04-December-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

REFLECTIONS ON BAKU’S NCQG OUTCOME

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

With COP29 in Baku focusing on finance, the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) was expected to address the critical financial needs for climate action, especially for developing nations. However, the outcomes have left much to be desired.

Importance of Climate Finance for Developing Countries

• Critical for Cleaner Alternatives: Developing nations require financial support to adopt renewable energy and green technologies. While these options reduce long-term costs, their high initial investments often make them unaffordable without external aid.
• Government Support: Upfront costs for green technologies require government subsidies to ensure accessibility. For instance, India allocated ₹19,100 crore in its 2024-25 budget for renewable energy and ₹5,790 crore under the FAME-II scheme to promote electric vehicles.
• Public Grants vs. Loans: Developing countries advocate for grants over loans, as high debt burdens hinder their capacity to mobilize private capital for climate initiatives. Affordable and accessible finance is crucial for these nations to achieve their climate goals.

Challenges with Financial Commitments

• High Cost of Capital: Lending rates for developing countries are significantly higher, making climate finance inaccessible. Most financial flows remain concentrated in developed nations.
• Limited Quantum of Funding: At COP29, developed nations committed $300 billion annually until 2035. This amount, far below the $1.3 trillion annually requested by developing nations, is inadequate to meet the required scale of action.
• Reliance on Private Capital: The inclusion of private financing in the commitment adds uncertainty, as it fails to address the structural challenges faced by developing nations.

Role and Shortcomings of NCQG

• Background: The NCQG, proposed at COP21, aimed to establish a transparent and accountable framework for climate finance.
• Disappointing Outcome: The $300 billion annual commitment is insufficient and does not represent a significant increase in real terms. It undermines the principles of equity and climate justice, failing to support transformative action.
• Limited Progress: While tripling public resources for adaptation funds and other initiatives by 2035 is positive, the slow pace undermines the urgency of climate change mitigation.

The Way Forward

• Strengthen Negotiations: Developing countries must collectively advocate for fair and just transitions, emphasizing the principles of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC).
• Global Cooperation: Climate action requires unified efforts, transcending geographical boundaries, to uphold climate justice and address the disproportionate impacts on the global south.

Conclusion

The NCQG outcome from COP29 highlights the gaps in climate financing commitments. While a step forward, it fails to meet the transformative needs of the developing world. Continued dialogue and solidarity among nations are essential to achieving equitable and effective climate solutions.

PARDONING POWER AND RELATED CONTROVERSIES

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

The pardoning power is a constitutional authority allowing certain officials to grant clemency to convicted individuals. While it is intended to correct judicial errors or provide relief in exceptional circumstances, the use of this power has often been contentious, raising concerns about misuse and favouritism.

Pardoning Power in the United States

• The U.S. Constitution grants the President the power to pardon federal criminal offenses, except in cases of impeachment.
• This power allows the President to pardon individuals:
  • Before legal proceedings begin.
  • During or after conviction.
• A pardon provides relief from punishment and related disqualifications but does not erase the criminal record.

Historical Context

• First Controversy: President George Washington pardoned leaders of the “Whiskey Rebellion” in 1795, who protested against a federal tax.
• Bill Clinton’s Case: In 2001, he pardoned his half-brother Roger on his last day in office.
• Donald Trump’s Controversy: Pardoned his son-in-law’s father in 2020.

Current Controversy

• President Joe Biden recently granted a full pardon to his son, Hunter Biden, for tax and gun-related offenses, as well as any potential federal crimes committed between 2014 and 2024.
• Critics argue this contradicts Biden’s earlier public promise not to pardon his son, raising concerns about nepotism and selective justice.

Pardoning Power in India

Constitutional Framework

• Article 72: Empowers the President to pardon, commute, remit, or reprieve sentences for offenses.
• Article 161: Provides similar powers to the Governor of a state.
• These powers are exercised based on the advice of the Council of Ministers.

