Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Camelids
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The United Nations has declared 2024 as the International Year of Camelids. This declaration aims to highlight the crucial role of Camelids in the lives of people globally.
About Camelids
- FAO’s Statement: According to the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), Camelids significantly impact millions of households in over 90 countries.
- Species Included: Camelids encompass alpacas, Bactrian camels, dromedaries, guanacos, llamas, and vicuñas.
- Role in Food Security and Economy: These animals contribute to food security, nutrition, and economic growth, particularly benefiting Indigenous Peoples and local communities.
Importance of Camelids
- Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals: Camelids play a vital role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations.
- Source of Nutrition: They provide milk and meat, essential in combating hunger.
- Fibre Production: Camelids produce fibre used for clothing and shelter.
- Transportation and Agriculture: They serve as a means of transportation and produce organic fertilizer for agriculture.
- Adaptability: Known for their ability to survive in harsh conditions, Camelids are significant in regions like the Andes and arid lands of Africa and Asia.
- Climate Change Awareness: Camelids symbolize resilience and can help raise awareness about climate change.
Goals of the International Year of Camelids 2024
- Awareness and Investment: The year aims to increase awareness of Camelids’ untapped potential and advocate for more investment in this sector.
- Advocacy for Research and Innovation: The initiative calls for enhanced research, capacity development, and the adoption of innovative practices and technologies in the Camelids sector.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Gelephu Mega-City Project
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The Gelephu “mindfulness” mega-city project, announced by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, is set to be a pivotal task for Bhutan’s future PM.
- This Special Administrative Region (SAR) project in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) aims to address economic challenges and reverse youth migration trends.
About Gelephu Project
|
Details |
| Location |
Gelephu, Sarpang district, Bhutan, near the border with Assam, India. |
| Announcement |
Made by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck during the 116th National Day address at Changlimathang Stadium, Thimphu on December 17. |
| Project Vision |
Envisioned as an “economic corridor” connecting South Asia with Southeast Asia via India’s northeastern states to countries like Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore. |
| Area and Structure |
The project will cover an area of 1,000 sq km (250,000 acres) and will be developed as a Special Administrative Region (SAR). |
| Economic and Social Goals |
Aims to be an economic and social hub on Bhutan’s southern border, designed to benefit the entire South Asian region and address youth migration by providing local employment and skilling opportunities. |
| Infrastructure Development |
– Plans for Bhutan’s second international airport capable of landing larger planes than Paro Airport.
– Proposed rail link between Kokrajhar in Assam, India, and Gelephu, Bhutan.
– Enhanced road connectivity for trade and connectivity with Southeast Asian countries. |
| Environmental and Cultural Focus |
Emphasizes environmental sustainability and cultural sensitivity.
Aims to attract ‘quality investment’ from internationally screened companies that align with Bhutanese values. |
| Energy |
Focus on renewable energy sources, aligning with Bhutan’s commitment to environmental sustainability. |
| International Collaboration |
Engagements with prominent Indian industrialists and companies for potential collaboration and investment. |
| Geopolitical Significance |
Strategic initiative for regional integration, enhancing Bhutan’s connectivity with South and Southeast Asia. |
| Advanced Safety Features |
Expected to incorporate advanced safety and environmental features, including a passive decay heat removal system. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Telecommunications Bill, 2023
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Telecommunications Bill, 2023, was introduced in the Lok Sabha focusing on the development and regulation of telecommunication services and networks.
- The Bill aims to consolidate existing laws and adapt to the evolving nature of telecommunications, emphasizing national security and inclusive digital growth.
Telecommunications Bill, 2023
- Replaces Existing Acts: The Bill seeks to replace the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933, and the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1950.
- Focus on Modernization: Recognizing the significant changes in telecommunication technologies and usage, the Bill proposes a contemporary legal framework for the sector.
National Security Provisions in the Telecom Bill
- Government Control in Emergencies: The Bill allows the government to temporarily take control of telecom services during public emergencies or for public safety.
- Interception and Priority Routing: It provides mechanisms for intercepting messages or routing specific messages on priority in the interest of national security, public order, and other key areas.
- Press Message Regulations: The Bill stipulates conditions under which press messages may be intercepted, detained, or prohibited from transmission.
