23-October-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

SUPREME COURT CASE REGARDING MADARSA EDUCATION AND SECULARISM

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Supreme Court of India is currently reviewing the constitutionality of the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004. This case has significant implications for how religious education, particularly in madarsas, aligns with the principles of secularism in India.

Background

• Madarsa Education Act, 2004: Establishes a framework for madarsa education in Uttar Pradesh, allowing both NCERT curriculum and religious education.
• Current Status: The Supreme Court has stayed the Allahabad High Court’s decision that struck down the Act, pending its review.

Key Aspects of the Madarsa Act

• Board Formation: Creates the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education, mostly comprised of Muslim community members.
• Educational Structure: Covers courses from ‘Maulvi’ (Class 10 equivalent) to ‘Fazil’ (Master’s equivalent) and involves preparing curricula and conducting exams.

Allahabad High Court Ruling

Struck Down the Act: On March 22, 2024, the High Court found the Act unconstitutional based on three main arguments:

• Violation of Secularism: The Act mandates religious education, which the court argued contradicts the secular nature of the state.
• Right to Education: The court asserted that the Act fails to provide quality education as required by Article 21A of the Constitution, which mandates free and compulsory education for children.
• Conflict with Central Law: The Act was found to be in conflict with the University Grants Commission Act, as only recognized universities can confer degrees.

Supreme Court Hearings

Central Questions:

• Nature of Education: Is Madarsa education classified as “religious education” or “religious instruction”? The Supreme Court has previously distinguished between the two, allowing for educational discussion about religions while prohibiting compulsory religious instruction.
• Scope of the High Court’s Ruling: Should the High Court have annulled the entire Act, or could it have limited its decision to specific provisions to allow for regulatory improvements?

Arguments Presented:

• Advocate Menaka Guruswamy: Argued that the High Court incorrectly conflated regulatory oversight with the prohibition of religious instruction.
• CJI D.Y. Chandrachud: Expressed concern that nullifying the entire Act would be excessive and that the state should have the ability to regulate madarsas to make their education more secular.

Implications of the Supreme Court’s Decision

• The verdict will have a profound impact, especially in Uttar Pradesh, affecting over 14,000 madarsas and around 1.69 lakh students.
• The outcome may set a precedent for how secularism is applied to various educational institutions that provide religious instruction, including gurukuls and convent schools.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s decision will clarify the balance between religious education and the secular framework of Indian law. It will also determine how madarsas and similar institutions can operate while aligning with constitutional mandates regarding education.

16TH CONFERENCE OF PARTIES TO THE CONVENTION ON BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY (COP16)

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: INDIAN EXPRESS

The 16th Conference of Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is taking place in Cali, Colombia. This conference aims to safeguard global biodiversity and restore natural ecosystems. It follows the previous COP15 held in Montreal in 2022, where significant agreements were made regarding biodiversity conservation.

Key Objectives of COP16

• Follow-Up on COP15: This conference is the first after the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which outlines four main goals and 23 targets to achieve by 2030.
• 30 x 30 Target: A key aim is to conserve at least 30% of the world’s land and ocean areas by 2030, with a focus on regions rich in biodiversity, and to initiate restoration in 30% of degraded ecosystems.

Importance of Biodiversity and Climate Links

• Interconnected Issues: The biodiversity crisis and climate change are linked through factors like resource extraction and unsustainable practices. Climate change exacerbates biodiversity loss, while ecosystem changes contribute to global warming.
• Growing Recognition: There is an increasing acknowledgment of the importance of addressing both issues together, leading to a convergence in discussions and goals.

Progress on 30 x 30 Targets

• National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs): Countries are required to develop and submit NBSAPs to address biodiversity loss, similar to the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for climate change.
• Current Status: As of now, only 32 out of 196 countries have submitted their NBSAPs, but more submissions are anticipated during COP16.

The High Seas Treaty

• Purpose: The High Seas Treaty aims to protect biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdictions, promoting the establishment of protected areas in ocean ecosystems.
• Equitable Resource Sharing: The treaty also emphasizes the fair distribution of benefits derived from genetic resources in the oceans, particularly for countries that contribute to their discovery.

Sharing Genetic Resources

• Negotiations at COP16: Discussions will focus on how to share benefits from genetic resources, especially in light of advances in biotechnology. The goal is to create fair mechanisms for profit-sharing, especially for indigenous communities who are traditional stewards of these resources.
• Historical Context: The Nagoya Protocol, established in 2010, set principles for access and benefit-sharing of biological resources, which continue to inform current negotiations.

