03-October-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

LADAKH’S DEMAND FOR SPECIAL STATUS: SIXTH SCHEDULE INCLUSION

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

Ladakh, after its separation from Jammu and Kashmir and its designation as a Union Territory in 2019, has been pressing for greater autonomy. The main demand is for the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. This demand reflects concerns over preserving Ladakh’s unique cultural heritage and protecting the rights of its indigenous tribal population.

Asymmetrical Federalism in India:

• The Indian Constitution allows certain regions to have more autonomy compared to others, known as ‘asymmetrical federalism.’
• Unlike symmetrical federations (like the U.S. or Australia), where all states enjoy the same powers, some states and regions in India have special provisions for greater self-governance.
• Regions like Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, and Manipur are seeking such special protections to preserve their ethnic identities.

History of the Fifth and Sixth Schedules:

• Tribal populations were largely left untouched by early Muslim rulers, and their way of life was not heavily interfered with.
• British colonial policies in the 19th century began affecting tribal lands, leading to rebellions like the Kol (1831-32), Santhal (1885), and Munda (1899-1900) revolts.
• In response, the British enacted a policy of isolation for tribal areas, resulting in the creation of ‘excluded’ and ‘partially excluded’ areas under the Government of India Act, 1935.
• The Fifth and Sixth Schedules were modeled after these provisions and aimed to protect the interests of tribal populations.

Fifth Schedule:

• The Fifth Schedule applies to ‘Scheduled Areas’ in 10 states with a significant tribal population. These areas are identified by the President.
• Tribal Advisory Councils (TACs) are set up in these areas to advise on tribal welfare.
• The Governor has the authority to regulate land allotment, money-lending, and the applicability of central or state laws in these areas, subject to central government approval.

Sixth Schedule:

• The Sixth Schedule is designed for ‘Tribal Areas’ in the northeastern states of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Tripura.
• These areas have Autonomous District Councils (ADCs), which are granted legislative, executive, and financial powers.
• ADCs can create laws regarding land use, property inheritance, marriage, and social customs. They can also collect taxes and grant licenses for resource extraction.
• The Sixth Schedule offers greater autonomy than the Fifth Schedule, as ADCs manage a wide range of activities, including local governance, healthcare, and education.

Special Provisions for Northeastern States:

• In addition to the Fifth and Sixth Schedules, northeastern states like Nagaland, Mizoram, and Manipur have special constitutional provisions under Articles 371A to 371H.
• These provisions safeguard local customs, laws, and the interests of tribal populations in these states.
• For instance, Nagaland and Mizoram’s local laws cannot be overruled by central legislation without local consent.

Why Ladakh Seeks Sixth Schedule Status:

• Ladakh is home to a significant tribal population, and many of its people fear losing their cultural identity and control over land due to increased tourism and developmental activities.
• Activists like Sonam Wangchuk have been demanding the Sixth Schedule to protect Ladakh’s tribal rights and ensure sustainable development.
• Similar demands have arisen in other parts of the country, such as Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur, where tribal populations seek constitutional safeguards.

Fifth and Sixth Schedules: How They Differ:

• The Fifth Schedule focuses on protection through Tribal Advisory Councils (TAC) and is mainly implemented in central and western India.
• The Sixth Schedule provides more autonomy, with ADCs managing significant administrative and legislative functions in northeastern India.
• In both schedules, Governors play an important role in approving regulations, but in practice, political complexities often limit the autonomy granted to these regions.

Why the British Introduced Special Provisions:

• The British colonial government created ‘excluded’ and ‘partially excluded’ areas under the 1935 Government of India Act to manage tribal regions separately.
• These areas were largely left to be governed by tribal customary laws, with limited intervention from colonial authorities.
• These provisions laid the foundation for the current Fifth and Sixth Schedules, which aim to balance tribal autonomy with integration into mainstream governance.

Future Reforms and Challenges:

Autonomy in Practice:

• While the Fifth and Sixth Schedules offer constitutional protections, their implementation often depends on political alignments between the Centre, States, and ADCs.
• Clearer guidelines are needed to ensure that the autonomy granted on paper translates into real governance powers.

Unnotified Tribal Areas:

• Many tribal areas across India are yet to be notified as ‘Scheduled Areas,’ denying them the protections of the Fifth and Sixth Schedules.
• Efforts should be made to include these areas after careful examination.

