26 December 2024 : Daily Current Affairs

1. How the 2004 Indian Ocean quake transformed tsunami science

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)

Topic: GS3 – Disaster Management

Context

The 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, one of the deadliest natural disasters in history, highlighted the vulnerability of coastal regions to massive seismic events. It spurred advancements in tsunami warning systems and scientific research. Lessons learned from this disaster continue to shape global disaster management strategies.

20th Anniversary of the 2004 Indian Ocean Earthquake and Tsunami

Overview of the 2004 Disaster

• On December 26, 2004, a magnitude 9.1 earthquake struck off the coast of Sumatra, triggering one of the deadliest tsunamis in recorded history.
• The earthquake originated 30 km below the ocean floor in the Sunda Trench, where the Indo-Australian plate subducts beneath the Burma microplate.
• The rupture extended over a 1,300 km stretch of the plate boundary, affecting Indonesia, Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and other nations.
• The tsunami impacted 17 countries along the Indian Ocean, causing over 227,000 deaths and displacing 1.7 million people.

Subsequent Disasters and Lessons Learned

• In March 2011, a magnitude 9.1 earthquake off Japan triggered a tsunami and the Fukushima nuclear disaster, showing the ongoing vulnerability to natural disasters.
• The 2004 tsunami highlighted the unpredictability of such events and underscored the necessity for disaster preparedness and resilience.

Scientific Advancements Post-Tsunami

• The 2004 tsunami was a shock to researchers, as it was the first recorded massive tsunami along India’s eastern seaboard.
• The Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC) was set up in 2007, improving earthquake and tsunami monitoring.
• ITEWC operates seismological stations and ocean monitoring systems to issue early warnings for the Indian Ocean region, with alerts sent within 10 minutes of detecting potential tsunami-producing earthquakes.

Impact on Tsunami Research

• The tsunami prompted the development of tsunami geology, with significant findings in India and other countries.
• Excavations in Mahabalipuram uncovered evidence of a tsunami from the same period as the 2004 disaster.
• Researchers studied sedimentary deposits along the coast, discovering more ancient tsunamis and establishing a new scientific field focused on tsunami research.

Nuclear Vulnerabilities and Future Risks

• The 2004 tsunami revealed vulnerabilities in nuclear power plants along India’s coast.
• Though the Kalpakkam nuclear power plant withstood the tsunami, it was automatically shut down due to rising water levels, highlighting potential risks to nuclear facilities.
• Following the Fukushima disaster, the risks to nuclear plants from tsunamis became clearer, spurring calls for increased safety measures.

Emerging Tsunami Risks

• The Makran Coast, spanning Iran and Pakistan, poses a potential tsunami threat to India’s west coast, including Mumbai, where nuclear reactors are located.
• Research has also identified other seismic risks, including slow seismic slips that could provide clues about impending earthquakes and tsunamis, enhancing predictive capabilities.

Ongoing Research and Seismological Milestones

• The 2004 event marked a significant milestone in seismological research, offering valuable data on earthquake generation and related hazards.
• Studies on seismic slips at plate boundaries and pre-earthquake phenomena have advanced, offering new insights into earthquake prediction and risk mitigation strategies.

PYQ: In December 2004, tsunami brought havoc on 14 countries including India. Discuss the factors responsible for the occurrence of Tsunami and its effects on life and economy. In the light of guidelines of NDMA (2010) describe the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events. (250 words/15m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-3 2017)

Practice Question:  Analyze the scientific advancements in tsunami prediction and preparedness post the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami. How have these developments contributed to global disaster risk reduction? (250 Words /15 marks)

2. ₹45,000-cr. Ken-Betwa link project launched

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 1)

Topic: GS1 – Geography, GS3 – Indian Economy – Infrastructure

Context

The Ken-Betwa river-linking project aims to address water scarcity in Bundelkhand by linking two rivers, improving irrigation, drinking water supply, and energy generation. The project involves building canals, dams, hydropower, and solar energy components. It is part of India’s broader water management strategy.

