08-March-2025-Daily-Current-Affairs

HIMALAYAN TRAGEDY: THE IMPACT OF NATURAL DISASTERS

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

A recent avalanche in Mana village, Uttarakhand, trapped 23 workers at a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) construction site. While rescue operations saved many, eight workers lost their lives, highlighting the dangers of working in the Himalayas.

Key Issues and Analysis

The Avalanche and Rescue Operation

• The avalanche occurred at a BRO construction site in Mana village, located at 10,500 feet above sea level.
• 23 workers were trapped under snow and ice; eight lost their lives.
• A large-scale rescue operation was conducted by the Indian Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police.
• Heavy snowfall and blocked roads made the rescue challenging, requiring helicopter evacuations.
• Advanced technologies like drone-based detection were used to locate buried containers.

Historical Risks and Traditional Wisdom

• Avalanches are common in the Himalayan region, and local villagers traditionally migrate to lower altitudes in winter.
• The closure of the Badrinath temple in November marks the seasonal migration of residents to safer areas.
• Many of the trapped workers were migrants and may not have been fully aware of the avalanche risks.

The Need for Better Safety Measures

• Given the strategic importance of the region, infrastructure development will continue despite natural risks.
• Instead of only focusing on rescue efforts after disasters, proactive safety measures should be prioritized.
• Safer housing structures, inspired by bomb shelters and Antarctic research stations, should be designed for workers.
• Greater sensitivity is needed towards the working conditions of laborers in hazardous environments.

Conclusion

While avalanches cannot be entirely prevented, better safety measures can reduce casualties. The government must focus on improving worker protection in disaster-prone areas to minimize future tragedies.

INCLUSION IN PUBLIC SPACES – FROM FEAR TO FREEDOM

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

The issue of women’s safety and accessibility in public spaces has gained attention, especially on International Women’s Day, highlighting the need for gender-inclusive urban planning and societal change.

Challenges Faced by Women in Public Spaces

• Limited Presence: Women are significantly underrepresented in public spaces compared to men.
• Restricted Mobility: Many women avoid certain areas due to safety concerns, limiting their participation in public life.
• Social Conditioning: Women often regulate their behavior to conform to societal expectations, limiting their freedom.

Gendered Spatial Control

• Traditional Restrictions: Women are expected to remain in private spaces, reducing their visibility in public areas.
• Limited Independence: NFHS-4 data (2015-16) shows that only about half of Indian women travel alone for work, healthcare, or leisure.
• Workforce Participation: The PLFS 2023-24 report states that only 35.6% of women are part of the workforce, limiting their presence in public spaces.
• Purpose-Driven Mobility: Women often use public spaces only for essential activities, not for leisure.

Barriers to Safety and Inclusion

• Perceived Risk: Women face harassment and violence in public spaces, reinforcing restrictions on their mobility.
• Curated Safe Spaces: Many women prefer controlled environments like malls and cafes, avoiding open streets and public transport.
• Lack of Infrastructure: Poor street lighting, lack of toilets, and absence of safe seating areas discourage women from using public spaces freely.

Shifting the Narrative – Reclaiming Public Spaces

• Encouraging Leisure Activities: Women should be able to use public spaces freely, without needing a specific purpose.
• Community Support: Society must support women in reclaiming public spaces for recreation and socialization.
• Breaking Stereotypes: Normalizing women’s presence in open spaces can challenge existing norms.

Policy Recommendations for Inclusive Public Spaces

• Urban Planning Improvements: Well-lit streets and public areas to enhance safety. More accessible and hygienic public toilets for women.
• Stronger Legal Protections: Strict enforcement of laws against gender-based violence. Faster judicial processes to ensure justice for victims.
• Changing Social Attitudes: Awareness campaigns to normalize women’s unrestricted presence in public spaces. Encouraging conversations about gender inclusivity in urban design. Promoting women’s visibility in traditionally male-dominated spaces.

