18-March-2025-Daily-Current-Affairs

ELECTORAL REFORMS: NEED FOR STRENGTHENING DEMOCRACY

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has invited political parties to discuss improvements in the election system, following concerns over electoral roll manipulation, duplicate voter IDs, and demands for better transparency in the voting process.

Importance of Electoral Reforms

• Electoral reforms are crucial for ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections, which are the foundation of a democratic system.
• Strengthening the election process can prevent fraud, reduce money power, and improve public trust in democracy.

Challenges in the Voting and Counting Process

• Demand for Paper Ballots: Some groups demand a return to paper ballots, claiming Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are unreliable. However, the Supreme Court dismissed this plea in April 2024.
• Concerns Over VVPAT-EVM Matching: There have been calls for 100% verification of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips with EVM votes. The Supreme Court ruled for random checks of 5% of EVMs if suspicion arises.
• Electoral Roll Manipulation: Allegations of fake voter entries have emerged in recent assembly elections. Opposition parties claim systematic irregularities in voter lists.

Legal Framework Governing Elections

• Article 324: Grants the ECI authority over election management, including voter rolls and poll conduct.
• Representation of the People Act, 1950: Regulates voter registration and electoral roll preparation.
• Registration of Electors Rules, 1960: Defines procedures for electoral roll management.

Evolution of the Voting System in India

• 1952 & 1957: Separate ballot boxes for each candidate; voters dropped blank ballots into chosen boxes.
• 1962: Introduction of ballot papers with candidate names and symbols.
• 2004: EVMs used in all constituencies for elections.
• 2019: EVMs accompanied by 100% VVPAT verification slips for added transparency.

Challenges in the Election Campaign Process

• Unethical Campaigning: Some political leaders use offensive language and exploit caste or religious sentiments for votes.
• Excessive Election Spending: Political campaigns exceed legal spending limits, with no cap on party expenses. The 2024 Lok Sabha elections saw an estimated ₹1,00,000 crore in election-related spending.
• Criminalization of Politics: In 2024, 46% of Lok Sabha MPs had pending criminal cases, including 31% with serious charges like murder and kidnapping.

Proposed Reforms in the Election Process

• Enhancing EVM and VVPAT Transparency: The sample size for EVM-VVPAT matching should be regionally determined. If mismatches are found, all VVPAT slips in that region should be verified. ‘Totaliser’ machines should be used to count votes from multiple EVMs before announcing results.
• Eliminating Electoral Roll Errors: Aadhaar linking with EPIC can be considered after addressing privacy concerns. The ECI should remove duplicate voter IDs across states.

Proposed Reforms in the Election Campaign Process

• Regulating Star Campaigners: The ECI should be empowered to revoke the ‘Star Campaigner’ status of leaders who violate election rules. Political parties should face penalties under the Symbols Order for repeated violations.
• Controlling Election Spending: Political party contributions to candidates should be counted within the candidate’s expenditure limit. A cap should be introduced on overall political party expenses.
• Reducing Criminalization in Politics: Candidates with criminal backgrounds must disclose their records multiple times before elections. Information should be published in widely circulated newspapers and electronic media.

Conclusion

Electoral reforms are essential to maintain democratic integrity. Strengthening transparency in voting, curbing excessive campaign spending, and reducing criminal influence in politics can restore public confidence in India’s electoral process.

Practice Questions:

1. Consider the following statements regarding Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT):

1. EVMs are directly connected to the internet for real-time vote counting.
2. VVPAT allows voters to verify their vote before it is finally cast in the EVM.
3. The Election Commission of India mandates 100% VVPAT verification in all elections.
4. EVMs are used for both Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections in India.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer: B

Explanation:

EVMs are standalone devices and are not connected to the internet to prevent hacking or tampering.

VVPAT prints a paper slip that allows voters to verify that their vote was cast correctly. The slip is visible for a few seconds before being stored in a sealed box.

VVPAT verification is conducted for a random sample of polling booths, not for all votes. The Supreme Court mandated VVPAT verification in five polling stations per assembly constituency.

EVMs are used in both Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections in India.

INDIA’S CHANGING APPROACH TO THE TALIBAN

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

India is considering allowing the Taliban to appoint a new envoy to its embassy in New Delhi. This move signals a shift in India’s policy towards the Taliban, raising concerns about security and diplomatic implications.

India’s Engagement with the Taliban

• India reopened its embassy in Kabul in June 2022, marking a shift in its stance.
• A high-level meeting between Indian representatives and Taliban officials took place in January 2024.
• Allowing a Taliban diplomat in New Delhi would imply de facto recognition of the Taliban regime.

