22-October-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

GLOBAL WATER CRISIS WARNING (TH)

The Global Commission on the Economics of Water has issued a report emphasizing the urgent need for improved water management to prevent a significant global water crisis.

Key Warnings from the Commission:

• Severe Water Shortage: The report predicts a 40% gap between freshwater demand and supply by 2030.
• Threat to Food Production: Over half of global food production could be at risk without better water management practices.
• Economic Impact: A potential decline in global GDP by 8% by 2050 is forecasted, with poorer countries facing losses of up to 15%.
• Child Mortality Rates: Currently, more than 1,000 children die daily due to unsafe water access, predominantly in developing nations.
• Inefficient Water Use: The report identifies agricultural subsidies that promote wasteful water use and highlights that 80% of industrial wastewater remains unprocessed.

Why Developing Countries Are More Vulnerable:

• Geographical Vulnerability: Many developing nations are situated in areas prone to extreme weather, increasing their susceptibility to climate change.
• Economic Dependency on Agriculture: Developing economies heavily rely on agriculture, which is directly affected by changing climate conditions.
• High Financial Costs: The cost of capital for climate technologies is significantly higher in developing countries compared to developed nations.
• Competing Developmental Needs: Limited resources must also address basic needs, such as electricity access for millions lacking it.

Challenges in India:

• Groundwater Depletion: India faces significant challenges related to groundwater depletion, as noted in a NITI Aayog report from 2018.
• Internal Disputes: Resolving internal water disputes is critical for India before it can actively participate in international water conservation efforts.

Proposed Solutions:

• Global Pact for Water Conservation: The Commission calls for a worldwide agreement focused on better management and conservation of water resources.
• Local Adaptation: Countries should tailor global recommendations to their specific contexts, emphasizing the resolution of internal water disputes, particularly relevant for India.
• Reframing Water as a Global Common Good: This perspective shift is essential for sustainable water management and encourages collective responsibility among nations.

Understanding Climate Finance:

• Definition: Climate finance refers to funding aimed at supporting projects for climate mitigation and adaptation, sourced from both public and private entities.
• OECD Tracking: The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development tracks international climate finance flows, noting that loans accounted for 69.4% and grants for 28% of public climate finance in 2022.

Financial Needs for India’s Climate Goals:

• Ambitious Targets: India aims for 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity, 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen production, and expanded electric vehicle usage by 2030.
• Estimated Funding: To achieve these goals, India requires approximately ₹40.8 lakh crore by 2030, with additional needs for renewable energy and electric vehicle adoption.

New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG):

• Objective: The NCQG seeks to establish a new annual climate finance target, focusing on actual disbursals rather than just commitments.
• Funding Requirements: An expert group estimates that developing countries, excluding China, will need $1 trillion annually by 2030 to meet climate objectives.

Conclusion:

Both the warnings regarding the global water crisis and the critical need for climate finance underscore the interconnectedness of environmental sustainability and economic stability. Addressing these challenges is essential for supporting vulnerable nations and ensuring sustainable development worldwide.

INDIA’S SOLAR ENERGY GOALS ARE FACING CHALLENGES DUE TO ITS HEAVY RELIANCE ON IMPORTED EQUIPMENT (TH)

India’s ambitious goal of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, predominantly through solar power, faces significant obstacles primarily due to its heavy reliance on imported solar equipment from China.

Heavy Reliance on Imports:

• India’s solar industry is significantly dependent on imports, with Chinese manufacturers dominating the market. In 2023-24, solar equipment imports reached $7 billion, of which 62.6% originated from China.
• China’s control over 97% of global polysilicon production and 80% of solar modules highlights the vulnerability of India’s solar ambitions.

Limited Domestic Manufacturing:

• Current domestic solar manufacturing largely consists of assembly rather than production, resulting in only 15% local value addition.
• Essential components like polysilicon, solar cells, and aluminum frames are largely unavailable domestically, creating challenges for a self-sufficient ecosystem.

