13-August-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

DISINFORMATION, AI AND ‘CYBER CHAKRAVYUH’

TOPIC: (GS3) SECURITY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

The year 2024 has seen a surge in security concerns worldwide, particularly with the increasing threats posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI), disinformation, and cyber-attacks. These developments have raised alarms about the safety of critical events and infrastructure.

Emerging Security Threats:

AI and Disinformation:

• AI, including Generative AI and Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), has amplified the spread of disinformation, making it easier to create and distribute deep fakes.
• The Taiwan elections in January 2024 saw widespread disinformation attributed to AI, highlighting the new challenges in distinguishing reality from fabricated content.

Cyber Threats:

• Cyber-attacks have evolved, targeting critical infrastructure like telecommunications and power grids. The Ukraine conflict illustrates the destructive potential of AI-enabled cyber warfare.
• Notable cyber incidents include the CrowdStrike outage caused by a software glitch, providing a glimpse of the disruption possible with cyber-attacks.

Historical Context of Cyber Attacks:

Past Cyber Incidents:

• The WannaCry ransomware attack (2017) affected 230,000 computers in 150 countries.
• The Stuxnet attack (2010) targeted Iran’s nuclear program, showcasing the potential for state-sponsored cyber warfare.

Growing Digital Threats:

• Cyber frauds like phishing, identity theft, and spamming have become widespread, threatening individuals and businesses alike.
• Private institutions often lag in implementing adequate cybersecurity measures, making them vulnerable to attacks.

CYBER THREATS Cybersecurity threats refer to malicious activities aimed at damaging, stealing, or disrupting digital data and systems. These threats target information technology assets, computer networks, and sensitive data, posing significant risks to both individuals and organizations. Types of Cyber Threats ·       Malware: Malicious software that corrupts data or takes control of a system. ·       Spyware: A type of malware that hides on devices, stealing sensitive information like bank details and passwords. ·       Phishing Attacks: Tactics used by cybercriminals to trick individuals into providing personal and financial information. ·       Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attacks: These attacks overwhelm networks with traffic, preventing legitimate access. ·       Ransomware: Malware that locks a system or data until a ransom is paid. ·       Trojans: Malicious programs that create backdoors in systems for unauthorized access. Challenges in Cybersecurity ·       Increasing Internet Use: The growing use of technology and the internet has expanded the potential for cyber threats. ·       Proliferation of IoT Devices: Many Internet of Things (IoT) devices lack robust security, making them vulnerable. ·       Inherent Vulnerabilities: Cyberspace has weaknesses that cannot be entirely eliminated. ·       Advancing Attack Technology: Cyber attack methods often evolve faster than defense mechanisms. ·       Awareness Deficiency: There is a lack of public awareness about cybersecurity. ·       Shortage of Specialists: The demand for cybersecurity experts exceeds the supply. Government Initiatives in India ·       National Cyber Security Policy 2013: Aims to create a secure cyber ecosystem and strengthen the regulatory framework. ·       CERT-In: The National Computer Emergency Response Team coordinates cyber security efforts and crisis management. ·       Cyber Surakshit Bharat Initiative: Launched in 2018 to raise awareness and build cybersecurity capacity within government departments. ·       National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre (NCCC): Established in 2017 to monitor internet traffic and detect real-time cyber threats. ·       Information Security Education and Awareness (ISEA): Promotes awareness, research, education, and training in information security.

Conclusion:

Addressing these digital threats requires coordinated efforts, greater awareness, and robust defences, particularly in democracies, to safeguard against the new wave of AI and cyber threats.

THE TOP COURT AS CUSTODIAN OF LIBERTIES

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

The Supreme Court of India plays a vital role as the protector of individual liberties, as demonstrated in the case of former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia.

Custodian of Liberties:

• The Supreme Court granted bail to Manish Sisodia, emphasizing its role in upholding constitutionalism and the rule of law, with liberty being a core component.
• The Court cited past rulings, reaffirming the principle that “bail is the rule, jail is the exception,” and emphasized the right to a fair and speedy trial under Article 21.

