26-November-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

STUBBLE BURNING AND SATELLITE TRACKING

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana has emerged as a significant contributor to air pollution, particularly affecting the National Capital Region (NCR). Satellite technology is widely employed to monitor these fires, but challenges persist in accurately tracking them due to evolving farmer strategies.

How Satellites Track Farm Fires

• Wide Coverage: Given the vast areas involved, satellites provide an efficient way to monitor fires.

• NASA’s Aqua and Suomi-NPP: Equipped with Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) and Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) instruments.
• These satellites capture images at 1:30 p.m. and 1:30 a.m., tracking fire locations and aerosol levels.
• South Korea’s GEO-KOMPSAT 2A: A geostationary weather satellite that offers real-time fire tracking and smoke cover analysis.
• European Space Agency’s Sentinel II: Monitors burnt areas every five days.

Effectiveness of Satellite Tracking

• Reported Decline in Fires: Official data claims a significant reduction in fires between 2020 and 2024 (71% in Punjab, 44% in Haryana).
• Questionable Accuracy: Reports suggest ground-based burning increased despite satellite-reported reductions

Farmer Adaptation to Tracking

• Farmers have adapted by burning stubble after satellite observation windows.
• Minutes from a meeting in March 2024 indicate awareness of satellite schedules, and some officials reportedly advised burning after 4 p.m.

Government and Judicial Response

• Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM): Established in 2020 to address air pollution in NCR. Faces criticism for ineffective measures and data discrepancies.
• Supreme Court Intervention: Urged CAQM to address delayed stubble-burning tactics.

Role of Indian Satellites

• Existing Capabilities: RESOURCESAT satellites: Advanced imaging tools like LISS cameras with resolutions as fine as 5.8 m.
• Future Plans: ISRO plans to evaluate INSAT-3DR, Meteosat, and other satellite data for better accuracy.

Challenges with Satellite Monitoring

• Timing of Satellite Overpass: Farmers allegedly delay burning stubble until after satellites pass at 1:30 p.m., avoiding detection. Observations indicate increasing smoke and aerosols later in the day, suggesting fires occur outside satellite observation windows.

• Resolution Limitations: INSAT-3DR (India) has a coarse resolution of 1–8 km, making it unsuitable for precise fire counting.
• Data Inconsistencies: Contradictions exist between NASA satellite data, state government reports, and local observations.

Conclusion

Satellite technology is essential for tracking stubble burning over large areas. However, challenges like timing gaps, data inconsistencies, and farmer adaptation require improved monitoring systems. Innovations in satellite imaging and coordinated government actions can address the gaps and mitigate pollution.

THE SECULAR NATURE OF THE INDIAN CONSTITUTION:

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

The Indian Constitution, both in spirit and letter, has always upheld secularism as a guiding principle. Though the term “secular” was added to the Preamble through the 42nd Amendment in 1976, the essence of secularism was embedded in the constitutional framework from its inception. This ensures equality and inclusiveness in India’s pluralistic society, reflecting the nation’s commitment to justice and fraternity.

Secularism in the Constitution

Secularism in India emphasizes equal respect for all religions. It ensures that the State maintains a principled distance from religious matters while regulating practices to align with modern societal values.

Constitutional Provisions Reflecting Secularism

• Equality and Non-discrimination: Article 14: Equality before the law. Articles 15 & 16: Prohibition of discrimination on religious grounds.
• Religious Freedom: Articles 25-28: Guarantee of freedom of religion, protection against religious taxes, and ban on religious instruction in state-funded institutions.
• Minority Rights: Articles 29 & 30: Right of minorities to establish and manage educational institutions.

• Regulation of Religious Practices: Article 25(2): Permits the State to regulate secular aspects of religious practices. Articles 17 and 25(2)(b): Abolish untouchability and allow social reform within the Hindu religion.

• Directive Principles with Religious Sensitivity

• • Article 48: Promotes prohibition of cow slaughter.

1. • Article 44: Advocates for a Uniform Civil Code (UCC).

Historical Context and Debate

• Constituent Assembly Discussions: Secularism was debated in the Assembly but not explicitly included in the Constitution to allow flexibility in the evolving social framework.

• B.R. Ambedkar opposed the formal inclusion of terms like “secular” in Article 1, arguing that the Constitution already embodied secular values.

