17-August-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

J&K ELECTION TO BE HELD IN THREE PHASES

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

The Election Commission (EC) has announced that the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Assembly election will be held in three phases from September 18 to October 1, 2024, marking the first Assembly polls in the region since the revocation of Article 370 in 2019.

Election Dates:

• J&K: September 18, 25, and October 1, 2024
• Haryana: October 1, 2024
• Counting of Votes: October 4, 2024, for both J&K and Haryana.

Background and Context

J&K Assembly Polls:

• Last Assembly elections were held in 2014.
• The Supreme Court had directed that the polls be conducted by September 30, 2024.
• The election requires extensive deployment of Central and State police forces.
• Voter turnout in the 2019 Lok Sabha election saw a 30-point increase.

Haryana Assembly Polls:

• The current Assembly term ends on November 3, 2024.
• Key dates for nominations:
• Last date for filing: September 12
• Scrutiny: September 13
• Withdrawal: September 16

The Model Code of Conduct (MCC)

Definition: The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is a set of guidelines and norms to ensure free, fair, and peaceful elections. It is agreed upon by political parties and enforced by the Election Commission of India (ECI) under Article 324 of the Constitution.

Objectives:

• Ensure that political parties and candidates adhere to ethical practices.
• Prevent misuse of official machinery during elections.
• Curtail electoral offenses, malpractices, and corrupt practices.
• Maintain a level playing field for all political entities.

Historical Background

• Origin: The MCC originated in Kerala during the 1960 Assembly elections, initially as a ‘Code of Conduct’ prepared by the State Administration.

Evolution:

• In 1962, the ECI circulated the code to recognized political parties and State governments during the Lok Sabha elections.
• Between 1962 and 1991, the ECI refined the code to address corrupt practices and prevent misuse of power by the ruling party.
• Renamed as the MCC, it became more stringent but remained without legal backing.
• Post-1991, under Chief Election Commissioner T.N. Seshan, the MCC was strictly enforced using constitutional powers.
• In 2013, the Supreme Court directed the ECI to include guidelines on election manifestos, implemented in the 2014 elections.

Significant Provisions

• General Conduct: Prohibits activities that may create tension between different communities, criticism confined to policies, and forbids the use of places of worship for election propaganda.
• Meetings and Processions: Requires prior notification to local police for maintaining law and order.
• Polling Day and Booth: Ensures peaceful conduct at polling booths and restricts access to authorized persons only.
• Party in Power: Prohibits the ruling party from using its position for electoral advantage.

Issues with MCC

• Enforcement: MCC is not legally enforceable, limiting the ECI’s power to ensure compliance.
• New Malpractices: The rise of technology and social media has introduced new challenges, including voter manipulation.
• Weak Response: The ECI’s delayed actions against violations have emboldened political actors.
• Lack of Disqualification Power: The ECI cannot disqualify candidates or deregister political parties for violations.

Suggested Reforms

• Legal Enforcement: The MCC should be made legally binding and included in the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
• Use of Technology: Implement AI-based systems to monitor and prevent MCC violations on social media.
• ECI Independence: Strengthen the independence of the ECI, akin to the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), for effective MCC implementation.

Conclusion

The upcoming Assembly elections in J&K and Haryana are significant, with logistical and security preparations being key concerns. These elections will play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of the regions.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. The Election Commission of India is responsible for which of the following?
2. Conducting elections to the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
3. Conducting elections to the offices of President and Vice-President of India.
4. Conducting elections to the Legislative Assemblies of States and Union Territories.
5. Supervising the elections to Panchayats and Municipalities.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

ANSWER: A

EXPLANATION

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is responsible for:

Conducting elections to the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and State Legislative Assemblies.

Conducting elections for the offices of the President and Vice-President of India.

However, elections to Panchayats and Municipalities are supervised by State Election Commissions, not the ECI.

ISRO’S SSLV SUCCESSFULLY LAUNCHES EARTH OBSERVATION SATELLITE INTO ORBIT

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the EOS-08 Earth Observation Satellite on August 11, 2023, using the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV-D3). This mission marked the third developmental flight of the SSLV and demonstrated significant technological advancements.

Launch Details: SSLV-D3 lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota at 9:17 a.m. and successfully placed EOS-08 into a 475-km circular Low Earth Orbit (LEO) after 17 minutes of flight.

