1st-December-2023-Daily-Current-Affairs

JHARKHAND GOVERNOR CLEARS BILL HAVING PROVISION OF LIFE TERM FOR CHEATING IN EXAMS

GS 2 (POLITY AND GOVERNANCE): SOURCE – THE HINDU

Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan of Jharkhand has given approval to the Jharkhand Competitive Examination (Measure for Control and Prevention of Unfair Means in Recruitment) Bill, 2023. This bill introduces stringent measures against cheating in competitive exams, including a provision for life imprisonment and fines up to ₹10 crore.

Provisions of the Bill:

First Offense:

• Fine of ₹5 lakh and one-year imprisonment.
• Non-payment leads to an additional nine months’ imprisonment.

Second Offense:

• Fine of ₹10 lakh and three years of imprisonment.
• Non-payment results in an additional 30 months’ imprisonment.

Repeat Offenders:

• Examinees found guilty cannot participate in any competitive exam for 10 years.

Conspiracy Involvement:

• Printing press, exam management, transport, or coaching institutes engaging in conspiracy face 10 years to life imprisonment.
• Fines range from ₹2 crore to ₹10 crore, with an additional three years of imprisonment for non-payment.

Opposition and Controversies:

• The Opposition, particularly the BJP, opposed the Bill, likening it to the Rowlatt Act and dubbing it a “black law.” The clause prohibiting FIR filing by candidates and media representatives questioning exam-related documents has raised concerns.

Conclusion:

Jharkhand’s move to deter cheating in competitive exams through severe legal consequences is a significant step. The provision aims to maintain the integrity of examinations by penalizing individuals and entities involved in fraudulent activities. However, concerns over restrictions on filing FIRs warrant careful consideration to balance accountability and transparency.

FOR THE FIRST TIME, KERALA TO HOST TRANSPLANT GAMES

GS 2 (POLITY AND GOVERNANCE): SOURCE – THE HINDU

Kerala is set to host its inaugural Transplant Games, a distinctive event that celebrates the success of organ transplantation and promotes the message of organ donation. The initiative aims to showcase that organ transplant recipients can lead healthy, active lives, challenging common skepticism even within the medical community. The World Transplant Games Federation (WTGF), renowned for fostering competitive sports among transplant recipients worldwide since 1978, inspired this venture.

                              

Key Points:

Purpose of Transplant Games:

• Showcase the transformative impact of organ transplantation on recipients’ quality of life.
• Promote awareness about organ donation and celebrate the courage of recipients and the altruism of donors.

Enthusiastic Response:

• Over 350 registrations, spanning a diverse age group from 12-year-old kidney transplant recipient Varun Anand to a 74-year-old who received a kidney 34 years ago.

Event Details:

• Organized by the Heart Care Foundation with support from government and NGO partners.
• Scheduled for December 9 in Kochi, featuring 10 events including badminton, swimming, chess, and a 5km race walk.

Participants’ Stories:

• Emphasizing the ability of organ recipients to lead normal, physically active lives.
• Recognition of the resilience and determination of recipients and the selflessness of donors.

Conclusion:

Kerala’s inaugural Transplant Games marks a significant step in breaking stereotypes surrounding organ transplant recipients. By fostering a spirit of celebration and competition, the event not only showcases the success of organ transplantation but also reinforces the message that recipients and donors can lead fulfilling, physically active lives. The enthusiastic response reflects a positive shift in perceptions, encouraging broader support for organ donation.

CHANGING TIDE

GS 2 (INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS): SOURCE – THE HINDU

Recent developments in Myanmar indicate a shift in the dynamics of the civil war, raising hopes for a democratic resurgence after the military coup in February 2021. The Tatmadaw, Myanmar’s ruling junta, faces significant challenges as opposition militias gain ground, especially in rural areas. Coordinated attacks by the Three Brotherhood Alliance (TBA) have led to the junta losing multiple bases, stretching its forces thin in the conflict.

