20 February 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related POLITY 1. SC flags horse-trading after Chandigarh polls 2. Centre has agreed to discuss Statehood, say Ladakh leaders 3. Centre-Kerala talks fail; SC to hear suit C. GS 3 Related ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY 1. Use dictionary meaning of ‘forest’: SC to Centre D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 1. Israel to fight during Ramzan unless Hamas frees hostages ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY 1. Why are human-wildlife conflicts escalating in Kerala? 2. Elephant tracking in Idukki forests gets easier as new AI camera beams live images on social media F. Prelims Facts 1. EU launches Red Sea mission as U.S. ship is attacked twice 2. Prohibition on the Nilgiris 3. Hundred years ago, Satyendra Nath Bose changed physics forever 4. Saturn’s moon Mimas may have ocean under its crust 5. Breakthrough Prize laureate calls for collecting ‘precious’ protein structures 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. SC flags horse-trading after Chandigarh polls
Syllabus: Indian Constitution – Historical Underpinnings, Evolution, Features, Amendments, Significant Provisions and Basic Structure.
Mains: Election Issues
Introduction:
The Supreme Court of India has raised significant concerns regarding the Chandigarh mayoral elections, citing potential instances of horse-trading and electoral malpractice. The court’s directives and observations shed light on the broader issues surrounding electoral integrity and democratic principles.
Legal Implications and Proposed Solutions:
The legal battle surrounding the Chandigarh mayoral elections raises critical questions about electoral transparency and accountability. While one proposal suggested fresh elections under a new Returning Officer, an alternative solution proposed a recount of the ballots cast. The court’s firm stance reflects its commitment to upholding the sanctity of democratic processes and safeguarding electoral integrity.
Significance of the Supreme Court’s Intervention:
The Supreme Court’s intervention underscores the importance of impartiality and fairness in electoral procedures. By scrutinizing alleged instances of electoral malpractice and addressing concerns of horse-trading, the court reaffirms its role as a guardian of democratic values and principles.
2. Centre has agreed to discuss Statehood, say Ladakh leaders
Syllabus: Government Policies & Interventions, Federalism
Mains: Issue related to Ladakh Statehood
Introduction: Ladakh’s civil society groups have decided to delay an indefinite hunger strike. The decision comes after the central government agreed to address their demands in a scheduled meeting.
Demands for Constitutional Safeguards:
The demands put forth by Ladakh’s civil society encompass various crucial aspects, including the granting of statehood for Ladakh, the inclusion of the region under the tribal status outlined in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, and the establishment of a dedicated Public Service Commission for Ladakh. These demands reflect the community’s aspirations for enhanced representation and governance structures tailored to the unique needs of the region.
Progress and Future Discussions:
The MHA officials did not commit to a detailed discussion on the issue of statehood and constitutional safeguards. Instead, they proposed enhancing the financial powers of the hill councils of Leh and Kargil. However, the civil society groups emphasized the importance of receiving timely assurances regarding the discussion of their demands.
Conclusion:
As Ladakh navigates its path forward, the postponement of the hunger strike underscores the importance of dialogue, cooperation, and advocacy in effecting positive change. The talks have significant promise for addressing Ladakh’s demands and charting a course towards inclusive governance and development in the region.
3. Centre-Kerala talks fail; SC to hear suit
Syllabus: Issues & Challenges Pertaining to the Federal Structure
Mains: Centre-state relations
Introduction: In a significant legal development, the Supreme Court has decided to proceed with the hearing of a lawsuit filed by the State of Kerala against the Central Government. The suit alleges arbitrary interference by the Centre in Kerala’s financial affairs, marking a critical juncture in the ongoing dispute between the two entities.
Failed Negotiations Prompt Legal Action:
Despite attempts at negotiations, talks between Kerala and the Centre failed to reach a resolution, prompting the Supreme Court to intervene in the matter. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing Kerala, informed the bench headed by Justice Surya Kant about the Centre’s proposal to withdraw the suit in exchange for a grant of ₹11,000 crore. However, Kerala argued that it was already entitled to this amount, highlighting the impasse between the parties.