- Government Directives for Message Transmission: The government can direct telecom services to transmit specific messages in the public interest.
Implications and Significance
- Enhanced Security Measures: The Bill’s provisions for government intervention in telecom services during emergencies highlight a focus on national security and public safety.
- Balancing Security and Freedom: While ensuring security, the Bill also acknowledges the need to safeguard press freedom, with specific rules for accredited correspondents.
- Modern Regulatory Framework: By replacing outdated laws, the Bill aims to create a regulatory environment that aligns with current technological advancements and societal needs.
Conclusion
- Adapting to Changing Dynamics: The Telecommunications Bill, 2023, represents a significant step in updating India’s legal framework for telecommunications, keeping pace with global technological trends.
- Focus on National Security: The emphasis on national security and public safety within the Bill reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring a secure and resilient telecommunications infrastructure.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: JN.1 Variant
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Following the detection of the JN.1 COVID-19 variant, Karnataka announced that senior citizens are advised to wear masks.
- The JN.1 variant was identified in Kerala and in a traveler from Singapore to Tamil Nadu, with additional cases found in Goa.
Understanding the JN.1 Variant
- Variant Lineage: JN.1 is a sub-variant of BA.2.86, also known as Pirola, first detected in the United States in September and globally as early as January.
- Mutation Characteristics: While JN.1 has only one additional mutation on the spike protein compared to Pirola, its high number of spike protein mutations has drawn attention of researchers.
Potential Impact of JN.1
- Transmission and Severity: Currently, there is no evidence suggesting that JN.1 causes more severe symptoms or spreads faster than other circulating variants.
- WHO Assessment: Both Pirola and JN.1 have been effectively neutralized by serum from infected and vaccinated individuals, according to the WHO Technical Advisory Group on COVID-19 Vaccine Composition.
Global Spread and Current Concerns
- Increasing Cases: A rise in cases caused by Pirola and JN.1 has been observed globally, including in the USA, Europe, Singapore, and China.
- WHO Data: JN.1 accounted for a significant proportion of COVID-19 sequences in the GISAID database and a notable percentage of variants in the United States.
- Singapore’s Situation: Singapore reported a surge in COVID-19 cases, predominantly JN.1, with increased hospitalizations among older individuals.
Vaccination and Immunity in India
- Hospitalization Risk: Data from Singapore indicates higher hospitalization risks for those who received their last COVID-19 vaccine dose over a year ago.
- Indian Immunity Levels: Doctors suggests that widespread vaccination and exposure to COVID-19 have likely resulted in substantial immunity in India, reducing the need for updated vaccines.
- Consistent Precautions: Experts recommend standard protective measures against respiratory viruses, including masking in crowded and enclosed spaces, staying in well-ventilated areas, and frequent hand washing.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Arctic Region
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Launch of Winter Expedition: India embarks on its first-ever winter expedition to the Arctic, starting this week.
- Significance: With this initiative, India’s Himadri becomes the fourth research station in the Arctic to be manned year-round.
Arctic Region and Its Global Impact
- Geographical Location: The Arctic Circle lies north of latitude 66° 34’ N, encompassing the Arctic Ocean.
- Climate Change Concerns: Scientific studies highlight the Arctic’s influence on global sea levels and atmospheric circulations due to ice melt.
- Rising Temperatures: The Arctic region has experienced an average temperature rise of 4 degrees Celsius over the past century.
- Declining Sea Ice: The Arctic sea ice extent is decreasing at a rate of 13% per decade, potentially leading to an ice-free Arctic Ocean by the summer of 2040.
Challenges in Arctic Expeditions
- Harsh Environmental Conditions: The extreme cold, with February temperatures averaging minus 14 degrees Celsius in Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard, poses significant challenges.
- Limited Research Stations: So far, only three research stations in the Arctic have had permanent staff year-round.
- Geopolitical Constraints: The presence of multiple state jurisdictions and geopolitical tensions, like the Ukraine-Russia war, complicates Arctic exploration.
India’s Winter Expedition Plan
- Expedition Team: A team of four scientists, funded by the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences, will conduct the expedition from December 19, 2023, to January 15, 2024.
