19-June-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

TIME FOR A CENSUS, COME WHAT MAY 

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

The delay of the 2021 Census in India is speculated to be influenced by political strategies, particularly by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Understanding these reasons is crucial for grasping the potential impacts on electoral processes and public welfare. 

Political Strategy and Delimitation 

• 84th Amendment: Delimitation based on the first census after 2026. 
• Postponing the Census might favour BJP by shifting Lok Sabha seat shares towards northern states, where BJP has stronger support. 
• Timing of Delimitation: If the Census occurs before 2026, delimitation is delayed until the 2030s, not benefiting BJP in 2029 elections. 

Impact on Women’s Reservation 

• 106th Amendment: Provides one-third reservation for women in Lok Sabha and State Assemblies. 
• Delimitation for Women’s Reservation: This could happen separately from the larger delimitation exercise. 

Public Welfare Concerns 

• Essential Entitlements: Delaying the Census affects the implementation of welfare schemes like the National Food Security Act. 
• Legal and Constitutional Issues: Opposition may argue for an early Census to ensure timely public benefits and prevent abuse of government privileges. 

Opposition Strategy 

• Timely Census: Insisting on completing the Census before 2026 to avoid BJP’s potential advantages. 
• Legal Action: Taking the issue to the Supreme Court to address possible infringement of fundamental rights due to Census delays. 

INDIAN CENSUS 

The Indian census is a decennial (every 10 years) headcount of the entire population 

History: 

• Early Attempts (1800s): The British Raj initiated censuses in the early 1800s, starting with Allahabad (1824) and Dhaka (1830). However, these were sporadic and incomplete. 
• First Synchronous Census (1881): Lord Mayo, the Viceroy, introduced the first all-India census in 1881, marking a shift towards systematic data collection. 
• Post-Independence (1951 Onwards): After independence, the Government of India continued the census every 10 years, with the Registrar General and Census Commissioner overseeing the process. The 1948 Census of India Act governs the census. 

conducting authority structure: 

• Registrar General and Census Commissioner (RGCI): This office, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, oversees the entire census process, including planning, execution, and data analysis. 
• State Governments: They play a crucial role in appointing census officers and providing logistical support for the on-ground data collection. 
• Census Officers: These are appointed by the state governments to carry out the census enumeration in their designated areas. 

Additional Information: 

• The Census of India Act, 1948, is the legal framework governing the conduct of the census. 
• While the census is traditionally decennial (every 10 years), the 2021 census has been delayed due to various factors. 

Uses of Census Data  

• Demographic Analysis: Understand population size, growth rate, age structure, literacy levels, and migration patterns. This knowledge is vital for policy formulation on education, healthcare, employment, and infrastructure development. 
• Social Change & Development Tracking: Analyze trends in caste composition, urbanization, and minority populations. This helps assess the effectiveness of social welfare programs and identify areas requiring focus. 
• Resource Allocation & Policy Planning: Census data provides the basis for allocating resources like funds, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions across regions. Delays can lead to misallocation of resources and hinder program effectiveness. 
• Constituency Demarcation: Population data is used to demarcate parliamentary and legislative assembly constituencies. Delays can lead to outdated representation, impacting democratic processes. 

Implications of Delayed Census in India: 

• Ineffective Policy Making: Outdated data can lead to policies that don’t reflect current population needs. For example, inaccurate allocation of funds for education in a state with a growing youth population. 
• Inequitable Resource Distribution: Delays can exacerbate existing inequalities. Without recent data, disadvantaged groups may not receive their fair share of resources. 
• Challenges in Implementing Social Welfare Schemes: Programs based on outdated data may not reach the intended beneficiaries, hindering their impact and creating administrative hurdles. 
• Erosion of Public Trust: Delays can raise questions about government transparency and accountability. 

Conclusion 

The delay in the Census is politically motivated but raises significant concerns about public welfare and constitutional rights. Addressing this issue is vital for fair electoral processes and ensuring citizens receive their entitled benefits. 

Multiple Choice Question: 

1. How many times has the Census been conducted in India since it first started?

1. 12 times 

1. 14 times 

1. 15 times 

1. 16 times 

ANSWER – D 

EXPLANATION: 

The Census in India has been conducted 16 times since the first census in 1872. The most recent census was scheduled for 2021. 