Need for Self-Reliance:

• To reduce import dependence, India must focus on upstream production, including the refinement of silica and polysilicon production.
• Investment in domestic capabilities for manufacturing aluminium frames and glass is critical and requires robust government support and R&D initiatives.

Global Context:

• China’s dominance in solar equipment manufacturing, with exports valued at $39.5 billion in 2023, puts India at a competitive disadvantage.
• Collaboration with global partners like the US, EU, and Japan can facilitate technology transfer and the establishment of manufacturing facilities in India.

Recommendations for Enhancement

• Streamlined Land Acquisition: Implement a centralized land bank system to expedite land acquisition for solar projects, focusing on pre-clearing non-agricultural lands to enhance project efficiency.
• Grid Modernization: Invest in smart grid technologies and energy management systems to better integrate and manage the variability of solar energy, ensuring reliability in energy supply.
• Innovative Financing Mechanisms: Establish a dedicated Green Bank to support renewable energy projects with low-interest loans and risk mitigation tools to attract private investments.
• Phased Manufacturing Program: Develop a comprehensive manufacturing program covering the entire solar value chain, from polysilicon to modules, to bolster domestic production capabilities.
• National Energy Storage Mission: Create clear targets and incentives for energy storage technologies, ensuring a robust infrastructure to handle excess solar energy production.
• Skill Development Programs: Establish solar skill development centers, particularly in rural areas, to train the workforce needed for solar project implementation and maintenance.
• Water-Efficient Cleaning Technologies: Promote the use of robotic dry-cleaning systems for solar panels in water-stressed regions, reducing water usage while maintaining panel efficiency.
• Accelerating Rooftop Solar Adoption: Revamp the rooftop solar ecosystem by simplifying regulations, providing subsidies, and enhancing public awareness to encourage widespread adoption.

Conclusion

India’s journey towards achieving its solar energy targets is fraught with challenges, particularly in overcoming reliance on imports and enhancing domestic manufacturing. Strategic investments and policy reforms are essential to foster a sustainable and self-reliant solar ecosystem.

INDIA’S GROWING RELIANCE ON AGRICULTURE FOR RURAL LIVELIHOODS (TH)

Despite overall economic growth, presents a perplexing situation. The increase in agricultural dependence raises critical questions about job creation and economic diversification in post-pandemic India.

Increasing Dependence on Agriculture:

• The NABARD All India Rural Financial Inclusion Survey (2021-22) reveals that the proportion of rural households engaged in agriculture rose from 48% in 2016-17 to 57% in 2021-22.
• This shift represents a reversal of the earlier trend where rural areas were gradually moving away from agricultural work.

Income Trends in Agricultural Households:

• Agricultural households now earn more monthly than their non-agricultural counterparts, indicating a significant rise in income from farming.
• There is a notable increase in income derived from farming activities, including cultivation and animal husbandry, while income from non-farming sources has decreased.

Impact of COVID-19:

• The pandemic significantly influenced this trend. While many sectors faced disruptions, agriculture was exempt from lockdowns, allowing it to remain stable.
• Favourable monsoons during this period bolstered agricultural productivity, which contributed to agriculture’s increased share in rural livelihoods.

Economic Growth vs. Agricultural Dependence:

• Despite India’s overall economic growth, the share of the rural workforce engaged in agriculture remains high.
• Data from the Periodic Labour Force Surveys (PLFS) indicates a reversal in the decline of agricultural employment since 2018-19, suggesting stagnant job creation in other sectors like manufacturing.

Limited Job Creation in Other Sectors:

• Instead of transitioning to more productive factory jobs, surplus labor from agriculture has moved into low-paying sectors such as trade and construction.
• This trend highlights the challenges faced in creating substantial employment opportunities outside of agriculture, even as the economy expands.

