27 Apr 2024: UPSC Exam Comprehensive News Analysis

27 April 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

A. GS 1 Related
B. GS 2 Related
POLITY
1. SC backs EVMs, rules out revival of paper ballots
2. Not possible to pre-programme EVMs: court
3. SC seeks EC reply on petition for fresh poll if NOTA gets most votes
C. GS 3 Related
D. GS 4 Related
E. Editorials
POLITY
1. Trust in machines
F. Prelims Facts
1. Study says solar radiation available for producing power falling in India
2. IUCN representative to be an observer in Nilgiri Tahr survey
G. Tidbits
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
FIP Magazine

2. Not possible to pre-programme EVMs: court

Syllabus: Elections in India

Prelims: EVMs

Mains: Technology used in EVMs 

Context​: The Supreme Court’s recent pronouncement underscores the pivotal role of electronic voting machines (EVMs) in modernizing the electoral process while addressing historical challenges such as booth-capturing. The court’s affirmation of the efficacy of EVMs in curbing electoral malpractices and expediting the voting and counting process is significant in the context of India’s democratic evolution.

Issues

  • Efficacy of EVMs: Despite widespread adoption, doubts persist regarding the integrity and vulnerability of EVMs to tampering, necessitating judicial scrutiny and validation.
  • Concerns over Booth-Capturing: The spectre of booth-capturing, a relic of India’s electoral past, looms large as stakeholders evaluate the efficacy of EVMs in preventing such malpractices.
  • Logistical and Administrative Challenges: Challenges such as paper usage, logistical constraints, and errors in the counting process necessitate a comprehensive assessment of the benefits and limitations of EVMs.

Significance

  • Modernization of Electoral Process: The court’s recognition of the benefits of EVMs underscores their role in modernizing the electoral process and enhancing its efficiency, transparency, and credibility.
  • Prevention of Electoral Malpractices: By restricting the rate of vote casting and providing real-time monitoring capabilities, EVMs serve as a bulwark against electoral malpractices such as booth-capturing, thereby safeguarding the sanctity of elections.
  • Administrative Convenience: The adoption of EVMs streamlines the voting and counting process, minimizes errors, and reduces logistical challenges associated with traditional paper ballots, thus enhancing administrative convenience and efficiency.

Solutions

  • Enhanced Public Awareness: Educating stakeholders about the robustness and integrity of EVMs is crucial in dispelling misconceptions and fostering trust in the electoral process.
  • Technological Safeguards: Continual advancements in EVM technology, coupled with stringent quality control measures and regular audits, are imperative to ensure the security and reliability of the electoral infrastructure.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Promoting dialogue and collaboration between election authorities, political parties, civil society organizations, and the judiciary can facilitate the development of consensus-driven solutions to enhance the integrity and credibility of elections.

Nut Graf: The Supreme Court’s assertion regarding the impossibility of pre-programming EVMs in a spurious manner reaffirms the efficacy of EVMs in safeguarding the integrity of elections and preventing electoral malpractices. As India continues its democratic journey, concerted efforts to strengthen the institutional framework, enhance public confidence, and leverage technological innovations will be indispensable in upholding the sanctity of the electoral process.

3. SC seeks EC reply on petition for fresh poll if NOTA gets most votes

Syllabus: Elections in India

Prelims: NOTA

Mains: Significance of NOTA provisions

Context​: The Supreme Court’s recent directive to the Election Commission (EC) regarding a plea for fresh elections in constituencies where the “None of the Above” (NOTA) option garners the majority of votes underscores the evolving debate surrounding electoral reforms and the role of NOTA in India’s democratic process.

Issues

  • Validity of NOTA: The plea raises questions about the validity and implications of NOTA as a voting option, particularly in cases where it secures the majority of votes in an election.
  • Debarment of Candidates: The petition advocates for the imposition of penalties on candidates who receive fewer votes than NOTA, proposing a five-year debarment from contesting elections.
  • Uniform Application of Rules: Discrepancies in the treatment of NOTA across different states highlight the need for uniformity in electoral rules and procedures regarding NOTA.

Significance

  • Democratic Expression: NOTA provides voters with the option to express dissatisfaction with all available candidates, thereby promoting democratic principles of choice and accountability.
  • Electoral Reforms: The petition’s call for penalties on candidates receiving fewer votes than NOTA reflects a push for electoral reforms aimed at enhancing accountability and discouraging candidates with inadequate public support from contesting elections.
  • Uniformity in Electoral Practices: Ensuring uniformity in the application of NOTA rules across states is essential for upholding the consistency and fairness of the electoral process nationwide.

