16-July-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

SUPREME COURT TO HEAR PETITIONS AGAINST PASSING LAWS AS MONEY BILLS 

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

The Supreme Court of India, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, has decided to list petitions challenging the classification of certain contentious amendments as Money Bills. This decision responds to criticisms of the central government’s use of the Money Bill route to bypass detailed legislative scrutiny.

Context and Judicial Response

• Chief Justice Chandrachud announced the listing of petitions challenging the Money Bill route for contentious amendments.
• Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing petitioners including Rajya Sabha MP Jairam Ramesh, raised concerns over the central government’s approach.

Legal and Constitutional Concerns

• thus,primary issue revolves around whether amendments could be passed as Money Bills, thus avoiding Rajya Sabha’s review, which may contravene Article 110 of the Constitution.
• Money Bills are intended to cover matters strictly related to government revenue and expenditures, as specified in Article 110(1).

Notable Legislation Passed as Money Bills

Amendments to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)

• The Finance Act of 2017
• Aadhaar Act, 2016

Specific Issues with the PMLA Amendments

• Amendments made from 2015 onward have granted the Enforcement Directorate significant powers.
• The Supreme Court had upheld the PMLA amendments’ legality but left the question of their classification as Money Bills unresolved.

Money Bill

Definition and Characteristics

• A Money Bill is defined under Article 110 of the Indian Constitution.
• It deals exclusively with financial matters such as taxation, borrowing of money by the government, and expenditure from or receipt into the Consolidated Fund of India.

Key Provisions of a Money Bill

• Only the Lok Sabha can introduce a Money Bill.
• It requires the certification of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
• The Rajya Sabha cannot amend or reject a Money Bill but can make recommendations, which the Lok Sabha may accept or reject.
• The President cannot withhold assent to a Money Bill.

Examples

The Finance Act

• Amendments related to taxation or expenditure
• Financial Bill 1

Definition and Characteristics

• Financial Bill 1 contains provisions related to any of the matters mentioned in Article 110 but also includes other matters.
• It is introduced in the Lok Sabha but does not require the Speaker’s certification as a Money Bill.

Key Provisions of Financial Bill 1

• It must be passed by both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.
• The Rajya Sabha can amend or reject this bill.
• The President can either give assent, withhold assent, or return the bill for reconsideration.

Examples

• A bill that includes taxation provisions along with other general legislative measures.

Financial Bill 2

Definition and Characteristics

• Financial Bill 2 is defined under Article 117(3) of the Indian Constitution.
• It deals with expenditure from the Consolidated Fund of India but does not include any provisions listed in Article 110.

Key Provisions of Financial Bill 2

• It can be introduced in either the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha.
• It does not require certification by the Speaker.
• It follows the ordinary legislative procedure, meaning it must be passed by both houses of Parliament and requires the President’s assent.

Examples

• A bill that solely authorizes government expenditure without any tax provisions.
• Constitutional Provisions

Article 110 – Money Bills

• Defines what constitutes a Money Bill.
• Specifies the legislative process for Money Bills.

Article 117 – Financial Bills

• Differentiates between Financial Bills (1) and Financial Bills (2).
• Outlines the legislative procedures for both types of Financial Bills.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s decision to hear these petitions marks a significant step in addressing the contentious use of the Money Bill classification. This move is expected to clarify the constitutional boundaries of what can be deemed a Money Bill, ensuring that legislative processes adhere to the Constitution.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Consider the following statements regarding a Money Bill:
2. A Money Bill can be introduced in either House of Parliament.
3. The Rajya Sabha cannot amend or reject a Money Bill.
4. The President cannot return a Money Bill for reconsideration.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

ANSWER: B

EXPLANATION:

A Money Bill can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha (not in either House of Parliament).

The Rajya Sabha cannot amend or reject a Money Bill; it can only make recommendations, which the Lok Sabha may accept or reject.

The President cannot return a Money Bill for reconsideration.

INDIA’S MERCHANDISE TRADE PERFORMANCE IN JUNE 

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU 

India’s trade performance in June 2024 saw notable growth in exports and imports. While merchandise exports rose for the third consecutive month, the import bill grew at a faster pace, leading to a widened trade deficit. This performance has implications for the country’s economic outlook.

Export and Import Growth

• Merchandise exports increased by 2.55% to $35.2 billion.
• Imports surged by 5% to $56.2 billion.
• The trade deficit widened by 9.4% compared to the previous year.

Record-High Quarterly Exports

• Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal reported total merchandise and services exports of $200.3 billion in the first quarter of 2024-25.
• This figure surpasses the previous high of $197.1 billion recorded in 2022-23.
• Services exports for the last month were estimated at $30.3 billion, an 8.9% increase from the previous year.