Regional Disparities:

• There are significant regional variations in agricultural employment. States like Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh exhibit high agricultural engagement, while states such as Goa, Kerala, and Punjab show much lower levels.
• These disparities reflect differing economic structures and opportunities beyond agriculture, impacting how rural economies evolve.

Need for Diversification and Policy Focus:

• The increasing reliance on agriculture amidst economic growth underscores a critical need for policies aimed at industrial growth and diversification.
• Encouraging investment in manufacturing and other sectors can help alleviate the pressure on agriculture and provide better job opportunities for the rural workforce.

Challenges to Agricultural Sustainability:

• While agriculture has become a stable source of income, challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and market fluctuations can threaten this dependence.
• Sustainable practices and support for farmers are essential to ensure long-term viability in the agricultural sector.

Conclusion

The paradox of rising agricultural dependence amid economic growth highlights the complexities of rural livelihoods in India. Addressing this issue requires targeted policy interventions to promote diversification and job creation in various sectors, ensuring a more balanced economic future for rural communities.

THE WORLD BANK’S “POVERTY, PROSPERITY, AND PLANET REPORT FOR 2024 (IE)

The World Bank’s “Poverty, Prosperity, and Planet: Pathways out of the Polycrisis” report for 2024 highlights the ongoing challenges of poverty and inequality in the context of global economic recovery post-pandemic. It emphasizes the need for urgent and inclusive measures to combat these interconnected crises.

The Global Poverty Situation

• Current Global Poverty Levels: Around 8.5% of the world’s population, equating to nearly 700 million individuals, live in extreme poverty, defined as living on less than $2.15 a day.
• Concentration of Poverty: Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for 67% of those in extreme poverty, despite representing only 16% of the world’s population in 2024. This highlights the regional disparities in poverty distribution.
• Poverty in India: India saw an increase in the number of people living below the poverty line in 2024 compared to 1990, largely due to population growth. In 2024, about 129 million Indians live in extreme poverty, down from 431 million in 1990.
• Stagnation in Poverty Reduction: The pace of global poverty reduction has nearly stalled, with projections indicating that it could take decades to eradicate extreme poverty and by 2030, it is estimated that 622 million people, or 7.3% of the global population, may still be living in extreme poverty.
• Future Projections for India: India’s contribution to global extreme poverty is expected to decline significantly over the next decade, with forecasts suggesting that extreme poverty could be eradicated in India by 2030.
• Underlying Causes of Poverty Stagnation: The report identifies interconnected crises, including slow economic growth, conflict, fragility, and climate-related shocks, as significant factors hindering poverty reduction.
• Recommendations for Progress: Promoting sustainable investments, mitigating climate risks, and creating inclusive growth opportunities are essential to address these challenges effectively.

Understanding the Global Prosperity Gap

• Definition of Shared Prosperity: Shared prosperity measures the inclusiveness of economic growth, focusing on income levels of the poorest segments of society.

• Global Prosperity Gap: This new indicator tracks how far countries are from the threshold of $25 per person per day, revealing a significant slowdown in inclusive growth since the pandemic.
• Impact of Inequality: High levels of inequality, prevalent in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America, hinder socioeconomic mobility and impede poverty reduction.
• Long-Term Forecasts: Current growth rates suggest that it could take around 100 years for an upper-middle-income country to close the prosperity gap, underscoring the need for faster and more inclusive growth.

Climate Change Risks to Poverty and Inequality Reduction

• Climate Risks: One in five individuals faces the risk of extreme weather events, which can severely impact livelihoods and hinder poverty reduction efforts.
• Growing Threat: Without enhancing resilience and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, vulnerabilities to climate hazards will continue to rise.
• Dual Approach Needed: Efforts must focus on lowering vulnerability through better risk management and preventing future climate hazards by transitioning to low-carbon growth.
• Recommendations for Different Income Levels: Low-income countries should prioritize poverty reduction alongside economic growth. Middle-income countries must focus on income growth that reduces vulnerability while lowering carbon intensity. Upper-middle- and high-income countries, which are responsible for the majority of global emissions, need to transition rapidly to low-carbon economies.

