24-June-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

WHAT ARE THE DUTIES OF A SPEAKER? 

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS 

The Speaker of the Lok Sabha plays a crucial role in the functioning of the Indian Parliament. The Speaker pro tem is a temporary appointment to ensure the smooth transition of power until the full-time Speaker is elected. 

Speaker pro tem 

• Purpose: To ensure the Speaker’s office is never vacant during the transition between Lok Sabhas. 
• Appointment: Appointed by the President when both Speaker and Deputy Speaker posts are vacant. 
• Role: Administers the oath to new MPs and oversees the election of the full-time Speaker. 

Constitutional Provisions 

• Article 94: Ensures the Speaker remains in office until just before the first meeting of the new Lok Sabha. 
• Article 95(1): Allows the President to appoint a Lok Sabha member as Speaker pro tem when necessary. 
• Article 93: Mandates the election of both Speaker and Deputy Speaker by the Lok Sabha members. 

Election of Speaker and Deputy Speaker 

• Speaker: Elected on a date fixed by the President, traditionally unopposed. 
• Deputy Speaker: Elected on a date fixed by the Speaker. Historically, this post is often offered to the opposition party. 

Roles and Powers of the Speaker 

• Conduct of Business: Presides over Lok Sabha sessions and ensures orderly conduct. 
• Certifying Money Bills: Decides if a Bill is a Money Bill, limiting Rajya Sabha’s role. 
• Disqualification Decisions: Rules on disqualification of MPs under the Tenth Schedule (anti-defection law). 
• Referral to Committees: Refers Bills to Standing Committees, though this practice has declined recently. 

• Suspension of MPs: Can suspend MPs for disorderly conduct for up to five days. 
• Preserving Impartiality 
• British Convention: Speakers resign from their political party and seek re-election as independent candidates. 
• Indian Context: No Speaker has resigned from their party upon election. Somnath Chatterjee acted independently by not resigning when directed by his party. 

Deputy Speaker 

• Role: Assumes duties in the Speaker’s absence or during a vacancy. 
• Constitutional Importance: Ensures continuity and balance in the functioning of the Lok Sabha. 
• Historical Convention: Traditionally, the Deputy Speaker post is offered to the opposition, a practice that began in 1991. 

Conclusion 

The roles of the Speaker and Speaker pro tem are vital for the effective functioning of the Lok Sabha. Upholding traditions and impartiality is essential for maintaining the integrity of the parliamentary system. 

Multiple Choice Question: 

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Speaker of the Lok Sabha:

1. The Speaker is elected by members of the Lok Sabha. 

1. The Speaker certifies whether a Bill is a Money Bill or not. 

1. The Speaker remains in office until the President dissolves the Lok Sabha. 

1. The Speaker can resign from the political party to which he/she belonged after being elected as Speaker. 

Which of the statements given above are correct? 

1. 1 and 2 only 

1. 1, 2, and 3 only 

1. 1, 2, and 4 only 

1. 1, 2, 3, and 4 

ANSWER – A 

EXPLANATION: 

The Speaker is elected by the members of the Lok Sabha. 

The Speaker certifies whether a Bill is a Money Bill. 

The Speaker does not remain in office until the President dissolves the Lok Sabha; the Speaker remains in office until just before the first meeting of the new Lok Sabha. 

The Tenth Schedule allows a speaker to resign from their political party on being elected, but this has never been done in practice. 

HOW IS METHANOL PROCURED AND USED AS LIQUOR? 

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE INDIAN EXPRESS 

Methanol and ethanol are both alcohols, but their uses and effects differ drastically. Ethanol is used in beverages, while methanol is a toxic industrial chemical. Illicit liquor tragedies in India, such as the Kallakurichi incident, often involve methanol poisoning, leading to numerous fatalities. 

Definitions 

• Methanol: A type of alcohol produced from coal and other fossil fuels, used industrially but highly toxic if ingested. 
• Ethanol: An alcohol produced biologically from sugar fermentation, safe for human consumption in regulated quantities. 

Production and Uses 

Ethanol 

• Source: Produced biologically from molasses, a by-product of sugar manufacturing. 
• Process: Distilleries convert molasses into rectified spirit, which is further distilled into extra neutral alcohol (ENA). 

Usage: ENA is used to produce Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL). 

Methanol 

• Source: Produced from coal and other fossil fuels. 

• Uses: Essential in manufacturing products like paints. Toxic and not meant for human consumption. 

Methanol Procurement and Control 

• Regulation: Both ethanol and methanol are highly controlled substances. 
• Licensing: Manufacturing, transportation, and storage are strictly monitored. 
• Pilferage: Despite regulations, illicit methanol is often pilfered and used in bootleg liquor. 