Ken-Betwa River-Linking Project Overview

• Objective:
  • The Ken-Betwa river-linking project aims to resolve the long-standing water scarcity issues in the drought-prone Bundelkhand region, spanning parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
  • The project focuses on linking the Ken and Betwa rivers to ensure a stable and reliable water supply to the region.

Key Components of the Project

• Canal Construction: The primary feature of the project involves constructing a canal to transfer water from the Ken River to the Betwa River. This will ensure water availability for both irrigation and drinking needs in the region.
• Daudhan Dam: The project includes the construction of the Daudhan Dam on the Ken River. The dam will store water, regulate its flow, and supply water for irrigation purposes.
• Hydropower Generation: The project aims to generate over 100 MW of hydropower, which will help meet the region’s electricity demands and contribute to sustainable energy production.
• Solar Power Generation: In addition to hydropower, the project will also generate 27 MW of solar power, promoting clean energy and further supporting the region’s energy needs.

Benefits of the Project

• Water Supply: The project will significantly improve the drinking water supply to at least 10 districts in Madhya Pradesh and several districts in Uttar Pradesh. It will provide a reliable water source for domestic consumption.
• Irrigation: The canal will provide irrigation facilities to approximately 11 lakh hectares of agricultural land. This will enhance agricultural productivity and improve livelihoods for farmers in the region.
• Economic Development: By addressing water and energy needs, the project is expected to stimulate economic growth in the Bundelkhand region, boosting agriculture, energy production, and local infrastructure.

Environmental and Ecological Considerations

• Wildlife and Habitat Protection: The project passes through ecologically sensitive areas such as the Panna Tiger Reserve. Special measures will be implemented to mitigate any potential negative impact on local wildlife and natural habitats.
• Sustainability: The combination of hydropower generation and solar power aligns with the project’s focus on sustainability, reducing the environmental footprint while addressing the water and energy needs of the region.

Strategic Importance

• River-Linking Initiative: This project is a crucial part of India’s larger river-linking strategy, aimed at resolving inter-state water disputes and ensuring long-term water security for drought-prone regions.
• Regional Transformation: By improving water availability, irrigation, and energy access, the project is expected to bring about significant socio-economic development in the Bundelkhand region, fostering overall regional growth.

Practice Question:  Examine the significance of the Ken-Betwa river-linking project for sustainable water management and regional development. Discuss its potential environmental and socio-economic impacts. (150 Words /10 marks)

 

3. ‘We want to be among the top five maritime nations by 2047’

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 5)

Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy – Infrastructure

Context

The article discusses the Indian government’s initiatives and targets for the maritime sector. This includes Maritime Vision 2047, the development of maritime infrastructure, cruise tourism, and legislative reforms. Key reforms like the Coastal Shipping Bill and Merchant Shipping Bill aim to boost India’s maritime capabilities.

Government Initiatives, Missions, and Targets Regarding Maritime Sector

Maritime Vision 2047

• India aims to become a global leader in maritime sectors such as shipbuilding, ship repair, and ship recycling.
  • By 2030, India plans to be among the top 10 maritime nations and top 5 by 2047.
  • The country intends to enhance cargo handling capacity from 1,600 million metric tonnes to 10,000 million metric tonnes by 2047.
  • The vision includes investment of ₹80 lakh crore in the maritime sector over the next 25 years.

Infrastructure Development

• Investment will be directed towards the modernisation of ports, development of green ports, and eco-friendly shipping.
  • The Ministry plans to develop world-class ecosystems in all verticals, including port management systems, cargo handling, and inland waterways.

Cruise Tourism Development

• The government has developed six international cruise terminals with facilities comparable to airports.
  • Tax exemptions and incentives have been introduced to promote cruise tourism.
  • Cruise tourism has been boosted with quality international cruise liners visiting Indian ports.
  • Lighthouse tourism has grown by 273% in 10 years, attracting 16.19 lakh visitors.

