02 April 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related Polity 1. Ladakh’s protest; a hunger for justice C. GS 3 Related D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials Economy 1. Solar surge Science and Technology 1. AI in elections, the good, the bad and the ugly Internal Security 1. The PMLA — a law that has lost its way F. Prelims Facts 1. Katchatheevu issue 2. Political reality: everybody loves a Bhojpuri star but the language remains marginal to mainstream politics 3. Team led by PRL Ahmedabad finds ozone on Jupiter's moon G. Tidbits H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
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B. GS 2 Related
Category: POLITY
1. Ladakh’s protest; a hunger for justice
Syllabus: Indian Constitution and Features of Indian Constitution
Prelims: Sixth Schedule
Mains: Reasons for Ladakh’s protest
Context: In Ladakh, the hunger strike led by Sonam Wangchuk highlights the demand for statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. This protest underscores the need for local decision-making powers regarding resources such as land and water, amidst concerns over the impacts of tourism growth and climate change.
Key Demands and Administrative Challenges
- Ladakh’s residents demand statehood or inclusion in the Sixth Schedule to assert control over local resources.
- The formation of Union Territories (UTs) in 2019 stripped Ladakh of its legislative powers, leading to centralized decision-making by non-resident administrators.
- Existing councils like the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs) lack authority under the current administrative setup.
Resource Pressures and Tourism Growth
- Ladakh faces resource strain, particularly in water management, due to rapid urbanization and increasing tourist footfall.
- The rise in domestic tourism, with over five lakh visitors in 2022, exacerbates pressure on water resources and infrastructure.
- Poor water management practices contribute to dependence on contaminated groundwater, especially affecting marginalized communities.
Climate Change Impacts and Environmental Threats
- Ladakh is vulnerable to climate change-induced disasters like floods, landslides, and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs).
- Increasing temperatures and glacier shrinkage heighten the risk of GLOFs, threatening local communities and infrastructure.
- Mining activities and tourism-related pollutants further exacerbate environmental degradation and accelerate glacier melting.
Solutions and Mitigation Measures
- Address administrative challenges by granting Ladakh statehood or inclusion in the Sixth Schedule to empower local decision-making bodies.
- Implement sustainable tourism practices and improve water management infrastructure to mitigate resource pressures.
- Strengthen climate change adaptation measures, including early warning systems and disaster preparedness, to mitigate risks to lives and livelihoods.
Nut Graf: The hunger strike in Ladakh underscores the urgency of addressing administrative and resource management challenges faced by the region. By empowering local governance structures, promoting sustainable tourism, and enhancing climate resilience, Ladakh can navigate the complexities of development while safeguarding its unique environment and cultural heritage.
C. GS 3 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
Category: ECONOMY
1. Solar surge
Syllabus: GS-3, Infrastructure Energy
Mains: Challenges to India’s solar industry
Context: India’s solar industry is undergoing significant changes with the implementation of policies aimed at promoting domestic manufacturing and reducing reliance on imported solar panels. However, the growth of the industry must be balanced with ensuring quality standards are upheld.
Issues
- The government’s policy discourages reliance on imported solar panels and aims to promote domestic manufacturing through the Approved Models and Manufacturers of Solar Photovoltaic Modules Order, 2019.
- India aims to source a substantial portion of its electricity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030, with a significant portion coming from solar power. However, current solar capacity additions fall short of targets.
- The dominance of Chinese imports in the solar market poses challenges to domestic manufacturers, who face competition from cheaper alternatives.
- The implementation of quality checks and certification for domestic manufacturers is crucial to ensure the reliability and performance of solar panels.
Significance
- The growth of India’s solar industry is essential for meeting renewable energy targets and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
- Promoting domestic manufacturing enhances self-reliance and contributes to the country’s economic growth.
- Ensuring quality in solar installations is vital for long-term sustainability and consumer trust in solar energy.
Solutions
- Implement stringent quality checks and certification processes for domestic solar manufacturers to uphold quality standards and reliability.
- Provide support and incentives to domestic manufacturers to enhance competitiveness and production capacity.
- Encourage research and development in solar technology to improve efficiency and reduce costs for domestic manufacturers.
Nut Graf: The promotion of domestic manufacturing in India’s solar industry is a significant step towards achieving renewable energy targets and reducing dependence on imported panels. However, ensuring quality standards are maintained is essential to build consumer trust and sustain long-term growth.
Category: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
1. AI in elections, the good, the bad and the ugly
Syllabus: GS-3, Developments in Science and Technology and Applications of scientific developments in everyday life
Mains: Impact of the use of AI in elections
Context: The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into electoral processes marks a significant evolution in political campaigning, with implications ranging from improved outreach to potential risks of misinformation and manipulation. The 2024 Lok Sabha elections in India are poised to be influenced by AI, reflecting a global trend towards technologically driven electoral strategies.