Judicial Oversight

• In the Epuru Sudhakar Case (2006), the Supreme Court ruled that the exercise of pardoning power is subject to judicial review if found arbitrary, mala fide, or influenced by extraneous factors.

Way Forward

• Transparency and Fairness: The pardoning power must not reflect favouritism or nepotism to maintain public trust in constitutional offices.
• Judicial Reforms: Establish bodies like the U.K.’s Criminal Cases Review Commission to address judicial errors transparently, reducing reliance on clemency.
• Clear Guidelines: Define criteria for granting pardons to ensure decisions are based on justice and not political considerations.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PARDONING POWERS OF GOVERNOR AND PRESIDENT

Scope of Power:

• President: The President has extensive pardoning powers, including the power to grant pardon, reprieve, respite, or remission of punishment for offenses committed under central laws, and also for offenses tried in military courts.
• Governor: The Governor’s pardoning powers are more limited and confined to offenses under state laws, or offenses committed within the state’s jurisdiction.

Types of Cases:

• President: The President can grant pardon for cases related to central laws, death sentences, and cases tried in military courts. The President’s powers are broader and apply to a wider range of offenses.
• Governor: The Governor’s powers apply to offenses committed within the state, and may extend to commutation of death sentences in state cases, but do not cover offenses under central law or military cases.

Advisory Role:

• President: While the President’s powers are discretionary, they are exercised on the advice of the Union Cabinet, which makes the final decision.
• Governor: The Governor exercises his or her powers on the advice of the state government, typically the Chief Minister and the Council of Ministers, and the powers are more limited in scope compared to the President’s.

Conclusion

The pardoning power is a significant constitutional authority rooted in historical practices. To preserve its sanctity, it must be exercised judiciously, upholding fairness and public confidence in democratic institutions.

THE 1984 BHOPAL DISASTER: TOXINS AND THEIR IMPACT

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

The Bhopal gas tragedy, which occurred on the night of December 2-3, 1984, is one of the world’s worst industrial disasters. Toxic gases leaked from the Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL) plant, causing thousands of deaths and leaving long-term environmental and health effects. Even after 40 years, hazardous waste remains at the site, posing continued risks.

Toxins Associated with the Disaster

Methyl Isocyanate (MIC):

• A highly toxic chemical used to produce carbaryl, an insecticide.
• Reacts violently with water, releasing heat and forming toxic vapours.
• Causes severe eye and respiratory irritation, but its odour is not easily detectable at low concentrations.
• Its reaction with water led to the massive gas leak in 1984.

Other Possible Gases:

• The exact composition of leaked gases remains undisclosed, hampering effective medical responses.
• Observations of red-coloured viscera in victims raised suspicions of hydrogen cyanide presence.

Heavy Metals Found at the Site

• Mercury: Toxic even in small amounts, accumulates in tissues, causing organ damage.
• Chromium: Essential in small doses but can damage the immune system and cause cancers in high concentrations.
• Lead: Disrupts photosynthesis in plants, damages cells, and is linked to stomach and lung cancers.
• Nickel: Associated with respiratory and sinus cancers.
• Copper: Excess levels harm the liver, kidneys, and digestive system.

Environmental and Health Impact

• Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs): These long-lasting toxins lead to cancers, immune disorders, nervous system damage, and reproductive issues.

• POPs continue to contaminate groundwater, soil, and air around the plant, affecting nearby communities.

Current Status and Challenges

• An estimated 11 lakh tonnes of contaminated soil and underground waste remain on-site.
• Only a fraction of the 340 tonnes of identified waste has been incinerated due to fears of toxic emissions.
• Reports highlight contamination spreading to nearby communities, affecting drinking water supplies.

Conclusion

The Bhopal disaster remains a grim reminder of the need for stringent industrial safety measures and effective toxic waste management. The persistent presence of hazardous chemicals demands urgent action to mitigate risks to public health and the environment.