Conclusion

Achieving gender-inclusive public spaces requires a combination of legal, infrastructural, and cultural changes. By making small but impactful improvements, society can create a safer and more welcoming environment where women can move freely without fear.

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AN EQUITABLE FUTURE FOR WOMEN IN SCIENCE IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

Women in science face multiple challenges in India, from educational barriers to workplace discrimination. A recent study highlights the gender gap in STEM fields, stressing the need for stronger policies to retain and support women in science.

Need for Women’s Retention in STEM

• Boosts Innovation – A diverse workforce leads to better problem-solving and creativity.
• Encourages Future Generations – More women in science create role models for young girls.
• Promotes Equity – Ensuring fair opportunities strengthens the scientific community.

Challenges Faced by Women in Science

• Barriers in Education: Limited access to quality education for girls, especially in rural areas. Societal norms discourage women from pursuing science-related careers.
• Work-Life Balance Issues: Cultural expectations force women to prioritize family over career. Lack of flexible work arrangements and childcare support affects career growth.
• Gender Bias and Discrimination: Women face difficulties in securing research funding and promotions. Workplace harassment and exclusion from leadership roles hinder progress.
• High Dropout Rates: Many women leave STEM careers due to hostile work environments and lack of mentors. Transitioning from postdoctoral research to faculty positions is particularly difficult.

Gender Inequity in STEM: A Historical Perspective

• Matilda Effect – Women’s scientific contributions are often overshadowed by men.
• Leaky Pipeline – Many women drop out of STEM due to workplace challenges.
• Chutes and Ladders Model – Systemic barriers prevent women from advancing in their careers.

Current Scenario in India

• A 2020-21 survey across 98 institutions found only 17% women faculty members in STEM.
• Representation in top-ranked institutions is even lower, with minimal presence in senior roles.
• Women are often excluded from conferences and career-enhancing opportunities.

Steps to Improve Women’s Participation in Science

• Institutional Reforms: Implement flexible work policies and affordable childcare facilities. Encourage work-family integration to support women’s career growth.
• Visibility and Awareness: Highlight achievements of women scientists to challenge stereotypes. Address setbacks and gender bias through platforms like BiasWatchIndia.
• Career Support Initiatives: Remove age restrictions on grants and research opportunities. Strengthen mentorship networks and career re-entry programs. Increase leadership roles for senior women scientists.

Government Initiatives for Gender Equity in Science

• GATI (Gender Advancement for Transforming Institutions) – Launched by DST to create an inclusive STEM environment.
• WISE-KIRAN and Women Scientists Scheme (WOS) – Encourage women’s participation in research.
• BioCARe Programme – Supports women scientists returning after career breaks.
• ICMR Programs – Focus on women’s health and capacity building in STEM.

Conclusion

Ensuring equal opportunities for women in STEM is not just about fairness but also essential for scientific progress. Strengthening policies, creating inclusive workplaces, and encouraging mentorship can drive real change, making India a global leader in gender equity in science.

D-VOTERS IN ASSAM

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

Assam’s opposition has raised concerns over the situation of ‘Doubtful Voters’ (D-Voters) and demanded the closure of the state’s only detention centre, now termed a transit camp. There is also a demand to table the National Register of Citizens (NRC) report in the state assembly.

Who are D-Voters?

• D-Voters, or Doubtful Voters, are individuals in Assam whose citizenship status is uncertain.
• Their names were marked as ‘D’ in electoral rolls because they failed to prove their Indian nationality.
• Their cases are either pending before Foreigners Tribunals or they have been declared foreigners by the tribunals.

Background

• The concept of D-Voters was introduced by the Election Commission of India in 1997 to filter out suspected foreigners.
• These individuals are not allowed to vote in elections or contest for public office.
• The term ‘doubtful voter’ is not defined in the Citizenship Act, 1955, or the Citizenship Rules, 2003.