Solutions

  • Standardization of Rules: The EC should consider standardizing rules regarding the treatment of NOTA across all states, ensuring consistency and clarity in electoral practices.
  • Public Awareness: Educating voters about the significance and implications of NOTA can empower them to make informed choices and exercise their democratic rights effectively.
  • Stakeholder Consultation: Engaging with stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and legal experts, can facilitate the development of consensus-driven solutions to address the concerns raised regarding NOTA and its impact on elections.

Nut Graf: The Supreme Court’s intervention in response to the plea regarding NOTA underscores the ongoing discourse surrounding electoral reforms and the evolving role of voter expression in India’s democratic process. As the EC deliberates on the issues raised, it is imperative to prioritize transparency, accountability, and public participation to ensure the integrity and fairness of elections in the country.

F. Prelims Facts

1. Study says solar radiation available for producing power falling in India

Context: A recent study conducted by scientists at the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicates a concerning trend of decreasing solar radiation available for power generation in several locations across India. 

  • Published in the organization’s scientific journal Mausam, the analysis highlights the impact of increased aerosol load and clouding on the efficiency of solar panels, while also suggesting potential solutions to mitigate these effects.

Factors Contributing to Decreasing Solar Radiation

  • Increased Aerosol Load: Fine particles from carbon emissions, fossil fuel burning, and dust absorb sunlight and deflect it away from the ground, reducing the amount of solar radiation available for power generation.
  • Clouding: Aerosols can precipitate the formation of dense clouds, further blocking sunlight and decreasing solar radiation reaching the Earth’s surface.

Study Findings

  • Declining Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) Potential: Analysis of radiation trends at 13 in-house stations revealed a general decline in SPV potential across various locations in India, including major cities like Ahmedabad, Chennai, Mumbai, and New Delhi.
  • Impact on Solar Parks: Regions with large solar parks, particularly in Gujarat and Rajasthan, are also experiencing a decrease in SPV potential, posing challenges to India’s ambitious solar energy targets.
  • Current Solar Capacity: India’s installed solar power capacity stands at approximately 81 GW, constituting around 17% of the total installed electricity. However, the rate of capacity addition has been slower than anticipated, with various factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, affecting the trajectory.

Significance

  • Energy Transition Goals: India aims to source nearly half of its electricity requirement from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030, with a significant portion expected to come from solar power. However, the declining solar radiation poses a challenge to achieving these targets and necessitates urgent action.
  • Environmental Impact: Addressing the factors contributing to decreasing solar radiation is crucial not only for meeting energy demands but also for mitigating environmental pollution and climate change associated with fossil fuel use.

Solutions

  • Investment in Efficient Solar Technology: Installing more efficient solar panels could help counter the effects of decreased solar radiation, enhancing the overall performance and output of solar power systems.
  • Policy Support: Continued government support through policies and incentives is essential to encourage investment in renewable energy infrastructure and promote the adoption of advanced solar technologies.
  • Research and Innovation: Further research into aerosol dynamics and cloud formation can provide insights into mitigating their impact on solar radiation, enabling the development of more effective solutions.

2. IUCN representative to be an observer in Nilgiri Tahr survey

Context: The Tamil Nadu government is embarking on a synchronised survey of the Nilgiri Tahr, the State animal, to remove it from the endangered status. The survey, scheduled for April 29, seeks to estimate the population of this species, which faces threats to its survival due to habitat loss and fragmentation.

Issues

  • Endangered Status: The Nilgiri Tahr is listed as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and is protected under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, highlighting the urgency of conservation efforts.
  • Population Estimation: The survey aims to assess the current population of Nilgiri Tahrs, particularly in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR), to gauge the effectiveness of existing conservation measures and identify areas for intervention.
  • Habitat Fragmentation: Habitat loss and fragmentation pose significant threats to the survival of Nilgiri Tahrs, with human activities encroaching upon their natural habitats and disrupting their ecological balance.

Significance

  • Conservation Prioritization: Removing the Nilgiri Tahr from the endangered status would signify significant conservation success and underscore the importance of sustained efforts to protect endangered species and their habitats.
  • Biodiversity Conservation: Nilgiri Tahrs are a key component of the Western Ghats ecosystem, playing a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance. Their conservation is essential for the overall health of the region’s ecosystem.
  • Collaborative Efforts: Collaboration with organizations like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) India, the Wildlife Institute of India, and the IUCN reflects the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in conservation initiatives, leveraging expertise and resources for effective outcomes.