Conclusion

The “Poverty, Prosperity, and Planet” report underscores the urgent need for inclusive and sustainable growth to combat poverty and inequality effectively. Achieving a world free from poverty while addressing climate change requires immediate and coordinated global efforts.

LADY JUSTICE STATUE(TH)

The recent unveiling of a new statue of “Lady Justice” by the Supreme Court represents a significant reimagining of a longstanding legal symbol. This new version aims to reflect contemporary values and the evolving understanding of justice in India.

Key points Lady Justice Statue

Traditional Imagery:

• The classical representation of Lady Justice features a blindfolded woman holding scales in one hand and a sword in the other, symbolizing impartiality and the balance of justice.
• The blindfold historically represents justice’s neutrality, suggesting that it is administered without bias.

Historical Roots:

• The imagery of Lady Justice dates back to ancient Greek and Roman mythology. Themis, a Titaness in Greek mythology, embodies justice, wisdom, and good counsel.
• The Romans worshipped Justice as Justitia, who, like Themis, was initially not depicted with a blindfold.
• The addition of the blindfold during the Renaissance likely served as a commentary on the corrupt nature of legal systems at the time, highlighting the need for impartiality.

Colonial Influence in India:

• The British Raj introduced the iconography of Lady Justice in India, with representations appearing in significant legal institutions, such as the Calcutta High Court, built in 1872.

The New Statue:

• The new statue stands six feet tall and depicts a saree-clad woman without a blindfold, holding scales and a copy of the Constitution of India.
• The absence of the blindfold signifies that the law sees all individuals equally, emphasizing transparency and accountability in the legal system.

Design and Symbolism:

• Designed by Vinod Goswami, the new statue reflects a shift towards a more inclusive and accessible understanding of justice.
• By removing the blindfold, the statue communicates that justice should be aware of and responsive to the societal context and the needs of individuals.

Cultural Relevance:

• The reimagined Lady Justice resonates with modern legal principles, reflecting India’s commitment to equality and justice for all its citizens.
• This representation encourages a critical reflection on how justice is administered and serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for reform and improvement within the legal system.

Conclusion

The unveiling of the new Lady Justice statue marks a pivotal moment in India’s legal landscape, symbolizing a commitment to transparency, equality, and the evolving nature of justice. It serves as a powerful reminder of the principles that should guide the legal system in the pursuit of fairness for all.

NOTES ON THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF INDIA’S CONSTITUTION (TH)

On November 26, 2024, India will celebrate the 75th anniversary of its Constitution. This milestone is significant for every participant in Indian democracy. Constitutional governance goes beyond laws; it fosters a shared constitutional culture among diverse communities across India.

Core Constitutional Values

Respect for Democratic Institutions

1. • The Constitution was adopted in 1949 when life expectancy was just 32 years; now it is around 70 years.
   • Improved living standards have increased respect for democratic institutions.
   • Despite challenges, over 60% of Indians participate in elections consistently.
   • The recent general election saw a voter turnout of 65.79%, reflecting strong democratic engagement.

Smooth Transition of Power

1. • India has witnessed numerous elections and peaceful transitions of power among various political parties.
   • Despite intense competition, there is a deep commitment to ensuring a smooth handover of power after elections.
   • This tradition showcases the electorate’s understanding of governance and its role in democratic process.

Protection of Rights

1. • The Constitution emphasizes the protection of fundamental rights through the judiciary.
   • The framers, who were part of the freedom movement, prioritized individual rights to prevent state overreach.
   • This commitment has grown stronger, highlighting the importance of safeguarding freedoms against state power.

Federalism in Governance

1. • The Constitution recognizes India’s diversity, including linguistic and cultural plurality.
   • Special provisions were established for different states to respect their unique identities while promoting national unity.
   • The evolution of federalism includes the rise of state parties and the establishment of local governance through the 73rd and 74th Amendments.

