19-September-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

PM-AASHA SCHEMES TO CONTINUE WITH ADDITIONS: CENTRE

TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay SanraksHan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA). The scheme aims to ensure remunerative prices for farmers and control price volatility of essential commodities, benefiting both farmers and consumers.

Key Aspects of PM-AASHA:

Objective: Ensure fair prices for farmers and to Stabilize prices of essential commodities to protect consumers from price volatility.

Components:

• Price Support Scheme (PSS)
• Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF)
• Price Deficit Payment Scheme (PDPS)
• Market Intervention Scheme (MIS)

Price Support Schemes in India

• Price Support Scheme (PSS): The government purchases agricultural products at a predetermined minimum support price (MSP) to ensure farmers a guaranteed income.
• Price Stabilization Fund (PSF): A fund created to intervene in the market and stabilize prices of agricultural commodities by buying or selling stocks.
• Price Deficit Payment Scheme (PDPS): A scheme that compensates farmers for the difference between the MSP and the market price if the market price falls below the MSP.
• Market Intervention Scheme (MIS): A scheme where the government intervenes in the market to regulate prices of agricultural commodities, often by buying or selling stocks.

NOTE: Read In Detail About All

Budgetary Allocations:

• Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS): For the upcoming rabi season, ₹24,475.53 crore is allocated for phosphatic and potassic (P and K) fertilizers.
• Total Financial Outlay: PM-AASHA will have an expenditure of ₹35,000 crore during the 15th Finance Commission cycle (up to 2025-26).

Price Stabilization Efforts:

• The scheme aims to maintain a strategic buffer stock of pulses and onions for calibrated release to control price volatility.
• It discourages hoarding and speculation in agri-horticultural commodities to ensure affordable prices for consumers.

Fertilizer Subsidy:

• The government will continue to provide subsidized, affordable fertilizers to farmers, ensuring the availability of essential nutrients.
• Rationalization of subsidies on P and K fertilizers is considered in response to international price fluctuations.

Market Intervention Scheme (MIS)

Key Points:

• Purpose: Protects farmers from distress sales due to surplus production and price drops.
• Implementation: State-initiated, implemented by NAFED or state-designated agencies.
• Conditions: 10% increase in production or 10% decrease in prices compared to the previous year.
• Procurement: Pre-determined quantity at a fixed Market Intervention Price (MIP).
• Funding: Shared by central and state governments (50:50, with a 25% cap on total losses).
• Commodities: Perishable agricultural and horticultural products not covered under MSP.
• Benefits: Provides remunerative prices to farmers.

Conclusion: The PM-AASHA scheme continues with enhanced components to provide financial security to farmers and stabilize the prices of essential commodities. Through these measures, the government aims to create a balanced agricultural market, benefiting both producers and consumers.

Multiple Choice Question

1. Consider the following statements regarding Minimum Support Price (MSP) and Market Intervention Scheme (MIS):

1. MSP is announced only for selected agricultural crops, while MIS is implemented for horticultural crops and perishable commodities.
2. MSP ensures procurement by the government at a fixed price, whereas MIS involves financial aid to state governments to procure perishable commodities in distress sale situations.
3. Both MSP and MIS guarantee price support for crops even if the market prices are higher than the support price.

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:

Minimum Support Price (MSP) is announced for selected agricultural crops (like wheat, rice, pulses, etc.) by the central government.

Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) is implemented for horticultural and perishable commodities (like fruits and vegetables) by the government to support farmers during periods of price crashes.

MSP ensures that the government procures crops directly from farmers at a pre-determined price to safeguard them from price fluctuations.

MIS, on the other hand, provides financial aid to state governments to procure perishable commodities in times of price decline to prevent distress sales.

MSP and MIS are designed to ensure a minimum support price only when market prices fall below the support price, not when market prices are higher. Therefore, they do not guarantee price support if the market price is already higher than the MSP/MIS.

WHY INDIA WANTS ‘REVIEW & MODIFICATION’ OF THE INDUS WATERS TREATY (IWT)

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan, governs the use of the Indus River system. In January 2023, India sent a formal notice to Pakistan seeking a review and modification of the treaty, a significant diplomatic step.

The reasons for this demand stem from various technical, legal, and environmental challenges.

Background of the IWT:

• The Indus Waters Treaty was brokered by the World Bank and allocates the water of three eastern rivers (Beas, Ravi, Sutlej) to India, and three western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) to Pakistan.
• Article XII of the treaty allows for the possibility of modifications over time if mutually agreed upon by both parties.

