Best UPSC Academy in Hyderabad

Loading Events

« All Events

  • This event has passed.

24-January-2025-Daily-Current-Affairs

January 24 @ 7:00 am - 11:30 pm

ENSURING ELECTORAL ROLL INTEGRITY FOR FAIR ELECTIONS

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

The integrity of electoral rolls is crucial for ensuring that elections are free, fair, and transparent. Accurate voter lists prevent electoral fraud and uphold the democratic process.

Historical Context and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Warning

  • Dr. Ambedkar’s Concerns: During the 1949 Constituent Assembly debates, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar warned about the dangers of manipulating electoral rolls.
  • Executive Interference: He emphasized that political interference in the electoral process could undermine democracy and weaken the independence of the Election Commission of India (ECI).

Significance of Electoral Roll Integrity

  • Foundation of Democracy: Electoral rolls ensure that only eligible voters participate in elections, ensuring inclusivity and fairness.
  • Prevention of Fraud: Accurate voter lists protect against fraudulent practices like “ghost voters” or incorrect exclusions.
  • Public Trust: For elections to be credible, the electoral rolls must be trustworthy and transparent.

Challenges to Electoral Roll Integrity

  • Ghost and Duplicate Voters: Fake or duplicate entries reduce the fairness of elections and misrepresent the will of the people.
  • Exclusion of Eligible Voters: Discrimination based on identity, language, or ethnicity can result in the unfair exclusion of deserving voters.
  • Political Manipulation: Electoral rolls may be manipulated by political parties to favor certain outcomes, distorting the fairness of elections.
  • Outdated Verification: Reliance on manual systems and outdated methods for verifying voter identities often leads to errors in voter rolls.

Case Study: Maharashtra 2024 Elections

  • Excessive Voter Registration: In the 2024 Maharashtra elections, the state saw a dramatic increase of 48 lakh new voters within six months.
  • Questionable Patterns: The voter roll showed more registered voters than the estimated adult population, raising doubts about accuracy and potential manipulation by political factions.

Solutions to Ensure Electoral Roll Integrity

  • Aadhaar-Based Verification: Linking voter IDs with Aadhaar could help eliminate ghost voters and correct duplicate entries by using biometric data.
  • Periodic Audits: Regular and transparent audits conducted by independent agencies would ensure accountability and help identify inaccuracies.
  • Technological Advancements: Implementing technologies like blockchain and AI could enhance data accuracy and reduce the chances of manipulation.
  • Voter Awareness Campaigns: Educating voters on the registration process and encouraging them to report discrepancies can help maintain the integrity of voter lists.

Conclusion

Maintaining the accuracy of electoral rolls is essential for the strength of India’s democracy. Embracing modern technology, conducting regular audits, and promoting voter education are essential steps in ensuring transparent and fair elections.

Practice Question:

  1. Consider the following statements regarding the Election Commission of India (ECI):
  1. The Election Commission of India is a multi-member body consisting of a Chief Election Commissioner and two Election Commissioners.
  2. The Election Commission is directly responsible for the conduct of elections to the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and State Legislative Assemblies.
  3. The Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners have security of tenure and can only be removed by impeachment by the Parliament.
  4. The Election Commission is empowered to conduct elections to Panchayats and Municipalities under the Constitution of India.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

  • The Election Commission of India consists of the Chief Election Commissioner and two Election Commissioners, though it can also have more members as deemed necessary by the President.
  • The ECI conducts elections for the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and State Legislative Assemblies.
  • The Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners enjoy security of tenure and can only be removed by impeachment by Parliament, similar to judges of the Supreme Court.
  • The Election Commission of India is not responsible for conducting elections to Panchayats and Municipalities; these are conducted by State Election Commissions.

POVERTY ESTIMATION AND ITS CHALLENGES IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

Poverty estimation in India has faced challenges due to changing methodologies and evolving definitions. Issues related to data accuracy and poverty line revisions have led to debates about the true extent of poverty.

