26-August-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

UNIFIED PENSION SCHEME (UPS) VS. NPS VS. OPS

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY– SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Union Cabinet has introduced the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS), set to be effective from April 1, 2025, for central government employees.

This scheme aims to combine the best features of both the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) and the National Pension System (NPS) while addressing the discontent among employees regarding the NPS.

Assured Pension:

• UPS promises a fixed pension, unlike the NPS.
• Pension is calculated as 50% of the employee’s average basic pay in the last 12 months before superannuation.
• A minimum pension of 10 years’ service is required for eligibility.
• Proportional pension is provided for service periods of less than 10 years.

Assured Minimum Pension:

• In case of superannuation with less than 10 years of service, a minimum pension of ₹8,000 to ₹10,000 per month is guaranteed.

Assured Family Pension:

• In the event of the employee’s death, their dependents receive the same benefits as under the OPS.
• The family pension is calculated at 50% of the last drawn basic pay.

Comparison with OPS and NPS

• OPS: The OPS provided a fixed pension of 50% of the last drawn basic pay and dearness relief. However, it was criticized for its unfunded nature and unsustainable fiscal implications.
• NPS: The NPS introduced a defined contribution scheme, where employees and the government contributed to a pension fund. While it offered flexibility, it lacked the assured pension feature of the OPS.

Benefits of the UPS

• Financial Security: The UPS provides a guaranteed pension, ensuring a stable income after retirement.
• Family Protection: The assured family pension safeguards the financial well-being of retirees’ families.
• Inflation Adjustment: The dearness relief feature helps retirees maintain their standard of living.
• Lumpsum Payment: The additional lumpsum payment can be used for various purposes, such as purchasing a property or investing.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND TRANSITION TO UPS UPS Contributions The Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) is a contributory plan, requiring both employees and the government to contribute to the fund. ·       Employee Contribution: Employees are required to contribute 10% of their salary to the UPS. ·       Government Contribution: The government’s contribution is set at 18.5% of the employee’s salary. To ensure the scheme’s long-term sustainability, the government’s contribution may be adjusted periodically based on actuarial assessments. Transition from NPS to UPS ·       Prior to the introduction of the UPS, government employees who joined the service on or after January 1, 2004, were enrolled in the National Pension System (NPS). ·       Under the NPS, pension payouts were linked to the accumulated contributions from both the government and the employee, which were invested in market-linked securities.   ·       To provide greater financial security for government employees, the government has introduced an option for employees who joined the service after 2004, including retirees, to switch from the NPS to the UPS. ·       This transition is expected to benefit a significant portion of NPS members, estimated to be around 99%.

Conclusion

The Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) represents a hybrid approach, combining the assured benefits of OPS with the investment-based model of NPS. This policy aims to address the dissatisfaction with NPS while ensuring a sustainable pension model for the future. It is a significant move in pension reforms and could influence future political and economic decisions.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Which of the following is a key difference between the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) and the Old Pension Scheme (OPS)?
2. UPS provides a fixed pension, while OPS provided a defined contribution scheme.
3. UPS is applicable to all government employees, while OPS was limited to those joining service before a specific date.
4. UPS requires contributions from both employees and the government, while OPS was entirely funded by the government.
5. UPS is a market-linked scheme, while OPS was a guaranteed pension scheme.

ANSWER – C

EXPLANATION:

UPS (Unified Pension Scheme): This scheme is contributory, meaning both employees and the government contribute to the pension fund. This provides a more sustainable model for pension payments.

OPS (Old Pension Scheme): The OPS was entirely funded by the government. This made it less sustainable in the long run and led to concerns about fiscal burden.

Therefore, the key difference lies in the funding mechanism. UPS involves shared contributions, while OPS was fully government funded.

GOVT ANNOUNCES THREE NEW RAMSAR SITES: WHY DO WETLANDS NEED PROTECTION?

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT– SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

Wetlands are vital ecosystems providing numerous environmental, social, and economic benefits. Recently, India announced three new Ramsar sites, emphasizing the country’s commitment to wetland conservation.

These ecosystems are essential for biodiversity, climate regulation, and supporting local livelihoods.

What are Wetlands?

• Defined by the Ramsar Convention as areas with water, whether natural or artificial, that support a unique ecosystem. This includes marshes, swamps, peatlands, and shallow lakes.
• Wetlands can be freshwater or brackish, static or flowing, and are critical in maintaining ecological balance.

Newest Ramsar Sites in India

Nanjanayan Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu:

• An irrigation tank turned biodiversity hotspot.
• Supports various avian species, including the Eurasian coot and spot-billed duck.
• Provides livelihood to local fishing communities.

