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  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    [pib] International Abhidhamma Divas

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Why in the News?

    PM has participated in the celebration of International Abhidhamma Divas and recognition of Pali as a classical language.

    What is Abhidhamma?

    • Abhidhamma means “Higher Teaching” or “Special Teaching” in Pali, one of the three main divisions of the Tripitaka (Abhidhamma Pitaka) of Theravada Buddhism.
    • It offers a systematic and analytical exploration of mind and matter, delving deeper into Buddhist philosophy than the Sutta Pitaka.
    • The Abhidhamma explores mental states, consciousness, and psychological processes, providing a framework for understanding reality.
    • It is known for its technical and specialized vocabulary in Pali, such as:
      • Chitta (consciousness)
      • Chetasika (mental factors)
      • Rupa (materiality)
      • Nibbana (final liberation).
    • Abhidhamma Pitaka contains seven treatises, with Pannhana being one of the most notable for its analysis of causal relationships.
    • Traditionally, Buddha is believed to have taught the Abhidhamma to the gods in the Tavatimsa heaven, later sharing the teachings with his disciple Sariputta.

    About International Abhidhamma Divas

    • It is celebrated Ashwin Purnima (Full Moon), to commemorate Buddha’s descent from Tavatimsa-devaloka (a celestial realm) to Sankassiya (Sankisa Basantapur, UP).
      • It actually marks the conclusion of a 3-month rain retreat, known as Varsavasa or Vasa, during which monks remain in a single location for meditation and prayer.
    • The celebration involves Dhamma discourses, academic sessions, and exhibitions that connect ancient wisdom with modern spiritual practices.
    • Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, hosts the event, organized by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC).

    Teachings of Abhidhamma

    • The Abhidhamma provides a detailed framework for understanding the mind, matter, and existence.
    • It addresses complex concepts like birth, death, and mental phenomena in a precise and abstract manner.
    • Abhidhamma is known for its analytical approach:
      • It categorizes mental states and emotions.
      • It explains causal relationships that determine mental and material phenomena.
    • The teachings cover topics like:
      • Moral and mental states
      • Aggregates (components of existence)
      • Causal links
      • Path to enlightenment.

    Historical Background and Significance

    • Abhidhamma Divas commemorates the day when Lord Buddha returned to earth after teaching the Abhidhamma in the Tavatimsa realm.
    • The descent is marked by the Ashokan Elephant Pillar at Sankassiya, highlighting its historical significance.
    • The celebration coincides with the end of the Rainy Retreat (Vassa), a period of monastic seclusion, and the Pavarana festival, a time of mutual reflection among monks.

    Classical Status to Pali Language

    • In 2024, the event holds special significance due to the recognition of Pali as a Classical Language by the Indian government.
    • Pali is the ancient language in which much of Buddhist canonical literature is written, including the Tipitaka.
    • Recognized as a Classical Language by the Government of India in 2024, alongside Marathi, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali.
    • Pali’s significance lies in its role as the medium for delivering Buddha’s teachings, especially the Sutta Pitaka, Vinaya Pitaka, and Abhidhamma Pitaka.
    • The Tipitaka is composed of:
      • Vinaya Pitaka: Ethical rules for monks and nuns.
      • Sutta Pitaka: Discourses and teachings of Buddha.
      • Abhidhamma Pitaka: Detailed analysis of mental and physical phenomena.
    • Pali has a rich tradition of commentaries such as Atthasalini and Sammohavinodani, which aid in understanding Abhidhamma concepts.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:

    1. Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism.
    2. Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism.
    3. The deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered the Mahayana Buddhism.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    [2016] With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:

    1. The concept of Bodhisattva is central to Hinayana sect of Buddhism.
    2. Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to Enlightenment.
    3. Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 2 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Wildlife Conservation Efforts

    Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary 

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary 

    Why in the News?

    • The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) has approved 5 crucial roads, including 4 that pass through the Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary near the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
      • These include a route to Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO), India’s northernmost military outpost in Ladakh, which also houses the country’s highest airstrip.