Legal Provisions and NRC Link

• The Citizenship Rules, 2003, framed under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2003, outline steps for preparing the National Population Register (NPR) and the National Register of Indian Citizens (NRIC).
• As per Section 4(4) of the Citizenship Rules, 2003, local registrars must mark individuals as ‘doubtful citizens’ in the Population Register if their citizenship is questionable.
• After verification, the Taluk or Sub-district Registrar of Citizenship gives the individual an opportunity to present their case before making a final decision.
• The Registrar has 90 days to complete the process and provide justification.

Process and Implications

• The marking of D-Voters is temporary, and a final decision must be made within a specific timeframe.
• If found to be foreign nationals or illegal immigrants, they may face deportation or be sent to detention centres.
• Those who prove their citizenship can have their ‘D’ status removed and reclaim their voting rights.
• D-Voters can also apply for inclusion in the NRC, but they must first receive clearance from the Foreigners Tribunals.

Concerns and Challenges

• Human Rights Concerns: Critics argue that many genuine Indian citizens, including women and minorities, are wrongly labeled as D-Voters due to documentation issues.
• Legal Complexity: The absence of a clear legal definition of ‘D-Voter’ creates ambiguity and legal challenges.
• Detention and Uncertainty: People marked as D-Voters face social and economic hardships, with some being placed in detention centres.
• Political Debate: The issue remains politically sensitive, especially with demands to re-examine the NRC process in Assam.

Way Forward

• Transparent and Fair Verification: A clear, time-bound process for resolving citizenship disputes is needed.
• Legal Clarity: The government should define ‘D-Voter’ legally and provide guidelines for handling such cases.
• Humanitarian Approach: Ensuring that genuine citizens are not wrongly categorized and subjected to detention.
• Reforms in NRC and Foreigners Tribunals: Improving legal and administrative mechanisms to reduce errors in citizenship verification.

The issue of D-Voters in Assam remains a major concern, affecting thousands of people. Addressing this requires legal clarity, a fair verification process, and a humanitarian approach to prevent injustice.

BOOSTING VALUE ADDITION IN SPICES TO ACHIEVE $10 BILLION EXPORT TARGET BY 2030

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The World Spice Organisation (WSO) has highlighted that India, despite being the largest producer and exporter of spices, has a low share in the global seasoning market. To achieve the $10 billion export target by 2030, the country needs to increase value addition in spice exports.

India’s Current Position in the Global Spice Market

• India is the largest producer and exporter of spices globally.
• It exports 1.5 million tonnes of spices worth $4.5 billion, accounting for 25% of the global market.
• However, India’s share in the $14 billion global seasoning market is only 0.7%, while China holds 12% and the U.S. 11%.

Need for Value Addition in Spice Exports

• Currently, only 48% of India’s spice exports are value-added products, while the rest are exported as whole spices.
• To meet the Spices Board of India’s target of $10 billion exports by 2030, the share of value-added spices must increase to 70%.
• Seasoning and processed spices have higher demand and profitability in global markets.

Expanding into Nutraceutical and Pharmaceutical Sectors

• Spices have medicinal and nutritional value, making them useful for the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.
• Many spices are already used in Ayurveda and other traditional medicines.
• Focusing on new uses of spices can open new export opportunities and improve farmers’ earnings.

Challenges in Spice Production and Competition

• 85% of India’s spices are consumed domestically, leaving a smaller share for exports.
• Other countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, Brazil, and China are strong competitors in the global spice market.
• Africa has also started producing spices, adding to global competition.

Expanding Spice Production in India

• Apart from traditional spice-growing states, Odisha, Jharkhand, and the North East are emerging as major spice producers.
• India’s 15 agro-climatic zones allow it to grow a diverse range of spices across different states.
• Increasing domestic production is necessary to enhance exports and market share.