Kazhuveli Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu:

• Located on the Coromandel Coast, it is one of South India’s largest brackish water wetlands.
• Features a mix of salt marshes, mudflats, and shallow waters, hosting endangered species like the black-headed ibis.

Tawa Reservoir, Madhya Pradesh:

• Created by damming the Tawa River.
• A crucial wintering ground for migratory birds and vital for regional water management and local agriculture.

Threats to Wetlands

• Unsustainable Development: Over 87% of the world’s wetlands have been lost due to land reclamation for housing, agriculture, and industry.
• Pollution: 80% of untreated wastewater is released into wetlands, introducing toxins from pesticides, fertilizers, and industrial spills.
• Invasive Species: Non-native species, often introduced by human activity, threaten the native flora and fauna.
• Climate Change: Altered rainfall patterns and rising temperatures exacerbate the degradation of wetland ecosystems.

Role of the Ramsar Convention

• Established in 1971, it aims to protect wetlands of international importance.
• India, with 85 sites, plays a significant role, showcasing its commitment to wetland conservation.
• The Convention obligates signatory countries to manage and preserve their wetlands, ensuring they remain healthy and sustainable ecosystems.

RAMSAR CONVENTION ON WETLANDS: KEY POINTS The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty focused on the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. ·       Also known as the Convention on Wetlands, it was signed on February 2, 1971, in Ramsar, Iran. ·       February 2nd is celebrated annually as World Wetlands Day. ·       The Convention has 171 Contracting Parties (COP). Philosophy and Wise Use: ·       The core principle of the Ramsar Convention is the “wise use” of wetlands. ·       Wise use refers to maintaining the ecological character of wetlands within the framework of sustainable development. Need for the Convention: ·       Wetlands provide critical ecosystem services, including freshwater supply, food, building materials, biodiversity, flood control, groundwater recharge, and climate change mitigation. ·       Over 64% of the world’s wetlands have disappeared in the last century, underlining the urgency of their conservation. Conference of the Parties (COP): ·       COP is the decision-making body of the Convention, responsible for adopting Resolutions and Recommendations. ·       The COP meets every three years to review the implementation of the Convention. ·       COP13 was held in 2018 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Under the Convention, Contracting Parties commit to: ·       Promoting the wise use of all wetlands. ·       Designating wetlands for the List of Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar List) and ensuring their effective management. ·       Cooperating internationally on transboundary wetlands and shared species. Ramsar Sites: ·       Each Contracting Party must designate at least one wetland for the Ramsar List upon joining the Convention. ·       Designation as a Ramsar Site signifies a commitment to maintaining the site’s ecological character. ·       There are over 2,300 Ramsar Sites globally, with the United Kingdom having the most (175) and Bolivia having the largest area under Ramsar protection. Criteria for Ramsar Wetland Identification ·       Contains a unique or rare wetland type. ·       Supports endangered or threatened species. ·       Maintains regional biological diversity. ·       Provides habitat during critical life stages or adverse conditions. ·       Regularly hosts 20,000+ waterbirds. ·       Supports 1% of a waterbird species’ population. ·       Sustains significant indigenous fish species. Montreux Record: ·       The Montreux Record is a register of Ramsar Sites where ecological character changes have occurred, are occurring, or are likely to occur due to technological developments, pollution, or other human interference. ·       It is maintained as part of the Ramsar List to monitor and address these changes.

Conclusion

The addition of new Ramsar sites in India highlights the urgent need for wetland conservation. These ecosystems, threatened by human activities and climate change, require sustained efforts to maintain their ecological integrity. The Ramsar Convention provides a global framework for wetland protection, and India’s participation demonstrates its dedication to preserving these vital habitats.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Ramsar Sites?
2. Ramsar Sites are wetlands of international importance designated under the Ramsar Convention.
3. A wetland must support a minimum of 10,000 waterbirds to be eligible for designation as a Ramsar Site.
4. The Montreux Record is a register of Ramsar Sites where ecological changes have occurred or are likely to occur.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

ANSWER: B

EXPLANATION:

Ramsar Sites are indeed designated under the Ramsar Convention as wetlands of international importance.

A wetland must support 20,000 or more waterbirds, not 10,000, to meet one of the criteria for Ramsar Site designation.

The Montreux Record lists Ramsar Sites where changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring, or are likely to occur.

AUTONOMY DEMAND BY CLASSICAL LANGUAGE CENTRES

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE– SOURCE: THE HINDU

Special centres established for the promotion of classical languages in India, including Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Odia, are seeking autonomy in their operations. This move aims to enhance their efficiency in carrying out their functions.

