08-February-2025-Daily-Current-Affairs

TECHNOLOGY AND THE CHALLENGE OF EQUITABLE EDUCATION

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

Technology has transformed education, but its benefits have not reached everyone equally. Despite the rapid increase in digital access, challenges remain in ensuring quality education for the underprivileged.

Digital Growth in Rural India

• In the 1990s and early 2000s, India saw a surge in school enrolment, but learning outcomes remained low.
• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated digital adoption, especially in rural areas.
• ASER data shows smartphone ownership in rural households increased from 36% in 2018 to 84% in 2024.

Smartphone Access and Education

• More children aged 14-16 now own smartphones, rising from 19% to 31% in one year.
• Mothers’ smartphone access is crucial for early childhood education, but data is unclear.
• During the pandemic, smartphones were used to share study materials and virtual lessons.

Potential of Digital Learning

• Digital technology offers opportunities for open and continuing education.
• A significant portion of mothers of schoolchildren are uneducated or have low education levels.
• Educating mothers can improve children’s learning outcomes, creating a long-term impact.

Challenges in Implementing Digital Education

• Affordability of devices remains a barrier for many underprivileged students.
• As smartphones become more accessible, availability is improving.
• Language was once an issue, but now translation and dictation tools in local languages simplify learning.

Need for Structured Digital Learning

• Many children attend different types of schools or lack regular attendance, affecting learning quality.
• Some villages in Maharashtra used public broadcasts to educate children during the pandemic.
• A structured approach using community-based digital learning hubs could improve access.

Global Integration of Education through Technology

• Every civilization developed unique education systems, but technology is now unifying learning.
• While education should be universal, commercial interests often limit access to innovations.
• AI-driven learning requires higher-end devices, increasing financial constraints.

Way Forward

• India must develop a strategic roadmap to use technology for the benefit of marginalized communities.
• Public and philanthropic investments are necessary to bridge the digital divide.
• A sustainable model for digital education should focus on affordability, accessibility, and inclusivity.

Conclusion

Technology has immense potential to improve education, but without equitable access, its benefits remain limited. India must prioritize digital inclusion to ensure learning opportunities for all.

DEPORTATION OF ILLEGAL MIGRANTS FROM THE US

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: INDIAN EXPRESS

The US has regularly deported illegal migrants, including Indians, over the years. The recent deportation of 104 Indians highlights deeper global issues related to migration, inequality, and political narratives.

Background of Deportation

• The deportation of illegal migrants from the US is not new and happens every year.
• External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar explained the situation in Parliament.
• The current political climate in both India and the US adds pressure on foreign policy decisions.
• Images of deported Indians shackled and restrained have caused public concern.

Reasons Behind the Deportations

• The deportees’ plight reflects global inequalities and immigration challenges.
• The US does not allow unrestricted entry and has strict immigration laws.
• Immigration policies have been a key political issue in the US for decades.
• Former US President Donald Trump aggressively campaigned against illegal immigration, often with racial undertones.
• Deportations have occurred under both Democratic and Republican administrations.

US Immigration Policies and Enforcement

• The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has used restraints on deportees since 2012.
• The current deportation reflects broader shifts in US policies, including protectionism and stricter border controls.
• Other economic and trade issues also impact India-US relations.

Political Reactions in India

• The Opposition in India is using the deportation issue to challenge the government.
• Since the last general election, the Opposition has struggled to effectively counter the ruling party.
• The focus on political debates overlooks the deeper issues related to migration and inequality.

Anti-Immigration Sentiment in the West

• Western nations have seen a rise in anti-immigrant sentiments, often confusing legal and illegal migration.
• Many asylum seekers and refugees are wrongly labelled as criminals, increasing hostility.
• The social fabric of host nations is under strain, fueling immigration debates.

Challenges and the Way Forward

• Migration policies are complex and require nuanced discussions, not political rhetoric.
• Governments should focus on creating legal migration pathways and addressing economic disparities.
• India must work towards protecting its citizens abroad while ensuring compliance with global immigration laws.

Conclusion

Illegal migration is a sensitive issue that reflects deeper economic and political challenges. A balanced approach is needed to address deportations while ensuring the dignity and rights of migrants.