- Research Areas: The expedition will focus on atmospheric sciences, astronomy, astrophysics, climate studies, and more.
- Himadri Station: The team will be based at Himadri, India’s sole research station in Ny-Ålesund, located 1,200 kilometres from the North Pole.
- Special Preparations: Himadri has been equipped for polar night observations, with support from Norwegian agencies.
Evolution of India’s Arctic Interests
- Historical Treaty: India signed the Svalbard Treaty in 1920, allowing operations in the Svalbard archipelago under Norwegian sovereignty.
- Initial Expeditions: The first Indian expedition to the Arctic was in 2007, leading to the establishment of Himadri in 2008.
- Research Developments: India set up the IndArc observatory in 2014 and the Gruvebadet Atmospheric Laboratory in 2016 in Svalbard.
- India’s Arctic Policy: Released in May 2022, it outlines six pillars including science, environmental protection, and international cooperation.
Global Research Presence in the Arctic
- First Research Station: Japan’s National Institute of Polar Research established the first station in Ny-Ålesund in 1990.
- International Collaboration: Ten countries, including India, have established eleven permanent research stations in Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard.
- Year-Round Human Presence: Until now, only three stations in the Arctic have been manned throughout the year.
Conclusion
- Enhanced Research Capabilities: India’s first winter expedition to the Arctic marks a significant advancement in its polar research capabilities.
- Global Significance: This initiative contributes to the broader understanding of climate change impacts and fosters international scientific collaboration in the Arctic region.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- In 2023, only 18 audits prepared by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) were tabled in the Indian Parliament, continuing a trend of decreasing numbers in recent years.
Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)
- Constitutional Office: The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) is an independent constitutional authority responsible for overseeing financial administration in India.
- Key Responsibilities: As the head of the Indian Audit and Accounts Department, the CAG is the guardian of the public purse, monitoring the financial system at both central and state levels.
History of the Office of CAG
- Origins in British India: The role of the CAG evolved with administrative reforms initiated by Lord Canning before the Mutiny of 1857.
- Establishment and Evolution: The office was formalized under the Government of India Act 1858, with Sir Edward Drummond becoming the first Auditor General in 1860. The title ‘Comptroller and Auditor General of India’ was first used in 1884.
- Independence and Strengthening: The Montford Reforms of 1919 and the Government of India Act 1935 further solidified the CAG’s independence and role in a federal setup.
Constitutional Provisions Related to CAG
- Articles Governing CAG: The Constitution outlines the CAG’s appointment, duties, and powers in Articles 148 to 151.
- Duties and Powers: The CAG is responsible for auditing all government accounts and advising on financial matters.
- Audit Reports: The CAG submits audit reports on Union accounts to the President and on state accounts to respective Governors.
Types of Audits Performed by CAG
- Regulatory Audit: Ensures authorized and rule-compliant expenditure.
- Supplementary Audit: Conducted in PSUs for detecting financial leakages.
- Propriety Audit: Focuses on the public interest and proper expenditure.
- Efficiency Audit: Assesses optimal utilization of investments.
- Performance Audit: Evaluates government programs for effectiveness.
- Environmental Audit: Addresses issues related to conservation and environmental management.
Independence of the CAG
- Constitutional Safeguards: The CAG’s independence is protected by various constitutional provisions, including security of tenure, ineligibility for further government office, and non-varying service conditions.
- Financial Autonomy: The CAG’s administrative expenses are charged upon the Consolidated Fund of India, ensuring financial independence.
Audit Mandate Sources
- Constitutional Basis: Articles 148 to 151 of the Constitution.
- Statutory Framework: The Duties, Powers and Conditions of Service Act, 1971.
- Regulations: Audit and accounts regulations as notified.
Duties and Functions of the CAG
- Audit Responsibilities: CAG audits all government accounts, including the Consolidated Fund, Contingency Fund, and Public Account.
- Advisory Role: Advises on financial matters and assists parliamentary committees.
- Reporting: Submits audit reports to the President and state Governors.
Limitations on the Powers of CAG
- Post-Facto Reporting: Audits are conducted after expenditures have occurred.
- Exclusions: Certain expenditures like secret service expenses are outside CAG’s purview.
- Challenges with PPP Investments: Limited authority to audit public-private partnerships.
