27-November-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

FROM A REPUBLIC TO A REPUBLIC OF UNEQUAL

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

India marked 75 years of its Constitution on November 26, 2024, which was designed to ensure justice, equality, and liberty while addressing socio-economic inequalities. However, neoliberal economic policies have replaced welfare governance, widening the gap between the rich and poor. This threatens the Constitution’s vision of an egalitarian society.

Constitutional Vision of Equality

• Focus on Inclusivity: The Constitution-makers adopted a liberal framework but emphasized state intervention to reduce socio-economic inequalities. They believed liberty should coexist with policies to empower disadvantaged groups.
• Affirmative Action: Policies like reservations were introduced to create opportunities for historically marginalized communities. Articles 38(2) and 39(c) mandate reducing income inequalities and preventing wealth concentration.
• Judicial Support: Cases like S. Nakara (1982) and Samatha vs State of Andhra Pradesh (1997) upheld the principles of socialism and state intervention to ensure economic and social justice.

Impact of Neoliberal Reforms

• Economic Liberalization of the 1990s: Structural reforms prioritized private investment, reducing the role of the welfare state. This shift led to increased inequality, with the top 1% owning 22.6% of national income by 2022-23, exceeding colonial-era levels.
• Rising Income Inequality: The State of Inequality in India Report (2022) highlighted that while the top 10% earn over ₹25,000 monthly, the remaining 90% earn significantly less, showing extreme disparities.

Overlap of Social and Economic Inequality

• Caste-Based Wealth Disparities: The World Inequality Lab (2024) revealed that 90% of billionaire wealth is held by upper castes, while Scheduled Tribes have no representation. Between 2014 and 2022, the wealth share of OBCs fell from 20% to 10%, while upper castes increased their dominance.
• Deepening Inequalities: Social hierarchies reinforce economic disparities, defying the constitutional goal of equitable opportunities for all.

Threat to Egalitarianism

• Rise of Billionaires: Oxfam International reported a sharp increase in billionaires, from 9 in 2000 to 119 in 2023, widening wealth gaps.
• Decline of Welfare State: The focus has shifted from redistribution of resources to market-driven growth, undermining constitutional ideals.

REPUBLIC

India is a republic because it has a system of governance where the head of state is elected rather than a hereditary monarch. The Constitution, adopted on January 26, 1950, established India as a sovereign, democratic, and republic nation, where the President, elected by representatives of the people, serves as the constitutional head. In a republic, the supreme power lies with the people and their elected representatives, ensuring equality, justice, and the rule of law.

Conclusion

India’s constitutional vision aimed to create an egalitarian society by reducing inequalities. However, neoliberal policies have widened wealth and social disparities. To uphold the ideals of equality and justice, a renewed commitment to welfare policies and resource redistribution is essential. Without addressing these challenges, as Dr. Ambedkar cautioned, economic and social inequalities could jeopardize India’s democracy.

SUPREME COURT VERDICT ON AMENDMENTS TO THE PREAMBLE

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

The Supreme Court has reaffirmed the inclusion of the word’s “secular” and “socialist” in the Preamble to the Constitution, rejecting attempts to challenge their validity. The judgment underscores their importance in safeguarding the nation’s democratic and constitutional ideals.

Key Highlights

Historical Context of Amendments

• These terms, added during the 42nd Amendment in 1976, reflect India’s core values of equality, justice, and inclusivity.

• Originally, the Preamble did not include the terms “secular” and “socialist.”
• These were introduced during the Emergency (1975-77) under the 42nd Amendment, sparking debates on their validity due to the circumstances under which they were added.

Secularism as a Constitutional Principle

• In the S.R. Bommai case (1994), secularism was declared a basic feature of the Constitution.
• Secularism ensures equal treatment of all religions and non-discrimination based on faith.

• India’s Secularism: The Court highlighted that India’s version of secularism ensures the State neither supports nor opposes any religion while protecting religious freedoms.

Socialism in Economic Policies

• The term “socialist” represents economic and social justice to reduce inequalities.
• Its inclusion has not obstructed economic reforms or market liberalization in the country.

Verdict Implications

• The Court upheld that the inclusion of these terms reflects India’s evolving constitutional and democratic principles.
• It dismissed arguments against the amendments based on the Emergency context, stating that these were debated in the 44th Amendment in 1978.