125th Constitutional Amendment Bill (2019):

• This bill, currently pending in the Rajya Sabha, seeks to increase the financial and administrative powers of ADCs in northeastern states.
• The bill must be passed promptly to provide better governance in these tribal regions.

Ladakh’s Demand:

• The growing call for Ladakh’s inclusion in the Sixth Schedule, alongside similar demands from other northeastern states, needs to be carefully examined.
• This inclusion will help safeguard tribal rights and allow for more localized governance.

Conclusion:

The demands for autonomy in Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, and other tribal areas highlight the need for stronger constitutional protections for indigenous communities. While the Fifth and Sixth Schedules offer a framework for such protections, there is a need for further reforms to ensure real autonomy and effective governance in these regions. Addressing these concerns promptly will ensure a balance between preserving tribal cultures and integrating them into national development policies.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Consider the following statements:

1. The Fifth Schedule provides for the establishment of Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in Scheduled Areas.
2. The Sixth Schedule areas have more legislative autonomy than the areas under the Fifth Schedule.
3. The President of India has the power to declare an area as a Scheduled Area under the Fifth Schedule.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

1. A) 1 and 2 only
2. B) 2 and 3 only
3. C) 3 only
4. D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B

Explanation:

Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) are a feature of the Sixth Schedule, not the Fifth Schedule.

The Sixth Schedule areas, particularly in northeastern states, have more legislative autonomy through the ADCs.

The President of India has the power to declare areas as Scheduled Areas under the Fifth Schedule.

THE DECLINE OF INDIA’S ELEPHANT POPULATION:

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: INDIAN EXPRESS

India is home to the largest population of Asian elephants in the world. These magnificent creatures play a crucial role in the country’s biodiversity and cultural heritage. However, recent years have witnessed a significant decline in their numbers due to a variety of factors

Factors Contributing to the Decline of Elephant Populations

• Habitat Loss and Fragmentation: The expansion of human settlements, agriculture, and industrial activities has led to the destruction and fragmentation of elephant habitats. This has reduced the availability of food, water, and space for elephants to roam freely.
• Human-Elephant Conflict: As human populations encroach upon elephant habitats, conflicts between humans and elephants have become more frequent. These conflicts can result in injuries and deaths to both humans and elephants.
• Poaching and Illegal Trade: Elephants are hunted for their ivory, which is highly prized in the international market. Poaching has had a devastating impact on elephant populations, particularly in certain regions of India.
• Climate Change: Climate change is altering rainfall patterns and affecting the availability of food and water resources for elephants. This can lead to increased competition for resources and conflict with humans.

Implications for India’s Ecosystems

• The decline of elephant populations has far-reaching implications for India’s ecosystems. Elephants play a vital role in seed dispersal, which helps to maintain the health and diversity of forests. Their activities can also create open areas that provide habitat for other species. The loss of elephants can disrupt the delicate balance of these ecosystems.

Conservation Efforts and Potential Solutions

• Habitat Protection and Restoration: Creating protected areas and restoring degraded habitats are essential for the survival of elephants. This involves implementing effective anti-poaching measures and reducing human encroachment.
• Community Engagement: Engaging local communities in conservation efforts is crucial. This can involve providing alternative livelihoods to reduce dependence on activities that harm elephants, such as poaching and illegal logging.
• Strengthening Law Enforcement: The government needs to strengthen law enforcement efforts to combat poaching and illegal trade in elephant products. This includes increasing the capacity of forest rangers and improving coordination between different agencies.
• Promoting Sustainable Development: Sustainable development practices that minimize the impact on elephant habitats should be promoted. This includes promoting sustainable agriculture, responsible tourism, and infrastructure development that avoids sensitive areas.

Conclusion

The decline of elephant populations in India is a serious threat to the country’s biodiversity and cultural heritage. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach that involves habitat protection, community engagement, law enforcement, and sustainable development. By taking decisive action, India can ensure the survival of its iconic elephant populations for generations to come.

Multiple Choice Question

1. Which of the following statements regarding elephants in India is/are correct?

1. Elephants are classified as a “Schedule I” species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which provides them the highest level of protection.
2. The Asian elephant is the only species of elephant found in India.
3. The Project Elephant initiative was launched in 1992 to protect elephants and their habitats.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

1. A) 1 and 2 only
2. B) 1 and 3 only
3. C) 2 and 3 only
4. D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B

Explanation:

Elephants are indeed classified as a Schedule I species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.India is home to both Asian elephants and African elephants, though the latter are not native to India.