Classical Languages in India:

India recognizes six classical languages: Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Odia.

• These languages are promoted through dedicated centres, most of which operate under the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL) in Mysuru.
• The Tamil language centre is autonomous, while the Sanskrit promotion is managed through dedicated universities.

Demand for Autonomy:

• In March 2024, project directors from centres for Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Odia languages sought autonomy for their institutions.
• Autonomy is seen as essential for these centres to effectively carry out their functions, particularly in organizing programs and filling staff positions without delays.

Challenges Faced by the Centres:

• Centres face significant delays in receiving financial sanctions from CIIL, making it difficult to reimburse costs for events and activities.
• Vacancies remain unfilled due to irregular funding, affecting the operational capacity of these centres.
• For instance, the Centre for Studies in Classical Telugu in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, has only 12 out of 36 approved positions filled.

Criteria for Classical Language Status: ·       Antiquity: The language should have early texts or recorded history dating back 1500-2000 years. ·       Literary Heritage: There must be a body of ancient literature or texts considered valuable by generations of speakers. ·       Original Literary Tradition: The literary tradition should be original, not borrowed from another speech community. ·       Distinctness: The classical language should be distinct from its modern form, with potential discontinuity between the classical and modern versions or their offshoots. Benefits of Classical Language Status: ·       International Awards: Two major annual international awards are given to eminent scholars of the language. ·       Centre of Excellence: A dedicated Centre of Excellence for studies in the Classical Language is established. ·       Academic Support: The University Grants Commission (UGC) is requested to create Professional Chairs in Central Universities to promote the study and research of these languages. ·       Financial Assistance: Once a language is declared classical, it receives financial aid for establishing a Centre of Excellence for its study. Recent Developments ·       Modification of Criteria: The Central government is revising the criteria for granting classical language status, based on recommendations from the Linguistics Expert Committee of the Union Culture Ministry. ·       Linguistics Expert Committee: This committee includes representatives from the Union Ministries of Home, Culture, and four to five linguistic experts, and is chaired by the president of the Sahitya Akademi. ·       National Education Policy 2020: The policy emphasizes the preservation of Pali, Persian, and Prakrit literature. Arguments for Inclusion of Additional Languages ·       Bengali: Though categorized as a Modern Indo-Aryan language, research suggests Bengali has a 2,500-year-old history, with its earliest written existence dating back to 3rd-4th BCE. Its syntactic, morphological, and phonological structures have remained consistent. ·       Tulu: A Dravidian language spoken in Karnataka and Kerala, Tulu separated from other Dravidian languages around 2,000 years ago. It has rich oral traditions and is mentioned in Sangam Literature and Greek Mythology. Constitutional Provisions Related to Language ·       Eighth Schedule of the Constitution: Initially included 14 languages, later expanded to 22 languages through various amendments. The schedule aims to promote the progressive use and enrichment of Hindi and other languages. ·       Articles 344(1) and 351: Provide for the promotion and development of the Hindi language to serve as a medium of expression for India’s composite culture.

Government’s Financial Allocation:

• Between 2020 and 2023, ₹643.84 crore was spent on Sanskrit promotion, while only ₹29 crore was allocated for the promotion of the other five classical languages.
• In 2023, the Education Ministry allocated ₹1.76 crore for the Odia centre, but only a fraction of it was utilized due to administrative hurdles.

Conclusion:

The demand for autonomy by classical language centres reflects the need for more efficient and independent functioning to preserve and promote India’s rich linguistic heritage. Autonomy could address funding delays, staff shortages, and enable these centres to carry out their mandate more effectively.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Which of the following is NOT a criterion for designating a language as a classical language in India?
   1. A rich and significant body of ancient literature or texts.
   2. A distinct literary tradition that is not derived from another speech community.
   3. The language must be spoken by a significant portion of the Indian population.
   4. The language must have a history of over 1500-2000 years.

ANSWER – C

EXPLANATION:

The criteria for designating a language as a classical language in India are:

A rich and significant body of ancient literature or texts: The language must have a substantial corpus of ancient literature that has made a significant contribution to Indian culture and thought.

A distinct literary tradition: The language must have its own unique literary tradition that is not derived from another speech community.

A history of over 1500-2000 years: The language must have a documented history of at least 1500-2000 years.

TAX DEMANDS OVER NON-LINKED PANS LEAVE FIRMS IN TIGHT SPOT

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY– SOURCE: THE HINDU

The mandatory linking of Permanent Account Numbers (PANs) with Aadhaar cards has been a significant policy measure introduced by the Indian government.

However, the implementation of this requirement has led to several challenges for taxpayers and businesses.

