07-August-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

POWERING UP TO GET TO THE $30-TRILLION ECONOMY POINT

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

India’s ambitious goal of achieving a $30-trillion economy by 2047 demands relentless economic growth and robust policies. However, India’s journey to this milestone is fraught with challenges and requires a strategic approach to leverage its potential.

Potential of India’s Working-Age Population

• Demographic Advantage: India’s working-age population holds immense potential with around 950 million people, but only half are employed.
• Employment Equity: Focus on low-skilled, employment-intensive manufacturing akin to East Asian nations can drive double-digit growth.
• Export-Led Growth: From 1990 to 2013, exports grew from 7% to 25% of GDP. Capitalizing on this can attract global manufacturers and investors.

Income Inequality and Economic Growth

• Inequality Concerns: Economic liberalization since 1991 has not significantly reduced poverty, raising concerns about rising inequality.
• Entrepreneurship: Encouraging wealth creation through entrepreneurship is crucial for inclusive growth.
• Focus on Bottom of the Pyramid: Strategies should prioritize improving the lives of the underprivileged to ensure equitable growth.

Industrial Growth and Competition

• Middle-Income Trap: To avoid the middle-income trap, India must resist protectionist tariffs that can hinder competitiveness and innovation.
• Clustered Industrial Model: Developing industrial clusters can boost productivity and innovation, attracting global investments.
• Sectoral Focus: Enhancing sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, and education can provide sustained economic benefits.

Policy Recommendations

• Labour Reforms: Address underemployment and improve labor productivity through reforms.
• Gender Equity: Increase female labor force participation to drive economic growth.
• Ease of Doing Business: Simplifying business regulations and reducing bureaucratic hurdles are essential for fostering a conducive business environment.

Conclusion

India’s aspiration to become a $30-trillion economy by 2047 is achievable with strategic policies focusing on inclusive growth, leveraging demographic advantages, and fostering a competitive industrial environment. Emphasizing employment, reducing inequality, and streamlining business processes will be key to unlocking India’s full economic potential.

NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCY AMONG THE POOR IN INDIA

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

The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) has recently released an in-depth report based on the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2022-23. This analysis uses detailed data on household consumption of food and non-food items to highlight the nutritional deficiency among the poor.

Approach of Measurement

Poverty Line Definition:

• Committees like Lakdawala, Tendulkar, and Rangarajan have defined poverty lines (PL) differently.
• Lakdawala: Anchored PL to caloric norms (2,400 kcal/day for rural and 2,100 kcal/day for urban).
• Tendulkar: Poverty Line Based on Consumption Expenditure and uniform poverty line basket (PLB) was recommended for both rural and urban areas, adjusted for price differences.
• Rangarajan: Based on a broader basket of goods, using a combination of nutritional and non-food requirements.

Per Capita Calorie Requirement (PCCR):

• Derived as the average calorie requirement for a healthy life, based on ICMR-NIN recommendations.
• Weighted average calculated for different age-sex-activity groups.
• Findings

Calorie Intake:

• Estimated calorie intake (PCCR) at 2,172 kcal/day for rural and 2,135 kcal/day for urban areas in 2022-23.
• The corresponding Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) was ₹1,680 (rural) and ₹2,230 (urban).

Poverty Proportions:

• Proportion of poor, based on MPCE thresholds, is estimated at 17.1% for rural and 14% for urban areas.
• Higher thresholds increase these proportions to 23.2% (rural) and 19.4% (urban).

Nutritional Deficiency:

• Average PCCR deficit: 1,564 kcal (rural) and 1,764 kcal (urban).
• Highlights severe nutritional inadequacies, necessitating targeted welfare programs.

Conclusion

The NSSO’s HCES report underscores the critical need for enhancing nutritional intake among India’s poor. Bridging the caloric intake gap is essential for improving health and productivity. This calls for effective implementation of nutritional schemes to ensure a healthier future for all. 