Traditional Definition and Methodology

  • Calorie-Based Definition: Initially, poverty was measured based on the expenditure required to meet a minimum calorie intake.
  • NSSO Data: From the late 1970s to 2005, poverty was primarily assessed using the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) data, considered stable at the time.
  • Data Discrepancies: Over time, differences in consumption estimates between NSSO and National Accounts raised concerns about data accuracy.

Changes in Poverty Estimation Methods

  • Tendulkar Committee: The Tendulkar Committee introduced new methodologies to improve data collection, although discrepancies remained.
  • Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI): In addition to income-based measures, the MPI uses multiple indicators to assess poverty, but results still depend on the chosen poverty line and data sources.

Decline in Poverty

  • Significant Reduction: Over the past two decades, poverty has substantially declined, driven by high GDP growth, government initiatives, and improvements in public delivery systems.
  • Policy Interventions: Programs like the National Food Security Act, which covers nearly 80 crore people, have played a crucial role in alleviating extreme poverty.
  • Consistency Across Poverty Lines: Different poverty lines, such as those set by the Tendulkar and Rangarajan Committees, show similar trends of poverty reduction around 17-18%.

Concerns with Household Consumption Expenditure (HCES) Data

  • Inconsistency in Data: Variations in recall periods used in consumption surveys complicate comparisons over time.
  • Need for New Poverty Line: Experts argue for the creation of a new poverty line based on updated NSSO methodologies to ensure accurate poverty measurements.

Rural vs. Urban Poverty

  • Narrowing Gap: The gap between rural and urban poverty is narrowing, with rural areas showing significant improvements.
  • Changing Rural Economies: Rural consumption patterns have diversified, with food expenditure now making up less than half of total consumption.
  • Policy Impact: Public policies and the changing rural economy contribute to the reduction in rural poverty.

Revision of Poverty Line

  • Debate on Accuracy: There is disagreement on the accuracy of poverty line estimates, with some suggesting that the poverty rate may be higher than officially stated.
  • Need for Standardized Methodology: A unified and consistent approach to revising the poverty line is crucial for more accurate poverty estimation.

Criticism of Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI)

  • India’s MPI: India’s MPI, based on 12 indicators, has faced criticism for not aligning with the UNDP’s 10-indicator index.
  • Artificially Low Estimates: Experts argue that once households gain access to basic services, such as electricity or a bank account, they cannot lose these benefits, potentially leading to underestimation of poverty.
  • Need for Income Vulnerability Measures: More accurate poverty assessments should also include income vulnerability factors.

Conclusion

While India has made considerable progress in poverty reduction, a standardized and consistent methodology for poverty estimation is essential for accurate assessments and comparisons.

Practice question:

  1. Consider the following statements regarding the Tendulkar Committee on Poverty:
  1. The Tendulkar Committee, formed in 2009, recommended the use of the calorie-based poverty line to estimate poverty in India.
  2. The committee proposed a new poverty line based on both consumption expenditure and a composite index of deprivations.
  3. The Tendulkar Committee’s poverty line is considered the official poverty line for the Government of India.
  4. The committee’s recommendations focus solely on income-based poverty measurement and exclude other indicators such as education and health.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

  • The Tendulkar Committee recommended the use of a calorie-based poverty line to estimate poverty in India.
  • The Tendulkar Committee did not recommend a composite index of deprivations. It focused on a consumption expenditure-based poverty line.
  • The Tendulkar Committee’s poverty line was adopted by the Government of India as the official measure for poverty.
  • The Tendulkar Committee’s recommendations focused on consumption expenditure and did not address multidimensional aspects of poverty such as education or health directly.

TRUMP’S TARIFF STRATEGY: IMPLICATIONS FOR GLOBAL TRADE AND INDIA’S POSITION

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU\

The global trade landscape is under scrutiny as U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff strategy impacts countries like China, Mexico, and Canada. This policy aims to adjust trade imbalances but has significant implications for the global economy, particularly for emerging markets like India.