Amendments and Supreme Court Rulings

• Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973): Secularism was declared a part of the Constitution’s basic structure, beyond Parliament’s power to amend.
• 42nd Amendment (1976): Formally added “secular” to the Preamble.
• R. Bommai Case (1994): Reaffirmed secularism as a fundamental feature of the Constitution.

Significance of Secularism in India

• Secularism promotes national unity by fostering harmony among diverse communities.
• It ensures that the State remains neutral in religious matters, safeguarding both individual freedoms and collective equality.

Conclusion

The Indian Constitution’s secularism is a cornerstone of its democratic ethos. As affirmed by Supreme Court judgments, secularism is an intrinsic part of its basic structure, ensuring inclusivity and harmony in a diverse society. This principle remains central to India’s vision of justice, equality, and fraternity.Top of Form

PRESIDENT TO ADDRESS PARLIAMENT ON 75 YEARS OF THE CONSTITUTION

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Indian Constitution, President Droupadi Murmu will deliver a special address in Parliament’s Central Hall. The event will commemorate India’s democratic journey and reflect on the values enshrined in the Constitution.

Importance of the President’s Address in Parliament

• Solemn Occasion: The President’s address is one of the most important and formal events in the Parliamentary calendar.
• Unity of Parliament: It is a unique occasion where members of both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha come together in a joint session.
• Government’s Policy Platform: The address allows the government to present its plans, policies, and key legislative priorities for the year.
• Symbol of Constitutional Role: It highlights the President’s role as the constitutional head, reflecting the functioning of democracy in India.
• Accountability and Direction: The speech sets the tone for the government’s agenda and provides a roadmap for the sessions ahead, ensuring accountability to Parliament.

Other Highlights

• Union Culture Secretary announced that a special website had been launched for the year-long celebrations of the Constitution’s 75th anniversary.
• Commemorative coins and postal stamps will be issued to mark this historic event.

Significance of the Event

• The session reflects on the enduring principles of justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity that the Constitution upholds.
• It is an opportunity for Parliament to reaffirm its commitment to democratic values and inclusivity.

History and Evolution of the President’s Address

Global Tradition

• United Kingdom: The practice of the monarch addressing Parliament began in the 16th century.
• United States: President George Washington addressed Congress for the first time in 1790, setting the tradition for annual addresses.

Evolution in India

• Government of India Act, 1919: The practice of a head of state addressing the legislature began under this Act.
• Post-Independence (1947-1950): During this period, there was no address to the Constituent Assembly (Legislative).
• First Address Under the Constitution: President Rajendra Prasad delivered the first Presidential address to both Houses of Parliament on January 31, 1950, after the Constitution came into effect.

Constitutional Provisions

• Power of the President and Governors: The Indian Constitution allows the President and State Governors to address their respective legislatures.
• Article 87 of the Constitution: Specifies two occasions when the President addresses both Houses of Parliament:

1. • • At the beginning of the first session after each general election when the new Lok Sabha is constituted.
     • At the beginning of the first session of each year.

Conclusion
This event commemorates a milestone in India’s democratic history, honouring the Constitution and its framers. It emphasizes the unity and diversity of India, while also showcasing the significance of dialogue and participation in strengthening parliamentary democracy.

GELEPHU, A LANDMARK COOPERATIVE PROJECT

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

Bhutan is developing Gelephu Mindfulness City as a significant cooperative project with India’s support. The initiative was highlighted during the first International Global Cooperative Conference in Delhi, inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Key Highlights of the Conference

• The first International Global Cooperative Conference was held in Delhi.
• It was inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi and attended by around 3,000 delegates, including 1,000 international representatives from 100 countries.

About Gelephu Mindfulness City

• The Gelephu Mindfulness City is a 2,500 sq. km urban project in southern Bhutan, near the Assam border.
• It aims to be a hub for knowledge, technology, and finance, built on principles of mindfulness, sustainability, and community harmony.
• Cooperative Model: Every Bhutanese citizen will have a stake in the city as shareholders and participants in the initiative. This model embodies the cooperative spirit by ensuring inclusivity and shared ownership.
• Zero Carbon Vision: The city is planned as a “Zero Carbon” project, promoting environmental sustainability. It seeks to balance urban growth with ecological preservation.

Collaboration with India

• Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay expressed gratitude for India’s support in the development of the city.
• The initiative has been guided by collaboration with Indian private sectors in areas such as infrastructure, education, wellness, IT, and hospitality.

