrasas to be regulated by the State under Entry 25 of the Concurrent List.
• Limiting Degree Issuance: The Court held that madrasas cannot award higher degrees, which fall under the UGC’s purview. However, it maintained that this restriction does not invalidate the Act itself.

Implications of the Supreme Court Decision

• Ensuring Quality Education: The ruling emphasizes the need for madrasas to offer a standard level of secular education in addition to religious studies, balancing minority educational rights with state standards.
• Reaffirming Secularism’: The verdict reinforces a flexible interpretation of secularism, accommodating diverse educational practices within the framework of Indian law.
• Impact on Madrasa Funding: The decision could influence the government’s future approach to funding madrasas, as recent funding has seen significant cuts, affecting resources for the nearly 2.7 million madrasa students and 10,000 teachers in Uttar Pradesh alone.

RNA EDITING: AN EMERGING FRONTIER IN PRECISION MEDICINE

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

RNA editing is emerging as a promising approach for treating genetic disorders, offering advantages over DNA editing due to its temporary nature and ability to reverse changes if needed.

• Recently, a Massachusetts-based company, Wave Life Sciences, achieved a breakthrough by being the first to clinically treat a genetic condition through RNA editing.

What is RNA Editing?

• Role of mRNA: Cells synthesize messenger RNA (mRNA) from DNA instructions, which are then used to produce proteins necessary for cellular functions.
• Error Correction: Errors in mRNA sequences can lead to abnormal protein formation, which may cause diseases. RNA editing allows scientists to correct these errors, leading to normal protein synthesis.
• Mechanism: RNA editing involves enzymes like ADAR (adenosine deaminase acting on RNA), which modifies specific mRNA sequences, helping to correct mutations temporarily without altering DNA.

DNA AND RNA

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid): A hereditary molecule that stores genetic information in cells. It consists of a double-stranded structure and remains stable under alkaline conditions.

• RNA (Ribonucleic Acid): Present in all living cells, RNA assists in translating DNA instructions to make proteins. It is a single-stranded molecule and less stable than DNA.

Key Differences Between DNA and RNA

Structure:

• DNA is double-stranded; RNA is single-stranded.
• DNA contains deoxyribose sugar; RNA contains ribose sugar (with one extra -OH group).

Location:

• DNA is mainly in the cell nucleus; RNA is mostly in the cytoplasm, with some in the nucleus.

Base Pairing:

• DNA bases: Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Cytosine (C), Guanine (G).
• RNA bases: Adenine (A), Uracil (U), Cytosine (C), Guanine (G).

Function:

• DNA stores and transfers genetic information for cell division.
• RNA carries DNA instructions to ribosomes for protein synthesis.

Types:

• DNA is of two types: nuclear and extranuclear.
• RNA has three main types: mRNA (messenger), tRNA (transfer), and rRNA (ribosomal).

Biological Functions of DNA and RNA

• DNA:
  • Acts as the genetic blueprint, ensuring species’ genetic continuity.
  • Capable of self-replication during cell division.
• RNA:
  • Assists in protein synthesis, using DNA’s instructions to assemble amino acids.

RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) is a molecule that carries genetic information from DNA to help make proteins in cells. It plays a crucial role in translating genetic instructions into actions within the cell.

RNA vs. DNA Editing: Key Advantages

• Temporary Edits: Unlike DNA editing, which makes permanent genomic changes, RNA editing allows temporary adjustments that fade over time. This means therapies can be stopped if issues arise, minimizing long-term risks.
• Reduced Immune Reactions: DNA editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9 use bacterial proteins, which may trigger immune responses. RNA editing relies on ADAR enzymes naturally present in humans, lowering the chance of adverse reactions.

Challenges in RNA Editing

• Precision and Specificity: ADAR enzymes may inadvertently edit unintended parts of mRNA, risking off-target effects. Researchers are working to refine gRNA accuracy to avoid these issues.
• Temporary Effect: Since RNA edits are transient, patients may need ongoing treatments to maintain therapeutic benefits.
• Delivery Mechanisms: Current delivery techniques, such as lipid nanoparticles and viral vectors, have limitations in carrying large RNA-editing components, constraining their use in some applications.

Conclusion

RNA editing represents a groundbreaking approach in gene therapy, offering reversible, safe, and specific treatments for genetic disorders. While challenges remain, the promising progress by companies and researchers suggests that RNA editing could soon become a critical tool in precision medicine, providing relief to patients with limited options today.

