02-September-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

EDUCATION CHALLENGES FOR DONGRIA KONDH TRIBAL CHILDREN IN ODISHA

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN SOCIETY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

The Dongria Kondh tribe in Odisha’s Rayagada district faces significant barriers to education due to their remote living conditions and cultural challenges. Despite various government interventions, many tribal children still lack access to formal education.

Key Points

Remote Living Conditions:

• The Dongria Kondh community lives in hilly and forested areas, making access to schools difficult.
• Amin Kadraka, a 14-year-old from Lahunikhunti village, struggles with literacy despite being familiar with digital technology like smartphones.

Lack of Formal Education:

• Villages in the Niyamgiri hill range, where many Dongria Kondhs live, have minimal access to formal education.
• There are only 44 high schools in the district, many of which are far from tribal areas.

Challenges in School Enrollment:

• Children like Amin face obstacles such as dangerous paths and a lack of encouragement for schooling.
• Parents in remote villages are often reluctant to send their children to distant schools or boarding facilities due to poor conditions and lack of warmth.

Historical and Cultural Barriers:

• The Dongria Kondhs have a history of resisting external interventions, such as the proposed bauxite mining by Vedanta Group.
• This resistance reflects their strong attachment to their land and traditional way of life, affecting their openness to formal education.

Dongria Kondh and Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)

Dongria KondhLocation: The Dongria Kondh tribe resides in the Niyamgiri hills in the Rayagada and Kalahandi districts of south-west Odisha, India.Lifestyle: They live off the resources of the Niyamgiri forests, practicing horticulture and shifting cultivation.Their primary language is Kui, which is spoken but does not have a written script.Niyamgiri Hills: Niyamgiri is a prominent hill range with its highest point known as Niyam Dongar.Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)

• Definition: PVTGs are a category of Scheduled Tribes that face more severe vulnerabilities compared to regular Scheduled Tribes.
• History: The concept was introduced by the Dhebar Commission (1960-1961) to address disparities in development among different tribal groups.
• The term “Primitive Tribal Groups” was used in the Fourth Five-Year Plan (1973), later renamed to PVTGs in 2006.

Characteristics:

• Preservation of pre-agricultural practices.
• Reliance on hunting, gathering, and shifting cultivation.
• Decreasing or stagnant population growth.
• Low literacy levels compared to other tribal groups.

Distribution:

• There are 75 identified PVTGs across 18 states and 1 Union Territory in India.
• Odisha has the highest number of PVTGs, totalling 13.

Low Literacy Rates:

• Despite the presence of development programs like the Dongria Kondh Development Agency, literacy rates remain low. The 2019 survey showed a literacy rate of just 7.4% among the Dongria Kondhs.

Dropout Rates and Government Initiatives:

• Dropout rates among tribal children are high, with over 30% leaving school before completion.
• The Odisha government has introduced the ‘Madho Singh Haath Kharcha’ scheme to provide ₹5,000 annually to tribal students who advance to higher classes, aiming to reduce dropout rates.

Community and Educational Support:

• There is a need for more community engagement and flexible educational methods tailored to tribal children’s needs.
• Voluntary organizations play a crucial role in bridging the gap between formal schooling and tribal communities.
• The situation highlights the need for targeted strategies to improve education access and retention for tribal children in Odisha.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India:
2. PVTGs are a subset of Scheduled Tribes identified for their specific socio-economic and cultural vulnerabilities.
3. The criteria for a tribe to be classified as a PVTG include low population density, economic backwardness, and isolation from mainstream society.
4. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs is responsible for implementing the development programs specifically for PVTGs.
5. PVTGs are eligible for special benefits under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

ANSWER – B

EXPLANATION:

PVTGs are indeed a subset of Scheduled Tribes identified based on their unique socio-economic challenges.

Criteria for PVTG classification include low population density, economic backwardness, and isolation.

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs implements development programs for PVTGs.

PVTGs are not specifically covered under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, which primarily addresses issues of discrimination and violence against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

ARE LIE-DETECTOR TESTS LEGALLY VALID?

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

Lie-detector tests, also known as deception detection tests, are used to identify potential deception during interrogations. They include polygraph tests, narco-analysis, and brain mapping. These tests are controversial and raise legal and ethical issues regarding their effectiveness and the rights of individuals undergoing them.

Types of Deception Detection Tests

Polygraph Tests:

• Measures physiological responses such as blood pressure, heart rate, and skin conductivity.
• Assumes that lying causes unique physiological changes.
• Equipment includes cardio-cuffs and electrodes attached to the body.

