18-April-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

CONSUMER RIGHTS FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES 

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

World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated annually on March 15 to promote awareness about consumer rights. However, it often overlooks the challenges faced by consumers with disabilities. 

Struggles Faced by Consumers with Disabilities: 

• Persons with disabilities encounter difficulties accessing goods and services, which affects their dignity and independence. 
• Tasks like booking a cab or navigating a supermarket can be challenging due to inaccessibility. 
• Lack of accessible customer support options further exacerbates these challenges. 

Responsibility of Businesses and Governments: 

• Businesses and governments share responsibility for enhancing the consumer experience of persons with disabilities. 
• Currently, products and services are designed primarily for mainstream consumers, neglecting the needs of persons with disabilities. 
• Government interventions, such as advisories on accessibility like QR codes for food products, are steps in the right direction but need broader implementation. 

Legal Reforms Empowering Consumers with Disabilities: 

• The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPWDA), 2016, provides entitlements to equality, accessibility, and reasonable accommodation. 
• The Consumer Protection Act (CPA), 2019, empowers Consumer Commissions to impose penalties and award compensation but lacks dedicated rights for consumers with disabilities. 
• Consumer awareness about existing rights under these acts is crucial for effective utilization of legal avenues for redressal. 

Challenges and Recommendations for Change: 

• Disability Commissions issue recommendations, but stronger enforcement mechanisms are needed. 

• Aligning the CPA with RPWDA to integrate specific rights for consumers with disabilities can strengthen legal safeguards. 
• Educational campaigns should prioritize raising awareness among consumers with disabilities regarding their rights and the resources at their disposal. 

Addressing the challenges faced by consumers with disabilities is crucial for promoting inclusivity and equal access to goods and services. 

WHY HAS INDIA ALLOWED FIIS TO INVEST IN ITS GREEN BONDS? 

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY –SOURCE: THE HINDU 

RBI permitted Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) to invest in India’s Sovereign Green Bonds (SGrBs) on April 5. 

• SGrBs are government debt instruments aimed at funding projects to accelerate India’s transition to a low carbon economy. 

Impact on Green Transition: 

• Widens the capital pool available for India’s ambitious 2070 net zero goals. 
• Ensures funding for projects aiming to increase non-fossil fuel energy sources and reduce carbon intensity. 
• Create new investment opportunities  

GREEN BONDS 

Green bonds are debt instruments issued by governments, companies, or organizations to fund projects with environmental benefits. Examples include renewable energy, clean transportation, and sustainable infrastructure. 

Objective: 

• Mobilize resources for environmentally friendly projects. 
• Promote sustainable development and achieve climate goals (aligns with SDG 7 & 13). 

Key Points: 

• Introduced in India through the Union Budget 2022-23. 
• First Sovereign Green Bonds issued in January 2023. 
• Proceeds used for public sector projects aligned with India’s “Panchamrit” commitments at COP26 (climate action pledges). 
• Framework ensures transparency and accountability in green project selection and fund allocation. 

Benefits: 

• Promotes environmental sustainability. 
• Attracts environmentally conscious investors. 
• Supports India’s transition to a low-carbon economy. 

Previous Bond Issuance: 

• RBI issued SGrBs worth ₹16,000 crore in January and February last year. 
• Mainly subscribed by domestic financial institutions and banks, limiting borrowing avenues for the government. 

Financial Implications: 

• SGrBs offer lower interest rates compared to conventional Government-Securities (G-Secs). 
• Banks investing in SGrBs forego interest, termed as a greenium, but align with global trends promoting green investments. 

Role of FIIs: 

• FIIs seek to diversify green investments, benefiting from regulatory support. 
• India’s transparent Sovereign Green Bonds Framework attracts FIIs looking to gain green credentials. 

FOREIGN INSTITUTIONAL INVESTORS (FIIS) 

Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) are entities like insurance companies, pension funds, and sovereign wealth funds from outside the country investing in the financial markets of another nation. 

• FIIs play a significant role in providing liquidity and capital to the host country’s financial markets, thereby contributing to economic growth and development. 

Impact on Financial Markets: 

• FIIs’ investments can influence the host country’s stock, bond, and currency markets, leading to price fluctuations and volatility. 
• They bring in foreign capital, which can strengthen the host country’s currency and boost investor confidence. 

Regulatory Considerations: 

• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) regulates the share of Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) in Indian companies. 
• As per SEBI regulations, the maximum limit for FII investment in Indian companies is determined by the sectoral cap set by the government or the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). 

