25-October-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

INDIA-CHINA COORDINATED PATROLLING AGREEMENT

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

India and China have agreed on a framework to manage their border tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the eastern region of Ladakh. This development includes mutual disengagement in specific areas to restore the pre-April 2020 status quo.

Key Areas of Disengagement

Depsang and Demchok (Eastern Ladakh):

• The recent agreement covers the friction points at Depsang and Demchok, two crucial areas along the LAC in eastern Ladakh.
• Disengagement began mid-October 2024, with plans to complete by October 29, marking a significant step in reducing border tensions.
• Once disengagement is finalized, the Indian Army will resume patrols up to Patrolling Points (PP) 10, 11, 11A, 12, and 13 in Depsang, which had been restricted by Chinese forces since early 2020.

Yangste (Arunachal Pradesh):

• An understanding was also reached regarding Yangtze in Arunachal Pradesh, where Chinese patrols will be permitted as per past practices.
• Yangste, located in the Tawang sector, is a sensitive and disputed area due to its strategic importance. This region has experienced consistent Chinese incursions, especially during the summer.

KEY TERMINOLOGIES

Line of Actual Control (LAC):

·       The LAC is the de facto boundary between India and China, especially along disputed regions in eastern Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. It is not a formally agreed-upon boundary but serves as the actual ground position for both countries’ forces.

Patrolling Points (PP):

·       Patrolling Points are specific positions along the LAC in Ladakh where Indian forces conduct patrols to assert their presence. Restrictions on movement to these points have been a source of tension, especially at Depsang’s Y-junction.

Coordinated Patrolling:

·       Coordinated patrolling is a strategy where both sides agree on controlled and organized patrol activities to avoid clashes or direct confrontations.

·       This ensures that patrols are planned in a way that reduces the likelihood of physical encounters between Indian and Chinese forces.

Disengagement:

·       Disengagement is the withdrawal of troops from confrontation points or close proximity. In this context, it refers to both sides stepping back from forward positions to prevent tension escalation.

Agreement Framework

• The disengagement agreement emerged from high-level diplomatic discussions, followed by military-level negotiations. The Indian and Chinese Corps Commanders finalized a detailed plan to implement this disengagement and patrolling mechanism in Depsang and Demchok.

Restoring Pre-April 2020 Status:

• The agreement aims to restore troop positions to those maintained before April 2020 when the LAC tensions started escalating. This means Indian patrols can access previously restricted areas.

Strategic Importance of the Agreement

• Reduced Risk of Confrontation: With both nations agreeing to coordinated patrolling, face-offs and direct encounters can be minimized, maintaining stability along sensitive border areas.
• Diplomatic and Military Coordination: The agreement demonstrates successful coordination between diplomatic channels and military leadership in addressing border issues without conflict escalation.
• Winter Patrol Pause: Though the disengagement and patrolling framework is in place, patrols in the region may halt with the approaching winter. This gives time to evaluate the disengagement’s effectiveness before full patrolling resumes in milder seasons.

How it is beneficial in border security

• This agreement marks a significant move toward reducing tensions between India and China at the LAC, especially in the friction points of Depsang and Demchok.
• Coordinated patrolling and disengagement reflect both countries’ commitment to avoid confrontations in sensitive regions, providing a temporary resolution until further border issues are addressed.
• Understanding terms like LAC, Patrolling Points, and disengagement helps clarify the strategic and logistical framework for students studying India-China relations and border policies.

This agreement’s approach underscores the importance of balancing territorial integrity with diplomatic measures in India’s border policy with China. The next steps include monitoring this framework’s implementation, particularly post-winter, to ensure long-term stability and mutual respect along the LAC.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Which of the following Indian states share a border with China?

1. Sikkim
2. Arunachal Pradesh
3. Himachal Pradesh
4. Assam
5. Uttarakhand
6. Nagaland

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1. 1, 2, 3, and 5 only
2. 1, 2, 4, and 6 only
3. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 only
4. 2, 3, 5, and 6 only

Answer: A

Explanation:
India shares its border with China through the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. Assam and Nagaland do not share a border with China.

SHARPEN THE ANTI-DEFECTION LAW, STRENGTHEN DEMOCRACY

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

The anti-defection law, added to the Indian Constitution in 1985 through the 52nd Amendment, was aimed to ensure that elected representatives maintain loyalty to their political parties, thus upholding the electorate’s mandate. However, despite initial success in curbing defections, the law has faced numerous challenges, loopholes, and implementation issues over the years, sparking discussions around its reform.

Historical Background and Origin of the Anti-Defection Law

• Defection Trend Post-Independence: Frequent party-switching by legislators caused instability and undermined democratic values. Elected members would often defect to other parties, sometimes for personal benefits like monetary gain or ministerial positions, resulting in fragile governments and frequent elections.
• “Aaya Ram, Gaya Ram” Phenomenon: A notable incident in the 1960s in Haryana involved a legislator named Gaya Lal who changed parties multiple times in a single day. This led to the term “Aaya Ram, Gaya Ram,” highlighting the need for legislative measures to curb such actions.
• 52nd Amendment and Tenth Schedule: To address the issue, the anti-defection law was enacted during Rajiv Gandhi’s government, introducing the Tenth Schedule in the Constitution. This Schedule outlines the circumstances under which elected representatives can be disqualified based on defection.