Financial Considerations

• Funding Goals: One of the key objectives of the Kunming-Montreal Framework is to mobilize at least $200 billion annually for biodiversity conservation by 2030, with developed nations providing a minimum of $20 billion each year to support developing countries.
• Financial Mechanisms: COP16 will explore methods to mobilize financial resources and may discuss establishing a biodiversity fund and biodiversity credits similar to carbon credits.
• Phasing Out Harmful Subsidies: The conference will address the need to eliminate or repurpose financial incentives that harm biodiversity, such as those promoting deforestation or overfishing.

Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is an international treaty aimed at promoting sustainable development and ensuring the conservation of biological diversity worldwide. It was opened for signature at the 1992 Rio Earth Summit and came into force in 1993.

Objectives of the CBD

The CBD has three main objectives:

• Conservation of Biological Diversity: Protecting and preserving the variety of life on Earth, including ecosystems, species, and genetic diversity.
• Sustainable Use of Biological Resources: Ensuring that the use of biological resources is conducted in a way that does not lead to their long-term decline and supports ecosystem health.
• Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits: Promoting the fair sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources, particularly to support the rights of indigenous peoples and local communities.

Key Components

• Biodiversity: Refers to the variety of life on Earth, encompassing ecosystem diversity, species diversity, and genetic diversity.
• Ecosystem Services: Natural processes that provide essential benefits to humans, including clean air and water, pollination, and climate regulation.

Important Protocols

• Nagoya Protocol (2010): Focuses on access to genetic resources and the fair sharing of benefits derived from their use. It establishes guidelines for obtaining consent from resource providers and ensuring that benefits are shared fairly.
• Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (2000): Addresses the safe transfer, handling, and use of living modified organisms (LMOs) resulting from modern biotechnology, ensuring that biodiversity is not harmed.

Conference of Parties (COP)

• The CBD is governed through a series of Conferences of Parties (COP), which are held every two years. These meetings bring together member countries to negotiate and adopt decisions regarding the implementation of the convention.
• Key outcomes from COP meetings include the adoption of strategic plans, targets, and frameworks for biodiversity conservation.

Global Biodiversity Framework

• The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adopted at COP15 in 2022, outlines four main goals and 23 targets to be achieved by 2030. Notable targets include the 30 x 30 target, which aims to protect 30% of global land and ocean areas.

Challenges

• Threats to Biodiversity: Major threats include habitat loss, climate change, pollution, invasive species, and over-exploitation of resources.
• Funding: There is a need for significant financial resources to support biodiversity conservation efforts, particularly in developing countries.
• Implementation: Ensuring that countries effectively implement CBD provisions and targets is an ongoing challenge.

Conclusion

COP16 is a crucial step in global efforts to protect biodiversity and tackle climate change. With ambitious targets like the 30 x 30 goal and vital discussions on financing and resource sharing, the outcomes of this conference will play a significant role in shaping future biodiversity conservation strategies.

INDIA’S CLOUD CHAMBER INITIATIVE UNDER MISSION MAUSAM

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: INDIAN EXPRESS

India is launching Mission Mausam to enhance weather management, improve forecasting, and modify weather events such as rainfall, hail, and fog.

A critical component of this mission is the establishment of a convective cloud chamber at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) in Pune.

What is a Cloud Chamber?

• Definition: A cloud chamber is a controlled environment that resembles a cylindrical or tubular drum where water vapor and aerosols are injected.
• Function: Inside this chamber, conditions are manipulated to develop clouds, allowing scientists to study cloud formation and behavior.

Purpose of the Cloud Chamber

• Research Focus: The Pune facility will enable scientists to analyze the seed particles that contribute to cloud droplet and ice particle formation.
• Unique Design: India’s cloud chamber will feature convection properties, essential for studying monsoon clouds. Such advanced chambers are rare globally.

Importance of Convective Cloud Chambers

• Cloud Physics Study: The chamber will facilitate research on cloud dynamics, including:
  • Behavior under normal and extreme weather conditions.
  • Interactions between different cloud layers and moisture influences.
• Strategic Weather Management: Insights gained can be applied to develop strategies for weather modification, ultimately aiding in better rainfall management.

