13-Oct-2023-Daily-Current-Affairs

THE VIEW FROM THE HILL

GS 3 (ENVIRONMENT): SOURCE – THE HINDU

The eastern state of Odisha, known for its rich biodiversity and indigenous tribal communities, is currently witnessing escalating interest in bauxite mining. The region is home to the Kondh tribe, who have inhabited these lands for generations. However, mining activities pose a serious threat to the environment and the livelihoods of these indigenous people.

Escalating Mining Interests:

The is a growing interest in mining activities in southern Odisha’s Eastern Ghats, particularly in the Sijimali hill region. Private companies are eager to exploit the rich bauxite deposits in the area, driven by contracts with major conglomerates like Vedanta Limited.

Impact on Indigenous Communities:

The indigenous Kondh tribe in the region is deeply concerned about the adverse effects of mining on their livelihoods. The mining projects, particularly Vedanta’s, are expected to harm the environment and disrupt the traditional practices of these indigenous communities.

Legal Challenges and Opposition:

• The Kondh tribe and other concerned villagers have raised their voices in opposition to the mining projects.
• They are also participating in crucial public hearings for environmental clearance to express their concerns.

Aluminium Market Dynamics:

Aluminium prices have rebounded post-COVID-19, with increasing demand in India and Southeast Asia, primarily driven by infrastructure and economic growth.

Water Concerns:

Local residents fear that mining activities, if unchecked, could negatively impact their water sources. Streams originating from the mining areas may be disrupted, affecting agriculture and daily life in the region.

Environmental Impact:

It also points out that the Eastern Ghats’ ecological significance has been less studied compared to the Western Ghats. Bauxite mining, however, can have downstream effects, including water resource depletion and damage to the local population’s way of life.

Conclusion:

The clash between mining interests and the indigenous communities in Odisha’s Eastern Ghats highlights the ongoing struggle for environmental preservation, the protection of tribal rights, and the economic interests of the mining industry. There is a urgent need for a comprehensive study of the environmental impact of mining in the region and the importance of preserving the Eastern Ghats’ unique ecosystem.

POCSO CASES: L-G APPOINTS SPECIAL PUBLIC PROSECUTORS

GS 2 (POLITY AND GOVERNANCE): SOURCE – THE HINDU

Lieutenant-Governor (L-G) of Delhi has approved the appointment of four special public prosecutors for cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. This comes after a significant delay in issuing the necessary notification by the Delhi government, which prompted the L-G to refer the files to the Ministry of Home Affairs for appointments under Section 24(8) of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).

Delays and Controversy:

• The L-G received the files after a nine-month delay, causing concerns about timely justice in POCSO cases.
• The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) requested the notification for the appointment of senior public prosecutors under POCSO Act, but the process was marred by delays.
• The Delhi government claims that the delay occurred due to an attempt to bypass its authority in appointing special public prosecutors by sending the file directly to the Union Home Ministry.

The appointment of special public prosecutors in POCSO cases is crucial for ensuring swift and effective trials. Delays and controversies surrounding this process must be resolved to expedite justice and uphold the rights of victims. A collaborative approach between the Delhi government and the Union Home Ministry is essential to streamline such appointments and avoid unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.

Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act,

• The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, effective from November 14, 2012, was enacted following India’s ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1992.
• This specialized law aims to combat sexual exploitation and abuse of children, addressing offenses that were not adequately defined or penalized previously.
• It defines a child as any person below 18 years of age and prescribes punishment according to the gravity of the offense.
• In 2019, the Act underwent amendments to introduce more stringent penalties, including the death penalty for sexual crimes against children, with the goal of deterring perpetrators and preventing such crimes.
• Additionally, the Indian government notified the POCSO Rules, 2020, to provide a framework for the effective implementation of the Act. This legislation is a critical step in safeguarding the rights and well-being of children in India.

‘CORE ISSUE’ IS CANADA BEING SAFE HAVEN FOR TERRORISTS, SAYS INDIA

GS 2 (INTRNATIONAL RELATIONS): SOURCE – THE HINDU

The India-Canada relationship has been marred by tensions revolving around the issue of ensuring diplomatic parity, concerns over alleged support for terrorists and criminal elements, and the recent diplomatic spat involving the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs remains committed to achieving equality in diplomatic missions with Canada while pressing for the safety and security of Indian diplomats.

Core Issue: Safe Haven for Terrorists:

The central point of contention between India and Canada is the perceived safe space that terrorists and criminals have found in Canada. The Indian government has expressed concerns about Canada being a sanctuary for such elements.

