26-December-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

HOW THE 2004 INDIAN OCEAN EARTHQUAKE TRANSFORMED TSUNAMI SCIENCE

TOPIC: (GS3) DISASTER MANAGEMENT: THE HINDU

The 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, one of the most devastating natural disasters in history, exposed the vulnerability of coastal areas to seismic events. This disaster reshaped tsunami science and led to advancements in global disaster preparedness and early warning systems.

Overview of the 2004 Tsunami

• Date and Magnitude: Occurred on December 26, 2004, with a magnitude of 9.1.
• Epicenter: Located off the coast of Sumatra, originating 30 km below the ocean floor in the Sunda Trench.
• Affected Regions: Countries like Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and others along the Indian Ocean faced massive destruction.
• Impact:
  • Affected 17 countries.
  • Over 227,000 fatalities and 1.7 million displaced people.
  • Destruction spanned a 1,300 km rupture zone along the plate boundary.

Lessons from Subsequent Disasters

• The 2004 tsunami emphasized the unpredictability of seismic events.
• In 2011, Japan’s earthquake and tsunami, along with the Fukushima nuclear disaster, reiterated the need for disaster readiness and resilience.

Scientific Advancements After 2004

Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC):

• Established in 2007 to monitor earthquakes and tsunami risks.
• Equipped with seismological and ocean monitoring systems.
• Issues alerts within 10 minutes of detecting a potential tsunami.

Tsunami Geology:

• Researchers explored sediment deposits and uncovered evidence of ancient tsunamis.
• Excavations in Mahabalipuram provided insights into past tsunami events, creating a foundation for a new field of study.

Nuclear Plant Risks and Future Threats

• Revealed Vulnerabilities:
  • Coastal nuclear power plants, like Kalpakkam in India, faced risks during the tsunami.
  • The Fukushima disaster in 2011 highlighted the importance of strengthening safety measures.
• Potential Tsunami Threats:
  • The Makran Coast near Iran and Pakistan poses risks to India’s west coast, especially to cities like Mumbai.
  • Slow seismic slips identified near plate boundaries could provide clues for early earthquake detection.

Ongoing Research and Milestones

• The 2004 event offered invaluable data, advancing studies on earthquake mechanics and tsunami behaviour.
• Research on pre-earthquake signals and seismic slips has improved predictive capabilities, aiding disaster risk mitigation.

Conclusion

The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami not only led to immense human and economic loss but also sparked crucial advancements in tsunami science. Lessons from this disaster continue to shape global approaches to disaster management and resilience-building.

KEN-BETWA LINK PROJECT

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: THE HINDU

The ₹45,000-crore Ken-Betwa river-linking project seeks to address the acute water scarcity in the drought-prone Bundelkhand region. This ambitious initiative links the Ken and Betwa rivers to improve irrigation, drinking water supply, and energy production.

About Ken-Betwa Link Project

• Objective: To alleviate water scarcity in Bundelkhand, covering parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Establish a dependable water supply for agriculture, households, and industrial use.
• Implementation: Connects the Ken River to the Betwa River through a network of canals, dams, and energy-generating facilities.

Key Components

• Canal System: A canal will be constructed to transfer water from the Ken River to the Betwa River. Ensures water availability for irrigation and domestic needs.
• Daudhan Dam: A dam on the Ken River will regulate water flow and store it for irrigation.
• Hydropower: Aims to generate 100 MW of hydropower, addressing energy demands sustainably.
• Solar Power: Includes a plan to produce 27 MW of solar energy, promoting renewable energy usage.

Benefits of the Project

• Water Supply: Improves drinking water access for at least 10 districts in Madhya Pradesh and several districts in Uttar Pradesh.
• Irrigation: Enhances irrigation for 11 lakh hectares of farmland, increasing agricultural productivity.
• Economic Growth: Stimulates regional economic development by improving water and energy availability, supporting local agriculture, and infrastructure.

Environmental Considerations

• Wildlife Protection: The project intersects the Panna Tiger Reserve, requiring measures to mitigate its ecological impact.
• Sustainability: Integrates hydropower and solar power to balance development with environmental sustainability.

Strategic Importance

• National River-Linking Plan: Part of India’s strategy to resolve inter-state water disputes and ensure water security for arid regions.
• Regional Transformation: Enhances livelihoods, boosts agriculture, and improves energy access, driving socio-economic progress in Bundelkhand.