Practice Question:

1. With reference to illegal migrants in India, consider the following statements:

1. The Foreigners Act, 1946 empowers the Indian government to detect, detain, and deport illegal migrants.
2. The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 (CAA) provides citizenship to all illegal migrants residing in India before 2014.
3. The Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunals) Act, 1983 (IMDT Act) was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2005.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 1 and 3 only
3. 2 and 3 only
4. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B

Explanation:

• The Foreigners Act, 1946 grants the government the power to regulate, detect, and deport illegal migrants.
• The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 (CAA) provides citizenship only to persecuted religious minorities from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan who entered India before 31st December 2014, but excludes Muslims. It does not grant citizenship to all illegal migrants.
• The IMDT Act, 1983, which made it difficult to deport illegal migrants from Assam, was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 2005 in the Sarbananda Sonowal v. Union of India case.

SURGE IN DEAD OLIVE RIDLEY SEA TURTLES IN TAMIL NADU

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

Since January 2024, over 1,200 Olive Ridley Sea turtles have been found dead in the Chennai and Chengalpattu districts, a threefold increase compared to previous years.

Olive Ridley Sea Turtles:

• Smallest of the seven sea turtle species.

• Weigh around 45 kg and grow up to 2 feet in shell length.
• Named after their olive-coloured carapace.
• Classified as ‘Vulnerable’ under the IUCN Red List.
• Found in warm waters, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
• Known for Arribada (mass nesting phenomenon).

Importance of Olive Ridley Turtles in the Ecosystem

• Help maintain healthy seagrass and coral reefs by feeding on crustaceans and algae.
• Regulate jellyfish populations, which benefits fish larvae.
• Provide shelter for commercially important fish species.

Reasons for the Surge in Deaths

• Bottom Trawling & Gill Nets: Trawlers operate illegally within the 5-nautical-mile limit meant for small-scale fishers. Turtles get caught in fishing gear and drown.
• Lack of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs): TEDs allow turtles to escape trawl nets, but fishermen resist using them due to fears of reduced catch.

• Extended Monsoon & Rough Seas: The North-East Monsoon in 2024 lasted beyond its usual end (December 31). Strong easterly currents (Olini current) may have pushed dead turtles ashore.
• Plastic & Marine Pollution: Ingestion of plastic waste disrupts digestion and buoyancy, leading to deaths.

• Decline in Nesting: Many dead turtles were found with eggs inside, indicating potential nesting failure. In January 2024, only two nests were found compared to the usual 30 nests.

Response by Authorities

Government Measures

• Formation of a Task Force led by the Tamil Nadu Chief Wildlife Warden.
• Strengthening enforcement of trawling regulations.
• Mandatory use of TEDs in mechanized boats.
• Patrols by Forest Department, Fisheries Department, Indian Coast Guard, and Marine Police.
• Proposal for long-term monitoring including telemetry studies.

Judicial Intervention

• National Green Tribunal (NGT) Southern Bench took suo motu notice.
• Criticized Tamil Nadu government for failing to enforce TEDs and regulate trawlers.

Challenges in Conservation

• Resistance from Fishermen: Fear of income loss due to TEDs. Lack of alternative livelihood options.
• Weak Implementation of Laws: Tamil Nadu Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1983 not effectively enforced.
• Natural Factors: Changing sea currents and monsoon patterns complicate conservation efforts.

Way Forward

• Strict Enforcement of Fishing Regulations: Ensure trawlers operate beyond the 5-nautical-mile limit. Compulsory TED adoption with financial support for fishermen.
• Community Involvement & Awareness: Traditional fishers should be part of conservation efforts. Training programs to educate on sustainable fishing practices.
• Research & Monitoring: Long-term tracking of turtle migration patterns using satellite telemetry.
• Waste Management & Pollution Control: Reducing plastic waste in marine ecosystems.

Conclusion

The sudden rise in Olive Ridley turtle deaths is an ecological crisis that demands urgent intervention. A multi-stakeholder approach involving fishermen, conservationists, and authorities is necessary to ensure the survival of this keystone species and maintain marine biodiversity.

Practice Question:

1. Consider the following statements about Olive Ridley Turtles:

1. Olive Ridley Turtles are known for their mass nesting behaviour, also called arribada, where thousands of females come ashore simultaneously to lay eggs.
2. They are listed as “Critically Endangered” under the IUCN Red List.
3. India is home to some of the largest nesting sites for Olive Ridley Turtles, including Gahirmatha and Rushikulya beaches.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 1 and 2 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: C

Explanation:

• Statement 1: Olive Ridley Turtles are known for their mass nesting behaviour, called arribada, which is a unique phenomenon.
• Statement 2: Olive Ridley Turtles are classified as “Vulnerable” under the IUCN Red List, not “Critically Endangered.”
• Statement 3: India is home to some of the largest nesting sites for Olive Ridley Turtles, including Gahirmatha and Rushikulya beaches.