Reasons for Renegotiation:

Unforeseen Circumstances:

• India’s notice highlights the fundamental changes in circumstances, particularly related to climate change and global warming, which affect water availability and distribution.

Pakistan’s Objections:

• Pakistan raised objections to hydroelectric projects in Kishanganga (Jhelum tributary) and Ratle (Chenab).
• Despite appointing a Neutral Expert in 2015, Pakistan moved the case to the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), bypassing agreed mechanisms, creating parallel proceedings that India views as unacceptable.

Technical & Legal Concerns:

• India feels that the treaty does not sufficiently address modern challenges like environmental impacts and technological advancements.
• The parallel proceedings initiated by Pakistan in both the PCA and World Bank also strain the treaty’s dispute resolution process.

Pakistan’s Position:

• Pakistan repeatedly opposed India’s hydroelectric projects, claiming they violate the treaty by affecting water flow. However, India maintains these are run-of-the-river projects and do not obstruct water flow significantly.

Developments in 2023:

• In April 2023, India held its first review of the IWT under a parliamentary standing committee.
• In July 2023, the PCA ruled that it had jurisdiction to examine Pakistan’s objections, which India continues to challenge.
• In September 2023, discussions between India and Pakistan resumed with an emphasis on resolving Kishanganga and Ratle project disputes.

Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA):

The Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to arbitration and dispute resolution.Established in 1899 by the Hague Convention for the Pacific Settlement of International Disputes.

• It facilitates arbitration and other forms of dispute resolution between states, state entities, international organizations, and private parties.

Role and Functions:

• The PCA provides a neutral forum for resolving international disputes through independent arbitration.
• Its services are available to a wide range of entities, including states, state-owned enterprises, international organizations, and private individuals or companies.
• The PCA promotes peaceful settlement of disputes and supports the rule of law in international relations.
• It aims to contribute to the development of international law and strengthen legal frameworks in international disputes.

History:

• The PCA was the first permanent international organization focused on peaceful dispute resolution.
• Created during the first Hague Peace Conference in 1899 under the guidance of Czar Nicolas II of Russia.
• The goal was to ensure enduring peace and limit the growth of weaponry.
• The Convention for the Pacific Settlement of International Disputes laid the foundation for the PCA.

Structure of the PCA:

Administrative Council:

• The governing body of the PCA.
• Composed of representatives of member states.
• Oversees PCA’s activities, approves its budget, and appoints the Secretary-General.

International Bureau:

• The PCA’s administrative arm, led by the Secretary-General.
• Provides logistical and secretarial support for arbitration proceedings.

Panels of Arbitrators:

• A list of qualified individuals nominated by member states.
• Arbitrators specialize in international law and various dispute resolution fields.

Key Facts about PCA Member States:

• Member states represent a diverse range of legal systems, cultures, and economic development levels.
• Member countries include major powers like the United States, China, Russia, and the United Kingdom, as well as smaller and developing nations.

Conclusion:

India’s notice signals a shift toward modernizing the IWT to better align with contemporary issues like climate change and water security. Ongoing diplomatic and legal efforts continue, with the goal of ensuring that both countries’ water rights are respected while addressing new environmental challenges.

Multiple Choice Question

1. With reference to the Indus River System, consider the following statements:

1. The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) allows India to use the waters of the Western Rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) for irrigation, navigation, and power generation.
2. The Eastern Rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) are allocated for exclusive use by India under the Indus Waters Treaty.
3. The Chenab and Sutlej rivers flow through Pakistan before joining the Indus River.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer: B

Explanation:

• The Western Rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) are allocated to Pakistan under the Indus Waters Treaty, and India can use them for limited purposes like irrigation, navigation, and non-consumptive uses.
• The Eastern Rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) are allocated for India’s exclusive use under the treaty.
• The Sutlej flows through India before joining the Indus, but the Chenab flows through Pakistan before joining the Indus.

EXTRADITION OF SHEIKH HASINA

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has sought the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India, raising questions about the legal framework and potential diplomatic implications of such a request.

Reason for Extradition:

• The ICT aims to prosecute Sheikh Hasina for alleged involvement in crimes like murder, abduction, and genocide.
• She fled Bangladesh during a mass uprising and sought refuge in India in August 2023.

• Legal Charges: Multiple charges have been brought against her and her aides, including crimes against humanity.

