13-February-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

WAYANAD ELEPHANT KILLS MAN

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

The recent incident of a radio-collared wild elephant causing a fatality in Wayanad has spotlighted the escalating human-animal conflict in Kerala.

The rise in attacks by wild animals, particularly elephants, tigers, bison, and wild boars, poses a growing threat, prompting locals to demand swift action from forest and revenue authorities.

Rising Human-Animal Conflict in Kerala:

• Across the state, districts like Wayanad, Kannur, Palakkad, and Idukki are witnessing an alarming surge in human-animal conflicts.
• Government data for 2022-23 indicates a significant rise, with 8,873 reported wild animal attacks, involving elephants, tigers, wild boars, leopards, and bison.
• Crop loss due to animal raids has reached 20,957 incidents from 2017 to 2023, impacting Kerala’s agriculture sector.

Wayanad’s Vulnerability:

• Wayanad, boasting a 36.48% forest cover, faces a critical situation, having lost 41 lives to elephant attacks and seven to tiger attacks over the past decade.
• The district’s geographical location, connected to forested areas in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, contributes to the movement of elephants and tigers across state borders.

Factors Driving Conflict:

• Decline in Forest Quality: The cultivation of alien plants, like acacia, mangium, and eucalyptus for commercial purposes, has led to a decline in forest habitat quality. Invasive species further impede natural vegetation growth.
• Changing Agricultural Practices: Evolving agricultural methods have left farmlands unattended, attracting wildlife seeking alternative food sources, such as bananas and pineapples.
• Human Activities: Factors like waste disposal near forested areas, habitat fragmentation due to construction, and increased human presence contribute to the conflict.

Kerala’s Mitigation Efforts:

• Preventive Measures: The state employs schemes for constructing elephant-proof trenches, stone walls, and solar-powered electric fencing to deter animals from entering human settlements.
• Eco-Restoration Programs: Kerala is engaged in eco-restoration initiatives and has schemes to acquire land from farmers for conversion into forestland.
• Rapid Response Teams (RRTs): Fifteen Rapid Response Teams, both permanent and temporary, have been established in conflict-prone areas, with plans for additional teams.
• Financial Requests: In 2022, Kerala sought Rs 620 crore from the Centre to address the crisis. However, the Centre urged the state to find its resources and develop innovative solutions.

CMS COP14: EXPECT LISTING OF NEW SPECIES, ACTION PLANS FOR CONSERVATION AT SAMARKAND SUMMIT

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

The 14th Conference of Parties (COP14) of the Convention of Migratory Species (CMS) commenced on February 12, 2024, in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

Led by the United Nations Environment Programme-World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UN-WCMC), COP14 aims to address urgent actions required for the protection and conservation of migratory species globally.

Key Highlights:

• Inclusion of New Species: Proposals to include several terrestrial and aquatic animals in the CMS list are expected. Notable inclusions are the Eurasian lynx, guanaco, Pallas’s cat, straw-coloured fruit bat, Hawksbill turtle, Atlantic humpback dolphin, and angelshark.
• Single Species Action Plans (SSAP): COP14 plans to develop SSAPs for marine species such as the Hawksbill turtle, Atlantic humpback dolphin, and angelshark, focusing on conservation efforts in specific regions.
• Amendments to Appendices: Discussions will revolve around amending the appendices of various species, including Lahille’s bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise, sand tiger shark, and several types of catfish.
• Focus on Migratory Birds: Approximately 962 migratory bird species listed in CMS will be addressed, with a focus on combating illegal killing and revised programmes of work for landbirds in the African-Eurasian region.
• Technological Integration: Proposals regarding the use of modern technologies like satellite imaging and climate models to aid conservation efforts will be deliberated upon. These tools aim to prioritize actions for species and their habitats effectively.
• Introduction of SSAPs: New SSAPs will be introduced for species like the sooty falcon, Christmas Island frigatebird, and great bustard, emphasizing long-term conservation strategies.
• Proposed Listings: Several species, including the Peruvian pelican, magellanic plover, and bearded vulture, are proposed for listings in CMS appendices, highlighting the urgency of their conservation.
• Regional Initiatives: Draft arguments for regional initiatives, such as the Central Asian Mammal Initiative, will be presented, underscoring collaborative efforts for species conservation.

Challenges and Urgency:

• Human Activities: Declines in species are attributed mainly to human activities, with overexploitation emerging as a significant threat alongside habitat degradation.
• Need for Action: Urgent actions are required to conserve and protect migratory species, especially those lacking adequate protections within the CMS framework.

A PRIVILEGED STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP, WITHOUT A GULF

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: THE HINDU

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on his seventh visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from February 13-14, 2024.

During this visit, he will inaugurate a temple in Abu Dhabi. This marks a significant moment in the bilateral relationship between India and the UAE.