Understanding Tariffs and Their Impacts

What are Tariffs?

  • A tariff is a tax that governments impose on imported goods.
  • Example: If Chinese-made cars cost $100 and U.S.-made cars cost $120, a tariff on Chinese imports would make them more expensive and encourage consumers to buy domestic cars.

Effects of Tariffs

  • Benefit to Domestic Manufacturers: With higher costs for foreign goods, local producers may see increased sales and job creation.
  • Reduced Trade Deficits: Less demand for imports can help reduce trade imbalances.
  • Negative Impact on Consumers: Higher prices for imported goods lead to inflation and reduced purchasing power.

Reasons for Imposing Tariffs

  • Protecting Domestic Industry: Tariffs make foreign goods costlier, encouraging consumers to buy locally-produced goods.
  • Increasing Government Revenue: Moderate tariffs can serve as a source of income for the government while maintaining imports.
  • Promoting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): High tariffs can encourage foreign companies to establish local production units, creating jobs and boosting the economy.

Retaliation to Tariffs

  • Absorption: Affected exporters may lower prices to maintain market share, absorbing the cost of tariffs.
  • Passing Costs to Consumers: Exporters may increase their prices, shifting the tariff burden to local consumers.
  • Rerouting Trade: To avoid tariffs, goods may be redirected through countries with trade agreements.
  • Trade Wars: Countries may retaliate with counter-tariffs or currency devaluation.

Consequences of Tariffs

  • Higher Consumer Prices: The increased cost of imports is passed onto consumers, leading to inflation.
  • Market Distortion: Reduced foreign competition allows domestic producers to increase prices without improving quality.
  • Inflationary Pressure: Rising import prices contribute to overall inflation.
  • Trade Deficit Issues: While tariffs reduce imports from one country, they may lead to higher imports from others, leaving trade deficits unchanged.

Evaluating Trump’s Previous Tariff Policies

  • Impact on US-China Trade: U.S. imports from China declined by $81.56 billion between 2017 and 2023, reducing the trade deficit with China.
  • However, the overall U.S. trade deficit widened, with imports shifting to countries like Mexico and Canada.
  • Impact on Global Supply Chains: Despite tariff pressures, China’s global exports rose by $1.1 trillion, reinforcing its role in global supply chains for electronics, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy.
  • Key Beneficiaries: Mexico, Canada, and ASEAN countries benefitted significantly from U.S. trade shifts, comprising 57% of the growth in U.S. imports.

India’s Position in a Potential Trade War

  • India could benefit if it improves its manufacturing capabilities and offers value-added goods, taking advantage of shifting trade patterns.
  • However, without competitiveness, India risks becoming a mere transit hub for Chinese goods entering the U.S., missing out on the real trade opportunities.

Conclusion

Trump’s tariff strategy aims to protect U.S. industries and reduce trade deficits but has broader effects like inflation and market distortions. For India to benefit, it needs to enhance its domestic manufacturing and global competitiveness to avoid becoming just a conduit for redirected goods. Strengthening India’s position in global trade will be crucial for long-term growth.

INDIA’S STRUGGLE TO ACHIEVE ‘END TB’ TARGETS BY 2025

TOPIC: (GS3) HEALTH: THE HINDU

India has committed to eliminating tuberculosis (TB) by 2025, ahead of the global 2030 target, but challenges such as high TB burden, drug-resistant cases, and healthcare system gaps have made progress difficult.

Global and National TB Challenge

  • Global Impact: Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be the leading infectious disease cause of death worldwide.
  • End TB Targets: The World Health Organization (WHO) aims for:
    • 90% reduction in TB deaths.
    • 80% reduction in new cases.
    • Zero catastrophic costs for TB-affected families by 2030.
  • India’s Commitment: India pledged to achieve these targets by 2025. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has set back progress.
  • India’s TB Burden: India contributes to 26% of global TB cases, making it a major hub for both drug-resistant TB and TB-related fatalities.