Social Media and Campaigns
- India’s electoral landscape has continually evolved with technological advancements, from mobile phones to social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp.
- The BJP’s strategic utilization of digital tools in the 2014 and 2019 elections underscored the importance of social media in political campaigns.
- Research has shown correlations between social media engagement and electoral outcomes, highlighting the significance of digital presence for political parties and leaders.
Global Elections, AI, the Dangers
- The emergence of AI-driven tactics in elections poses new challenges, including the spread of disinformation and manipulation.
- Instances of AI-generated robocalls and deepfakes raise concerns about the integrity of electoral processes and the potential impact on voter behaviour.
- Despite efforts by governments and technology companies to address AI-generated content, challenges persist in combating deceptive practices.
The Political Landscape is Changing
- AI’s role in elections extends beyond disinformation, encompassing voter identification, content development, and micro-targeting strategies.
- Real-time analytics enable data-driven campaign decisions, revolutionizing traditional approaches to political campaigning.
- While measures are being taken to mitigate AI-related risks, uncertainties remain regarding its impact on electoral integrity and voter perception.
Significance
- The 2024 Lok Sabha elections in India represent a milestone in the intersection of technology and politics, with AI shaping campaign strategies and voter engagement.
- The global adoption of AI in elections underscores its transformative potential and the need for comprehensive regulatory frameworks to safeguard democratic processes.
Solutions
- Governments and technology companies must collaborate to develop robust mechanisms for detecting and addressing AI-generated misinformation.
- Increased transparency and accountability in political advertising and online content dissemination can enhance trust in electoral processes.
- Education and awareness initiatives can empower citizens to critically evaluate information and resist manipulation in the digital sphere.
Nut Graf: The infusion of AI into electoral processes heralds a new era in political campaigning, characterized by unprecedented opportunities and challenges. As India and other nations prepare for the 2024 elections, it is imperative to navigate the complexities of AI technology with vigilance and foresight, ensuring that democratic principles and electoral integrity are upheld in an increasingly digitized political landscape.
Category: INTERNAL SECURITY
Syllabus: GS-3, Internal Security Challenges in India
Mains: Issues with the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)
Context: The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002 was formulated to combat the global threat posed by the laundering of proceeds from drug crimes. Initially focused on drug money, the law has evolved through amendments, encompassing a broader range of offences.
Background and Enactment
- The PMLA was influenced by international efforts, including UN resolutions and the establishment of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to tackle money laundering.
- Enacted in 2002, it aimed to prevent the laundering of proceeds from drug crimes, in line with UN resolutions.
- The law was enacted under Article 253 of the Indian Constitution, empowering Parliament to implement international conventions.
Issues
- The PMLA now includes numerous offenses unrelated to its original purpose, such as those listed in the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
- Draconian provisions meant for drug traffickers are being applied to a broader spectrum of offenses, including corruption cases.
- The law presumes the accused guilty until proven innocent, contrary to the fundamental principle of jurisprudence.
Significance
- The PMLA’s overreach affects the rights of the accused, leading to prolonged detention without trial.
- The bail provision (Section 45) has been a subject of controversy, being deemed unconstitutional and later restored with amendments.
Solutions
- Review and amend the PMLA to refocus it on its original objective of combating drug money laundering.
- Reassess the inclusion of non-drug-related offenses in the schedule, ensuring alignment with the law’s original intent.
- Revisit the bail provision to ensure it upholds the principles of personal liberty and due process.
Nut Graf: The PMLA, intended to combat the laundering of drug money, has strayed from its original purpose. Its overreach into unrelated offenses and draconian provisions raise concerns about individual rights and due process. Reforms are necessary to realign the law with its original intent and uphold fundamental principles of justice.
F. Prelims Facts
Context: The controversy surrounding the Katchatheevu issue has reignited tensions between the Centre and an opposition party, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar accusing previous regimes of neglecting Indian fishermen’s rights. The debate intensifies as both sides present contrasting views on the matter, bringing historical agreements and recent statements into focus.
Issues
- The Katchatheevu issue stems from the 1974 agreement between India and Sri Lanka, raising concerns over the ceding of the island and its impact on Indian fishermen’s rights.
- Recent statements by PM Modi and EAM Jaishankar criticize previous governments for purportedly disregarding the interests of Indian fishermen and downplaying the significance of the issue.
- The Opposition counters these claims by citing a 2015 RTI reply that suggests the island falls within Sri Lanka’s territory.
Significance
- The dispute over Katchatheevu underscores the complex relationship between India and Sri Lanka, especially concerning maritime boundaries and fishing rights.
- Political implications arise as both the ruling party and the Opposition engage in a war of words ahead of elections, reflecting broader tensions in regional politics.
- The issue holds significance for the livelihoods of Indian fishermen and the diplomatic relations between India and Sri Lanka, necessitating a balanced resolution.