Ensuring Quality and Sustainability in Spice Farming

• Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) are being trained to improve quality, sustainability, and pesticide control in spice cultivation.
• Farmers are educated on integrated pest management, water conservation, and hygiene practices in spice processing and packaging.
• Reducing chemical use in spice farming will help meet global food safety standards.

Need for Climate-Resistant and High-Yield Spice Varieties

• Developing high-yielding and climate-resistant spice varieties is crucial to increasing production and export potential.
• Organisations like the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and National Research Centre on Seed Spices are working on improving spice crops.

Way Forward

• Increase value-added spice exports to improve India’s global market share.
• Explore pharmaceutical and nutraceutical uses of spices to diversify revenue sources.
• Enhance spice production in new regions while ensuring quality and sustainability.
• Develop cost-effective, high-quality, and climate-resistant spice varieties to maintain competitiveness.

By focusing on value addition, innovation, and quality improvement, India can increase its spice exports and achieve the $10 billion target by 2030.

BANGUS VALLEY: A NEW ECOTOURISM DESTINATION

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

The Jammu and Kashmir government has introduced new regulations for Bangus Valley to promote it as an ecotourism destination. The initiative aims to preserve its ecology while boosting sustainable tourism.

About Bangus Valley

• Bangus Valley is located in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, within the Handwara sub-division.
• It is situated at an altitude of around 10,000 feet above sea level.
• The valley covers an estimated 300 sq. km and features diverse ecosystems.

Geographical Features

• Bodh Bangus (Big Bangus): The main valley, shaped like an elongated bowl, stretches along an east-west axis.
• Lokut Bangus (Small Bangus): Lies northeast of Bodh Bangus and shares similar geographical traits.
• Both valleys contain green meadows, low-lying hills, and dense coniferous forests (budloo).
• A stream flows through the valleys, adding to their scenic beauty.

Surrounding Landmarks

• East: Rajwar and Mawar.
• West: Shamasbury and Dajlungun Mountains.
• North: Chowkibal and Karnah Guli.

Significance of the Trans-Himalayan Region

• Bangus Valley lies within the Trans-Himalayan zone, a distinct high-altitude ecosystem.
• The Trans-Himalayas (Tibetan Himalayas) extend over 1,600 km, north of the Great Himalayas.
• Major ranges include Zanskar, Ladakh, Kailash, and Karakoram.
• This region consists of cold deserts, high-altitude passes, and arid plateaus, forming a natural boundary between India and the Tibetan Plateau.

Way Forward

Sustainable tourism practices should be adopted to protect Bangus Valley’s biodiversity. Improved connectivity and eco-friendly infrastructure can enhance tourism while preserving its natural beauty.

INDIA-US TRADE RELATIONS: TARIFF REDUCTION TALKS

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

US President Donald Trump stated that India has agreed to significantly reduce its tariffs on American products. This follows ongoing negotiations between both countries to enhance trade ties under a proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).

India’s Tariff Reduction Plans

• India is revising its trade policies to improve economic relations with the US.
• Plans include reducing tariffs and non-tariff barriers on several key imports.
• The move is aimed at expanding bilateral trade, increasing market access, and improving supply chain integration.

Statements from Leaders

• Trump alleged that India imposes high tariffs, restricting American businesses from entering the Indian market.
• He credited the exposure of these trade barriers for India’s willingness to lower tariffs.
• India’s Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that a multi-sector trade deal is under discussion.

Recent Developments in India-US Trade

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the US in February 2025 and met Trump to discuss trade expansion.
• Both nations aim to reach an ambitious $500 billion annual trade target by 2030.
• India’s 2025-26 Union Budget announced lower tariffs on bourbon whiskey, wines, and electric vehicles (EVs), which is seen as an effort to accommodate US interests.
• The US has urged India to increase purchases of American oil, gas, and defense equipment to reduce the $45 billion trade deficit in India’s favor.

