31-December-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

THE ROLE OF ELDER ANIMALS IN ECOSYSTEM CONSERVATION

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

Elder animals play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance by contributing to species survival, social structure stability, and knowledge transmission. Human-induced threats, such as habitat destruction and climate change, have significantly impacted these older individuals, endangering biodiversity.

Significance of Elder Animals in the Animal Kingdom

• Guidance and Knowledge Sharing: Older animals guide their groups, teaching survival skills and navigating challenges. Their roles ensure stability within social hierarchies and enable survival strategies.
• Social Stability and Adaptation: Elders stabilize animal societies by passing on cultural behaviours and adaptive knowledge. They often assist in caregiving, improving offspring survival in harsh environments.

Examples of Elder Roles in Social Structures

• Elephants: African elephant matriarchs lead herds, responding effectively to threats like predators. Younger elephants without guidance from elder’s face conflicts and struggle with survival.
• Orcas: Older female orcas support their groups, especially after menopause, helping raise calves. They guide younger members to feeding areas and protect them from dangers, enhancing population resilience.

Human Activities and Their Impact

• Threats to Elders: Activities like deforestation, poaching, and climate change disrupt elder populations. The loss of elders destabilizes social structures, making species more vulnerable.
• Consequences on Younger Generations: Younger animals without elders face increased stress, disrupted learning, and reduced survival rates.

Conservation through Longevity Paradigm

• Protecting Older Individuals: Conservation strategies should include preserving elder animals, especially in long-lived species. Elders contribute to reproduction, cultural transmission, and survival during environmental changes.
• Importance in Variable Environments: For species like fish and reptiles, older individuals play a significant role in reproduction and ecosystem adaptation

Challenges in Implementation

• Fisheries Management: Multi-species fisheries struggle with targeting specific ages or species due to diverse growth rates.
• Policy Limitations: The IUCN does not yet prioritize the loss of elders in species’ conservation status.

Conclusion

Protecting elder animals is essential for sustaining biodiversity and ecosystem health. Their experience and roles strengthen species’ resilience against environmental and human-induced threats. Conservation strategies, though challenging, must prioritize the preservation of older individuals to ensure long-term stability.

UNCONVENTIONAL WARFARE: A GROWING CHALLENGE

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

The rise of unconventional warfare, including Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based methods and cyber-attacks, poses significant challenges to national security. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the need for India to prepare for these evolving threats.

Types of Emerging Threats

• AI-Based Warfare: AI is revolutionizing military operations by enabling faster decision-making and automation. The use of autonomous weapons adds unpredictability and complexity to battlefields.
• Cyber Attacks: Increased dependency on digital systems makes military infrastructure susceptible to cyber threats. These attacks can disrupt intelligence networks, critical systems, and command operations.
• Information Warfare: Spreading false information and influencing public opinion destabilizes societies. Controlling narratives has become a key strategy in modern conflicts.
• Electromagnetic Warfare: Attacks using electromagnetic fields disable enemy communication and radar systems. Such tactics can cripple military operations without physical confrontations.
• Space Warfare: Targeting satellites and other space assets opens a new front in warfare. Both physical and cyber threats to space infrastructure pose serious vulnerabilities.
• Proxy Warfare: States employ non-state actors to achieve strategic goals, complicating the identification of attackers.

Challenges in Addressing These Threats

• Rapid Evolution of Technology: The pace of advancements demands swift adaptation in defence strategies. Traditional military systems and training may fall short against unconventional methods.
• Cybersecurity: The sophistication of cyberattacks requires constant innovation and vigilance. Protecting military networks is an ongoing challenge.
• Resource Allocation: Balancing investment in traditional and modern defence systems is critical.

India’s Response to Emerging Threats

• Focus on Frontier Technologies: Enhanced military training programs now include AI, communication, and leadership skills. Training centres like those in Mhow Cantonment prepare personnel for advanced threats.
• Boosting Defence Exports: India’s defence exports are growing, with a target of ₹50,000 crore by 2029. This reflects the development of cutting-edge defence technologies.