High-Risk Groups for TB

  • Vulnerable Populations: Groups such as those with:
    • Silicosis (lung disease), undernutrition, and overcrowded living conditions.
    • Comorbidities like diabetes are more prone to TB.
  • Migrant Workers: Migrants often struggle with access to healthcare and continuity of TB treatment due to relocation.
  • Undernutrition: Addressing undernutrition is essential for TB control, but other factors need targeted, multisectoral interventions.

Challenges in TB Treatment

  • National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP): Provides free drugs and achieves treatment initiation in over 95% of reported TB cases.
  • 2023 Drug Shortage: A disruption in the drug supply chain in 2023 led to treatment delays, increasing the risk of drug resistance and catastrophic health costs.

Extrapulmonary TB (EP-TB)

  • EP-TB: Affects organs beyond the lungs (e.g., kidneys, lymph nodes, bones, brain) and constitutes 24% of cases.
  • Diagnosis Challenges: EP-TB is difficult to diagnose due to its nonspecific symptoms. It is often mistaken for other diseases.
  • Improvement Needed: Better training for general practitioners and better diagnostic tools like CBNAAT and Truenat is needed to detect EP-TB early.

Healthcare Gaps and Diagnosis Issues

  • Low Diagnostic Accuracy: Studies show that only 35% of private doctors and 75% of government doctors can accurately diagnose TB symptoms.
  • Lack of Resources: There are shortages of trained personnel and testing equipment, such as molecular tests, which delay diagnosis and treatment.

Successful Interventions

  • Community Participation: In Kerala’s Idukki district, collaboration with Kadambas’re (a women’s self-help group) has shown positive results in TB elimination.
  • Political and Community Advocacy: Support from political leaders and learning from successful regional practices could further help in achieving TB targets.

Progress and Future Steps

  • Reduction in TB Deaths: India has successfully reduced TB deaths by 24% since 2015, surpassing the global average decline rate.
  • Global Lessons: Countries like Vietnam, which actively seek out TB cases among high-risk populations, offer valuable lessons.
  • Adaptation Needed: India must adjust its strategies to address regional issues and expedite TB elimination.

Conclusion

While achieving the 2025 End TB targets is challenging due to systemic issues, there has been notable progress in case reporting and death reduction. Strengthening healthcare systems and fostering community-driven efforts are key to reaching these goals.

Practice Question:

  1. Which of the following government initiatives are part of India’s strategy to combat the tuberculosis (TB) burden?
  1. National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP)
  2. Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP)
  3. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
  4. Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY)

Select the correct answer using the code below:

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

Answer: D

Explanation:

  • National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP): This is the primary government initiative aimed at eliminating TB by 2025.
  • Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP): This was the earlier version of NTEP and was a significant part of India’s efforts to control TB.
  • Swachh Bharat Abhiyan: Improving sanitation and hygiene under this program indirectly contributes to reducing the spread of TB.
  • Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY): This scheme provides health coverage to economically disadvantaged people, helping them access TB treatment and care.

INDIA’S DEEP OCEAN MISSION: A LEAP IN MARINE EXPLORATION

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: PIB

India is set to launch its first human underwater submersible in 2025, marking a significant milestone in the country’s scientific and technological advancements. The mission aims to explore the deep ocean and boost India’s blue economy.

India’s First Human Underwater Submersible

Submersible’s Capabilities:

  • The submersible will initially operate at a depth of 500 meters, with plans to extend its reach to 6,000 meters in the future.
  • This development will position India among six global leaders with the capability to undertake deep-sea missions.
  • Significance of the Submersible: The launch will be a significant step in deep-sea exploration, supporting India’s growing presence in advanced marine technology.

Advancing the Blue Economy

  • Exploring Ocean Resources: The mission aims to explore underwater resources, such as minerals, rare metals, and marine biodiversity, which are crucial for sustainable economic development.
  • By tapping into these resources, India hopes to strengthen its blue economy—an area focused on utilizing ocean resources for growth and environmental sustainability.
  • Focus on Indigenous Technology: The entire project is based on homegrown technology, highlighting India’s self-reliance in scientific innovation.