India’s Commitment to Cooperation

• Speech Highlights: PM Modi referred to the global cooperative movement as an opportunity for addressing global challenges.
• He emphasized prosperity through cooperation and modernizing Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) to make them more inclusive and technologically advanced.
• Union Government Initiatives: Amit Shah highlighted the government’s aim to establish two lakhs new PACS to ensure every village has a cooperative society.
• Steps are being taken to make PACS modern, tech-enabled, and economically sustainable.

EVOLUTION OF THE COOPERATIVE SECTOR IN INDIA

Key Milestones in Cooperative Development

• First Five-Year Plan (1951-56): Promoted cooperatives for community development and rural growth.
• Multi-State Co-operative Societies Act, 2002: Regulated the formation and functioning of cooperatives operating across multiple states.
• 97th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2011
  • Made the right to form cooperative societies a fundamental right under Article 19.
  • Introduced Article 43-B as a Directive Principle of State Policy, emphasizing the promotion of cooperatives.
  • Added Part IX-B to the Constitution (Articles 243-ZH to 243-ZT) to govern cooperative societies.
  • Empowered Parliament to regulate multi-state cooperatives while giving states authority over others.
• Union Ministry of Cooperation (2021)
  • Created to exclusively handle cooperative affairs, earlier managed by the Ministry of Agriculture.
• Multi-State Co-operative Societies (Amendment) Act, 2022
  • Strengthened regulations for multi-state cooperative societies.
  • Introduced a Co-operative Election Authority to oversee board elections.
  • Made government approval necessary for shareholding redemption by multi-state cooperatives.
  • Established a Co-operative Rehabilitation, Reconstruction, and Development Fund to assist struggling societies.
  • Allowed state cooperatives to merge into multi-state cooperatives, subject to state laws.

Notable Cooperatives in India

• Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS): Serve as the grassroots link between farmers and financing agencies like NABARD and commercial banks.
• AMUL (Anand Milk Union Limited): A leading dairy cooperative that played a key role in India’s White Revolution. Enabled India to become the largest global producer of milk.
• IFFCO (Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative): Among the world’s largest fertilizer cooperatives. Provides quality fertilizers and agricultural inputs to Indian farmers.

Conclusion

The Gelephu Mindfulness City showcases Bhutan’s forward-looking vision and its collaborative ties with India. By embracing cooperative values, the project seeks to establish an innovative, sustainable, and inclusive urban space. The partnership between India and Bhutan in such ventures reinforces regional cooperation and mutual prosperity.

MACE TELESCOPE IN LADAKH: A LEAP IN GAMMA-RAY ASTRONOMY

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) telescope, inaugurated on October 4 in Hanle, Ladakh, is a significant milestone in India’s space science and astrophysics journey. MACE is designed to study cosmic gamma rays and explore high-energy astrophysical phenomena.

Key Features of the MACE Telescope

Unique Design and Location

• The 21-meter-wide dish is Asia’s largest and the second-largest worldwide.
• Located at high altitude, it minimizes atmospheric disturbances.
• Operates without a protective dome, exposing mirrors to environmental conditions, with a silicon dioxide coating for durability.

State-of-the-Art Technology

• Equipped with 356 honeycomb-structured mirror panels for efficient light reflection. The design ensures stability and maximizes reflective area.
• Features a high-resolution camera with 1,088 photomultiplier tubes to amplify faint signals.
• Employs an altitude-azimuth mount, allowing vertical and horizontal sky observation.

Advanced Functionality

• Aims to study gamma rays with energy levels exceeding 20 billion electron volts (eV). Utilizes Cherenkov radiation to detect gamma rays indirectly.
• Tracks energetic cosmic phenomena like pulsars, blazars, and gamma-ray bursts.

Scientific Objectives

• Gamma-Ray Studies: Analyses gamma rays emitted by objects such as neutron stars, supernovae, and black holes. Examines gamma rays from beyond the Milky Way.
• Dark Matter Research: Investigates hypothetical particles like Weakly Interacting Massive Particles (WIMPs), believed to constitute dark matter. Explores gamma rays produced by WIMP collisions in galaxy clusters and galactic centres.
• Cosmic Understanding: Enhances knowledge of astrophysical events and high-energy particle interactions. Addresses fundamental questions about the nature of the universe.

Significance of MACE

• Technological Milestone: Most subsystems were indigenously developed, showcasing India’s technological progress.
• Global Contribution: Positions India at the forefront of gamma-ray and dark matter research. Opens avenues for groundbreaking discoveries in high-energy astrophysics and cosmology.

