9-January-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

SC QUASHES RELEASE OF 11 CONVICTS IN BILKIS CASE

GS 2 (POLITY AND GOVERNANCE): SOURCE – THE HINDU

The Supreme Court, in a landmark judgment, quashed the en masse remission order by the Gujarat government in August 2022, releasing 11 convicts involved in the brutal gang rape and murder of Bilkis Bano and her family during the 2002 riots. The two-judge bench, comprising Justices B.V. Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan, strongly rebuked the Gujarat government for its actions and emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law.

Key Points:

Communal Hate Crime and Injustice:

• The case involved a grotesque and diabolical crime driven by communal hatred, where Bilkis Bano and her family faced unspeakable atrocities.
• The BJP government in Gujarat faced criticism for acting in tandem with the convicts, ordering their premature release.

Judicial Rebuke and Protection of Rights:

• Justice Nagarathna underscored the significance of respecting women, regardless of their societal status or faith.
• The court rejected the plea for sympathy, emphasizing that the rule of law should prevail over protecting a fortunate few.

Order for Convicts and Jurisdiction Clarification:

• The convicts were directed to report back to jail within a fortnight, restoring the status quo ante.
• The court clarified that Gujarat lacked jurisdiction to grant remission, highlighting that the appropriate government was Maharashtra, where the trial and sentencing occurred.

Legal Violations and Fraudulent Order:

• Justice Nagarathna exposed fraudulent practices, stating that the order allowing Gujarat to consider remission applications was procured through fraud, suppression, and misrepresentation.
• The 1992 remission policy, cited by the Gujarat government, had already been canceled, and its applicability to Maharashtra was questioned.

Conclusion:

The Supreme Court’s decision to quash the release order reflects a commitment to justice and the rule of law. The judgment not only rectifies the legal violations but also reinforces the principle that heinous crimes against women cannot be excused through remission.

TAMIL NADU RECEIVES INVESTMENT PROPOSALS WORTH ₹6.64 LAKH CRORE DURING INVESTORS’ MEET

GS 3 (ECONOMY): SOURCE – THE HINDU

Tamil Nadu’s inaugural Global Investors Meet (GIM 2024) concluded with remarkable success, attracting investment commitments exceeding ₹6.64 lakh crore through 631 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced the substantial investments, expected to generate nearly 27 lakh jobs across various sectors.

Key Points:

Impressive Investments and Job Prospects:

• Tamil Nadu secured investments of ₹6,64,180 crore, showcasing investor confidence in the state’s policies.
• The proposed investments are anticipated to create approximately 27 lakh jobs, comprising direct and indirect employment opportunities.

Major Investments and Industry Participation:

• Notable contributions came from key entities like Tata Power, Adani Group, Sembcorp, Leap Green Energy, and Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited.
• Sector-wise distribution covers advanced electronics manufacturing, green energy, non-leather footwear, automobiles, e-vehicles, defence, aerospace, data centers, and more.

Government Commitment and Support:

• Chief Minister Stalin assured unwavering support, promising single-window clearances and a dedicated committee for project monitoring.
• The government aims to facilitate the smooth transition of MoUs into completed projects, emphasizing accessibility and commitment.

Sectoral Breakdown and Regional Development:

• Investments were distributed across sectors, with ₹3,79,809 crore mobilized through the Department of Industries.
• Chief Minister stressed that the investments would contribute to balanced regional development.

Conclusion:

Tamil Nadu’s Global Investors Meet marks a significant milestone, with substantial investments and job creation potential. The Chief Minister’s commitment to supporting investors, coupled with sectoral diversification, positions Tamil Nadu as a key player in India’s economic growth. The success of the event lays the foundation for the state’s growth over the next two decades, aligning with ambitious economic targets and fostering public-private partnerships for comprehensive development.

‘VIKSIT BHARAT YATRA AIMS TO HELP SCHEMES REACH ALL BENEFICIARIES’

GS 2 (POLITY): SOURCE – THE HINDU

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the pivotal role of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra (VBSY) in ensuring the effective outreach of government schemes to every deserving individual. The yatra, having recently completed 50 days, has connected with around 11 crore people, marking a significant journey towards socio-economic development.

Connecting with Citizens:

• VBSY serves as a comprehensive initiative to reach the doorsteps of citizens, ensuring the benefits of government schemes are proactively provided.
• “Modi Ki Guarantee” has gained global recognition, signifying the commitment to saturate scheme coverage for a developed and empowered India.

Empowering Diverse Segments:

• Nearly 12 lakh new applications for Ujjwala connections have been received, showcasing the tangible impact of VBSY on the lives of beneficiaries.
• Health check-ups exceeding two crore, including specific screenings for TB and sickle cell, emphasize the commitment to the well-being of vulnerable communities.

Women’s Empowerment and Financial Inclusion:

• Schemes like Mudra Yojna and participation in self-help groups have empowered 10 crore women, providing over ₹7.5 lakh crore and fostering financial independence.
• The government aims to increase beneficiaries to two crore through innovative programs like the “NaMo Drone Didi Scheme.”