Extradition Procedure in India

What is Extradition?

• Extradition is the process by which one country hands over an individual to another country for trial or punishment for crimes committed there.
• It involves the transfer of custody of the individual to the legal authority of the requesting country.
• Extradition relies on mutual agreements between the two countries involved.

Purpose of Extradition

• To ensure that individuals are punished for crimes even if they flee to another country.
• Acts as a deterrent to criminals, preventing them from escaping justice by fleeing to another jurisdiction.

Extradition Procedures

1. Procedure for Extradition from India:

• Begins when a foreign nation sends a request to India for the extradition of a fugitive criminal.
• The request is forwarded to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Consular, Passport, and Visa (CPV) Division through diplomatic channels with required documentation.
• A Magistrate of Extradition (typically a Magistrate of First Class) reviews the request and issues an arrest warrant after a detailed assessment.

2. Procedure for Extradition to India:

• The process starts when India sends a request to the foreign nation for the extradition of a criminal wanted in India.
• The MEA (CPV Division) forwards the request and documents to the foreign jurisdiction.
• A Magistrate in India issues an open-dated arrest warrant, and the request is then processed by the foreign nation following its legal procedures.

Prerequisites for Extradition

• Extraditable Persons: Individuals who can be extradited, excluding the following:
  • Nationals of the Territorial State: Many countries do not extradite their own citizens, even if they committed crimes abroad.
  • Political Offenders: Countries often refuse to extradite individuals accused of political crimes.

The Extradition Act of 1962

• Governs the extradition of fugitives (accused or convicted individuals) in India.
• India has extradition treaties with 48 countries and extradition arrangements with 12 countries, including Fiji, Italy, Peru, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand.
• The Act outlines procedures for extraditing offenders to and from countries that either have or do not have formal extradition treaties with India.

Guidelines and Legal Framework

• Extradition Act of 1962: Governs the process and terms of extradition.
• MEA Guidelines: Provides policies and procedures for making extradition requests under the “Guidelines on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters.”

Extradition Treaty:

• India-Bangladesh Treaty (2013): Signed to strengthen cooperation against insurgency and terrorism. Facilitates the transfer of fugitives, including those accused of political offenses.
• Article 6: Allows refusal of extradition if the request is based on offenses of a “political nature.”
• International Crimes (Tribunals) Act of 1973: Allows Bangladesh to prosecute crimes from the 1971 Independence War, but ensures due process and fairness.

Challenges to Extradition:

• Political Nature of Charges: India may reject the request under Article 6 if the charges are politically motivated.
• Fair Trial Concerns: Accusations of unfair trials and persecution may lead India to deny the request.
• Legal and Diplomatic Implications: A decision to refuse or grant extradition could impact India-Bangladesh diplomatic ties. Extradition would depend on balancing legal requirements with political considerations.

Potential Implications:

• Diplomatic Strain: Denying extradition could affect bilateral relations, especially amidst talks of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
• Regional Security and Cooperation: Extradition or refusal will have broader implications for regional security and India’s relations with Bangladesh.

Conclusion:

The request to extradite Sheikh Hasina places India in a complex legal and diplomatic situation. The decision, whether to extradite or refuse, will have significant consequences for bilateral ties and regional stability.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. With reference to the India-Bangladesh relations, consider the following statements:
2. The Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) between India and Bangladesh was signed in 2015, resolving the issue of exchange of enclaves between the two countries.
3. The Ganga Water Sharing Treaty between India and Bangladesh primarily regulates the distribution of water from the Teesta River.
4. Bangladesh shares both land and maritime boundaries with India.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

The Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) was signed in 2015, resolving the longstanding issue of enclaves between India and Bangladesh.

The Ganga Water Sharing Treaty (1996) between India and Bangladesh governs the distribution of Ganga waters, not the Teesta River. The Teesta water-sharing issue is a separate matter.

Bangladesh shares both land and maritime boundaries with India.

ONE NATION, ONE ELECTION (ONOE)

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE: THE HINDU

The Union Cabinet has moved forward with the proposal for “One Nation, One Election” (ONOE) based on the recommendations of a High-Level Committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind.

This initiative seeks to align elections for the Lok Sabha, state Assemblies, and local bodies through constitutional amendments.

Central Idea:

• Objective: The idea is to conduct elections for all state Assemblies simultaneously with the Lok Sabha elections every five years.
• Benefits: Streamlining the electoral process to reduce the frequency of elections, saving time, effort, and financial resources.