Kallakurichi Incident 

• Event: Over 50 deaths due to methanol poisoning in illicit liquor. 
• Cause: Either poor distillation practices or deliberate addition of methanol. 
• Context: Illicit liquor has been distributed widely, suggesting methanol use was not an isolated event. 
• Why Methanol is Used in Illicit Liquor 
• Cost and Potency: Methanol is cheaper and potent. It can provide a similar “kick” as ethanol if diluted, despite being dangerous. 
• Unintentional Use: Bootleggers may inadvertently include methanol due to improper distillation or contamination. 

Historical Context 

• Previous Incidents: The 2015 Malvani tragedy in Mumbai saw over 100 deaths due to methanol poisoning. 
• Legal Outcomes: In the Malvani case, four out of fourteen accused were convicted, highlighting the complexity of prosecuting such cases. 

Solutions and Recommendations 

• Legislation: Strong central and state laws are needed to control methanol supply and prevent pilferage. 
• Implementation: Effective enforcement of existing laws, such as the Poisons Act, is crucial. 
• Separation: Clear separation of methanol and ethanol production and distribution processes. 

Future Directions 

• NITI Aayog’s Plan: Proposes to increase methanol production from two to twenty metric tonnes. 
• Priority: Preventing methanol contamination and ensuring safe ethanol production should be national priorities. 

Conclusion 

The recurring methanol poisoning incidents underline the need for stringent control measures and robust legislation to safeguard public health and ensure the safe production and use of alcohols in India. 

Multiple Choice Question: 

1. Consider the following statements regarding E20 petrol:

1. E20 petrol contains 20% ethanol and 80% gasoline. 

1. The use of E20 petrol can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

1. India has set a target to achieve 20% ethanol blending in petrol by the year 2025-26. 

Which of the statements given above are correct? 

1. 1 and 2 only 

1. 2 and 3 only 

1. 1 and 3 only 

1. 1, 2, and 3 

ANSWER – D 

EXPLANATION: 

E20 petrol is a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% gasoline. 

E20 petrol can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions due to ethanol being a cleaner fuel compared to gasoline. 

India has indeed set a target to achieve 20% ethanol blending in petrol by the year 2025-26. 

INDIA, KOREA MAKE HEADWAY IN CEPA REVIEW TALKS, EXCHANGE ‘REQUEST’ LISTS 

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: THE HINDU 

The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and Korea, initially signed in 2009, is under review to address trade imbalances and expand mutual market access. 

• CEPA Signed: 2009, effective from 2010. 
• Review Agreed: 2016, with ten rounds of talks held since. 

Current Progress 

• Exchanged Requests: Both nations have shared lists of sectors where they seek further trade liberalization. 
• Korean Requests: Automobiles, textiles, chemicals, petrochemicals. 
• Indian Requests: Greater market access for steel, rice, shrimp, clothing. 

Issues and Concerns 

• India’s Trade Deficit: India aims to address its growing trade deficit with Korea. 
• Standards and Barriers: Indian exporters face high safety standards and reluctance from Korean industries. 

Future Steps 

• Next Talks: Dates to be finalized based on readiness of both sides. 
• Expected Conclusion: Possibly by 2024, focusing on balancing trade benefits and concessions. 

COMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT. 

CEPA stands for Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. It’s a type of free trade agreement that goes beyond just goods. CEPA specifically refers to India’s recent agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). 

India’s Relationship with CEPA 

• India is relatively new to signing CEPAs. The India-UAE CEPA is the first one finalized, came into effect in May 2022  
• Boost trade: By eliminating or reducing tariffs on a significant portion of goods traded between the two countries. 
• Expand service sectors: Opening up opportunities in areas like finance, education, and healthcare for both Indian and UAE businesses. 
• Increase investments: By creating a more favorable environment for businesses to invest in each other’s economies. 
• Early signs are positive: Trade figures suggest a rise in Indian exports to the UAE since CEPA’s implementation. 

Overall, CEPA marks a shift in India’s trade strategy, aiming for deeper economic partnerships with key countries. 

Multiple Choice Question: 

1. Consider the following statements regarding Trade Barriers and Non-Trade Barriers:

1. Tariffs imposed on imported goods are an example of trade barriers. 

1. Quotas that limit the quantity of a product that can be imported are considered trade barriers. 

1. Sanitary and phytosanitary measures to protect human, animal, or plant life are examples of non-trade barriers. 

Which of the statements given above are correct? 