UNIFORM CIVIL CODE (UCC) IN UTTARAKHAND

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

The Uttarakhand government has introduced the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) to bring uniformity in civil laws related to marriage, divorce, succession, and live-in relationships.

Key Features of the Uttarakhand UCC

Marriage and Divorce

• The UCC prohibits bigamy and polygamy.
• The legal marriage age is 18 for women and 21 for men.
• Mandatory registration of marriage to ensure legal recognition.
• The provision of ‘restitution of conjugal rights’ remains, which is considered outdated.
• Only heterosexual marriages (between a male and a female) are legally recognized.

Succession Laws

• The Act follows the principles of the Hindu Succession Act, 1956, with minor modifications.
• It recognizes coparcenary rights, aligning with traditional Hindu inheritance laws.
• Testamentary succession follows the Indian Succession Act, 1925.
• It does not accommodate succession practices of other religious communities.

Live-in Relationships

• The Act mandates live-in relationships to be registered.
• Rules define duties and rights of live-in partners.
• Extends legal obligations to residents of Uttarakhand even if they live outside the state.
• Critics argue it infringes on personal freedom and privacy.

Concerns and Criticism

Constitutional Issues

• The law applies to all ‘residents’ of Uttarakhand, including central government employees and beneficiaries of central schemes, exceeding the state’s territorial jurisdiction.
• The extra-territorial reach of the law could be deemed unconstitutional.

Majoritarian Influence

• The Act prioritizes Hindu legal traditions while disregarding personal laws of other religious communities.
• It aligns with the ideology of removing “regressive personal laws” rather than promoting progressive legal reforms.

Federal and Legal Challenges

• Marriage, divorce, and succession are civil matters ideally legislated by Parliament for uniform application across India.
• If an individual from Uttarakhand moves to another state, questions arise about the applicability of this law.
• The Uttarakhand UCC may clash with existing Parliamentary laws, leading to legal disputes.

UNIFORM CIVIL CODE (UCC)

The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) refers to the proposal of a single set of laws that governs personal matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, and maintenance for all citizens, irrespective of their religion, caste, or gender. The idea behind the UCC is to replace the personal laws that currently vary for different religious communities in India, with one unified code.

Position of UCC in India:

Constitutional Context:

·       The Indian Constitution does not mandate the implementation of a UCC but encourages its adoption under Article 44 of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP).

·       Article 44 states: “The State shall endeavour to secure for the citizens a uniform civil code throughout the territory of India.” However, it is not enforceable by law, meaning it is not a fundamental right but a guiding principle for the state.

Personal Laws in India:India has diverse personal laws based on religion. For example:

• Hindu Personal Laws govern Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs.
• Muslim Personal Laws govern Muslims.
• Christian Personal Laws govern Christians.
• Parsi Personal Laws govern Parsis.

Implementation Debate:

·       The Supreme Court of India has repeatedly emphasized the need for a UCC, citing that it could help reduce gender discrimination and bring about social justice. However, there has been no legal mandate to enforce it.

Goa’s Example:

·       Goa is the only state in India that follows a uniform civil code for all its citizens, including Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. This code, known as the Goa Civil Code, was enacted in 1867 under Portuguese colonial rule and continues to govern personal matters in the state.

Conclusion

The UCC in Uttarakhand is a significant move but raises concerns regarding constitutional validity, personal freedoms, and uniform applicability. While the law claims to promote uniformity, it may lead to legal challenges and social conflicts.

Practice Question:

1. Which of the following statements regarding the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is/are correct?

1. The Uniform Civil Code aims to apply a single set of laws governing personal matters like marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption to all citizens, irrespective of their religion.
2. The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) under Article 44 of the Indian Constitution advocates the implementation of a UCC.
3. The Uniform Civil Code has already been fully implemented in India, except in the state of Goa.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 1 and 3 only
3. 2 and 3 only
4. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A

Explanation:

• The Uniform Civil Code aims to bring uniformity in personal laws relating to marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption, regardless of religion.
• Article 44 of the Constitution under the Directive Principles of State Policy encourages the implementation of a UCC.
• While Goa has a Civil Code (the Goa Civil Code), India has not yet fully implemented a Uniform Civil Code across the country. The UCC remains a subject of debate.

SUPREME COURT’S CONSIDERATION IN TAMIL NADU GOVT-GOVERNOR DISPUTE CASE

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Supreme Court is hearing a case between the Tamil Nadu government and the Governor over delays in approving state legislation. The ruling is significant as it could set a precedent for similar disputes in other states.