Key Provisions of the Anti-Defection Law

• Disqualification Grounds: Members can face disqualification if they voluntarily resign from their party or disobey the party’s official stance (whip) on crucial votes.
• Exceptions to the Law: The original law allowed a “split” if at least one-third of a party’s members defected. This, however, was misused for mass defections, leading to the 91st Amendment in 2003, which tightened the law by allowing a “merger” only if two-thirds of members agreed to it.
• Role of Speaker/Chairperson: The decision on disqualification is vested with the Speaker (in the Legislative Assembly) or the Chairperson (in the Legislative Council), which has occasionally led to delays and allegations of bias.

Implementation Challenges of the Anti-Defection Law

• Delayed Decisions: There is no fixed timeline for Speakers to decide on defection cases. This delay often allows defectors to retain their positions, defeating the purpose of the law.
• Discretionary Power of Speaker: The Speaker or Chairperson has significant discretionary power in deciding disqualification cases, sometimes leading to allegations of political bias. Courts have generally avoided intervention, citing legislative autonomy.
• Issues with Party Whips: A lack of transparency in party whips leads to disputes over whether members were adequately informed about party directives, complicating disqualification cases.

Political Will and the Need for Reform

• Importance of Political Will: To ensure that the anti-defection law achieves its purpose, strong political resolve from leaders across parties is essential.
• Link with “One Nation, One Election”: Effective implementation of the anti-defection law would promote political stability, which aligns with the government’s goal of synchronizing elections through the “One Nation, One Election” initiative.

Proposed Amendments for Strengthening the Anti-Defection Law

Establishing a Fixed Timeline:

1. • To ensure timely decision-making, a four-week deadline could be established for Speakers to rule on defection cases. If no decision is made within this period, defectors could be automatically disqualified.
   • This would prevent delays, reduce political bias, and reinforce the legislative process’s integrity.

Transparency in Issuing Party Whips:

1. • Mandating that whips be communicated through public means, like newspapers or digital media, would ensure that all members are clearly informed of party directives, reducing disputes.

Independent Tribunal for Defection Cases:

1. • In Keisham Meghachandra Singh vs. The Hon’ble Speaker, Manipur Legislative Assembly (2020), the Supreme Court suggested replacing the Speaker’s role with an independent tribunal appointed by the Election Commission. This would reduce bias and improve impartiality in defection cases.
   • Alternatively, rather than removing the Speaker’s role, reforms could focus on improving accountability and transparency within this office.

Recommendations from Key Reports and Committees

• Dinesh Goswami Committee (1990): Suggested improvements for greater transparency in decision-making.
• 170th Law Commission Report (1999) and 255th Law Commission Report (2015): Addressed various loopholes and recommended amendments for more efficient implementation.
• National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (2002): Proposed reforms for enhancing the effectiveness of the anti-defection law.

Conclusion

The anti-defection law was a significant step toward ensuring government stability and maintaining democratic integrity. However, to fully realize its objectives, reforms are necessary. By introducing a time-bound mechanism for ruling on defection cases, mandating greater transparency in party directives, and considering either an independent tribunal or enhanced accountability for the Speaker, the anti-defection law can better serve its purpose.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Anti-Defection Law in India:

1. A member of Parliament or a State Legislature is disqualified under the Anti-Defection Law if they voluntarily give up membership of their political party or vote against party directives in crucial votes, such as no-confidence motions.
2. The 91st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003, removed the provision allowing a party split if at least one-third of its members defected.
3. The decision regarding disqualification of a member under the Anti-Defection Law is made by the Election Commission of India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

A member is disqualified if they voluntarily give up membership of their party or vote against the party’s direction in critical motions.

The 91st Amendment removed the provision allowing a split if one-third of members defected, raising the threshold to two-thirds for a merger.

The power to decide on disqualification under the Anti-Defection Law lies with the Speaker of the respective House, not the Election Commission of India.

FAIR TRADE

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

As the 29th Conference of Parties (COP29) approaches in Baku, Azerbaijan, discussions around enhancing climate finance and establishing clear carbon markets have gained momentum. India is focusing on accelerating its industries’ shift to carbon markets, with a goal of developing a fair and transparent system for trading carbon credits.

Understanding Carbon Markets:

• Carbon markets allow countries or entities to trade carbon credits, which represent reduced or removed GHG emissions.
• Carbon credits are earned by initiatives such as moving to renewable energy sources or protecting carbon-absorbing ecosystems (e.g., forests).

• Under the Paris Agreement (2015), Article 6 sets guidelines for countries to engage in carbon markets, helping to reduce greenhouse gases (GHGs) through trading carbon credits.

Challenges with Carbon Markets:

• Despite existing for two decades, carbon markets face criticism for lack of transparency and accusations of ineffective emission reductions.
• Verification and validity of carbon credits have been contentious, with concerns about their actual environmental impact.
• Clarity in policies and methods for verifying credits is needed, with expectations that COP29 in Baku may provide solutions for these issues.