Solutions

  • Population Monitoring: Regular monitoring of Nilgiri Tahr populations, coupled with habitat restoration and protection measures, can help in maintaining and enhancing their numbers and distribution.
  • Habitat Conservation: Identifying and safeguarding critical habitats and corridors for Nilgiri Tahrs, particularly along the Kerala border, is essential for ensuring their long-term survival and genetic diversity.
  • Community Engagement: Involving local communities in conservation efforts through awareness programs, livelihood support, and sustainable tourism initiatives can foster stewardship and mitigate human-wildlife conflicts.

G. Tidbits

Nothing here for today!!!

H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions

Q1. Consider the following statements: (Level – Difficult) [PYQ 2019]
  1. Under Ramsar Convention, it is mandatory on the part of the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India.
  2. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were framed by the Government of India based on the recommendations of the Ramsar Convention.
  3. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 also encompass the drainage area or catchment regions of the wetlands as determined by the authority.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Answer: c

Explanation:

  • Statement 1 is not correct, According to Ramsar Convention, “each Contracting Party shall promote the conservation of wetlands and waterfowl by establishing nature reserves on wetlands, whether they are included in the List or not, and provide adequately for their wardening”.
    • Thus it is not mandatory for the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India.
  • Statement 2 is not correct, The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 was notified by the Ministry of Environment and Forests to ensure better conservation and management and to prevent the degradation of existing wetlands in India.
    • These rules were not drafted based on the recommendations of the Ramsar Convention.
  • Statement 3 is correct, The term “wetland” according to the Rules, refer to areas such as marsh, fen, peatland, inland waters such as lakes, reservoir, tanks, backwaters, lagoon, creeks, estuaries and also include drainage area or catchment region of the wetlands as determined by the Central Wetlands Regulatory Authority.
Q2. With reference to forced labour (Vishti) in India during the Gupta period, which
 one of the following statements is correct? (Level – Difficult) PYQ 2019
  1. It was considered as a source of income for the state, a sort of tax paid by the people.
  2. It was totally absent in the Madhya Pradesh and Kathiawar region of the Gupta empire.
  3. The forced labourer was entitled to weekly wages.
  4. The eldest son of the labourer was sent as the forced labourer
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: a

Explanation:

  • Vishti was considered as a source of income for the state, a sort of tax by the people. 
  • Junagarh inscription mentions Vishti as one form of tax, which indicates that it was extracted from Gujarat and Malwa region.
  • Anyone could be sent as a labourer for Vishti, not necessarily the eldest son of the labourer. 
  • The forced labourers were not entitled to any weekly wages.
  • Therefore option a is correct.
Q3. What was the purpose of Operation Sukoon launched by the Government of India?
(PYQ-CSE-2007) (Level-Difficult)
  1. Helping Indonesia in its efforts to rehabilitate the victims of earthquake in that country
  2. Evacuating the Indian Nationals from Lebanon during the conflict in the Middle East
  3. Assisting United Nations in its efforts to help the civil war victims in the Darfur region of North Africa
  4. Providing a relief package to farmers after a spate of suicides by other farmers in Andhra Pradesh
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: b

Explanation: Operation Sukoon was an operation launched by the Indian Navy to evacuate Indian, Sri Lankan and Nepalese nationals, as well as Lebanese nationals with Indian spouses, from the conflict zone during the 2006 Lebanon War.

Q4. On which one of the following rivers is the Tehri Hydropower Complex located?
(CSE-PYQ-2008) (Level-Difficult)
  1. Alaknanda
  2. Bhagirathi
  3. Dhauliganga
  4. Mandakini
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: b

Explanation: Tehri Dam is a multi-purpose rock and earth-fill embankment dam on the Bhagirathi River in Uttarakhand.

Q5. Which of the following brings out the Consumer Price Index Number for Industrial
Workers? (Level – Easy) [PYQ - 2015]
  1. The Reserve Bank of India
  2. The Department of Economic Affairs
  3. The Labour Bureau
  4. The Department of Personnel and Training
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: c

Explanation:

  • The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for industrial workers and agricultural labourers are published by the Labour Bureau.
  • The CPI for industrial workers measures the average change in retail prices of a basket of commodities which an industrial worker generally consumes. 
  • The CPI for industrial workers is increasingly being considered the appropriate indicator of general inflation, which shows the most accurate impact of price rise on the cost of living of common people.
  • The items included in CPI for industrial workers are food, pan, supari, tobacco, fuel and lighting, housing, clothing, and miscellaneous expenses with food being accorded the highest weight.

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