Concerns About Procedural Delays:

• The Court acknowledged that the extensive evidence and numerous witnesses could lead to prolonged trials, causing undue incarceration without resolution.
• The Court criticized the oppressive use of penal laws, particularly under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), where out of over 5,000 cases in the last decade, only 40 led to convictions.

REASONS FOR HIGH PENDENCY OF CASES IN INDIAN JUDICIARY ·       Shortage of Judges: Inadequate number of judges to handle the volume of cases. ·       Lack of Infrastructure: Insufficient resources and facilities in many courts. ·       Complexity of Cases: Complex cases require significant time and resources.Increases the duration of proceedings. ·       Procedural Delays: Delays due to procedural issues such as locating witnesses or obtaining evidence. ·       Weak Enforcement of Court Orders: Non-enforcement of court orders causes further delays. Leads to additional legal proceedings and backlog. ·       Increased Legal Awareness: Rise in legal awareness leads to more cases being filed. ·       Mechanisms like Public Interest Litigation (PIL) increase the volume of cases. Impact of Judicial Pendency on the Justice Delivery System ·       Delays in Administration of Justice: Extended delays result in cases taking years or decades to resolve. ·       Negative Impact on Justice Quality: Judges may not fully consider all aspects of a case due to time constraints. ·       Potential for less informed decisions. ·       Burden on the Court System ·       Overburdened courts struggle to handle cases promptly. ·       Reduces efficiency in the judicial process. ·       Loss of Faith in the Legal System ·       Financial Burden on Litigants Steps Taken to Reduce Case Pendency ·       Virtual Court System: Conducts court proceedings through videoconferencing. ·       e-Courts Portal: Comprehensive platform for stakeholders including litigants and government agencies. ·       E-Filing: Allows electronic submission of court cases. ·       e-Payment of Court Fees and Fines: Facilitates online payments for court-related transactions. ·       Increase the Number of Judges: Recommended by various bodies to reduce backlog. ·       Expand Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Methods: Methods like mediation and arbitration resolve disputes efficiently.

Conclusion:

The Supreme Court’s decision to grant bail highlights its commitment to protecting civil liberties. However, the judgment also raises concerns about the fairness of detaining individuals based on prosecutorial timelines, emphasizing the need for justice to be anchored in inalienable rights, not procedural delays.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Which of the following statements accurately describes the Supreme Court of India?
2. The Supreme Court of India is the highest court of appeal and also has original jurisdiction in disputes between states and the central government.
3. The Supreme Court’s decisions are binding on all courts within the territory of India.
4. The Chief Justice of India is appointed by the President of India based on a recommendation from the Prime Minister.

Choose the correct answer from the options below:

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

ANSWER: A

EXPLANATION:

The Supreme Court of India is the highest court of appeal and has original jurisdiction in disputes between states and the central government.

The decisions of the Supreme Court are binding on all courts within the territory of India.

The Chief Justice of India is appointed by the President of India, but this appointment is based on the seniority of the judges and the recommendation of the outgoing Chief Justice, not directly by the Prime Minister.

‘WOMEN CAN BE TRIED FOR PENETRATIVE SEXUAL ASSAULT ON CHILDREN’

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

The Delhi High Court has clarified that women can also be prosecuted for the offence of “penetrative sexual assault” under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.

Gender-Neutral Legislation:

• The POCSO Act is designed to protect children from sexual offences, irrespective of the gender of the perpetrator.
• The court emphasized that the Act’s provisions apply equally to both men and women.

Legal Interpretation:

• The word “person” in Section 3 of the POCSO Act includes all individuals, regardless of gender.
• The court noted that the term “he” in the Act should be interpreted broadly to encompass any offender, not just males.

Court’s Ruling in Trial of Female Offenders:

• The court ruled that criminal proceedings can be initiated against women under the POCSO Act for offences like “penetrative sexual assault” and “aggravated penetrative sexual assault.”
• The petitioner, a woman accused in the case, was held liable to be put on trial for the offences as charged.