Carbon Markets

Carbon markets help put a price on carbon emissions to encourage lower emissions and boost energy efficiency.

• These markets operate by allowing trade in carbon credits, with the goal of reducing overall emissions.
• Example:
  • If a factory exceeds emission standards, it can earn carbon credits.
  • A factory that struggles to meet these standards can buy credits from the first factory to show compliance.
  • This setup rewards the more efficient factory with extra income while helping the other meet its operational requirements.
• Carbon markets work through trading systems where carbon credits or allowances are bought and sold.
• Carbon Credit: 1 Carbon Credit represents permission to emit one metric tonne of carbon dioxide (CO₂) or an equivalent amount of another greenhouse gas (GHG).
• Carbon Allowances or Caps: Limits set by governments to meet their emission reduction goals.
• Article 6 of the Paris Agreement supports international carbon markets for countries to meet their climate commitments, known as NDCs (Nationally Determined Contributions).

Status of Global Carbon Markets:

• In 2021, global trade in carbon allowances or permits grew by 164% to €760 billion (USD 851 billion), according to Refinitiv.
• The EU’s Emissions Trading System (ETS) was the largest contributor, accounting for 90% of the market value at €683 billion.
• Voluntary Carbon Markets: Smaller, with a value around USD 2 billion globally.
• The World Bank estimates that carbon trading could reduce the cost of achieving NDCs by over 50%, potentially saving USD 250 billion by 2030.

India’s Carbon Market Potential:

• India has pledged that by 2030, half its electricity generation will come from non-fossil sources, making it a significant player in carbon-reduction projects.
• Private companies in India are developing projects, such as forest carbon storage, to generate tradable carbon credits.
• Industries like iron and steel are set to meet emission standards by 2025, supporting India’s broader carbon market development.

Creating a Transparent and Effective Carbon Market Policy:

• Establishing carbon markets in India requires accurate, transparent methods for calculating carbon savings.
• Lessons from India’s energy-efficiency trading programs show the need for strict regulations to ensure compliance.
• Research institutions and regulatory bodies in India must work towards a robust carbon trading policy that aligns with global standards

Challenges in Carbon Markets:

• Lack of Transparency: UNDP has raised concerns over issues like double counting of emission reductions, credibility of climate projects, and lack of market transparency.
• Greenwashing: Companies may buy credits to offset their emissions instead of reducing their overall emissions or investing in clean technology.
• Potential for Increased Emissions: In compliance markets like ETS, sectors with high emissions may meet requirements by buying credits rather than reducing emissions, possibly increasing net emissions.

Indian Initiatives:

• Clean Development Mechanism (CDM): Under the Kyoto Protocol, India’s primary carbon market operates through CDM.
• Secondary Carbon Market: Includes the Perform-Achieve-Trade scheme for energy efficiency and Renewable Energy Certificates.

Way Forward:

• To keep global warming below 2°C, and ideally 1.5°C, GHG emissions must be cut by 25-50% within this decade.
• Nearly 170 countries have submitted their NDCs under the 2015 Paris Agreement and are expected to update them every five years.
• UNDP Recommendations: For carbon markets to succeed, emission reductions must be genuine and align with each country’s NDCs.
• Transparency in both institutional and financial structures is essential for effective carbon market transactions.

Conclusion:

India’s transition to a carbon market is crucial for meeting its climate commitments and supporting global emission reduction goals. However, for this to be effective, the country must establish a transparent, research-backed policy framework. This will ensure a fair carbon market that benefits industries and supports India’s climate goals, contributing positively to global climate finance efforts.

MGNREGA WORKER DELETIONS

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) aims to provide employment to rural populations. A recent study by Lib Tech, a research group of academics and activists, highlights a significant reduction in registered MGNREGS workers over the past six months.

Key Findings from the Study

Worker Deletions and Additions:

• Between April and September, 84.8 lakh workers were removed from MGNREGS rolls.
• During the same period, 45.4 lakh new workers were added, leading to a net decrease of 39.3 lakh workers.
• Tamil Nadu and Chhattisgarh had the highest removal rates, with 14.7% and 14.6% of workers deleted, respectively.

Trend of Rising Deletions:

• Lib Tech previously reported that around eight crore workers were removed from the MGNREGS registry during the fiscal years 2022-23 and 2023-24.
• In Andhra Pradesh, a related study found that about 15% of these deletions were erroneous.

Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS) Impact

• The government made ABPS mandatory for MGNREGS payments in January 2023. This requires workers to meet specific conditions:

• • • Link Aadhaar to their job card.
    • Ensure names on Aadhaar and job card match.
    • Have a bank account linked and mapped to Aadhaar.
• Exclusions and Decline in Engagement:
  • 27.4% of all registered workers (6.7 crore) and 4.2% of active workers (54 lakh) do not qualify for ABPS, affecting participation.
  • Active workers have declined by 8% from October 2023 to October 2024, discouraging reliance on MGNREGS and potentially driving migration.

Reduction in Workdays:

• The total person days dropped by 16.6% in the current financial year, totaling 153 crore days.
• Tamil Nadu and Odisha saw the steepest declines, while Maharashtra and Himachal Pradesh recorded slight increases.