Background:

• Initial Practice: Simultaneous elections were common from the first General Elections in 1951-52 to 1967.
• Elections Held: The first four Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections (1951-52, 1957, 1962, 1967) were conducted together.
• Disruption: This cycle was broken due to premature dissolution of some Assemblies in 1968-69 and the early dissolution of the Lok Sabha in 1970, leading to separate elections.

Phased Implementation:

The transition to ONOE will take place in two phases:

• Synchronizing Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections.
• Aligning local body elections within 100 days of the first phase.

Constitutional Amendments Required:

• Key Amendments: Two Constitution Amendment Bills will be introduced.
• Approval: Requires a special majority in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, followed by ratification by at least half of the state legislatures.

State-Level Cooperation:

• State Role: The states’ cooperation is essential, particularly for ratifying amendments on local elections, as local governments fall under their jurisdiction.
• Political Dynamics: Upcoming state elections may impact the required consensus.

Mid-Term Elections and Unexpired Terms:

• Solution for Premature Dissolution:
  If a state Assembly or Lok Sabha dissolves before its term ends, mid-term elections will be held, but the elected body will serve only until the next simultaneous election.

Election Commission’s Role:

• Unified Electoral Roll:
  The Election Commission will develop a unified electoral roll for Lok Sabha, state, and local elections, in consultation with state Election Commissions to streamline voter databases nationwide.

Challenges Associated with One Nation, One Election (ONOE)

Constitutional Concerns and Mid-Tenure Collapse:

• Articles 83(2) and 172:
  These outline a five-year tenure for Lok Sabha and State Assemblies unless dissolved earlier. ONOE raises questions about handling mid-tenure collapses.
• President’s Rule Dilemma:
  If a government collapses before its term ends, there’s ambiguity over whether elections should be held for that state alone or if President’s Rule should be imposed.

Logistical Challenges in Implementing ONOE:

• Resource Management:
  Implementing ONOE requires extensive resources, including the availability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), personnel, and security.
• Election Commission’s Capacity:
  Managing such a massive election process could strain the Election Commission’s logistical abilities, creating challenges in coordination.

Federalism Concerns and Law Commission’s Findings:

• Federalism Conflict:
  ONOE challenges the principle of federalism, undermining the autonomy of state governments, as specified in Article 1 of the Constitution.
• Special Provisions for States:
  Article 371 grants special provisions to certain states, further complicating uniform election cycles.
• Law Commission Report:
  The Law Commission has deemed simultaneous elections infeasible within the existing constitutional framework, necessitating significant amendments.

Recurrence of Elections and Democratic Benefits:

• Frequent Elections:
  Frequent elections allow voters to express their opinions and prevent blending of national and state issues.
• Accountability:
  The current system ensures that each state’s unique demands are addressed, with greater accountability through recurring polls.

Biased Democratic Structure:

• IDFC Study Findings (2015):
  There’s a 77% chance that the same party wins both Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections when held simultaneously, compared to 61% when elections are six months apart. This creates a bias in favor of certain political parties.

Cost Implications and Economic Considerations:

• Cost Savings Debate:
  While ONOE may reduce costs per voter in the long run, short-term expenses for EVMs and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) could increase.
• Election Spending Benefits:
  Election spending has economic benefits, stimulating the economy and increasing government tax revenues despite initial expenses.

Legal Concerns:

• S.R. Bommai Case:
  The Supreme Court’s ruling emphasized the independent constitutional existence of states, which may be compromised under a common election process.

Language Bias in Consultation Process:

• Exclusion of Regional Languages:
  The High-Level Committee’s website for consultation is only available in English and Hindi, neglecting the 22 official languages of India, raising concerns about inclusivity.

Independence of the Election Commission:

• Concerns Over EC Autonomy:
  The Election Commission’s limited involvement in the High-Level Committee’s process raises doubts about its independence, similar to concerns raised during demonetization.

SHED THE MYOPIA, REFOCUS ON THE RELEVANCE OF ENGLISH

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

The debate over the role of English in India’s education system and socio-economic progress continues. It is argued that prioritizing regional languages over English, as supported by recent policies, may increase inequalities and limit opportunities for marginalized groups.

Historical Background:

• Post-independence, English was positioned as an important link language.
• National education policies, including the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, have gradually shifted focus toward promoting regional languages.
• English is often seen as a remnant of colonialism, and its significance has been minimized in recent years.