    About Karakoram Wildlife Sanctuary:

    Details
    Location Ladakh, India, situated in the eastern part of the Karakoram Range.
    Area 5,000 sq km (approximately), making it one of the largest high-altitude protected areas in India.
    Altitude Range Ranges from about 4,200m to over 7,500m at the peak of Saltoro Kangri.
    Climate
    • Characterized by a cold desert climate, with harsh winters, low temperatures, and limited vegetation.
    • The region experiences snowfall during winter and temperatures can drop below -20°C (-4°F).
    • Summer temperatures are also low, typically ranging between 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F).
    Biodiversity Home to species like the snow leopard, Tibetan antelope (chiru), Tibetan wild ass (kiang), ibex, and blue sheep (Bharal). The sanctuary also supports migratory bird species during certain times of the year.
    Flora Sparse vegetation, with cold desert flora, including hardy grasses, shrubs, and medicinal plants.
    Rivers Shyok and Nubra Rivers flow through the Ladakh region, providing crucial water sources for the sanctuary.
    Significance Part of the larger trans-Himalayan ecosystem, offering a habitat for some of the rarest and most endangered species in the world.
    Conservation Challenges Harsh climatic conditions, limited accessibility, and poaching threats to species like the chiru, whose undercoat is highly prized.
    Tourism and Access Restricted due to its proximity to the international border with China. Special permits are required for researchers and travelers.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] Which one of the following protected areas is well-known for the conservation of a sub-species of the Indian swamp deer (Barasingha) that thrives well on hard ground and is exclusively graminivorous?

    (a) Kanha National Park

    (b) Manas National Park

    (c) Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary

    (d) Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Canada

    Canada accuses Indian diplomats?

    Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Why in the News?

    India-Canada relations have reached a historic low after Justin Trudeau’s government accused Indian officials of being involved in “activities that pose a significant threat to public safety,” claims that New Delhi has strongly rejected as “preposterous.”

    What specific allegations has Canada made against Indian diplomats?

    • Violent Extremism: Canadian authorities claim that agents of the Government of India have been involved in violent extremist activities affecting both countries.
    • Involvement in Criminal Activity: The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have accused Indian diplomats and consular officials of being linked to homicides, acts of violence, and the use of organized crime to create a sense of insecurity among the South Asian community in Canada.
    • Foreign Interference: Investigations suggest Indian officials leveraged their positions to collect information on certain individuals or groups in Canada, either directly or through proxies. This intelligence was allegedly shared with the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) in India.
    • Threats and Coercion: The allegations include coercion tactics where individuals in Canada were reportedly threatened regarding their immigration status or faced risks to their family members in India.
    • Connections with Organized Crime: There are claims that Indian intelligence conveyed information to criminal networks in India, allegedly linked to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who is in custody in India. These networks are suspected of intimidating or targeting Canadians of South Asian descent.
    • Involvement in Assassinations: The controversy began with the assassination of Khalistani activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, and was further linked to the killing of Sukhdool Singh Gill in Winnipeg. Both incidents allegedly have ties to Indian government directives.

    How has India responded to Canada’s accusations?

    • Denial of Allegations: India has categorically dismissed the allegations as “absurd” and “preposterous.” Indian authorities have rejected claims of any involvement in criminal activities in Canada or targeting the Sikh community.
    • Accusations of Canadian Tolerance for Extremism: New Delhi has countered by accusing Canada of allowing anti-India elements and Khalistani separatist groups to operate freely, impacting India’s sovereignty and security.
    • Denial of Diplomatic Cooperation: Reports suggest that while India initially agreed to cooperate with the Canadian investigation, it later denied visas to RCMP officials who intended to share evidence with Indian counterparts.

    What actions have both countries taken in retaliation?

    • Expulsion of Diplomats: Following Canada’s expulsion of an Indian diplomat, India retaliated by expelling a senior Canadian diplomat, escalating the diplomatic dispute.
    • Visa Suspension: In response to the diplomatic tensions, India suspended visa services for Canadian citizens, citing security concerns for Indian diplomatic personnel in Canada.
    • Reduced Diplomatic Presence: The crisis has resulted in both nations significantly scaling back their diplomatic staff, affecting consular services and visa issuance.
    • Diplomatic Disengagement: India’s foreign minister has hinted at limiting diplomatic interactions with Canada, reflecting the deterioration in bilateral ties.