1. 1 and 2 only 

1. 2 and 3 only 

1. 1 and 3 only 

1. 1, 2, and 3 

ANSWER – D 

EXPLANATION: 

Tariffs imposed on imported goods are indeed examples of trade barriers. 

Quotas that limit the quantity of a product that can be imported are also considered trade barriers. 

Sanitary and phytosanitary measures to protect human, animal, or plant life are examples of non-trade barriers. 

WHY EXAM SCAM HAPPEN 

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: DECCAN HERALD 

75 years after Independence, India’s systems are inadequate in addressing the aspirations of its youth. The issue is not just corruption in exams but a deeper systemic failure linked to the dubious categorization of “merit.” 

Inadequate Opportunities 

• High Demand, Limited Supply: A staggering 24 lakh students compete for 1 lakh NEET seats. 
• Systemic Failure: The education and employment sectors fail to meet the needs of the youth. 

Meritocracy and Discontent 

• Merit Myth: The notion of merit is used to justify the lack of opportunities, marginalizing the majority. 
• Narrow Success Definition: Success is narrowly defined by wealth and power, neglecting broader aspirations. 

Economic and Social Impact 

• Youth Disillusionment: Limited opportunities lead to disheartenment and a sense of injustice among the youth. 
• Societal Issues: High competition and pressure result in adverse outcomes, including mental health issues and suicides. 

Call for Action 

• Political Responsibility: Politicians must recognize the scale of the problem and respond institutionally, beyond partisan divides. 
• Public Investment: Massive infusion of public funds is needed to expand quality education and employment infrastructure. 
• Social Solidarity: Society must shed dismissive attitudes towards the working class and foster empathy. 

Role of the Elite 

• Expanding Opportunities: The elite should contribute to expanding opportunities for disadvantaged youth, moving beyond self-satisfaction. 

The Shattering Impact of Exam Paper Leaks on Students 

• Demoralization and Frustration: Leaks create an unfair advantage for those who access them, leaving sincere students feeling cheated and demotivated. 
• Wasted Effort: Months of dedicated preparation can feel pointless if the exam content is compromised. This can lead to frustration and a sense of helplessness. 
• Anxiety and Stress: Students might feel pressured to resort to unfair means if they believe others have an advantage. This moral dilemma can cause significant anxiety and stress. 
• Loss of Confidence: Leaks can dent a student’s self-belief, making them question their own abilities and preparation. This can lead to increased anxiety during the exam itself. 
• Systemic Failure: Leaks highlight vulnerabilities in the examination system, shaking students’ faith in its fairness and integrity. This can lead to cynicism and a feeling of being powerless. 

• Devalued Credentials: If leaks become rampant, the value of exam certifications can be undermined, creating a sense of pointlessness in striving for academic excellence. 

Long-Term Consequences 

• Disengagement with Learning: The demotivation caused by leaks can lead to a decline in a student’s overall interest in learning and pursuit of knowledge. 
• Impact on Future Education: Leaks can discourage students from pursuing higher education if they perceive the system as unfair and lacking in credibility. 

Conclusion 

A multi-pronged approach, led by top leadership, is crucial to instill hope and validate the aspirations of India’s youth. Simply cancelling exams and prosecuting individuals is insufficient and dodges the broader issue of systemic inadequacies. 

SPACE VARIABLE OBJECTS MONITOR (SVOM) 

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

The Space Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM) is a collaborative French-Chinese satellite.Launched by a Long March 2-C rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan, China. 

• The mission aims to detect and study gamma-ray bursts (GRBs). 

Satellite Details: 

• Weight: 930 kilograms. 
• Instruments: Four (two French and two Chinese). 
• Orbit: Over 600 kilometers above Earth. 
• Designed life: 5 years, potential operational life: up to 20 years. 

Gamma-Ray Bursts (GRBs): 

• GRBs result from the explosion of massive stars or the fusion of compact stars. 
• Emit energy equivalent to over a billion billion suns. 
• Observing GRBs helps understand the universe’s history and evolution. 

• They are difficult to detect due to their short duration and randomness. 

Significance of SVOM: 

• Can detect the most distant and earliest GRBs. 
• Helps test physical laws under extreme conditions. 
• Provides valuable data on the dynamics of the universe. 
• Observing GRBs is possible only from space due to atmospheric absorption on Earth. 

DISCOVERY OF WORLD’S OLDEST TERMITE MOUNDS IN NAMAQUALAND 

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU 

Recently, scientists unearthed termite mounds along the Buffel’s River in Namaqualand, southern Africa, dating back 34,000 years. This discovery sheds light on ancient ecological systems and human-animal interactions in the region. 