Conclusion

The MACE telescope is a testament to India’s growing capabilities in space science and astrophysics. Its advanced features and ambitious objectives make it a pivotal tool for understanding the mysteries of gamma rays, dark matter, and the universe. As the highest imaging Cherenkov telescope globally, MACE sets the stage for revolutionary research in high-energy astrophysics.

THE CONSENSUS REPUBLIC: LESSONS FROM THE CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS

November 26, 2024, marks the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Indian Constitution. The Constituent Assembly’s work offers valuable lessons for today’s Members of Parliament (MPs), showcasing a democratic and inclusive approach, can guide current parliamentarians to address modern challenges while upholding democratic values.

Significance of the Constituent Assembly

• Diverse Representation: Members hailed from varied social, political, and ideological backgrounds. The Assembly accommodated differing opinions while respecting mutual values.
• Democratic Debate: Discussions were marked by sincerity, conviction, and respect for diverse perspectives. Even disagreements enriched the process, avoiding personal attacks on values or motivations.

Role of Dissent in the Constituent Assembly

• Recognition of Contrasting Voices: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar appreciated dissenting members like Kamath, Deshmukh, and others for their contributions to enriching debates. Their challenges allowed the principles of the Constitution to be better articulated and understood.
• Constructive Engagement: Differences were seen as opportunities for dialogue, not division.

Parliamentary Democracy: Declining Trends

• Reduced Sittings and Discussions:
  • Before 1990: Each Lok Sabha convened for 550 days across 3,500 hours.
  • Post-1990: This dropped to 345 days over 1,800 hours.
  • The 17th Lok Sabha had the fewest sittings (274 days in five years).
• Declining Legislative Review:
  • Bills referred to Parliamentary Committees reduced from 71% in the 15th Lok Sabha to 16% in the 17th.
  • Many bills are now passed with minimal or no debate.
• Budget Discussions:
  • Time spent on the Union Budget declined from 120 hours (pre-1990) to just 35 hours (post-1990).
  • In recent years, budgets have been passed without any debate.

Lessons for Today’s Parliamentarians

• Promote Democratic Engagement: MPs should emulate the Assembly’s inclusive discussions on complex issues. They must respect differing views and avoid rigid party-driven decision-making.

• Focus on Nation-Building: Parliament should prioritize issues like poverty, inequality, education, and healthcare, similar to the Assembly’s focus on critical challenges.
• Strengthen Parliamentary Practices: Increase legislative review through committee referrals. Ensure adequate time for debates and discussions on bills and budgets.
• Foster Pluralism: Encourage diverse opinions within and across political lines to promote consensus-building.

Conclusion

Today’s parliamentarians must draw inspiration from their legacy to strengthen democratic institutions and address modern challenges effectively. By upholding the values of inclusivity, respect, and consensus, India’s democracy can remain robust and visionary for the future.

INDIA TO LAUNCH EUROPEAN SOLAR MISSION PROBA-3

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Proba-3 mission on December 4, 2024, aboard its PSLV rocket. This mission will study the solar corona, the outermost and hottest part of the Sun’s atmosphere.

What is Proba-3?

• Proba-3 is part of ESA’s Proba series of solar missions, with previous missions, Proba-1 and Proba-2, launched in 2001 and 2009, respectively.
• This mission is developed at an estimated cost of 200 million euros and is expected to last for two years. It involves two satellites flying in close proximity, working together as a single unit to create a solar coronagraph.
• This will allow scientists to observe the Sun’s corona, which is typically hidden by the Sun’s intense light.
• Proba-3 will be launched into an elliptical orbit (600 x 60,530 km), with a 19.7-hour orbital period. The two satellites will fly in tandem, maintaining a precise formation to observe the corona and its surrounding space.

Scientific Objectives of Proba-3

• The primary goal of Proba-3 is to study the Sun’s corona, which is difficult to observe due to its extreme temperatures (up to 2 million degrees Fahrenheit).
• The corona is responsible for space weather phenomena like solar winds and solar storms, which can affect satellite communications, navigation, and power grids on Earth.

To achieve this, Proba-3 is equipped with three key instruments:

• ASPIICS (Coronagraph): This instrument blocks the Sun’s bright light to reveal the corona and objects around it. The coronagraph features a 1.4-meter occulting disk, enabling detailed images of the corona.
• DARA (Digital Absolute Radiometer): DARA will continuously measure the total solar irradiance, or the Sun’s total energy output.
• 3DEES (3D Energetic Electron Spectrometer): This instrument will measure energetic electron fluxes and provide data on space weather, crucial for understanding solar activity.