Narco-Analysis:

• Involves administering sodium pentothal, a drug that induces a semi-sleep state.
• Assumes that people under this influence are less likely to lie.
• Known as a “truth serum” but raises concerns about the accuracy of the information obtained.

Brain Mapping:

• Uses electrodes to monitor brainwaves in response to various stimuli.
• Aims to identify specific brain patterns associated with deception.

Concerns About Efficacy

Scientific Criticisms:

• Critics argue that physiological changes measured by polygraphs (e.g., heart rate) are not exclusive to lying.
• High false-positive rates have been reported, where innocent people are mistakenly identified as deceptive.
• Training and countermeasures can reduce the accuracy of polygraphs.

Legal and Ethical Issues:

• The Supreme Court of India, in 2010 (Selvi vs. State of Karnataka), ruled that lie-detector tests cannot be conducted without the consent of the accused.
• The Court highlighted that results from these tests cannot be used as confessions but can be used to guide investigations if corroborated by other evidence.
• Concerns about torture and coercion during such tests have been noted, leading to calls for strict adherence to human rights standards.

Judicial Precedents

Pre-2010:

• Indian courts previously supported the use of these tests for investigations, emphasizing their potential benefits over custodial violence.

Post-2010:

• The Supreme Court emphasized that forced tests violate constitutional rights under Article 20(3) and Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.
• Tests must be conducted with informed consent and under strict legal guidelines.

Current Situation

• Despite legal restrictions, lie-detector tests remain in use in India. The debate continues on their effectiveness and ethical implications, with experts and human rights advocates raising significant concerns.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Article 21 of the Indian Constitution and the use of lie-detection tests in criminal investigations?
2. Article 21 guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, which includes protection against self-incrimination.
3. The Supreme Court of India has ruled that lie-detection tests can be administered without the consent of the accused if it is deemed necessary for the investigation.
4. Polygraph tests measure physiological responses such as blood pressure and skin conductivity to determine deception.
5. Narco-analysis involves administering a drug to induce a hypnotic state, with the expectation that the subject will provide truthful information.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

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

ANSWER: B

EXPLANATION:

Article 21: This article guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, which includes protection against self-incrimination. It ensures that no person can be compelled to testify against themselves, aligning with the principle that individuals cannot be forced to reveal incriminating evidence.

Supreme Court Ruling: The Supreme Court of India has ruled that lie-detection tests, including polygraph tests, cannot be administered without the accused’s consent. This ruling upholds the right against self-incrimination and personal liberty as guaranteed by Article 21.

Polygraph Tests: These tests measure physiological responses, such as blood pressure and skin conductivity, to determine if an individual is being deceptive.

Narco-Analysis: This test involves administering a drug that induces a semi-sleep state to the subject, with the expectation that they will be less inhibited and more likely to provide truthful information.

REFORMING THE PROCESS OF JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS

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

The process of judicial appointments in India has been a topic of debate due to concerns about efficiency, transparency, and the independence of the judiciary. The challenge is to balance these aspects while ensuring timely justice.

Current System: Collegium vs. NJAC:

• Collegium System: Currently, the collegium system is used for judicial appointments. It involves the Chief Justice of India and senior Supreme Court judges recommending judges.
• Critics argue it lacks transparency, is prone to nepotism, and results in delays due to conflicts between the executive and judiciary.
• National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC): The NJAC Act (2014) aimed to replace the collegium system. It proposed a body with the Chief Justice, Law Minister, two eminent persons, and two senior judges to recommend appointments.
• However, the Supreme Court declared NJAC unconstitutional, citing concerns over judicial independence and the potential for government interference.

International Models:

• United Kingdom: The UK uses a Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) comprising a mix of judicial members, professional members, and lay members. This system aims to ensure diverse input in selecting judges.
• South Africa: The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) advises the President on appointments. It includes various legal professionals and members from the National Assembly.
• France: Judges are selected through the High Council of the Judiciary or, in lower courts, by the Minister of Justice, with input from the High Council.

Reworking NJAC:

• Potential Benefits: NJAC could provide a more democratic and efficient process if reformed. It could reduce delays and improve communication between the executive and judiciary.
• Need for Reform: To address concerns, NJAC should be reformed with input from all stakeholders to ensure it balances judicial independence with accountability.
• Conclusion: Reforming the judicial appointment process is crucial for improving efficiency and maintaining public confidence. A balanced approach that incorporates lessons from other countries while addressing concerns about independence and transparency is needed.