Role of Media and Civil Society

1. • The Indian media is varied and plays a crucial role in promoting democracy.
   • Technological advancements have democratized information access, fostering informed public discourse.
   • Despite challenges regarding media independence, its contribution to transparency and civic engagement is vital.

Constitution of India

• Date of Celebration: Constitution Day, or Samvidhan Diwas, is celebrated on 26th November each year in India.
• Purpose: The day commemorates the adoption of the Constitution of India in 1949 and promotes awareness about its significance.
• Drafting Committee: On 29th August 1947, the Constituent Assembly established a Drafting Committee chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar to create the Constitution.
• Adoption of the Constitution: The Constitution was adopted on 26th November 1949 and came into effect on 26th January 1950.
• Official Notification: The Government of India decided to celebrate 26th November as Constitution Day on 19th November 2015.
• Focus on B.R. Ambedkar: The day highlights the ideas and contributions of B.R. Ambedkar, the principal architect of the Constitution.

Key Facts About the Constitution of India

• Length: The Constitution of India is the longest written constitution of any sovereign nation in the world.
• Languages: It was originally written in English and Hindi.
• Handwritten Document: The Constitution was handwritten by Prem Behari Narain Raizada in calligraphy, with decorative artwork by artists from Shantiniketan under Nandalal Bose.
• Timeframe for Framing: The drafting took 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days to complete.
• Foundation: The Constitution is based on the Government of India Act, 1935.
• Core Principles: It establishes India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic, ensuring justice, equality, and liberty for its citizens and promoting fraternity.
• Drafting Committee: The Constitution was drafted by a committee of seven members, led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who is known as the father of the Indian Constitution.
• Influences: It draws inspiration from various global constitutions, including those of the USA, UK, Ireland, France, Canada, Australia, and Japan.

Conclusion
As we celebrate 75 years of constitutional governance, it’s clear that India has forged a strong national identity rooted in constitutional ideals. The Constitution has not only been a legal framework but also a catalyst for social and political consciousness, disproving scepticism about India’s unity and democracy.

SATELLITE SPECTRUM AND THE DEBATE ON AUCTIONS (TH)

Satellite spectrum is a crucial resource for satellite communication services like broadband and television broadcasting. The allocation of this spectrum has been a topic of much debate, with many countries opting for administrative processes over auctions. This article explores the reasons behind this preference.

Understanding Satellite Spectrum

• What is Satellite Spectrum? It is the range of radio frequencies used for communication between satellites and ground stations.
• Global Scope: Unlike terrestrial spectrum, which is limited to national boundaries, satellite spectrum has an international reach.
• International Regulation: The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) oversees the global allocation and management of satellite spectrum.

Why Auctions Are Not the Norm for Satellite Spectrum

• Non-Exclusive Nature: Unlike terrestrial spectrum, which is allocated exclusively to a single operator in a specific area, satellite spectrum can be used by multiple operators simultaneously. This makes it difficult to establish a fair auction system.
• International Coordination: The global nature of satellite spectrum requires international coordination, making auctions complex and potentially inefficient.
• Technical Challenges: Auctions can be challenging to conduct for satellite spectrum due to the specialized nature of the technology and the need to consider factors like orbital slots and interference management.

Administrative Allocation: The Preferred Method

• Efficiency and Simplicity: Administrative allocation is often seen as a more efficient and straightforward process for assigning satellite spectrum.
• Fairness and Equity: Governments can use administrative processes to ensure fair and equitable distribution of satellite spectrum among different operators.
• Flexibility: Administrative allocation allows for flexibility in responding to changing market conditions and technological advancements.

The Indian Context

• Government Decision: India has recently decided to allocate satellite spectrum through administrative processes rather than auctions.
• Reliance Jio’s Proposal: Reliance Jio had advocated for auctions, but the government’s decision was likely influenced by factors like the international nature of satellite spectrum and the potential challenges of conducting a fair auction.