PREAMBLE OF THE INDIAN CONSTITUTION

Philosophical Foundation:

• The Preamble serves as the introduction to the Constitution, reflecting its ideals and objectives.
• It highlights key principles like justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, aimed at creating a democratic and inclusive society.

Source of Authority:

• It declares that the people of India are the ultimate source of the Constitution’s authority.
• The words “We, the people of India” emphasize the sovereignty of citizens in framing and adopting the Constitution.

Amended Once:

• The Preamble was amended only once through the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act (1976) during the
• added the words “secular,” “socialist,” and “integrity” to better define India’s democratic and inclusive framework.

Facts About Amending the Preamble

Judicial Clarity

• The Supreme Court in the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973) ruled that the Preamble is a part of the Constitution.
• It can be amended under Article 368, provided the basic structure doctrine is not violated.

The 42nd Amendment:

• The only amendment to the Preamble, enacted in 1976, added the terms “secular,” “socialist,” and “integrity.”
• The inclusion was aimed at emphasizing India’s commitment to religious neutrality, economic justice, and national unity.

Limitations on Amending Power:

• Any amendment to the Preamble must align with the basic structure of the Constitution, which includes principles like secularism, democracy, and rule of law.
• The judiciary ensures amendments do not dilute these foundational values.

Conclusion

As the Constitution marks 75 years, the judgment reaffirms the fundamental values of secularism and socialism, ensuring India remains committed to equality, justice, and inclusivity.

HIMALAYAN GLACIAL LAKE EXPANSION

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) recently raised concerns about the alarming increase in the size of glacial lakes in the Himalayan region. The issue, linked to climate change and rising global temperatures, poses significant risks of natural disasters such as floods and landslides.

Key Details

• NGT’s Notice: The NGT issued notices to the Central government and relevant authorities. It acted on its own initiative (Suo motu) based on a news report detailing the expansion of glacial lakes.
• Increase in Glacial Lakes: The size of Himalayan glacial lakes has grown by 81% over the last 13 years, primarily due to rising temperatures. Melting glaciers are creating larger lakes that store increased volumes of water.
• Risks and Concerns: Larger glacial lakes heighten the chances of natural disasters such as glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), landslides, and river flooding. Such disasters pose serious threats to life, infrastructure, and ecosystems in the Himalayan region and downstream areas.

NGT Directions:

• The NGT directed the respondents to submit their responses at least one week before the next hearing.
• The tribunal aims to assess the risks and recommend appropriate measures to mitigate potential disasters.

NATIONAL GREEN TRIBUNAL (NGT)

The National Green Tribunal was established in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010.

It is dedicated to handling cases related to environmental protection and conservation of natural resources.

Objective:

• To provide a specialized judicial platform for resolving environmental disputes quickly.
• It ensures the enforcement of environmental laws, including compensation for damages caused by environmental degradation.

Jurisdiction:

• NGT has original jurisdiction on civil cases involving substantial questions of the environment and enforcement of legal rights related to the environment.
• Covers matters under laws like the Environment Protection Act, 1986, Water Act, 1974, Air Act, 1981, and others.

Composition:

• The tribunal comprises a chairperson and judicial as well as expert members.
• The Chairperson is typically a former judge of the Supreme Court or High Court.

Speedy Disposal:

• NGT is known for fast-tracking environmental cases, with a mandate to dispose of cases within six months of filing.

Powers:

• It has the authority of a civil court and can summon individuals, enforce attendance, and request documents.
• Can provide relief and compensation for damages to persons and property.

Headquarters:

• NGT’s principal bench is located in New Delhi, with regional benches in Pune, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bhopal.

Conclusion

The expansion of Himalayan glacial lakes underscores the pressing need to address climate change impacts. This initiative by the NGT highlights the importance of proactive monitoring and disaster preparedness.

PAN 2.0: UPGRADING INDIA’S IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM

TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The Union Cabinet recently approved the PAN 2.0 Project, marking a significant step in modernizing India’s Permanent Account Number (PAN) system. This upgrade aims to improve data protection, ease business operations, and enhance integration across financial systems.