EOS-08 Satellite

Technological Advancements: EOS-08 is built on ISRO’s Microsat/IMS-1 bus and incorporates several cutting-edge technologies, including an Integrated Avionics system, flexible solar panels, and a Nano star sensor.

Payloads:

Electro Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR): Provides imaging in the Mid-Wave IR (MIR) and Long-Wave IR (LWIR) bands for applications such as disaster monitoring, environmental surveillance, and fire detection.

Global Navigation Satellite System — Reflectometry (GNSS-R): Demonstrates remote sensing capabilities for ocean surface winds, soil moisture, flood detection, and cryosphere studies.

The Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)

Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) is a cost-effective and flexible launch vehicle developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to cater to the growing demand for launching small satellites.

• Configuration: Three-stage solid propulsion system with a liquid propulsion-based Velocity Trimming Module (VTM) for final orbit adjustments.
• Payload Capacity: Capable of launching satellites up to 500 kg into a 500 km planar orbit.
• Dimensions: Relatively small with a diameter of 2 meters and a height of 34 meters.
• Launch Infrastructure: Requires minimal launch infrastructure, reducing operational costs.
• Turnaround Time: Designed for rapid turnaround, enabling frequent launches.
• Flexibility: Can accommodate multiple satellites in a single launch.

EARTH OBSERVATION SATELLITES (EOS) Earth Observation Satellites (EOS) are advanced spacecraft equipped with remote sensing technology to gather critical data about our planet. They provide invaluable insights into Earth’s physical, chemical, and biological systems. Key Features and Applications ·       Remote Sensing Technology: EOS utilize sophisticated instruments to capture data from space, without physical contact with the Earth’s surface. ·       Data Collection: They measure various parameters like land cover, vegetation health, ocean temperature, atmospheric conditions, and more. ·       Orbital Paths: Many EOS are placed in sun-synchronous orbits to ensure consistent data collection across different parts of the globe. ·       Applications: EOS serve a multitude of purposes, including disaster management, climate monitoring, agriculture, oceanography, and cartography. Indian Contributions ·       Resourcesat series: For land and water resources monitoring. ·       Cartosat series: For cartographic applications and mapping. ·       RISAT series: For radar imaging and disaster management.

Conclusion

The SSLV-D3 mission showcases ISRO’s continued strides in satellite launch technology, particularly in deploying small satellites with advanced payloads for diverse applications. With a mission life of one year, EOS-08 is expected to contribute significantly to satellite-based monitoring and data collection.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. With reference to ISRO’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), consider the following statements:
2. SSLV is designed to launch satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
3. SSLV can carry payloads up to 500 kg.
4. SSLV is primarily used for launching communication satellites.

Which of the above statements is/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:

SSLV is designed to launch small satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

SSLV can carry payloads up to 500 kg.

SSLV is not primarily used for launching communication satellites; it is designed for launching small satellites, including earth observation and scientific missions.

IMPACT OF SCARCE RAINFALL ON THE PANAMA CANAL OPERATIONS

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY– SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Panama Canal, a vital maritime route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, is facing operational challenges due to reduced rainfall. This climatic change poses a significant threat to global shipping.

Operational Mechanism:

• Water Elevators: The canal functions as a water elevator, lifting ships to higher levels to cross the Isthmus of Panama.
• Lock Systems: The locks use gravity-fed water from the Gatun Lake to raise and lower ships, which is crucial for the canal’s operation.

Challenges Due to Scarce Rainfall:

• Lower Water Levels: Reduced rainfall has lowered water levels in the Gatun Lake, which directly impacts the locks’ efficiency.
• Decreased Traffic: The canal’s capacity has dropped from 36-38 ships per day to around 32, with further reductions likely.
• Environmental Impact: The scarcity of rainfall has also led to increased salinity in the water, affecting over 4.5 million people relying on the canal’s water.

Proposed Solutions:

• New Reservoirs: Authorities propose constructing a new reservoir by damming the Rio Indio River to secure a reliable water source.

