06 Apr 2022: UPSC Exam Comprehensive News Analysis

CNA 6 April 2022:- Download PDF Here

TABLE OF CONTENTS

A. GS 1 Related
B. GS 2 Related
POLITY AND GOVERNANCE
1. The Indian Antarctic Bill and its various provisions
2. SC to soon take up case against poll bonds scheme
C. GS 3 Related
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
1. The recombinant variants of SARS-CoV-2
D. GS 4 Related
E. Editorials
POLITY AND GOVERNANCE
1. Strengthen Secularism, save the republic
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. Sri Lanka’s Economic Recovery
F. Prelims Facts
1. ‘BrahMos sale to Philippines a bilateral deal’
G. Tidbits
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
FIP Magazine

2. SC to soon take up case against poll bonds scheme

Syllabus: Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability

Prelims: Electoral Bonds scheme

Mains: Concerns with Electoral Bonds scheme

Context: 

Recently, the Chief Justice of India admitted that the court had wanted to take up a long-pending challenge against the government’s electoral bonds scheme but it was not possible due to the pandemic.

What is the issue?

An advocate representing the petitioner, Association for Democratic Reforms, informed the Chief Justice of India that the electoral bonds scheme had been pending for a year without a hearing. 

What are the concerns raised?

  • “Unlimited donations from individuals and foreign companies to political parties without any record of the sources of funding,” according to the electoral bonds scheme and amendments in the Finance Act of 2017, allows for “unlimited donations from individuals and foreign companies to political parties without any record of the sources of funding.”
  • In 2019, the Indian Election Commission filed an affidavit claiming that the government’s political funding scheme legalized anonymity.
  • Electoral bonds conceal the identities of political contributors and recipients of contributions. 
  • Donors who contribute less than Rs. 20,000 to political parties through the purchase of electoral bonds are not required to provide personal information such as their PAN.
  • The government has justified the scheme by claiming that it will increase transparency in political party funding and donations. It had defended the scheme as a way to get rid of dirty money in politics.

Know more about Electoral Bonds.

Nut Graf
The government had described the electoral bonds scheme as an “electoral reform” in a country moving towards a “cashless-digital economy”. However, concerns have been raised in terms of transparency and credibility of the electoral bonds protecting the identity of political donors and parties receiving the contributions. These issues must be addressed and resolved for democracy to be truly meaningful.

E. Editorials

Category: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Strengthen Secularism, save the republic

Syllabus: Indian Constitution – significant provisions and basic structure

Prelims: Fundamental Rights, Fundamental Duties, facts about secularism

Mains: Analysing India as a secular state and ways to retain the secular framework. 

Context: In the wake of several controversies surrounding the constitutionality of donning a hijab in educational institutions, the necessity of strengthening the doctrine of secularism has been sensed. 

The Background:

  • The three-judge bench of the Karnataka High Court declared that “hijab” is not an essential religious practice upholding the state government’s order on adhering to uniforms in educational institutions. 
  • This was in response to the petition against the government order of banning “hijab” in educational institutions stating it as a violation of the Fundamental Rights guaranteed by the Constitution. 
  • The order of banning hijab in educational institutions has been perceived by the petitioners as a violation of the following provisions of the Constitution:
    • Article 14 – Right to equality
    • Article 15 – No discrimination over faith
    • Article 19 – Right to freedom of speech and expression
    • Article 21 – Protection of life & personal liberty
    • Article 25 – Freedom of religion
  • The court dismissed the petitioners’ grounds on violation of fundamental rights calling it too far-fetched to argue that the school dress code militates against the fundamental rights. 
  • The judgement asserted that all rights have to be viewed in the light of contextual conditions which were framed under the Constitution and the manner in which they evolved over a period of time. The fundamental rights have relative content and their efficacy levels depend upon the circumstances in which they are to be exercised. 
  • It has been highlighted through the judgement that school uniforms promote harmony and spirit of common brotherhood transcending religious or sectional diversities. 
  • Besides, homogeneity in school regulations is essential for the development of scientific temperament that is envisaged through Fundamental Duties of the Constitution. 

Read more about the hijab issue in CNA dated February 7, 2022.

Looking into the Political Dimension: The Challenges

  • The political dimension of the “hijab” issue will continue to be an impediment towards the secular ecosystem of the society. 
  • The underlying fact of the entire issue is clear as Hindu and Sikh women of north India cover their heads on all occasions like marriages, funerals, religious ceremonies and so on. 
  • It is evident that the sudden occurence of this controversy has been backed by political intentions and reflects an insidious intolerance which is not a specific characteristic of the majority religious community. 
  • According to experts, there is a transformation that is emerging in Indian society wherein a piece of cloth is sufficient to ignite a fight against the communities. 
  • Such a scenario can be a detrimental blow towards traditional tolerance, pluralism and most importantly the very ethos of unity in diversity. 