    What are the potential implications of this diplomatic crisis for both sides?

    • Bilateral Relations: The row represents a historic low in India-Canada relations. Both nations may experience prolonged diplomatic disengagement, adversely affecting cooperation in trade, education, and defence.
    • Economic Impacts: Canada is a significant partner for Indian students and the Punjabi diaspora, which could face disruptions in visa issuance, immigration processes, and consular services.
    • Geopolitical Ramifications: The dispute may strain India’s relations with Western allies, including the United States, which has strong ties with both India and Canada.
    • Division in Diaspora Communities: The Sikh community in Canada could be further divided, with escalating tensions around pro-Khalistan activities. Allegations against Indian officials may also increase anti-India sentiments among diaspora groups.

    Way forward: 

    • Diplomatic Engagement and De-escalation: Both countries should prioritize diplomatic channels to de-escalate tensions, perhaps through neutral intermediaries or international platforms, ensuring that the crisis does not further damage long-term relations, trade, and people-to-people ties.
    • Focused Cooperation on Extremism and Criminal Activity: A joint task force or collaborative investigation involving both nations could be set up to address concerns about violent extremism and criminal activity, fostering transparency and trust, while respecting sovereignty and legal frameworks.

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  • Agricultural Sector and Marketing Reforms – eNAM, Model APMC Act, Eco Survey Reco, etc.

    ‘Yield’ can’t be the sole indicator for agriculture

    Explained | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Agriculture and related issues

    Why in the News?

    Government must embrace a new approach where the success of agriculture is defined by its capacity to nourish people, support livelihoods, and safeguard our planet for future generations.

    What are the limitations of using yield as the sole indicator of agricultural success?

    • Nutritional Quality Neglect as per ICAR (Indian Council for Agricultural Research): Focusing on yield has led to a decline in the nutritional profile of crops. High-yielding varieties often have lower micronutrient densities, as seen in reduced zinc and iron levels in rice and wheat.
    • Increased Input Costs: Higher yield does not always correlate with increased farmer income. The cost of achieving additional yield may be high, especially as the response to fertilizers has declined significantly since the 1970s.
    • Biodiversity Loss: The emphasis on a few high-yielding varieties leads to the loss of diverse, local crop varieties. For example, India has lost around 104,000 rice varieties since the Green Revolution.
    • Environmental Impact: Intensive farming to maximize yield can degrade soil health, reduce water availability, and harm the ecosystem, making agriculture less sustainable.
    • Reduced Resilience: The prioritization of yield over other factors makes crops less resilient to extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and heatwaves.

    How do other indicators complement yield in assessing agricultural sustainability?

    • Nutritional Output Per Hectare: This indicator measures not just the quantity but the quality of the food produced, addressing nutritional security.
    • Soil Health Metrics: Including soil biological activity and soil organic carbon in evaluations helps ensure long-term soil fertility and productivity.
    • Water-Use Efficiency: Metrics like water-use efficiency track the amount of water required to produce crops, promoting conservation.
    • Farm Biodiversity: Assessing crop diversity at the farm and regional levels (Landscape Diversity Score) improves resilience to pests, diseases, and climate variability.
    • Economic Resilience Metrics: Indicators such as income diversification (through intercropping, livestock rearing, etc.) can help measure farmers’ economic stability.
    • Environmental Impact Measures: Tracking parameters like carbon footprint and ecosystem services evaluates the broader impact of agricultural practices.