Way Forward

• Invest in AI Research: Strengthen research to develop advanced AI tools for defence.
• AI-Driven Defences: Implement machine learning systems to detect and mitigate emerging threats.
• Global Collaboration: Work with other nations to share knowledge and best practices in unconventional warfare.
• Ethical Standards: Create guidelines to ensure responsible and ethical use of AI in military applications.

Conclusion

Unconventional warfare demands advanced strategies to safeguard national security. India must focus on frontier technologies and international collaboration to address these threats effectively and ensure preparedness for future challenges.

H-1B VISA DEBATE: DIVISIONS AMONG TRUMP SUPPORTERS

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The H-1B visa program, which allows skilled foreign workers to contribute to the U.S. economy, has sparked debates within the American political right. These discussions highlight divisions among Trump supporters regarding skilled immigration policies.

Key Issues in the H-1B Visa Debate

Controversy Among Trump Supporters:

• The appointment of Chennai-born Sriram Krishnan as Donald Trump’s AI advisor reignited discussions on skilled immigration.
• Some conservatives argue the program undermines American workers, while others, like Elon Musk, support its necessity.

Immigration as a Divisive Topic:

• Immigration, especially during election seasons, remains a polarizing issue in the U.S.
• Historically, criticism targeted low-skilled workers; now, similar concerns extend to skilled immigrants in tech.
• Broader economic anxieties, including unemployment and inflation, amplify these debates.

H-1B Visa Program:

• Introduced in 1990, the program allows U.S. companies to hire specialized foreign workers.
• Annually, 65,000 visas are issued, with an additional 20,000 for advanced-degree holders.
• Exemptions for research institutions and continuing employment lead to approvals exceeding the cap.

• Indian Dominance in the Program: In 2023, Indian nationals accounted for over 70% of the approved H-1B visas. More than 385,000 petitions were approved that year.

Criticism of the H-1B Program

• Concerns Over Wages: Critics argue that tech companies exploit the program to hire foreign workers at lower salaries, bypassing local talent.

• Data shows that 70% of Indian H-1B workers earn below $100,000 annually, less than the U.S. IT sector median salary of $104,420.

• Focus on Cost-Cutting: Some claim the program is used to reduce labour costs rather than address genuine skill shortages. Industry leaders dispute these claims, citing STEM talent shortages as the real issue.

Proposed Reforms

• Suggestions by Industry Leaders: Elon Musk and others propose raising the minimum salary for H-1B workers. Increasing costs for companies hiring overseas talent is another proposed reform.
• Significance of the Program: Despite criticism, the H-1B program is crucial for filling STEM skill gaps, where the U.S. lags behind China and India in graduate output.

Conclusion

The H-1B visa debate reflects the intersection of political, economic, and global talent considerations. While reforms may address valid concerns, the program remains vital for sustaining U.S. innovation and technological leadership.

YEAR-END REVIEW 2024: MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

In 2024, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) implemented several initiatives to address challenges such as extremism, drug trafficking, and disaster management. These measures aim to enhance governance, ensure safety, and promote inclusive development.

Major Initiatives by the Ministry of Home Affairs

Introduction of New Criminal Laws

• New Legal Framework: The colonial-era laws were replaced with Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam. These laws focus on delivering justice faster, ensuring victim-centric reforms, and increasing conviction rates.
• Use of Technology: e-Sakshya: Stores and manages video and photographic evidence electronically for court access. e-Summon: Simplifies summons delivery through digital platforms.
• Nyaya Setu: Connects police, forensic, and judicial systems to streamline case management.
• Nyaya Shruti: Enables witness testimonies via video conferencing, saving time and costs.

Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA)

• Granting Citizenship: Provides citizenship to persecuted minorities from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, including Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, Buddhists, Jains, and Parsis. CAA rules were notified, and the first set of citizenship certificates were issued in 2024.