About Namaqualand: 

• Location: Namaqualand spans from the Karas region of Namibia to the Northern Cape province of South Africa, covering approximately 400,000 square kilometers. 
• Climate: Extremely dry, dominated by succulent plants that can store water for long periods, surviving droughts. Rain mainly falls in winter, leading to spectacular wildflower blooms in spring. 
• History: Traditionally inhabited by the Nama people, known for mining copper deposits for centuries. Diamonds were also discovered in the early 1900s. 

Termites: 

• Definition: Insects that consume wood and play a crucial role in breaking down dead wood into nutrients. 
• Habitat: Found globally but most common in tropical rainforests; some species build nests underground, which can rise above ground as mounds. 
• Nest Structure: Constructed from dirt, clay, and chewed wood, forming organized colonies containing royalty, soldiers, and workers. 
• Ecological Role: Facilitate nutrient recycling in ecosystems by decomposing wood, benefiting bacteria and plants. 

Significance of Discovery: 

• Provides insights into ancient ecological stability and climate conditions in Namaqualand. 
• Offers clues about human interaction with termites and their environment over millennia. 
• Highlights the resilience and adaptive strategies of termite colonies in extreme environments. 
• This discovery not only enriches our understanding of ancient ecological dynamics but also underscores the ecological importance of termites in arid regions like Namaqualand. 

GOODS AND SERVICES TAX (GST) COUNCIL 

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS 

The GST Council is a constitutional body formed under Article 279A of the Indian Constitution. It Plays a pivotal role in recommending policies and making decisions related to the implementation of GST in India. 

Composition and Functioning: 

• Members: Chaired by the Union Finance Minister, includes Union Minister of State for Revenue and Ministers from each State Government. 
• Decision Making: Decisions require a three-fourth majority with specific weighted votes: Central Government (1/3) and State Governments collectively (2/3). 
• Meetings: Decisions are taken during council meetings; quorum is set at one-half of the total members. 

Secretariat and Management: 

• Role: Manages administrative tasks related to the GST Council. 
• Staff: Comprises officers from both Central and State Governments. 
• Responsibility: Entirely funded by the Central Government; overseen by the Revenue Secretary of India. 

GST Overview: 

• Implementation: Introduced on July 1, 2017, replacing multiple indirect taxes like excise duty and VAT. 
• Nature: Destination-based tax levied on goods and services at each stage of supply chain. 
• Structure: Divided into Central GST, State GST (for intrastate sales), and Integrated GST (for interstate sales). 

• Tax Credits: Businesses can claim credits for taxes paid on inputs, ensuring taxation is only on value addition. 
• Consumer Impact: Designed to streamline taxation, reduce cascading effects, and ultimately benefit consumers by lowering final prices. 

Conclusion: 

The GST Council’s role is pivotal in shaping and refining GST policies to ensure uniformity and efficiency in indirect taxation across India, benefiting both businesses and consumers alike. 

TRANSLOCATION OF DEER TO BARDA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY 

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU 

The Gujarat Forest Department has initiated the translocation of spotted deer and sambars from Gir Forest to Barda Wildlife Sanctuary. 

• This move aims to support the long-term conservation efforts for Asiatic lions by creating a secondary habitat. 

About Barda Wildlife Sanctuary: 

• Location: Situated in Gujarat, Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is crucial for biodiversity conservation. 
• Rivers and Dams: Includes Bileshvary River, Joghri River, and dams like Khambala and Fodara, providing essential water sources. 
• Community: Home to ethnic groups such as Maldharis, Bharvads, Rabaris, and Gadhvis, who have traditionally coexisted with wildlife. 
• ‘Gir-Barda Project’: Launched in 1979 to develop Barda as a supplementary home for Asiatic lions. 

Flora and Fauna: 

• Flora Diversity: Rich in medicinal plants with approximately 650 species including Rayan, Babul, Ber, Jamun, Amli, Gorad, Bamboo, Dhav, and Dhudhlo. 
• Fauna: Supports a variety of wildlife such as leopard, hyena, wild boar, wolf, jackal, blue bull, and rare birds like spotted eagle and crested hawk eagle. 

Significance of Translocation: 

• Enhances prey base for Asiatic lions, promoting their survival outside Gir Forest. 
• Diversifies wildlife population, enriching biodiversity in Barda Wildlife Sanctuary. 

• Strengthens conservation efforts by reducing dependency on a single habitat and mitigating risks associated with disease outbreaks or natural disasters. 

Conclusion: 

The translocation initiative underscores Gujarat’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and the preservation of Asiatic lions by expanding their habitat range to Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, ensuring long-term sustainability of wildlife populations in the region.