Scientific Applications

• Customizable Conditions: The chamber allows scientists to adjust temperature, humidity, and other atmospheric parameters to simulate Indian weather conditions effectively.
• Instrumentation Development: Over the next 18-24 months, researchers will focus on creating advanced instruments and probes for detailed monitoring within the chamber.

India’s Previous Cloud Seeding Experience

• CAIPEEX Program: The Cloud Aerosol Interaction and Precipitation Enhancement Experiment (CAIPEEX) was conducted in four phases over more than a decade, testing cloud seeding in various conditions.
• Results: The final phase showed that cloud seeding could increase rainfall by up to 46% in some areas, particularly in Maharashtra’s rain-shadow regions.

Limitations of Cloud Seeding

• Not a Comprehensive Solution: While cloud seeding has demonstrated potential benefits, it is not a complete solution for rainfall issues and should be part of a broader strategy for managing water resources.

Conclusion

The establishment of a convective cloud chamber is a significant step for India’s weather management capabilities under Mission Mausam. By enhancing research on cloud physics, India aims to improve weather forecasting and develop effective strategies for weather modification, ultimately benefiting agricultural and water resource management.

MALARIA

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

Recently, Egypt was officially recognized as ‘malaria-free’ by the World Health Organization (WHO).

About Malaria

• Definition: Malaria is an acute febrile illness caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted to humans via the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.
• Geographical Prevalence: It is primarily a life-threatening disease found in tropical regions.

Transmission

• Mode of Transmission: Malaria is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person; it is spread solely through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.
• Parasite Species: Five species of Plasmodium can infect humans, with Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax being the most dangerous.

Symptoms

• Onset: Symptoms typically begin 10–15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
• Common Symptoms: Fever, headache, and chills are common, though they may be mild and easily mistaken for other illnesses.
• Immunity: In endemic regions, individuals with partial immunity may contract the disease without displaying symptoms.

Prevention

• Vector Control: The primary strategy for preventing malaria and reducing its transmission is through vector control measures.

Treatment

• Curability: Malaria is both preventable and treatable.
• Importance of Early Action: Early diagnosis and treatment significantly decrease the severity of the disease, lower mortality rates, and help reduce transmission.

The 2024 edition of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) report on Climate Change and Nuclear Power has been released, emphasizing the necessity for substantial investment to expand nuclear power capabilities.

SECTION 6A OF THE CITIZENSHIP ACT

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

On October 18, the Supreme Court upheld Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, which pertains specifically to Assam. This provision stems from the Assam Accord, signed in 1985, aimed at addressing the issue of undocumented migrants from Bangladesh.

What is Section 6A?

Origin: Section 6A was introduced as part of the Assam Accord, a political agreement made on August 15, 1985, to address concerns over illegal immigration from Bangladesh.

Cut-off Date: It establishes March 25, 1971, as the critical date for determining citizenship. Anyone entering Assam after this date is considered a foreigner and subject to deportation.

Citizenship Grants:

• Migrants of Indian origin who arrived before January 1, 1966, are granted Indian citizenship.
• Those arriving between January 1, 1966, and March 24, 1971, gain full citizenship rights except for voting for a decade.

Why was Section 6A Challenged?

• Legal Concerns: Petitioners argued that the cut-off date for Assam is discriminatory and violates Article 14 (right to equality) of the Constitution.
• Comparison with National Provisions: They claimed inconsistency with Articles 6 and 7, which outline citizenship rules for Partition-era migrations.
• Demographic Impact: Concerns were raised about the alteration of Assam’s demographic structure, infringing on the rights of the indigenous population as protected under Article 29.

Court Findings

Majority Opinion

• Upheld Validity: The Supreme Court, in a 4:1 decision, upheld Section 6A, recognizing Assam’s unique historical and political context.
• Article 14: The majority concluded that Section 6A does not violate the right to equality, as it balances humanitarian concerns with the needs of Assam.
• Constitutional Flexibility: Justices noted that Parliament has the authority to define citizenship laws, which may differ from standard provisions outlined in Articles 6 and 7.

Dissenting Opinion

• Justice Pardiwala’s Dissent: He declared Section 6A unconstitutional from the date of the judgment, criticizing it for failing to control illegal immigration and for lacking a sunset clause, which could exacerbate demographic issues.
• Process Critique: He highlighted that the provision does not permit self-declaration as a foreigner, relying solely on state intervention for identification.