NEW DYNAMICS 

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS –SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS 

The G-7, originally a powerful group of the world’s most developed democracies, now faces the challenge of remaining relevant amidst global shifts. 

Expanded Outreach 

• Inclusive Invitations: Italy invited leaders from the Global South, including BRICS countries like Brazil, India, and the UAE. 
• Focus on Energy: Outreach with seven African countries on energy issues. 
• Venue Choice: Held in the Mediterranean Apulia region to symbolize inclusivity. 

Current Challenges 

• Global Issues: Manufacturing slowdowns, COVID-19 impact, Russia-Ukraine conflict. 
• Leadership Stability: Shaky electoral fortunes of G-7 leaders. 
• Ineffective Meetings: Joint communiqué lacked actionable solutions. 

Major Focus Areas 

• Ukraine Support: Continued support for Ukraine without a plan to end the war. 
• China Relations: Criticism of China’s practices but no reduction in trade ties. 
• Infrastructure Projects: Recommitment to projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor without execution plans. 

India’s Role and Reflection 

• PM Participation: Eleventh attendance, met with global leaders but few outcomes. 
• Key Issues Highlighted: India’s democratic elections, technology and AI for equality, importance of the Global South. 
• Comparison with G-20: Issues may be better addressed in a larger, more inclusive format like the G-20. 

G7 (Group of Seven): 

• An intergovernmental organization of the world’s seven most advanced economies. 
• Members: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States (the European Union also participates). 
• Formed: 1975, following the 1973 oil crisis, to address global economic challenges. 
• Focus: Promoting economic growth, global financial stability, and international cooperation on issues like climate change, poverty, and security. 

India’s Engagement with G7: 

• India participates in G7 outreach dialogues on issues like climate change, counter-terrorism, and maritime security. 
• Positives for India: Gaining influence on global issues, potential access to technology and resources, and fostering partnerships for economic growth. 
• Negatives for India: Limited voting power due to non-membership, potential pressure to conform to G7 priorities, and dominance of major economies. 

Benefits of Increased Engagement: 

• Economic Growth: Access to G7 expertise, technology, and investment opportunities could accelerate India’s economic development. 
• Global Leadership: Stronger engagement with G7 could enhance India’s image as a responsible global player. 
• Multilateral Cooperation: Collaboration on global challenges like climate change and pandemics would benefit India and the world. 

Challenges and Considerations: 

• Balancing Interests: India needs to ensure its engagement aligns with its national interests and development goals. 
• Reforms & Infrastructure: India needs to address domestic issues like infrastructure deficiencies and regulatory hurdles to fully benefit from G7 partnerships. 
• Multilateral vs. Bilateral: While G7 engagement is valuable, India should also focus on strengthening bilateral relations with member countries. 

Multiple Choice Question: 

1. Consider the following statements about the Group of Seven (G7):

1. It is a group of the worlds seven largest democracies. 

1. It was formed in the aftermath of World War II. 

1. All member countries of the G7 are permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. 

1. India is a member of the G7. 

Which of the statements given above are correct? 

1. 2 and 3 only 

1. 3 and 4 only 

1. 1 and 4 only 

1. None of the above 

ANSWER – D 

EXPLANATION: 

While G7 members are democracies, focus is on economic strength, not political system. 

The G7 was formed in 1975 after the 1973 oil crisis. 

G7 membership is not linked to UN Security Council membership. 

India is not currently a member of the G7. 

PRO TEM SPEAKER 

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

The 18th Lok Sabha will hold its first session between June 24 and July 3, where the new Speaker will be elected. During this period, a pro tem Speaker is appointed to manage essential duties. 

Role of Pro Tem Speaker 

• Temporary Role: Acts as the Presiding Officer until a permanent Speaker is elected. 
• Duties: Administers oaths to new MPs, oversees initial proceedings. 

Selection Process 

• Criteria: Chosen based on seniority from the list of the oldest Lok Sabha members. 
• Approval: Prime Minister proposes, and the President approves the appointment. 

Oath Administration 

• Ministry submits names to the President. 
• President administers the oath to the pro tem Speaker. 
• Pro tem Speaker then administers oaths to other MPs. 