ON U.P.’S STRINGENT ANTI-CONVERSION LAW

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

The Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly passed the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion (Amendment) Bill, 2024, on July 30, 2024. This amendment strengthens the original 2021 anti-conversion law, making its provisions more stringent and prone to misuse.

Reasons for Amendment

• Stringency: The amendment aims to make the law as stringent as possible.
• Data: 427 cases registered from January 1, 2021, to April 30, 2023.

Increased Penalties

• Original: 1 to 5 years imprisonment, ₹15,000 fine.
• Amended: 5 to 10 years imprisonment, ₹50,000 fine.

Special Categories:

• Original: 2 to 10 years imprisonment, ₹25,000 fine.
• Amended: 5 to 14 years imprisonment, ₹1 lakh fine.

Complaint Registration

• Original Act: Only aggrieved persons or immediate family could file complaints.
• Amended Act: Any person can file an FIR.

Bail Provisions

• Non-bailable Offences: All offences are now non-bailable.

Twin Conditions for Bail:

• Public prosecutor must contest bail.
• Bail granted only if the accused is unlikely to commit further offences.
• Reverse burden of proof on the accused.

Punishment Severity:

• Other states: 2 to 10 years imprisonment, no life imprisonment.

Pros

Deterrence Against Forced Conversions:

• Stronger Penalties: The increased penalties for unlawful conversions act as a deterrent against forced or fraudulent conversions.
• Enhanced Monitoring: The requirement for prior notice and police inquiry can help authorities monitor conversion activities more closely, potentially preventing illegal conversions.

Protection of Vulnerable Groups:

• Special Provisions: Higher penalties for conversions involving minors, women, and Scheduled Castes or Tribes provide additional protection to these vulnerable groups.

Addressing National Security Concerns:

• Foreign Funding: The amendment addresses concerns about foreign funding and influence in religious conversions, aiming to curb potential misuse by anti-national elements.

Public Awareness:

• Increased Awareness: The law may lead to greater public awareness about the legal implications of forced conversions and the importance of voluntary religious choice.

Cons

Potential for Misuse:

• Third-Party Complaints: Allowing any person to file an FIR could lead to misuse by individuals or groups with vested interests, resulting in frivolous or malicious complaints.
• Reverse Burden of Proof: The stringent bail conditions and the reverse burden of proof on the accused can lead to potential abuse and prolonged detention of innocent individuals.

Impact on Religious Freedom:

• Chilling Effect: The stringent provisions may create a chilling effect on genuine religious conversions, infringing upon individuals’ right to freedom of religion as guaranteed by the Constitution.
• Fear and Intimidation: The fear of legal repercussions may deter individuals from converting, even when it is a voluntary and personal decision.

Administrative Challenges:

• Police Inquiry: The requirement for police inquiries into conversion intentions may strain law enforcement resources and lead to administrative burdens.
• Judicial Overload: The high threshold for securing bail and the possibility of increased litigation could overload the judiciary, leading to delays in justice.

Comparison with Other States:

• Stringency: The law is more stringent than similar laws in other states, which may lead to inconsistencies and challenges in its implementation.
• Human Rights Concerns: The possibility of life imprisonment for certain offences related to conversion is significantly harsher compared to other states, raising human rights concerns.

Conclusion

The amendment faces likely constitutional challenges regarding its compatibility with Article 25, guaranteeing freedom of religion. Pending petitions and Supreme Court adjudications will be crucial in determining the future of these stringent measures.

FOOD COST SURGE IN JULY 2024

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: ECONOMIC TIMES

In July 2024, food costs for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals surged to their highest levels in 11 months, driven primarily by increased prices of key vegetables. This rise follows notable fluctuations in the prices of tomatoes, onions, and potatoes, as reported by Crisil’s monthly cost tracker.

Vegetable Price Trends

• Tomatoes: Prices rose sharply by 55% from June to July, reaching ₹66 per kg. This is a 40% decrease compared to July 2023, when tomatoes were priced at ₹110 per kg.
• Onions: Prices surged by 20% from June to July, reflecting a 65% year-on-year increase.
• Potatoes: Prices climbed 16% month-on-month and were 55% higher compared to July 2023, due to lower crop arrivals.