WHAT IS MGNREGA?

• MGNREGA stands for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, enacted in 2005.
• This law provides a “right to work” for rural citizens in India, ensuring that at least one adult member of an eligible rural household can receive 100 days of unskilled manual work each year.
• The primary aim is to enhance employment opportunities and improve the economic conditions of rural populations.
• Key organizations, notably the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS) and economist Jean Drèze, were pivotal in advocating for this right to work, leading to the establishment of MGNREGA.

Key Features of MGNREGA

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be an Indian citizen.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must belong to a rural household.
• Must be willing to perform unskilled work.

Evolution of MGNREGA

• Since its introduction, MGNREGA has become a key tool for social security and rural development.
• Approximately 15 million people work daily under MGNREGA at around 1.4 million sites.
• However, budget allocations for the program have decreased, with a reduction to Rs 60,000 crore for 2023-24 from Rs 89,400 crore the previous year.
• Over 31 billion person-days of employment have been generated since the Act’s inception, with significant investments in rural water conservation projects.
• Technological advancements, such as online registration and geotagging, have improved transparency and efficiency in implementation.
• The scheme has been integrated with other programs like the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) for better resource utilization.

Significance of MGNREGA

• Employment Generation: Provides paid work opportunities in rural areas, contributing to poverty alleviation.
• Infrastructure Development: Helps improve rural infrastructure and natural resource management, enhancing the quality of life.
• Income Support: Studies show MGNREGA has compensated for significant income losses due to events like the Covid-19 lockdown.
• Migration Prevention: Aims to reduce rural-to-urban migration by utilizing local labor.
• Rights-Based Approach: Unlike previous schemes, MGNREGA offers a legal guarantee for work, promoting accountability and transparency.

Best Practices Under MGNREGA

• Jalpaiguri Initiative: Promotes aquaculture and agriculture, providing dual income sources for fish farmers.
• Paschim Bardhaman Project: Focuses on empowering women through poultry farming, enhancing family nutrition and income.
• Suspension Bridge in Khasi Hills: Community collaboration to build infrastructure for better market access.

Challenges in Implementing MGNREGA

• Corruption Issues: Instances of fund misappropriation and record manipulation undermine the scheme’s effectiveness.
• Limited Employment Duration: The guarantee of only 100 days may not fulfill the full employment needs of all rural citizens.
• Awareness Gaps: Many rural individuals are unaware of their rights under MGNREGA, limiting participation.
• Bureaucratic Delays: Inefficiencies and delays in service delivery hinder timely access to benefits.
• Quality of Work: Critics argue that the quality of MGNREGA work often does not meet local needs and priorities.
• Financial Inclusion Issues: Inadequate financial systems in states like Bihar complicate wage transfers.

Recommendations for MGNREGA Improvement

• Urban Extension: Consider extending MGNREGA to urban areas to address unemployment in cities.
• Universal Basic Income (UBI): Explore UBI as a more efficient alternative to MGNREGA.
• Scheme Convergence: Align MGNREGA projects with other government schemes for sustainable impact.
• Innovative Strategies: Leverage digital platforms for transparency, monitoring, and involving local governance in implementation.
• Regular Social Audits: Conduct social audits every six months to improve program oversight.
• Job Card Issuance: Ensure job cards are provided directly to eligible workers rather than officials to enhance accountability.

Conclusion:
The increased deletions and ABPS requirements are reducing engagement in MGNREGS. This could affect rural employment and economic stability, raising concerns over the scheme’s accessibility and impact.

Which of the following statements regarding the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) is/are correct?

1. MGNREGS guarantees 100 days of unskilled wage employment in a financial year to every rural household.
2. The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development at the central level and the state governments are responsible for execution.
3. MGNREGS provides legal guarantee for at least 50% of the total work to be provided to women.
4. The funds for the scheme are shared equally between the central and state governments.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

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

Answer: B

Explanation:

MGNREGS guarantees 100 days of unskilled wage employment.

The Ministry of Rural Development oversees the scheme while states implement it.

The scheme mandates that at least one-third of the jobs are reserved for women.

The funding is 100% borne by the central government for wage payments, while states are responsible for the material costs.

PASSIVE EUTHANASIA IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS

Passive euthanasia refers to the practice of withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatments from terminally ill patients. In India, recent developments have clarified the legal framework surrounding this issue, particularly following Supreme Court rulings.

Legal Framework for Passive Euthanasia

Supreme Court Judgments

• Common Cause vs Union of India (2018): Established the right to die with dignity as a fundamental right under Article 21 (Right to life and personal liberty) of the Indian Constitution.
• Further Orders (2023): Clarified and operationalized the earlier judgment, paving the way for official guidelines on withdrawing life support.

• Draft Guidelines by the Ministry of Health: Released to implement Supreme Court orders, aiming to provide a clear pathway for state governments and hospitals regarding the withdrawal of life support in terminally ill patients.

Key Features:

• Formation of Primary and Secondary Medical Boards in hospitals to assess the necessity of life-sustaining treatment.
• Nomination of doctors by district Chief Medical Officers to the Secondary Medical Boards to confirm or reject Primary Board recommendations.