Accusations and Counter Arguments:
The legal battle reflects a broader conflict between Kerala and the Centre regarding fiscal policies and state autonomy. Kerala has accused the Centre of implementing policies aimed at undermining state finances, while the Centre has criticized Kerala’s financial management and labelled the state as financially unhealthy. The dispute underscores the tension between state and central authorities over fiscal jurisdiction and governance.
Implications and Future Proceedings:
The Supreme Court’s decision to proceed with the lawsuit signifies the gravity of the issues at hand and the importance of resolving disputes between states and the Centre through legal means.
As Kerala’s lawsuit against the Centre progresses, it raises fundamental questions about the balance of power between states and the central government. The outcome of the legal proceedings will have far-reaching implications for federal relations and financial autonomy in India, underscoring the significance of judicial intervention in resolving disputes of national importance.
C. GS 3 Related
Category: ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY
1. Use dictionary meaning of ‘forest’: SC to Centre
Syllabus: Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment.
Mains: Definition of forest
Introduction: In a significant judicial pronouncement, the Supreme Court of India has reaffirmed the expansive interpretation of the term ‘forest,’ ensuring the inclusion of 1.97 lakh square km of undeclared forest lands. This landmark decision stems from petitions challenging amendments to the Forest (Conservation) Act of 1980, which sought to narrow the definition of forests.
Court’s Clarification and Directives:
Responding to the petitions, the Supreme Court directed the government to adhere to the dictionary meaning of ‘forest,’ as established in the landmark 1996 T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad case. The court emphasized the need for a broad interpretation of the term, irrespective of the nature, classification, or ownership of forest lands.
Implementation Plan and Timeline:
To ensure effective implementation of its ruling, the Supreme Court outlined a comprehensive plan. It mandated the compilation of a consolidated record of forest lands by all states and union territories, pursuant to Rule 16 of a notification issued by the Environment Ministry. States must submit these records by March 31, 2024, with the Ministry publishing them on its website by April 15, 2024.
Conclusion:
The Supreme Court’s ruling on the definition of forests marks a significant milestone in India’s environmental jurisprudence. By upholding the expansive interpretation of ‘forest,’ the judiciary reaffirms its commitment to environmental protection, ecological sustainability, and the preservation of India’s natural heritage for future generations.
D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. Israel to fight during Ramzan unless Hamas frees hostages
Syllabus: GS-2, Effect of Policies and Politics of Developed and Developing Countries on India’s Interests
Mains: Ongoing Gaza conflict and its impact on India – Israel relations
Context:
- Israel has intensified its offensive in Gaza, issuing a stark warning to Hamas.
- The ultimatum demands the release of all hostages, threatening to continue the assault into Ramzan.
- Focus is particularly on the densely populated Rafah region, located near the Egyptian border.
Dire Conditions for Palestinian Civilians:
- Concerns heighten over the plight of 1.4 million Palestinians in Rafah.
- Civilians endure relentless bombardment and severe food shortages in overcrowded shelters.
- Humanitarian crisis deepens as makeshift tents struggle to accommodate the displaced population.
Escalation in Casualties and Destruction:
- Overnight strikes and battles claim over 100 Palestinian lives, with a significant number being women and children.
- The death toll surpasses 29,000, according to the Health Ministry in Gaza.
- The city of Khan Yunis witnesses intense fighting, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis, especially in proximity to Rafah.
Israel’s Determination and International Reactions:
- Israeli War Cabinet member Benny Gantz emphasizes readiness to escalate the offensive, targeting Rafah if hostages are not released by Ramzan.
- Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva accused Israel of “genocide,” drawing comparisons to Hitler’s atrocities against Jews.
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the remarks as “shameful,” while Foreign Minister Israel Katz threatened to declare Lula da Silva “persona non grata” unless an apology is issued.