PANAMA CANAL ·       Overview: A man-made waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans across the Isthmus of Panama. ·       Length: Approximately 80 kilometers. ·       Construction: Built by the United States between 1904 and 1914; opened on August 15, 1914. ·       Current Ownership: Managed by Panama since 1999. ·       Structure: Features a series of locks to raise and lower ships, overcoming the continental divide. Isthmus ·       Definition: A narrow strip of land connecting two larger landmasses, bordered by water on two sides. ·       Etymology: Derived from the Greek word isthmós, meaning “neck.” ·       Examples: Isthmus of Panama (links North and South America) and Isthmus of Suez (separates Africa from Asia).

Conclusion:

The ongoing water crisis in the Panama Canal is a stark reminder of the broader impacts of climate change. Sustainable solutions are essential to ensure the canal’s future functionality and the global trade it supports.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Which of the following statements correctly describe the geographical features of Gulf, Isthmus, and Bay?
2. Gulf: A gulf is a large area of sea partially enclosed by land, typically having a narrow mouth.
3. Isthmus: An isthmus is a broad, elevated landform connecting two larger land masses, surrounded by water on both sides.
4. Bay: A bay is a wide, coastal indentation of the sea, usually more open than a gulf.

Select the correct answer using the codes below:

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

ANSWER: C

EXPLANATION:

Gulf – A gulf is indeed a large area of sea partly enclosed by land with a narrower opening.

An isthmus is a narrow strip of land connecting two larger landmasses, not a broad elevated landform.

Bay -A Bay is a wide indentation of the sea, often more open compared to a gulf.

WHY ILLEGAL MINING IN THE ARAVALLI HILLS SHOULD SCARE DELHI AND ITS NEIGHBOURS

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY– SOURCE: THE HINDU

The Aravali range is a vital mountain chain in India, stretching from Gujarat to Delhi through Rajasthan.

• It faces serious threats from illegal mining, deforestation, and human encroachments.
• These activities are causing environmental degradation, loss of biodiversity, and depletion of groundwater.

Geographic and Ecological Significance

• The Aravali range spans 692 km, with varying widths from 10 km to 120 km.
• It forms a natural barrier between the Thar Desert and the Gangetic Plain, with the highest peak, Guru Shikhar, at 1,722 meters.
• Rajasthan accounts for 80% of the range, while Haryana, Delhi, and Gujarat cover the remaining 20%.

Findings from Recent Studies

• A study presented at the IUFRO World Conference noted a 0.9% decrease in forest area between 1999 and 2019, leading to a loss of 705 sq. km of dry deciduous forest.
• Human settlements in the region have grown significantly, from 4.5% in 1975 to 13.3% in 2019.

Impact and Recommendations

• Positive carbon flux is observed in areas with higher rainfall, like the upper and lower Aravali, while the central Aravali shows negative flux due to proximity to the Thar Desert.
• Protected areas like Todgarh-Raoli and Kumbhalgarh help maintain ecological balance.
• LiDAR-based surveys, a ban on mining, and establishing an Aravali Development Authority are essential to protect the range’s biodiversity and ecological balance.

SEVEN DECADES AFTER INDEPENDENCE, THE UNFULFILLED DREAMS OF INDIA’S WOMEN

TOPIC: (GS2) SOCIETY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

Women’s safety in India is a pressing concern, highlighted by numerous incidents of violence, including the recent tragic event involving a 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

The incident not only reignited the nation’s concerns about women’s safety but also brought to light the systemic issues that contribute to such violence.

The problem is rooted in deep-seated social, cultural, and structural factors that need to be addressed urgently.

Key Reasons Behind Lack of Women’s Safety in India

Prevalence of Patriarchy

• Deep-rooted Patriarchal Beliefs: India’s society is heavily influenced by patriarchal norms that often place men in positions of power and privilege, reinforcing gender inequality.
• Normalization of Male Dominance: There is a societal tendency to excuse or downplay male misconduct, exemplified by attitudes like “boys will be boys,” which trivialize serious offenses against women.
• Impact on Violence: This mindset perpetuates a culture where violence against women is tolerated or even justified, leading to increased incidents of abuse.

Objectification of Women

• Media Representation: The portrayal of women in movies, advertisements, and other forms of media often reduces them to mere objects of desire, emphasizing physical appearance over character or intellect.
• Consequences: This objectification fosters an environment where women are dehumanized, making it easier for society to ignore or condone harassment and violence against them.
• Cultural Impact: The widespread acceptance of such portrayals in media normalizes the disrespect and mistreatment of women, contributing to a culture of gender-based violence.