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act Enactment and Administration ·       Enacted in 2012 and administered by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. Purpose ·       Provides comprehensive protection against sexual abuse of children. ·       Addresses sexual assault, sexual harassment, and pornographic violations. ·       Establishes Special Courts for trial of these offences. Amendments ·       2019 amendments strengthened penalties to deter abusers and promote children’s dignity. Key Provisions ·       Gender-Neutral Legislation ·       Defines a child as “any person” under the age of 18. ·       Mandatory Reporting ·       Failure to report a sexual offence involving a subordinate by those in charge of institutions is punishable. ·       No Time Limit for Reporting ·       Victims can report offences at any time, even years after the abuse. ·       Confidentiality of Victim’s Identity ·       Prohibits disclosure of the victim’s identity in media unless authorized by special courts. Concerns ·       Increase in Abuse ·       Rise in abuse cases, especially post-Covid-19 with new forms of cybercrime. ·       Lack of Awareness ·       Limited awareness among minors, parents, and society about the Act. ·       Criminalisation of Adolescent Sex ·       Concerns about the criminalisation of consensual sexual activity among adolescents under the Act. ·       Issue of Minors Being Booked for Consensual Acts ·       Minors aged 16-18 engaging in consensual sexual acts may be booked under POCSO. ·       Risk includes denial of bail and prolonged detention. Study Findings ·       In West Bengal, Assam, and Maharashtra, about one in four POCSO cases involved consensual relationships. 22nd Law Commission of India’s Recommendations ·       Age of Consent: Lowering the age of consent may be counterproductive for women. ·       Awareness and Education: Recommend increasing awareness on adolescent health care. ·       Suggest making sex education and teaching consent basics under POCSO mandatory in schools.

Conclusion

The ruling underscores the gender-neutral nature of the POCSO Act, ensuring that all offenders, regardless of gender, are held accountable for crimes against children.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Which of the following statements about the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, is/are correct?
2. The POCSO Act was enacted in 2012 and is administered by the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
3. The Act allows for the prosecution of both men and women for the offence of “penetrative sexual assault.”
4. The term “person” in Section 3 of the POCSO Act refers only to males.

Choose the correct answer from the options below:

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

ANSWER: A

EXPLANATION: refer article

ON THE ALLEGATIONS AGAINST THE SEBI CHIEF

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: LIVE MINT

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) Chairman Madhabi Puri Buch and her husband Dhaval Buch are facing accusations from New York-based Hindenburg Research. These allegations pertain to a conflict of interest related to the ongoing SEBI investigation into the Adani Group

Conflict of Interest:

• Personal Investments: Hindenburg Research alleges that Madhabi Puri Buch and her husband held stakes in offshore funds linked to the Adani Group, potentially compromising SEBI’s investigation.
• The funds in question, based in Bermuda and Mauritius, are alleged to be connected to Vinod Adani, brother of Gautam Adani, through investments by Adani associates.
• Hindenburg claims these investments may have influenced SEBI’s stance in its investigation into the Adani Group.

Professional Engagements:

• Consulting Firm: Before joining SEBI, Ms. Buch founded a consulting firm. Hindenburg alleges that she did not fully divest her stake in the firm after joining SEBI, which could present a conflict of interest.
• The Buchs stated that the consulting firms became dormant upon Ms. Buch’s SEBI appointment and were disclosed to SEBI.
• Dhaval Buch’s Role at Blackstone: Dhaval Buch was appointed as a senior advisor at Blackstone, a major REIT sponsor in India. Hindenburg alleges this appointment could be linked to SEBI’s favourable policy changes for REITs during Ms. Buch’s tenure.

SEBI and Buchs’ Response: SEBI and Buchs deny the allegations.

• The Buchs stated that their investments in the offshore funds were made before Ms. Buch joined SEBI and were redeemed when the fund manager stepped down in 2018.
• They also emphasized that Mr. Buch’s role at Blackstone was related to his expertise in supply chain management, not real estate.