THE NEW PHASE OF THE SYRIAN CIVIL WAR

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Syrian civil war, which began in 2011, had seemingly reached a stalemate in recent years. However, recent global events and regional dynamics have reignited conflict in the war-torn country. On November 27, 2024, armed insurgents launched a renewed offensive against President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, marking a new phase of hostilities.

The Rebels and Their Alliances

Hayat Tahrir al-Shaam (HTS)

• Initially an al-Qaeda affiliate called Jabhat al-Nusra, HTS later rebranded to focus on Syrian liberation.
• Despite its U.S. terror designation, leader Abu Mohammad al-Jolani has distanced HTS from global jihadist goals.

Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)

• A Kurdish-led coalition governing parts of northeastern Syria.
• Primarily opposes ISIS but often clashes with Assad’s forces and Turkey-backed militias.
• U.S. support waned under the Trump administration.

Syrian National Army (SNA)

• Turkey-backed group evolved from the Free Syrian Army.
• Opposes Assad’s regime and Kurdish forces, aligning with HTS in the current offensive.

Role of External Actors

Turkey:

• Occupies parts of northern Syria and supports the SNA to counter Kurdish militias and Assad.
• Aims to secure a buffer zone against Kurdish-controlled territories, viewing Kurdish groups as terrorist threats.

Russia and Iran:

• Key allies of Assad, offering military and logistical support.
• Russia’s involvement has been strained by its focus on the Ukraine conflict, weakening its position in Syria.

United States:

• Limited engagement in Syria, primarily due to shifting priorities.
• Maintains a cautious stance regarding Turkey’s actions and Assad’s regime.

Reasons for Renewed Conflict

• Global Conflicts: Russia’s resources are stretched thin due to the Ukraine war. Israel’s offensive in Lebanon has weakened Iranian-backed Hezbollah, reducing Assad’s support.
• Regional Dynamics: The absence of Hezbollah, previously critical to Assad’s victories, has emboldened the rebels. Turkey’s strategic moves to assert dominance amid regional instability.

Implications for Assad and the Region

• Assad’s control remains incomplete, with northern Syria still under Turkish influence and rebel threats.
• Regional powers like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are wary of renewed instability and Turkey’s growing influence.
• India supports Assad’s regime, advocating for political stability in the region, as reflected in recent diplomatic engagements.

Conclusion

The rekindled Syrian civil war underscores the fragile nature of ceasefires in the region. As global and regional conflicts converge, lasting peace remains elusive, posing risks to regional stability and international diplomacy.

PROTECTING INDIA’S CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

India recognized as a megadiverse country, it boasts rich biodiversity across its 10 biogeographic zones. World Wildlife Conservation Day (December 4) serves as a reminder to celebrate this biodiversity and assess efforts to protect critically endangered species.

India’s Biodiversity Significance

India hosts 8.58% of mammalian species, 13.66% of bird species, and 11.72% of fish species recorded globally.

Four of the 34 global biodiversity hotspots are located here:

• The Himalayas
• Indo-Burma
• Western Ghats-Sri Lanka
• Sundaland

The nation’s biodiversity is in conflict with its economic growth, which demands land and resources.

Challenges to Wildlife Conservation

• Population Pressure: As the world’s most populous country, urban expansion and resource extraction threaten wildlife habitats.
• Coexistence with Humans: Wildlife often comes into conflict with human settlements due to habitat encroachment.
• Cultural Tolerance: Though Indian traditions revere animals, this alone does not safeguard biodiversity.

Critically Endangered Species

• As of 2022, India has 73 critically endangered species, up from 47 in 2011.
• The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies species at the highest risk of extinction as critically endangered.
• Notable critically endangered species:
  • Mammals: Kashmir stag (Hangul), Malabar large-spotted civet, and Namdapha flying squirrel.
  • Birds: Great Indian Bustard, threatened by powerlines in Rajasthan.

