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27-January-2025-Daily-Current-Affairs

January 27 @ 7:00 am - 11:30 pm

INDIA’S SPACE PROGRAMME IN 2025

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

India’s space programme has started 2025 with groundbreaking achievements, showcasing advancements in space exploration, collaborations with private players, and preparations for future missions like human spaceflight and Chandrayaan-4.

Key Highlights of India’s Space Advancements

PSLV-C60 Mission and SpaDeX Experiment

  • On December 30, 2024, PSLV-C60 launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), carrying the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX).
  • Two satellites were deployed into a 475-km orbit to prepare for docking, scheduled for January 7, 2025.
  • Initial attempts faced issues, such as unexpected satellite drift, requiring ISRO to adjust inter-satellite distances.
  • On January 16, 2025, India achieved its first successful in-orbit rendezvous and docking, a key milestone for future lunar and space-station missions.

POEM4 Mission

  • After deploying SpaDeX, the PSLV’s fourth stage initiated the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM4) phase.
  • POEM4 carried 24 payloads, including contributions from ISRO, academic institutions, and private companies.
  • This phase focused on research in robotics, propulsion systems, and plant studies, using the fourth stage as an experimental platform.

Leadership Transition at ISRO

  • On January 14, 2025, V. Narayanan assumed the role of ISRO Chairman, succeeding S. Somanath.
  • Narayanan, with expertise in cryogenic and semi-cryogenic engines, was instrumental in investigating the Chandrayaan-2 landing failure.
  • His leadership marks a pivotal moment as ISRO advances human spaceflight and next-generation launch vehicles.

Indian Contributions to SpaceX’s Transporter 12 Mission

  • On January 15, 2025, three Indian private companies launched payloads aboard SpaceX’s Transporter 12 mission:
  • Pixxel Space: Launched three hyperspectral satellites.
  • Digantara: Deployed a satellite for space situational awareness.
  • XDLINX Labs: Delivered a compact communications satellite for Almagest Space Corporation

Infrastructure and Technological Progress

  • The government approved ₹3,984.86 crore for building a third launch pad at SDSC, expected to be operational by 2029.
  • ISRO successfully tested the Vikas engine’s restart capability, crucial for atmospheric operations.
  • Data from the Aditya-L1 solar mission was released, highlighting India’s growing expertise in solar studies.

Conclusion:

India’s recent space achievements underscore its commitment to advancing scientific research, fostering private-sector collaboration, and paving the way for ambitious missions like human spaceflight. These efforts reflect India’s growing influence in global space exploration.

REFORMING INDIA’S TAX SYSTEM: A CRITICAL NEED

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

India’s tax system, characterized by its complexity and high rates, is a barrier to economic progress and investment. A reimagined fiscal approach is essential to shift the focus from revenue generation to promoting growth.

Learning from Historical Tax Practices

Retrospective Taxation:

  • Retrospective amendments harm India’s image as a reliable investment destination.
  • Cases like Vodafone and recent GST changes highlight the need to uphold judicial rulings.
  • Using retrospective laws to overturn court decisions erodes trust and investor confidence.

Legacy of High Taxation:

  • The high-tax regime from 1950 to 1990 stifled economic activity.
  • The liberalization of 1991 demonstrated the benefits of streamlined, pro-growth tax reforms.

Issues with the Current GST Regime

  • Overemphasis on Revenue Collection: A disproportionate focus on tax collection fuels exaggerated claims of evasion. The system lacks significant efforts to simplify tax rates or enhance transparency.
  • Limited Input Tax Credit (ITC): Denial of ITC for various goods and services strains industries, particularly real estate. GST on lease agreements and joint development rights burdens businesses unnecessarily.
  • High Tax Rates and Complexity: Elevated GST rates reduce demand and competitiveness. Multiple rate structures, such as for hotels, restaurants, and construction materials, add confusion.

Impact of the Current Tax Framework

  • Economic Decline: High taxes reduce consumption and slow down revenue growth. Increased imports from China and a shrinking manufacturing sector reflect systemic issues.
  • Deterrent to Investment: Complex tax policies discourage new investments, exacerbating economic challenges.

Recommendations for Reform

  • Simplification of Tax Structures: Implement uniform GST rates, such as 12% for hotels and 18% for essential materials like cement, to boost affordability and compliance.
  • Growth-Centric Policies: Align tax policies with long-term growth objectives to support industries and infrastructure.
  • Commitment to Judicial Integrity: Avoid retrospective amendments to strengthen the rule of law and investor trust.
  • Data-Driven Policy Making: Conduct empirical studies to assess how tax changes impact consumption, competitiveness, and growth.