Key Features of PAN 2.0

• Enhanced Functionality: The PAN will integrate with existing identification systems like TAN (Tax Deduction Account Number) and TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number). It will be a common business identifier for various government agencies.
• QR Code Integration: All PAN cards, both new and existing, will include a QR code. This feature strengthens financial transaction linkage with tax systems.
• Digital Transformation: The system will shift to a completely online, paperless application process. A revamped IT backbone will enable better efficiency and user experience.
• Data Vault System: A mandatory data vault will ensure secure handling of PAN-related information by entities like banks and insurance companies This feature aims to enhance cybersecurity and data protection.

Implications for Individuals and Businesses

• For Individuals: Current PAN holders (approximately 78 crores) can upgrade their cards for free. PAN numbers will remain the same, with the addition of the QR code.
• For Businesses: A seamless identification system will simplify filing tax returns and challans Unified PAN will reduce duplication of numbers like TAN and TIN.

Conclusion

The PAN 2.0 Project represents a transformative move to enhance India’s financial and tax infrastructure. By integrating advanced features and ensuring data security, it aims to simplify processes for individuals and businesses while strengthening the tax ecosystem.

INDIAN SPACE PROGRAMME: UPDATES AND DEVELOPMENTS

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

India’s space programme, initiated in 1963 with the launch of the Nike-Apache rocket from Thumba, Kerala, has evolved into a globally recognized endeavour. As the programme celebrates its 61st anniversary, advancements in public and private sector space activities underscore India’s growing capabilities in space science, satellite launches, and international collaborations.

Key Developments in Space Science

Launch of GSAT-N2/GSAT-20:

• New Space India Ltd. (NSIL) launched the 4,700-kg GSAT-N2 communication satellite using SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from Florida.
• The satellite, designed to enhance broadband services in remote areas, supports initiatives like in-flight internet and the Smart Cities Mission.
• It was launched from Florida as its weight exceeded the capacity of India’s LVM-3 rocket.

Upcoming ISRO Missions:

• PSLV-C59 Mission: Scheduled for December 4, 2024, it will launch the twin Proba-3 spacecraft to study the Sun.
• Training of Indian Astronauts: Shubhanshu Shukla, India’s astronaut-designate for the International Space Station (ISS) in 2025, is training at the European Space Agency.

Private Sector Contributions

Pixxel’s Fireflies:

• Pixxel plans to launch six hyperspectral satellites early next year, forming the first batch of a 24-satellite constellation.
• These satellites will aid in detecting crop diseases, tracking deforestation, and monitoring ocean pollution.

PierSight Space and HEX20:

• PierSight Space: Launching its ‘Varuna’ mission to test advanced antenna and radar technology onboard PSLV’s POEM platform.
• HEX20’s Nila Satellite: A 5-kg CubeSat is scheduled for launch on SpaceX’s Transporter 13 mission in 2025.

• AAKA Space Studio: Conducted India’s first Space Analog Mission in Ladakh to simulate conditions on the Moon and Mars.
• SatSure’s Rural Mapping Programme: Collaborating with the Indian government to use satellite and drone data to map over two lakh villages under the ‘Svamvita’ programme.

Space Science Advancements

• Aditya-L1 Scientific Findings: The Visible Emission Line Coronagraph aboard Aditya-L1 accurately predicted a coronal mass ejection impacting satellites and communication systems.
• Bhartiya Antariksh Station: Departments of Space and Biotechnology are collaborating for biological experiments onboard India’s future space station.
• Square Kilometre Array Observatory: India became a full member of the SKAO, contributing to building advanced radio telescopes in Australia and South Africa.

Conclusion

India’s advancements in both public and private space initiatives highlight its commitment to leveraging space technology for development and global collaboration. These efforts not only enhance national capabilities but also solidify India’s position as a key player in the global space community.

DISMANTLING OF CLIMATE TALKS

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: INDIAN EXPRESS

The COP29 climate summit held in Baku highlighted the continuing disappointments in climate negotiations, especially regarding finance. This shift primarily stems from the failure of developed nations to meet the financial and emission reduction targets necessary to address global climate challenges.

The Outcome of COP29

• Climate Finance Shortfall: Developed countries agreed to mobilize only $300 billion annually for climate finance by 2035, a modest increase from the previous $100 billion target. However, this amount is far below the required $1 trillion, making it insufficient for addressing the climate crisis.
• Lack of Immediate Action: The agreed increase in climate finance will only be realized by 2035, which delays the urgent action needed to curb global warming and mitigate its effects.