Solutions
- Address the historical grievances and misunderstandings through diplomatic channels, fostering dialogue between India and Sri Lanka.
- Prioritize the welfare of Indian fishermen by advocating for their rights and negotiating agreements that safeguard their interests.
- Avoid politicizing sensitive issues like Katchatheevu for electoral gains, emphasizing the importance of statesmanship and constructive engagement.
Context: The allure of Bhojpuri stars in Indian politics has intensified, with various political parties eager to capitalize on their popularity. Despite its vast number of speakers, Bhojpuri remains marginalized in mainstream politics, prompting calls for its official recognition and inclusion.
Issues
- Despite 5.6 crore speakers in India, Bhojpuri is not included in the Constitution’s Schedule 8 of official languages.
- Political parties are increasingly enlisting Bhojpuri stars as candidates, acknowledging their influence in regions of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
- Bhojpuri stars with large social media followings, like Pawan Singh, Dinesh Lal Yadav, Manoj Tiwari, and Ravi Kishan, are active in politics, emphasizing the language’s cultural significance.
- Despite its cultural significance and widespread usage, Bhojpuri faces neglect in education, government work, and official language status.
- Bhojpuri has developed a unique cultural identity over decades, with its own literature, films, and music.
- It is recognized in Mauritius, Fiji, and Nepal but lacks official recognition in India, affecting educational and literary support.
- Linguists and scholars argue for its inclusion in national education policies and official language lists, given its significant global speakership and cultural importance.
Significance
- The inclusion of Bhojpuri in mainstream politics highlights the growing influence of entertainment industry figures in electoral dynamics.
- The demand for official recognition underscores the linguistic and cultural rights of Bhojpuri speakers, aiming to address their long-standing grievances.
- Bhojpuri’s absence from educational materials and official language lists reflects systemic neglect and underscores the need for proactive measures to promote linguistic diversity.
3. Team led by PRL Ahmedabad finds ozone on Jupiter’s moon
Context: The discovery of ozone on Jupiter’s moon, Callisto, by an international team of scientists, including researchers from India, sheds light on the complex chemical processes occurring on icy celestial bodies in the solar system. This finding has significant implications for understanding the habitability of moons beyond Earth.
Details:
- Scientists have detected ozone on Callisto, suggesting the presence of stable atmospheric conditions conducive to hosting life.
- The study, published in the journal Icarus, investigates the chemical evolution of sulphur dioxide (SO2) ice on Callisto’s surface, leading to the formation of ozone.
- Understanding the presence of ozone on celestial bodies like Callisto provides insights into their potential habitability and the chemical processes occurring in their atmospheres.
Significance
- Ozone plays a crucial role in shielding Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation, making it a key factor in the planet’s habitability. Its detection on Callisto suggests the presence of oxygen, essential for supporting life as we know it.
- The discovery extends our understanding of potential habitable environments beyond Earth, highlighting the significance of studying celestial bodies like Callisto in the search for extraterrestrial life.
- Insights gained from this research contribute to our understanding of planetary formation processes and the evolution of the solar system, informing future studies of similar moons and their potential habitability.
F. Tidbits
Nothing here for today!!!
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the Prevention of Money Laundering Act:
- PMLA empowers the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to investigate money laundering cases.
- Adjudicating Authorities have the power to adjudicate cases related to the confiscation of properties involved in money laundering.
- The Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) is the nodal agency responsible for receiving and disseminating information related to suspicious financial transactions to control Money Laundering.
How many of the statements given above is/are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All the three
- None of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Q2. Consider the following statements about Generative AI:
- Generative AI refers to the ability of AI systems to create new content such as images, music, or text.
- It involves algorithms that learn patterns from existing data and can generate original content.
- Creating realistic deep fake videos by generating facial expressions and movements is possible in Generative AIs.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- All of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Q3. Consider the following statements about the provisions of Schedule Six of the Indian Constitution:
- Schedule Six of the Indian Constitution deals with the demarcation of boundaries between states in India.
- It empowers the creation of Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in specific tribal areas.
- The provisions of Schedule Six are applicable throughout the territory of India.
Which of the following statements is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Q4. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI)?
- SECI is a government agency responsible for promoting solar power projects and facilitating their implementation in India.
- SECI functions under the Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change.
- SECI is responsible for determining tariff rates for solar power in India.
How many of the above statements are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All the three
- None of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Q5. Atal Innovation Mission is set up under the:
a. Department of Science and Technology
b. Ministry of Labour and Employment
c. NITI Aayog
d. Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- Examine the implications of granting the Sixth Schedule status and statehood to Ladakh in the context of its unique geographical, cultural, and ecological characteristics. (10 marks 150 words) (General Studies – II, Polity)
- Discuss the potential benefits and challenges of integrating AI in political campaigns, and suggest measures to ensure ethical use of AI in elections. (10 Marks150 words) (General Studies – III, Science & Technology)
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