SEBI’s Position:

• SEBI labelled the accusations as inappropriate and emphasized the thorough consultation process followed for REIT regulations.
• SEBI also informed that one of the allegations against Adani Group has been resolved, with the second nearing completion.

Conclusion:

The Supreme Court is monitoring SEBI’s investigation into the Adani Group, having refused to transfer the case to another agency. The situation highlights ongoing concerns about conflicts of interest within regulatory bodies.

20 SIKHS FROM AFGHANISTAN GRANTED CITIZENSHIP CERTIFICATE UNDER CAA

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

Recently, 20 Sikhs from Afghanistan were granted Indian citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019.

These individuals had applied online nearly 100 days ago and are part of a larger group seeking Indian citizenship due to persecution in Afghanistan.

Background

• Long-Term Visas (LTVs): Many Afghan Sikhs have been living in India on LTVs, which are renewed periodically. LTVs are often the first step toward obtaining citizenship.
• Citizenship Act, 1955: Before the CAA, Afghan Sikhs and Hindus had been applying for citizenship under this older act, with some applications pending since 2010.

Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019

• Simplified Process: The CAA has streamlined the citizenship process, reducing the involvement of state authorities and speeding up approvals.
• Focus on Minorities: The CAA is designed to grant citizenship to persecuted minorities (Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians) from Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

Current Developments

• Granting of Citizenship: In the last week, 20 Afghan Sikhs received citizenship certificates in New Delhi, allowing them to apply for Indian passports.
• Pending Applications: Around 400 Afghan Sikhs are still waiting for their citizenship applications, some pending for decades under the 1955 Act.
• Migration of Applications: Many Sikhs are now requesting to transfer their applications from the 1955 Act to the CAA to increase their chances of approval.

Case Examples

• Fateh Singh: A Sikh migrant living in India since 1992, still on an LTV, has been helping others apply for citizenship under the CAA.
• Tarlok Singh: Migrated to India in 2007 due to safety concerns in Afghanistan, recently granted citizenship under the CAA, with his minor children still awaiting approval.

CITIZENSHIP (AMENDMENT) ACT (CAA), 2019: Citizenship Citizenship refers to the legal status of a person recognized as a member of a country, with rights and duties under its laws. About: Enacted in 2019.Administered by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Key Features: ·       Eligibility: Grants Indian citizenship to illegal migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan who are Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, or Christians and entered India on or before December 31, 2014. ·       Relaxations: Reduces the residency requirement for naturalization from 11 years to 6 years; exempts these communities from prosecution under the Foreigners Act, 1946, and the Passport Act, 1920. ·       Exceptions: Does not apply to tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura, and states under the Inner Line Permit. ·       Consequences of Citizenship: Grants citizenship from the date of entry into India and ends legal proceedings related to illegal migration. Arguments in Support: ·       Historical Context: Addresses issues of persecution faced by minorities in neighboring countries post-partition. ·       Humanitarian Grounds: Provides a dignified life to persecuted religious minorities. ·       Civilizational Ethos: Aligns with India’s history of sheltering persecuted minorities. ·       Reasonable Classification: Differentiates on religious grounds to help persecuted minorities, seen as reasonable under Article 14. ·       National Interest: Aims to deter illegal immigration and safeguard national security. Criticism: ·       Exclusionary Nature: Selective inclusion of certain religious minorities; exclusion of others like Ahmadiyya’s, Hazaras, and Rohingyas. ·       Violation of Article 14: Discriminates based on religion, challenging the principle of equality and secularism. ·       Date of Entry: The December 31, 2014, cutoff date lacks justification. ·       Excessive Discretion: Grants wide powers to the government for OCI cancellation. Impacts: ·       Social Polarization: Sparks religious and communal tensions. ·       Global Censure: Criticized internationally for human rights violations and generating diplomatic tensions with neighbouring countries. ·       Violent Protests: Led to widespread and sometimes violent protests across India, including in Delhi. ·       CAA Vs Assam Accord: Raises concerns about conflicting with the Assam Accord, which seeks to identify and deport illegal immigrants in Assam.