Conclusion

The Ken-Betwa river-linking project is a transformative initiative aimed at addressing water scarcity while promoting energy sustainability and economic growth. Its focus on water security, irrigation, and clean energy ensures long-term benefits for the Bundelkhand region.

INDIA’S VISION TO BECOME A TOP MARITIME NATION BY 2047

TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN ECONOMY: THE HINDU

India aspires to be among the top five maritime nations by 2047, driven by Maritime Vision 2047. This plan emphasizes infrastructure development, cruise tourism, and legislative reforms to enhance India’s global standing in areas like shipbuilding, cargo handling, and eco-friendly shipping.

Key Government Initiatives and Targets

Maritime Vision 2047

• Long-Term Goal: To rank among the top 10 maritime nations by 2030 and among the top 5 by 2047.
• Core Focus Areas: Leadership in shipbuilding, ship repair, and ship recycling. Expansion of cargo handling capacity from 1,600 million metric tonnes to 10,000 million metric tonnes by 2047.
• Investment Plan: A proposed investment of ₹80 lakh crore over 25 years to achieve these goals.

Infrastructure Development

• Port Modernization: Focus on upgrading ports to world-class standards and developing green, eco-friendly ports.
• Integrated Systems: Development of advanced cargo handling, port management systems, and inland waterways to boost efficiency.

Cruise Tourism Promotion

• International Terminals: Six state-of-the-art cruise terminals with facilities comparable to international airports.
• Incentives: Introduction of tax exemptions and subsidies to attract global cruise operators.
• Growth in Tourism: Lighthouse tourism has witnessed a 273% increase in a decade, attracting over 16 lakh visitors annually.

National Maritime Heritage Complex

• Location: Situated in Lothal, Gujarat, this project aims to be the world’s largest maritime museum.
• Timeline:  Phase-1A will open by September 2025, with full completion by 2029.
• Benefits: Expected to attract 25,000 visitors daily and generate 22,000 jobs. International collaborations for preserving maritime history and knowledge exchange.

Legislative Reforms

• Recent Acts: Major Port Authority Act, National Waterways Act, Inland Vessel Act, and Recycling of Ships Act to support port, waterways, and recycling sectors.
• Upcoming Bills: Coastal Shipping Bill and Merchant Shipping Bill to promote coastal shipping, shipbuilding, and improve seafarer welfare while boosting coastal security.

Conclusion

With Maritime Vision 2047 and supporting reforms, India aims to achieve a significant transformation in its maritime sector. Investments in infrastructure, cruise tourism, and legislative frameworks will ensure the country’s progress towards becoming a global maritime leader by 2047.

SUPREME COURT’S EVOLVING ROLE AND CHALLENGES IN 2024-2025

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

The Supreme Court of India has witnessed significant developments in 2024, addressing key constitutional, societal, and legislative issues. It has taken steps to uphold judicial independence and tackle systemic challenges.

Judicial Trends in 2024

Proactive Approach:

• The Supreme Court shifted from “judicial evasion” to addressing critical issues like electoral bonds, illegal demolitions, and politically sensitive bail cases.
• Resolved long-pending issues like the minority status of Aligarh Muslim University and taxation of industrial alcohol.

• Significance: These judgments highlight a commitment to independence and tackling systemic inefficiencies despite political pressures.

Challenges for 2025

Short Tenures of Chief Justices:

• Frequent changes in Chief Justices could disrupt continuity in addressing judicial reforms and pendency issues.
• The digital infrastructure reforms initiated by Justice Chandrachud aim to improve efficiency and transparency.

Key Cases and Disputes

Religious and Constitutional Matters:

• Places of Worship Act: Challenges to the 1991 Act bring questions on secularism and judicial review.
• Hijab Ban: Revisiting the Karnataka headscarf ban, balancing personal liberty with essential religious practices.
• Essential Religious Practices: Cases on Parsi women’s rights and Muslim women’s mosque entry will redefine the doctrine’s application.

Societal Issues:

• Citizenship Act: Exclusion of Muslims in the 2019 Act raises concerns about equality and secularism.
• Marital Rape: Ongoing debates on criminalizing non-consensual marital sex emphasize women’s autonomy.

Judicial Review of Legislative Reforms

• New Criminal Laws: Replacing colonial-era laws introduces changes but raises concerns over sedition provisions and detention periods.
• Uniform Civil Code (UCC): UCC implementation in BJP-ruled states tests the balance between state authority and individual rights, particularly on live-in relationships and personal laws.