Withholding and Withdrawing Life Support

• Withholding Treatment: Choosing not to start life-sustaining treatments such as ventilators or feeding tubes.
• Withdrawing Treatment: Discontinuing existing life-sustaining interventions when they no longer provide benefit to the patient.

The Process of Withholding or Withdrawing Treatment

Informed Consent

• The decision can be made by patients with decision-making capacity or through advance medical directives (living wills).
• Living Will: A document specifying a person’s wishes regarding medical treatment if they become unable to make decisions in the future.

In Cases Lacking Decision-Making Capacity

• If a patient cannot make decisions and has no living will, physicians can assess the condition to determine if further treatment is futile.
• The process is aimed at avoiding unnecessary suffering and focusing on palliative care.

Clarifying Euthanasia

Euthanasia vs. Passive Euthanasia

• Euthanasia: Intentional act to end a patient’s life to relieve suffering.
• Passive Euthanasia: Often misinterpreted as euthanasia; it involves allowing the natural course of a terminal illness without aggressive treatment.

Do-Not-Attempt-Resuscitation Orders

• Issued by doctors in consultation with patients or their families, allowing natural death without aggressive resuscitation attempts.
• Ensures continued treatment for the underlying condition while respecting the patient’s wishes.

Is Withdrawing Treatment Abandonment?

• Withholding or withdrawing treatment does not equate to giving up on a patient.
• It recognizes when medical interventions no longer benefit the patient and focuses on alleviating suffering through palliative care.

Consequences of Misinterpretation

• Misunderstanding the right to withdraw treatment can lead to practices like “discharge against medical advice,” causing unnecessary suffering for patients and emotional distress for families.

Process of Creating a Living Will

• Individuals aged 18 or older can create a living will detailing their treatment preferences in the event of losing decision-making capacity.
• The document must:
  • Identify at least two surrogate decision-makers.
  • Be signed in the presence of witnesses and notarized.

Medical Procedure for Withholding or Withdrawing Treatment

• Medical Board Evaluations: Hospitals must establish a Primary Medical Board made up of the treating doctor and two specialists to assess the patient’s condition. A Secondary Medical Board of independent experts will then review the Primary Board’s recommendations.
• Consent and Legal Notification: Consent from surrogate decision-makers or individuals named in the living will is required before any treatment can be withdrawn. Additionally, these decisions must be reported to local judicial magistrates for legal transparency.
• Role of Doctors in Decision-Making: Doctors are not making random life-and-death decisions; instead, they are performing standard evaluations guided by medical ethics. The approach emphasizes “shared decision-making” that involves collaboration between doctors, families, and surrogate decision-makers.

Ethical Challenges in Passive Euthanasia

• Decision Impact: There are concerns about whether withholding treatment truly benefits the patient. Prolonging life in a terminal condition might lead to more suffering rather than relief.
• Harm Principle: Keeping patients alive in a vegetative state through artificial means can extend suffering for both the patients and their caregivers, which contradicts the medical principle of “do no harm.”
• Rights to Life and Death: The patient’s rights to a dignified life and death may be undermined. This issue has been discussed in significant court cases, such as the Common Cause v. Union of India (2018), which affirmed the right to die with dignity as part of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.
• Patient’s Choice: The decision-making process often neglects the patient’s right to choose their own course of treatment, impacting their dignity. The wishes of both the patient and their family should be taken into account.

Need for Legal Clarity:

• There is an urgent need to legally distinguish between euthanasia (actively ending a life) and the withdrawal of ineffective life-sustaining treatment.
• Role of Medical and Ethical Experts : The decision-making process in these sensitive situations should involve palliative care specialists and ethics experts to ensure that both medical and ethical aspects are thoroughly considered.

• Empowerment Through Planning: Encouraging Advance Medical Directives allows individuals to express their wishes regarding end-of-life care, ensuring that their rights to a quality life and death are honored.

• Avoiding Legal Conflicts: There is a need for systemic reforms to prevent families from being caught in legal disputes, ensuring that patients’ rights are protected through appropriate legal frameworks.

Conclusion

Passive euthanasia in India is guided by Supreme Court rulings and the newly drafted guidelines that ensure patient rights and dignity. The legal framework emphasizes the importance of informed consent and ethical considerations while addressing the emotional aspects for patients and their families. Through clear procedures and shared decision-making, India seeks to provide a compassionate approach to end-of-life care.

UNION CABINET APPROVES ₹1,000-CRORE VENTURE FUND FOR INDIA’S SPACE START-UP ECOSYSTEM

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

The Union Cabinet has approved a ₹1,000-crore venture capital fund aimed at supporting 30-35 space start-ups over the next five years. This initiative is designed to encourage private investment and innovation in India’s space sector.

What is a Venture Capital Fund?

• Venture capital (VC) is a form of funding provided to start-ups or emerging companies in exchange for equity or ownership stakes in the business.
• VC is typically offered by firms or funds that specialize in investing in early-stage companies showing high growth potential, whether in revenue or workforce.
• Investors in these venture capital firms often include large entities such as pension funds, university endowments, and wealthy individuals.

