02-August-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

STATES CAN SUB-CLASSIFY SCS FOR QUOTAS: SUPREME COURT RULING

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU

In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India ruled that states have the authority to sub-classify Scheduled Castes (SCs) to provide more targeted affirmative action in public employment and education. This ruling aims to address the diverse degrees of backwardness within the SC community.

Rationale for Sub-Classification:

• Scheduled Castes are not a uniform group but consist of various castes, races, or tribes with differing levels of social and economic backwardness.
• States can sub-classify SCs if there is a rational basis for differentiation and if it serves the purpose of addressing inter-group disparities.

Legal Basis:

• The power to sub-classify is derived from Articles 15(4) and 16(4) of the Constitution, which permit special provisions for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes.

Empirical Data Requirement:

• States must provide quantifiable data to justify the need for more preferential treatment for certain sub-groups within the SC community.

Creamy Layer Principle:

• The majority opinion suggested extending the creamy layer principle to SCs and STs, similar to its application in the Other Backward Classes (OBCs) category, to ensure that benefits reach the most disadvantaged.

INDRA SAWHNEY & OTHERS VS UNION OF INDIA, 1992: The Supreme Court, in the landmark Indra Sawhney case of 1992, upheld a 27% reservation for backward classes but invalidated a government order allocating 10% reservation for economically backward individuals from higher castes. Reservation Cap: The court established that the total reservation beneficiaries should not exceed 50% of the population. Creamy Layer Concept: ·       Introduced the ‘creamy layer’ principle, excluding the more affluent individuals within backward classes from reservations. ·       Specified that reservations should apply only to initial appointments, not promotions. State Breaches: ·       Despite the Supreme Court’s ruling, several states, including Maharashtra, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, have laws exceeding the 50% reservation cap. ·       The Tamil Nadu Reservation Act, 1993, mandates 69% reservation in state jobs and educational institutions. ·       In January 2000, the Governor of Andhra Pradesh’s decision to reserve 100% of school teacher posts in Scheduled Areas for Scheduled Tribes was ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. ·       The Maharashtra SEBC Act, 2018, which allocates 12-13% quota for the Maratha community, pushes the state’s reservation percentage beyond 50%. States’ Concerns: ·       States like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka argue that the 50% ceiling set by the Indra Sawhney judgment is not immutable and requires reassessment given the changed circumstances since 1992. ·       The Constitution (One Hundred and Second Amendment) Act, 2018, which established the National Commission for Backward Classes, has been contested for allegedly infringing on the states’ power to determine SEBCs. ·       The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment clarified that Parliament has the authority to identify SEBCs for the central list, while states can maintain their own lists for state-level reservations.

Conclusion:

The Supreme Court’s decision underscores the importance of achieving substantive equality within the SC community. By allowing sub-classification, states can better address the specific needs of the most disadvantaged sub-groups, promoting fairer and more effective affirmative action policies.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Which commission was set up by the Centre to classify OBC people?
2. Kalelkar Commission
3. Mandal Commission
4. Sachar Committee
5. National Commission for Backward Classes

Answer: B

A VERDICT ON THE MONEY BILL THAT INDIA AWAITS

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU

A seven-judge Bench of the Supreme Court of India is set to deliberate on the boundaries of what constitutes a Money Bill. The verdict will have significant implications on legislation passed without Rajya Sabha’s approval, potentially affecting India’s federal structure and constitutional balance of power.

Background and Importance:

• Supreme Court Hearing: The Court will examine critical questions on the definition and limits of a Money Bill.
• Federal Implications: The decision will impact India’s federal structure and legislative procedures.

Case Origin:

• Rojer Mathew Case: The Finance Act, 2017, altered the functioning of 26 tribunals, challenged as a Money Bill.
• Petitioners’ Argument: The extensive changes made by the Act did not meet Money Bill criteria.

Constitutional Provisions:

• Article 109: Allows Money Bills to be enacted with only Lok Sabha’s approval.
• Article 110(1): Defines Money Bills and limits their scope to specific subjects like taxation and appropriation of funds.

Judicial Precedents:

• Puttaswamy Case: Earlier ruling failed to clearly define standards for Money Bills, leading to ambiguities.
• Misuse of Money Bills: Instances where legislation extended beyond the defined scope, bypassing Rajya Sabha.

Recent Examples:

• Finance Act, 2019: Amended the Prevention of Money Laundering Act through a Money Bill, bypassing Rajya Sabha.
• Supreme Court Review: Upheld amendments but left open the question of their validity as a Money Bill.

Upper House’s Role:

• Federal Balance: The Rajya Sabha acts as a crucial check, reflecting India’s pluralism.
• Judicial Oversight: Immunizing Speaker’s certification from judicial review undermines the federal structure.