Judicial Reforms: Key Measures

• Transparent Appointments: Collaboration between the judiciary and executive to select qualified candidates.
• Reducing Pendency: Increase judges’ strength and divide the Supreme Court into regional benches. Raise the retirement age of judges.
• Efficient Functioning: Reduce vacations and extend court working hours.
• Judicial Impact Assessment: Assess the judicial impact of new laws before implementation.
• Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Promote out-of-court settlements and plea bargaining.
• All India Judicial Services (AIJS): Establish a centralized judicial recruitment system.
• Judicial Infrastructure: Create a National Judicial Infrastructure Authority for standardized development.
• Fast Track Courts: Improve staffing and streamline processes for quicker case disposal.

Conclusion

As the Supreme Court continues to navigate critical constitutional and legislative challenges, reforms in administration, infrastructure, and case management are vital. These steps can ensure timely justice delivery and uphold the judiciary’s role as the guardian of constitutional values.

INDIA: THE FUTURE HUB OF GLOBAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN ECONOMY: THE HINDU

India has emerged as one of the world’s leading startup ecosystems, ranking as the third-largest globally. With over 100 unicorns and government-backed policies fostering innovation, the country is transforming into a global entrepreneurship hub.

India’s Role in the Global Startup Ecosystem

• Global Ranking: India is the 3rd largest startup ecosystem The country boasts 100+ unicorns and over 73,000 startups, many led by women entrepreneurs.
• Government Support: Almost half of Indian startups are supported by the Startup India Initiative, emphasizing inclusivity and innovation.

Key Drivers of Growth

Technological Innovation:

• Sectors like fintech, edtech, health-tech, and e-commerce have flourished.
• Adoption of technologies like AI, blockchain, and IoT has enabled solutions for local and global challenges.

Young and Dynamic Workforce:

• India’s youthful population and affordable internet access have spurred growth.
• Cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi-NCR have become hubs of innovation.

Government Initiatives Promoting Startups

Startup India Program:

• Recognized 1,57,066 startups under DPIIT.
• Offers tax exemptions, funding support, and sector-specific policies to entrepreneurs.
• Platforms like BHASKAR foster stakeholder collaboration.

Support for Innovation:

• Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) and NIDHI provide infrastructure and funding for innovators.
• The SAMRIDH scheme (2021) funds software startups with up to ₹40 lakh.

Economic and Global Impact

• Startups have generated 6 million jobs and driven GDP growth.
• Rural startups improve healthcare, education, and agriculture, promoting inclusivity.
• Global Presence: Startups like BYJU’S, Zomato, Ola, and Nykaa showcase India’s scalability. Innovations such as UPI and Aadhaar inspire global solutions.

Path Forward

• With a young, educated workforce, rising digital connectivity, and investor-friendly policies, India is poised for exponential growth.
• Continued focus on innovation, inclusivity, and economic reforms will solidify India’s position as a global leader in entrepreneurship.

Conclusion

India’s startup ecosystem exemplifies its potential to solve complex challenges, enhance global competitiveness, and foster inclusive development, positioning it as a key player in global innovation.

DISCOVERY OF BACTERIA IN FISH BRAINS

TOPIC: (GS2) SCIENCE AND TEHNOLOGY: INDIAN EXPRESS

A recent study by the University of New Mexico has overturned the long-standing notion that the brain is a sterile organ. Researchers have found live bacteria thriving in the brains of fish. This groundbreaking discovery hints at the possibility of a brain microbiome in vertebrates, including humans.

Key Findings of the Study

Presence of Bacteria in Fish Brains:

• Researchers identified bacteria in the olfactory bulbs and other brain areas of fish.
• Techniques like DNA extraction and microscopic imaging confirmed their presence.

• Challenging Established Beliefs: The findings question the traditional belief that the brain is a sterile environment.

Origins of Brain Microbes

• Evolutionary Perspective: Some bacteria may have colonized the brain before the development of the blood-brain barrier.
• Pathways of Entry: Microbes may enter the brain via the gut or bloodstream, highlighting continuous interactions between bodily systems.
• Dynamic Community: The brain’s microbial population evolves over time, influenced by internal and external factors.

Implications for Humans

• Although humans are different from fish, the study opens new possibilities:
• Potential Brain Microbiome: There could be an unseen microbiome in the human brain.
• Microbial Influence on Brain Functions: Microbes may impact brain processes, similar to the gut-brain axis.