Impact on Meal Costs

• Vegetarian Meals: The average cost increased by 11% from June to July, reaching ₹32.6. Despite this, the year-on-year cost dropped by 9% due to the high base from the previous year.
• Non-Vegetarian Meals: Costs rose by 6% from June to July, reaching ₹61.4. The year-on-year cost fell by 4%.

Key Strategies

Improving Agricultural Productivity

• Technological Advancements: Adopt modern farming techniques and technologies to enhance yield.
• Quality Seeds: Provide high-yield and disease-resistant seed varieties.
• Irrigation Systems: Develop efficient irrigation methods to ensure stable water supply.

Enhancing Supply Chain Efficiency

• Cold Storage Facilities: Invest in cold storage to reduce post-harvest losses.
• Transportation: Improve logistics and infrastructure to minimize spoilage during transportation.
• Market Linkages: Strengthen connections between farmers and markets to streamline distribution.

Supporting Farmers

• Subsidies and Grants: Provide financial assistance for purchasing inputs and upgrading technology.
• Training and Education: Offer training programs to improve farming practices and productivity.
• Access to Credit: Facilitate access to affordable credit for small and medium-sized farmers.

Regulating Markets

• Price Controls: Implement temporary price controls to prevent excessive inflation during crisis periods.
• Market Monitoring: Increase monitoring of market practices to prevent hoarding and price manipulation.

Encouraging Urban Agriculture

• Urban Gardens: Promote community and rooftop gardens to supplement local vegetable supply.
• Government Incentives: Offer incentives for urban farming initiatives and local produce markets.

Reducing Import Dependence

• Diversify Sources: Explore alternative sources of vegetables to reduce dependency on imports.
• Trade Policies: Adjust trade policies to balance imports and protect local farmers.

Addressing Seasonal Variations

• Seasonal Planning: Plan agricultural activities to match seasonal demand and supply cycles.
• Crop Diversification: Encourage crop diversification to reduce reliance on a few vegetable types.

Conclusion

The sharp rise in food prices in July 2024 highlights the impact of fluctuating vegetable costs on overall meal expenses. Lower rabi production and agricultural issues such as late blight have significantly affected prices, contributing to increased food inflation.

DEBATE OVER GST ON HEALTH AND LIFE INSURANCE

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: ECONOMIC TIMES

GST on health and life insurance premiums has become a contentious issue.Opposition leaders and various stakeholders are advocating for its removal due to affordability concerns.

Current GST Rates and Impact

• GST Rate: Set at 18% since July 1, 2017, replacing a 15% service tax rate.
• Impact on Premiums: Increase in GST from 15% to 18% has raised premiums, making insurance less affordable.
• Recent Trends: Health insurance premiums have increased by up to 50% this year; medical inflation was around 14% at the end of the previous year.

Arguments for Withdrawing GST

• Affordability: High GST rates have led to increased premiums, decreasing policy renewals and affecting insurance accessibility.
• International Comparison: Countries like Singapore and Hong Kong do not impose GST or VAT on insurance, highlighting India’s high tax burden.
• Legislative Recommendations: Standing Committee on Finance suggested rationalizing GST rates, especially for senior citizens and microinsurance policies.

Government and Industry Reactions

• Government Perspective: GST on insurance is a revenue source, contributing significantly to overall GST collections. Rates are set by the GST Council, a constitutional body.
• Industry View: Insurers argue that high GST, along with rising retail and medical inflation, increases operational costs and impacts policy sales.

Conclusion

The debate focuses on balancing tax revenue needs with making insurance more affordable.Reducing GST rates could improve accessibility and support the goal of increased insurance penetration in India.