National Maritime Heritage Complex

• A major project located in Lothal, Gujarat, this complex will be the world’s largest maritime museum.
  • Phase-1A will open to the public in September 2025, with full completion expected by 2029.
  • The project will include international collaborations for research, preservation, and exchange of maritime knowledge.
  • It is expected to attract 25,000 daily visitors and create 22,000 jobs.

Recent Legislative Reforms

• The Major Port Authority Act, National Waterways Act, Inland Vessel Act, and Recycling of Ships Act have been enacted to streamline growth in the port, waterways, and ship recycling sectors.
  • The Coastal Shipping Bill and Merchant Shipping Bill are set to be enacted to boost coastal shipping, promote shipbuilding, enhance Indian ship ownership, improve coastal security, and ensure seafarer welfare.

Practice Question:  Discuss the key initiatives under the Maritime Vision 2047 to enhance India’s position in the global maritime sector. How will recent legislative reforms like the Coastal Shipping Bill and Merchant Shipping Bill contribute to these goals? (250 Words /15 marks)

4. Judicial Milestones and Challenges: Supreme Court’s Evolving Role in 2024 and Beyond

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 13)

Topic: GS2 – Polity – Judiciary

Context:

The article examines the Supreme Court’s significant rulings and challenges in 2024 while highlighting its evolving role in addressing politically sensitive and constitutional issues.

Analysis of News:             

Judicial Trends in 2024: A Shift in Approach

• The Supreme Court’s approach in 2024 marked a shift from earlier criticisms of “judicial evasion.”
• Significant verdicts included striking down the electoral bonds scheme, curbing illegal demolitions, and granting bail in politically sensitive cases.
• Long-pending constitutional issues, such as the minority status of Aligarh Muslim University and industrial alcohol taxation, were also addressed.
• These actions indicate an effort to uphold judicial independence and address systemic issues despite political pressures.

Challenges for 2025: Short Tenures of CJIs

• The Supreme Court faces administrative challenges in 2025 with three Chief Justices occupying the position in succession.
• Short tenures could limit continuity in addressing institutional issues like pendency and reforms.
• Justice Chandrachud’s digital infrastructure overhaul, however, sets a precedent for leveraging technology to enhance transparency and efficiency.

Religious Disputes and Pending Cases

• Places of Worship Act: The constitutional challenge to the 1991 Act, which freezes the religious character of places of worship as of 1947, raises critical questions on secularism and judicial review.
• Hijab Ban: A three-judge Bench will revisit the split verdict on Karnataka’s headscarf ban, addressing personal liberty versus essential religious practices.
• Essential Religious Practice Test: The review of the doctrine’s application will influence cases involving Parsi women’s rights and Muslim women’s entry into mosques.

Societal and Legal Issues

• Citizenship Act Challenge: The exclusion of Muslims in the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, raises concerns about equality and secularism. The SC’s framing of citizenship in terms of fraternity and plurality will be pivotal.
• Marital Rape Exception: The debate over criminalizing non-consensual sex within marriage continues to spark discussions on women’s autonomy and legal protections.

Revisiting Enforcement Directorate’s Powers

• The SC’s recent rulings mandating procedural safeguards in ED cases and the pending review of the Vijay Madanlal Choudhary judgment signal increased scrutiny of the agency’s expansive powers, impacting investigations and arrests.

Key Legislative and Policy Developments

• New Criminal Laws: The replacement of colonial-era laws introduces progressive changes but raises concerns about sedition laws, detention periods, and the exclusion of protections under Section 377. Judicial review of these provisions will shape their implementation.
• Uniform Civil Code: The implementation of UCC in Uttarakhand and other BJP-ruled states brings contentious provisions into focus, particularly around live-in relationships and personal law. Judicial scrutiny will test the balance between state authority and individual rights.

