11-February-2025-Daily-Current-Affairs

ANTI-MAOIST OPERATIONS IN CHHATTISGARH – A STRATEGIC APPROACH

TOPIC: (GS3) SECURITY: THE HINDU

Chhattisgarh’s government has intensified efforts to weaken Maoist insurgency through coordinated operations with central forces. While security actions have reduced Maoist influence, ensuring civilian safety and socio-economic development remains essential.

Current Situation of Anti-Maoist Operations

Recent Crackdown in Bijapur

• Security forces launched a major offensive in Indravati National Park, Bijapur district.
• 31 insurgents were killed using police camps as operational bases.
• These efforts have reduced Maoist movement in their traditional strongholds, including Abujhmarh and South Bastar.

Government’s Strategy and Achievements

• Since December 2023, the Vishnu Deo Sai government has prioritized anti-Maoist operations.

• 280 insurgents killed, over 1,000 arrested, and 925 surrendered.
• Improved security coordination between Chhattisgarh Police, CRPF, BSF, and ITBP.

• The state is now better equipped with trained forces and strategic operations.

Declining Maoist Influence

• Maoist activities have declined significantly over the last 15 years.
• Previously, over 220 districts were affected; now, only around 40 districts report Maoist violence.
• Maoist presence has weakened in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Bihar, with South Chhattisgarh being their remaining stronghold.

Reasons for Maoist Decline

• Harsh geography and economic challenges in South Chhattisgarh initially helped Maoists gain influence.
• However, their violent methods and refusal to engage with democratic institutions have led to reduced public support.
• Government welfare programs have further discouraged local participation in insurgency.

Lessons from the Past

• Chhattisgarh initially relied on civilian militias like Salwa Judum, which led to unintended consequences.
• Later, a policy shift focused on strengthening security forces and community outreach, proving more effective.

The Road Ahead

• The government must maintain security pressure while ensuring civilians are protected.
• Balanced development policies are needed to address socio-economic grievances that fuel Maoist recruitment.
• Caution is crucial—excessive force without safeguarding civilians may give Maoists a chance to regain public sympathy.

Conclusion

Chhattisgarh’s security efforts have significantly weakened Maoist influence, but long-term peace requires a combination of military action, good governance, and development initiatives. The government must stay vigilant while ensuring civilians remain safe in the process.

MARKET INTERVENTION SCHEME (MIS) – REVISED GUIDELINES

TOPIC: (GS3) AGRICULTURE: PIB

The Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) is a government initiative under the PM-AASHA scheme to support farmers by procuring perishable crops like tomatoes, onions, and potatoes when prices drop significantly. The government has recently revised its guidelines to improve implementation and increase procurement limits.

Key Changes in MIS Guidelines

Integration with PM-AASHA

• The Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) is now a part of PM-AASHA, the umbrella scheme for ensuring fair prices to farmers.
• This integration aims to strengthen procurement mechanisms for perishable crops.

Eligibility for Implementation

• MIS will be activated only when market prices drop by at least 10% compared to the previous normal season.
• This ensures that procurement is undertaken during distress situations, protecting farmers from financial losses.

Increase in Procurement Limit

• The procurement limit under MIS has been raised from 20% to 25% of total production.
• This expansion allows a greater quantity of perishable crops to be procured, benefiting more farmers.

Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Option

• States now have the option to transfer the price difference directly to farmers’ bank accounts instead of physically procuring crops.
• This helps in reducing storage and logistical challenges while ensuring farmers receive fair compensation.

Enhanced Role of Agencies

Apart from NAFED (National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation) and NCCF (National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation), additional agencies like:

• Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
• Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs)
• State-nominated agencies
• Other Central Nodal Agencies

These agencies will now be involved in the procurement, storage, and transportation of crops to consuming states.

Financial Support for Transportation and Storage

• The government will reimburse costs for transporting crops from producing states to consuming states where there is a price gap.
• Example: The NCCF has been approved to transport 1,000 metric tonnes (MT) of tomatoes from Madhya Pradesh to Delhi.
• This aims to stabilize prices across different regions and ensure better market access for farmers.

Conclusion

The revised Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) guidelines provide greater flexibility and financial support to farmers by improving procurement limits, transportation subsidies, and direct benefit transfers. These changes aim to reduce distress sales, enhance price stability, and safeguard farmers’ incomes in times of price fluctuations.

Practice Question:

1. Consider the following statements regarding Minimum Support Price (MSP) and Market Intervention Scheme (MIS):

1. MSP is announced for both food and non-food crops, whereas MIS is primarily for perishable agricultural produce.
2. Under MSP, the government procures crops through agencies like the Food Corporation of India (FCI), while MIS is implemented through state governments.
3. Both MSP and MIS guarantee a fixed price for farmers’ produce, regardless of market fluctuations.