Status of India-U.A.E. Relations:

• Prime Minister’s Visits: This upcoming visit will be the Prime Minister’s seventh to the UAE since 2015 and the third in the last eight months.
• Felicitation of UAE President: Earlier this year, the UAE President was honored in a road show during his visit to Gandhinagar, showcasing the strengthening ties between the two nations.
• Evolving Bilateral Relationship: In a short duration, India’s relationship with the UAE has evolved into one of the most prominent bilateral relationships for New Delhi.

Areas of Cooperation:

Strategic Cooperation:

• India’s participation in important groupings like I2U2 or the West Asian Quad.
• UAE’s involvement in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) infrastructure project to counter China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Energy Cooperation:

• The UAE, the only Gulf nation with strategic oil reserves stored in India.
• Agreement between Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Ltd (ISPRL) and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company for investment in the strategic crude oil storage facility in Mangaluru.

Economic Cooperation:

• UAE as India’s third-largest trading partner and second-largest export destination.
• Bilateral trade reaching $85 billion in 2022-23.
• UAE as the fourth-largest overall investor in India.
• India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement targeting $115 billion in trade in services.

Technical Cooperation:

• Robust financial technology cooperation, including acceptance of RuPay card in the UAE.
• Operationalization of a rupee-dirham settlement system for transactions, exemplified by Indian Oil Corporation’s payment to Abu Dhabi National Oil Company.

Climate Change Cooperation:

• PM Modi’s participation in COP 28 climate summit in Dubai.
• Joint launch of the Global Green Credit Initiative to address finance-related issues in climate change efforts.

Areas of Divergence:

• Challenges Faced by Indian Businesses: Unclear regulations, labor laws, and transparency issues in the UAE pose challenges for Indian businesses.
• Territorial Disputes: Territorial disputes between the UAE and Iran may impact India’s trade and energy security.
• Issues Faced by Indian Workers: Indian blue-collar workers in the UAE encounter problems such as poor working and living conditions, along with discrimination.

Conclusion:

While India and the UAE experience certain divergences, the overall relationship showcases great convergence and mutual respect. These issues are not uncommon among even the closest of friendly nations. The visit and the ongoing cooperation between the two nations reflect a commitment to strengthening ties in various spheres.

SC SAYS JAIL, NOT BAIL, IS THE RULE UNDER THE UAPA

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

The recent denial of bail to Gurwinder Singh, an accused in an alleged Khalistan module, by the Supreme Court sheds light on the complexities of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), 1967.

Singh is accused of involvement with Sikhs for Justice, a pro-Khalistan group banned by the Indian government.

Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), 1967:

Enactment and Purpose:

• Enacted in 1967, UAPA is India’s primary counter-terror law.
• Aimed at outlawing and penalizing unlawful and terrorist activities threatening India’s integrity and sovereignty.

Activities Covered:

• Aiding and abetting terrorists, funding terrorists, inciting anti-national sentiments, and other unlawful activities against the state fall under its purview.

Key Provisions:

• Grants wide-ranging powers to the Central Government to designate terrorist organizations.
• Prescribes penalties for participating in the activities of such organizations.

Applicability:

• Applies to offenses committed outside India, allowing charges against both Indian and foreign nationals.
• Timelines for filing a charge sheet and completing investigations are specified.

Special Court and Sanction to Prosecute:

• Establishes a special court for trials under UAPA.
• Prosecution requires prior sanction from the central or state government.

2019 Amendment:

• Expanded the definition of terrorism to include individuals designated as terrorists.
• NIA’s Director General’s approval required for property seizure during NIA-led investigations.
• Added the International Convention for Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism to the list of treaties.

Section 43D(5) of UAPA:

Granting Bail under UAPA:

• This provision makes it challenging to grant bail to terror accused under UAPA.
• The court must be satisfied of a “prima facie” case against the accused.

Court’s Role:

• Courts are directed not to analyze evidence but consider the totality of the state’s case.
• The accused must convince the court if relying solely on the police’s version.

Supreme Court’s Interpretation:

• In the Zahoor Ahmed Shah Watali case (2019), the Supreme Court affirmed the “prima facie true” test without examining evidence for granting bail.
• In Union of India v K A Najeeb (January 2021), the SC upheld bail under UAPA based on prolonged incarceration but deemed it an exception.
• The constitutional right to a speedy trial was recognized as a ground for bail.

Recent Developments:

• In July 2023, in Vernon Gonsalves v State of Maharashtra, the SC disagreed with the Watali ruling.
• The bench emphasized the need for a basic analysis of evidence during bail examination.

WHAT IS NAZOOL LAND, BEHIND RECENT DISPUTE AND VIOLENCE IN HALDWANI?

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

The recent outbreak of violence in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, on February 8, stemmed from a demolition drive conducted by the administration at a mosque and madrasa site, allegedly situated on Nazool land.

Nazool Land:

Definition and Ownership:

• Nazool land is government-owned but not directly administered as state property.
• Often leased to entities for fixed periods, usually between 15 and 99 years.