Path Ahead

  • Strategic Fiscal Planning: Develop a long-term fiscal strategy for 2025–2030 to achieve sustainable economic growth of 9–10%.
  • Reforms for Growth: Prioritize structural tax reforms to create a business-friendly and growth-oriented economy.

Conclusion:

Transforming India’s tax system is imperative for fostering economic growth, enhancing investor confidence, and ensuring fairness. A simplified, growth-driven framework can unlock the country’s potential for long-term development.

SHOULD GOVERNORS HEAD STATE UNIVERSITIES?

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

The Governor’s role as the Chancellor of State universities has sparked debates on its impact on university autonomy and governance. This colonial legacy often leads to political interference, undermining academic freedom and efficient administration.

Origin of the Governor’s Role as Chancellor

A Colonial Legacy

  • The practice began during British rule, aimed at controlling universities rather than promoting autonomy.
  • In 1857, Governors of Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras presidencies became ex-officio Chancellors of newly established universities.
  • Post-Independence, the system continued without reassessment and is now governed by State university laws rather than the Constitution.

Politicisation of the Governor’s Role

From Ceremonial to Political

  • Initially, Governors served ceremonial roles under the dominance of the Congress party from 1947 to 1967.
  • After 1967, as opposition parties gained power in States, Governors started influencing university governance, causing frequent clashes.
  • Many Governors were appointed based on political loyalty, diminishing the credibility of the role.
  • Commissions like the Administrative Reforms Commission (1966–77) and the Sarkaria Commission (1983-88) criticized this trend.

Challenges in the Current System

Confusion and Conflicts

  • Governors have substantial authority over State universities despite these being funded by State governments.
  • Delays in appointing Vice-Chancellors and other administrative matters impact university operations.
  • Many Governors lack academic expertise, making decisions based on limited advice.
  • Political interference often aligns universities with central agendas, disregarding their specific needs.
  • This system weakens federalism by placing State universities under control of centrally appointed Governors.

Recommendations for Reform

Insights from Commissions

  • The Rajamannar Committee and Sarkaria Commission recommended Governors consult Chief Ministers but maintain independent judgment.
  • The M.M. Punchhi Commission advised Governors to limit their role to constitutional duties, excluding statutory functions like Chancellor.
  • The National Commission to Review the Constitution emphasized university autonomy and clearer roles for Chancellors.

Alternative Models

Reducing the Governor’s Role

  • Some States, like Gujarat and Karnataka, have reduced the Governor’s role to a ceremonial one.
  • Proposals for appointing Chancellors from academia or public life aim to ensure independence and prevent political interference.
  • Several States have proposed Bills to reform this system, but many await Presidential assent.

Conclusion:
The Governor’s role as Chancellor, rooted in colonial practices, requires reform to foster university autonomy and academic excellence. Adopting a neutral, academic-oriented leadership model will reduce political interference and strengthen governance.

Mains Practice Question:

  1. Examine the importance of India’s milestones in space exploration, focusing on their role in driving technological advancements, fostering international partnerships, and supporting the country’s strategic goals. (150 Words/10 marks)

AN ENDURING COMMITMENT TO THE INDO-PACIFIC

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

The Indo-Pacific region has become a key focus of U.S. foreign policy, especially with the renewed emphasis on countering China’s growing influence. The Quad alliance plays a pivotal role in fostering security, economic growth, and regional stability.

Context: Renewed U.S. Focus on the Indo-Pacific

Trump’s Return and Geopolitical Impact

  • Donald Trump’s second term as U.S. President marks a renewed commitment to the Indo-Pacific.
  • His inauguration emphasized the region’s strategic importance, with participation from India, Japan, and Australia.
  • A stronger Quad alliance is central to his administration’s Indo-Pacific strategy.

Indo-Pacific During Trump’s First Term

Adoption of the Term ‘Indo-Pacific’

  • Trump replaced the term ‘Asia-Pacific’ with ‘Indo-Pacific’ to highlight the region’s broader geopolitical scope.
  • The approach prioritized securing sea lines, tackling maritime challenges, and curbing China’s influence.
  • It integrated defense, security, and economic goals, underscoring the Indian Ocean’s strategic relevance.

Revitalization of the Quad

  • The Trump administration revived the Quad and elevated its dialogue to the ministerial level.
  • Focus areas included maritime security, supply chain resilience, and technological collaboration.

The Quad: Key Features

Strategic Partnership

  • Members: Australia, India, Japan, and the United States.
  • Aim: Promote a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
  • Areas of focus: Maritime security and counter-terrorism. Infrastructure development and humanitarian assistance. Supply chain and vaccine partnerships.
  • Regular meetings and initiatives, such as the Quad Vaccine Partnership, have strengthened regional cooperation.