Conclusion

While auctions have been a common method for allocating terrestrial spectrum, the unique characteristics of satellite spectrum make administrative allocation a more suitable approach. The decision by many countries, including India, to adopt administrative processes reflects the practical and regulatory challenges associated with auctions for this type of spectrum.

THE NEED FOR DELIBERATION AND REGIONAL AUTONOMY(TH)

The recent protests in Ladakh highlight the consequences of governance decisions made without local input. Since the abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and its division into Union Territories (UTs), including Ladakh, local sentiments have shifted significantly, revealing the importance of deliberation and regional autonomy.

Background of the Situation

• Abrogation of Special Status: In 2019, Jammu and Kashmir’s special status was revoked, and the region was split into UTs. This change was initially met with hope by some residents.
• Mixed Reactions: A Lokniti survey showed that 40% of Jammu residents oppose the abrogation, with many calling for the restoration of statehood.

Protests in Ladakh

• Local Discontent: While the decision to create a UT was justified as a response to demands from residents of Ladakh, ongoing protests indicate widespread dissatisfaction.
• Demand for Statehood: Protesters are now calling for statehood or inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which provides for greater autonomy in governance for tribal areas.

Issues with Current Governance

• Lack of Legislative Power: Ladakh, as a UT, does not have a legislature, limiting local governance and representation. This has led to frustrations among residents.
• Role of Hill Councils: Although Ladakh has two Autonomous Hill Councils (in Leh and Kargil), their powers are insufficient compared to the authority centralized in New Delhi.

Local Concerns Overlooked

• Security vs. Local Needs: Post-2019, Ladakh has been primarily viewed through a security lens due to border tensions with China. This focus has sidelined pressing local issues.
• Unaddressed Issues: Concerns regarding livelihoods, environmental challenges (like water scarcity and pollution), and land access for pastoral communities remain largely ignored.

Call for Action

• Need for Deliberation: The absence of a legislative body has led to feelings of disenfranchisement among Ladakhi’s. Their voices and concerns must be included in the governance process.
• Government’s Role: The Union Government needs to address the legitimate demands of Ladakh, particularly regarding statehood, to alleviate growing discontent.

Importance of Asymmetric Federalism

• Preserving Federalism: The situation in Ladakh emphasizes the necessity of maintaining India’s “asymmetric federalism,” which allows for tailored governance to address regional grievances effectively.

What Makes Ladakh Significant for India?

• Geopolitical Importance: Strategic Location: Ladakh is known as “the Land of Passes” and sits at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia, and East Asia, giving it significant geopolitical importance.
• Strategic Significance/Military Presence: The Indian Armed Forces maintain a strong presence in Ladakh to protect the region and counter external threats.
• Adventure Tourism: Known as the “Lama Land” or “Little Tibet,” Ladakh offers activities like trekking, mountaineering, and Buddhist monastery tours at altitudes from 9,000 to 25,170 feet.
• Silk Route History: Ladakh is part of the ancient Silk Route, influencing culture, religion, and trade.
• Monastic Heritage: Historical monasteries like Hemis, Thiksey, and Diskit serve as cultural and spiritual centres.

Arguments in Favor of Ladakh’s Demand for Inclusion in the Sixth Schedule

• Loss of Autonomy: Since becoming a Union Territory in 2019, Ladakh lacks local representation in governance, leading to concerns about decision-making.
• Reduced Governance: The previous Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) had significant power, which has diminished under direct central rule.
• Lack of Public Participation: The absence of legislative protection for jobs, land, and culture has created feelings of insecurity among Ladakhi’s.
• Sensitive Borders: Ladakh’s borders with China and Pakistan create ongoing security challenges that require local support for strategic infrastructure development.
• Preservation of Cultural Identity: Inclusion in the Sixth Schedule would help protect Ladakh’s unique cultural heritage and customs, giving communities greater autonomy.
• Strengthening Grassroots Governance: Establishing autonomous councils would enhance democratic processes at the local level, promoting accountability and inclusive governance.