The Evolution of International Climate Agreements

• Disappointment Over the Years: Since the 2015 Paris Agreement, each COP meeting has delivered unsatisfactory outcomes, with the promised emission reductions falling far behind what scientific studies indicate is needed.
• The Paris Agreement’s Shortcomings: Under the Paris Agreement, developed countries were supposed to cut emissions significantly. However, emissions have continued to rise, with countries like the US and EU failing to meet the targets needed to limit global warming to 1.5°C.

Unstable Climate Framework

• Inequity in the System: The international climate framework, led by the UNFCCC, places the responsibility for emissions cuts and financial contributions largely on developed countries, which have historically contributed the most to global emissions.
• Kyoto Protocol and Its Collapse: The Kyoto Protocol in 1997 assigned clear targets to developed nations, but its implementation saw widespread non-compliance. The system began to crumble after the US and other countries failed to meet their commitments.

Dilution of Climate Responsibilities

• Erosion of Commitment: The 2015 Paris Agreement broke the divide between developed and developing countries, but it still placed the financial burden primarily on the developed world. However, at COP29, developed nations resisted contributing more, while nations like China opposed expanding the list of contributors.
• Shifting Responsibility: The developed countries argue that the financial requirements have escalated, and that emerging economies should contribute more. This has led to conflicts over the distribution of financial obligations.

Conclusion

While the climate talks still provide a platform for some vulnerable nations to voice concerns, their effectiveness in combating global climate change has been severely weakened. The gradual dismantling of the international climate system signals a dire need for new, more equitable approaches to address climate change.

WOMEN WHO CONTRIBUTED TO THE CONSTITUTION OF INDIA

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

The drafting of India’s Constitution was a monumental task that saw contributions from various visionaries. Among the 299 members of the Constituent Assembly, 15 women played a vital role in shaping the nation’s democratic framework. These women, coming from diverse backgrounds, faced numerous challenges such as caste discrimination, child marriage, and widowhood.

Key Contributions by Women in the Constituent Assembly

• Diverse Backgrounds and Struggles
  The women in the Constituent Assembly were not only deeply affected by societal issues like patriarchy and caste-based discrimination but also fought against personal hardships.
• These experiences informed their views on critical issues like reservations, minority rights, and social justice.
• Reservations and Social Justice
  Some women, like Dakshayani Velayudhan and Begum Aizaz Rasul, opposed reservations for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
• They believed that such provisions could create permanent divisions between the majority and minorities, instead of fostering unity.
• On the other hand, leaders like Durgabai Deshmukh and Hansa Jivraj Mehta supported social reforms aimed at ensuring equality for all.
• Advocacy for Women’s Rights and Equality
  Many women in the Constituent Assembly, such as Hansa Mehta and Amrit Kaur, opposed reservations for women, believing that true equality would come through equal participation in the legislature via ordinary elections.
• They also argued for the adoption of a Uniform Civil Code, which they believed would ensure gender equality in marriage, inheritance, and family matters.

Prominent Figures and Their Contributions

• Annie Mascarene: A lawyer and politician, Mascarene advocated for a centralised yet balanced government to maintain the democratic structure in India.
• Hansa Mehta: A key freedom fighter and women’s rights activist, Mehta argued against women’s reservations in favor of equality in political participation.
• Dakshayani Velayudhan: A Gandhian and social reformer, Velayudhan strongly supported the abolition of untouchability (Article 17 of the Constitution) and was deeply involved in the fight against caste discrimination.
• Amrit Kaur: A freedom fighter and the first woman Health Minister, Kaur supported the Uniform Civil Code and the idea of secularism in the new Constitution.

Legacy and Impact
These women left behind a lasting legacy that shaped the foundational principles of India’s Constitution. Their contributions not only helped in building a sovereign nation but also ensured that women’s voices were heard in the creation of a just and equal society.

Conclusion

The women in the Constituent Assembly played an essential role in drafting a constitution that would guarantee equality and justice for all citizens. Their advocacy for social reforms, rights, and gender equality paved the way for a more inclusive and progressive India. Despite facing societal challenges, these women made significant strides towards shaping a democratic and secular republic.