Key Issues:

Widening Inequality:

• English proficiency is a gateway to better socio-economic opportunities.
• Children from affluent backgrounds have access to better English education, while marginalized students in government schools are disadvantaged.
• The linguistic divide is evident as 90% of the population does not speak English, according to the 2011 census.

Neglect in Policy Implementation:

• The NEP 2020 does not sufficiently address the lack of English proficiency, especially among the economically deprived.
• While promoting regional languages is important, the policy overlooks English’s critical role in global trade, education, and communication.

Misguided Priorities:

• Successive governments have often prioritized nationalistic language policies, sometimes at the cost of economic and global competitiveness.
• The move to marginalize English risks alienating India from global economic benefits.

Consequences of Devaluing English:

• Hinders access to higher education and professional growth, particularly for marginalized communities.
• Weakens India’s competitiveness in international trade and global communication.
• Reinforces socio-economic disadvantages, creating a wider gap between rural and urban populations.

Need for a Balanced Approach:

• A bilingual education system that emphasizes both English and regional languages could bridge this divide.
• Recognizing English as an instrumental language for socio-economic mobility, alongside preserving India’s linguistic diversity, is essential for inclusive growth.

Conclusion:

English, as a tool for economic and social progress, should not be sidelined in favour of nationalistic language policies.

A pragmatic and balanced approach that respects both regional languages and English is crucial for India’s development and global participation. The government must prioritize an inclusive language policy that ensures equal opportunities for all citizens.

CREDIT GUARANTEE TRUST FOR MICRO AND SMALL ENTERPRISES (CGTMSE) SCHEME

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: TIMES OF INDIA

The CGTMSE scheme has recently enhanced credit guarantee coverage to 90% for women-owned micro and small enterprises, following the board’s approval of new guidelines.

About Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE):

• Launched: Initiated by the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (M/o MSME) in 2000.
• Objective: To enhance institutional credit flow to Micro & Small Enterprises (MSEs), especially for entrepreneurs lacking collateral or third-party guarantees.
• Start Date: Formally launched on August 30, 2000, operational since January 1, 2000.
• Key Goal: Facilitating credit access for underprivileged MSEs and new entrepreneurs in the MSME sector.

In Case of Default:

• Claim Settlement: The trust covers up to 75% (85%/80% where applicable) of the amount in default by the lending institution.

Eligible Credit Facility:

• Collateral-Free Credit: Facilitates up to Rs. 5 crores of collateral-free loans to MSEs through Member Lending Institutions.

Implementation and Setup:

• Joint Setup: Established by the Ministry of MSME, Government of India, and the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI).
• Funding: Corpus contributions are made by the Government of India and SIDBI in a 4:1 ratio.

Eligible Lending Institutions:

• Scheduled commercial banks (public, private, foreign banks),
• Select Regional Rural Banks (classified as ‘Sustainable Viable’ by NABARD),
• National Small Industries Corporation Ltd. (NSIC),
• North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd. (NEDFi),
• SIDBI,
• Selected small finance banks, and NBFCs.

• Guarantee Coverage:
  • 85% for micro enterprises (credit up to Rs. 5 lakhs).
  • 75% for credit ranging from Rs. 5 lakhs to Rs. 500 lakhs.
  • 80% for loans in the North East Region (including Sikkim, J&K, and Ladakh) for credits up to Rs. 50 lakhs; 75% for amounts above Rs. 50 lakhs.
  • 85% for MSMEs owned/operated by SC/ST entrepreneurs, Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), Agniveer-promoted MSEs, MSEs in Aspirational Districts, and ZED-certified MSEs.
  • 90% for women-owned/operated MSMEs.
  • 75% for other categories of borrowers.

EARTH TO TEMPORARILY GAIN A ‘MINI-MOON’

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

Earth’s gravitational field will briefly capture a small asteroid, 2024 PT5, in late September 2024.

This phenomenon, though rare, is not unprecedented, with such objects often burning up in the atmosphere or escaping into space.

What is a Mini-Moon?

• Mini moons are asteroids temporarily trapped by Earth’s gravity.
• Typically, small and hard to detect; only four have been identified so far.
• Some may originate as space debris from past missions.

About Asteroid 2024 PT5

• Discovered on August 7, 2024, using NASA’s ATLAS system.
• Measures 5 meters in diameter and will orbit Earth for around two months.
• Possibly part of a larger asteroid, resembling debris from the Moon or other celestial bodies.
• Likely to have an elliptical orbit before re-entering space.