Scientific Achievements and Synergies

  • Parallel with Other Missions: The Deep Ocean Mission complements India’s space missions, such as Gaganyaan, reflecting India’s progress in both marine and space exploration.
  • Conservation and Sustainability: The mission will also contribute to understanding deep-sea ecosystems, supporting sustainable fisheries and biodiversity conservation efforts.

Challenges and Future Prospects

  • Impact of the Pandemic: Although the project faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has gained momentum and is making notable progress.
  • Long-Term Benefits: The successful completion of the mission will offer long-term benefits to India’s economy, scientific community, and environmental protection efforts.

Conclusion

The Deep Ocean Mission’s focus on marine exploration and resource utilization promises to advance India’s blue economy and contribute to global scientific exploration, benefiting both the economy and environmental sustainability.

TUNGSTEN MINING IN MADURAI

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

The Union Ministry of Mines has decided to cancel the auction of the Nayakkarpatti tungsten mineral block in Madurai due to local opposition and concerns over environmental preservation. This decision has brought attention to the balance between mining and conservation efforts.

Key Details of the Decision

  • The Union Ministry annulled the auction of the Nayakkarpatti tungsten block in Madurai after considering the protests from local communities and environmental concerns.
  • Local opposition played a significant role in the decision, highlighting the concerns of residents who feared the adverse effects of mining on their environment and livelihood.

Environmental Concerns and Arittapatti Heritage Site

Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site:

  • The area surrounding the tungsten block is close to the Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site, Tamil Nadu’s first such site. This site is known for its rich biodiversity, including species like the Laggar Falcon and Shaheen Falcon.
  • It also holds historical importance with megalithic structures and rock-cut temples, making it an important cultural and ecological zone.

Impact on Conservation:

  • The potential mining activities raised fears of harming the delicate ecosystems in the Arittapatti area, particularly its wildlife and historical heritage, leading to calls for preserving the site from industrial activities.

Impact on Local Communities and Economy

  • Local Protests: Local residents and environmental activists expressed concerns that mining activities could damage the local environment, leading to economic and ecological losses.
  • Long-Term Consequences: The decision reflects a growing awareness of the need to balance industrial development with environmental and cultural preservation, ensuring that both local communities and natural heritage are protected.

WHAT IS A BIODIVERSITY HERITAGE SITE (BHS)?

Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS) are special areas with unique and ecologically sensitive ecosystems. These sites are rich in wild and domesticated species, including rare, threatened, and keystone species.

  • Ecological Importance: They represent regions with high biological diversity and are crucial for conservation efforts.

Legal Provision:

  • Biological Diversity Act, 2002: Under Section 37(1) of this Act, the State Government, in consultation with local bodies, can officially designate areas of biodiversity importance as BHS.
  • Notification: These sites are officially notified through the Government Gazette.

Restrictions:

  • Community Practices: Creating a BHS does not restrict the traditional practices of local communities unless voluntarily decided by them.
  • Goal: The purpose is to improve the quality of life for local communities while promoting conservation efforts.

Key Facts:

  • First BHS in India: The Nallur Tamarind Grove in Bengaluru, Karnataka, was India’s first Biodiversity Heritage Site, declared in 2007.
  • Recent Additions to BHS:
    • Debbari or Chabimura (Tripura) – September 2022
    • Betlingshib & its surroundings (Tripura) – September 2022
    • Hajong Tortoise Lake (Assam) – August 2022
    • Borjuli Wild Rice Site (Assam) – August 2022
    • Amarkantak (Madhya Pradesh) – July 2022

Conclusion

The annulment of the tungsten mining auction in Madurai underscores the importance of protecting biodiversity and cultural heritage in the face of industrial activities, aligning with India’s sustainable development goals.