INTERNATIONAL UNION FOR CONSERVATION OF NATURE (IUCN)

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is the primary organization responsible for categorizing species globally through its Red List of Threatened Species.

Threatened Species:

These species are at risk of extinction in the near future due to various factors such as habitat loss, poaching, climate change, and invasive species.

Threatened species are categorized into three primary levels:

·       Endangered (EN): Species at a very high risk of extinction in the wild.

·       Vulnerable (VU): Species facing a high risk of endangerment in the wild.

·       Critically Endangered (CR): Species facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the immediate future.

Extinct Species: Species that no longer exist, either in the wild or anywhere on Earth. Examples include the dodo and the woolly mammoth.

Near Threatened Species: Species that are not currently at risk of extinction but are close to becoming threatened in the near future if their conditions do not improve.

Least Concern Species: Species that are widespread and abundant in nature and are not at immediate risk of extinction.

Conclusion

India’s biodiversity is invaluable, but rapid development poses significant threats. Strengthened conservation strategies are crucial to safeguarding critically endangered species for future generations.

ICJ HEARING ON CLIMATE CHANGE

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has begun hearings on a significant climate change case, initiated by the Pacific Island nation of Vanuatu. The case seeks an advisory opinion on countries’ obligations under international laws to address climate change and the consequences of failing to meet these obligations.

Why in News?

• Developing nations, disappointed by limited climate finance commitments, have turned to ICJ for accountability.
• The case could impact climate-related lawsuits and influence international climate negotiations.

Background of the Case

• Origin: The case stems from a UN General Assembly (UNGA) resolution initiated by Vanuatu in 2021, co-sponsored by 132 countries and adopted in March 2022.
• Vanuatu’s Vulnerability: This small island nation faces existential threats from rising sea levels.
• Questions Raised:

• • What are countries’ obligations under international laws to protect the climate?
  • What are the legal consequences for countries harming the climate system?

Legal Context

• Primary laws include the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement.
• Related frameworks include the UN Convention on the Law of the Seas, Convention on Biological Diversity, Universal Declaration on Human Rights, and others.

Significance of the Hearing

• Advisory Nature: ICJ’s opinion is non-binding but could carry significant moral and legal weight.
• Expanded Responsibilities: The ruling may link climate obligations of developed countries to a broader set of international laws beyond the UNFCCC and Paris Agreement.
• Accountability for Developed Nations: Developed countries, responsible for historical emissions, could face greater scrutiny and demands for climate compensation.
• Impact on Climate Lawsuits: Over 2,600 climate-related lawsuits filed globally could leverage this advisory opinion as a precedent.
• Support for Developing Nations: Small Island states could use the ruling to strengthen their demand for financial compensation for climate-related damages.

Broader Implications

• Global Representation: A record 97 countries and several international organizations are participating in the hearing.
• U.S. Involvement: Although preferring diplomatic solutions, the U.S. has joined to share its legal perspectives.
• Precedent for Human Rights: Courts worldwide, including India’s Supreme Court, are recognizing climate change impacts as violations of fundamental rights.

INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE (ICJ)

Role:
The ICJ, the UN’s judicial organ, resolves disputes between nations under international law and gives advisory opinions on legal matters.

Composition:
It has 15 judges elected by the UN General Assembly and Security Council, serving nine-year terms and representing major legal systems.

Significance:
Its non-binding advisory opinions influence international law and guide nations on global issues.

Conclusion

The ICJ hearing represents a crucial step toward holding nations accountable for their climate responsibilities. It has the potential to redefine global climate governance and bolster developing nations’ demands for justice in addressing climate change.

MGNREGS JOB CARD DELETIONS: CENTRE’S RESPONSE

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) has recently faced scrutiny regarding the deletion of job cards.