Outlook: Balancing Law and Politics

• The Supreme Court in 2025 will continue to navigate politically charged cases and legislative challenges, testing its role as the guardian of constitutional values amid shifting socio-political dynamics.

What measures can be taken to reform the Judiciary?

Some measures that can be taken to reform the judiciary are Transparency in Appointment: Law Commission of India (LCI) 2009 recommended that the executive and judiciary should function together to find the most suitable (candidates) available for appointment. This can be achieved by combining the legal acumen of the judiciary, and in the area of antecedents, the executive’s opinion should be dominant. Reducing pendency: LCI (2009) recommended that:Maximum Strength of the Judges in the Supreme Court should be increased.The need to divide the Supreme Court into a Constitution Bench at Delhi and Cassation Benches in four regions at Delhi, Chennai/Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai to ensure timely Justice delivery.Constitutional provisions need a change to enhance the retirement age of High Court and Supreme Court Judges by at least three years.Increasing the number of Judges to maintain a healthy Judge-population ratio – 50 per million. Optimum time utilization: LCI (2009) recommended:Considering the staggering arrears, vacations in the higher judiciary must be curtailed by at least 10 to 15 days and the court working hours should be extended by at least half-an-hour. Judicial Impact Assessment: Make judicial impact assessment compulsory whenever new laws are made. Increase the use of the ADR mechanism and Plea Bargaining: Building awareness among litigants and prospective litigants about ADR processes and encouraging out-of-court settlements. All India Judicial Services (AIJS): It is aproposed national-level judicial service in India. It aims to create a unified and centralized system for the recruitment and career progression of judicial officers in the country. Judicial Management cadre: A Judicial Management Cadre to manage judiciary administration at all levels can be established. National Judicial Infrastructure Authority: FormerChief Justice of India N V Ramanna, in his remarks, said a National Judicial Infrastructure Authority should be created for the standardization and improvement of judicial infrastructure. Simplifying procedural laws: Simplifying procedural laws to expedite the hearing and disposal of cases and to improve and bring clarity to substantive laws by repealing/amending outdated/unworkable laws. Improve the functioning of Fast Track Courts: A two-pronged approach that improves the human capacity of these courts with dedicated judges and competent staff while restructuring processes is needed. Setting up an independent mechanism for legal services: Legal services can be entrusted to the Executive Wing of the Government for implementation, in consultation with the High Court/other stakeholders, by an appropriate amendment to the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1976. Timely Justice to Undertrials: Undertrials can be provided speedy justice by providing adequate opportunities for bail. The Supreme Court held that “bail is the norm, whereas jail is an exception”. Increase representation of women in the Judicial System: Former CJI N V Ramana has voiced support for 50% representation for women in the judiciary. He remarked that “the presence of women as judges and lawyers, will substantially improve the justice delivery system. Legal Education: Improving Legal Education and providing for compulsory apprenticeship to members of the Bar. Research and Training Centre: A Research and Training Centre for improving legislative drafting, conducting Judicial Impact Assessments, and training Law Officers of the Government can be established. Prompt Investigation and Prosecution: The functioning of investigating agencies (Police) and prosecuting agencies (Directorate of Prosecution) should be improved to ensure proper and timely investigation and prosecution.

PYQ: With reference to National Legal Services Authority, consider the following statements: (2013) Its objective is to provide free and competent legal services to the weaker sections of the society on the basis of equal opportunity. It issues guidelines for the State Legal Services Authorities to implement the legal programmes and schemes throughout the country. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Ans: (c)

Practice Question:  Evaluate the Supreme Court’s role in addressing politically sensitive cases and constitutional challenges in 2024, highlighting its impact on judicial independence and the balance of power between the judiciary and the executive. (250 words/15 m)

5. The Future Hub of Global Entrepreneurship

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 4)

Topic: GS2 – Governance – Government Initiatives, GS3 – Indian Economy

Context

India has emerged as a global leader in startups, ranking as the 3rd largest startup hub. Government initiatives and a dynamic workforce have driven innovation in sectors like fintech, edtech, and health-tech. India’s growing startup ecosystem is gaining global recognition.