INDIA’S DIGITAL ECONOMY GROWTH

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

India’s digital economy is expected to experience rapid growth, significantly outpacing the overall economy. A report by ICRIER highlights that by 2030, it could contribute nearly 20% to India’s GDP.

Key Findings from the ICRIER Report:

  • Growth Rate: India’s digital economy is forecasted to grow at twice the rate of the overall economy.
  • Digital Economy’s Share in GDP: By 2024–25, the digital economy is projected to account for 13.42% of India’s national income, up from 11.74% in 2022–23.
  • Contribution by 2030: The digital economy’s share in GDP will rise to almost 20% by 2030.
  • Valuation of Digital Economy (2022–23): In 2022–23, India’s digital economy was valued at ₹28.94 lakh crore in Gross Value Added (GVA) terms and ₹31.64 lakh crore in GDP terms.

ICRIER’s Study Methodology:

  • Collaboration: The report was created by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER), in partnership with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
  • The digital economy was defined by ICRIER as a combination of sectors from the OECD and ADB, including digitally-enabled industries like Banking, Financial Services, Insurance (BFSI), and education.

Implications for India’s Economy:

  • Economic Impact: The rapid growth of the digital economy will play a crucial role in India’s economic expansion.
  • Technological Development: India’s increasing reliance on digital services will lead to more innovation and modernization across sectors, contributing to long-term economic sustainability.

Conclusion:

This report emphasizes India’s potential to lead the digital economy in the coming years and its vital role in shaping the nation’s future economic landscape.

AD HOC JUDGES IN HIGH COURTS

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

To address the growing backlog of cases in High Courts, the Supreme Court has proposed the temporary appointment of retired judges as ad hoc judges. This measure aims to utilize their experience while dealing with judicial vacancies.

Constitutional Provision:

  • Article 224A of the Indian Constitution: Allows the Chief Justice of a High Court to appoint retired judges as ad hoc judges, provided the President’s consent is obtained.
  • Powers and Privileges: Ad hoc judges have the same authority as regular High Court judges but are not considered permanent judges.
  • Purpose: This provision helps in addressing judicial backlogs, which have been a long-standing issue in India’s judicial system.

Appointment Procedure:

  • The 1998 Memorandum of Procedure (MOP) outlines the steps for appointing ad hoc judges:
  • Consent: The retired judge must agree to serve as an ad hoc judge.
  • Recommendation: The Chief Justice of the High Court recommends the retired judge’s name to the Chief Minister, who forwards it to the Union Law Minister.
  • Consultation: The Law Minister consults the Chief Justice of India (CJI) and sends the recommendation to the Prime Minister, who advises the President.
  • Since 2021, the Supreme Court Collegium (CJI and two senior-most judges) must also approve the recommendation.

Criteria for Appointment:

  • The Supreme Court in 2021 specified the following conditions for invoking Article 224A:
  • High Vacancy Rate: More than 20% vacancies in the High Court.
  • Old Pending Cases: More than 10% of pending cases should be older than five years.
  • Ongoing Judge Appointments: Regular judges must be appointed, and ad hoc judges should serve temporarily.
  • Panel of Judges: A panel of retired or soon-to-retire judges should be maintained for swift appointments.

Rationale for Ad Hoc Appointments:

  • The backlog of cases and the 40% vacancy rate in the judiciary prompted the Supreme Court to propose ad hoc judges as a temporary solution.
  • Historical Precedents: Law Commission reports (1979, 1988, 2003) recommended ad hoc appointments to reduce case pendency.

Historical Use of Article 224A:

  • The provision has been used rarely, with only three instances of ad hoc judge appointments:
  • Justice Suraj Bhan (Madhya Pradesh High Court, 1972)
  • Justice P. Venugopal (Madras High Court, 1982)
  • Justice O.P. Srivastava (Allahabad High Court, 2007)

Details

Date:
January 24
Time:
7:00 am - 11:30 pm
Event Category:
error: Content is protected !!