Project Elephant was indeed launched in 1992 to protect elephants and their habitats.

RAILWAY SAFETY IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: THE HINDU

Railways play a vital role in India’s transportation infrastructure, connecting millions of people across the country. However, the safety of rail travel has been a longstanding concern, with numerous accidents occurring over the years. This essay will examine the recent trends in railway accidents in India, analyse the underlying causes, and explore potential solutions to enhance railway safety.

Recent Trends in Railway Accidents

• Frequency of Accidents: Over the past five years, India has witnessed a significant number of railway accidents, with 200 major incidents reported. These accidents have resulted in the tragic loss of 351 lives and injuries to 970 people.
• Regional Variations: The frequency and severity of accidents vary across different railway zones. The South Eastern Railway zone, including the site of the devastating Balasore triple-train tragedy, has experienced the highest number of casualties.
• Compensation Efforts: The Indian Railways has disbursed compensation to the victims of accidents, totalling ₹32 crore over the past five years. However, the amount of compensation received by affected families often falls short of their needs.

Causes of Railway Accidents

• Infrastructure Issues: Aging infrastructure, including outdated tracks, signals, and bridges, can contribute to accidents. Inadequate maintenance and lack of investment in infrastructure upgrades are major contributing factors.
• Human Error: Human error, such as negligence, fatigue, and lack of training, remains a significant cause of railway accidents. This includes errors made by drivers, signal operators, and maintenance personnel.
• Overcrowding and Overloading: Trains often operate beyond their capacity, leading to overcrowding and overloading. This can increase the risk of accidents and make it difficult for passengers to evacuate safely in case of emergencies.
• Lack of Safety Measures: Inadequate safety measures, such as insufficient warning systems, emergency response plans, and passenger safety education, can exacerbate the consequences of accidents.

Measures to Enhance Railway Safety

• Infrastructure Upgrades: Investing in the modernization and maintenance of railway infrastructure is essential to prevent accidents. This includes upgrading tracks, signals, bridges, and tunnels, as well as implementing advanced safety technologies.
• Human Resource Development: Providing adequate training and support to railway staff is crucial. This includes improving the skills of drivers, signal operators, and maintenance personnel, as well as addressing issues such as fatigue and stress.
• Safety Culture: Promoting a strong safety culture within the Indian Railways is essential. This involves encouraging a culture of vigilance, accountability, and continuous improvement in safety practices.
• Passenger Safety Education: Educating passengers about safety procedures and guidelines is vital. This includes teaching passengers how to use emergency exits, follow safety instructions, and report potential hazards.
• Independent Safety Oversight: Establishing an independent safety oversight body to monitor and regulate railway operations can help ensure that safety standards are being met.

Conclusion

Railway safety is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach. By addressing the underlying causes of accidents and implementing effective safety measures, India can significantly improve the safety of rail travel for its millions of passengers.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Which of the following statements about Indian Railways is/are correct?

1. The Indian Railways is the largest railway network in Asia.
2. The first passenger train in India ran between Bombay (Mumbai) and Thane in 1853.
3. Indian Railways operates under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

Indian Railways is the largest railway network in Asia.

The first passenger train in India ran from Bombay (now Mumbai) to Thane on April 16, 1853.

Indian Railways operates under the Ministry of Railways, not the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.Top of FormBottom of Form

ISRAEL SUFFERS CASUALTIES IN LEBANON OPERATION

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

Israel’s recent ground incursion into Lebanon has heightened tensions in West Asia, resulting in the deaths of eight Israeli soldiers. This escalation follows a missile attack by Iran on Israel, which has prompted retaliatory threats and worsened the situation in Lebanon, leading to rising casualties and mass displacements.

Israeli Ground Incursion

• Ground Offensive: Israel initiated a ground operation in Lebanon aimed at confronting Hezbollah militants, which has resulted in significant military casualties.
• Casualties: Eight Israeli soldiers have been reported dead, including seven soldiers who lost their lives in two separate attacks, alongside a 22-year-old captain who died earlier.
• Timing: The incursions coincided with Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year, amplifying the significance of the attacks during this period.