Potential Implications

• National Register of Citizens (NRC): The March 25, 1971, cut-off date is also the basis for the NRC, which identified 19 lakh individuals as potential non-citizens in Assam.
• Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA): The ruling may influence discussions around the CAA, which allows non-Muslim migrants from neighboring countries to gain citizenship. Critics argue that the CAA creates inconsistencies by allowing some groups to bypass Section 6A.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s ruling on Section 6A has significant implications for citizenship laws in India, particularly in Assam. It addresses historical grievances related to migration while raising questions about equality and the treatment of different groups under the law.

WHY ARE BIG TECH COMPANIES EXPLORING NUCLEAR POWER

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

Recently, major tech firms like Google have shown interest in nuclear energy as a solution to their growing energy demands. This shift is driven by the need for sustainable and reliable energy sources to power data centers and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

Google’s Nuclear Energy Agreement

• Announcement: On October 14, 2023, Google revealed its first corporate agreement to purchase nuclear energy from Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) developed by Kairos Power.
• Energy Contribution: This initiative aims to supply 500 MW of carbon-free power to the U.S. electricity grid, with the first reactor expected to be operational by 2030.
• Benefits: Google views nuclear energy as a clean and consistent power source, crucial for supporting the energy-intensive tasks associated with AI and data center operations.

The Need for Nuclear Energy

• High Energy Consumption: Training AI models and maintaining data centers require substantial energy. Google’s recent Environmental Report indicated a 13% increase in global greenhouse gas emissions in 2023, highlighting the challenge of managing energy consumption while expanding infrastructure.
• Advantages of Nuclear Power: Nuclear energy is seen as a clean and round-the-clock energy source, unlike solar power, which is dependent on weather conditions. SMRs offer a quicker deployment timeline due to their smaller, modular designs.

Partnerships with Nuclear Energy Providers

• Microsoft’s Initiatives: Microsoft has entered a 20-year power purchase agreement with Constellation to restart the Crane Clean Energy Center and add around 835 MW of carbon-free energy to the grid. This aligns with Microsoft’s goal to become carbon negative.
• Amazon’s Investments: Amazon has signed agreements to support nuclear projects, including partnerships with Energy Northwest and Dominion Energy. They also plan to power data centers with energy from nuclear facilities, ensuring a carbon-free energy supply.
• Support from OpenAI: Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has invested in nuclear startups like Oklo, aiming to develop microreactors for commercial use.

Debating the Cleanliness of Nuclear Energy

• Public Perception: Nuclear energy has a controversial reputation due to historical accidents like Chernobyl (1986) and Fukushima (2011). These incidents have led to long-lasting environmental damage and ongoing health concerns.
• U.S. Nuclear Accidents: The Three Mile Island incident in 1979 exemplifies how human error can lead to nuclear crises, raising public fears about safety. Microsoft’s deal aims to reactivate the plant’s Unit 1, while Unit 2 was decommissioned following the accident.

Environmental Concerns

• Opposition to Nuclear Energy: Environmental groups argue that nuclear power is not truly clean, citing issues like accidents, radioactive waste, and high costs. Organizations like Friends of the Earth claim that nuclear power has a history of danger and inefficiency.
• Potential of SMRs: Small Modular Reactors are considered promising due to their lower construction costs and ability to operate in locations unsuitable for traditional nuclear plants.

U.S. Government Support for Nuclear Energy

• Clean Energy Source: The U.S. Department of Energy recognizes nuclear power as a significant clean energy source and emphasizes the need to maintain U.S. leadership in nuclear technology.
• Environmental Impact: Existing U.S. nuclear plants prevent approximately 500 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, comparable to removing 100 million cars from the roads.

Conclusion

Big Tech’s foray into nuclear energy highlights a strategic shift towards sustainable and reliable energy sources to meet their growing demands. While nuclear power offers potential benefits, public concerns about safety and environmental impact continue to fuel debates around its role in the energy landscape.

AGREEMENT BETWEEN INDIA AND CHINA

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

The recent confirmation of an agreement between India and China to resolve their military standoff marks a significant development in bilateral relations. This follows four years of tension that began with China’s transgressions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in April 2020.

Context of the Standoff

• Background: The tensions escalated after the Galwan clashes in June 2020, resulting in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers. This incident heightened mistrust and led to increased military deployments by both nations.
• Disengagement Efforts: Despite attempts to reduce hostilities and disengage from five points of conflict, skepticism persisted regarding China’s intentions to return to the pre-2020 positions.