Inclusive Development in Jammu & Kashmir

• Scheduled Tribes Inclusion: Pahari, Padrai, Koli, and Gadda Brahmin communities were added to the Scheduled Tribes list without affecting existing reservations for Gujjars and Bakarwals.
• Zero Terror Plan: Achieved historic voter turnouts in elections. Focused on dismantling terrorist networks and building employment opportunities.

Tackling Left-Wing Extremism (LWE)

• Progress in 2024: Reduced violence with over 287 Naxalites eliminated and 992 arrests. Initiated community projects like Bastar Olympics and dairy cooperatives in affected areas.
• Vision 2026: Aims to eradicate LWE by March 2026 with focused development and security measures.

Combating Drug Trafficking

• Seized over 4,000 kg of drugs worth ₹900 crore.
• Introduced MANAS Helpline (1933) for reporting and de-addiction support.
• Established NCB offices in all states for better enforcement.

Disaster Management Reforms

• Proactive Approach: Passed the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, to enhance preparedness and quick response. Strengthened NDMA and SDMA for efficient operations during disasters.
• Operational Actions: Deployed NDRF and armed forces for flood relief in nine affected states.

Conclusion:
The MHA’s efforts in 2024 reflect a comprehensive approach to governance, addressing security, development, and disaster resilience with a vision for inclusive and proactive progress.

NASA’S PARKER SOLAR PROBE: FLYING CLOSER TO THE SUN

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

On December 24, 2024, NASA’s Parker Solar Probe achieved a historic milestone by flying closer to the Sun than any other spacecraft. It reached an unprecedented distance of 6.1 million kilometres, enduring extreme heat to advance solar research.

Overview of the Parker Solar Probe

• Launch and Mission Duration: Launched on August 12, 2018, by NASA, the Parker Solar Probe is a seven-year mission dedicated to studying the Sun.
• Purpose: Designed to investigate the Sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, and its dynamic behaviour.

Mission Objectives

• Studying the Corona: Understanding why the Sun’s corona is significantly hotter than its surface.
• Solar Wind Research: Exploring the origins of solar wind and its role in creating solar storms.
• Impact on Earth: Investigating how solar storms, like coronal mass ejections, influence Earth’s magnetic field and technology.

Technological Innovations

• Heat Shield: Equipped with a state-of-the-art shield to endure temperatures over 930°C near the Sun. Maintains onboard instruments at room temperature (approximately 29°C).

Future Milestones

• Ongoing Flybys: The probe will conduct additional close approaches, with significant data collection expected during flybys in 2025.
• Continuous Research: Aims to provide deeper insights into solar phenomena through repeated observations.

Conclusion:
NASA’s Parker Solar Probe is a groundbreaking mission pushing the boundaries of space exploration. Its findings will deepen our understanding of the Sun and its influence on Earth and beyond.

FISHING CAT COLLARING PROECT: INDIA’S FIRST INITIATIVE

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

The Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun, is launching India’s first Fishing Cat Collaring Project in the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary. This initiative aims to understand the behaviour, habitat, and ecology of fishing cats, a vulnerable species.

India’s First Fishing Cat Collaring Project

• Objective: The project is part of the second fishing cat census, focusing on their home range, feeding patterns, and habitat use.
• Key Details: Aims to collar 10 fishing cats using lightweight GIS-enabled devices. Scheduled for completion by March or April 2025.
• Duration: It is a three-year-long initiative to enhance conservation efforts.

Fishing Cats:

• Scientific Name: Prionailurus viverrinus.

• Physical Traits: About twice the size of a domestic cat. Excellent swimmers and nocturnal hunters.
• Diet: Primarily fish but also frogs, crustaceans, snakes, birds, and carrion.

• Habitat: Found in mangrove forests, estuarine floodplains, and freshwater habitats. Populations are concentrated in Sundarbans (West Bengal and Bangladesh), Chilika Lagoon (Odisha), and mangroves in Andhra Pradesh (Coringa and Krishna).
• Threats: Wetland destruction and shrimp farming. Hunting for meat, skin, and ritualistic purposes.

Protection Status

• IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.
• CITES: Listed under Appendix II.
• Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I.

Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Situated in Andhra Pradesh’s Godavari estuary, at the meeting point of the Coringa River and Bay of Bengal.
• Size:  Spans 235 square kilometres, making it India’s second-largest mangrove habitat.
• Significance: A critical habitat for the endangered fishing cat and other wildlife.

Conclusion:
The Fishing Cat Collaring Project is a crucial step toward conserving this vulnerable species by understanding its ecological needs and addressing threats to its survival.

UPI DUOPOLY AND MARKET VULNERABILITIES

TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The rapid rise of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has revolutionized digital transactions in India. However, growing market concentration among a few players poses risks to competition, innovation, and financial security.

UPI’s Growth in India

• Remarkable Expansion: UPI now handles nearly 80% of India’s digital transactions. In August 2024, UPI processed transactions worth ₹20.60 lakh crore.
• Trust and Accessibility: UPI has successfully transitioned a cash-reliant population with low digital literacy into digital payments. It reflects the trust built among users.

Challenges to Expanding UPI

• Limited Penetration: Currently, UPI reaches only 30% of India’s population.
• Need for Innovation: Expanding to the remaining 70% will require better app designs, diversified services, and innovative solutions.

Market Concentration in UPI

• Dominance of Two Players: PhonePe and Google Pay control over 85% of the UPI market. Paytm, the next largest player, holds a mere 7.2% share.
• Highly Concentrated Ecosystem: This concentration creates challenges for competition and innovation.

Risks of Market Concentration

• Systemic Vulnerability: Reliance on a few players increases risks of disruption. Any service failure could significantly impact India’s financial system.
• Reduced Competition and Innovation: Dominant players create barriers for smaller firms. The zero-charge framework encourages providers to prioritize scale over innovation.
• Foreign Ownership Issues: PhonePe is owned by Walmart, and Google Pay by Google. This raises concerns about data security and foreign control of critical financial infrastructure.

Path to a Stronger UPI Ecosystem

• Encouraging Indian Players: Supporting Indian developers and startups can enhance competition.
• Regulatory Measures: Implementing caps on market share can reduce monopoly risks.
• Incentives for Innovation: Offering incentives for smaller players can drive innovation and resilience.

Conclusion

UPI’s continued success depends on fostering competition, enhancing trust, and ensuring security. Regulatory measures to curb market concentration and support Indian players are essential for a robust and inclusive UPI ecosystem.

POORLY MANUFACTURED DRUGS

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: INDIAN EXPRESS

Recent deaths in Ballari, Karnataka, linked to substandard drugs highlight the dangers of poor-quality medications and gaps in India’s drug regulation system. Addressing these issues is critical for safeguarding public health.

Incidents of Substandard Drugs

• Regulatory Loopholes: Under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, companies can sell drugs nationwide, even if only inspected by the state where they are licensed. This creates challenges for states like Karnataka to prevent the circulation of substandard drugs.
• Impact on Public Health: Poor-quality drugs have led to deaths and health risks, as seen in Karnataka and other states.

Challenges Faced by States

• Jurisdiction Issues: States struggle to act against drugs manufactured elsewhere.
• Lengthy Legal Process: Prosecuting companies is time-consuming, allowing them to continue operations.
• Limited Authority: Only the licensing state can suspend or cancel manufacturing licenses.

Proposed Solutions

• Centralized Database: Develop a unified platform for test results from drug testing laboratories. Include inspection reports and licensing details to enable better monitoring.
• Information Sharing: Facilitate cooperation among state drug control departments and public procurement agencies.
• Risk-Based Enforcement: Use database insights to prioritize enforcement actions against repeat offenders.

Additional Measures

• Blacklist Register: Create a national register of blacklisted manufacturers to block their market access.
• State Authority Expansion: Empower states to restrict the sale of harmful drugs until manufacturers resolve issues.

Conclusion

Addressing the issue of substandard drugs requires bridging regulatory gaps and enhancing state powers. A centralized information-sharing system, along with legal reforms, can improve drug quality and ensure public safety across India.