Concerns Over Women’s Rights in Afghanistan

• Many nations refuse to recognize the Taliban due to its harsh policies against women.
• 1.4 million school-age girls have been denied education.
• Women are banned from most jobs, beauty parlours, and national parks.
• The United Nations has termed this situation “gender apartheid.”
• Despite these concerns, India sees a strategic opportunity to expand its influence in Afghanistan.

China’s Expanding Influence in Afghanistan

• China has accepted a Taliban envoy and is investing in infrastructure projects in Afghanistan.
• It is considering including Afghanistan in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
• This would increase China’s economic and strategic control over Afghanistan.
• India aims to counter China’s growing influence by engaging with the Taliban.

Shifting Regional Dynamics

• A neighbouring country that once supported the Taliban now faces strained ties with the regime.
• The Taliban is now seeking new alliances with China, Russia, and Central Asian nations.
• Relations have soured due to the Taliban’s failure to curb terrorism within its borders.
• Afghanistan has become a hub for terrorist activities, impacting regional security.

Security Threats to India

• A terrorist group previously attacked an Indian consulate in Afghanistan, killing one person.
• A United Nations report warns that the same group is recruiting individuals for attacks in India.
• These threats pose a major security risk for India as it engages with Afghanistan.

India’s Need for Caution

• India has consistently emphasized that Afghanistan should not be a base for terrorism.
• Any engagement must be conditional on the Taliban’s commitment to fighting terrorism.
• The Taliban must take strong action against terrorist groups operating from its soil.
• Other countries have faced challenges in dealing with Afghanistan, and India must evaluate risks carefully.
• Given its history of terror threats, India must assess whether deepening ties with the Taliban is a safe and beneficial move.

Conclusion

India’s possible engagement with the Taliban presents both strategic opportunities and security risks. While it may help counter China’s influence, it also raises concerns over terrorism and human rights violations. India must proceed cautiously, ensuring its national security and regional stability are not compromised.

INDIA-NEW ZEALAND STRENGTHEN DEFENCE AND SECURITY TIES

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

India and New Zealand have decided to deepen their cooperation in defence, trade, and counter-terrorism to enhance strategic and economic ties.

Key Areas of Cooperation

 Defence and Maritime Security

• Both countries will strengthen institutional defence collaboration.
• Plans include joint military exercises, training programs, and port visits.
• A roadmap will be developed for collaboration in the defence industry.
• The navies of both nations are already working together under Combined Task Force-150 to enhance maritime security in the Indian Ocean.

 Trade and Economic Relations

• India and New Zealand have initiated discussions on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to boost trade and investment.
• Key focus areas include dairy, food processing, and pharmaceutical sectors.
• Strengthening economic ties will create new opportunities for businesses in both countries.

 Counter-Terrorism and Security Cooperation

• Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to countering global terrorism.
• India highlighted concerns over past terror attacks, including the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the 2019 Christchurch attacks.
• India raised concerns about pro-Khalistan activities in New Zealand and their misuse of free speech to promote extremist views.
• New Zealand acknowledged India’s concerns and assured support in tackling such threats.

 Diplomatic and People-to-People Relations

• New Zealand plans to expand its diplomatic presence in India by 60%.
• The Indian community in New Zealand is the third-largest ethnic group and plays a vital role in its economy.
• Both countries will celebrate 100 years of sporting ties in 2026, strengthening cultural exchanges.

Why India Needs New Zealand

• Strategic Partner in the Pacific – New Zealand’s location enhances India’s Indo-Pacific outreach.
• Defence Cooperation – Joint military efforts improve regional maritime security.
• Economic Benefits – India can benefit from New Zealand’s expertise in dairy, food processing, and agritech.
• Educational Opportunities – Indian students gain access to New Zealand’s high-quality education system.
• Technology & Innovation – Collaboration in clean energy, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology supports India’s development.
• Support in Global Platforms – New Zealand’s backing can strengthen India’s position in international forums, including UNSC reforms.

Why New Zealand Needs India

• Expanding Trade and Investment – India’s large market presents vast economic opportunities.
• Skilled Workforce – India supplies skilled professionals and students, benefiting New Zealand’s economy.
• Security Partnership – Strengthened defence ties enhance regional security.
• Cultural and Economic Contributions – The Indian diaspora plays a crucial role in New Zealand’s society and business.
• Diversification of Trade – Stronger ties with India reduce New Zealand’s reliance on traditional markets.
• Strategic Influence – Partnering with India helps New Zealand enhance its geopolitical presence.