Which of the above statements are correct?

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

• MSP is announced for various crops, including food grains, pulses, and oilseeds, while MIS mainly supports perishable crops like fruits and vegetables.
• MSP procurement is conducted through central agencies like FCI, whereas MIS is implemented through state governments with central approval.
• MIS does not guarantee a fixed price like MSP; it operates on a case-by-case basis when market prices crash.

INDIA AS A BRIDGE BETWEEN THE GLOBAL NORTH AND SOUTH

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

India is positioning itself as a key link between developed and developing nations. It aims to lead global governance reforms while strengthening ties with both traditional allies and emerging economies.

India’s Renewed Focus on the Global South

• India is actively advocating for developing nations on global platforms.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India’s role in amplifying the Global South’s voice at the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention and the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit 2024.
• Unlike the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), India is not solely focused on decolonization but is also strengthening partnerships with Western countries like the U.S. and Europe.

The China Factor and Strategic Competition

• India is increasing its influence in Africa, where China already has a strong presence through investments.
• Many industrialized nations see India as a strategic counter to China’s expanding influence.
• The Quad alliance (India, U.S., Japan, and Australia) is an example of India’s role in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.
• However, India’s efforts are not just about countering China but also about establishing itself as an independent global power.

Key Steps India Must Take

Promoting a New Development Model

• India must focus on equal partnerships rather than imposing its own strategies on other developing nations.
• The Global Development Compact, launched by India, highlights its own development experiences. However, India should also learn from the experiences of other Global South nations.
• Instead of a donor-recipient model, India should engage in mutual cooperation, ensuring a two-way exchange of knowledge.

A More People-Centric Development Approach

• India has promoted Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) to encourage sustainable lifestyles.
• A broader human-centric approach should focus on skill development, entrepreneurship, and capacity building.
• Programs like Skill India and women’s entrepreneurship initiatives can serve as models for Global South nations looking to strengthen their domestic industries.
• India’s Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program provides short-term training, but long-term capacity-building programs will be more beneficial.

Strengthening Global Governance and Institutional Frameworks

• India played a crucial role in the African Union’s inclusion in the G-20 (2023), showcasing its commitment to inclusive governance.
• While leveraging existing institutions (like the UN), India should develop its own robust systems for international cooperation.
• Trilateral partnerships with experienced countries like Germany and France can help India refine its approach.
• India must establish standardized norms and frameworks for global engagement.

The Way Forward

• India must listen to the needs of developing nations rather than just advocating for them.
• Just as India led NAM by offering an alternative path for developing nations, it must now build a new, more inclusive international order.
• By ensuring genuine partnerships and institutional growth, India can solidify its role as a bridge between the Global North and South.

REGULATING LIVE-IN RELATIONSHIPS

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

The recently implemented Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code (UCC) mandates compulsory registration of opposite-sex live-in relationships and criminalizes unregistered cohabitation. While aiming to provide legal protection, some provisions raise concerns regarding personal freedom and privacy.

Key Aspects of UCC on Live-in Relationships

Positive Aspects of the Law

• Protection of Children’s Rights: The UCC considers children born in live-in relationships as legitimate, improving their legal status.
• Maintenance for Abandoned Partners: It grants deserted partners (especially women) the right to seek maintenance, ensuring financial security.
• Legal Clarity: It formalizes live-in relationships, providing a legal framework to address disputes.

Issues with the Law

Gaps in Maintenance Provision

• Maintenance is granted only in cases of desertion, but not when a relationship is formally ended.
• A simple termination statement can end the relationship, leaving one partner vulnerable.
• Same-sex relationships are excluded from legal protection.

Vague Definition of Live-in Relationships

• The law defines live-in relationships as those “in the nature of marriage,” which does not apply to all such relationships.
• Registration is required within a month, but most live-in relationships do not have a clear starting date.
• Casual relationships may be forced into legal registration, which is unnecessary.

Violation of Personal Rights

Impact on Sexual Autonomy

• The Supreme Court in Shakti Vahini v. Union of India (2018) upheld an adult’s right to make personal choices in relationships.
• The UCC requires parental notification if a partner is under 21 years, violating privacy and increasing the risk of honor-based violence.

Increased State Surveillance

• The law mandates reporting of all registered live-in relationships to the police, treating them as law-and-order concerns.
• Failure to register within a month is criminalized, leading to imprisonment or fines, which is excessive regulation.

Misplaced Focus on Regulation

• In many countries, live-in relationship registration is meant to extend benefits and legal safeguards.
• However, Uttarakhand’s UCC sees it as a problem to control rather than an area needing protection.
• This approach limits personal freedoms and strengthens state control over individual choices.