Sixth Schedule

Article 244

• Autonomous Administrative Divisions: The Sixth Schedule provides for the creation of Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) with legislative and administrative powers.

Current Status

• Applicable States: The Sixth Schedule currently applies to the northeastern states of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.

Autonomous Districts

• Formation of Districts: The governor can organize and reorganize autonomous districts within these states.

District Council Structure

• Composition: Each district council consists of 30 members, with four nominated by the governor and the rest elected.

Powers of the Council

• Legislative Authority: Councils can legislate on matters like land, forests, village administration, and social customs, but laws require the governor’s approval.
• Local Governance: They can establish village councils, manage local resources, and collect land revenue, facilitating local development.

Conclusion
The protests in Ladakh serve as a reminder that governance must be inclusive and considerate of local perspectives. Addressing the demands for statehood and enhancing local governance structures can foster greater trust and stability in the region.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION:

Which of the following statements are correct regarding the reorganization of Ladakh in 2019?

1. Ladakh was separated from Jammu and Kashmir and designated as a Union Territory on October 31, 2019.
2. The reorganization of Ladakh included the restoration of its special status similar to that of Jammu and Kashmir prior to abrogation.
3. The Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which provides for greater autonomy in certain regions, has been applied to Ladakh following its reorganization.

Which of the following statements is/are correct?

A.1 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3

Correct Answer:(A)1 only

Explanation:

• Ladakh was indeed designated as a Union Territory on October 31, 2019.
• The reorganization did not restore any special status; it removed the special status that Jammu and Kashmir previously had.
• The Sixth Schedule has not been applied to Ladakh following its reorganization.

Z-MORH TUNNEL: A STRATEGIC LIFELINE IN KASHMIR(IE)

The Z-Morh tunnel is a vital infrastructure project in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Located on the Srinagar-Leh highway, it is part of the larger Zojila tunnel project, which aims to provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar, Drass, Kargil, and Leh. This article explores the significance of the Z-Morh tunnel and its strategic importance for India.

Understanding the Z-Morh Tunnel

• Location: The tunnel is situated near Gagangir village, approximately 10 kilometres from Sonmarg, a popular tourist destination in central Kashmir.
• Length: The tunnel is 6.4 kilometres long.
• Purpose: It connects the town of Kangan to Sonmarg, bypassing a treacherous stretch of road that is prone to heavy snowfall and avalanches.
• Construction: The tunnel is being built by APCO Infratech, a construction firm.

Strategic Importance of the Z-Morh Tunnel

• All-Weather Connectivity: The tunnel will provide year-round connectivity between Srinagar and Leh, which is currently disrupted during the winter months due to heavy snowfall. This will enhance accessibility to the Ladakh region, which is strategically important for India.
• Military Logistics: The Z-Morh tunnel will facilitate the movement of troops and supplies to Ladakh, a region bordering Pakistan and China. This will improve India’s military readiness in the area.
• Economic Benefits: The tunnel will boost tourism to Sonmarg and other parts of Kashmir, leading to economic development and job creation.
• Infrastructure Development: The Z-Morh tunnel is part of a larger infrastructure development plan in Kashmir, which aims to improve connectivity and boost economic growth in the region.

Zojila Tunnel Project

• Part of the Project: The Z-Morh tunnel is a crucial component of the Zojila tunnel project, which involves constructing a 14-kilometer-long tunnel between Sonmarg and Drass.
• Strategic Significance: The Zojila tunnel project will further enhance connectivity to Ladakh and provide a vital alternative route for military and civilian traffic.

Challenges and Progress

• Construction Delays: The construction of the Z-Morh tunnel has faced several delays due to various factors, including unfavourable weather conditions and logistical challenges.
• Completion Timeline: The tunnel is expected to be completed by December 2026.