- Limited Audit of NGOs and Local Bodies: No provision for auditing funds given to NGOs and elected local bodies.
- Document Accessibility Issues: Challenges in obtaining necessary documents for audits.
- Appointment Process: The selection process for CAG lacks external transparency.
- Undefined Audit Scope: The term ‘audit’ is not explicitly defined in the Constitution or CAG Act.
CAG Audits over the Years
- Recent Trends: Between 2019 and 2023, an average of 22 reports were tabled annually, a significant decrease from the 40 reports tabled on average between 2014 and 2018.
- Peak and Decline: The number of reports peaked in 2015 with 53 audits but has since declined, with four of the past six years seeing 20 or fewer reports tabled.
Factors Contributing to the Decline
- Staffing and Budget Cuts: The decline in the number of CAG reports tabled in Parliament coincides with reductions in staff strength and budget allocations for the CAG.
- Budget Allocation: In the fiscal year 2023-24, the allocation for the Indian Audit and Accounts Department constituted only 0.13% of the Union Budget.
Conclusion
- Impact on Oversight and Transparency: The reduction in the number of CAG audits tabled in Parliament could have implications for governmental oversight and transparency.
- Need for Adequate Resources: Ensuring the CAG is adequately staffed and funded is crucial for maintaining effective audit practices and upholding the accountability of government operations.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Prime Minister Modi's Panchamrit Action Plan
Mains level: trade negotiations
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: anti-defection
Mains level: addressing the shortcomings in the Tenth Schedule
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Article 200
Mains level: Governors' discretion in reserving Bills
Central idea
Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud’s landmark interpretation in the State of Punjab case links the Governor’s power to withhold assent to the immediate reconsideration of Bills, safeguarding legislative rights. The judgment addresses historical delays caused by Governors and raises concerns about potential strategic reservations for the President. The article emphasizes the need for clarity on Governors’ discretion and suggests a constitutional review for a comprehensive legislative framework.
Key Highlights:
- Landmark Judgment: Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud’s groundbreaking interpretation of Article 200.
- Innovative Approach: CJI’s creative approach to constitutional nuances in the State of Punjab case.
- Assent and Reconsideration Link: Linking the withholding of assent to the immediate reconsideration of Bills.
Key Challenges:
- Historical Delays: Governors’ Past Practices causing prolonged delays in decision-making.
- Strategic Reservations: Governors exploiting the option to strategically reserve Bills for the President.
Key Terms/Phrases:
- Constitutional Articles: Article 200, Proviso to Article 200, Article 254.
- Governor’s Powers: Withholding assent, reconsideration, and reservation for the President.
- Presidential Consideration: Conditions for reserving Bills for the President.
Key Quotes/Anecdotes:
- Forward-Thinking Judiciary: “The CJI, in a forward-thinking approach, protects the legislature’s rights.”
- Supreme Court’s Firm Stance: “The Supreme Court emphatically states Governors cannot unduly delay the decision on Bills.”
Key Statements:
- Curbing Arbitrary Power: CJI’s interpretation limits the Governor’s arbitrary power to withhold assent without prompt reconsideration.
- Judicial Assertiveness: The Supreme Court asserts Governors’ accountability in decision-making, addressing historical lapses.
Key Examples and References:
- Governor of Kerala’s Discretion: Arif Mohammed Khan’s discretionary action in sending Bills to the President.
- Tamil Nadu Governor’s Controversial Move: Sending Bills to the President against constitutional provisions sparks controversy.
Key Facts/Data:
- Constitutional Mandates: Second proviso to Article 200 mandates reservation for the President under specific conditions.
- Article 254 Framework: Outlines conditions for a State law’s supremacy on Concurrent List items.
Critical Analysis:
- Safeguarding Legislative Rights: The judgment protects legislative rights but prompts questions about Bills reserved for the President.
- Governor’s Discretion Scrutiny: The article scrutinizes Governors’ discretion in sending Bills to the President, highlighting potential constitutional issues.
Way Forward:
- Clarification Imperative: The need for further clarity on Governors’ discretion in reserving Bills for the President.
- Constitutional Review: Examining the constitutional framework regarding Bills on State and Concurrent subjects for a comprehensive legislative landscape.
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