Lease Renewal and Government Authority:

• Entities can apply to the Revenue Department for lease renewal.
• The government holds the discretion to renew or cancel the lease, reclaiming the Nazool land.

Origin:

• During British rule, lands taken from opposing kings without proper documentation were designated as Nazool land after India gained independence.

Government Use:

• Utilized for public purposes like schools, hospitals, and Gram Panchayat buildings.
• In some cities, leased for housing societies.

Governance:

• Governed by The Nazool Lands (Transfer) Rules, 1956, with states also issuing government orders.

         

Waqf Land:

Definition and Purpose:

• Waqf land is permanently dedicated to religious, charitable, or pious purposes, according to Muslim law.
• Supports mosques, educational institutions, and welfare initiatives within the Muslim community.

Legislative Framework:

• The Waqf Act of 1995 regulates the administration and supervision of Waqf properties in India.
• Establishes bodies like the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards.

Recent Legal Developments:

• In 2022, the Supreme Court declined a petition challenging the constitutionality of the Waqf Act.
• The Delhi High Court directed the Delhi Development Authority to maintain the status quo in a case involving a demolished mosque.

Haldwani Dispute:

Nazool Land Registration:

• The Haldwani district administration asserts that the disputed property is registered as the Nagar Nigam’s Nazool land.

Demolition Drive Background:

• The administration initiated a demolition drive to alleviate traffic congestion on roads.
• A notice issued on January 30 required encroachments to be removed within three days or ownership documents provided.

Local Response:

• Locals visited the Nagar Nigam, submitted an application, and sought time to appeal to the High Court.
• High Court’s final decision awaited, scheduled for February 14.

ALASKAPOX

TOPIC: (GS2) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: NDTV NEWS

An elderly man in Alaska’s remote Kenai Peninsula died of Alaskapox in late January

About Alaskapox:

• Discovered in Alaska, USA, in 2015, Alaskapox is an orthopox virus.
• Belongs to the same genus (Orthopoxvirus) as smallpox, monkeypox, and cowpox.
• Orthopoxviruses are zoonotic, meaning they can infect various mammals, including humans.
• Primarily found in small mammals, notably red-backed voles and shrews.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Symptoms include skin lesions (bumps or pustules), swollen lymph nodes, and joint/muscle pain.
• Most patients experience mild illness that resolves within a few weeks.
• Immunocompromised individuals might face more severe illness.

Transmission:

• Human-to-human transmission hasn’t been observed yet.
• Some orthopoxviruses spread through direct contact with lesions or lesion secretions, especially broken skin contact.

SIX FOREST STAFF SUSPENDED FOR NEGLIGENCE

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: DECCAN CHRONICLE

Forest authorities suspended six staff members for negligence in controlling teak smuggling within the reserve.

About Kawal Tiger Reserve:

Location:

• Situated in the north-eastern part of Telangana, bordering the Godavari River and Maharashtra.
• Forms part of the Deccan peninsula-central highlands.

Designation:

• Declared a Tiger Reserve by the Government of India in 2012.

Rivers:

• Acts as the catchment area for the Godavari and Kadam rivers, flowing southward.

Geographical Significance:

• Positioned at the southernmost point of the Central Indian Tiger Landscape.
• Connects with Tadoba-Andhari (Maharashtra) and Indravati (Chhattisgarh) tiger reserves.

Habitat:

• Encompasses diverse habitats like dense forests, grasslands, rivers, and water bodies.

Vegetation:

• Dominated by Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest.
• Abundant in teak and bamboo, along with 673 recorded plant species including Anogeissus latifolia, Mitragyna parviflora, etc.

Fauna:

• Home to a variety of wildlife typical of the Deccan Plateau.
• Fauna includes nilgai, chousinga, chinkara, black buck, sambar, wild dog, wolf, tiger, leopard, and jungle cat.

BOCHASANWASI AKSHAR PURUSHOTTAM SWAMINARAYAN SANSTHA (BAPS)

TOPIC: (GS1) ART AND CULTURE – SOURCE: THE HINDU

Prime Minister will inaugurate the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the global presence and significance of BAPS in promoting Hindu values and spirituality.

About Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS):

• BAPS is a socio-spiritual Hindu faith rooted in the Vedas, based on teachings by Bhagwan Swaminarayan (1781-1830 CE).
• Formally established in 1907 CE by Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj.
• Emphasizes practical spirituality to address spiritual, moral, and social challenges.
• Followers abide by five lifetime vows: No Alcohol, No Addictions, No Adultery, No Meat, No Impurity of body and mind.
• Operates a global network of mandirs and centers for various activities.
• Focuses on education, women’s development, and humanitarian efforts.
• Manages schools, hostels, and community development activities for women.
• Engages in humanitarian services during natural calamities, operates primary schools, students’ hostels, hospitals, diagnostic camps, anti-addiction drives, environment-awareness programs, tribal uplift, and literacy campaigns.
• Holds Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.