Emphasis on identifying new green projects with high impact and credible audit trails to optimally utilize funds.Importance of deploying proceeds to areas with limited private capital, such as Distributed Renewable Energy and clean energy transition for MSMEs. 

REFORMS NEEDED IN THE VOTING PROCESS 

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

Activists have raised concerns about the susceptibility of EVMs to hacking due to their electronic nature. 

• Doubts have been expressed regarding the transparency and integrity of the voting process, especially regarding the accuracy of vote counting. 
• EVMs were introduced on a trial basis in 1982 in the Paravur Assembly constituency in Kerala. 
• They were fully deployed in Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Puducherry, and West Bengal in 2001. 

International Practices: 

• Many western democracies still use paper ballots for elections, while some countries like Brazil utilize EVMs. 
• Countries like England, France, and the U.S. have discontinued the use of EVMs for national elections after trials in the last two decades. 
• Germany’s Supreme Court declared the use of EVMs unconstitutional in 2009. 

Features and Advantages of EVMs: 

• EVMs have significantly reduced the incidence of booth capturing and eliminated invalid votes. 
• They are eco-friendly, reduce paper consumption, and streamline the counting process. 
• Mechanisms like random allocation of EVMs, mock polls, and sharing of EVM serial numbers ensure integrity. 

Proposed Solutions: 

• Scientific approach to determine the sample size for matching EVM counts with VVPAT slips. 
• Implementing “totaliser” machines would aggregate votes prior to disclosing candidate-specific counts, improving both voter anonymity and confidence in the electoral process. 

• These measures aim to make the voting process more transparent, robust, and trustworthy for all citizens. 

X SAYS IT TOOK DOWN FOUR POSTS AS PER EC DIRECTIVE 

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

Election Commission (EC) issued a takedown order to social media platform X regarding four posts by leaders of different political parties. 

• X disagreed with the takedown order, asserting that freedom of expression should extend to political speech, but complied with the order in India while allowing visibility from non-Indian connections. 

 Proactive Disclosure: 

• This incident marks the first time since April 2023 that X has proactively disclosed a takedown notice from India to the public. 
• Previously, X stopped publishing summaries of such orders but selectively disclosed government takedowns through its global affairs team. 

Reason for Takedown: 

• The EC cited a prohibition on campaigners targeting their rivals’ personal lives during politicking as the reason for the takedown. 
• One of the posts by the AAP featured a headline from an online news portal accusing the Prime Minister and added a derogatory caption over an edited image, which violated EC’s guidelines. 

POWERS OF ELECTION COMMISSION OF INDIA 

• Holding elections at different levels, such as the Lok Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, and local governing bodies. 
• Enforcing the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) to ensure fair and free elections, regulating the conduct of political parties and candidates during election campaigns. 
• Delimiting constituencies to ensure equal representation, periodically reviewing and readjusting boundaries based on demographic changes. 
• Registering political parties, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and criteria to participate in elections. 
• Monitoring election expenditure by candidates and political parties, imposing limits and penalties for violations to maintain transparency. 
• Granting recognition to political parties based on their performance in elections, determining their eligibility for privileges like reserved symbols. 
• Disqualifying candidates for electoral malpractices or violations of electoral laws. 

• Conducting voter education programs to promote awareness and participation in the electoral process, ensuring informed decision-making by voters. 
• Resolving electoral disputes and complaints through quasi-judicial mechanisms, ensuring electoral integrity and fairness. 

MISSING COLLEGES 

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

In 2003, the Centre announced the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) to bridge the gap between demand and supply in healthcare by establishing AIIMS-like institutions across India. 

• Six AIIMS-like medical institutions were created in 2006, with a total of 20 institutions currently functional and three under development. 

Implementation Challenges at AIIMS Madurai: 

• Despite intentions to expand healthcare education beyond metros, AIIMS Madurai faces persistent complaints of inadequate infrastructure, facilities, and manpower constraints. 
• Construction delays have led to student protests and a contentious issue during the 2021 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. 

 Impact on Students: 

• Three batches of undergraduate students have been accommodated at nearby Government Medical College and Hospital due to incomplete construction. 
• Approximately 150 students have been affected by the delays, impacting their education and experience. 

Political Implications: 

• The delay in AIIMS construction became a significant issue during the 2021 Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, with politicians highlighting the lack of progress. 
• Despite assurances of completion, concerns remain regarding the quality of education and infrastructure provided by AIIMS Madurai. 

Role of Centre and State: 

• The Centre and State must collaborate to ensure that medical institutions like AIIMS can provide high-quality education and facilities. 
• It is essential to address the doctor-population ratio, especially in rural areas, by prioritizing timely and efficient implementation of healthcare projects. 