Conclusion:

The upcoming Supreme Court verdict on the Money Bill’s scope is crucial for maintaining legislative checks and balances. It aims to safeguard the Rajya Sabha’s role in India’s federal system, ensuring the Constitution’s integrity and democratic principles are upheld.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Regarding Finance Bill and Money Bill in the Indian Parliament, consider the following statements:
2. When the Lok Sabha transmits the Finance Bill to the Rajya Sabha, it can amend or reject the Bill.
3. The Rajya Sabha can recommend amendments to the Finance Bill, but the Lok Sabha is not bound to accept them.
4. The President of India can withhold assent to a Money Bill.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 2 only
4. None

ANSWER: C

EXPLANATION:

The Rajya Sabha cannot amend or reject a Money Bill. It can only recommend amendments, which the Lok Sabha can either accept or reject.

The Rajya Sabha can indeed recommend amendments to the Finance Bill, but the Lok Sabha is not obligated to accept them.

The President cannot withhold assent to a Money Bill. Once the Bill is passed by both Houses (with the Rajya Sabha’s recommendations incorporated if accepted by the Lok Sabha), the President must give assent

THE RELEVANCE OF PUMPED STORAGE PROJECTS

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

Pumped storage projects play a critical role in managing the variable and intermittent nature of renewable energy sources like wind and solar. The Union Budget for 2024-25 emphasized the need for policies to promote these projects, ensuring the smooth integration of renewable energy into the power grid.

Importance of Pumped Storage:

• Renewable Energy Goals: India aims to achieve 500GW of non-fossil fuel energy by 2030. Pumped storage helps balance the variability of renewables.
• Energy Storage: It acts as a large-scale natural battery, storing surplus energy and releasing it when needed.

Types of Pumped Storage:

• On-River Projects: Similar to traditional hydroelectric projects, using river water.
• Off-River Projects: Use two reservoirs at different elevations. Water is pumped from the lower to the upper reservoir during surplus power and released to generate power during high demand.

Examples of Pumped Storage in India:

• Existing Projects: Nagarjuna Sagar, Kadana, Kadamparai, Panchet, and Bhira.
• Leading Example: Kadamparai in Tamil Nadu, which has been operational for 37 years with four 100MW units.

Operation of Kadamparai Plant:

• Reservoirs: The upper reservoir is 380m above the lower reservoir.
• Dual Functionality: Units function as both turbine generators and pumps.
• Daily Cycle: Surplus solar power at noon is used to pump water up, while in the evening, the plant generates power to meet peak demand.
• Efficiency: Pumping consumes 20% more power than generating but uses surplus solar energy.

Advantages of Pumped Storage:

• Grid Stability: Provides a stable power supply by balancing renewable energy fluctuations.
• Quick Response: Hydro power can be ramped up or down quickly compared to coal or nuclear.
• Renewable Integration: Supports the integration of increasing renewable energy capacity.

Challenges:

• Initial Costs: High initial investment for infrastructure.
• Environmental Impact: Potential ecological impact on local water bodies and ecosystems.
• Operational Efficiency: Requires precise forecasting and planning to maximize efficiency.

Conclusion:

Pumped storage projects are vital for India’s renewable energy ambitions, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply. Despite challenges, their advantages in balancing the grid and integrating renewable sources make them a crucial component of India’s energy strategy. As renewable energy capacity grows, expanding pumped storage projects will be essential for meeting future energy demands.

STATES CAN DIRECTLY BUY RICE FROM FCI, SAYS FOOD MINISTER

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

The Union Food and Consumer Affairs Ministry has introduced new measures to facilitate the procurement of rice by State governments and to enhance the price monitoring system for essential commodities.

Key Announcements:

• Direct Rice Purchase: States can now directly buy rice from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) under the Open Market Sale Scheme (Domestic) without e-auction.
• Pricing: States can procure additional rice at ₹2,800 per quintal, reduced from ₹2,900 per quintal, excluding transportation costs.
• PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY): The Centre will continue providing free food grains to 81.35 crore beneficiaries until January 2029, with a financial outlay of ₹11.8 lakh crore.

Price Monitoring:

• Vegetable Prices: Seasonal fluctuations in vegetable prices were acknowledged, with subsidized tomatoes available at ₹60 per kg.
• PMS App Update: The Price Monitoring System app now tracks prices of 38 commodities, adding 16 new items such as bajra, jowar, ragi, suji, maida, and others.