EARTHQUAKE-INDUCED RIVER AVULSION IN THE GANGES

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY – SOURCE: SCIENCENEWS

A recent 2024 study has uncovered that a major earthquake 2,500 years ago caused a significant shift in the course of the Ganges River. This finding underscores the powerful impact of earthquakes on river dynamics and the potential for severe flooding, exacerbated by modern climate change and human activities.

Discovery of Ancient River Avulsion

• Event: The Ganges River experienced a sudden change in its course about 2,500 years ago.
• Evidence: Researchers identified this avulsion through an ancient paleochannel and two large sand dikes in the Ganges delta, located in Bangladesh.

Understanding River Avulsion

• Definition: River avulsion refers to the abrupt and rapid shift in a river’s course, often triggered by natural events such as earthquakes or floods.
• Impact: This process can drastically alter river systems, affecting sediment deposition and land use patterns.

Evidence of Earthquake Influence

• Sand Dikes: Formed by liquefaction, where sediments behave like a liquid due to earthquake shaking, these structures provided evidence of the seismic event.
• OSL Dating: Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) dating of mineral samples from the paleochannel and sand dikes confirmed that the earthquake and river avulsion occurred simultaneously.
• OSL Dating: Measures trapped electrons in mineral grains to estimate the time since they were last exposed to sunlight or heat, useful for dating sediments.

Implications for Earthquake and River Dynamics

• Significance: The study reveals that large earthquakes can cause major river avulsions, potentially leading to severe flooding, particularly in densely populated deltas like the Ganges-Meghna-Brahmaputra.
• Future Risks: Risks are heightened by factors such as subsidence, embankments, rising sea levels, and extreme weather related to climate change.

Preparation and Coordination

• Research and Monitoring: Increased research is needed to understand the frequency of earthquake-induced avulsions and to develop forecasting methods.
• Collaborative Efforts: Effective risk management requires cooperation between India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar for research, monitoring, and preparedness to mitigate future impacts on vulnerable regions.

Conclusion

This study highlights the profound impact of historical earthquakes on river systems and the necessity for ongoing research and collaborative efforts to manage the risks associated with potential future events.

FINANCIAL CHALLENGES OF EXPANDING AYUSHMAN BHARAT SCHEME

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: ECONOMIC TIMES

Ayushman Bharat, India’s flagship health insurance scheme, faces significant financial challenges due to the high costs associated with senior citizens. The proposed expansion to cover all individuals over 70 could further strain resources.

Overview of Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY

• Launch: Initiated in 2018.
• Coverage: Provides Rs. 5 lakh per family for secondary and tertiary care.
• Benefits: Includes surgeries, medical treatments, diagnostics, and medicines.

Key Statistics

• Senior Citizens: Beneficiaries aged 70+ account for 12% of admissions and 14% of total costs.
• Admissions: Of 6.2 crore hospital admissions till January 2024, 57.5 lakh were for individuals 70+.
• Government Expenditure: Rs 9,878.5 crore spent on these admissions out of Rs 79,200 crore over six years.

Challenges

• Expansion Plans: BJP aims to extend coverage to all individuals over 70, adding about 4 crore beneficiaries.
• Cost Implications: Expanding coverage to older individuals could be more expensive due to their higher healthcare needs and premiums compared to the poorest 40% of the population.

Expert Opinion

• Utilization: Affluent seniors tend to use more healthcare services, driving up costs.

Current Budget and Future Needs

• Budget Allocation: Recent interim budget increased coverage for ASHA and Anganwadi workers but allocated only an additional Rs 100 crore for the insurance scheme, totaling Rs 7,300 crore.
• Demographic Trends: The elderly population in India is expected to grow from 8.6% in 2011 to 19.5% by 2050, increasing from 103 million to 319 million.

State-Level Data

• High Utilization: States like Maharashtra (20.49%), Kerala (18.75%), and Haryana (18.13%) show higher hospital admissions for the 70+ age group compared to their population share.