India’s Position in the Global Startup Landscape:

• India is the 3rd largest startup hub globally, with over 100 unicorns and more than 73,000 startups with at least one woman director.
• Nearly half of India’s 1,57,066 startups are supported by the government under the Startup India Initiative, highlighting the significant role women play in driving innovation.

Growth and Transformation:

• Over the past decade, India has seen a paradigm shift in its entrepreneurial spirit, with cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi-NCR becoming innovation hubs.
• The widespread availability of affordable internet and a dynamic, young workforce have fueled growth across sectors like fintech, edtech, health-tech, and e-commerce.

Emerging Technologies:

• Indian startups are leveraging emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to address both local and global challenges.
• The startup ecosystem is supported by incubators, accelerators, and mentoring networks, creating a bridge between grassroots issues and advanced technological solutions.

Government Initiatives:

• The Indian government has introduced several initiatives to support entrepreneurship, with the Startup India program being a cornerstone.
• As of December 25, 2024, 157,066 startups have been recognized under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
• Key features of the program include ease of doing business, tax benefits, funding support through the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), and sector-specific policies.
• Platforms like BHASKAR have streamlined collaboration among key stakeholders in the ecosystem.

Support for Innovation:

• Initiatives like the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) and NIDHI provide infrastructure and financial support to innovators.
• The SAMRIDH scheme, launched in 2021, aims to support 300 software product startups with funding up to ₹40 lakh per startup.

Impact on the Economy:

• Startups have created over 1.6 million jobs, contributed to GDP growth, and attracted significant foreign investments.
• Rural-focused startups are improving healthcare, education, and agriculture, promoting inclusivity.

Global Impact and Success:

• Indian startups like BYJU’S, Zomato, Ola, and Nykaa have expanded globally, showcasing India’s ability to scale and compete worldwide.
• Indian-origin startups in Silicon Valley further highlight India’s global influence, with innovations like UPI and Aadhaar inspiring global solutions.

India’s Path Forward:

• With a young, educated population, growing middle class, and increasing digital penetration, India is positioned for exponential growth.
• The country’s focus on fostering innovation and its investor-friendly environment make it a leader in the global startup ecosystem.

Practice Question:  Discuss the key factors driving the growth of India’s startup ecosystem and the role of government initiatives in fostering innovation. How can India’s startup landscape contribute to its economic development and global influence? (250 Words /15 marks)

Prelims Facts

1. Scientists find bacteria living on fish brains

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)

Context

A new study challenges the long-held belief that the brain is sterile by revealing that bacteria can thrive in fish brains. This discovery suggests the possibility of a brain microbiome in vertebrates, including humans.

Analysis of the news:

• A study by the University of New Mexico challenges the belief that the brain is sterile, showing bacteria can thrive in fish brains.
• Researchers identified living bacteria in fish olfactory bulbs and other brain regions using DNA extraction and microscopic imaging.

Origins of Brain Microbes:

• Some bacteria may have colonized the brain before the evolution of the blood-brain barrier, while others likely entered via the gut or bloodstream, continuously infiltrating the brain.
• The brain’s microbial community appears dynamic, shaped by both early colonization and ongoing interaction with other bodily systems.

Implications for Humans:

• While fish are different from humans, the findings raise questions about whether a similar brain microbiome might exist in humans and other vertebrates.
• The study may also reveal potential roles for microbes in brain processes, similar to the gut-brain axis.

2. Centre yet to formally scrap FMR with Myanmar

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 4)

Context

The Union Home Ministry has introduced new guidelines to regulate cross-border movement along the India-Myanmar border, reducing the Free Movement Regime (FMR) limit to 10 km. This follows concerns over security and demographic issues in northeastern India, especially in states like Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram. The new protocol aims to ensure better control over border activities.