Key Issues in the Case

Role of the Governor in Lawmaking

• The Governor is expected to act as an impartial authority.
• Under Article 200, the Governor must either approve, reject, or refer a Bill to the President.
• Delays in decision-making can impact the democratic process.

Tamil Nadu Government’s Concern

• Tamil Nadu claims Governor R.N. Ravi has been delaying assent to Bills.
• Some Bills have been pending since January 2023, affecting governance.
• In November 2023, the state took the matter to the Supreme Court.

Supreme Court’s Observations

• The court has criticized Governors for delaying decisions on Bills.
• It has stated that Governors are not elected representatives and must act promptly.
• The SC noted that such delays undermine the democratic process.

Issues the Supreme Court Will Examine

• Withholding Assent for a Second Time: Whether the Governor can reject a Bill again after the Assembly re-passes it.
• Power to Refer Bills to the President: If the Governor has unrestricted authority to send any Bill to the President. Whether there are specific cases where this power applies.
• Governor’s Discretion in Referring Bills: Factors influencing the Governor’s decision to send a Bill to the President. Whether this power is being misused to delay governance.
• Validity of Indefinite Delay (Pocket Veto): Whether the Governor can hold a Bill indefinitely without making a decision.
• Setting a Time Frame for Assent: Whether the SC should define a clear deadline for Governors under Article 200.
• Previous Supreme Court Rulings on Governor’s Powers: In Nabam Rebia vs Deputy Speaker (2016), the SC ruled that Governors cannot withhold assent indefinitely. In November 2023, the court criticized the Punjab Governor for delaying decisions on Bills.

CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS RELATED TO THE GOVERNOR

The Governor is the constitutional head of a state and acts as a link between the state and the central government. Various provisions in the Indian Constitution define the powers, functions, and responsibilities of the Governor.

Appointment and Tenure

Article 153 – Provides for the office of the Governor in each state.
Article 155 – The President appoints the Governor.
Article 156 – The Governor holds office for a term of five years but serves at the pleasure of the President.

Executive Powers

Article 154 – The executive power of the state is vested in the Governor.
Article 163 – The Governor acts on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers, except in cases where discretion is allowed.
Article 166 – All executive actions of the state government are taken in the Governor’s name.

Legislative Powers

·       Article 174 – The Governor summons, prorogues, and dissolves the state legislature.
Article 175 – The Governor can send messages to the state legislature.
Article 200 – The Governor can assent to a Bill, withhold assent, or reserve it for the President’s consideration.
Article 201 – When a Bill is reserved for the President, the President may approve or return it.

Discretionary Powers

·       Article 163(2) – The Governor can act without ministerial advice in certain matters.
Article 356 – The Governor can recommend President’s Rule in a state if constitutional machinery fails.

Conclusion

The SC’s verdict will clarify the Governor’s role in state legislation and prevent delays that affect governance. This case will set a precedent for other states facing similar issues.

RBI’S RECENT RATE CUT AND ITS ECONOMIC IMPACT

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has started a rate-cutting cycle in February 2025, reducing the repo rate after nearly five years. This move aims to support economic growth while managing inflation and external uncertainties.

Background of the Rate Cut

• The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) cut the repo rate by 25 basis points while keeping a neutral stance.
• The last rate cut was in April 2019, followed by reductions during the pandemic, bringing the rate down to 4% in May 2020.
• This time, the rate cut is expected to be limited, with space for only one more reduction of 25 basis points in the near future.

Inflation and Growth Trends

• Inflation had exceeded 6% in late 2024, crossing the upper limit of RBI’s target range (2-6%).
• GDP growth slowed to 5.4% in Q2 2024-25, significantly lower than 8.2% in 2023-24.
• However, inflation declined in early 2025, allowing space for a rate cut.
• Future estimates: CPI inflation may fall to 4.2% in 2025-26, mainly due to lower food inflation and government policies.

External Challenges and Their Impact

• Global inflation risks persist due to tariff actions by the US and countermeasures by other nations.
• Financial market volatility has increased, and the rupee has depreciated but remains stronger than other emerging market currencies.
• A weaker rupee may lead to higher import costs, affecting inflation and economic stability.

Role of Monetary and Fiscal Policy

• Another rate cut may help in boosting urban consumption and reducing EMIs, benefiting households.
• The Union Budget 2025 provided ₹1 trillion in tax cuts, which may improve consumption but not significantly raise inflation.
• The fiscal deficit is projected to narrow to 4.4% of GDP in 2025-26, indicating controlled government spending.