Conclusion

The expansion of Ayushman Bharat to cover all seniors presents substantial financial challenges. Effective management and allocation of resources are crucial to sustain the scheme’s benefits and address the rising healthcare needs of India’s aging population.

GREEN ENERGY TRANSITION IN INDIA: A REALPOLITIK PERSPECTIVE

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

The transition to green energy in India presents a complex interplay of state-led initiatives, trade policy challenges, and ethical considerations. Effective climate action requires coordinated efforts between central and state governments, as well as addressing trade and governance issues.

Understanding Green Energy

• Definition: Energy derived from renewable sources, including solar, wind, geothermal, biogas, low-impact hydroelectricity, and certain biomass sources.
• Characteristics: Produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions and has a low environmental impact.

State-Led Transitions

• Diverse Progress: India’s green energy shift varies by state, influenced by local policies, demographics, and economic conditions.
• Leaders: States like Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Odisha, and Delhi show rapid advancement due to supportive policies.
• Lagging States: Haryana and Rajasthan face challenges such as inadequate implementation and financial constraints.
• Need for Cohesion: A unified approach is crucial to align central and state efforts, avoiding barriers posed by political and institutional divides.

Trade Policy Tensions

• China’s Role: India’s reliance on Chinese renewable energy components raises concerns about national security and dependency.
• Carbon Taxes: Proposed carbon taxes by major economies (US, EU, UK) on imports challenge India’s balance between sustainability, security, and economic growth.
• Trade-Climate Alignment: Navigating these tensions requires harmonizing trade and climate policies.

Governance and Ethical Imperatives

• Urgency: Immediate impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events, highlight the need for effective action.
• Realpolitik vs. Ethics: Current governance often prioritizes national interests over cooperative global efforts, impeding progress.
• Need for Change: A shift towards ethical and cooperative governance is essential for addressing climate change effectively.

Significance of Green Energy Transition

• Climate and Health: Reduces emissions and air pollution, improving public health.
• Energy Security: Reduces dependency on imports and mitigates price fluctuations.
• Investment and Leadership: Attracts global investment and positions India as a leader in clean energy.
• Technological Opportunities: Advances in energy storage and smart grids foster innovation.

Conclusion

India’s green energy transition is critical for combating climate change, improving public health, and achieving energy security. A coordinated approach, addressing trade and governance challenges, is essential for successful implementation.

STUDY ON SUCRALOSE AS A SUGAR SUBSTITUTE FOR DIABETICS

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

A recent Indian study challenges the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendations against non-nutritive sweeteners by evaluating the effects of sucralose, an artificial sweetener, on individuals with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D).

This research highlights potential benefits of sucralose, particularly its impact on body metrics without affecting glucose levels.

Study Overview

• Objective: Investigate the effects of substituting sucrose with sucralose in beverages (coffee and tea) for individuals with T2D.
• Title: “Effect of replacing sucrose in beverages with non-nutritive sweetener sucralose on cardiometabolic risk factors among Asian Indian adults with Type 2 Diabetes: a 12-week randomised controlled trial.”
• Publication: Diabetes Therapy, July 2024.
• Participants: 210 individuals with T2D, divided into two groups—sucralose intervention and sucrose control.

Key Findings

• Primary Outcomes: No significant difference in HbA1c levels between the sucralose and sucrose groups.
• Secondary Outcomes: Slight improvements in body weight, BMI, and waist circumference in the sucralose group.
• Study Duration: 12 weeks.

Sucralose Characteristics

• Description: An artificial sweetener derived from sugar by substituting chlorine atoms. It is about 600 times sweeter than sucrose.
• Properties: Non-caloric, does not raise blood sugar levels, heat-stable, and highly soluble in water.
• Uses: Common in diet sodas, sugar-free gum, and baked goods.
• Safety: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. Excreted unchanged in urine. Some studies suggest potential impacts on gut bacteria, but evidence is mixed.

Implications and Future Research

• Current Findings: Sucralose may offer benefits in reducing caloric intake without affecting glucose control, providing a counterpoint to negative views on artificial sweeteners.
• Future Research: Planned studies will further investigate the safety and efficacy of sucralose.