Hospitals primarily come under the State List in India.  

• However, certain aspects related to hospitals, such as medical education and research institutes, may fall under the Concurrent List, allowing both the Central and State governments to legislate on them. 
• The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, is the primary governing body responsible for AIIMS institutions. Additionally, the AIIMS Act, 1956, provides a legal framework for the establishment and functioning of AIIMS colleges in India. 

FY24: NEW PRIVATE INVESTMENTS DIP 15%; STATES LEAD CAPEX RISE’ 

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY –SOURCE: THE HINDU 

Private sector investment plans dropped by 15.3%, while foreign investors slashed new outlays by almost a third, resulting in a nearly 5% decrease in the overall value of new investment announcements in India from the previous year. 

Sector-wise Analysis: 

• Manufacturing sector witnessed a significant decline of 40% in proposed outlays. 
• Irrigation and mining investments also saw sharp drops of 48.7% and 19.25%. electricity and infrastructure sectors experienced upticks of 96% and 22%, respectively. 

State-wise Distribution: 

• State governments led the capex growth, with a 27% increase in new investment projects, totaling almost ₹7.69 lakh crore. 
• Maharashtra attracted the highest number of new projects with proposed outlays of almost ₹8 lakh crore, followed by Gujarat and Odisha. 

 Impact on Rankings 

• Andhra Pradesh (AP) witnessed a significant drop in investments, ranking ninth in FY24 with ₹1.06 lakh crore, compared to being the top recipient in 2022-23. 
• Gujarat retained its second position 
•  Odisha rose to third despite a drop in investment value. 
• Tamil Nadu’s rank surged from eighth to fifth, attracting commitments of ₹2.71 lakh crore 

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE 

The government has set a record target of ₹11.11 lakh crore ($166.6 billion) for capital expenditure in the fiscal year 2024-25, representing an 11.1% increase from the previous year. 

CapEx can boost an economy by: 

Improving production: New equipment and infrastructure lead to better efficiency and output. 

Creating jobs: Construction, installation, and other activities create employment opportunities. 

Enhancing competitiveness: Businesses become more competitive with lower costs and better products. 

However, there are downsides: 

Higher interest rates: Government borrowing can raise borrowing costs for businesses. 

Reduced private investment: Big government projects might use resources businesses could have used. 

Debt burden: High CapEx can lead to increased debt that future generations must repay.  

India is pushing to restart discussions at the WTO concerning a permanent solution for public stockholding subsidies, which are vital for programs like the Minimum Support Price (MSP).  

India’s Proposal: 

• India is urging WTO members to reconsider the joint proposal by the G33-African Group-ACP Group on public stockholding. 
• India emphasizes that negotiations on this issue should be separate from discussions on domestic support. 

Disappointment and Call for Action: 

• India expressed deep disappointment over the failure to reach an agreement on a permanent solution for public stockholding at MC13. 
• India urges WTO members to fulfill the mandate pending since the 2013 Bali Ministerial Decision. 

 THE AGREEMENT ON AGRICULTURE (AOA) 

The Agreement on Agriculture (AoA) was established as part of the Uruguay Round of trade negotiations and came into force in 1995. 

Objectives: 

• To promote fair competition in agricultural trade, improve market access, and reduce trade-distorting subsidies. 

Three Pillars: 

• The AoA is based on three main pillars: market access, domestic support, and export competition. 

Market Access: 

• Market access aims to reduce tariff barriers and quotas, allowing greater access to agricultural markets. 
• Countries are required to provide “bound” tariff rates, which are maximum levels of tariffs they can apply. 

Domestic Support: 

• measures that support domestic agricultural production, including subsidies and price support programs,EG MSP. 
• The AoA categorizes domestic support into three “boxes” – green, blue, and amber – based on their trade-distorting effects.

POMPEII 

TOPIC: (GS1) HISTORY –SOURCE: TIMES OF INDIA 

Recent archaeological discoveries in Pompeii include a black-walled banqueting hall adorned with vivid frescoes depicting scenes from Greek mythology. 

About Pompeii: 

• Pompeii is an ancient Roman city near Naples, Italy, situated at the base of Mount Vesuvius. 
• Originally settled in the Bronze Age, Pompeii grew into a thriving city known for trade and agriculture. 
• The city’s population was estimated at 10-12,000, including a significant slave population. 
• Pompeii boasted advanced infrastructure, such as a municipal water system, an amphitheater, and a gymnasium. 
• In 79 CE, Pompeii was buried in volcanic ash during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, preserving it for centuries. 
• Rediscovered in 1748, Pompeii provides valuable insights into Roman daily life due to its exceptional preservation. 
• Pompeii is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from around the world. 