Iran’s Ballistic Missile Attack

• Nature of Attack: Iran executed its largest missile strike on Israel, targeting three Israeli military installations.
• Defense Mechanism: Most of the incoming missiles were intercepted by Israeli air defenses, which are bolstered by a U.S.-led coalition designed to enhance defense capabilities.
• Israeli Response: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned Iran’s actions as “a big mistake” and indicated a commitment to retaliate against these provocations.

Responses and Warnings

• Iran’s Stance: Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian indicated that while the missile attack was significant, it would not escalate further unless Israel provoked a stronger response.
• Hezbollah’s Claim: Hezbollah announced that it successfully thwarted an Israeli attempt to infiltrate southern Lebanon, destroying three Merkava tanks in the process.
• Israeli Military Operations: In response to the conflict, Israel conducted two short incursions into Lebanon, advising residents to evacuate from over 20 designated areas to ensure their safety.

U.S. Position

• Sanctions on Iran: U.S. President Joe Biden has declared additional sanctions against Iran in light of the missile attacks, highlighting the U.S.’s opposition to any Israeli military strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities.
• Call for Proportionality: Biden emphasized the importance of proportionality in Israel’s response, suggesting that ongoing discussions are taking place among G-7 nations to address the evolving situation in the region.

India Calls for Restraint

• Expressing Concern: The Indian government has voiced deep concern regarding the escalating crisis in West Asia following Iran’s missile strikes on Tel Aviv.
• Appeal for Restraint: India has urged all involved parties to exercise restraint, stressing the necessity of preventing the conflict from spreading into a broader regional crisis.
• Advocating for Peace: The Indian government has called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, reinforcing its commitment to diplomatic engagement in international affairs.

Impact on Lebanon

• Humanitarian Crisis: The ongoing conflict has had devastating effects in Lebanon, with nearly 1,900 individuals reported killed and over 9,000 injured due to the nearly year-long cross-border fighting.
• Displacement: The escalation of violence over the past two weeks has resulted in significant humanitarian concerns, with more than a million people displaced from their homes as the conflict continues to intensify.
• Escalation in Violence: The situation remains precarious, with the potential for further escalation if diplomatic efforts to resolve the tensions are not prioritized.

Conclusion

The current conflict in West Asia, particularly the Israeli incursions into Lebanon and Iran’s missile attacks, underscores the fragility of peace in the region. The loss of lives and the humanitarian toll on the Lebanese population highlight the urgent need for international diplomatic intervention.

NEW FOOD SAFETY DIRECTIVES SPARK LEGAL AND SOCIAL DEBATE OVER TRANSPARENCY AND DISCRIMINATION CONCERNS

TOPIC: (GS2) GOVERNANCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

UP government mandates food establishments to display names of key personnel (operator, proprietor, manager). Raises questions about regulatory framework under the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA), 2006, and state powers. Sparks debate on transparency and potential discrimination.

Regulatory Framework for Food Businesses in India

• FSSA, 2006: Governs food safety regulations in India; mandates registration or licensing of food businesses by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
• Registration and Licensing:
  • Small-scale businesses (e.g., hawkers, vendors) need to register.
  • Larger businesses require a license.
  • Registration certificate and license must be prominently displayed.

State Government Powers Under FSSA

• Rulemaking: State governments can create additional rules under Section 94 of the FSSA with Food Authority approval.
• State Initiatives: States like UP and Himachal Pradesh introduced measures for food safety and transparency (e.g., display of personnel names, CCTV installation).

Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Section 63 of FSSA: Operators without proper registration or license face up to six months imprisonment and fines up to ₹5 lakh.
• Improvement Notice: Violations may result in an Improvement Notice; continued non-compliance can lead to license suspension or cancellation.

Controversy Over the Directives

• Discrimination Concerns: Displaying owner details may lead to forced disclosure of religious or caste identities, potentially violating Article 15(1) of the Constitution.
• Constitutional Debate: Concerns about targeting minority groups, leading to biased treatment and economic marginalization.

Rationale Behind the New Directives

• Public Health Concerns: Justified by incidents of food adulteration; stricter regulations deemed necessary for food safety.
• Additional Safety Measures: Mandated installation of CCTV cameras in food establishments for better surveillance and hygiene practices.