Biden’s Indo-Pacific Strategy

Continuity and Expansion

  • Biden maintained the Indo-Pacific’s priority, convening the first Quad leaders’ summit in 2021.
  • His administration expanded the agenda to include vaccines, climate action, and infrastructure.
  • The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework was introduced to strengthen regional economic engagement.

Prospects Under Trump’s Second Term

Strengthened Regional Engagement

  • The Trump administration plans to enhance security and economic frameworks.
  • Bilateral and multilateral engagements, such as Quad summits, will focus on maritime and technological security.
  • The emphasis will remain on countering China and maintaining a rules-based international order.

Conclusion:

The Indo-Pacific will continue to dominate U.S. foreign policy under Trump’s leadership. Strengthened Quad cooperation will play a crucial role in addressing regional challenges, ensuring security, and countering China’s influence.

Mains Practice Question:

  1. Analyse how the Governor’s position as Chancellor of State universities affects academic freedom and state autonomy. Suggest reforms to overcome the challenges linked to this framework. (150 words / 10 marks)

TRUMP’S GREENLAND GAMBIT: A GEOPOLITICAL STRATEGY TO COUNTER CHINA

TOPIC: (GS2) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

Former US President Donald Trump’s interest in buying Greenland reflects America’s focus on the Arctic as a strategic region. This move highlights concerns over China’s growing influence and the importance of Greenland’s resources and location.

US Interest in Greenland

Historical Background

  • The US has pursued Greenland since World War II for its strategic Arctic position.
  • In 1946, the US offered to buy Greenland to counter the Soviet Union, but Denmark declined.
  • Later agreements allowed the US to set up military bases on the island, reinforcing its importance.

Strategic and Economic Importance of Greenland

Key Geopolitical Significance

  • Greenland is near emerging Arctic shipping lanes, making it a strategic location.
  • It is rich in critical resources, including rare earth minerals essential for renewable energy and defense technologies.
  • Currently, these minerals are heavily controlled by China, making Greenland’s reserves crucial for reducing dependency on Chinese supply chains.

China’s Role in Greenland

Growing Chinese Presence

  • China has invested in Greenland’s mining sector, infrastructure, and the “Polar Silk Road” initiative.
  • This presence is viewed by the US as a threat to Arctic security and global resource supply chains.
  • Trump’s Greenland proposal was partly a response to counter China’s expanding influence.

Diplomatic Tensions with Denmark

Danish Resistance

  • Denmark oversees Greenland’s foreign policy and rejected Trump’s proposal, emphasizing Greenland’s autonomy.
  • Trump’s confrontational stance, including tariff threats, strained US-Denmark relations, complicating negotiations.
  • Denmark asserts that Greenland’s future depends on the choices of its residents.

About Greenland

  • Location: Largest island in the world, situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, under Danish jurisdiction.
  • Geography: Notable features include the Watkins Range, Stauning Alps, and rivers like Borglum and Majorqaq.
  • Resources: A long history of mining coal, gold, silver, copper, and rare earth minerals, which are critical for modern technologies.

Conclusion:

Greenland’s strategic location and resource wealth make it a key geopolitical asset in the Arctic. While Trump’s proposal reflects America’s goal to counter China, the aggressive approach risks harming diplomatic ties. Greenland’s future depends on balancing its autonomy with global interests in the region.

EVOLUTION OF DINOSAURS

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

The discovery of the dinosaur species Mbiresaurus raathi in Zimbabwe offers valuable insights into the early evolution of dinosaurs. Fossils of this species date back to the Late Triassic period, around 230 million years ago.

Discovery of Mbiresaurus raathi

Details of the Discovery

  • The fossils were unearthed in 2019 in northern Zimbabwe.
  • This species is among the oldest-known dinosaurs, providing critical information on the early stages of dinosaur evolution.

Characteristics of Mbiresaurus raathi

Physical Traits

  • Size: The dinosaur was approximately 1 meter tall and weighed around 30 kilograms.
  • Tail: It had a long tail, a common feature in early dinosaur species.
  • Structure: The fossils suggest a slender build suited for mobility.

Habitat and Era

Living Conditions

  • Mbiresaurus lived in a hot, dry environment, likely characterized by seasonal wildfires.
  • It roamed the Earth during the Late Triassic period, about 230 million years ago.