Supporting Farmers and Agriculture:

• The government, recognizing the daily challenges faced by farmers, has implemented various initiatives to ease their difficulties and promote holistic agricultural development.

Conclusion:

Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra emerges as a transformative journey, resonating not just with the government’s commitment but becoming a collective endeavor for the nation’s progress. The focus on inclusive empowerment, health, and addressing specific challenges marks a significant step towards realizing a developed and empowered India.

 UREA GOLD: CABINET APPROVES LAUNCHING OF SULPHUR-COATED FERTILIZER

GS 3 (SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY): SOURCE – THE HINDU

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has given its approval for the launch of Urea Gold, a Sulphur-Coated Urea (SCU), aligning with the government’s commitment to Environmentally Friendly Fertilizers (EFFs). Urea Gold is designed to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.

Urea Gold – Sulphur-Coated Urea (SCU):

• Urea Gold is a slow-release fertilizer prepared by coating urea granules with molten sulphur, ensuring a gradual release of nitrogen.
• The sulphur coating prolongs urea action, leading to prolonged greening of plants and improved soil health.
• According to the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), SCU usage can reduce urea consumption by 25%, promoting resource efficiency.

Environmentally Friendly Fertilizers (EFFs):

• EFFs, including Urea Gold, aim to minimize environmental pollution by controlling nutrient release into the soil.
• Other EFFs include organic alternatives like Biocompost and Vermicompost.

Initiatives for EFFs in India:

• PM PRANAM Scheme: Program for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment, and Amelioration of Mother Earth focuses on sustainable soil practices.
• Development of Nano Urea and Neem Coated Urea: These innovations contribute to EFFs, and Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samruddhi Kendras will facilitate their distribution.
• GOBARdhan Scheme: Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan promotes the preparation of organic manure.

Conclusion:

The approval of Urea Gold reflects the government’s commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices. These initiatives align with EFFs, ensuring efficient use of fertilizers, reduced environmental impact, and improved soil health, contributing to the overall well-being of agriculture in India.

MALDIVES GOVT SUSPENDS 3 MINISTERS OVER DEROGATORY REMARKS AGAINST PM MODI

GS 2 (INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS): SOURCE – THE INDIAN EXPRESS

The suspension of three Maldivian ministers for derogatory remarks against the Indian Prime Minister raises concerns amid the traditionally close India-Maldives relations. As a crucial partner in India’s Neighbourhood First policy, recent divergences in diplomatic actions between the two nations have emerged, signaling potential shifts in the dynamics.

Recent Divergences in India-Maldives Relations:

• Choice of Foreign Destination: The Maldivian President’s selection of Turkey, not India, as the first foreign destination marks a departure from past traditions.
• “India Out” Campaign: The formal request for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the islands under the “India Out” campaign raises eyebrows.
• Non-Participation in Conclave: The Maldives abstaining from the NSA-level Colombo Security Conclave, involving India, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius, reflects a diplomatic deviation.
• Non-Renewal of Hydrography Cooperation: The decision not to renew the hydrography cooperation agreement with India after its expiry adds to the concerns.

India and Maldives Relations:

• Bilateral Trade: India became the third-largest trade partner for Maldives in 2021.
• Security & Defence: A ‘Comprehensive Action Plan for Defence’ and joint military exercises like Ekuverin highlight their collaboration. India is establishing a coast guard base and has conducted past operations to support Maldives.
• Infrastructure Projects: India’s engagement in the Greater Male Connectivity Project showcases collaborative efforts.
• Tourism: The Open Skies agreement has made India the leading source market for Maldives in 2023.

Conclusion:

While India and Maldives share a history of robust cooperation, recent developments suggest a need for diplomatic attention. The suspension incident and the noted divergences underscore the importance of reevaluating strategies to maintain the traditionally strong ties between the two nations.

 INDIAN SCIENTIFIC EXPEDITION TO ANTARCTICA (ISEA)

GS 3 (SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY): SOURCE – INDIAN EXPRESS

The MV Vasiliy Golovnin, chartered by India, begins its Antarctic journey for the 43rd ISEA Voyage under the Indian Antarctic Program (1981).

• The program established research base stations DakshinGangotri (1983), Maitri (1988), and Bharati (2012), with Maitri and Bharati currently in full operation.
• Implemented by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), the expedition involves members from Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) partner countries, a maritime security grouping formed in 2011, including India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Mauritius, with Bangladesh and Seychelles as observer members.

WORLD ECONOMIC SITUATION AND PROSPECTS 2024

GS 2 (INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS): SOURCE – INDIAN EXPRESS

The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) released a report with key findings related to India.

• The UN revised India’s GDP growth forecast for 2024 to 6.2%, recognizing it as the fastest-growing large economy globally.
• The report highlights strong investment in South Asia, particularly in India, making it a key alternative manufacturing base.
• In 2022, India saw a 10% increase in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) flows, securing its position as the third-largest host country for announced greenfield projects.
• This emphasizes India’s growing significance in the global economic landscape.