One such issue is the imposition of tax demands on employers who have not deducted taxes at a higher rate due to non-linked PANs.

• Mandatory Linking: The government mandated the linking of PANs with Aadhaar by May 31, 2024.
• Consequences of Non-Compliance: Non-compliance resulted in inoperative PANs, higher tax deduction rates, and withholding of refunds.
• Tax Demands on Employers: Employers who deducted taxes at a lower rate due to non-linked PANs faced tax demands.
• Financial Burden: Tax demands have imposed significant financial burdens on businesses, especially SMEs.
• Government’s Stance: The government has maintained its stance on mandatory linking.
• Taxpayer Grievances: Taxpayers have raised concerns about unfair tax demands.

PERCENTAGE OF INDIANS PAYING TAXES Estimated Taxpayer Base: Approximately 2.2% of the adult population in India is estimated to be income taxpayers. Low Taxpayer Percentage: This figure is significantly lower compared to many developed countries. International Comparison: ·       Higher Taxpayer Rates: While exact figures may vary, developed countries like France, the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom generally have much higher percentages of their populations paying income tax. In the United States, for instance, the IRS estimates that around 78% of adult taxpayers filed income tax returns in 2021.

Effects of Low Tax Paying or Non-Tax Filing on Indian Economy and Development

Reduced Government Revenue:

• Lower Public Spending: Decreased government revenue can lead to reduced public spending on essential services such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and social welfare programs.
• Fiscal Deficit: A lower tax base can contribute to a fiscal deficit, which may require the government to borrow more, potentially increasing the national debt.

Inequality and Social Disparity:

• Concentration of Wealth: A small taxpaying base can lead to a concentration of wealth among a few individuals or corporations, exacerbating income inequality and social disparity.
• Reduced Access to Public Services: Lower-income individuals and communities may have limited access to public services due to reduced government funding.

                      

Disincentives for Investment:

• Uncertainty: A low taxpaying environment can create uncertainty for investors, deterring them from investing in the economy.
• Unfair Competition: Non-taxpaying businesses may have an unfair competitive advantage over those that comply with tax laws.

Reduced Economic Efficiency:

• Shadow Economy: Low tax compliance can encourage the growth of the shadow economy, which operates outside the formal economy and is difficult to tax.
• Distorted Resource Allocation: The shadow economy can distort resource allocation and hinder economic growth.

Measures to Increase the Tax Base in India:

• Simplify tax procedures and encourage online filing.
• Strengthen enforcement measures and use data analytics.
• Bring the informal sector into the tax net and reduce exemptions.
• Improve taxpayer awareness through campaigns and education.
• Address corruption and inefficiency to enhance trust and compliance.

REALITY OF REEL LIFE, EXPLOITATION AS A STRUCTURAL PROBLEM

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU

The Justice K. Hema Committee report, released on August 19, 2024, by the Kerala government, highlights significant issues faced by women in the Malayalam film industry.

Though it focuses on the regional film sector, its implications extend beyond, addressing systemic problems of gender exploitation and discrimination in cinema.

Key Issues Identified:

Sexual Exploitation and Assault

• Women in cinema often face demands for sexual favors in exchange for career opportunities.
• Those who refuse such demands are frequently marginalized by influential figures in the industry.
• The report emphasizes that such exploitation reflects broader societal issues regarding gender consent and autonomy.

Discriminatory Practices and Lack of Facilities

• Women encounter discrimination and inadequate basic facilities at work.
• The report calls attention to the broader issue of gender inequality in the workplace, mirrored by similar issues in other sectors.
• Structural Problems and Legal Framework

Culture of Assault

• The prevalence of rape and workplace harassment is linked to entrenched patriarchal attitudes and stereotypes.
• The Vishaka Guidelines (1997) and The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act (2013) aim to address workplace harassment but face limitations in their application.

Concerns with Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

• The Hema Committee suggests that the ICC may be influenced by perpetrators or employers, thus undermining its effectiveness.
• While independent forums might be proposed, they face challenges similar to those confronting existing mechanisms.

Legal and Social Implications

Registration of Crimes and Survivor Anonymity

• The report’s redacted version protects survivor identities, aligning with legal norms to prevent discrimination and harassment.
• Survivor cooperation is crucial for successful prosecution, but societal attitudes and prolonged trials often deter reporting and justice.

Call for Structural Reforms

• The report urges comprehensive reforms to address systemic issues within the film industry.
• It highlights the need for improved working conditions and greater awareness to support women against workplace discrimination.

Conclusion

The Justice Hema Committee report underscores the urgent need for structural reforms in the Malayalam film industry and beyond. It reflects broader issues of gender inequality and exploitation, demanding effective legal and societal interventions to ensure justice and equal treatment for women.