DOCTRINE OF SEPARATION OF POWERS AND INSTRUMENTS OF CHECKS & BALANCES

Doctrine of Separation of Powers:

The doctrine of separation of powers divides the government into three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. Each branch has distinct functions and responsibilities.

• It Prevents the concentration of power in one branch and ensures that each branch operates within its limits.
• Article 50: States are required to separate the Judiciary from the Executive to maintain judicial independence.
• Indian Constitution: Provides a framework that defines the roles, functions, and interactions between the branches of government, establishing checks and balances to prevent abuse of power.

Instruments of Checks & Balances:Legislature Control:On Judiciary:

• Impeachment: The legislature has the power to impeach and remove judges for misconduct.
• Law Amendments: Can amend laws declared unconstitutional (ultra vires) by the judiciary and revalidate them.

On Executive:

• No-Confidence Vote: The legislature can dissolve the government through a no-confidence vote.
• Question Hour and Zero Hour: The legislature can scrutinize the executive’s work and policies.

Executive Control:

• On Judiciary: Appointments: The executive appoints the Chief Justice and other judges of the judiciary.
• On Legislature: Delegated Legislation: The executive can enact rules and regulations under delegated powers.
• Procedural Rules: Can make rules for regulating the procedure and conduct of the legislature’s business, subject to constitutional provisions.

Judicial Control:On Executive: Judicial Review: The judiciary can review executive actions to ensure they comply with the Constitution.On Legislature: Basic Structure Doctrine: Under the Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973), the judiciary can declare constitutional amendments that violate the basic structure of the Constitution as invalid.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Collegium System and the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) in India?
2. The Collegium System was introduced by the 99th Constitutional Amendment Act of 2014.
3. The National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 2015.
4. The NJAC was designed to include members from the executive branch to enhance transparency in the judicial appointment process.
5. The Collegium System allows for the involvement of politicians in the appointment of judges.

Options:

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

ANSWER: B

EXPLANATION

The Collegium System was not introduced by the 99th Constitutional Amendment Act. It developed through Supreme Court rulings, starting in 1993. The 99th Amendment and NJAC Act aimed to replace the Collegium System but were ruled unconstitutional in 2015.

The NJAC was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 2015. The Court found that it threatened the independence of the judiciary.

The NJAC included the Chief Justice of India, two senior judges, the Law Minister, and two eminent persons. This was meant to make the appointment process more transparent.

The Collegium System does not include politicians in the appointment process. It involves only senior judges who recommend appointments to ensure judicial independence.

RECORD SURGE IN UNDOCUMENTED INDIAN CROSSINGS FROM CANADA TO THE US RAISES CONCERNS OVER VISA POLICIES AND BORDER SECURITY

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

Recent developments have seen a significant increase in the number of undocumented Indian nationals crossing the border from Canada into the United States.This surge is largely attributed to the relatively easier Canadian visa process and the less stringent border controls compared to the US-Mexico border.

The situation has raised concerns among US and UK authorities regarding visa policies and border security.

Key Points:

Migration and Undocumented Crossings:

• Migration involves the movement of individuals from one region to another, either permanently or temporarily.
• There has been a notable rise in the number of undocumented Indians entering the US from Canada, surpassing those crossing from Mexico.
• In June 2024, 5,152 Indian nationals reportedly crossed the border from Canada to the US on foot.

Canada’s Visa Policies Under Scrutiny:

• The surge in crossings has prompted scrutiny of Canada’s visa screening process, especially for Indian nationals.
• The US and UK have expressed concerns, urging Canada to implement stricter visa checks and consider introducing transit visas for Indian passengers stopping over in the UK.
• The relatively easy Canadian visa process is seen as a contributing factor to this trend.

Increase in Asylum Claims:

• Alongside the rise in crossings, there has been an increase in asylum claims by Indian nationals in both Canada and the UK.
• The UK has seen a spike in asylum applications due to a loophole allowing Indian travelers to transit without a visa.
• Asylum success rates for Indians remain low, with less than 10% of applications being approved in the UK.

Policy and Security Implications:

• The increase in undocumented crossings and asylum claims has led to calls for enhanced border security and stricter immigration controls.
• The situation highlights the complexities and unintended consequences of visa leniencies, which may contribute to illegal migration and pressure on border enforcement agencies.