Focus on Commercialization and Early-Stage Support

• The fund will prioritize start-ups that have achieved a proof of concept but require assistance in commercializing their innovations.
• Early-stage funding is vital for these companies, as it significantly boosts their chances of achieving success.
• The amount of funding provided will range from ₹10 crore to ₹60 crore, depending on the start-up’s stage of growth and its potential contributions to national space capabilities.

Driving India’s Global Space Market Presence

• This initiative aligns with India’s goal of expanding its share in the global space market, aiming to grow the domestic space industry from its current valuation of $8.4 billion to $44 billion.
• Since the liberalization of the space sector in 2020, approximately 250 space start-ups have been established, and this number is anticipated to grow with the introduction of this venture fund.
• The initiative is also expected to create thousands of jobs, establish supply chains, and enhance manufacturing and technical skills in the sector.

Scope for Innovation and Economic Impact

• The fund will support innovations in satellite and launch vehicle technologies, expand various space applications, and promote further reforms in the space sector, helping India’s ecosystem compete with other leading space nations.

Structured and Professionally Managed Funding Approach

• The fund will operate under an alternative investment fund structure regulated by SEBI and will be managed professionally.
• An initial allocation of ₹150 crore will be made in the first year, with plans to increase this amount progressively over time.
• According to the Indian Space Association, this funding will not only support the growth of start-ups but also attract additional investments, marking a significant advancement for India’s space start-up ecosystem.

Conclusion:

In the future, the ₹1,000-crore venture fund is poised to significantly enhance India’s space capabilities and innovation landscape, positioning the country as a formidable player in the global space market. By fostering a robust ecosystem for start-ups, India can drive technological advancements and economic growth in the space sector.

INDIA MARKS PROGRESS IN GREAT INDIAN BUSTARD CONSERVATION WITH FIRST CHICK FROM ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION

TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN EXPRESS: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Sudasari Great Indian Bustard Breeding Centre in Rajasthan celebrated a major achievement with the birth of a Great Indian Bustard (GIB) chick through artificial insemination. This development is a significant step forward in conserving this critically endangered bird, which has fewer than 150 individuals remaining in the wild, primarily located in Rajasthan.

What is the Great Indian Bustard?

• The Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps) is recognized as the state bird of Rajasthan and is deemed the most critically endangered bird in India.
• This bird serves as a flagship species for grassland ecosystems, indicating the health of these environments.
• Its population is mainly restricted to Rajasthan and Gujarat, with smaller groups found in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.

Protection Status:

• IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered
• CITES: Appendix I
• CMS: Appendix I
• Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I

Learning from Global Efforts

• The artificial insemination method was modelled after techniques used by the International Fund for Houbara Conservation in Abu Dhabi, where similar strategies have proven effective.
• Researchers from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) were trained in these techniques to boost GIB conservation efforts.

Challenges to the GIB Population and Habitat

• The GIB population is threatened by several factors, including egg predation, habitat destruction due to human activity, and deadly encounters with power lines.
• A study conducted by the WII in 2020 revealed that approximately 84,000 birds, including GIBs, die each year in their habitats due to power lines, largely because GIBs have limited frontal vision.
• Although the Supreme Court ordered the installation of underground power lines in GIB habitats in 2021, the feasibility of this measure is still being evaluated.

Conservation Initiatives and Future Obstacles

Long-Term Conservation Programs:

• The GIB breeding program, launched in 2019, aims to release captive-bred birds into their natural habitat. However, experts estimate that establishing a self-sustaining population may take up to 25 years.
• Wildlife biologists emphasize the importance of habitat protection, as GIB nesting behaviors make them particularly vulnerable. Without adequate preservation and restoration of their habitats, the success of artificial insemination efforts may be limited.

Steps Being Taken for GIB Conservation

• Species Recovery Program: The GIB is included in the species recovery program under the Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats managed by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
• Firefly Bird Diverters: Firefly bird diverters, which are reflective flaps installed on power lines, help birds, including GIBs, detect hazards from a distance of about 50 meters, allowing them to avoid collisions.
• Artificial Hatching Efforts: The conservation breeding program initiated in 2019 involved collecting wild eggs for artificial hatching. The first chick, named ‘Uno,’ was born on June 21, 2019, followed by eight more chicks that year. In total, 29 GIBs are currently housed across two breeding centres in Rajasthan.
• National Bustard Recovery Plans: Conservation agencies are actively implementing recovery plans specifically designed for the GIB.
• Conservation Breeding Facility: A collaborative conservation breeding facility has been set up in the Desert National Park at Jaisalmer, established by the MoEF&CC, Rajasthan government, and WII since June 2019.
• Project Great Indian Bustard: This initiative launched by the Rajasthan government aims to create breeding enclosures for the species and develop infrastructure to mitigate human impact on their habitats.

Conclusion

The successful artificial insemination of a Great Indian Bustard chick marks a crucial achievement in conservation efforts, underscoring the need for continued focus on habitat preservation and long-term ecological strategies to ensure the survival of this endangered species.