Conclusion

The CAA has provided a faster pathway to citizenship for Afghan Sikhs, offering them relief from their long wait and allowing them to integrate fully into Indian society. However, challenges remain for those still awaiting approval, particularly under the older Citizenship Act, 1955.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Which of the following statements about the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019, is/are correct?
2. The CAA provides a path to Indian citizenship for illegal migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, and Christian communities.
3. The CAA extends its provisions to illegal migrants of all religious communities without any exceptions.
4. The Act relaxes the residency requirement for citizenship from 11 years to 6 years for eligible migrants.
5. The CAA applies to all states and union territories in India without any exceptions.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

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

ANSWER: B

EXPLANATION:

The CAA does not extend its provisions to illegal migrants of all religious communities. It specifically excludes Muslims from its benefits.

The CAA relaxes the residency requirement for naturalization from 11 years to 6 years for the specified communities.

The CAA does not apply to certain areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Tripura under the Sixth Schedule, and areas under the “Inner Line” permit system as per the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulations of 1873.

RETAIL INFLATION SLIPS TO 59-MONTH LOW

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE PRINT

Retail inflation in India fell to a 59-month low in July 2024, marking the slowest pace since September 2019. This drop brings inflation below the reserve bank of India’s (rbi) 4% median target.

urban vs. rural inflation:

• urban inflation: dropped to just under 3% in july, down from 4.4% in june.
• rural inflation: stood at 4.1%, down from 5.7% in june.

food price inflation:

• urban areas:6% in july, down from 9.6% in june.
• rural areas:9% in july, down from 9.15% in june.

vegetable inflation:

• fell sharply to 6.8% in july from 29.3% in june, driving the overall decline in inflation.

areas of concern

• pulses: inflation remained above 10% for the 14th consecutive month.
• personal care and effects: inflation rose to 8.44%.
• cereals: inflation stayed above 8%, a concern for both the government and the rbi.

state-wise inflation:

• higher than national average: Bihar (5.9%), assam (5.1%), Odisha (4.8%).
• lowest inflation: Jharkhand (1.7%), Delhi (2.1%), Chhattisgarh (2.2%).

conclusion

despite the overall decline, some areas like pulses and cereals continue to face high inflation, posing challenges for economic policymakers.

HOW TUNGABHADRA DAM GATE WAS SWEPT AWAY, WHY FARMERS ARE FEARFUL

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

A flood alert has been issued in Karnataka’s Koppal district after a crest gate of the Tungabhadra dam was washed away on August 10, 2024. The dam plays a crucial role in supplying water for irrigation, industrial use, and drinking purposes in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

Incident Details of Gate Breakdown:

• The Tungabhadra dam has 33 crest gates.
• On August 10, 2024, one of the gates (No. 19) broke after a chain link used to operate it failed.
• The 60-foot-by-20-foot gate was swept away by the force of the water.
• Previous welding on chain links was done 3-4 years ago; replacement with steel cables was suggested but not implemented.

Dam Specifications

Water Levels:

• On August 10, the dam was at its maximum capacity of 105.8 TMC ft.
• Inflow: 40,925 cusecs; Outflow: 28,133 cusecs.
• The dam is a major reservoir supplying water for various needs across Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

Repair Challenges:

• Repairs can only begin after discharging 60-65% of the water.
• A new stop lock gate will be fabricated and installed within a week.

Concerns:

• Farmers upstream fear irrigation issues due to the draining of the reservoir.
• A flood alert has been issued for downstream areas, though no heavy rain is forecast.

Causes of Dam Failure

• Overtopping: Caused by floods exceeding the dam’s capacity.
• Structural Failure: Issues with construction materials or design.
• Inadequate Maintenance: Poor upkeep leading to deterioration.
• Foundation Movement: Failure or movement of the dam’s supporting foundation.
• Settlement and Cracking: Cracks in concrete or embankment dams.
• Piping and Internal Erosion: Erosion of soil in embankment dams.
• Sabotage: Deliberate acts of damage.