EXERCISE DUSTLIK 

TOPIC: (GS3) SECURITY –SOURCE: NEWS9 

Exercise DUSTLIK is a Annual collaborative military training event involving the Indian Army and the Uzbekistan Army. 

About Exercise DUSTLIK: 

• It alternates between being held in India and Uzbekistan. 

• The inaugural edition was held in Uzbekistan in November 2019, with the most recent edition taking place in Pithoragarh, India, in February 2023. 
• The fifth edition, Dustlik-2024, is scheduled to be held in Termez, Uzbekistan. 
• The Indian contingent consists of 60 personnel, with 45 from the Indian Army, primarily from the JAT Regiment, and 15 from the Indian Air Force. 
• The Uzbekistan contingent comprises approximately 100 personnel from the Uzbekistan Army and Air Force, represented by personnel from the Southern Operational Command. 
• The primary objective of Exercise DUSTLIK is to enhance military cooperation and combined capabilities for joint operations in mountainous and semi-urban terrain. 
• The exercise focuses on physical fitness, joint planning, tactical drills, and special arms skills. 
• The complexity of Dustlik-2024 is increased with the inclusion of personnel from combat support arms and services in addition to infantry. 

BUMBLEBEES 

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT –SOURCE: SCIENCE DAILY 

Bumblebees are large, hairy bees belonging to the family Apidae, which also includes honey bees and other types of bees. 

• They are distributed worldwide but are most common in temperate climates, with over 250 known species primarily found in the Northern Hemisphere. 
• Known for their ability to collect nectar from flowers and pollinate plants, bumblebees are essential for ecosystem health. 
• Bumblebees are typically large, with yellow and black coloration, though there is variation among species, with some having red, yellow, and black bands. 
• They have stocky bodies covered in hairs that attract pollen, and their wings beat rapidly at 130-240 beats per second. 
• Bumblebees are social insects living in colonies with specific roles for the queen, drones, and worker bees. 
• Unlike honeybees, bumblebees do not produce honey; instead, new queens hibernate over winter and establish new nests in the spring. 

KEROGEN 

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

Kerogen is a natural organic material found in rocky underground formations, primarily serving as the source of hydrocarbons. 

• It constitutes about 90% of the organic carbon in sediments and is insoluble in organic solvents. 
• Kerogen is typically composed of organic constituents such as algae and woody plant material. 
• It can expel hydrocarbons when subjected to thermal cracking processes. 
• Kerogen contains both lighter and heavier hydrocarbons and acts as a precursor to oil and natural gas. 
• There are three main types of kerogens: Type I, Type II, and Type III, each originating from different sources like algae, mixed terrestrial and marine material, and woody terrestrial material, respectively. 
• The types of kerogens present in a rock determine the type of hydrocarbons generated, with variations in hydrogen content influencing oil vs. gas yields. 
• Kerogen undergoes transformation into bitumen during petroleum generation processes, contributing to the formation of hydrocarbons. 

GAIA-BH3 

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY –SOURCE: TIMES OF INDIA 

Gaia-BH3 is the most massive stellar black hole found in the Milky Way galaxy. 

• Astronomers identified it through data from the European Space Agency’s Gaia mission. 
• It was detected due to the peculiar motion it imposes on its orbiting companion star. 

Confirmation of Mass 

• Researchers used ground-based observatories including the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope in Chile’s Atacama Desert to confirm Gaia-BH3’s mass. 
• It has a mass approximately 33 times that of the Sun. 
• Gaia-BH3 is located 1,926 light-years away in the Aquila constellation, making it the second-closest black hole to Earth. 

Comparison with Other Black Holes 

• The closest black hole, Gaia BH1, is located about 1,500 light-years away and has a mass nearly 10 times that of the Sun. 

• The most massive black hole in the Milky Way galaxy is Sagittarius A*, a supermassive black hole at the galaxy’s center with a mass about 4 million times that of the Sun. 

Stellar Black Hole vs Supermassive Black Hole 

• Stellar-mass black holes form from the gravitational collapse of a single star or the merger of two neutron stars. 
• They typically have masses ranging from about 3 to 50 times that of the Sun. 
• In contrast, supermassive black holes have a mass greater than about 50,000 times that of the Sun and are typically millions to billions of times the mass of the Sun. 
• Supermassive black holes are always located at the center of galaxies, while stellar-mass black holes are scattered throughout the galaxy.