NGT ORDERS NEW REPORT ON TREE FELLING FOR KANWAR MARG ROAD PROJECT

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: INDIAN EXPRESS

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has asked the Survey of India to provide a fresh report on tree felling for a proposed road project on Kanwar Marg. The report will help determine whether the tree removal aligns with the approved width of 15 meters.

NGT’s Instructions

• The NGT asked the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) to provide updated satellite images from 2024 for comparison.
• The UP government needs to justify the cutting of over 33,776 trees according to environmental laws.

National Green Tribunal (NGT)

• The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was established in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act.

• It is a specialized body focused on resolving environmental issues in India.
• India became the third country globally, after Australia and New Zealand, and the first developing nation to have such a tribunal.

Objectives of NGT

• Ensure swift handling of cases related to environmental protection, forest conservation, and natural resources.
• Mandated to resolve cases within six months of filing.

Structure of NGT

• Composed of a Chairperson, Judicial Members, and Expert Members.
• Chairperson is appointed by the Central Government in consultation with the Chief Justice of India.
• Judicial and Expert Members are appointed by a Selection Committee formed by the government.
• Members serve a term of three years or until age 65, whichever is earlier, and cannot be reappointed.
• NGT operates in five cities: New Delhi (Principal Bench), Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata, and Chennai.

Powers and Jurisdiction

• Jurisdiction over civil cases involving significant environmental issues, including legal rights related to the environment.
• In 2021, the Supreme Court granted NGT suo motu powers, allowing it to address environmental issues independently.
• Can make rulings guided by natural justice and apply principles like sustainable development, the precautionary principle, and the polluter-pays principle.
• Can order: Decisions are enforceable like a civil court decree.
  • Compensation for pollution victims.
  • Restoration of damaged property.
  • Environmental restitution for affected areas.

NGT handles cases related to:

• The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
• The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977.
• The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.
• The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
• The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
• The Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991.
• The Biological Diversity Act, 2002.

• Any violations or government decisions under these laws can be challenged before the NGT.

Challenges Facing NGT

• Limited jurisdiction, excluding important acts like the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and the Forest Rights Act, 2006.
• High Courts often challenge NGT decisions, asserting their constitutional superiority.
• Limited compliance with NGT orders by stakeholders and government.
• Shortage of staff and funding leads to delays, contradicting the goal of resolving cases within six months.
• Limited number of regional benches hampers accessibility.

Notable Judgments by NGT

• Diesel Vehicle Ban (2015): Prohibited diesel vehicles over 10 years old in Delhi-NCR.
• Art of Living Festival Case (2017): Imposed ₹5 crore penalty for environmental damage on the Yamuna floodplain.
• Plastic Ban (2017): Banned plastic bags under 50 microns in Delhi to reduce animal deaths and environmental harm.

Conclusion

The NGT’s intervention underscores the importance of balancing infrastructure development with environmental protection, especially in sensitive areas like the Upper Ganga canal.

INTERNATIONAL ENERGY AGENCY (IEA)

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

The global clean energy technology market is predicted to increase from $700 billion in 2023 to over $2 trillion by 2035, reaching a value close to that of the world’s crude oil market, as per an IEA study.

About the International Energy Agency (IEA):

• Type: Autonomous intergovernmental organization under the OECD framework.
• Mission: Collaborates with governments and industries to promote a secure and sustainable energy future.

Background:

• Established: 1974, following the 1973-1974 oil crisis, which highlighted industrialized countries’ vulnerability to oil import dependency.
• Original Purpose: Ensure stable oil supply and security.
• Evolving Role: Now includes monitoring global energy trends, advocating for effective energy policies, and encouraging multinational cooperation in energy technology.
• Current Focus: Includes renewable energy, environmental protection, and combating climate change.

Membership:

• Total Members: 31 member countries, 13 association countries, and 5 accession countries.
• Membership Requirements:
  • Must be an OECD member.
  • Maintain oil reserves equivalent to 90 days of the previous year’s net imports.
  • Ability to reduce oil consumption by up to 10% during demand restraint.
  • National measures for Co-ordinated Emergency Response Measures (CERM).
  • Regular reporting of oil company data.
  • Preparedness to support IEA’s collective actions.
• India’s Status: Associate member since 2017.