In response to these concerns, the Union Ministry of Rural Development clarified that the Centre has no involvement in the deletion of job cards. This clarification came during the Lok Sabha’s Question Hour session.

No Centre’s Role in Job Card Deletions:

• The Union Ministry of Rural Development stated that the deletion of job cards is a responsibility of the State governments, and the Centre plays no part in this process.
• The job card deletions occur for several reasons such as duplicate or fake cards, beneficiaries moving from one panchayat to another, death of beneficiaries, voluntary withdrawal, or reclassification of areas as urban.

Aadhaar-based Payment System:

• The Ministry addressed concerns regarding the Aadhaar-based payment system, which was made mandatory for MGNREGS wages.
• The Ministry emphasized that the Aadhaar seeding of job cards was intended to increase transparency and not to create barriers. The Ministry denied any link between the implementation of Aadhaar-based payments and the rise in job card deletions.

Increase in Job Card Deletions:

• There was a significant surge in job card deletions, from 1.49 crore in 2021-22 to 5.53 crore in 2022-23, a 247% increase.
• The Ministry acknowledged this increase but maintained that the deletions followed the guidelines set by the programme and were the State’s responsibility.

Budgetary Allocation and Irregularities:

• On queries regarding budget cuts, the Ministry explained that MGNREGS is a demand-based scheme, and the allocation is increased based on the demands raised by State governments.
• Allegations about the stoppage of funds to certain states due to irregularities were addressed, with the Ministry confirming that the funds were withheld due to issues identified in the state’s implementation of the scheme.

QUESTION HOUR IN PARLIAMENT:

Purpose: Question Hour allows MPs to ask the government questions, ensuring accountability.

Types of Questions: Starred Questions (oral answers), Unstarred Questions (written answers), and Short Notice Questions (urgent issues).

Timing and Procedure: Held at the start of Parliament sessions, lasting one hour, where MPs ask questions and receive responses from ministers.

Conclusion:

The Centre’s response clarifies that the deletion of job cards and the implementation of Aadhaar-based payments are matters managed by State governments, with the Ministry ensuring transparency and demand-based funding for the MGNREGS. The increasing deletions and fund stoppages remain key issues to be monitored.

USE OF AI IN ACADEMIA: ETHICAL AND PRACTICAL CHALLENGES

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The use of Generative AI (GenAI) in academia raises significant ethical issues. A case involving a student challenging a university’s penalty for using AI-generated content highlights concerns about academic integrity and fairness.

Ethical Issues and Academic Integrity:

AI-generated Content Challenges:

• While AI tools can enhance learning, their misuse in exams and assignments undermines educational goals. Many institutions struggle with ensuring originality in student submissions.
• Using AI tools for assignments without disclosure can lead to academic dishonesty, raising concerns about the authenticity of work.

Institutional Responses:

• Many Indian institutions are slow to adapt. Some still rely on traditional evaluation methods, while others use AI detection tools like Turnitin, which are prone to false positives.
• These tools may fail to distinguish between fully AI-generated content and modified content, leading to unreliable assessments.

Addressing the Issue:

• Institution-Level Guidelines: Institutions should set clear guidelines on permissible AI use to help students understand acceptable practices. Collaborative efforts are needed to ensure consistent enforcement.
• Supplementing Assessments: Oral exams can complement written assessments, allowing a more accurate evaluation of students’ understanding and reducing reliance on AI-generated work. This requires increased faculty involvement.

Transparency and Accountability:

• Disclosure of AI Use: Institutions should require students to disclose AI tool usage. This promotes transparency and supports fair investigations into potential misuse.

• Version history tools can help track changes, ensuring clarity on what was AI-generated.

• Reform Incentives: The current “publish-or-perish” culture in academia prioritizes quantity over quality. Shifting focus to rewarding research quality will reduce unethical practices.

Conclusion:

Clear guidelines, oral assessments, and better incentives are necessary to balance the benefits and challenges of AI in academia while maintaining academic integrity.