Nut Graf: Israel escalates offensive in Gaza, demanding Hamas release hostages or face continued attacks into Ramzan. Dire conditions persist for 1.4 million Palestinians in Rafah. International condemnation grows amid rising casualties and destruction.
Category: ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY
1. Why are human-wildlife conflicts escalating in Kerala?
Syllabus: GS-3, Conservation
Mains: Reason of rising human-animal conflicts and possible solutions
Introduction: Scale of Human-Animal Conflicts in Kerala
- Kerala witnessed human-wildlife conflict across 1,004 areas according to the State Forest Department’s study.
- Over 48,000 incidents of damage to major crops were recorded between 2013-14 and 2018-19.
- Nilambur North, Wayanad South, and Wayanad North forest ranges had the highest numbers of major conflict locations.
- Wild elephants were involved in the highest number of incidents, followed by wild boars, bonnet macaques, and snakes.
- Elephants, bonnet macaques, and wild boars caused the most damage to farmers residing in forest fringe areas.
- Herbivores such as sambar, spotted deer, and gaur also contributed significantly to crop damage.
- 814 livestock animals were reported killed or injured, with tigers preying on 420 of them.
Reasons for the Increase in Human-Wildlife Conflicts:
- Increased area under cultivation around wildlife habitats.
- Changing cropping patterns.
- Significant increase in the population of animals due to conservation efforts.
- Movement of livestock and humans in wildlife habitats during odd hours.
- Habitat depletion and fragmentation caused by human activities.
- Reduction in food and water availability due to invasive alien species.
- Adverse effects of monoculture on plant biodiversity.
Proposed Solutions and Their Effectiveness:
- Elephant-proof trenches and solar power fences are effective if properly maintained.
- Proposed hanging power fences out of reach of elephants.
- Planting suitable indigenous plants in forests to ensure wild animals’ food security and deter them from agricultural lands.
- Creation of early warning systems using drones and watchers to track dangerous animal movements.
Connection to ESZ (Eco-Sensitive Zone) Norm:
- ESZ norm has been suggested by conservationists as a solution to reduce human-wildlife conflicts.
- The legislative assembly passed a resolution urging the Centre to exempt Kerala from ESZ.
- Implementation would be challenging due to Kerala’s dense population, severe land scarcity, and significant human presence near wildlife habitats.
Nut Graf: Human-wildlife conflict in Kerala is escalating, with over 48,000 crop damage incidents recorded. Reasons include habitat changes and population increases. Proposed solutions include improved fencing and early warning systems, but challenges persist, including opposition to ESZ norms.
2. Elephant tracking in Idukki forests gets easier as new AI camera beams live images on social media
Syllabus: GS-3, Conservation
Mains: Use of technology for conservation and promoting ourism
Introduction:
- The Forest department in Idukki has introduced an AI-powered camera system in Anakkulam to monitor wild elephants.
- Live images from the camera will be accessible to tourists via a Telegram channel named ‘Anakkulam Elephant Oru’.
- The initiative is a collaboration between the Mankulam Forest Division and the Government Engineering College, Idukki.
Installation and Functionality:
- The AI camera, installed near the waterhole in Anakkulam, captures live images of wild elephant herds.
- Users can receive these images within 30 seconds to one minute by sending a request on the Telegram channel.
- The project was led by S. Santhosh Kumar, a faculty member at the Government Engineering College.
Improved Tourist Experience:
- The initiative aims to enhance the tourist experience by providing real-time updates on the presence of wild elephants at the waterhole.
- Tourists can now visit Anakkulam confidently, knowing they can observe wild elephants without fear.
Impact on Wildlife Conservation:
- The system facilitates the monitoring of wild elephants’ movements, aiding in their conservation.
- It also helps mitigate human-wildlife conflicts by providing early warnings to forest officials and tourists.