Annual Export Targets and Optimism

• India’s total exports reached $778.2 billion in 2023-24, a 0.42% increase from the previous year.
• To achieve the $800 billion target for this year, exports need to grow by 2.8%.
• Despite geopolitical risks, the government is optimistic, focusing on six key sectors and 20 countries to boost exports.

Sectoral Performance

• Major growth drivers included engineering goods (10.3%), electronics (16.9%), pharmaceuticals (9.9%), chemicals (3.3%), and coffee (70%).
• However, petroleum exports fell by 18.3% to $5.5 billion, while imports increased by 19.6% to $15.05 billion.

Conclusion

India’s trade performance in June reflects a complex mix of growth and challenges. While the rise in exports is encouraging, the faster growth in imports and the resultant trade deficit highlight areas needing attention. With strategic focus and sustained growth impulses, India aims to cross the $800 billion export mark this year.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Consider the following statements regarding India’s trade:
2. Engineering goods and electronics have been significant growth drivers in India’s exports.
3. India’s petroleum exports have consistently increased over the years.
4. The trade deficit widens when the import bill grows faster than the export revenue.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

ANSWER: C

EXPLANATION:

Engineering goods and electronics have indeed been significant growth drivers in India’s exports.

Statement 2 is incorrect because petroleum exports can fluctuate and have not consistently increased, as evidenced by the recent decline.

The trade deficit indeed widens when the import bill grows faster than the export revenue.

RULES FOR CIVIL SERVANTS 

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

Civil servants in India are governed by specific rules and regulations to ensure integrity and accountability in their conduct. The recent case of IAS probationer Puja Khedkar highlights the importance of these rules. This note summarizes the key regulations from the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968, and the IAS (Probation) Rules, 1954.

Facts of the Case

• Puja Khedkar, ranked 821 in the 2022 UPSC Civil Services Examination, faces allegations of misconduct.
• Issues include securing her position through questionable means, misusing official privileges, and accepting unauthorized gifts.
• In response, the Maharashtra government transferred her from Pune to Wasim.

Conduct Rules for Civil Servants

Governed by the All-India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968.

• Officers must maintain integrity and devotion to duty, and not engage in conduct unbecoming of a member of the service.
• They must not place themselves under any financial obligation to any individual or organization that may influence their official decisions.
• Rule 11(1) specifies that officers can accept gifts from near relatives or personal friends only on special occasions and must report gifts exceeding ₹25,000.

Probation Rules

• Additional rules under the IAS (Probation) Rules, 1954, apply during the probation period.
• Probationers must exhibit qualities of mind and character necessary for service.
• Neglecting duties or engaging in misconduct can lead to termination.

Misconduct and Consequences

• Khedkar is accused of occupying unauthorized chambers, misusing a luxury car, and receiving it as a gift.
• The Centre has initiated a summary inquiry to assess her alleged misconduct.
• If found guilty, severe consequences including dismissal from service can follow.

Furnishing False Information

• Since 1995, reservations under the PH quota have included categories for various disabilities.
• Misrepresentation of eligibility for reservations can lead to legal action and cancellation of appointments.
• In Khedkar’s case, discrepancies in documents and allegations of false representation are under scrutiny.

Conclusion

The rules governing civil servants are crucial for maintaining the integrity and trust in public services. The case of Puja Khedkar underscores the need for strict adherence to these regulations to uphold the sanctity of civil services. Proper implementation and monitoring of these rules ensure accountability and prevent misuse of power.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Consider the following statements about the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC):
2. The UPSC is responsible for conducting examinations for appointments to the services of the Union.
3. The members of the UPSC are appointed by the President of India.
4. The recommendations made by the UPSC are binding on the government.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

ANSWER: A

EXPLANATION:

The UPSC is indeed responsible for conducting examinations for appointments to the services of the Union. Thus, statement 1 is correct.

The members of the UPSC are appointed by the President of India. Thus, statement 2 is correct.

The recommendations made by the UPSC are advisory in nature and not binding on the government. Thus, statement 3 is incorrect.

SC VERDICT ON ASSAM MAN: HUMANISING CITIZENSHIP LAWS 

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

The Supreme Court’s recent judgment declaring Assam resident Md Rahim Ali a citizen of India has significant implications for citizenship laws and the burden of proof in cases of alleged foreign nationality.

Facts of the Case

• Md Rahim Ali was born in Dolur village, Barpeta district, and appeared in the voters’ list of 1965.
• Discrepancies in documents led the Foreigners’ Tribunal (FT) to declare him a foreigner.
• The Supreme Court overturned this decision, reinforcing Ali’s citizenship status.

Key Judgments and Implications

Burden of Proof

• The SC clarified that the burden of proof lies on the person alleging someone to be a foreigner, as per Section 9 of the Foreigners Act, 1946.
• The FT had failed to provide adequate evidence against Ali, leading to the SC’s intervention.