Conclusion

The Z-Morh tunnel is a strategically important infrastructure project that will significantly benefit India. It will improve connectivity to Ladakh, enhance military logistics, boost tourism, and contribute to the overall development of Kashmir. The successful completion of this project will be a major milestone for India’s infrastructure development efforts in the region.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION:

Which of the following statements are correct regarding the passes of Kashmir, including Zojila Pass, and the rivers that flow through them?

1. Zojila Pass connects Srinagar to Leh and is situated in the Himalayas.
2. Khardung La is considered one of the highest motorable roads in the world and also connects Leh with the Nubra Valley.
3. The Indus River flows through the Zojila Pass and is one of the major rivers in the region.

Which of the following statements is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3

Correct Answer:(A)1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Zojila Pass indeed connects Srinagar to Leh and is located in the Himalayas.
• Khardung La is one of the highest motorable passes and connects Leh with the Nubra Valley.
• The Indus River does not flow through Zojila Pass; it flows through the Ladakh region, but not directly through this pass.

THE POPULATION QUESTION: A GROWING CONCERN IN SOUTH INDIA(IE)

The aging population in South India has become a significant concern, prompting discussions on population policies and internal migration. This article explores the factors contributing to this trend, potential solutions, and the broader implications for the region.

Understanding the Demographic Shift

• Declining Fertility Rates: Southern states like Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu have achieved lower fertility rates compared to northern states, leading to a faster demographic transition.
• Increasing Life Expectancy: Improved healthcare has resulted in longer life spans, contributing to the growing proportion of older individuals.
• Aging Population: The percentage of people aged 60 and above is projected to increase significantly in the coming years, particularly in southern states.

Implications of an Aging Population

• Economic Impact: A smaller working-age population can strain economic growth and create challenges for social security systems.
• Dependency Ratio: An increase in the dependency ratio, which is the ratio of non-working to working-age individuals, can burden the economy.
• Social Services: The government may need to allocate more resources to healthcare and social services for the elderly.

Potential Solutions

• Incentivizing Childbirth: Some argue that providing incentives for childbirth could encourage couples to have more children. However, there is limited evidence that such policies are effective.
• Internal Migration: Migration from northern states to southern states can help offset the impact of a declining population and provide a source of young workers.
• Economic Growth: Promoting economic growth and creating job opportunities can attract migrants and boost the overall economy.

The Role of Government Policies

• Social Security: Governments need to strengthen social security systems to support the growing elderly population.
• Healthcare: Investing in healthcare infrastructure and services is crucial for ensuring the well-being of older individuals.
• Education: Promoting education and skill development can help prepare the workforce for the future and enhance productivity.

Demographic Dividend:

Demographic dividend refers to a period when a country’s population is predominantly of working age.

This demographic structure can lead to economic growth if the right conditions are in place, such as adequate education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.

Key Characteristics of a Demographic Dividend:

• Large Working-Age Population: A significant portion of the population is between 15 and 64 years old.
• Low Dependency Ratio: A relatively small proportion of the population is dependent on others (children and the elderly).
• Economic Growth Potential: The abundant workforce can fuel economic growth and development.

Conclusion

The aging population in South India is a complex issue with significant implications for the region. Addressing this challenge will require a multifaceted approach that considers economic, social, and demographic factors.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION:

Which of the following statements regarding demographic shift and demographic dividend in India is/are correct?

1. Demographic Dividend refers to a period when a country experiences a significant increase in the working-age population compared to the non-working-age population.
2. A demographic shift occurs when there is a change in the age structure of a population, leading to a higher proportion of elderly individuals.
3. The demographic dividend can lead to economic growth only if adequate employment opportunities and education are available for the youth.

Which of the following statements is/are correct?

A.1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3

Answer:(C) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Demographic Dividend indeed refers to the potential economic growth that can occur when a country has a larger proportion of working-age individuals.

A demographic shift towards an older population indicates a decline in the demographic dividend, not a contributing factor to it.

For a demographic dividend to translate into economic growth, there must be sufficient opportunities for education and employment.