Significance of Anakkulam:
- Anakkulam, located within the Mankulam forest division, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Western Ghats.
- The area has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors interested in observing wildlife, particularly wild elephants.
- The unique water source in Anakkulam, with its distinct salty flavour, attracts wild elephants from neighbouring forests, especially those under the Malayattoor forest division.
Nut Graf: The introduction of an AI-powered camera system at Anakkulam in Idukki enhances tourist experiences by providing real-time imagery of wild elephant herds. This collaborative effort aims to promote wildlife conservation and mitigate human-wildlife conflicts in the region.
F. Prelims Facts
1. EU launches Red Sea mission as U.S. ship is attacked twice
Context: The European Union has initiated a naval mission to safeguard Red Sea shipping from Yemen’s Houthi rebels, following repeated attacks on the U.S.-owned cargo vessel in the region.
Issue:
- The Houthis, supported by Iran, have targeted the vital shipping lane since November ’23, citing solidarity with Palestinians during the Israel-Hamas conflict.
- The EU’s mission, named Aspides (“shield” in Greek), aims to deploy at least four vessels in a few weeks. Concurrently, the U.S. leads its naval coalition in the area.
- Recent attacks include a Greek-flagged cargo ship enduring two missile strikes within hours in the Gulf of Aden.
2. Prohibition on the Nilgiris
Context: In Ootacamund, a significant development unfolded during the liquor taverns auction.
Issue:
- The Sub-Collector, alongside Revenue officials, declared that hill tribes, including the Badagas, Todas, Kotas, Kurumbas, and Irulas, are prohibited from consuming liquor unless medically certified.
- However, this measure faced public disapproval, as it raised concerns about potential smuggling activities. Consequently, a public meeting is slated to voice opposition to the partial prohibition and advocate for complete prohibition instead.
- Despite dissent among the public, certain segments of the affected communities welcomed the prohibition measure, signalling a nuanced response to the policy change.
Significance: The situation highlights the complexities surrounding alcohol regulation and underscores the need for inclusive policy discussions to address societal concerns effectively.
3. Hundred years ago, Satyendra Nath Bose changed physics forever
Context: Satyendra Nath Bose burst onto the physics scene in 1924, amidst a profound upheaval in the field. Physics was undergoing a radical transformation, with established principles giving way to the emerging quantum theory.
Issue:
- As a lecturer at Dhaka University, Bose unveiled groundbreaking equations elucidating the behaviour of photons, a crucial piece in the quantum puzzle.
- Initially met with scepticism, Bose’s work gained recognition after Albert Einstein endorsed it, marking a watershed moment in scientific history. Collaborating with his friend Meghnad Saha, Bose navigated the complexities of teaching and understanding the new physics paradigms.
- His seminal contribution, deriving Planck’s law of black-body radiation, reshaped quantum statistics and laid the groundwork for understanding bosons and fermions.
Significance: Despite a sparse publication record, Bose’s impact reverberates through modern physics, underscoring his status as a luminary of scientific inquiry as we approach the centennial of his discovery.
Read more about Satyendra Nath Bose and his contributions in the linked article.
4. Saturn’s moon Mimas may have ocean under its crust
Context: In a recent study published in the prestigious journal Nature, astronomers have proposed the intriguing possibility of Mimas, one of Saturn’s major moons, harbouring a liquid ocean beneath its cratered surface.
Issue:
- Despite its small size compared to other moons, Mimas has drawn attention due to its unique topography, earning it the nickname “Death Star” for its resemblance to the iconic space station in Star Wars.
- Using data from NASA’s Cassini spacecraft, scientists analyzed Mimas’s orbital behaviour and inferred the potential presence of a subsurface ocean based on its librations and orbital changes.
- The estimated thickness of the ice shell and the heat released from the surface suggest a hydrothermally active core, reminiscent of Saturn’s moon Enceladus.
Significance: These findings shed light on the dynamic geological processes occurring within our solar system’s diverse array of celestial bodies, challenging our understanding of planetary evolution.