Key Reports Published by the IEA:

• World Energy Outlook
• World Energy Balances
• Energy Technology Perspectives
• World Energy Statistics
• Net Zero by 2050

Conclusion:

The IEA plays a vital role in shaping global energy policies, promoting renewable energy, and working towards a sustainable energy future.

VISIBLE EMISSION LINE CORONAGRAPH (VELC)

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

Scientists at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in Bengaluru have recently announced the “first significant” results from the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC), which is part of India’s ADITYA-L1 Mission.

About VELC:

• Primary Payload: VELC is the main instrument of the Aditya-L1 Mission, India’s first solar observation mission positioned 1.5 million kilometres from Earth.
• Design: It is an internally occulted solar coronagraph capable of imaging, spectroscopy, and Spectro-polarimetry near the solar limb.
• Development: Built by the IIA at its CREST campus in Hosakote, Karnataka.
• Components: Includes a coronagraph, spectrograph, polarimetry module, detectors, and additional optics.

Purpose of VELC:

• Solar Corona Observation: Focuses on observing the corona, the Sun’s outermost atmospheric layer.
• Close Imaging: Can capture images as close as 1.05 times the solar radius, the closest view achieved by any payload.
• Key Measurements: Analyses temperature, plasma velocity, and density of the corona.
• Studies Solar Phenomena: Investigates Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) and solar wind, which are crucial for understanding solar activity and its impact on space weather.

What is a Coronagraph?

• Function: A specialized tool designed to block intense sunlight, allowing researchers to view the Sun’s corona.
• Invention: Created by French astronomer Bernard Lyot in the 1930s.
• Mechanism: Uses a circular mask inside a telescope to block most of the Sun’s light, revealing the corona, which is usually visible only during solar eclipses.
• Application: Coronagraphs help filter out central light, allowing faint details, such as planetary light or solar atmospheric features, to be seen.

Conclusion:

The VELC on the Aditya-L1 mission plays a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of the solar atmosphere and space weather by capturing unprecedented data on the solar corona.

PM VISHWAKARMA SCHEME

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

Over 2 million applications have been successfully registered under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, launched in 2023.

About the Scheme:

• Launched by: Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises.
• Type: Central sector scheme.
• Duration: 5 years (FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28).
• Target Group: Artisans and craftspeople engaged in traditional trades.

Key Objectives:

• Preserving Tradition: Strengthening the Guru-Shishya tradition, which is a family-based practice of traditional skills.
• Improving Quality and Reach: Enhancing the quality and market reach of the products and services offered by artisans.
• Global Integration: Ensuring artisans are integrated into both domestic and global value chains.

Eligibility & Coverage:

• Available to rural and urban artisans across India.
• Covers 18 traditional crafts like Boat Maker, Armourer, Blacksmith, and Tool Kit Maker.
• Initial Coverage: 5 lakh families in the first year, 30 lakh families in total over 5 years.

Key Benefits:

• Tooling Facilities: Improved access to tools, enhancing productivity and efficiency for artisans and MSMEs.
• Skill Development: Training programs to meet industry standards, ensuring workforce readiness.
• Product & Process Development Support: Initiatives to improve the competitiveness of related sectors.
• Consultancy Services: Tailored consultancy and job work to meet industry needs.

PM-VIDYALAXMI SCHEME

TOPIC: (GS) POLITY: THE HINDU

The Union Cabinet approved the PM-Vidyalaxmi scheme to provide accessible and collateral-free education loans for students.

Key Details of the Scheme:

• Budget: ₹3,600 crore for 2024-2031.
• Target: Aims to benefit 7 lakh students.
• Loan Coverage:
  • Credit Guarantee: 75% government guarantee on loans up to ₹7.5 lakh.
  • Interest Subvention: 3% interest subvention on loans up to ₹10 lakh for families with an annual income below ₹8 lakh during the moratorium period.

Eligibility & Priority:

• Available to students admitted to Quality Higher Education Institutions (QHEIs).
• Priority will be given to students from government institutions pursuing technical and professional courses.

Expanding Access:

• The scheme is an expansion of the Central Sector Interest Subsidy (CSIS), which covers loans for students with family incomes below ₹4.5 lakh.
• PM-Vidyalaxmi extends benefits to a wider group, including non-technical and non-professional courses.
• Eligible Institutions: Top 100 institutions as per NIRF rankings, select state government institutions, and all central institutions—totalling 860 institutions.

CONCLUSION:

This scheme ensures better access to higher education without the burden of collateral or guarantors.