Regulation of Dams in India

• Dam Safety Act, 2021: Prevents dam failure disasters and establishes systems for surveillance, inspection, and maintenance.
• Central Water Commission (CWC): Provides technical expertise on dams.
• Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP): Launched in 2012 with World Bank assistance to improve dam safety and performance.
• National Centre for Earthquake Safety of Dams: Located at MNIT, Jaipur, implements the Dam Safety Act 2021.
• State Efforts: Bihar enacted its Dam Safety Act in 2006.

Concerns with the Dam Safety Act, 2021

• Lack of Data: Incomplete reporting and outdated records.
• Governance Issues: Poor compliance and implementation, exemplified by Sikkim’s glacial lake outburst flooding.
• Transparency: No provisions for risk-based decision making or transparency incentives.
• Operational Safety: Focuses primarily on structural safety with limited provisions for operational safety.
• Non-Compliance: Instances like Himachal Pradesh’s notices to hydroelectric projects for non-compliance.
• Vagueness: Lack of standardization in safety evaluations and reporting.

Future Directions for Dam Safety

• Transparent Mechanisms: Improve access to dam safety information for stakeholders.
• Periodic Reviews: Update inundation maps and safety assessments.
• Hazard Classification: Adopt systems similar to Sweden and the US for dam safety classification.
• Flood Plain Zoning: Implement effective catchment area treatments to reduce flood risks.

Conclusion

The incident highlights the need for regular maintenance and timely upgrades of dam infrastructure to prevent such occurrences and ensure water management safety.

ONCE THRIVING, NOW ALL BUT GONE: A HISTORY OF KERALA’S JEWISH COMMUNITIES

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

Kerala was once home to a vibrant Jewish community, including the Malabar (Cochin) Jews and the Paradesi Jews. However, these communities have dwindled over time, with only a handful of members remaining.

Jewish Communities in Kerala

Malabar Jews:

• Also known as Cochin Jews, they trace their origins to as early as the 10th century BCE.
• They initially settled in Cranganore (Kodungallur) and later moved to Cochin in the 14th century.
• They adopted Malayalam and local customs, integrating deeply with the region.

Paradesi Jews:

• Migrated from the Iberian Peninsula in the 15th and 16th centuries due to persecution by Catholic rulers.
• They settled in Cochin and played a significant role in the spice trade.
• Over time, they became distinct from the Malabar Jews, both culturally and socially.

Decline and Legacy

• The Jewish community in Kerala thrived during the British era, with members excelling in trade and various professions.
• However, since the 1950s, many Jews migrated to Israel, leading to a significant decline in the community.
• Today, only a few Jews remain in Kerala, with the Paradesi Synagogue in Matta cherry being one of the last remnants of this once-thriving community.

About Jews and Judaism Origins of Judaism: ·       Founder: Judaism traces its origins to the patriarch Abraham, considered the father of the Jewish people. ·       Covenant: According to biblical tradition, God made a covenant with Abraham, promising to make his descendants into a great nation. Core Beliefs: ·       Monotheism: Judaism is a monotheistic religion, believing in one God who revealed Himself through ancient prophets. ·       Prophets: Key figures include Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and Solomon. Historical Context: ·       Age: Judaism is one of the world’s oldest religions, with a history spanning nearly 4,000 years. ·       Persecution: Jews have faced significant persecution throughout history, including the Holocaust, where approximately 6 million Jews were killed. Cultural and Religious Heritage: ·       Law: Judaism has a rich legal tradition based on the Torah (the first five books of the Hebrew Bible). ·       Culture: Jewish culture encompasses a wide range of traditions, languages, and practices. ·       Tradition: The religion includes various rituals and festivals such as Passover, Yom Kippur, and Hanukkah. Influence: ·       Abrahamic Faith: Judaism is considered the original Abrahamic faith, which also includes Christianity and Islam.