5. Breakthrough Prize laureate calls for collecting ‘precious’ protein structures
Context: John Jumper, recipient of the Breakthrough Prize, emphasized the importance of gathering and consolidating protein structures into a central repository.
About:
- The significance of bridging the gap between the rapid advancements in protein sequencing and the slower progress in determining protein structures was highlighted.
- This AI-driven approach not only accelerates the process of structure determination but also highlights the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence in scientific discovery.
- Jumper’s ongoing efforts focus on enhancing the versatility and applicability of AlphaFold to predict structures for a broader range of proteins, thereby contributing to comprehensive databases like the Protein Data Bank (PDB).
Significance: The importance of diverse data in machine learning, stating that broader and more varied datasets facilitate more effective problem-solving in the field of ML.
G. Tidbits
Nothing here for today!!!
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1. Consider the following statements:
- iOncology AI aims to sequence the genomes of 3,000 cancer patients who are currently seeking treatment at AIIMS.
- Through genomic sequencing, they decipher our genetic makeup and spot alterations in our genes.
- Globally, there is an increasing interest in the use of AI for cancer treatment
How many of the following statements is/are correct?
- Any 1
- Any 2
- All 3
- None of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:
The objective of the iOncology AI project is to sequence the genomes of 3,000 cancer patients who are currently seeking treatment at AIIMS. Globally, there is an increasing interest in the use of AI for cancer treatment. There is a growing trend of utilizing artificial intelligence in various aspects of cancer diagnosis, treatment, and research worldwide.
Q2. Which of the following is the largest rubber producing state of India?
- Tripura
- Kerala
- Assam
- Karnataka
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation: Kerala is the top rubber-producing state. Others are Tripura, Karnataka, Assam, etc.
Q3. ‘Odysseus’, recently seen in the news, can be best identified as:
- SpaceX’s moon lander
- NASA’s upcoming mission to Saturn
- SpaceX’s 2nd generation satellite internet mission
- European Space Agency’s upcoming Sun exploration mission
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Explanation: ‘Odysseus’ refers to SpaceX’s moon lander, a significant development in space exploration. This spacecraft holds promise for future lunar missions, marking a notable advancement in SpaceX’s ventures beyond Earth’s orbit.
Q4. Consider the following statements with regards to La-Nina:
- Monsoon rainfall over India is known to be strongly influenced by El Nino, but not by La Nina.
- The western and southern parts of the country have always had relatively lower levels of pollution, because of their proximity to oceans.
- The winter of 2022 showed a significant deviation from this normal. Northern Indian cities, including Delhi, were cleaner than usual, while cities in the west and the south, like Mumbai, Bengaluru and Chennai, experienced worse-than-usual air quality.
How many of these statements is/are correct?
- Any 1
- Any 2
- All 3
- None of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
While El Niño tends to suppress monsoon rainfall, La Niña often enhances it. Therefore, the statement that monsoon rainfall over India is influenced only by El Niño and not by La Niña is incorrect. The other two statements are correct.
Q5. Which of the following are the discretionary powers given to the Governor of a State?
- Sending a report to the President of India for imposing the President’s rule.
- Appointing the Ministers.
- Reserving certain bills passed by the State Legislature for consideration of the President of India.
- Making the rules to conduct the business of the State Government.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- 1 and 2 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 2, 3 and 4 only
- 1, 2, 3 and 4
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
In case of failure of constitutional machinery in the state, the Governor can send a report to the President recommending the imposition of the President’s rule. The Governor can reserve certain bills passed by the State Legislature for the consideration of the President, especially if they pertain to matters outside the purview of the state legislature.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- Why are man-animal conflicts on the rise and what can be done to reduce this? (10 marks, 150 words) [GS-3, Environment and Ecology]
- The demand for the creation of new states is justified or not. Comment. (10 marks, 150 words) [GS-2, Polity]
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