Conclusion

The study suggests that sucralose can be a beneficial sugar substitute for individuals with Type 2 Diabetes, potentially improving body metrics without altering glucose levels. This challenges recent WHO recommendations and underscores the need for continued research on non-nutritive sweeteners.

DOORSTEP DELIVERY OF ALCOHOL: IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY

TOPIC: (GS3) SOCIETY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE – SOURCE: THE HINDU

The potential introduction of doorstep alcohol delivery in various Indian states is driven by rising alcohol consumption. This development presents a complex interplay of potential benefits and risks, affecting public health, safety, and revenue.

Current Alcohol Consumption Trends

• Rising Consumption: Per capita alcohol consumption in India has increased from 1.6 litres (2003-2005) to 5.5 litres (2016-2018).
• Market Size: India is the sixth-largest alcohol market globally, with $52 billion in revenue. Approximately 16 crore individuals aged 10-75 consumed alcohol in 2018.
• States Considering Delivery: Delhi, Karnataka, Haryana, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Kerala are exploring doorstep delivery options through platforms like Swiggy and Zomato.

Arguments for Doorstep Delivery

• Revenue Generation: Excise taxes on alcohol are a significant revenue source for Central and State governments.
• Reduction in Drunk-Driving: Delivery could decrease drunk-driving incidents, which are a major cause of fatal road accidents.
• Safety for Women: Provides a safer, stigma-free option for women to access alcohol.

Arguments Against Doorstep Delivery

• Economic Costs: Alcohol-related costs, including health care and productivity losses, outweigh the benefits of revenue from sales.
• Increased Consumption: On-demand availability may lead to higher alcohol consumption and binge drinking.
• Uncertain Impact on Drunk-Driving: Other measures like sobriety checkpoints might be more effective.

Health and Social Implications

• Health Risks: Alcohol consumption is linked to cancers, liver disease, heart conditions, and mental health issues.
• Economic Burden: Alcohol-related costs could exceed ₹3 lakh crore by 2050, with excise taxes covering only a fraction of these losses.
• Domestic Violence: Increased alcohol use is associated with higher rates of domestic violence.

Policy Recommendations

• Public Health Measures: Restrict alcohol availability, increase taxes, enforce drunk-driving laws, and invest in treatment for alcohol-use disorders.
• Impact Monitoring: If implemented, monitor the effects of doorstep delivery on consumption and public health, adjusting policies based on evidence.

Conclusion

While doorstep delivery of alcohol may offer certain benefits, including revenue generation and potential reductions in drunk-driving, it poses significant risks. Careful consideration and monitoring are essential to ensure that any such policy does not exacerbate existing public health challenges.

CUSTOMS DUTY HIKE ON LABORATORY CHEMICALS: OVERVIEW AND IMPLICATIONS

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

The proposed hike in customs duty on imported laboratory chemicals, from 10% to 150%, faced significant opposition from the scientific community. The measure, initially intended to limit ethanol imports, was later reversed due to its adverse impact on research and diagnostics.

Definition and Importance

• Laboratory Chemicals: Defined by the Customs Department as chemicals imported in small quantities (≤500 grams or milliliters) for laboratory use, including oxidizers, acids, and gases.
• Role: Essential for experimental research and medical diagnostics. They are specialized and often expensive, requiring careful handling and precise importation.

Issue with the Duty Hike

• Duty Increase: The Budget proposed raising Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on these chemicals from 10% to 150%, significantly inflating costs.
• Cost Impact: A batch of chemicals costing ₹1,00,000 would rise to ₹2,50,000, and there was also a 25% hike on plastic components used in labs.
• Scientific Community’s Reaction: Scientists expressed concerns and sought clarification, suspecting the hike was a mistake. They contacted the Ministry of Science and Technology, although the issue fell under the Ministry of Finance and Commerce.