    What practices can farmers adopt to improve sustainability beyond just increasing yield? (Way forward)

    • Intercropping: Growing multiple crops together (e.g., sugarcane with vegetables) can provide year-round income and enhance soil health.
    • Agroecological Approaches: Practices such as crop rotation, organic farming, and reduced pesticide use help maintain biodiversity and soil fertility.
    • Water Management Techniques: Using methods like drip irrigation and AI-powered tools for optimal irrigation ensures better water use.
    • Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Combining biological, mechanical, and chemical control methods reduces reliance on harmful pesticides.
    • Conservation Agriculture: Techniques such as no-till farming and mulching help improve soil structure and retain moisture.
    • Adopting Climate-Resilient Varieties: Growing drought-tolerant or flood-resistant crop varieties helps mitigate the impacts of climate change.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Discuss the various economic and socio-cultural forces that are driving increasing feminization of agriculture in India. (UPSC IAS/2014)

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  • Economic Indicators and Various Reports On It- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR etc

    A Nobel prize for explaining why nations fail or succeed

    Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Important International Institutions

    Why in the News?

    U.S. economists Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James A. Robinson won the 2024 Economics Nobel for their research on how the formation of institutions influences a nation’s prosperity and economic success.

    What are the key factors that explain why some nations are rich while others are poor?

    • Quality of Institutions: According to the 2024 Nobel laureates, the primary determinant of economic success is the quality of a country’s institutions. Inclusive institutions, which ensure secure property rights, political freedoms, and economic opportunities, tend to promote growth.
    • Rule of Law and Property Rights: When laws protect private property and are enforced impartially, individuals are incentivized to invest and engage in economic activities. Weak or corrupt legal systems can deter investments and slow growth.
    • Political Stability and Governance: Countries with stable, democratic governance structures often provide a conducive environment for economic activities. In contrast, political instability and authoritarianism can hinder development.
    • Geography and Natural Resources: Some scholars argue that geographic factors, such as access to trade routes and natural resource endowment, play a role in shaping a nation’s wealth. However, resource-rich nations can still struggle if their institutions are weak (resource curse).
    • Human Capital and Education: Nations that invest in education and healthcare build a skilled and productive workforce, which can drive long-term economic growth.
    • Technological and Industrial Development: The ability to adopt and innovate technologies is crucial for economic advancement, which historically facilitated the “Great Divergence” during the Industrial Revolution.

    How do historical contexts and colonial legacies impact current economic outcomes?

    • Colonial Institution Setup: Colonizers often set up institutions based on their motivations and local conditions. In places with harsh climates or high disease rates, extractive institutions were established to exploit resources quickly.
    • Impact of Extractive Institutions: In countries where extractive institutions were set up, economic policies often focused on resource extraction and wealth concentration, which led to long-term stagnation. For instance, regions in Africa and South Asia that experienced extractive colonial policies face lasting developmental challenges.
    • Path Dependence: Colonial institutions created trajectories that persisted even after independence. Post-colonial governments often inherited the same extractive structures, leading to continued corruption, inequality, and weak rule of law.
    • Unequal Development: Colonialism exacerbated regional disparities by favouring some areas (urban centres, resource-rich regions) over others, affecting infrastructure development and economic integration.

    What criticisms exist regarding the theories proposed by the Nobel laureates?

    • Oversimplification of Institutional Role: Critics argue that attributing economic success primarily to institutions might ignore other important factors, such as culture, geography, and international trade dynamics, which also significantly shape economic outcomes.
    • Neglect of Global Power Structures: Some scholars believe that focusing on domestic institutions alone overlooks the influence of global economic structures and the power imbalances that exist between countries, which can perpetuate inequality.
    • Limited Consideration of Economic Policies: Critics point out that macroeconomic policies, market dynamics, and state-led development strategies also play a crucial role in determining economic trajectories, beyond institutional quality alone.
    • Debate Over Inclusiveness of “Inclusive Institutions”: Some argue that even countries with ostensibly inclusive institutions (e.g., Western democracies) can exhibit extractive practices, such as unequal wealth distribution, labor exploitation, and environmental degradation.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Institutions with Reforms: Focus on reforming political and economic institutions to promote inclusiveness, transparency, and rule of law, ensuring secure property rights and equal opportunities for all citizens.
    • Address Global Inequities and Support Development: International efforts should aim to reduce global economic disparities by promoting fair trade, debt relief, and development aid.