GOVERNMENT FOCUS ON STRENGTHENING CREDIT AND FINANCIAL INCLUSION

TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The government has taken key steps to strengthen credit access and promote financial inclusion, particularly targeting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). These measures are part of a broader strategy to boost credit flow, support startups, and enhance financial stability.

Key Measures to Boost Credit

• New Credit Assessment Model: The government has introduced a new credit assessment system for MSMEs, focusing on digital footprints and cash flow, rather than traditional asset-based evaluations. This model will help assess creditworthiness for businesses without formal accounting systems.
• Public Sector Banks’ New Products: Public Sector Banks (PSBs) are set to launch new products in the next few months to enhance credit growth, particularly targeting MSMEs and the youth demographic, which is seen as a key engine of economic growth.

Promoting Fintech Growth

• India’s Role in the Global Fintech Ecosystem: India ranks third globally for the number of startups, with over 13,000 fintech entities contributing to the sector. The government is working closely with the fintech industry to drive innovation and inclusivity, particularly in underserved areas.
• Support for Ease of Doing Business: The government is focused on reducing the compliance burden on fintech companies and creating a favourable business environment. Initiatives like PM Suraksha Bima Yojana and Atal Pension Yojana are seen as key opportunities for the fintech industry.

Challenges and Future Outlook

• Digital Fraud Risks: Rising digital fraud poses a threat to the financial system’s stability. The government emphasizes the need for better financial literacy and enhanced digital security measures to address these risks.
• Banking Amendment Bill: The government is set to move the Banking Amendment Bill in Parliament, which aims to update banking regulations and improve customer protection and compliance processes.

Conclusion
These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing credit access, fostering fintech growth, and ensuring financial inclusion, while balancing innovation with regulatory safeguards.

DISCOVERY OF A NEW PTEROSAUR SPECIES

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: CNN NEWS

Pterosaurs, the first vertebrates to achieve powered flight, were flying reptiles that thrived during the Mesozoic Era. Recently, paleontologists uncovered a new pterosaur species from 100-million-year-old fossils in Queensland, Australia.

About Pterosaurs:

1. Time Period: Existed during the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods (252.2 to 66 million years ago).
2. Flying Reptiles: First reptiles capable of flight, using strong forelegs for takeoff.
3. Archosaur Group: Related to dinosaurs, crocodiles, and birds but not classified as dinosaurs.
4. Notable Species: Included Quetzalcoatlus, the largest known flying vertebrate.

Physical Features:

1. Wings: Membranes of skin connected to an elongated fourth finger, distinct from birds or bats.
2. Early vs. Later Species:
   • Early species had long tails and toothed jaws.
   • Later species had reduced tails and some were toothless.
3. Adaptations: Long necks and throat pouches for catching fish, similar to pelicans.

Extinction:

• Vanished 65.5 million years ago during the Cretaceous-Tertiary extinction event.
• Birds, descended from dinosaurs, replaced them as dominant aerial vertebrates.

GELEPHU MINDFULNESS CITY (GMC)

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

Gelephu Mindfulness City is a visionary project in Bhutan aimed at combining sustainable urban development with mindfulness and holistic living. Recently, the Bhutanese Prime Minister praised India’s support for this “Zero Carbon” city project.

About GMC:

1. Visionary Project: Envisioned by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.
2. Location and Size: Situated in south-central Bhutan, spanning 2,500 sq. km (larger than Singapore).
3. Special Administrative Region (SAR): First of its kind in Bhutan with unique administrative autonomy.
4. Strategic Placement: Located near the India-Bhutan border in Assam, benefiting both nations.

Key Features:

Design and Infrastructure:

• Built around inhabitable bridges.
• Eleven ribbon-like neighborhoods incorporating 35 rivers and streams.
• Neighborhoods arranged like mandalas with central public spaces.

Sustainability:

• Paddy fields as urban terraces to prevent flooding.
• Low-rise buildings to reduce environmental impact.

Facilities:

• Includes a university, hospitals for western and traditional medicine, markets, and spiritual centers.
• Plans for an international airport.

Governance and Conservation:

• Independent judiciary and law-making powers.
• Protected areas like a national park and wildlife sanctuary for biodiversity conservation.