Need for Imported Chemicals

• Local Manufacturing Limitations: India’s chemical production is robust, but niche chemicals are less demanded locally and require significant investment.
• Replication of Experiments: Imported chemicals are crucial for replicating international research accurately.

Resolution

• Reason for Hike: The hike aimed to reduce ethanol imports misclassified as laboratory chemicals. Ethanol used in labs and ethanol for alcohol production are distinct, with the latter being produced locally.
• Revised Notification: Following backlash, the Finance Ministry reverted to the original duty rate but required additional documentation to confirm the chemicals are for laboratory use only.

Conclusion

The temporary duty hike caused significant disruption, but the issue has been partially resolved. It underscored the challenges of balancing customs regulations with the needs of scientific and medical research, highlighting the critical role of imported chemicals in maintaining research standards.

EVOLUTION OF TIMEKEEPING DEVICES

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: TIMES OF INDIA

Timekeeping has evolved significantly from ancient devices to modern atomic clocks, reflecting advancements in technology and precision. Early time-measuring instruments were rudimentary but laid the groundwork for sophisticated modern systems.

Early Timekeeping Devices:

Sundials and Water Clocks:

• Sundials: Utilized the position of the sun to indicate time.
• Water Clocks: Used the flow of water to measure time intervals.

Mechanical Clocks:

• 13th Century Innovations: Introduction of the verge escapement, crucial for early mechanical clocks.
• 15th-18th Centuries: Spring-driven clocks replaced weights with coiled springs, improving accuracy. The fusee mechanism ensured consistent force from the spring.
• Pendulum Clocks: Invented by Christiaan Huygens in the mid-17th century, using a pendulum to achieve precise timekeeping.

Impact on Navigation:

• Longitude Determination: Accurate clocks were essential for maritime navigation. John Harrison’s 1761 Marine Chronometer addressed challenges in determining longitude at sea.

Modern Timekeeping Technologies:

Electric Clocks:

• 19th Century: Replaced mechanical components with electric motors or batteries for enhanced efficiency.

Quartz Clocks:

• Operation: Utilize quartz crystals that oscillate when an electric current is applied, providing reliable and affordable timekeeping.
• Mechanism: The oscillations of the quartz crystal are converted into time measurements.

Atomic Clocks:

• Caesium Atomic Clocks: Use caesium-133 atoms to measure time with extreme precision, gaining or losing a second only once in 20 million years.
• Optical Clocks: Employ radiation in the optical range with atoms like strontium or ytterbium, offering even higher stability.

Future Developments:

Nuclear Clocks:

• Concept: Utilize atomic nuclei as resonators for potentially greater precision.
• Recent Advances: The Thorium-229 Nuclear Clock promises ultra-high precision with a frequency of 2,020 terahertz.

Conclusion:

Timekeeping technology has transitioned from simple mechanical devices to complex atomic and nuclear systems, continually improving accuracy and reliability. Future advancements in nuclear clocks may further enhance our ability to measure time with unprecedented precision.

SIT REPORT REVEALS MAJOR LAPSES IN TIGER DEATH INVESTIGATIONS IN MADHYA PRADESH

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) report has uncovered significant flaws in the investigation of 43 tiger deaths in Madhya Pradesh’s Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve and Shahdol Forest Circle between 2021 and 2023. The report highlights inadequate investigative efforts, insufficient action from authorities, and lapses in forensic procedures.

Post-Mortem and Medical Negligence:

• Lapses in Procedures: Many post-mortems were conducted by veterinarians lacking experience in wildlife, compromising the integrity of investigations.
• Sample Handling: Collection and sealing of samples were not performed by qualified officers, affecting evidence quality.

Specific Case Findings:

• May 14, 2021: A male tiger’s remains, missing 12 nails and vital organs, were inadequately investigated, leading to the premature release of suspects.
• August 29, 2021: A tigress found dead in a well was initially thought to have died from electrocution but was later identified as poaching due to missing body parts.
• January 28, 2022: A tigress with burn marks was initially misidentified as a victim of infighting; later determined to be electrocuted.
• September 15, 2023: An adult tiger with missing body parts was not thoroughly investigated; post-mortem suggested poaching.