Contributing Factors

• Religious and Political Pressures: Increased persecution of non-Hindus and limited economic opportunities in India drive migration.
• Regional Backgrounds: Migrants often come from affluent areas like Punjab, Haryana, and Gujarat, using diaspora networks to settle in the US or UK.
• Demographics: Young, financially stable but not highly educated individuals, willing to take risks, often travel via Canada when UK visas are unlikely.

DIVERGING CHALLENGES IN INDIA’S CEREAL PRODUCTION: WHEAT AND RICE

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

India’s cereal landscape faces contrasting challenges: rice is dealing with a surplus, while wheat is grappling with production constraints.These distinct issues require separate and targeted policy approaches to ensure food security and economic stability.

Rice: Surplus Issue

• Export Trends: India has been consistently increasing its rice exports, with notable figures of 21.21 million tonnes (mt) in 2021-22, 22.35 mt in 2022-23, and 16.36 mt in 2023-24.
• Stock Levels: Despite high export levels, rice stocks in government storage reached a record 45.48 mt by August 1, highlighting a significant surplus.

Policy Recommendations: To manage this surplus, it is suggested to:

• Lift the ban on white non-basmati rice exports.
• Reduce the 20% duty on parboiled non-basmati rice.
• Remove the $950/tonne minimum price on basmati rice exports.

Wheat: Production Challenges

• Export Decline: Wheat exports have drastically dropped, from 7.24 mt in 2021-22 to just 0.19 mt in 2023-24, reflecting production difficulties.
• Stock Levels: As of August 1, central wheat stocks were at a low of 26.81 mt, the lowest in recent years, signaling significant production constraints.
• Geographical and Temporal Constraints: Wheat production is more limited geographically, and is highly sensitive to climate change, causing greater volatility compared to rice.

Consumption Patterns

• Wheat: The consumption of wheat has been rising, driven by the popularity of processed foods such as bread and biscuits, influenced by increasing incomes and urbanization.
• Rice: Rice consumption remains more traditional, with less growth in processed food consumption.

Conclusion:

The differing challenges faced by rice and wheat in India’s cereal production necessitate distinct policy interventions. While  wheat requires strategies to boost production and possibly imports, rice policies should focus on managing the surplus through export incentives.

GOVERNMENT DIRECTIVES TO ENSURE LGBTQIA+ RIGHTS IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: PIB

The Indian government has taken significant steps to ensure that LGBTQIA+ couples receive recognition and access to essential services. These actions follow the Supreme Court’s 2023 judgement on marriage equality, aiming to reduce discrimination and promote social justice for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Recognition and Rights for LGBTQIA+ Couples:

Ration Cards: LGBTQIA+ couples are now recognized as part of the same household for ration card purposes. States and Union Territories have been directed to issue ration cards without discrimination, ensuring that these couples receive their entitlements.

Health Ministry Directives:

• Body Claim Rights: LGBTQIA+ partners can now claim each other’s body in the absence of a next of kin, ensuring dignity and respect in death.
• Intersex Guidelines: New medical guidelines have been introduced for intersex children and those with sexual differentiation disorders. These guidelines focus on ensuring healthy development without unnecessary complications.
• Mental Health: The government is developing specific guidelines to address mental health challenges within the LGBTQIA+ community, promoting well-being and mental healthcare access.

BRIEF HISTORY OF LGBTQIA+ RECOGNITION IN INDIA

LGBTQIA+ Meaning: An acronym representing diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, including Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual.

• Global Recognition: Many countries, including India, have recognized LGBTQIA+ rights after prolonged activism and protests.

India’s Legal Milestones:

• 2018: Supreme Court decriminalized consensual same-sex relationships by partially striking down Section 377.
• 2019: Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act was enacted to safeguard transgender rights.

Key Terms:

• Lesbian: A woman attracted to other women.
• Gay: Individuals attracted to people of the same sex.
• Bisexual: Attraction to more than one gender.
• Transgender: People whose gender identity differs from their assigned sex at birth.
• Queer: An umbrella term for non-heterosexual orientations.
• Intersex: Individuals with sex characteristics outside traditional male/female categories.
• Asexual: People who do not experience sexual attraction.

Overview of LGBTQIA+ Community

• 1861: Section 377 of IPC criminalized homosexual acts.
• 1977: Shakuntala Devi published “The World of Homosexuals.”
• 1994: Transgender individuals granted voting rights as a third gender.
• 2014: Supreme Court recognized transgender people as the third gender.
• 2017: Supreme Court upheld the Right to Privacy, protecting LGBTQIA+ rights.
• 2018: Section 377 partially struck down, decriminalizing consensual homosexual acts.
• 2019: Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act passed for transgender rights.