Conclusion

Directives aim to enhance transparency and food safety under FSSA, 2006. Legal and social debates arise regarding potential discrimination and implications for constitutional rights. Balancing public safety and individual rights remains a central issue in the discussion.

2 WOMEN NAVY OFFICERS BEGIN VOYAGE AROUND THE WORLD

TOPIC: (GS2) GOVERNANCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

Lieutenant Commanders Dilna K. and Roopa A. of the Indian Navy have embarked on a circumnavigation expedition aboard the INSV Tarini.

• The voyage, named Navika Sagar Parikrama, aims to enhance scientific research and showcase women’s achievements in naval operations.
• The expedition was flagged off by Navy chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi from INS Mandovi, Goa.
• The INSV Tarini, a 56-foot vessel, is equipped with advanced navigation, safety, and communication systems.
• The journey consists of five legs with stopovers at four ports: Fremantle (Australia), Lyttleton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Falkland), and Cape Town (South Africa).
• The expedition aims to contribute to national scientific research, including studies on marine microplastics and large sea mammals.
• Both officers have extensive sailing experience and have trained for over three years for this voyage.

BRAZIL’S COAST ERODING AT AN ALARMING RATE

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: INDIAN EXPRESS

Coastal erosion in Brazil, particularly in the town of Atafona, is a pressing environmental issue driven by climate change and other factors. As sea levels rise and coastal ecosystems degrade, communities are facing significant challenges and losses.

Key Points:

• Climate Change and River Silting: Coastal erosion in Atafona is exacerbated by climate change and the silting of rivers, which can reduce the natural barriers that protect the coast.
• Rising Sea Levels: Sea levels in Brazil have risen by 13 cm in the past 30 years, and projections indicate a further rise of 16 cm by 2050.
• Inland Ocean Advance: Coastal areas may experience an inland ocean advance of up to 150 meters in the next 28 years, posing a significant threat to communities and infrastructure.
• Beach Erosion: The beach in Ponta Negra has lost 15 meters of sand in the past two decades, necessitating costly restoration efforts.
• Saltwater Intrusion: Saltwater intrusion into the Amazon River is a growing concern, threatening biodiversity and local fishing communities, especially during severe droughts.
• Accelerating Sea Level Rise: The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports that sea level rise has accelerated, reaching 0.48 cm annually, which is more than double previous rates.

Conclusion:

The erosion of Brazil’s coastline, driven by climate change and other factors, is a major environmental challenge with severe consequences for coastal communities. Urgent measures are needed to address this issue, including adaptation strategies, conservation efforts, and sustainable development practices.

NEW STUDY SHEDS LIGHT ON HOW PSYCHEDELICS MAY TREAT ANXIETY

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

A groundbreaking study has revealed how psychedelics may reduce anxiety by targeting specific brain cells, offering promising insights for the development of novel anxiety treatments.

Key Findings:

• Potential for Treating Anxiety and Depression: Psychedelics, traditionally associated with counterculture and spiritual experiences, are being explored for their therapeutic potential in treating anxiety and depression.
• Research by Indian Neuroscientist: The study, led by Indian neuroscientist Vidita Vaidya, was conducted at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in Mumbai in collaboration with Cornell, Yale, and Columbia.
• Identification of Neural Mechanisms: The study identified specific neural mechanisms that underlie how psychedelics reduce anxiety-like symptoms.
• Psychedelics and the Brain: Psychedelics interact with the brain’s serotonin system, primarily through the 5-HT2A receptor, which plays a crucial role in mood and emotions.
• Ventral Hippocampus and Anxiety Regulation: The study found that the ventral hippocampus (vHpc) is a key brain region involved in emotional regulation.
• Activation of Interneurons: PV-positive interneurons in the vHpc, which help manage anxiety signals, were activated by the psychedelic DOI, leading to a reduction in anxiety symptoms.

Implications for Future Treatments:

• Targeted Anxiety Drugs: The study’s findings suggest that by understanding how psychedelics work in specific brain areas, researchers can develop targeted anxiety treatments that avoid unwanted side effects.
• Drug Development: The research paves the way for the development of new anxiety drugs inspired by psychedelics, focusing on the beneficial pathways while avoiding hallucinogenic effects.

Conclusion:

This groundbreaking study offers valuable insights into how psychedelics may be used to treat anxiety. The findings could lead to the development of more effective and targeted therapies for individuals suffering from anxiety disorders.