The moral set up of India:

  • The Indian subcontinent has always been enlightened with the recognition of upholding the true spirit of secularism. 
  • People from various parts of the world have been welcomed by India with enormous warmth and were allowed to reside in this country in peace and amity for millennia. 
  • As promulgated by the Buddha, tolerance towards other faiths and compassion towards fellow beings have been an integral part of Indian tradition. 
  • The moral fabric of India draws excerpts from the teachings of Gautama Buddha. 
  • Keeping pace with the present hour, the article determines a much needed attention to the emerging shift in the socio-political framework of India that targets those historic practices of tolerance, acceptance, brotherhood and indiscriminate approach. 

To get a precise understanding of the Teachings of Buddha, follow the link.

  • The moral framework of India is also echoed through Equality, Justice and Fraternity of the Constitution.
  • Such moral principles have been the fundamental basis of several revolutions like the modern European Renaissance. 

What is the constitutional basis of secularism?

  • Secularism in the light of the Indian Constitution is based on the principle that the state has no religion. 
  • The Indian state was beautifully organised on this foundational principle. 
  • As a result of the landmark judgement of Keshavananda Bharati case, the secular character of the Constitution was incorporated as a part of the Basic Structure Doctrine. 
  • The word ‘secular’ was added to the Preamble by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act. 

Explore the concept of Secularism comprehensively in the linked article.

The need to retain Secularism:

  • India, being a multi-religious country with the largest minority population, would be disintegrated if it transforms into a theocratic state. 
  • A theocratic state functions on the basis of religious laws which may lead to massive injustice as a theocratic state will not confer the citizens with equality before law and equal protection of law. 
  • Therefore, secularism is indispensable to keep the nation integrated and united in the midst of diversity. 

  A foundational principle: A conclusive stand

  • It is the moral duty of every enlightened citizen to acknowledge the significance of secularism in the sustainability of our national unity. 
  • Forces that attempt to transform India into a theocratic one must be made to realise that the aftermath will not only give rise to massive internal disturbances but also tarnish India’s secular image in the international community which may affect its bilateral relations with various countries. 
  • In the midst of the neighbouring countries that possess a state religion, India sparkles with the glory of secularism upholding the spirit of unity in diversity and not unity in uniformity. 
  • Such a secular spirit must be strengthened for the nation to stand as one with unity, compassion and harmony.

Nut Graf
India, in order to sustain as a nation, is required to strengthen secularism where the state has no religion and does not promote any religion. This will uphold the constitutional values that are very much in favour of secularism.

Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

1. Sri Lanka’s Economic Recovery

Syllabus: India and its neighbourhood-relations

Mains: Need for a political change in Sri Lanka and relevant lessons that can be applied in India’s socio-political scenario. 

Context: Sri Lanka is witnessing a major economic crisis that can be possibly recovered through a political revolution. 

Details:

  • With the growing agony among people and the ongoing unrest, accountable political leadership is a requirement of essence. 
  • As the protestors demand wholesale regime change, the present government has lost public support and confidence. 
  • This gives rise to a significant question about the opposition’s willingness to form an alternative dispensation. 

Ways Suggested:

  • Considering the urgency of the situation, the country needs a meticulous plan for economic recovery to approach international lenders who can extend their support. 
  • The focus must be on the establishment of macroeconomic stability.
  • The ongoing regime has to be replaced by a concerned and accountable one that will cater to the needs of the economic growth of the country. 
  • Economists infer that Sri Lanka is at the crossroads of an economic crisis wherein, on one hand, it may lead to a debt trap and on the other hand, the present unrest can create an avenue for a change in political and administrative paradigm. 
  • It is time for an inclusive outlook that needs to be fostered among the people of Sri Lanka. There needs to be a realisation that voting on the grounds of emotions associated with race and religion will only serve the interest of the political class and obstruct the growth and development of the countrymen.
  • Therefore, a momentous socio-political change will lead to their economic emancipation. 

Read the details of the Sri Lankan Crisis in CNA dated 22 March 2022.

Nut Graf
Unless there is a momentous reform on the political and social level ensuring political credibility, it will be difficult for Sri Lanka to recover from the ongoing economic crisis.

F. Prelims Facts

1. ‘BrahMos sale to Philippines a bilateral deal’

Syllabus: GS3: Security Challenges: Defense equipment

Prelims: Brahmos

Context:  India has signed a deal to export the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile to the Philippines.

Details:

  • BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile that was a joint development between India and Russia.
  • The sale of the systems to the Philippines was a transaction between the two countries, and India would be able to move ahead on a “bilateral basis”.

Know more about BrahMos Missile.

G. Tidbits

Nothing here for today!!!