Unique Features of Proba-3

• Proba-3’s biggest innovation is its use of precision formation flying.
• The two satellites—Occulter (200 kg) and Coronagraph (340 kg)—will remain at a fixed distance (150 meters apart) while continuously facing the Sun.
• This arrangement will simulate a solar eclipse, allowing scientists to study the Sun’s corona for up to six hours at a time, far longer than natural eclipses, which last only a few minutes.

Potential Benefits for India

• Technological Advancements: Proba-3’s successful launch will reinforce ISRO’s capabilities in executing complex space missions, showcasing India’s growing space expertise.
• Scientific Collaboration: Indian scientists have contributed to the mission’s scientific objectives. India’s solar physics community will benefit from exclusive access to Proba-3’s data and explore collaborations with ESA, enhancing India’s space research.

Conclusion

The Proba-3 mission is a significant step forward in solar research and space exploration. It will provide valuable insights into space weather and its impacts on Earth, showcasing ISRO’s technological prowess and fostering international scientific collaboration.

WHY INDIA’S TRADE DEFICIT REFLECTS STRENGTH, NOT WEAKNESS

TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN ECONOMY: INDIAN EXPRESS

India’s persistent trade deficit, where the country imports more goods than it exports, is often viewed negatively as a sign of weakness in Indian manufacturing. However, this perspective overlooks India’s growing strengths in services and its attractiveness as an investment destination.

Trade Deficit and its Relation to Services

• Trade Deficit and Economic Strength: The trade deficit reflects India’s strength in the services sector and its appeal to global investors.
• Services Export Advantage: India has a competitive edge in services, such as IT and business services, making it a net exporter of services.
• Manufacturing Growth: India’s manufacturing sector needs to be driven by domestic demand rather than solely by exports for faster growth.

Foreign Investment and Current Account Deficit

• Link between Foreign Investment and Trade Deficit: Foreign investment leads to capital inflows, which are matched by a current account deficit (outflows of funds). This is a natural balance for any country that attracts foreign capital.
• Capital Account vs. Current Account: A net inflow of foreign funds leads to a current account deficit or an accumulation of foreign exchange reserves.
• Economic Reality: The inflow of capital into India corresponds directly to the sum of the current account deficit and reserve accumulation.

Reserves and their Role

• Importance of Reserves: India maintains reserves to cushion against economic shocks, such as sudden oil price hikes, which can lead to higher import costs.
• Cost of Holding Reserves: Reserves come with a cost, as India borrows from foreigners and uses part of this capital to build reserves, often paying higher returns to foreign investors than the country earns on its reserves.
• Efficient Reserve Management: India keeps adequate reserves for emergencies but avoids over-accumulating, ensuring capital inflows balance the current account deficit.

Goods Deficit and India’s Manufacturing Sector

• Focus on Goods and Services: Despite being a net importer of goods, India exports goods where it has comparative advantage (e.g., pharmaceuticals, automobiles, auto components).
• Comparative Advantage: India’s advantage in services and specific goods explains the current trade balance. Exports of services and certain goods support the current account deficit.
• Economic Theory: India’s relative strength in services does not mean its manufacturing is inefficient, but reflects its advantage in service-based exports over some other countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh.

Reasons for a Trade Deficit

• Higher Demand for Imported Goods: A country may have a higher demand for foreign goods and services due to limited domestic production or consumer preferences for better-quality or cheaper foreign products. For example, India imports significant amounts of oil, electronics, and machinery due to insufficient domestic production.
• Increased Foreign Investment: A trade deficit can be linked to increased foreign investment. When foreign investors buy assets or invest in the country, they bring in capital, but the country may need to spend more on imports to meet the demand for foreign goods. This inflow of capital into the country often results in a corresponding outflow of funds for imports.
• Stronger Domestic Currency: A stronger national currency makes imports cheaper for domestic consumers and businesses. As a result, people may prefer to purchase foreign goods, leading to an increase in imports, which can outpace exports and create a trade deficit.

Conclusion

India’s trade deficit is not a sign of economic weakness but a result of strategic foreign investments and its strength in services. While manufacturing exports are growing, a shift towards stronger domestic demand is key to fostering faster manufacturing growth. The current account deficit will remain as long as India attracts foreign capital and exports services more effectively.