Other Issues:

• Investigation Gaps: Reports pointed out the lack of scientific methods, failure to use dog squads, and inadequate evidence documentation.
• Missing Evidence: Crucial evidence like electric trip data and mobile forensics were often absent.

Recommendations

• Acknowledgment of Shortcomings: The acting Principal Chief Conservator of Forests recognized staff shortages and procedural flaws.
• Need for Improved Processes: Emphasis on enhancing investigative methods and addressing poaching.

Status of Tiger Deaths in India

• Overall Deaths: Maharashtra led with 52 deaths, followed by Madhya Pradesh (45), Uttarakhand (26), Tamil Nadu and Kerala (15 each), and Karnataka (13).
• Population Trends: India’s tiger population increased to 3,167 in 2022, from 2,967 in 2018.
• Conservation Challenges: Despite population growth, threats such as poaching, natural causes, and human-induced incidents continue to pose risks, underscoring the need for effective conservation strategies.

Conclusion

The SIT report underscores serious issues in the investigation of tiger deaths, stressing the necessity for robust and transparent processes to enhance wildlife protection and conservation efforts.

CORAL BLEACHING: IMPACT AND CONSERVATION EFFORTS

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: DOWN TO EARTH

Coral bleaching, particularly in Lakshadweep, reflects the detrimental effects of rising sea temperatures and pollution on marine ecosystems. Immediate and effective conservation strategies are essential to address and mitigate these challenges.

What is Coral Bleaching?

• Definition: Coral bleaching occurs when corals lose their vibrant colors due to stress factors, mainly elevated sea surface temperatures.
• Visual Effect: Corals appear white or pale as the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) within their tissues are expelled or die.
• Consequences: Prolonged bleaching can lead to coral death, loss of marine biodiversity, and disruption of reef ecosystems.

Factors Responsible for Coral Bleaching

• Global Climate Change: Rising sea surface temperatures due to global warming are the primary cause.
• Marine Heat Waves: Short-term spikes in sea temperatures exacerbate bleaching events.
• Pollution: Nutrient runoff, sedimentation, and pollutants stress coral reefs.
• Overfishing: Depletion of key reef species disrupts ecosystem balance.
• Ocean Acidification: Increased CO2 levels lower ocean pH, affecting coral health and growth.

Status of Coral Bleaching in India

• Recent Observations: Coral bleaching was reported in Lakshadweep in March 2024. Previous years (2020-2023) had no significant bleaching events.

Regional Focus:

• Lakshadweep: Crucial area for monitoring and restoration.
• Other Coastal Areas: Less frequent but potentially impactful events.

Conservation and Management Efforts

Regulatory Measures:

• Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Coral species are protected under Schedule-I.
• Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2019: Focuses on conserving Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs), including corals.

Government Initiatives:

• Coral Transplantation: Ongoing restoration activities in Lakshadweep.
• Integrated Island Management Plan: Provides strategies for coral reef protection.

Monitoring and Research:

• Zoological Survey of India (ZSI): Long Term Coral Reef Monitoring Program.
• Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS): Bleaching alerts and marine heat wave monitoring.
• Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI): Studies to enhance coral resilience.

Ways to Avoid Coral Bleaching

• Reduce Carbon Emissions: Implement policies to cut greenhouse gas emissions.
• Promote Renewable Energy: Transition to clean energy sources.
• Reduce Runoff: Manage agricultural and industrial waste.
• Waste Management: Ensure proper disposal and treatment of waste.
• Regulate Fishing: Enforce sustainable fishing practices.

Conclusion

Coral bleaching poses a serious threat to marine ecosystems, particularly in vulnerable areas like Lakshadweep. Ongoing research, regulatory measures, and conservation efforts are vital for mitigating these impacts and preserving coral reef health.