Conclusion

While aiming to protect vulnerable partners, the law intrudes on personal freedoms, privacy, and autonomy. A more balanced approach, focusing on rights rather than strict control, would be more beneficial.

Practice Question:

1. Which of the following statements about the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is/are correct?

1. The Uniform Civil Code aims to replace personal laws based on the scriptures and customs of various religions with a common law applicable to all citizens.
2. The implementation of UCC is a Directive Principle of State Policy under Article 44 of the Indian Constitution.
3. The implementation of UCC has been mandatory for the Government of India under the Constitution of India.
4. The debate on UCC has mainly focused on gender equality and secularism.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

• The Uniform Civil Code seeks to create a common set of laws for all citizens, irrespective of religion, for matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, etc.
• Article 44 of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) encourages the State to secure a Uniform Civil Code for the citizens of India.
• The implementation of UCC is not mandatory but remains a Directive Principle of State Policy, which provides guidance to the State to bring about reforms but does not mandate immediate enforcement.
• The debate on UCC primarily revolves around the issues of gender equality, secularism, and the protection of individual rights, particularly in the context of personal laws.

INDIA’S POSITION IN THE GLOBAL AI LANDSCAPE: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Paris AI Action Summit has brought global attention to artificial intelligence (AI), with India’s approach to AI development under scrutiny. The success of China’s DeepSeek highlights the potential for innovation without massive investments, raising questions about how India can shape its AI future.

Lessons from DeepSeek’s Success

• Resource-Efficient AI Models: DeepSeek’s success proves that AI development does not require excessive investment in data centers.
• Innovation over Copying: Unlike earlier Chinese strategies of replicating US technology, DeepSeek prioritized original research.
• Challenge to US Dominance: The startup’s AI chatbot rivaled top Western models, questioning assumptions about AI development.

India’s Current Position in AI

• Limited Global Tech Presence: India has not produced global giants like Google or Apple.
• Strength in Fintech: UPI’s international recognition is a significant achievement, but AI innovation remains a challenge.
• Lack of AI Research Ecosystem: Insufficient investment in research and infrastructure hinders AI growth.

Key Steps for India’s AI Growth

1. Developing a Strong AI Ecosystem

• Long-Term Strategy: India needs a structured AI-first approach with a focus on self-reliant technology.
• Indigenous AI Development: Relying on foreign AI models will limit India’s technological progress.
• Investment in Research: Universities, government institutions, and private players must collaborate to create AI research hubs.

Identifying Key Sectors for AI Integration

• Sector-Based Prioritization: India must pinpoint industries where AI can be most impactful.
• Gradual Implementation: Setting smaller, achievable AI goals will ensure steady progress.

Leveraging Geopolitical Advantages

• Strategic Alliances: Unlike China, India has the opportunity to collaborate closely with the US and Europe.
• Semiconductor Security: Strengthening partnerships can ensure a stable supply chain for AI hardware.
• Joint Ventures (JVs): Partnering with Western firms can accelerate AI development while maintaining local expertise.

Ensuring Responsible AI Development

• Ethical AI Policies: India must help shape global AI regulations to prevent misuse.
• Open-Source AI Leadership: Developing open AI models can make AI more accessible and cost-effective.

Conclusion

India has the potential to be a global AI leader if it prioritizes research, fosters talent, and leverages strategic alliances. A long-term vision, combined with responsible AI policies, can help India compete with global tech giants.

SANCTIONS ON INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: INDIAN EXPRESS

US President Donald Trump has imposed sanctions on officials of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in response to the court’s arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The move has sparked global debate about the ICC’s role and jurisdiction.

What is the International Criminal Court (ICC)?

• Established in 2002 under the Rome Statute to prosecute individuals for war crimes, genocide, crimes against humanity, and aggression.
• Functions when national courts are unwilling or unable to conduct fair trials.
• Has 125 member states but lacks support from countries like the US, Russia, China, and Israel.
• Based in The Hague, Netherlands with a €195 million ($202 million) budget for 2025.

Current ICC Investigations

Conducts investigations into global conflict zones, including:

• Palestinian territories (Gaza conflict)
• Ukraine (Russian invasion)
• African nations (Uganda, DR Congo, Kenya)
• Latin America (Venezuela)
• Asia (Myanmar, the Philippines)

Has handled 32 cases and issued over 60 arrest warrants.

ICC Convictions and Arrest Warrants

• Convictions: Only 11 people convicted, with six for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
• Sentences: Range from 9 to 30 years; life imprisonment is the maximum.