Future Economic Outlook

• India’s growth potential is around 6.5-7%, lower than the 8% target in the Economic Survey.
• The government’s capital expenditure (capex) is set to grow by 10.1%, but further expansion may be constrained by fiscal limitations.
• The RBI’s exchange rate policy focuses on managing volatility rather than targeting specific rupee levels.

Quantitative Monetary Policy Tools: These tools control the total money supply and liquidity in the economy.

• Open Market Operations (OMOs): Buying/selling government securities to regulate money supply.
• Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR): Percentage of deposits banks must keep with the central bank.
• Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR): Percentage of deposits banks must keep in liquid assets.
• Repo and Reverse Repo Rates: Rates at which central bank lends to/borrows from commercial banks.

Qualitative Monetary Policy Tools: These tools influence the direction and quality of credit.

• Credit Rationing: Limiting credit to specific sectors.
• Moral Suasion: Persuading banks to follow policy guidelines.
• Direct Action: Taking measures against non-compliant banks.
• Selective Credit Control (SCC): Restricting credit flow to certain sectors.

Conclusion

The RBI’s rate cut is a cautious step to balance growth and inflation amid global uncertainties. While it may support consumption, fiscal challenges and external risks will shape India’s economic trajectory in the coming months.

TROPEX-25: INDIAN NAVY’S MAJOR OPERATIONAL EXERCISE

TOPIC: (GS3) INTERNAL SEQURITY: THE HINDU

The Indian Navy is conducting its biennial Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise (TROPEX-25) in the Indian Ocean Region. This large-scale exercise involves naval, air, and land forces to test and improve maritime defence strategies.

Key Highlights of TROPEX-25

• TROPEX (Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise) is a large-scale naval exercise conducted every two years.
• The 2025 edition features 65 naval ships, 9 submarines, and over 80 aircraft operating in complex maritime scenarios.
• The exercise focuses on refining operational strategies, coordination, and combat readiness of the Indian Navy.

Objectives of TROPEX-25

• Enhancing Warfighting Skills: Tests the Navy’s preparedness in modern warfare techniques.
• Inter-Service Coordination: Involves assets from the Indian Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard to ensure integrated defence operations.
• Maritime Security Readiness: Aims to strengthen India’s defence capabilities against conventional and non-conventional threats.
• Operational Strategy Validation: Evaluates the effectiveness of naval tactics, decision-making, and response mechanisms.

Significance of the Exercise

• Safeguarding National Maritime Interests: Ensures India’s security in the Indian Ocean Region, a strategically vital area.
• Adapting to Evolving Threats: Prepares the Navy to handle conventional, asymmetric, and hybrid threats.
• Enhancing Deterrence: Demonstrates India’s military strength and operational readiness to adversaries.
• Strengthening Joint Operations: Improves coordination between different defence branches for real-world conflict scenarios.

Conclusion

TROPEX-25 is a crucial exercise to assess and improve the Indian Navy’s combat capabilities. By simulating high-intensity conflict situations, it enhances India’s maritime defence preparedness.

LORD BUDDHA TRINATION TRISERVICES EXPEDITION

TOPIC: (GS1) CULTURE: THE HINDU

A special motorcycle expedition from Lumbini, Nepal, to Galle, Sri Lanka, will be organized to honour Buddhist heritage. This journey, involving the armed forces of India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, highlights cultural ties and promotes peace.

Key Highlights

• Organized by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in collaboration with the defence forces of the three countries.
• Starts from Lumbini, Nepal (the birthplace of Lord Buddha) and ends in Galle, Sri Lanka.
• Former Indian President Shri Ram Nath Kovind will flag off the expedition from Bodhgaya on 19th February 2025.
• The Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ms. Harini Amarasuriya will conclude the journey in Jaffna on 5th March 2025.

Objectives of the Expedition

• Promote Peace and Harmony: Spreading Buddhist values of compassion and unity.
• Enhance Tourism: Showcasing Buddhist heritage sites across South Asia.
• Raise Environmental Awareness: Promoting sustainable travel practices.
• Strengthen Cultural Bonds: Celebrating shared Buddhist traditions among India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

Significance

• Covers major Buddhist sites like Sarnath, Bodhgaya, Nalanda, Nagarjuna Sagar, and Udaygiri.
• Highlights the historical spread of Buddhism across South Asia.
• Encourages regional cooperation and friendship among participating nations.

Conclusion

The expedition is a historic initiative promoting Buddhist heritage, regional unity, and sustainable tourism while reinforcing the cultural ties between India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.