Conclusion

The growing partnership between India and New Zealand marks a significant step towards enhancing defence, economic, and security cooperation. Strengthening these ties will benefit both countries in regional and global affairs.

SC TO REVIEW PETITION ON CAG APPOINTMENT PROCESS

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

The Supreme Court has agreed to examine a petition challenging the Centre’s exclusive power in appointing the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India.

CAG Appointment Process and Concerns

 How is the CAG Appointed?

• The President of India appoints the CAG as per Article 148 of the Constitution.
• The selection is made solely by the Central Government without consulting other institutions.
• There are no specific qualifications in the Constitution, but senior officials from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) or Indian Audit and Accounts Service (IAAS) are usually selected.

 Term and Removal Process

• The CAG holds office for six years or until the age of 65 years, whichever comes first.
• Removal is similar to that of a Supreme Court judge and requires Parliament’s approval with a special majority on grounds of misconduct or incapacity.

 Oath and Role

• The CAG takes an oath administered by the President of India before assuming office.
• It functions as an independent auditor, ensuring financial accountability in government spending.

Issues Raised in the Petition

• The petition challenges the lack of transparency in the appointment process.
• Critics argue that an executive-dominated selection process may compromise CAG’s independence.
• The plea suggests a collegium-based appointment to ensure fairness, similar to the judiciary.

Why is CAG’s Independence Important?

• The CAG audits government accounts, ensuring transparency and accountability.
• It plays a key role in uncovering financial irregularities and corruption.
• A fair appointment system strengthens democratic oversight over public funds.

Functions of the CAG

• Audit of Government Accounts – Audits the accounts of the Central and State Governments, including ministries, departments, and public sector undertakings.
• Audit of Receipts and Expenditure – Ensures that government revenue is collected properly and expenditure is as per the law.
• Audit of Public Sector Enterprises (PSEs) – Evaluates the financial management of government-owned companies.
• Audit of Local Bodies and Panchayati Raj Institutions – Examines financial operations at the municipal and village levels.
• Compliance and Performance Audit – Checks whether government projects and policies are being implemented efficiently.
• Ensuring Financial Accountability – Reports misuse of public funds and makes recommendations for better governance.
• Reporting to Legislature – Submits audit reports to Parliament and State Legislatures to ensure transparency in public finances.
• Assisting Public Accounts Committees (PACs) – Helps in reviewing financial irregularities and government expenditures.

Constitutional Provisions and Functions of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India

Constitutional Provisions

• Article 148 – Establishes the office of the CAG and provides for its appointment by the President of India.
• Article 149 – Defines the duties and powers of the CAG concerning government accounts.
• Article 150 – Requires the CAG to prescribe how the accounts of the Union and States should be maintained.
• Article 151 – Mandates that the CAG’s audit reports be submitted to the President and the Governor, who present them to Parliament and State Legislatures, respectively.
• Article 279 – Empowers the CAG to certify net proceeds of taxes for distribution between the Centre and the States.
• Sixth Schedule – Provides for CAG’s audit of accounts of Autonomous District Councils in tribal areas.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s review of the petition may lead to reforms in the CAG appointment process, ensuring a more transparent and independent selection mechanism.

Practice Question:

1. With reference to the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, consider the following statements:

1. The CAG is appointed by the President of India and can be removed in the same manner as a Supreme Court judge.
2. The CAG audits the accounts of both the Union and State Governments, including Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).
3. The CAG’s reports are directly submitted to the Prime Minister for review before being tabled in Parliament.

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 CAG is appointed by the President and can be removed in the same manner as a Supreme Court judge, i.e., through a special majority in Parliament.

• The CAG audits the accounts of both the Union and State Governments, including PSUs.
• The CAG’s reports are submitted to the President (for Union government) or the Governor (for State government), who then lay them before Parliament or the respective State Legislature. The Prime Minister has no direct role in reviewing the reports before they are tabled.

BARRIERS FACED BY CONSTRUCTION WORKERS IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

India’s construction industry is growing rapidly but faces major challenges due to labour shortages, lack of welfare access, and insecure job conditions. Many workers struggle with documentation and state-specific policies, making it difficult to avail benefits.

Importance of the Construction Sector

• The construction industry contributes around 9% to India’s GDP and is one of the fastest-growing sectors.
• By 2025, the sector is expected to reach $1.4 trillion, employing nearly 3 crore workers by 2030.
• Despite its growth, concerns about labour shortages have emerged, often linked to workers’ reluctance to migrate due to welfare schemes.
• However, these claims overlook deeper structural challenges faced by construction workers.