High-profile arrest warrants:

• Benjamin Netanyahu & Yoav Gallant (Israel) – Accused of war crimes in Gaza.
• Mohammed Deif (Hamas leader) – Charged with murder, rape, hostage-taking during the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.
• Vladimir Putin (Russia) – Accused of deporting Ukrainian children.
• Senior Afghan and Myanmar leaders – Awaiting judge approval.

Why Did the US Impose Sanctions?

• The US opposes the ICC investigating American citizens or its allies like Israel.
• Claims the court is biased and politically motivated.
• The US, Israel, Russia, and China reject ICC jurisdiction over their affairs.

Conclusion

The ICC plays a key role in prosecuting serious crimes globally, but its jurisdiction and impartiality remain controversial. The US sanctions highlight tensions between international law and national interests.

Practice Question:

1. Which of the following statements accurately differentiate between the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ)?

1. The ICC is responsible for prosecuting individuals for war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity, while the ICJ settles disputes between states and gives advisory opinions on legal questions.
2. The ICC is a part of the United Nations system, while the ICJ is an independent body established by the Geneva Conventions.
3. The ICC can issue binding rulings on states, whereas the ICJ has the authority to prosecute individuals for international crimes.
4. The ICC was established by the Rome Statute, while the ICJ was created under the Charter of the United Nations.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

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

Answer: D

Explanation:

• The ICC prosecutes individuals for international crimes such as war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity, while the ICJ settles disputes between states and gives advisory opinions.
• While the ICJ is part of the United Nations system, the ICC is an independent international court established by the Rome Statute, not by the UN.
• The ICJ can issue binding rulings between states, but it does not prosecute individuals for crimes. Only the ICC has the authority to prosecute individuals for international crimes.
• The ICC was established by the Rome Statute, and the ICJ was created under the Charter of the United Nations.

COOK ISLANDS AND ITS RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

The Cook Islands, a self-governing Pacific nation in free association with New Zealand, is currently in the spotlight due to its planned cooperation agreement with China, raising concerns from New Zealand.

About Cook Islands

Location and Geography:

• Situated in the South Pacific Ocean, between Tonga (west) and French Polynesia (east).
• Comprises 15 islands, divided into northern and southern groups.

Island Groups:

Northern Group:

• Includes Manihiki, Nassau, Penrhyn, Pukapuka, Rakahanga, and Suwarrow.
• Made up of low-lying coral atolls, sparsely populated with white sandy beaches.

Southern Group:

• Includes Rarotonga, Aitutaki, Atiu, Mangaia, Manuae, Mauke, Mitiaro, Palmerston, and Takutea.
• These islands are volcanic, larger, and more densely populated.

Key Features:

• Rarotonga Island is the largest and most populated.
• Highest peak: Te Manga (652m), located on Rarotonga.

Political Status:

• A self-governing nation but has a “free association” agreement with New Zealand.
• New Zealand provides diplomatic and defense support, while the Cook Islands manages its own internal affairs.

Capital and Population:

• Capital: Avarua, located on Rarotonga Island.
• Population: Mostly concentrated in Rarotonga.

Recent Issue:

• New Zealand expressed concern over the Cook Islands’ planned cooperation agreement with China, fearing geopolitical implications.

KASHMIR HAND-KNOTTED CARPET AND ITS NEW GI LOGO

TOPIC: (GS1) CULTURE: THE HINDU

The Kashmir hand-knotted carpet, a centuries-old traditional craft, has been granted a new Geographical Indication (GI) logo by the Geographical Indications Registry, Chennai to preserve its uniqueness.

About Kashmir Hand-Knotted Carpet

Historical Background:

• Locally called “Kal baffi,” the art of hand-knotting carpets in Kashmir dates back to the 15th century.
• It is believed that Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin brought Persian and Central Asian carpet weavers to Kashmir to train local artisans.

Weaving Process:

• The weaving loom consists of two wooden beams, one in front of the weaver and one behind, with warp threads stretched between them.
• Unlike other woven rugs, Kashmir carpets are made by tying short yarn lengths onto warp threads to create the pile, forming what is known as “knots” (actually loops).

Types of Knots Used in Kashmir Carpets:

• Farsi Baff
• Persian Sehna (Sinneh) Knot

• Simple tools like wooden or metal combs are used to tighten knots, and short scissors are used to trim the carpet evenly after completion.

Other GI-Tagged Kashmiri Crafts:

Besides hand-knotted carpets, six other Kashmiri crafts have received Geographical Indication (GI) status:

• Papier Mache
• Kashmir Pashmina
• Kani Weaving
• Sozni Embroidery
• Khatamband (Wood Panel Art)
• Walnut Wood Carving