What is FMR?

• FMR stands for Free Movement Regime, a bilateral arrangement between India and Myanmar.
• Introduced in 1968, it allowed people living within 16 km of the border to move freely across the India-Myanmar border.

• The FMR facilitated cross-border movement for individuals with familial and ethnic ties between the two countries.
• In 2004, the free movement limit was reduced from 40 km to 16 km.
• The regime was temporarily suspended in 2023 to address security concerns and demographic changes in northeastern India.
• New guidelines have been introduced to regulate movement with stricter protocols, including a border pass system and biometric checks at designated entry and exit points.

3. U.S. and China renew S&T Agreement

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 10)

Context

The U.S. and China extended their 1979 science and technology cooperation agreement for five more years, emphasizing basic research and mutual benefits. The renewal seeks to address concerns about technology exports and intellectual property. The agreement continues to shape bilateral scientific relations.

Initial Agreement:

• Signed on January 31, 1979, by U.S. President Jimmy Carter and Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping.
• Established during the early days of U.S.-China diplomatic relations.
• Focused initially on agricultural research and technology.

Renewal and Extension:

• Renewed every five years, with the most recent extension on December 13, 2024.
• The renewed agreement includes a protocol to amend it, reflecting current concerns.

Purpose and Scope:

• Promotes scientific collaboration between the U.S. and China.
• Encourages joint research, mobility for students and scientists, and institutional cooperation.
• Governed by the U.S.-PRC Joint Commission on Scientific and Technological Cooperation.

Recent Amendments:

• The collaboration will be confined to basic research and areas of mutual benefit.
• Excludes critical and emerging technologies to prevent disproportionate benefits to China.
• Includes provisions to enhance researcher safety and data reciprocity.

Significance for U.S. and China:

• Both nations have benefited from the Agreement, with China significantly advancing its scientific position.
• U.S. gains in terms of collaboration and retaining leverage over China’s technological rise.

4. Boxing Day: A Celebration of Sports and Festive Tradition

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 13)

Context:

Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26, has evolved into a globally cherished date for sports, marked by iconic fixtures in cricket and football.

Analysis of News:                                                                       

Origins of Boxing Day

• Boxing Day traces its roots to Victorian England, where it was marked by charitable gestures.
• Employers gave their workers gifts or tips in “boxes,” and the church distributed collected donations to the poor. Declared a bank holiday in 1871, Boxing Day became synonymous with leisure and frolic, especially for the working class, laying the groundwork for its association with sports.

Boxing Day in Football

• Football has the longest Boxing Day tradition, with the first recorded match between Sheffield FC and Hallam FC in 1860.
• By the late 19th century, Boxing Day fixtures became integral to the Football League.
• Matches were held on both December 25 and 26 until the 1950s, when Christmas Day games were discontinued due to players’ demands for family time.

Boxing Day in Cricket

• In cricket, Boxing Day holds special significance in Australia. While state-level matches between Victoria and New South Wales date back to the 1860s, the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) became a permanent feature only after 1979, driven by Kerry Packer’s commercialization efforts.
• The 1968/69 Test at MCG was the first to be held on Boxing Day, but the tradition solidified in 1995.
  
  
• This annual event draws massive crowds, often reaching record numbers, making it a centerpiece of the global cricketing calendar. Other attempts to establish Boxing Day cricket fixtures, including in England, have been thwarted by unsuitable winter conditions.

Cultural and Sporting Legacy

• Boxing Day’s sports culture reflects its origins as a holiday for the working class.
• The day continues to symbolize festive revelry, with cricket and football offering thrilling spectacles.
• Whether in the stadium or on television, it remains a cherished date for sports enthusiasts worldwide.

For more such UPSC-related Current Affairs, Check Out- 24 December 2024: Daily Current Affairs