Facts 

• First Pro-Tem Speaker: The first Pro-Tem Speaker of the Lok Sabha was G.V. Mavlankar. 
• Multiple Terms: Seth Govind Das served as Pro-Tem Speaker in four successive Lok Sabhas (Second to Fifth), and Shri Inderjit Gupta in the Tenth to Thirteenth Lok Sabhas. 
• Recent Pro-Tem Speaker: Dr. Virendra Kumar was the Pro-Tem Speaker for the 17th Lok Sabha. 

Importance 

Ensures Continuity: Facilitates smooth functioning of the House until the election of the new Speaker. 

Role and Responsibilities 

• Presiding Over Initial Sessions Manages the first session of the newly elected house until a permanent Speaker is chosen. 
• Oath Administration: Swears in the newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs). 
• Facilitating Elections: Oversees the election process for the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha. 
• Maintaining Order and Decorum: Maintains order and decorum during the initial sessions of the house. 

Additional Duties 

• Extra Responsibilities: May have other tasks as per the legislative body’s specific rules and procedures. 

Multiple Choice Question: 

1. Which of the following statements regarding the Pro-Tem Speaker of the Lok Sabha is/are correct?

1. The Pro-Tem Speaker presides over the first session of the newly elected Lok Sabha until a permanent Speaker is elected. 

1. The Pro-Tem Speaker administers the oath of office to the newly elected Members of Parliament. 

1. The position of the Pro-Tem Speaker continues throughout the entire term of the Lok Sabha. 

Select the correct answer using the code given below: 

1. 1 and 2 only 

1. 2 and 3 only 

1. 1 and 3 only 

1. 1, 2, and 3 

ANSWER – A 

EXPLANATION: 

The Pro-Tem Speaker presides over the first session of the newly elected Lok Sabha until a permanent Speaker is elected. 

The Pro-Tem Speaker administers the oath of office to the newly elected Members of Parliament. 

The position of the Pro-Tem Speaker is abolished with the election of a new Speaker. 

FILOBOLETUS MANIPULARIS 

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

Recently, researchers discovered a rare species of bioluminescent mushrooms in the forests of Kasaragod, Kerala. 

About Filoboletus manipularis: 

• Scientific Name: The mushrooms are scientifically known as Filoboletus manipularis. 
• Bioluminescence: These mushrooms exhibit a fascinating trait of bioluminescence, glowing bright green at night due to a chemical reaction in their cells. 
• Habitat: They thrive in tropical and humid environments, particularly dense forests rich in decaying organic matter like fallen trees and leaves. 
• Biochemical Process: The glowing mechanism involves a chemical reaction between luciferin (a pigment), luciferase (an enzyme), and oxygen. This reaction produces light, similar to fireflies and certain marine organisms. 
• Ecological Role: Bioluminescence in fungi is hypothesized to attract insects that aid in dispersing the mushroom’s spores, contributing to their reproductive cycle. 

Significance of Filoboletus manipularis and Mushrooms  

• Forest Ecosystem: Mushrooms, including Filoboletus manipularis, are secondary saprophytic fungi crucial for decomposing plant litter in forest ecosystems. 
• The Western Ghats area in Kerala is well-known for its rich variety of fungi, which includes numerous species found exclusively in this region. 
• Environmental Importance: Fungi play a vital role in nutrient cycling, helping recycle organic matter back into the soil. 
• Conservation: Discoveries like Filoboletus manipularis highlight the rich biodiversity of India’s forests, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts to protect such unique species and their habitats. 

DEAD ZONE 

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS 

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts an above-average summer “dead zone” in the Gulf of Mexico, covering about 5,827 square miles. 

About dead zone 

A “dead zone” or “hypoxia” refers to areas in lakes and oceans with low oxygen levels, making it difficult for most organisms to survive. 

• Formation: Dead zones are primarily caused by eutrophication, where excessive nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen lead to algae blooms. 
• Algal Blooms: When these nutrients accumulate, cyanobacteria or blue-green algae overgrow rapidly, forming dense blooms. 
• Oxygen Depletion: After algae die and sink, bacteria decompose them, consuming oxygen in the process, which depletes oxygen levels in the water. 
• Impact: Lack of oxygen harms marine life, especially those reliant on underwater grasses for food and habitat. 
• Human Influence: Human activities such as agriculture and urban runoff contribute excess nutrients to coastal waters, exacerbating dead zone formation. 
• Factors Affecting Dead Zones: Wind mixing oxygen from the surface, temperature variations, heavy rainfall increasing pollution input, and water depth all influence the size and persistence of dead zones. 
• Mitigation: Preventing nutrient runoff through better land management practices and reducing pollution can help mitigate the formation and expansion of dead zones. 