Concerns and Challenges

• The US continues to demand fair trade terms, placing India in a complex negotiating position.
• India’s domestic industries could face competition from American imports due to reduced tariffs.
• The success of the Bilateral Trade Agreement depends on mutual concessions and a balanced approach to economic policies.

What Are Tariffs?

Tariffs are taxes or duties imposed by a government on imported or exported goods. They are used to regulate trade, protect domestic industries, and generate revenue.

Based on Purpose

• Protective Tariff: Imposed to shield domestic industries from foreign competition by making imported goods costlier.
• Revenue Tariff: Aimed at generating income for the government rather than restricting imports.
• Anti-Dumping Tariff: Levied on imports sold below market price to prevent unfair trade practices.
• Countervailing Duty (CVD): A tax imposed on subsidized imports to ensure a level playing field for domestic producers.
• Retaliatory Tariff: Imposed as a response to another country’s tariffs on domestic goods.

Way Forward

India and the US should focus on equitable trade agreements that protect domestic industries while boosting trade. Strengthening supply chain integration can lead to long-term economic benefits for both nations.

WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

On Women’s Day 2025, discussions have highlighted how governance has transformed women from beneficiaries of government schemes into leaders, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers.

PM Modi’s Vision for Women’s Empowerment

• Women are seen as leaders, not just beneficiaries.
• Focus on women-led development in governance and policies.
• Encouragement of women’s political participation and leadership.

Political Representation and Leadership

• Ensured 30% reservation for women in party structures.
• Encouraged women’s leadership beyond symbolic roles.
• Actively promoted women mayors, standing committee chairs, and leaders in governance.
• Opposed the “sarpanch pati” culture, ensuring women sarpanches lead independently.

Key Initiatives for Women’s Empowerment

• Beti Bachao Beti Padhao – Promotes girls’ education and reduces gender discrimination.
• Ujjwala Yojana – Over 10 crore LPG connections provided, reducing health hazards.
• Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana – Encourages financial security for girls.
• Stand-Up India & Lakhpati Didi Programme – Supports women entrepreneurs.
• Mission Mangalam – Empowers self-help groups for financial independence.
• Swachh Bharat Abhiyan – Focused on building toilets, ensuring dignity for women.
• Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam – Reserved one-third of seats for women in legislatures.

Conclusion

PM Modi’s policies have transformed women’s roles in society, ensuring they become active participants in decision-making, business, and governance. Women’s empowerment remains a crucial pillar of India’s progress towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

ANTARCTIC CIRCUMPOLAR CURRENT (ACC) SLOWDOWN

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: THE HINDU

A recent study has found that the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC), the world’s strongest ocean current, is slowing down due to increased freshwater from melting Antarctic ice sheets.

About Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC)

• The ACC is the most powerful ocean current on Earth, flowing from west to east around Antarctica.
• It is the only current that connects the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
• The ACC is five times stronger than the Gulf Stream and carries water over 100 times the volume of the Amazon River.
• It forms a boundary between the Southern Ocean and other oceans near the 60° S latitude.
• The current plays a vital role in Earth’s climate, distributing heat, water, and nutrients globally.
• It also serves as a natural barrier, preventing non-native species from entering Antarctica’s waters.

Issue: Impact of Ice Melt on ACC

• Climate change is causing Antarctic ice sheets to melt rapidly, adding huge amounts of freshwater into the ocean.
• This reduces the density of seawater, affecting the circulation speed of the ACC.

Potential Impacts of ACC Slowdown

• Climate Effects: The ACC regulates global temperatures; its slowdown could cause extreme weather changes worldwide.
• Disruption in Marine Ecosystems: Changes in ocean currents impact nutrient flow, affecting marine biodiversity and fish populations.
• Impact on Carbon Sequestration: The ocean’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide may weaken, leading to faster global warming.

Conclusion

The ACC is crucial for climate balance and marine life. Its slowdown due to melting ice poses a major environmental threat, requiring urgent global action to address climate change.