Key Points:

TBA and Opposition Militias:

• The Three Brotherhood Alliance, comprising various groups, has intensified attacks, impacting the junta’s control in northern Shan State and triggering hostilities in Rakhine State.
• The formation of Peoples’ Defense Forces by the National Unity Government (NUG) and ethnic forces has added to the junta’s challenges.

International Response:

• Most international actors condemn the coup, but explicit support for the NUG is limited, except for the European Parliament recognizing it as Myanmar’s legitimate government.
• India, while advocating democratic reforms, maintains cautious ties with the junta to counterbalance China’s influence.

India’s Dilemma:

• India’s support for democratic values coexists with a measured approach towards the junta, evident in accommodating fleeing soldiers into Mizoram.
• The evolving situation, with the junta resorting to oppressive tactics, prompts a reassessment of India’s relationship with the ruling regime.

Conclusion:

As Myanmar witnesses a transformative phase in its civil war, characterized by the junta’s vulnerabilities and growing opposition strength, India faces a crucial juncture. Balancing democratic principles with geopolitical considerations, India must reassess its ties to the junta. The junta’s oppressive actions, coupled with the NUG gaining legitimacy, signal a need for New Delhi to recalibrate its approach, aligning more closely with the prospects of a federal, democratic Myanmar.

₹2.23 LAKH CRORE TO BUY 97 TEJAS JETS, 156 PRACHAND HELICOPTERS

GS 3 (SECURITY): SOURCE – THE HINDU

The Union government has granted initial approval for defense acquisition projects worth ₹2.23 lakh crore, marking a significant stride in bolstering the combat capabilities of India’s armed forces. With 98% of the total procurement sourced domestically, this move aligns with India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

Key Points:

Aircraft Acquisition:

• The DAC’s approval includes the procurement of 97 Tejas light combat aircraft (Mark 1A) for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
• Additionally, 156 Prachand light combat helicopters are set to be acquired, catering to the Army and the IAF.

Strategic Upgrades:

• The DAC sanctioned the upgrade of the Indian Air Force’s Su-30 fighter fleet by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.
• Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) was granted for the acquisition of anti-tank munitions (ADM Type-2 and -3) to enhance combat capabilities.

Naval Capabilities:

• Acquisition and integration of automatic target tracker (ATT) and digital basaltic computer (DBC) for T-90 tanks received approval.
• The DAC sanctioned the purchase of medium-range anti-ship missiles (MRAShM) to fortify the Navy’s offensive capabilities.

Indigenous Focus:

• The DAC emphasized self-reliance, with 98% of procurement sourced domestically, aligning with the goal of aatmanirbharta in defense production.

Conclusion:

This landmark decision by the Defence Acquisition Council signifies a substantial investment in enhancing India’s defense capabilities. The approval for advanced aircraft, helicopters, and strategic upgrades, coupled with a strong emphasis on indigenous production, reflects a strategic move towards self-sufficiency in defense. As India navigates complex geopolitical challenges, these acquisitions are poised to strengthen the armed forces and contribute to the nation’s defense preparedness.

FAST TRACK SPECIAL COURTS (FTSCS) SCHEME

GS 2 (POLITY AND GOVERNANCE): SOURCE – THE HINDU

The Union Cabinet has granted approval for the continuation of the Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) Scheme until March 31, 2026. Launched in 2019, the FTSCs initiative aims to expedite trials related to sexual offenses and enhance the safety of women in India. The scheme is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme implemented by the Department of Justice under the Ministry of Law & Justice.

    

Key Points:

Scheme Overview:

• FTSCs were established in 2019 as dedicated courts for expeditious hearings of cases related to rape and offenses under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act).

Funding Mechanism:

• The Central Share of funding for FTSCs is allocated from the Nirbhaya Fund, specifically designated for improving the safety and security of women in the country.

Legal Framework:

• The enactment of the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2018, introducing stringent punishment, including the death penalty for rape offenders, prompted the creation of FTSCs.