CHILE’S ATACAMA SALT FLAT SINKING DUE TO LITHIUM MINING

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Atacama salt flat in Chile, a crucial source of lithium, is experiencing significant subsidence due to extensive lithium mining operations. This new study highlights the environmental consequences of lithium extraction, particularly in arid regions like the Atacama Desert.

Key Findings

• Subsidence: The salt flat is sinking at a rate of 1-2 centimetres per year in areas with intensive lithium mining activities.
• Brine Extraction: The process of extracting lithium-rich brine from the salt flat involves pumping large quantities of water to the surface, leading to aquifer depletion and land subsidence.
• Environmental Impacts: Lithium mining has severe environmental consequences, including water scarcity, soil and water contamination, and habitat destruction for local wildlife.

LITHIUM TRIANGLE AND LITHIUM Lithium Triangle ·       Geographical Area: Intersection of Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina. ·       Key Salt Flats: Salar de Uyuni (Bolivia), Salar de Atacama (Chile), and Salar de Arizaro (Argentina). ·       Lithium Reserves: Contains over 45% of known global lithium reserves. ·       Economic Focus: Bolivia aims to exploit lithium from underground brines for industrial development. ·       Extraction Process: Lithium is extracted from brine by pumping to the surface and evaporating in large ponds. About Lithium ·       Chemical Properties: Symbol Li, atomic number 3; soft, silvery-white alkali metal. ·       Physical Characteristics: Lightest metal and solid element; highly reactive and flammable. ·       Occurrence: Not found freely in nature; usually in ionic compounds or brines. ·       Extraction Method: Isolated electrolytically from lithium chloride and potassium chloride. Applications of Lithium ·       Industrial Uses: Heat-resistant glass and ceramics, lithium grease lubricants, flux additives, lithium and lithium-ion batteries. ·       Medical Uses: Mood-stabilizing drug for bipolar disorder. Conclusion ·       Strategic Importance: Lithium Triangle is crucial for its substantial lithium reserves. ·       Versatility: Lithium is vital in technology and medicine, emphasizing its broad applications.

Conclusion

The study underscores the urgent need for sustainable lithium mining practices. While lithium is essential for clean energy technologies, its extraction must be balanced with environmental protection and the well-being of local communities.

SHOMPEN TRIBE

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNAQNCE – SOURCE: DOWN TO EARTH

The Shompen tribe is one of the most isolated and least studied Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India.

They inhabit the dense tropical rainforests of Great Nicobar Island, part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Habitat and Lifestyle:

• The Shompen live in the Great Nicobar Island, where 95% of the area is covered in rainforest.
• Their habitat includes two National Parks and one Biosphere Reserve: Campbell Bay National Park, Galathea National Park, and Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve.
• They are semi-nomadic hunter-gatherers, relying on hunting, gathering, fishing, and limited horticulture for their livelihood.
• The tribe lives in small groups, with territories defined by rivers. They set up temporary camps in the forest.

Population and Social Structure:

• The exact population of the Shompen is unknown, with the 2011 Census estimating it at 229.
• They maintain minimal contact with outsiders and speak their own language, which has multiple dialects.
• Shompen families are nuclear, typically led by the eldest male who controls family activities.
• Monogamy is common, although polygamy is also permitted.

Physical Features:

• Shompen people have Mongoloid features, including light brown to yellow-brown skin, oblique eyes, and a broad facial profile.

HUMPBACK WHALES

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: TIMES OF INDIA

Humpback whales, scientifically known as Megaptera novaeangliae, are one of the larger whale species found in oceans worldwide.

They are known for their unique feeding method, long migrations, and distinctive features.

Distribution and Migration:

• Humpback whales inhabit all oceans and are known for one of the longest migrations of any mammal.
• They migrate between polar feeding grounds during summer and tropical or subtropical breeding grounds in winter.

Physical Features:

• These whales typically range from 12 to 16 meters in length and weigh around 36 metric tons.
• They have a distinct hump on their dorsal fin and a unique back shape when diving.
• Their bodies are mostly black or grey with white undersides on their flukes, flippers, and bellies.
• Humpback whales have long, wing-like flippers that can be one-third of their body length, and they have large knobs on their heads, jaws, and bodies.

Feeding and Behaviour:

• Humpback whales use a special feeding technique called bubble netting, where they create a curtain of bubbles to trap prey in a small area, making it easier to feed.
• They often feed in large groups and are famous for their complex songs, sung by males, which can be heard up to 20 miles away.

Conservation Status:

• Humpback whales are listed as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List, with a lifespan of 80 to 90 years.