TRACHOMA ELIMINATED AS A PUBLIC HEALTH PROBLEM IN INDIA:

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: INDIAN EXPRESS

India celebrated a major public health milestone on October 8, 2024, by eliminating trachoma as a health issue. This achievement highlights the effectiveness of public health initiatives in reducing disease prevalence and improving quality of life, even amidst ongoing challenges.

What is Trachoma?

• Trachoma is a persistent infectious eye condition caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.
• It predominantly affects young children and women, especially in regions with inadequate hygiene, sanitation, and limited access to clean water.
• Symptoms include eye irritation, discharge, swollen eyelids, and in severe cases, blindness resulting from scarring of the inner eyelid.

Impact of Trachoma in India

Consequences of Trachoma:

• In 2005, trachoma accounted for approximately 4% of all blindness cases in India.
• The disease leads to an estimated economic loss of $2.9 to $5.3 billion each year due to decreased productivity related to blindness and visual impairment.
• Transmission of trachoma is worsened by poor living conditions and hygiene practices, particularly in northern states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.

India’s Journey to Eliminate Trachoma

Elimination Achieved:

• India has successfully eliminated trachoma as a public health issue, reporting a prevalence rate of just 0.7%.
• This accomplishment was largely facilitated by the WHO’s SAFE strategy, which stands for Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, and Environmental improvements.

Need for Ongoing Efforts:

• Although trachoma has been eliminated, sporadic cases may still occur, highlighting the necessity for continuous monitoring and health education to sustain this achievement and prevent any potential resurgence.

Future Considerations

• Moving forward, it is crucial to maintain vigilance in surveillance, implement ongoing health education programs, and ensure improved sanitation and hygiene practices to protect the gains made in trachoma elimination.
• Continued investment in public health infrastructure and community engagement will be vital to safeguard against the return of trachoma and other infectious diseases.

Conclusion:

India’s successful elimination of trachoma as a public health problem is a significant milestone, highlighting the effectiveness of targeted health interventions. Continued vigilance and community engagement are essential to sustain this achievement and prevent future occurrences.

MOVE ON MADRASAS, THE ALIENATION OF MUSLIMS

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

The Supreme Court of India has temporarily halted the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) recommendations that aimed to cut government funding to madrasas that do not comply with the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009.

Context of the NCPCR’s Recommendations

• Background of NCPCR’s Initiative: The NCPCR’s recommendations were perceived to align with ideologies suggesting that religious minorities are threats to national integrity. The Lok Janshakti Party leader, A.K. Bajpai, expressed worries about the potential dangers of these initiatives.

• Importance of CPCR Act: The Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005 is a progressive legal framework in India aimed at safeguarding children’s rights. Despite significant issues like child trafficking and denial of education, the NCPCR’s focus appears misguided.

The Nature of the Recommendations

• Concerns Over Discrimination: The NCPCR has suggested excluding children from other religions from madrasas, raising concerns about fairness and inclusivity. Critics argue this approach could harm children’s educational opportunities rather than improve them.

Historical Context

• Understanding the Term “Madrasa”: The term “madrasa” simply means school in Arabic and historically has included both religious and secular education. Many notable figures in Indian history, regardless of their faith, received their education from madrasas, highlighting a tradition of learning that transcends religious boundaries.

Case of Kerala

• Kerala’s Education System: Kerala is often cited as a state with a robust public education system that provides quality education without the need for extensive madrasa funding. Reports suggesting that the Kerala government spends excessively on madrasas are unfounded; the Madrasa Teachers’ Welfare Fund serves to support educators, not appease religious groups.

FREEDOM OF RELIGION IN INDIA

• Article 25: Guarantees the freedom to profess, practice, and propagate any religion, allowing individuals to follow their beliefs without interference.
• Article 26: Provides the right to manage religious affairs, including the right to establish and maintain institutions for religious and charitable purposes.
• Article 27: Prohibits the government from compelling individuals to pay taxes for the promotion or maintenance of any particular religion.
• Article 28: Ensures that no religious instruction is provided in educational institutions wholly maintained out of state funds, promoting secular education.
• Article 29: Protects the rights of minorities to conserve their culture, language, and script, thus supporting religious diversity.
• Article 30: Grants minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice, reinforcing the freedom of religious expression through education.
• Article 14: Upholds the right to equality before the law, ensuring that individuals of all religions are treated equally and without discrimination.

 

NCPCR’s Role

• Challenges Faced by NCPCR: The NCPCR’s recent actions have alienated religious minorities and raised questions about their commitment to child rights and national harmony.

challenges Faced by NCPCR

• Political Pressure: The NCPCR often operates under significant political scrutiny, which can influence its decisions and priorities. This pressure may lead to recommendations that align more closely with prevailing political ideologies rather than the best interests of children’s rights.
• Limited Resources: The commission may struggle with inadequate funding and resources, hampering its ability to effectively monitor and enforce child protection laws across diverse regions in India. This limitation can result in inadequate attention to pressing issues such as child trafficking and education.
• Balancing Diverse Interests: The NCPCR must navigate a complex landscape of competing interests, including various religious and cultural groups. This balancing act can make it challenging to implement policies that are fair and equitable for all communities.
• Public Perception and Trust: There may be a lack of trust in the NCPCR among certain communities, particularly religious minorities. If the commission is perceived as biased or discriminatory, it can undermine its credibility and effectiveness in advocating for children’s rights across all demographics.