Scientific Significance

• Studying 2024 PT5 will enhance understanding of near-Earth objects and asteroid trajectories.
• Helps improve predictions about asteroid interactions with Earth.
• Some researchers argue that due to its characteristics, 2024 PT5 may not fully qualify as a “mini-moon.”

Facts about the Formation of the Moon:

• Giant Impact Hypothesis:
  The most accepted theory suggests the Moon formed around 4.5 billion years ago after a Mars-sized body (Theia) collided with Earth. Debris from the impact coalesced to form the Moon.
• Age of the Moon: The Moon is roughly the same age as the Earth, estimated to be around 4.5 billion years old.
• Moon Composition: The Moon shares many elements with Earth, particularly the mantle, supporting the Giant Impact Hypothesis.
• No Atmosphere: The Moon lacks a significant atmosphere, which is why it has no weather or protective layer from space objects.
• Gradual Distance Increase: The Moon is slowly drifting away from the Earth by about 3.8 cm per year.

Reasons Why the Moon Revolves Around Earth:

• Gravitational Attraction: The Earth’s gravitational pull keeps the Moon in orbit around it, preventing it from drifting into space.
• Inertia: The Moon’s forward momentum (its tangential velocity) keeps it from falling directly into Earth. The balance between inertia and Earth’s gravity results in an orbit.
• Stable Orbit: The distance between Earth and the Moon is at a stable point, where Earth’s gravity is strong enough to hold the Moon in orbit without pulling it closer.
• Tidal Locking: Due to tidal forces, the Moon is tidally locked with Earth, meaning the same side of the Moon always faces Earth.

Conclusion
The temporary capture of 2024 PT5 offers a unique opportunity for scientists to learn more about small celestial bodies and their behaviour around Earth. These observations could contribute to future planetary defence strategies.

INDIA ABSTAINS FROM UNGA VOTE ON ISRAEL

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

The article discusses India’s abstention from a UN General Assembly vote on a resolution demanding Israel’s withdrawal from the Occupied Palestinian Territory within 12 months.

Working of the UN General Assembly (UNGA)

Session Timelines:

• Meets regularly from September to December each year.
• Can convene for special sessions when necessary.

Agenda and Resolutions:

• Discusses global issues through specific agenda items or sub-items.
• Examines concerns and adopts resolutions based on deliberations.

Key Functions:

• Elects non-permanent members of the Security Council.
• Approves the UN budget.
• Appoints the Secretary-General based on the Security Council’s recommendation.

Advisory Role:

• Offers guidance to member states on political, economic, humanitarian, social, and legal matters.
• Addresses issues across all pillars of the United Nations.

• Resolution: The Palestinian-drafted resolution condemned Israel’s continued presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and its disregard for international law and UN resolutions.
• Vote: The resolution was adopted with 124 votes in favor, 14 against, and 43 abstentions, including India’s.
• India’s Position: India abstained from the vote, joining countries like Australia, Canada, Germany, Italy, Nepal, Ukraine, and the UK.
• Israel’s Actions: The resolution recognized Israel’s international responsibility for its actions in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and demanded it be held accountable for any violations of international law.
• Legal Consequences: The resolution called for Israel to make reparations for any damage caused by its actions.

UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY (UNGA)

• Established: 1945 under the UN Charter.
• Headquarters: New York City.
• Role: One of the six main organs of the UN, the UNGA is the primary policy-making body and provides a platform for multilateral discussion on global issues.
• Membership: 193 Member States, each with one equal vote.

Key Functions of the UNGA

• Appointments: Appoints the UN Secretary-General based on the Security Council’s recommendation. Elects non-permanent members of the Security Council.
• Budget: Approves the UN budget.
• Advisory Role: Provides recommendations on political, economic, humanitarian, social, and legal issues.
• Agenda: Discusses international matters through agenda items and adopts resolutions.
• Sustainable Development: Adopted 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015 under the 2030 Agenda.
• Special Sessions: In 2022, convened to review the Secretary-General’s “Our Common Agenda” report aimed at enhancing multilateral cooperation and expediting the 2030 Agenda.

Conclusion:

India’s abstention from the UNGA vote reflects its nuanced stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict. While India has traditionally supported Palestinian rights, it has also maintained close ties with Israel. This vote highlights the complexities of India’s foreign policy in the Middle East.