Significance of Dead Zones in the Gulf of Mexico 

• Ecological Impact: Dead zones disrupt marine ecosystems, impacting fish, shellfish, and other aquatic life. 
• Economic Implications: Fisheries and tourism industries suffer due to reduced fish stocks and degraded water quality. 
• Environmental Management: Monitoring and reducing nutrient runoff are critical for managing and minimizing the extent of dead zones, preserving coastal biodiversity and livelihoods. 

THE HINDU KUSH HIMALAYA REGION 

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY – SOURCE: THE HINDU 

Recently, the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) conducted an analysis of snow persistence data spanning from 2003 to 2024 in the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region. The findings indicate that this year, snow persistence levels were notably lower than historical norms. 

About HKH region: 

The HKH region spans 3,500 kilometers across eight countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan. It is home to numerous high snow-capped peaks, including Tirich Mir in Pakistan, standing at 7,708 meters. 

• Significance as the Third Pole: Often referred to as the Third Pole due to its vast ice and snow reserves, it plays a crucial role in global climate dynamics. 
• Hydrological Importance: The HKH region is the source of ten major river systems, including the Indus, Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Yangtze rivers. These rivers provide water to approximately 1.9 billion people across Asia. 
• Climate Impact: Changes in the HKH region affect weather patterns, water availability, and climate stability across South Asia, influencing monsoon dynamics and regional ecosystems. 
• Topographical Diversity: The region can be divided into three main sections: eastern, central, and western Hindu Kush, each characterized by unique geological and ecological features. 
• Environmental Challenges: The HKH faces threats from climate change, including glacial retreat, altered precipitation patterns, and changes in snow cover dynamics. 
• Ecological Diversity: Despite harsh conditions in some areas, the HKH supports diverse ecosystems, ranging from alpine meadows to temperate forests, contributing to regional biodiversity. 
• Human Dependence: Communities in the HKH rely heavily on the rivers originating from these mountains for agriculture, hydropower generation, and livelihoods, making them vulnerable to climate impacts. 

SOLAR POWER PROJECT IN RAJASTHAN 

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: TIMES OF INDIA 

The International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank Group, has committed USD 105 million to support a 550-Megawatt peak (MWp) solar power project in Rajasthan, India. 

• Solar Capacity: The project aims to contribute to India’s renewable energy goals by enhancing solar power capacity in Rajasthan. 
• Objective: It seeks to provide affordable solar electricity to businesses and industries across India through long-term energy contracts, thereby supporting India’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 
• Government Initiatives: India has set ambitious targets to achieve 500 GW of Renewable Energy (RE) capacity by 2030, prompting increased investments in the renewable energy sector. 
• IFC’s Role: As the private sector lending arm of the World Bank, IFC focuses on facilitating private sector investments in developing countries to ensure access to markets and financing. 

This initiative underscores global efforts to promote sustainable energy solutions and combat climate change through renewable energy investments in India’s solar power sector. 

KAVLI PRIZE AND KAVLI MEDAL 

TOPIC: (GS2) MISCELLANEOUS – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS 

Kavli Prize: 

• An international award recognizing outstanding achievements in astrophysics, nanoscience, and neuroscience. 
• Started in 2008, named after Fred Kavli, a Norwegian-American philanthropist. 
• Awarded biennially by the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters, in partnership with the Kavli Foundation and the Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research. 
• Comparable to the Nobel Prize in its fields but differs as it recognizes achievements without the restriction of being made in the preceding year. 
• The 2024 Kavli Prize was awarded to eight scientists from leading American universities for their contributions in the respective fields. 

Kavli Medal: 

• Awarded annually for excellence in environmental science and engineering. 
• Open to citizens or residents of the UK, Commonwealth, or the Irish Republic with at least three years of residency. 
• Targets early-career scientists who are within 15 years of completing their PhD, with allowances for career breaks. 
• Awardees are selected by the Royal Society Council following recommendations from the Joint Physical and Biological Sciences Awards Committee. 
• Nominations remain valid for five years; candidates must wait a year before re-nomination if not selected. 

The Kavli Prize and Kavli Medal both honour significant scientific contributions, though in different fields and with different eligibility and awarding criteria.