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  • The Crisis In The Middle East

    Places in news: Jordan Valley

    World Mapping | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

    Jordan Valley

    Why in the News?

    Extremist groups held drone strikes on Israeli territory in the Jordan Valley (which forms Jordan’s border with Israel and the West Bank).

    About Jordan Valley:

    Details
    Geography • Part of the Great Rift Valley, extending from the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea.
    • Forms a natural border between Jordan, Israel, and the West Bank.
    • Low-lying, with parts below sea level, especially near the Dead Sea.
    Climate • Semi-arid to arid, with hot summers and mild winters.
    • Limited rainfall, necessitating irrigation for agriculture.
    Significance • An essential agricultural region, growing citrus, dates, and vegetables.
    • The Jordan River is a vital water source for agriculture and drinking water.
    • Ecological corridor for migratory birds.
    History • Rich in biblical and historical significance, including Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River.
    • Archaeological sites from ancient civilizations like the Canaanites and Romans.
    Geopolitical Aspects • Critical in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with strategic importance for security and border control.
    • Vital for Palestinian economic development and a future state.
    • Shared water resources create tensions between Israel, Jordan, and Syria.
    Economic Activities • Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy.
    • Tourism is also significant due to religious and historical sites.
    Environmental Concerns • Water scarcity and the shrinking Dead Sea due to river diversion are major issues.
    • Pollution and overuse of the Jordan River affect water quality and ecosystem health.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Which one of the following countries of South-West Asia does not open out to the Mediterranean Sea?

    (a) Syria

    (b) Jordan

    (c) Lebanon

    (d) Israel

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  • Trade Sector Updates – Falling Exports, TIES, MEIS, Foreign Trade Policy, etc.

    UAE to review India’s concerns on surge in Silver, Platinum Alloy imports

    Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Why in the News?

    India has raised concerns over the increase in imports of silver products, platinum alloy, and dry dates from the UAE under the Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

    Issues Raised by India:

    • The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has called for an urgent review of the India-UAE CEPA, citing concerns that the agreement allows unlimited imports of gold, silver, platinum, and diamonds with zero tariffs.
    • GTRI claims that many of these imports do not meet Rules of Origin requirements and thus should not qualify for concessions.
      • India’s gold and silver imports from the UAE increased by 210% to $10.7 billion in 2023-24.
      • India allows customs duty concessions of 7% on silver and 1% on 160 metric tonnes of gold under the agreement.
    • India also requested that the Indian Jewellery Exposition Centre in Dubai be classified as a Designated Zone to allow domestic jewellery manufacturers to benefit from concessional duties, including those not registered under UAE’s domestic regulations.
    • India also requested the UAE to grant recognition to the i-CAS (India Conformity Assessment Scheme) Halal scheme to simplify the certification process and boost exports of animal products.
    • The UAE expressed its willingness to review this request after consulting internal stakeholders, including federal tax authorities.

    India-UAE Trade Relations:

    Details
    Volume • The UAE is India’s 3rd largest trading partner with $83.65 billion in bilateral trade in 2023-24.
    • Trade between India and UAE grew from $180 million in the 1970s to $85 billion in 2022-23.
    Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) • Signed in February 2022, making India the first country to sign such an agreement with the UAE.
    • CEPA has slashed tariffs on 80% of goods and offers zero duty access to 90% of Indian exports to the UAE.
    Non-Oil Trade Target • The target of reaching $100 billion in non-oil trade by 2030 is seen as achievable given current growth trends.
    Investment from UAE • UAE’s investments in India are around $20-21 billion, with $15.5 billion as Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
    • The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) has invested in projects like the NIIF Master Fund and renewable energy initiatives.
    India’s Exports to UAE • UAE is India’s 2nd largest export destination after the US, with exports worth $31.61 billion in 2022-23.
    • Key exports include petroleum products, gems, food items, textiles, and engineering goods.
    India’s Imports from UAE • UAE is a critical partner for India’s energy security.
    • India imports petroleum, gems, minerals, and chemicals from UAE.
    • UAE is India’s 4th largest crude oil supplier and 2nd largest for LNG and LPG.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? 