Food Corporation of India (FCI) and Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) Food Corporation of India (FCI) Establishment: ·       Set up in 1965 under the Food Corporations Act, 1964. ·       Created to address grain shortages, especially wheat. ·       A Public Sector Undertaking under the Department of Food & Public Distribution, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. Primary Duties: ·       Purchase, store, transport, distribute, and sell food grains and other foodstuffs. Organizational Structure: ·       Headquarters: New Delhi. ·       Zonal Offices: 5. ·       Regional Offices: 25. ·       District Offices: 170. Objectives: ·       Provide remunerative prices to farmers. ·       Transform food security from crisis management to a stable system ensuring availability, accessibility, and affordability of food. ·       Maintain satisfactory levels of operational buffer stocks. ·       Distribute food grains through the Public Distribution System. ·       Execute price support operations to protect farmers’ interests. Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) Establishment: ·       Created in January 1965 (formerly known as Agricultural Prices Commission). ·       Attached office of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Mandate: ·       Recommend Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) to incentivize modern agricultural practices and enhance productivity. ·       MSPs are set annually by the government based on CACP’s recommendations. Coverage: ·       Commodities: Recommends MSPs for 23 commodities. ·       Categories: ·       Cereals: 7 (e.g., paddy, wheat, maize). ·       Pulses: 5 (e.g., gram, tur). ·       Oilseeds: 7 (e.g., groundnut, soybean). ·       Commercial Crops: 4 (e.g., sugarcane, cotton).

Conclusion:

These initiatives aim to manage surplus rice stocks, support State procurement, and ensure better monitoring of essential commodity prices.

‘INDIA’S PER CAPITA INCOME TO HIT A QUARTER OF U.S. LEVELS IN 75 YEARS’

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

The World Bank has highlighted the long-term challenges India faces in achieving high-income status, predicting a lengthy period before reaching a quarter of U.S. per capita income levels.

Key Insights:

• Per Capita Income Projection: India, despite its fast economic growth, may take 75 years to reach a quarter of U.S. per capita income if current trends persist.
• Middle Income Trap: India, along with China and 100 other countries, risks falling into the “middle income trap” where growth stagnates after reaching a certain income level.
• Comparison with Korea: Transitioning from a middle-income to a high-income economy is a significant challenge, with the World Bank suggesting it would be a “miracle” to replicate Korea’s rapid transition.

Challenges and Recommendations:

• Outdated Policies: Many middle-income countries rely on outdated policies aimed at expanding investment, likened to driving in first gear.
• Global Comparisons: China may take over 10 years, Indonesia 70 years, and India 75 years to reach one-quarter of U.S. income per capita.
• Economic and Social Obstacles: Aging populations and environmental concerns pose additional hurdles.
• Need for New Strategies: A fresh approach is necessary to avoid the middle-income trap and achieve sustained economic growth.

PER CAPITA INCOME Per capita income (PCI) measures the average income earned per person in a specific area (city, region, country) within a given year. It is determined by dividing the total income of the area by its total population. Key Points: Purpose: PCI is used to compare and assess the economic situations of countries with different population sizes. Calculation: ·       PCI = Total National Income / Total Population ·       Includes the entire population: men, women, children, and babies. ·       Comprehensive Measure: The calculation takes into account every individual in the specified geographical region, ensuring a comprehensive measure of average income. National Income Calculation Methods: ·       Product Method: This approach involves calculating the National Income by assessing the monetary value of all goods and services produced across the three economic sectors: primary, secondary, and tertiary. ·       Income Method: In this method, National Income is derived by summing up the total income generated by individuals and companies before taxation. ·       Expenditure Method: This method calculates National Income using the formula C + I + G + (X – M), where C stands for consumer spending, I represents investments, G denotes government spending, X is exports, and M is imports. Institutions Involved: ·       The Central Statistical Organization (CSO) is primarily responsible for calculating India’s Per Capita Income. ·       Additionally, institutions like the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) also release their estimates. International organizations such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank periodically publish this data for various countries, including India.

Conclusion:

The World Bank’s report underscores the need for innovative policies and strategies to ensure India and other middle-income countries can achieve high-income status and sustainable economic progress.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding per capita income?
2. Per capita income is calculated by dividing the total income of a country by its total population.
3. It is a good indicator of the overall economic health of a country but does not account for income inequality.
4. An increase in per capita income always indicates an improvement in the standard of living of the population.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

ANSWER: B

EXPLANATION:

Per capita income is indeed calculated by dividing the total income of a country by its total population.

While per capita income is a useful measure of economic health, it does not account for income inequality, meaning it does not reflect how evenly income is distributed among the population.

An increase in per capita income does not always indicate an improvement in the standard of living. It might not reflect issues like income inequality or cost of living changes.

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS: THE PSYCHOLOGICAL PRESSURES OF UPSC PREPARATION

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU
UPSC preparation is known for its rigorous demands, which can severely impact aspirants’ mental health. Reports indicate widespread issues such as stress, loneliness, and fear of underperformance among students.