Conclusion

This study broadens our understanding of the brain’s microbial environment and raises important questions about microbial roles in vertebrate brain functions, potentially transforming neuroscience research.

THE DISASTER MANAGEMENT (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2024

TOPIC: (GS3) DISASTER MANAGEMENT: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, proposes changes to the Disaster Management Act, 2005. However, concerns have been raised about its centralized approach, exclusion of key stakeholders, and lack of inclusivity and accountability.

Concerns with the Bill

Centralized Governance

• Shifts from participatory governance to a top-down approach.
• Replaces terms like “supervision” with “monitoring,” reducing trust with local communities.

Exclusion of Local Stakeholders

• Neglects the role of local communities, panchayats, and NGOs, which are often the first responders in disasters (e.g., Kerala floods, Kedarnath disaster).
• Contradicts global frameworks like the Sendai Framework and Yokohama Strategy, which emphasize community involvement.

Lack of Inclusivity

• Does not address the vulnerabilities of women, disabled individuals, marginalized castes, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
• Fails to include mechanisms for addressing intersectional discrimination in disaster responses.

Weak Accountability Measures

• Lacks evaluation frameworks for assessing the disaster preparedness of district authorities.
• Absence of accountability mechanisms may lead to political misuse.

Key Features of the Bill

• Plan Preparation: Disaster plans to be prepared by NDMA (National Disaster Management Authority) and SDMA (State Disaster Management Authority).
• Urban Focus: Allows the creation of Urban Disaster Management Authorities for state capitals and major cities.
• State Disaster Response Force (SDRF): Enables states to establish their own response forces.
• Statutory Committees: Grants statutory status to the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) and the High-Level Committee (HLC).

Omitted Provisions and Shortcomings

• Relief Measures: Sections ensuring minimum standards for relief, loan repayment relief, and ex gratia assistance have been removed.
• Preparedness: Sections mandating disaster integration and preparedness in state plans have been deleted.
• Animal Welfare: Overlooks animal safety during disasters and fails to address their deaths or preparedness measures under the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023.
• Urban Risks: Urban Disaster Management Authority lacks clarity, and municipal corporations often exacerbate urban flooding through resource mismanagement.

Missed Opportunities in Collaboration

• No provisions for regional and international partnerships with groups like SAARC, BIMSTEC, or BRICS.
• Ignores the 2011 SAARC Agreement on Rapid Response to Natural Disasters, a key regional framework.

Conclusion

The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, undermines the participatory and inclusive framework of the 2005 Act. Its top-down approach and omission of critical provisions hinder its effectiveness in ensuring holistic disaster preparedness and response.

HAWAII’S KILAUEA VOLCANO ERUPTION

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: INDIAN EXPRESS

Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes globally, has erupted again. Located in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, it is renowned for its frequent eruptions and significant geological and cultural importance.

About Kilauea Volcano

• Location: Found in the southern region of Hawaii’s Big Island, within Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, USA.
• Type: A shield volcano, the youngest and most active among Hawaiian shield volcanoes, known for frequent eruptions.
• Eruption Zones: Its eruptions occur at its summit caldera or along rift zones.
• Cultural Significance: The central crater, Halemaumau, is believed to be the abode of Pele, the Hawaiian fire goddess.
• Historical Eruption Activity:
  • Hosted a lava lake until 1924.
  • Nearly continuous eruptions were observed in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • 34 eruptions recorded since 1952, with sustained activity from 1983 to 2018 in the East Rift Zone.

Key Features of Kilauea

• Summit Caldera: A massive depression covering over 4 square miles, formed by the partial collapse of the volcano after magma chamber depletion.
• Proximity to Mauna Loa: Its slopes merge with Mauna Loa, another active shield volcano, creating a unique region with two of the world’s most active volcanoes.

What is a Shield Volcano?

Definition: Broad, gently sloping volcanoes formed by fluid basaltic lava.

Features:

• Dome-shaped appearance, unlike steep composite volcanoes.
• Low explosivity with features like cinder cones and spatter cones.
• Explosive eruptions only occur if water enters the vent.

Examples: Kilauea, Mauna Loa.

Volcanoes in India

• Barren Island (Andaman): The only active volcano in India.
• Narcondam (Andaman): Dormant volcano.
• Baratang (Andaman): Known for its mud volcanoes.

Conclusion
Kilauea’s frequent eruptions highlight the dynamic nature of shield volcanoes and their role in shaping the Earth’s geological features.