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  • Defence Sector – DPP, Missions, Schemes, Security Forces, etc.

    India-US conclude $3.5bn deal for 31 MQ-9B Armed UAVs

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

    India and the US concluded a $3.5 bn deal for the procurement of 31 MQ-9B armed High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS).

    Why in the News?

    India and the US concluded a $3.5 bn deal for the procurement of 31 MQ-9B armed High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS).

    About MQ-9B HALE UAV

    • The MQ-9B drone is a version of the MQ-9 “Reaper” and has two models: Sky Guardian and Sea Guardian.
    • It is built by the General Atomics.
    • This drone can fly over 40,000 feet high, making it useful for watching the Himalayan border areas.
    • It can stay in the air for up to 40 hours, perfect for long surveillance missions.
    • The MQ-9B has advanced features like automatic take-off and landing, a system to avoid other objects, secure GPS, and encrypted communications.
    • Deployment:
      • The MQ-9B drones are planned to be deployed at four places, including INS Rajaji near Chennai and Porbandar in Gujarat, by the Indian Navy.
      • The other two services will keep them jointly at two bases in Sarsawa and Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh at Air Force bases due to long runway requirements.

    Details of the Procurement:

    • India is planning for 15 Sea Guardians for the Indian Navy and 16 Sky Guardians (eight each for the Indian Army and Air Force).
    • The Indian Navy has leased two MQ-9As with the maiden flight taking place on November 21, 2020.
    • As part of the deal, General Atomics will establish a Global Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India, contributing to offset obligations.

    Significance of the deal

    • The SeaGuardian model can help the Navy patrol large areas more economically than manned aircraft.
    • For the Army and Air Force, these drones will help monitor movements along the borders, especially with China.
    • It can offer 80% of a manned aircraft’s capabilities at 20% of the cost per hour.

    PYQ:

    [2020] What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

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  • LGBT Rights – Transgender Bill, Sec. 377, etc.

    Article 142 of the Indian Constitution

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court declined a PIL seeking directions under Article 142 to include sexual offences against men, trans-persons, and animals in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

    Supreme Court’s Observations:

    • The petitioner argued that the new BNS omitted Section 377 of the IPC, which previously criminalized ‘unnatural sex’ and carnal intercourse involving a man, woman, or animal.
    • In the Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India (2018) case, the Supreme Court struck down Section 377 to the extent that it criminalized consensual sexual acts between adults.
    • Non-consensual homosexual acts remained punishable under this provision.
    • The BNS does not include provisions criminalizing sexual offences against men, trans persons, and animals.
    • During the hearing, the bench comprising CJI DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra stated that:
      • The Court cannot direct Parliament to create or reintroduce an offence.
      • The creation of offences falls within the parliamentary domain, not under the court’s jurisdiction, even with Article 142.

    About Article 142:

    Details
    Definition • Grants discretionary power to the Supreme Court to pass orders or decrees necessary for complete justice in matters before it.
    • Allows the court to act beyond the limits of statutory law if required.
    Purpose • Ensures justice is delivered in cases where regular laws may not provide adequate remedies.
    • Aims to empower the Supreme Court to address extraordinary situations effectively.
    Key Clauses • Article 142(1): Allows the Supreme Court to pass enforceable orders across India for doing complete justice.
    • Article 142(2): Empowers the court to secure attendance, discovery of documents, or punishment for contempt.
    Notable Cases • Bhopal Gas Tragedy (1989): Supreme Court awarded $470 million compensation, bypassing limitations of ordinary law.
    • Ayodhya Case (2019): Directed the formation of a trust for Ram Mandir construction.• Liquor Sale Ban (2016): Imposed a 500-metre ban on liquor shops along highways using Article 142, extending it beyond central government orders.
    Constructive Application • Invoked for environmental protection, such as in the Taj Mahal cleanup.
    • Justice for undertrials by addressing systemic delays in the judicial process.
    Controversies • Accusations of judicial overreach in certain cases, where actions have seemingly breached the separation of powers principle.
    • Supreme Court Bar Association v. Union of India: Clarified that Article 142 should supplement, not replace the law.
    Impact on Governance • Empowers the Supreme Court with a tool for upholding justice, but raises debates over checks and balances in a democratic system.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] With reference to the Constitution of India, prohibitions or limitations or provisions contained in ordinary laws cannot act as prohibitions or limitations on the constitutional powers under Article 142. It could mean which one of the following?