Promoting Pluralism in India

• Inclusive Education: Implement curricula that highlight diverse cultures and religions to foster understanding among students.
• Interfaith Dialogue: Organize events to encourage discussions among different religious and cultural groups, promoting tolerance and harmony.
• Protective Policies: Establish and enforce policies that safeguard the rights of minority groups, ensuring equal access and representation.
• Cultural Celebrations: Support and participate in various cultural festivals to encourage appreciation and engagement with different heritages.

Concerns Over Majoritarianism

• Insecurity Among Religious Minorities: Religious minorities face increasing insecurity and discrimination from majoritarian forces in society.
• The NCPCR’s approach appears to align with these divisive sentiments, potentially harming the social fabric of the country.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s recent stay provides temporary relief for minorities and secular advocates in India, but concerns over the NCPCR’s recommendations persist. It’s vital for the NCPCR to promote inclusivity and uphold constitutional values, ensuring all children receive an equitable education while fostering cooperation among diverse communities to maintain national unity.

CASPIAN SEA

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: THE HINDU

The Caspian Sea has been experiencing a reduction in size since the mid-1990s, with the rate of shrinkage accelerating since 2005.

About the Caspian Sea

• The Caspian Sea is the largest inland body of water in the world, with a surface area of approximately 386,400 square kilometres.
• It is situated between the continents of Asia and Europe.
• The sea is located east of the Caucasus Mountains and west of the expansive steppe of Central Asia.

Bordering Countries

• The Caspian Sea is bordered by Russia and Azerbaijan to the west, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan to the north and east, and Iran to the south.
• It is named after the ancient Kaspi people who inhabited its western shores.

Formation

• Despite its name, the Caspian Sea is technically a lake since it is an enclosed water body with no direct connection to the ocean.
• Approximately 5.5 million years ago, it was part of the ancient Parathethys Sea within the Tethys Ocean and became landlocked due to tectonic uplift and a drop in sea levels.
• The seabed of the Caspian Sea consists of oceanic basalt rather than continental granite.

Water Composition

• The salinity of the Caspian Sea varies, with the northern regions being nearly fresh and salinity increasing towards the south.
• The average salinity of the Caspian Sea is about one-third that of ocean water.
• Three significant rivers—the Volga, the Ural, and the Terek—flow into the Caspian from the north.

Major Cities

• Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is the largest city along the Caspian Sea.
• Another notable city on its shores is Nowshahr in Iran.

Natural Resources

• The Caspian Sea is rich in energy resources, including substantial oil and natural gas reserves located in both offshore fields and along the coastline.
• It is also renowned as the primary source of caviar worldwide.

INDIAN COUNCIL FOR CULTURAL RELATIONS (ICCR)

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) recently organized a conference in Colombo, focusing on the recognition of Pali as a classical language by the Indian government, bringing together Buddhist monks and scholars.

About the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR)

• The ICCR is an autonomous organization operating under the Ministry of External Affairs of the Government of India, dedicated to enhancing India’s cultural relations with other nations through cultural exchanges.
• It promotes Indian culture internationally through a network of cultural centers located abroad.
• The council was established in 1950 by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, who was the first Education Minister of independent India.

Objectives

• To actively engage in developing and executing policies and programs related to India’s international cultural relations.
• To cultivate and reinforce cultural ties and mutual understanding between India and other nations.
• To facilitate cultural exchanges with various countries and peoples.

Scholarship Programs

• The ICCR administers numerous scholarship programs, awarding over 3,000 scholarships annually across 21 different schemes to international students from around 180 countries.
• Of these schemes, six are funded directly by the ICCR, while the remaining programs are managed on behalf of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Ministry of Ayush.
• The scholarships cover a wide range of academic courses, from undergraduate to postdoctoral levels, at leading universities and educational institutions throughout India.

EXERCISE SIMBEX

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: PIB

The 31st edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) is set to take place from October 23 to 29, 2024, at the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam.

About Exercise SIMBEX

• SIMBEX is an annual naval exercise conducted between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN).
• The exercise has been held since 1994.
• Initially known as ‘Exercise Lion King,’ it has transformed into a key maritime collaboration between the two navies over the years.
• It is recognized as the longest-running naval exercise that the Indian Navy conducts with any foreign nation.

Structure of the Exercise

• This year’s exercise will take place in two phases: the Harbour Phase in Visakhapatnam and the Sea Phase in the Bay of Bengal.
• The aim of the exercise is to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Singapore by enhancing interoperability, boosting maritime domain awareness, and promoting cooperation on shared maritime challenges.

Activities

• Harbour Phase: This phase will involve Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), cross-deck visits, sports events, and pre-sail briefings among personnel from both navies.
• Sea Phase: This phase will include advanced naval drills featuring live weapon firings, anti-submarine warfare (ASW) training, anti-surface and anti-air operations, seamanship evolutions, and tactical manoeuvres.