Cultural Stigma

• Fear of Social Backlash: Cultural stigmas surrounding issues like sexual harassment and violence deter many women from reporting crimes, fearing judgment or ostracization from their communities.
• Underreporting of Crimes: The societal pressure to maintain family honor or avoid bringing “shame” often leads to crimes against women being swept under the rug, allowing perpetrators to go unpunished.
• Victim Blaming: Women who do come forward are frequently blamed for the violence they endure, further discouraging others from seeking justice.

Economic Dependency

• Feminization of Poverty: Women, particularly in lower socio-economic groups, often lack financial independence, which exacerbates their vulnerability to domestic violence and other forms of abuse.
• Dependency on Male Relatives: Economic reliance on male family members can trap women in abusive situations, as they may feel they have no means of escape or survival without financial support.
• Impact on Safety: The lack of economic power hinders women’s ability to make decisions about their own safety, leaving them more exposed to violence.

Lack of Awareness and Education

• Limited Knowledge of Rights: Many women are unaware of the legal protections available to them, such as the Domestic Violence Act or the Sexual Harassment Act, due to low levels of education and awareness.
• Cultural Silence: In many communities, discussing issues related to gender-based violence is taboo, further preventing women from seeking information or help.
• Consequences: This lack of awareness perpetuates a cycle of violence, as women are less likely to report abuse or seek justice without knowing their rights.

Inadequate Safety in Public Spaces

• Poor Infrastructure: Public places often lack basic safety features, such as proper lighting, surveillance cameras, and secure transportation options, which increases the risk of crimes against women.
• Examples of Failure: Incidents like the Nirbhaya case in Delhi and the recent Kolkata hospital case underscore the dangers posed by inadequate public safety measures.
• Systemic Neglect: Despite repeated incidents, there is often a lack of urgency in addressing these safety issues, leaving women vulnerable in public spaces.

Conclusion

• Need for Systemic Change: Addressing the issue of women’s safety requires a comprehensive approach that tackles the root causes, including patriarchal attitudes, economic dependency, and inadequate infrastructure.
• Importance of Education and Awareness: Educating women about their rights and promoting gender equality from a young age can help shift societal norms and reduce violence.
• Role of Legislation and Enforcement: Stronger laws, coupled with effective enforcement and public infrastructure improvements, are essential to ensuring that women feel safe and protected in all environments.
• Empowerment through Self-Defense: Initiatives to provide self-defense training and other protective measures can empower women to take charge of their own safety, reducing their vulnerability to violence.

RIGHT TO EDUCATION (RTE) ACT

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

The Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, is a landmark legislation that guarantees free and compulsory education for children in India under Article 21A of the Constitution. It aims to provide every child with quality elementary education and set minimum standards for schools to ensure equitable access to education. Despite its ambitious goals, the implementation of the RTE Act faces several challenges that have hindered its full realization.

Key Provisions of the RTE Act

• Free and Compulsory Education: The RTE Act mandates that all children aged 6 to 14 years have the right to free and compulsory education.
• Accessibility of Schools: Schools must be located within a reasonable distance from the child’s residence to ensure ease of access.
• Teacher Standards: The Act emphasizes the need for adequate teachers and mandates that teachers must pass the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) to ensure quality education.
• Teacher Qualifications: The National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) has set the minimum qualifications required for teaching positions in classes I to VIII.
• Exclusion of Minority Institutions: The RTE Act does not apply to minority institutions, allowing them certain exemptions.

Challenges in Implementing the RTE Act

Despite its intentions, the RTE Act has encountered significant resistance and challenges in its implementation, particularly in ensuring inclusive education.

Resistance to Socio-Economic Integration

• EWS Reservation: One of the RTE Act’s key provisions is the reservation of 25% seats in private unaided schools for children from economically weaker sections (EWS). This provision aimed to foster socio-economic integration.
• Private Schools’ Resistance: Many private schools have resisted this mandate, viewing it as an infringement on their autonomy. Some schools have sought legal and political avenues to circumvent this requirement, undermining the Act’s objective of inclusive education.