    (a) The decisions taken by the Election Commission of India while discharging its duties cannot be challenged in any court of law.

    (b) The Supreme Court of India is not constrained in the exercise of its powers by laws made by the Parliament.

    (c) In the event of grave financial crisis in the country, the President of India can declare Financial Emergency without the counsel from the Cabinet.

    (d) State Legislatures cannot make laws on certain matters without the concurrence of Union Legislature.

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  • Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.

    How did the Haber-Bosch process change the world?

    Explained | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: S&T – Applications In Everyday Life

    Why in the News?

    One hundred million tonnes of nitrogen are extracted from the atmosphere and transformed into fertilizer through the Haber-Bosch process, adding 165 million tonnes of reactive nitrogen to the soil.

    What is the Nitrogen molecule and how is it availed in Nature?

    • The nitrogen molecule (N2) consists of two nitrogen atoms joined by a triple bond, sharing three pairs of electrons. This triple bond makes the molecule extremely stable and nearly inert, requiring a significant amount of energy (946 kJ/mol) to break.
      • When the triple bond is broken, nitrogen atoms can form reactive nitrogen compounds like ammonia (NH3), ammonium (NH4+), or nitrates (NO3–). 
      • These compounds are essential for plant growth as they help synthesize enzymes, proteins, and amino acids.
    • Lightning generates enough energy to break the N2 triple bond, producing nitrogen oxides (NO and NO2) that can combine with water vapor to form nitric and nitrous acids. These acids add reactive nitrogen to the soil through rainfall.
    • Certain bacteria, such as Azotobacter and Rhizobia, fix atmospheric nitrogen through biological processes.
      • Rhizobia forms symbiotic relationships with legumes, while Azolla, an aquatic fern, also fixes nitrogen via its symbiotic cyanobacterium.

    The Haber-Bosch process synthesizes ammonia by reacting nitrogen (N2) with hydrogen (H2) under high pressure (200 atm) and moderate temperature (200°C), using a catalyst (typically iron oxides).

    What is the Haber-Bosch process?

    • The Haber-Bosch process synthesizes ammonia by reacting nitrogen (N2) with hydrogen (H2) under high pressure (200 atm) and moderate temperature (200°C), using a catalyst (typically iron oxides).
    • The process was developed by Fritz Haber, who found that high pressure and a suitable catalyst were key to converting nitrogen to ammonia efficiently. The setup was scaled up by Carl Bosch, leading to the first ammonia production plant in 1913.

    What are the downsides of fertilizers?

    • Environmental Impact: While synthetic nitrogen fertilizers have significantly increased food production, they have also led to negative environmental effects:
      • Over-fertilization: Excess nitrogen application results in reactive nitrogen being released into the atmosphere, contributing to acid rain and soil degradation.
      • Water Pollution: Nitrogen runoff from agricultural fields enters freshwater and coastal ecosystems, leading to eutrophication, which causes oxygen depletion and harms aquatic life.
      • Human Health Concerns: High nitrogen levels in drinking water can pose health risks.
    • Socio-Economic Challenges: Despite increased food production, issues such as starvation, malnutrition, and unequal food distribution persist, highlighting that technological solutions like fertilisers are insufficient; social and political action is also needed.

    Way forward: 

    • Promote Sustainable Fertilizer Use: Encourage the adoption of precision agriculture techniques, such as soil testing and site-specific nutrient management, to optimize fertilizer application. This approach minimizes over-fertilization, reduces nitrogen runoff, and mitigates environmental damage.
    • Strengthen Policy and Regulatory Frameworks: Governments should implement and enforce policies to regulate nitrogen fertilizer use, ensuring that environmental safety standards are met.

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