Significance of the Discovery

Key Insights

  • Evolution: The discovery helps trace the timeline of dinosaur evolution, shedding light on their origins and adaptations.
  • Ancient Ecosystems: Fossils of Mbiresaurus raathi reveal details about the climatic and ecological conditions of the Triassic period.
  • Scientific Contribution: It broadens the understanding of the spread and diversity of early dinosaurs.

Conclusion:

The discovery of Mbiresaurus raathi is a significant milestone in palaeontology. It not only highlights the diversity of early dinosaurs but also provides a window into their ancient ecosystems, helping us understand how these creatures adapted and thrived millions of years ago.

WHIP SYSTEM IN PARLIAMENTARY DEMOCRACY

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The whip system is a key mechanism in parliamentary functioning, ensuring party discipline and maintaining cohesion on critical issues. Recent debates have highlighted concerns over its impact on individual freedom of expression among MPs.

About the Whip System

Role and Purpose

  • Whips ensure party discipline by aligning MPs with the party’s stance during important votes.
  • Non-compliance with a whip can lead to consequences like expulsion or disqualification.

Origin and Evolution

Etymology of “Whip”

  • The term originates from the hunting practice in England, where a “whipper-in” kept hounds in order.
  • Edmund Burke popularized the term in a political context, describing efforts to align party members.

Adoption in India

  • The whip system was introduced during India’s parliamentary formation to ensure party discipline.
  • Violating a whip, especially a strict three-line whip, can lead to disqualification under the Anti-Defection Law (1985).

Types of Whips

Classification of Whips

  • One-line whip: Informs members about a vote and allows abstention.
  • Two-line whip: Requests members’ presence and offers voting discretion.
  • Three-line whip: Mandates attendance and voting strictly as per party directions.

Functioning and Enforcement

  • The chief whip issues directives to MPs, ensuring attendance and adherence to party positions.
  • The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs oversees the system, coordinating compliance among ruling coalition members.

Importance of the Whip System

  • It ensures stability in parliamentary proceedings and strengthens party cohesion.
  • MPs elected on a party ticket are expected to uphold the party’s ideology or resign.
  • The All-India Whips Conference, established in 1952, serves as a platform for discussing challenges and strategies related to the whip system.

Conclusion:

The whip system is an integral part of parliamentary democracy, balancing party discipline with governance needs. However, debates around its impact on individual freedoms call for nuanced discussions on reforming its implementation.

GUILLAIN-BARRÉ SYNDROME (GBS)

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOGY: THE HINDU

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare autoimmune disorder affecting the peripheral nervous system, causing muscle weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis. The condition has recently seen a rise in cases in Pune, with over 100 reported instances.

Key Features of Guillain-Barré Syndrome

What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

  • GBS is a severe autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system.
  • It often begins with weakness, tingling, or numbness in the limbs, which can lead to paralysis.
  • Recovery can take 6 to 12 months or longer, depending on the severity.

Impact on the Nervous System

  • The disorder affects nerves responsible for muscle movement and sensory functions, including pain, temperature, and touch.
  • It is more common in adults and males but can occur at any age.

Causes and Risk Factors

  • Infections: As per the World Health Organization (WHO), GBS is often preceded by bacterial or viral infections. These infections trigger an immune response, which mistakenly targets the body’s nerves.
  • Vaccinations and Surgeries: Rarely, GBS can develop after vaccinations or surgical procedures, but the risk is extremely low.
  • Studies indicate that the risk of GBS from infections like influenza is much higher than from vaccines.:
  • Unknown Cause: The exact cause of GBS remains unknown, but immune system dysfunction plays a critical role.

Medical Interventions

  • Plasmapheresis: A procedure where plasma is removed from the blood and replaced with other fluids to reduce harmful antibodies.
  • Immunoglobulin Therapy: Administering high doses of immunoglobulin can help block harmful antibodies and reduce nerve damage.
  • Supportive Care: Treatment often involves hospitalization for monitoring and managing complications like breathing difficulties or heart problems.

Conclusion:

Guillain-Barré Syndrome, while rare, is a serious condition requiring prompt medical attention. Public awareness about its causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential to address rising cases and ensure effective management.

Prelims Question:

  1. What is the most common trigger for Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), according to the World Health Organization (WHO)?
  2. Genetic predisposition
  3. Bacterial or viral infections
  4. Exposure to environmental toxins
  5. Autoimmune disorders unrelated to infections

Answer: B

Explanation:

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is often triggered by bacterial or viral infections. These infections stimulate an immune response that, in some cases, mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis. While other factors like vaccinations and surgeries may rarely contribute to the condition, infections remain the most common and significant trigger.

Details

Date:
January 27
Time:
7:00 am - 11:30 pm
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