Social Justice and Legal Measures:

• Interim Measures: These actions are part of interim measures following the Supreme Court’s directions in the October 2023 marriage equality case, reflecting the government’s commitment to reducing discrimination against LGBTQIA+ individuals.
• Committee Formation: A committee, led by the Cabinet Secretary and with a sub-committee under the Home Secretary, was established in April 2024. This committee is focused on addressing discrimination and welfare issues faced by the LGBTQIA+ community.

Additional Measures:

• Prison Visitation: The government has issued advisories to ensure that LGBTQIA+ individuals have their rights recognized in prison, including the right to visitation by their partners.
• Financial Services: LGBTQIA+ couples can now open joint bank accounts and nominate each other as beneficiaries, enhancing their financial security and legal recognition.

Healthcare Rights and Access:

• Advisories: The government has issued advisories to protect LGBTQIA+ rights in healthcare, including raising awareness and banning harmful practices like conversion therapy.
• Access Improvements: The Directorate General of Health Services is working to reduce discrimination in healthcare settings, ensuring better access and treatment for LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Conclusion:

These government directives represent a crucial step toward ensuring equality and dignity for LGBTQIA+ individuals in India.By addressing key areas such as social welfare, healthcare, and legal recognition, these measures aim to create a more inclusive and just society.

NAMIBIA’S WILDLIFE CULLING AMID SEVERE DROUGHT

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: TRIBUNE

Namibia is undertaking a significant wildlife culling operation due to its worst drought in a century. The goal is to address food shortages and prevent wildlife conflicts with human settlements.

About Namibia:

• Location: Southern African country, bordered by South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Angola.
• Geography: Characterized by diverse environments including deserts, marshlands, savannas, mountains, and river valleys.
• Population Density: Second least densely populated country in the world.

Scope of the Culling:

• Targeted Animals: Includes 83 elephants, 30 hippos, and various antelopes, zebras, and buffaloes.
• Current Status: Over 150 animals have been culled, providing approximately 63 tonnes of meat.

Impact of Drought:

• Cause: The drought is intensified by the El Niño weather pattern and climate change.
• Effects: Leads to crop failures, livestock deaths, and severe food shortages affecting over a million people.
• Food Crisis: The drought has created a critical food insecurity situation for Namibians.

Government’s Rationale:

• Resource Management: The Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism views culling as a strategy to manage natural resources and support the population.
• Reducing Pressure: Aims to alleviate grazing pressure and address water scarcity in wildlife habitats.

Ethical Considerations:

• Debate: Culling is not uncommon in southern Africa, but it raises ethical concerns.
• Sustainability: Experts emphasize that if managed sustainably and within legal frameworks, culling can be acceptable.

Conclusion:

Namibia’s wildlife culling reflects the severe impact of drought on both human and wildlife populations. It underscores the need for balanced resource management and highlights ethical considerations in conservation efforts.

PARIS SEEKS UNESCO HERITAGE STATUS FOR ZINC ROOFERS

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: TIMES OF INDIA

Paris is proposing its traditional zinc roofing craft for UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status. This nomination emphasizes the historical and aesthetic value of the craft, aiming to preserve it amidst modern challenges.

Zinc Roofers of Paris:

• Historical Significance: Zinc roofers have been integral to Paris’s skyline for nearly 200 years.
• Coverage: Paris has about 128,000 zinc roofs covering 21.4 million square meters.
• Unique Appearance: Zinc roofs are noted for their distinctive grey color, contributing to the city’s iconic look.
• Craftsmanship: Involves both functional roofing and intricate ornamental work.

Challenges and Adaptations:

• Climate Change: Zinc roofing faces challenges from climate change, necessitating more resilient materials and techniques.
• Modernization: Efforts are being made to adapt traditional practices to contemporary needs while preserving the essence of the craft.

UNESCO Nomination:

• Purpose: The bid for UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status aims to safeguard this traditional craft and recognize its cultural importance.
• Decision Timeline: The outcome of the nomination will be decided in December.

Conclusion:

Paris’s move to secure UNESCO heritage status for its zinc roofers reflects the city’s commitment to preserving its unique architectural heritage. This initiative highlights the need to protect traditional crafts while adapting to modern challenges.