Challenges Faced by Construction Workers

Job Insecurity and Frequent Relocation

• Most construction workers are migrants, frequently moving from one site to another.
• Their employment is temporary and unstable, leading to irregular incomes.
• Due to constant movement, they struggle to access social security benefits consistently.

Difficulty in Accessing Welfare Schemes

• The Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) Act, 1996 was created to provide protection, but many workers fail to receive benefits.
• Nearly 5.65 crore workers are registered under various state welfare boards, which have collected ₹70,000 crore in welfare funds.
• However, 75% of these funds remain unspent due to administrative hurdles.

Documentation Issues

• Workers need identity proof, birth certificates, and residence documents to access welfare benefits.
• Since they frequently move, many lack permanent addresses, making it difficult to complete registration.
• Contractors often refuse to issue employment certificates, which are needed to prove 90 days of work in a year.

State-Specific Barriers

• Different states have different verification processes, creating inconsistencies in welfare access.
• No portability of benefits—a worker registered in Haryana cannot avail benefits in Delhi.
• This results in gaps in welfare support, leaving workers vulnerable when they migrate.

Seasonal Employment and Emergency Support

• Workers face job losses due to extreme weather conditions like heat waves.
• Air pollution bans on construction also lead to sudden unemployment.
• Due to slow administrative processes and lack of digital infrastructure, workers do not receive timely financial relief.

Proposed Solutions

Unified Labour Identification System

• A national labour database, similar to the One Nation One Ration Card scheme, is needed.
• Linking BOCW registrations with the e-Shram UAN would allow workers to access benefits from any state.

Digital Infrastructure for Welfare Access

• State governments should adopt digital platforms for faster welfare disbursement.
• A centralised portal with real-time tracking and Aadhaar-based verification can improve efficiency.

Simplifying Documentation Requirements

• States should accept alternative forms of identity proof to reduce registration barriers.
• Organising on-site registration camps can ensure that workers are enrolled in welfare schemes.

Investment in Skill Development

• Improving skill training can help address labour shortages and improve worker efficiency.
• Construction firms should invest in training programs and ensure better working conditions to retain workers.

Conclusion

Labour shortages in construction are not just due to welfare schemes but are a result of systemic barriers in employment and welfare access. Addressing these challenges through better documentation, digital systems, and skill development is crucial for building a stable and secure workforce.

HOW CLIMATE CHANGE IS IMPACTING INDIA’S WHEAT PRODUCTION

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

Climate change is disrupting India’s wheat production cycle by causing heat stress, lower yields, and economic difficulties for farmers.

Effects of Climate Change on Wheat Production

 Rising Temperatures and Heatwaves

• India experienced its hottest February in 124 years, raising concerns about wheat crops.
• Higher-than-normal March temperatures coincide with harvest time, affecting grain quality and output.

 Impact on Wheat Growth Stages

• Early flowering due to high temperatures reduces the grain-filling period.
• Heat stress during grain formation leads to lighter grains and poorer quality for milling.

 Monsoon Shifts and Delayed Sowing

• Changes in the Indian Ocean’s temperature impact monsoon patterns.
• Delayed sowing leads to crops maturing during early heatwaves, reducing overall yield.

 Declining Productivity and Economic Struggles

• Grain weight decreases, leading to lower market prices for farmers.
• Farmers use more fertilizers and pesticides, raising costs and harming the environment.

 Adaptation and Solutions

• Development of heat-resistant wheat varieties and early sowing methods.
• Strengthening weather monitoring and providing financial aid, insurance, and sustainable policies.

INDIA’S WHEAT PRODUCTION India’s wheat production has been on an upward trajectory, reaching record levels in recent years. In the 2023-24 crop year, wheat production was estimated at 112.92 million metric tons (MMT), contributing to a total food grain production of 332.22 MMT. Looking ahead, the Ministry of Agriculture projects wheat production to rise by 2% to an unprecedented 115.4 MMT in the 2024-25 crop year, attributed to expanded acreage and favorable policies. Government Initiatives to Boost Wheat Production: 1.       Minimum Support Price (MSP) Increase: For the 2025 season, MSP for wheat has been raised by 6.6% to ₹2,425 per quintal, incentivizing farmers to expand wheat cultivation. 2.       Budgetary Allocations: The agriculture budget for 2025-26 has been increased by over 15%, totaling approximately ₹1.75 trillion, to enhance rural incomes and control inflation. 3.       Financial Support and Credit Facilities: The limit for collateral-free agriculture loans has been raised from ₹160,000 to ₹200,000, improving access to credit for small and marginal farmers. 4.       Subsidies and Crop Insurance: Enhanced subsidies and comprehensive crop insurance schemes have been introduced to mitigate risks associated with wheat farming. 5.       Infrastructure Development: Investments in storage facilities, supply chain infrastructure, and high-yield seed varieties aim to increase productivity and reduce post-harvest losses.