Operational Status:

• Currently, 761 FTSCs, including 414 exclusive POCSO Courts, are operational in 30 States and Union Territories. These courts have successfully resolved over 1.95 lakh cases.

Benefits of FTSCs:

• Combatting Violence: FTSCs play a pivotal role in addressing sexual and gender-based violence.
• Case Clearance: The scheme contributes to reducing the backlog of cases related to Rape and the POCSO Act, alleviating the burden on the judicial system.
• Swift Justice: Ensures prompt access to justice for victims of sexual crimes through improved facilities and expedited trials.
• Judicial Efficiency: Aims to lessen the overall burden of cases on the judicial system.

Concerns:

• Challenges associated with FTSCs include a lack of IT infrastructure, the need for specialized training for judges, and an insufficient number of judges.

Conclusion:

The extension of the Fast Track Special Courts Scheme underscores the government’s commitment to expediting justice for victims of sexual offenses. While the initiative has shown positive results, addressing concerns related to infrastructure and judicial capacity will be crucial for its continued effectiveness. The FTSCs stand as a significant step toward ensuring a swifter and more efficient legal recourse for survivors of sexual crimes in India.

UNION CABINET APPROVES TERMS OF REFERENCE (TOR) FOR THE SIXTEENTH FINANCE COMMISSION (FC)

GS 3 (ECONOMY): SOURCE – TIMES OF INDIA

The Union Cabinet has given its approval for the Terms of Reference (ToR) for the Sixteenth Finance Commission (16th FC), a constitutional body set up every five years under Article 280 of the Constitution. The primary responsibility of the Finance Commission involves addressing vertical imbalances in taxation powers and expenditure responsibilities between the center and states, along with equalizing public services across states.

Key Points:

Nature of the Finance Commission:

• The Finance Commission (FC) is a constitutional body established by the President every fifth year to address fiscal imbalances between the center and states.

Role of the FC:

• The FC’s mandate includes recommending the distribution of taxes and grants, following the terms of reference set by the finance ministry and approved by the central government.

Terms of Reference for the 16th FC:

• Focus areas include the distribution of net tax proceeds between the Union and States, principles governing grants-in-aid and revenues of states under Article 275, measures to enhance the Consolidated Fund of a State for Panchayats and Municipalities, and a potential review of financing Disaster Management initiatives.

Duration of Recommendations:

• The 16th FC’s recommendations, once accepted by the government, will be applicable for a five-year period commencing from April 1, 2026. The 15th FC, chaired by NK Singh, provided recommendations for the period 2020-21 to 2025-26.

15th FC Recommendations:

• The previous commission recommended a 41% share of states in central taxes for vertical devolution. Criteria for horizontal devolution included factors like income distance, area, population (2011), demographic performance, forest and ecology, and tax and fiscal efforts.
• The 15th FC also suggested reducing the fiscal deficit to 4% of GDP by 2025-26.

Conclusion:

The approval of the Terms of Reference for the 16th Finance Commission marks a crucial step in addressing fiscal imbalances and ensuring the equitable distribution of resources between the central government and states. The commission’s recommendations will play a pivotal role in shaping the fiscal landscape for the specified five-year period, contributing to the overall economic and financial stability of the country.

PRADHAN MANTRI JANJATI ADIVASI NYAYA MAHA ABHIYAN (PM JANMAN)

GS 2 (POLITY AND GOVERNANCE): SOURCE – THE HINDU

The Union Cabinet has sanctioned the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN) with a total allocation of Rs. 24,104 crore.

                 

This initiative, to be implemented over the next three years under the Development Action Plan for Scheduled Tribes, is aimed at safeguarding tribes on the brink of extinction.

Covering 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) across 18 states and union territories, PM-JANMAN will concentrate on 11 critical interventions, spanning areas such as connecting roads, safe housing, water supply, health facilities, vocational education, and skilling.

The project reflects the government’s commitment to nurturing and preserving the well-being of these marginalized communities.