Diplomatic Parity:

India seeks to establish diplomatic parity with Canada. This issue has been unresolved and has caused strains in bilateral relations. Achieving equality in diplomatic presence remains a priority for India.

Diplomatic Tensions:

The alleged involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar led to a diplomatic row between the two countries. The situation was further complicated by the reported relocation of Canadian diplomats to Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

SOLAR CELLS AND MODULE EXPORTS FROM INDIA TO US ARE UP TO 1000% HIGHER OVER THE LAST YEAR

GS 3 (ECONOMY): SOURCE – BUSINESS STANDARD

India has witnessed a remarkable surge in solar module exports, with a growth rate of 1,062%, soaring to $628.38 million during April-July 2023, compared to $54.04 million in the same period in 2022. While this has brought gains for Indian solar manufacturers, it has also sparked concerns regarding the import-export balance, domestic market support, and the impact of the Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on energy developers.

1. US Market Dominance: Indian solar manufacturers thrive in the US market due to trade barriers that prevent Chinese manufacturers from competing.
2. Support for Domestic Manufacturers: Domestic module producers benefit from Production-Linked Incentives (PLI), 40% Basic Customs Duty protection, and Ministry of New and Renewable Energy’s ‘Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM)’.
3. Energy Developers’ Concerns: Energy developers raise concerns about the Basic Customs Duty, which imposes an additional cost of 8-9 cents per Watt-peak, even though domestic manufacturers have limited sales in India.
4. Increasing Imports: Solar cell and module imports to India rose to $1.26 billion in Apr-Jul 2023, a 78.3% increase from the previous year.
5. Future Prospects: India’s solar capacity is over 72 GW, with plans to auction 40 GW of solar and wind-solar hybrid capacity annually for the next five years.

Conclusion:

The remarkable surge in Indian solar exports, driven by the US market and trade barriers against Chinese manufacturers, highlights India’s manufacturing capabilities. However, concerns persist about import-export balance, the impact of Basic Customs Duty, and support for domestic energy developers.

USS GERALD R FORD AIRCRAFT CARRIER

GS 2 (INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS): SOURCE – THE INDIAN EXPRESS

The United States dispatched the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier to support Israel amid concerns of a potential attack by Hamas.

About the Aircraft Carrier:

• USS Gerald R. Ford is the world’s largest nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, capable of operating for 25 years without refuelling.
• With a capacity to accommodate up to 90 aircraft and a crew exceeding 4,500 personnel, it boasts impressive capabilities.
• The carrier can achieve speeds of over 30 knots (56 km/h).

WHAT THE GI TAG CAN MEAN FOR THE CASHEW INDUSTRY IN GOA

GS 2 (POLITY AND GOVERNANCE): SOURCE- THE INDIAN EXPRESS

Cashew in Goa’s Economy:

• Cashew, originally from Brazil, was introduced to Goa by the Portuguese in 1570.
• Initially, it was planted for afforestation and soil conservation purposes.
• Its economic potential was realized about a century later.
• The first cashew factory in Goa began operations in 1926, with cashew kernel exports starting in 1930.
• By 1961, the cashew processing industry contributed to about 60% of Goa’s industrial production, with a significant portion being exported.

Significance of GI Tag for Goan Cashew:

• The GI (Geographical Indication) tag for Goan cashews helps consumers distinguish authentic Goan cashews from those sourced outside the state, often misleadingly labelled as ‘Goan cashews.’
• This protection ensures the recognition of Goan cashews’ unique quality and origin, benefiting local manufacturers and processors while preserving the heritage of this industry.

WHY GAZA IS KNOWN AS THE WORLD’S BIGGEST ‘OPEN AIR PRISON’

GS 2 (INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS): SOURCE – THE INDIAN EXPRESS

Gaza Blockade and Its Impact:

• Gaza, situated along the Mediterranean Sea, is one of the two Palestinian territories, the other being the West Bank.
• Controlled by Hamas since 2007, it’s separated from Israel by a barrier and has a southern border crossing with Egypt.
• Gaza has faced a long-standing Israeli and Egyptian blockade, justified on security grounds, restricting the movement of people and goods.
• These restrictions have led to deteriorating living conditions, causing experts to refer to Gaza as an “open air prison.”
• The UN agency UNRWA reports over 60% food insecurity and 81% poverty rates in Gaza, along with severe water and electricity shortages, making life extremely challenging.

Recent Israeli Total Blockade:

• Israel recently declared a “total blockade” on Gaza, further intensifying restrictions, including bans on food, water, fuel, and electricity supplies.
• The blockade’s impact stems from Gaza’s ongoing isolation, as it has been under an Israeli air, land, and sea blockade since 2007.