Prevalence of Psychological Issues

• Loneliness and Stress: 60% of aspirants report feelings of loneliness, and 70% experience stress and fear of underperformance.
• Mental Health Impact: Over half of students report increased nervousness, frustration, loneliness, fear, and sadness since beginning their preparation.

Reasons for Overwhelming Pressure

• Academic Rigour: The vast syllabus requires 10-12 hours of study daily, impacting sleep and social life. Keeping up with current events adds to the stress.
• Economic Pressures: Many aspirants come from low-income backgrounds, with significant financial investments in coaching and living expenses. Around 43% spend ₹1-2 lakh annually on coaching.
• Family and Peer Pressure: One-third experience peer pressure, while 24% face family pressure. Aspirants from low-income families often have stronger aspirations for financial stability.

Coping Mechanisms

• Healthy Strategies: 38% watch web series, TV, or listen to music to de-stress, while 30% engage in physical exercise or meditation.
• Unhealthy Strategies: Some students resort to studying more, smoking, or drinking alcohol under stress.
• Professional Help: 19% felt the need for therapy, but only 6% sought it due to affordability, stigma, or lack of access.

Overall Mental Health

• Improvement: 40% of students report improved mental health due to personal growth and support from peers.
• Worsening Condition: 30% experienced a decline in mental health, and 20% noted no change.

Conclusion

The psychological toll of UPSC preparation is significant. Addressing mental health challenges through effective coping mechanisms, strong support systems, and professional help is crucial to ensure aspirants are both academically and mentally prepared.

CONTESTED HARVEST: THE DEBATE ON GM CROPS IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

India’s debate on genetically modified (GM) crops continues, with a recent Supreme Court split verdict on the approval of GM mustard (DMH-11). Currently, only GM cotton is permitted in India, despite advancements in other crops.

Background

• Current Status: The only GM crop approved in India is cotton. Other GM seeds, including rice, wheat, tomato, brinjal, and mustard, have not been released.
• DMH-11 Development: DMH-11, a GM mustard developed by Delhi University, passed trials over three years and was approved by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) in October 2022, subject to further tests.

Court Case and Verdict

• Judicial Split: The Supreme Court’s two-judge Bench delivered a split verdict:
• Justice Nagarathna: Criticized the GEAC for violating the ‘precautionary principle’, arguing that new GM crops should be carefully scrutinized before approval.
• Justice Karol: Was satisfied with the approval process, supporting the GEAC’s decision.
• Next Steps: The case will be reviewed by a larger Bench led by the Chief Justice of India.

Controversies and Concerns

• Environmental Concerns: Environmentalists claim DMH-11 is ‘herbicide tolerant’, potentially forcing farmers to use specific pesticides, which could harm the environment. They argue that developers were not transparent about these implications.
• Legal and Ideological Debate: The dispute is not only about agricultural efficiency but also ideological, reflecting concerns about past agricultural practices like hybrid seeds and synthetic fertilizers, which have caused environmental issues.

Policy and Future Directions

• Court Order: The Court has directed the Centre to develop a policy on GM crops.
• Balancing Act: The decision must balance the benefits of GM crops with environmental and health considerations, acknowledging that perfection in agriculture is not always attainable.

Conclusion

The debate on GM crops in India underscores the tension between technological advancement and environmental stewardship. As the legal process continues, the focus remains on ensuring that the adoption of GM technology is handled responsibly.

PARKINSON’S DISEASE

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that impacts the nervous system and body parts controlled by nerves.

• It leads to difficulties in movement and balance control.
• The risk of developing Parkinson’s increases with age, typically starting around 60 years old.
• Men are more likely to develop Parkinson’s than women.

Causes:

• Caused by the degeneration of nerve cells in the substantia nigra, a part of the brain that controls movement.
• These nerve cells die or become impaired, losing their ability to produce dopamine.
• Dopamine is a critical chemical that helps coordinate movement by working with other neurotransmitters.
• Lack of dopamine results in slowed movements and tremors.

Symptoms:

• Symptoms vary among individuals and can start mildly.
• Often begin on one side of the body and remain worse on that side.
• Common symptoms include:

• Tremors (shaking) in hands, arms, legs, and jaw.
• Rigidity (stiffness) of limbs.
• Slowness of movement.
• Impaired balance and coordination.

• Additional symptoms may include:

• Difficulty swallowing, chewing, and speaking.
• Urinary problems, constipation, skin issues.
• Depression, emotional changes, and sleep disturbances.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

• There are currently no blood or radiological tests to diagnose Parkinson’s disease.
• While there is no cure, treatments can significantly improve symptoms.
• Treatment options include medications, lifestyle changes, and supportive therapies.