Conclusion

Climate change is threatening wheat production in India. Better adaptation strategies and policy support are needed to secure food production and protect farmers’ livelihoods.

ISRO ACHIEVES HISTORIC SPACE DOCKING AND UNDOCKING CAPABILITY

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully demonstrated space docking and undocking, making India the fourth nation after the US, Russia, and China to achieve this complex milestone. This breakthrough strengthens India’s ability to conduct advanced space missions.

What is Space Docking?

• Space docking is the process of two spacecraft meeting in orbit, synchronizing their movements, and connecting together.
• It is a highly precise operation that requires accurate navigation, control, and automation.
• Docking is crucial for assembling large spacecraft, refueling in space, and human spaceflight missions.

ISRO’s SPADEx Mission

• Launched on December 30, 2024, the SPADEx (Space Docking Experiment) tested docking technology.
• It involved two 220-kg satellites (SDX01 – Chaser and SDX02 – Target) placed in a 470 km orbit.
• The satellites, initially 20 km apart, gradually approached each other and docked using an androgynous docking system (similar to the International Space Station).
• After docking, the system demonstrated power sharing and unified control, proving India’s capability in this domain.

Significance of Docking and Undocking Capability

• Enables Larger Spacecraft: A single launch cannot carry very large or heavy spacecraft. Docking allows assembling larger structures in orbit, just like the International Space Station (ISS) was built.
• Human Spaceflight and Resupply Missions: Essential for sending astronauts and supplies to India’s future space station. It supports long-duration missions, allowing astronauts to receive food, fuel, and equipment.
• Key for Future Space Missions: India aims to build its own space station by 2035 and send a human to the Moon by 2040. Upcoming Chandrayaan-4’s lunar sample return mission will require docking for bringing lunar samples back to Earth.

Historical Context

• First Docking in History (USA, 1966): The Gemini VIII mission, led by Neil Armstrong, achieved the world’s first successful docking.
• First Autonomous Docking (USSR, 1967): The Soviet Union performed the first unmanned docking between Kosmos 186 and Kosmos 188.
• China’s Achievement: China demonstrated space docking in 2011 with Tiangong-1 and Shenzhou-8.

Conclusion

ISRO’s successful docking experiment strengthens India’s space program, opening doors for future deep-space exploration, human spaceflight, and space station construction.

NEW STUDY CHALLENGES MILLER-UREY HYPOTHESIS ON ORIGIN OF LIFE

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: INDIAN EXPRESS

A recent study suggests that water droplets from crashing waves and waterfalls, rather than lightning, may have played a key role in forming organic compounds essential for life on Earth. This challenges the long-accepted Miller-Urey hypothesis on the origin of life.

Miller-Urey Hypothesis

• Proposed by Stanley Miller and Harold Urey in 1952, the hypothesis suggested that lightning triggered chemical reactions in Earth’s early atmosphere, leading to the formation of organic molecules.
• Their experiment simulated early Earth’s conditions by applying electricity to a mixture of water, methane, ammonia, and hydrogen, producing amino acids, which are fundamental for life.
• The hypothesis has faced criticism over time due to uncertainties about lightning frequency and the rapid dispersion of organic compounds in the ocean.

New Study’s Findings

• A study led by Stanford University chemist Richard Zare argues that water sprays from waves and waterfalls could have generated organic compounds without needing lightning.
• Researchers found that when water droplets split, they acquire opposite charges—large droplets become positively charged, and smaller ones negatively charged.
• When these charged droplets interact, they create tiny sparks, known as microlightning, similar to electrical discharges in clouds.

Chemical Reactions from Water Sprays

• The researchers simulated early atmospheric conditions using nitrogen, methane, carbon dioxide, and ammonia and exposed them to sprayed water droplets.
• This process produced essential organic compounds like hydrogen cyanide, glycine, and uracil, which are building blocks of life.
• These findings indicate that breaking waves, waterfalls, or even splashes against rocks might have continuously contributed to the formation of life’s essential molecules.

Significance of the Study

• This discovery offers a more widespread and consistent explanation for the emergence of life compared to lightning strikes, which were likely less frequent.

It highlights that microlightning in water droplets could have played a critical role in chemical evolution, shaping the early conditions for life on Earth.