Positive Developments

• Troop Withdrawal: Indian External Affairs Minister announced that China has agreed to restore troops to pre-2020 levels. Verification of this claim is crucial, but if accurate, it represents a positive step.
• Bilateral Meetings: The agreement was announced just before the BRICS Summit, which Indian Prime Minister and Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend. This may facilitate formal discussions for the first time since 2020.

• Economic Ties: While trade relations between India and China remain strong, other aspects such as investment, travel, and visa processes have been adversely affected. Recovery in these areas will depend on how the new agreements are implemented.

Building Trust

• Transparency: It is essential for the Indian government to carry out the “next steps” in a transparent manner to build trust. There is a prevailing perception that Chinese troops have expanded their presence in Indian territory.
• Access and Communication: The government’s reluctance to provide complete briefings to Parliament or media has raised concerns about the situation along the border. Clear evidence of troop withdrawals is necessary to alleviate these doubts.

Lessons from the Past

• Cautious Approach: It is vital to avoid premature declarations of success, recalling the aftermath of the 2017 Doklam disengagement, which was followed by increased Chinese military activity in the region.
• Future Framework: The two nations must evaluate whether existing agreements, like the 1993 Border Peace and Tranquility Agreement and the 2013 Border Defence Cooperation Agreement, are sufficient or if a new framework is needed to manage their border disputes effectively.

Background of India-China Border Disputes

Historical Context

McMahon Line Proposal (1913-14):

• Established at the Shimla Conference to define boundaries between British India and Tibet.
• The proposed McMahon Line was 890 km long, from Bhutan to Burma, but China did not accept it.

Annexation of Tibet (1950):

• China’s takeover of Tibet led to one of the world’s longest undemarcated borders with India.

Introduction of Line of Actual Control (LAC) (1959):

• China proposed the LAC as the boundary, which India rejected.
• The LAC is divided into three sectors:
• Eastern: Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim
• Middle: Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh
• Western: Ladakh

Sino-Indian War (1962):

• War erupted in 1962; China declared a ceasefire on November 21, seizing territory in Aksai Chin.

Aftermath and LAC Establishment:

• The LAC became an informal ceasefire line, but both countries interpret it differently.
• India considers the McMahon Line its boundary, while China claims Aksai Chin and refers to Arunachal Pradesh as “South Tibet.”

Ongoing Challenges

• Five Finger Policy: China views Tibet as the palm and considers Ladakh, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan, and Arunachal Pradesh as its five fingers. Both nations maintain significant troop presence along the LAC, estimated at 50,000-60,000 soldiers each.
• Salami Slicing Strategy: China employs small, incremental territorial gains that are geopolitically unlawful. Infrastructure development, such as roads and villages near the border, supports dual civil and military purposes.
• Belt and Road Initiative (BRI): India opposes the BRI, particularly the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, as it violates its sovereignty.
• Debt Trap Diplomacy: China’s loans to countries like Sri Lanka and Maldives hinder India’s influence in its neighborhood.
• Trade Deficit: India faced a trade deficit of USD 83.2 billion with China in 2022-23, with significant dependency on Chinese pharmaceutical materials.

Indian Efforts to Counter Chinese Influence

• QUAD: A strategic alliance with the U.S., Japan, and Australia aimed at maintaining free Indo-Pacific sea routes.
• I2U2: A forum of India, Israel, UAE, and the U.S. focused on economic partnerships.
• INSTC: A transport corridor linking the Indian Ocean to northern Europe via Iran.
• IMEC: Aimed at enhancing connectivity from India to Europe.
• Necklace of Diamonds Strategy: India is developing naval bases and fostering relations with strategically located countries to counter China.
• Indian Ocean Rim Association: Promotes economic and technical cooperation among Indian Ocean nations.

Way Forward for India-China Relations

• Border Dispute Resolution: Establish extra buffer zones in contested areas and engage in regular high-level dialogues.
• Economic Cooperation: Address trade imbalances and consider a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China.
• Crisis Management Mechanism: Enhance military deterrence and respond to Chinese threats effectively.
• Cultural Diplomacy: Foster people-to-people exchanges and cultural initiatives to strengthen ties.
• Track Diplomacy: Encourage non-governmental dialogue for building trust between societies.
• Vibrant Villages Programme: Enhance connectivity in border districts for better integration.

Conclusion

The agreement to resolve the military standoff presents an opportunity for India and China to stabilize their relationship. However, careful and transparent actions are required to ensure lasting peace and cooperation.