Discrepancy in Spellings

• Minor discrepancies in spellings and dates in documents should not lead to drastic consequences.
• The judgment highlighted that casual errors by enumerators should not penalize individuals.

Principles of Justice

• Citing Mukesh Singh vs State (2020) and Noor Aga vs State of Punjab (2008), the SC emphasized that the initial burden of proof lies with the prosecution.
• The SC stressed that legal authorities must not initiate proceedings on arbitrary grounds.

Foreigners’ Tribunals

• Established under the Foreigners Act, 1946, to determine citizenship status.
• The judgment criticized FTs for procedural lapses and emphasized adherence to fair trial principles.

Conclusion

The SC’s verdict on Md Rahim Ali’s case reaffirms the importance of fair procedures in citizenship determinations. It underscores the necessity for concrete evidence and cautions against penalizing individuals for minor discrepancies in documents, thereby humanizing the application of citizenship laws.

INDIAN FLAPSHELL TURTLE 

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU 

The Indian flapshell turtle is a freshwater species found across South Asia. Known for its unique femoral flaps on the plastron, it serves as an evolutionary link between softshell and hard shell turtles.

Habitat and Distribution:

• Habitat: Prefers shallow, quiet waters like rivers, streams, and marshes with sandy or muddy bottoms.
• Distribution: Mainly found in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.

Lifestyle and Adaptations:

• Omnivorous diet and primarily solitary in behaviour.
• Active during the day and well-adapted to drought conditions.

Conservation Status and Threats:

• IUCN Red List: Classified as Vulnerable due to habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade.
• CITES: Listed under Appendix I for strict international trade regulations.
• Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Protected under Schedule I in India to curb exploitation.

Conservation Efforts:

• Initiatives by institutions like the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) to rehabilitate injured turtles.
• Community awareness programs to reduce habitat destruction and poaching.

WOLBACHIA BACTERIA AND ENCARSIA FORMOSA 

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

Wolbachia Bacteria: Common in insects worldwide, including butterflies and bees, Wolbachia doesn’t harm humans or animals.

Key Facts about Encarsia Formosa:

• Role in Agriculture: Encarsia formosa is a wasp crucial for controlling whiteflies, which damage plants by feeding on their sap.
• Life Cycle: These wasps lay eggs on whitefly nymphs. When the eggs hatch, the emerging larvae feed on the nymphs, eventually killing them.
• Effective Control: This parasitoid behavior makes female wasps effective biological agents against whiteflies, reducing agricultural losses.

Research Findings:

• Scientists from Shenyang Agricultural University demonstrated in Current Biology that Wolbachia can eliminate males from Encarsia formosa populations.
• This manipulation ensures that all offspring are female, enhancing the efficiency of whitefly control.

Significance in Agriculture:

• Encarsia formosa, with its modified reproductive strategy, offers sustainable and eco-friendly pest management.
• Understanding Wolbachia’s role could lead to further advancements in biological control methods, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.

BAGMATI RIVER 

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY – SOURCE: THE HINDU 

Bagmati River: Flows through Nepal and Bihar, India, revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike for its spiritual significance.

Course and Characteristics:

• Origin: Begins in the Shivapuri Hills of central Nepal, at an elevation of approximately 2,690 meters.
• Path: Fed by springs and monsoon rains, it passes through Kathmandu Valley and the Shivalik Range before entering the plains of Bihar.
• Tributaries: Receives water from numerous tributaries as it traverses through diverse physiographic zones of the Nepal Himalayas.

Cultural Importance:

• Holy Sites: Banks of the Bagmati River host temples like Pashupatinath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site revered in Hinduism.
• Spiritual Significance: Pilgrims consider it auspicious to perform rituals and ceremonies along its banks.

Flood Situation in Muzaffarpur:

• Recent rise in water levels due to monsoon rains has led to flooding in Bihar’s Muzaffarpur district.
• Floods pose risks to local communities and agriculture, highlighting the river’s dual role as a source of life and potential hazard during monsoon seasons.

SYPHILIS 

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS 

Syphilis: A sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum, capable of causing severe health issues if untreated.

Causes and Transmission:

• Cause: Spread primarily through sexual contact with an infected person.
• Transmission: Can also pass from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

Symptoms and Progression:

• Stages: Develops in stages, often starting with painless sores on genitals, rectum, or mouth.
• Subsequent Symptoms: May include swollen lymph nodes and a non-itchy skin rash on hands and feet.
• Latency: Can remain asymptomatic for years before recurring symptoms if untreated.
• Complications: Without treatment, syphilis can damage the heart, brain, muscles, bones, and eyes.

Treatment:

• Curability: Syphilis is treatable and curable with antibiotics, especially in early stages.
• Common Treatment: Penicillin is the preferred medication for curing syphilis effectively.