H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions

Q1. With reference to ‘Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)’, 
consider the following statements:
  1. It is an organization of the European Union in working relation with NATO and WHO.
  2. It monitors the chemical industry to prevent new weapons from emerging.
  3. It provides assistance and protection to States (Parties) against chemical weapons threats.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 1 and 3 only
  4. 1, 2 and 3
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: b

Explanation:

  • The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) is the implementing body for the Chemical Weapons Convention, which entered into force on 29 April 1997.
  • Organization for the Prohibitions of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) is an intergovernmental organization and the implementing body for the Chemical Weapons Convention. It is not under the European Union. Hence statement 1 is incorrect.
  • It monitors the chemical industry to prevent new weapons from emerging. Hence statement 2 is correct.
  • It provides assistance and protection to States Parties against chemical weapons threats. Hence statement 3 is correct.
Q2. Consider the following statements with regards to Mullaperiyar Dam:
  1. It is located at the confluence of the Mullayar and Periyar rivers in Kerala’s Idukki district.
  2. It is operated and maintained by Tamil Nadu for meeting the drinking water and irrigation requirements of its southern districts.
  3. The dam intends to divert the waters of the east-flowing river Periyar westward to the arid rain shadow regions of Tamil Nadu.

Choose the correct code:

  1. 1 & 2 only
  2. 2 & 3 only
  3. 1 & 3 only
  4. All of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: a

Explanation:

  • In Kerala’s Idukki district, the Mullaperiyar, a 123-year-old dam, sits at the confluence of the Mullayar and Periyar rivers. Hence statement 1 is correct.
  • Tamil Nadu operates and maintains it to meet the drinking water and irrigation needs of five of the state’s southern districts. The operational rights were given to Tamil Nadu under a 999-year lease agreement signed during British rule. Hence statement 2 is correct.
  • The dam will divert the waters of the west-flowing river Periyar eastward (NOT westward), into Tamil Nadu’s arid rain shadow regions. Hence statement 3 is incorrect.
Q3. Consider the following statements with regards to ‘Electoral Bonds’:
  1. These bonds protect the identity of political donors and parties receiving the contributions.
  2. Donors who contribute less than ₹20,000 to political parties through the purchase of electoral bonds need not provide their identity details, such as Permanent Account Number (PAN).
  3. The electoral bonds scheme and amendments in the Finance Act of 2017 allow for “unlimited donations from individuals and foreign companies to political parties without any record of the sources of funding”.

Choose the correct statements:

  1. 1 & 2 only
  2. 2 & 3 only
  3. 1 & 3 only
  4. All of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: d

Explanation:

  • Electoral bonds are interest-free bearer instruments used to donate money anonymously to political parties. 
  • The electoral bonds will not bear the name of the donor. Thus, the political party might not be aware of the donor’s identity.
  • Donors who contribute less than Rs. 20,000 to political parties through the purchase of electoral bonds are not required to provide personal information such as their PAN.
  • The electoral bonds scheme, as well as amendments to the Finance Act of 2017, allow for “unlimited donations from individuals and foreign companies to political parties with no record of the sources of funding.”
  • Hence all the statements are correct.
Q4. Which of the following is not an ideal condition for the cultivation of cotton?
  1. Temperature: Between 21-30°C
  2. Rainfall: Around 50-100cm
  3. Soil Type: Well-drained Laterite soil of Deccan Plateau
  4. It requires at least 210 frost-free days
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: c

Explanation:

  • Cotton is a tropical or subtropical crop grown in the country’s semi-arid regions (mainly in the Deccan Plateau). Its growth necessitates a high temperature and plenty of sunlight. During the flowering stage of cotton, a clear sky is required.
  • Cotton cultivation is harmed by hard frost, which necessitates at least 210 frost-free days.
  • Only light rain (50 to 100 centimetres) is acceptable. Cotton can also be grown in an irrigated environment.
  • Loamy Fertile Black soil (NOT Laterite) with adequate aeration cracks. Fertile alluvial soil is also beneficial. 
  • Temperatures range from 21 to 30 degrees Celsius, with plenty of sunshine. It would be preferable if the land had a slight incline to allow excess water to drain.
  • Hence option C is correct.
Q5. Wellesley established the Fort William College at Calcutta because [UPSC 2020]
  1. he was asked by the Board of Directors at London to do so
  2. he wanted to revive interest in oriental learning in India
  3. he wanted to provide William Carey and his associates with employment
  4. he wanted to train British civilians for administrative purpose in India
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: d

Explanation:

  • Until the 1700s, the Company had paid little heed to training its employees. The ‘Indiamen’, as they were called, were drawn from a small pool of British families who were friends and relatives of those already involved with the Company, and there was little focus on their knowledge or abilities. 
  • By the 1800s, the British territories in India had expanded greatly and there was an urgent need for a more thoroughly organized administration.
  • This required trained men who could not only communicate in the local languages but also understand the country and the people they were rapidly gaining control over. It was to train these British officials that Fort William College was established by Lord Richard Wellesley (Governor-General of Bengal from 1798 to 1805) in 1800.
  • The college aimed to create civil servants who were familiar with Indian languages, history, culture and local laws. Alongside, they would also receive training in Western languages and the art of administration.
  • Hence option D is correct.

I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions

  1. Sri Lanka’s economic crisis has amplified its social and political divisions. Examine. (250 words; 15 marks) [GS 2, IR]
  2. India, as a nation, can survive only as a secular state — where the state has no religion and does not promote any religion. Critically evaluate. (250 words; 15 marks) [GS 2, Polity]

Read the previous CNA here.

CNA 6 April 2022:- Download PDF Here

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