State Government’s Lack of Commitment

• Case Example: The Maharashtra government’s attempt to bypass the EWS reservation by arguing that it should not apply if a government school is within a one-kilometer radius demonstrates a lack of commitment to the RTE.
• Wider Impact: This attitude reflects broader systemic issues that hinder the Act’s implementation across various states.

Challenges in Teacher Training

• Inadequate Training: Teacher training remains one of the weakest aspects of the RTE Act’s implementation. The lack of interest in effective training programs has significantly undermined the quality of education.
• Weakening Amendments: Over time, amendments to the RTE Act have diluted its provisions, weakening the overall impact of the legislation.

The Way Forward

Judicial Intervention

• Bombay High Court Verdict: The recent verdict by the Bombay High Court, which upheld the RTE provisions, is a positive step towards ensuring the Act’s implementation. It sets a precedent that challenges similar practices in states like Karnataka and Punjab, where access to private schools for EWS students is restricted.

Strengthening the RTE Act

• Need for Commitment: It is essential for state governments to commit fully to the RTE Act’s provisions, ensuring that the law is applied uniformly and effectively.
• Focus on Quality Education: Enhancing teacher training and maintaining the integrity of the Act’s provisions are crucial steps to realizing the RTE’s vision of inclusive and quality education for all children.

BHAVISHYA

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE– SOURCE: PIB

“Bhavishya” is a software developed by the Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DOPPW) to improve the pension processing system for central government employees. Launched on January 1, 2017, it ensures efficient and timely pension management.

Key Features

• Centralized System: Bhavishya is a centralized platform that streamlines the entire pension process, from registration to pension payment orders (PPOs).
• Automated Processes: It integrates with payroll systems for auto-filling data and allows retirees to self-register and fill out forms, enhancing user convenience.
• Timely Processing: With automated calculations and real-time updates, 83% of PPOs are now issued on time.
• Digital Integration: The software is fully digitized, connected to Digilocker for document storage, and linked with bank portals to provide seamless post-retirement services.

Impact

Bhavishya has significantly reduced processing delays, improved transparency, and ensured that central government employees receive their pensions promptly and efficiently.

CALIFORNIUM

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY– SOURCE: PIB

Californium is a synthetic, silvery-white radioactive metal with the atomic number 98 on the periodic table. It was first created in 1950 by scientists at the University of California, Berkeley, and is named after the state of California and the university.

Properties

• Synthetic Element: Californium does not occur naturally and is produced by bombarding curium with helium ions.
• Radioactivity: It is highly radioactive, making it both valuable and hazardous.
• Isotopes: Notable isotopes include Cf-251, with a half-life of 898 years, and Cf-249 and Cf-250, with shorter half-lives.
• Actinide Series: It belongs to the actinide series in the periodic table.

Applications

• Neutron Emitter: Californium is a powerful neutron emitter used in various industrial and scientific applications.
• Detection Tools: It helps in detecting metal fatigue in airplanes, identifying gold and silver ores, and finding oil and water layers in wells.
• Nuclear and Medical Use: The element is used to start nuclear reactors, optimize coal power plants, and treat certain types of cancer.
• Radiography and Gold Prospecting: It is also employed in radiography and as a neutron source in other industrial processes.

BIOSURFACTANTS

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONEMNT– SOURCE: THE HINDU

Biosurfactants are surface-active molecules produced by microorganisms that play a crucial role in various biological processes, such as microbial attachment and motility. They are eco-friendly and considered safe for human consumption, making them suitable for use in the food industry.

Features

• Microbial Source: Derived from various microorganisms, biosurfactants exhibit high emulsification, solubilization, and foaming properties.
• Stability: These molecules are stable across a wide range of pH, temperature, and salinity, making them ideal for food applications.
• Safety: As non-toxic biomolecules, biosurfactants are considered safe for inclusion in food products.

Applications

• Food Industry: Biosurfactants are used in bakeries and salad dressings, as well as in food products to prevent spoilage and act as natural antioxidants.
• Heavy Metal Removal: They help in removing heavy metals from vegetables and boosting immunity in fish by protecting against pathogens.
• Surfactants: These molecules create emulsions between oil and water, improving shelf life and moisture retention in food products.

Issues

• Synthetic Additives: The overuse of synthetic surfactants in food has caused health concerns, including gut-related disorders and disruptions to the body’s microbiome.