21 Feb 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related SOCIAL ISSUES 1. Rules that edge out women from jobs due to marriage illegal: SC B. GS 2 Related C. GS 3 Related ECONOMY 1. ‘India to seek $26 bn private investment in nuclear power sector’ D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials ENVIRONMENT 1. Calm assessment SOCIAL JUSTICE 1. Keep it wholesome INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 1. U.S. vetoes UN vote on Gaza ceasefire, pushes alternative F. Prelims Facts 1. ONGC to drill more wells in Bombay High Region 2. ‘Cultural protest’ to mark 151 years of Kolkata tram 3. Lady JPs In Bombay 4. Big Shot G. Tidbits H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
Category: SOCIAL ISSUES
1. Rules that edge out women from jobs due to marriage illegal: SC
Syllabus: Role of Women, Mechanisms, Laws, Institutions and Bodies constituted for the Protection and Betterment of these Vulnerable Sections.
Mains: Issues related to women.
Introduction:
In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court of India has denounced regulations that terminate women employees’ jobs upon marriage or on facing domestic issues, labelling them as “coarse gender discrimination” and blatantly unconstitutional.Â
Upholding Gender Equality:Â
- The court’s observations came in response to a case involving a woman permanent commissioned officer in the Military Nursing Service who was discharged for getting married.
- The court emphasized that terminating employment based solely on a woman’s marital status represents a clear case of gender bias and inequality.Â
- Such rules, rooted in patriarchal norms, not only undermine human dignity but also violate fundamental rights to non-discrimination and fair treatment.
- The ruling asserts the unconstitutionality of laws and regulations perpetuating gender-based biases in the workplace.
Arbitrary Regulations Condemned:
- The Supreme Court found the rule against marriage applicable only to women nursing officers to be “ex facie manifestly arbitrary.” It noted the inconsistency of penalizing women employees for marital status or domestic involvement, deeming such regulations unconstitutional and contrary to the principles of equality and justice.
- The court’s ruling also highlighted the withdrawal of an Army instruction related to the terms and conditions of service for permanent commissions in the Military Nursing Service in 1995. This underscores the evolving legal landscape and the imperative to uphold gender equality and non-discrimination in contemporary employment practices.
Nut graf: The Supreme Court’s firm stance against gender discrimination in employment represents a significant victory for gender equality and women’s rights in India. By unequivocally declaring the termination of employment based on marriage or domestic issues as unconstitutional, the court reaffirms its commitment to ensuring fair treatment and equal opportunities for all individuals in the workforce.
B. GS 2 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
C. GS 3 Related
Category: ECONOMY
1. ‘India to seek $26 bn private investment in nuclear power sector’
Syllabus: GS-3, Infrastructure – Energy
Mains: Nuclear power sector
Introduction:
India, a country striving to diversify its energy mix and reduce carbon emissions, is gearing up to welcome private investment in its nuclear energy sector. This move signals a significant departure from the traditional state-led approach and marks a milestone in India’s energy transition journey.
Opening the Gates to Private Investment:
For the first time, India is actively seeking private investors to inject approximately $26 billion into its nuclear energy sector. This initiative aims to bolster the share of non-carbon-emitting energy sources in India’s electricity generation portfolio, aligning with ambitious targets set to combat climate change.
Ambitious Targets and Investment Goals:
India’s objective:
By 2030, the nation aims to derive 50% of its installed electric generation capacity from non-fossil fuel sources, a considerable leap from the current 42%. To achieve this goal, the government is in talks with prominent private entities, including Reliance Industries, Tata Power, Adani Power, and Vedanta Ltd., each expected to invest around ₹440 billion ($5.3 billion) in the nuclear energy sector.
Expanding Nuclear Power Capacity:
- The envisioned investment is set to add 11,000 megawatts (MW) of new nuclear power generation capacity by 2040.Â
- The Department of Atomic Energy and NPCIL have been engaging in extensive discussions with private firms over the past year to finalize the investment plan. Under the proposed framework, private companies will make substantial investments in nuclear plants, including land acquisition and construction. However, NPCIL will retain operational control over the stations, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and safety standards.
- Private investors stand to benefit from revenue generated through electricity sales, while NPCIL will oversee the operation of the projects for a fee. Despite queries, concerned entities have not yet responded to requests for comments on the matter, indicating that discussions are ongoing and details are being ironed out.
Conclusion: As discussions progress and investment plans materialize, India is poised to take a significant leap forward in its quest for clean, reliable, and affordable energy sources.
Nut Graf:Â India’s decision to open its nuclear energy sector to private investment underscores the nation’s commitment to sustainable development and energy security. By leveraging private capital and expertise, India aims to unlock the full potential of its nuclear energy capabilities, paving the way for a greener and more resilient energy future.
D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
Category: ENVIRONMENT
Syllabus: GS-3, Conservation
Mains: Amendment of Forest Conservation Act and concerns associated with it
Introduction: Background of Forest Conservation Act and its Success
- The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, aimed to curb rampant deforestation for non-forestry purposes.
- Approximately four million hectares of forest land were diverted from 1951-75 before the Act was enacted.
- The Act mandated a regulatory mechanism by the Centre for forest diversion, resulting in a significant reduction in annual forest diversion post-1981.
Expansion of Protection: T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad Judgment
- The T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad judgment broadened the definition of forest tracts worthy of protection.
- It introduced the concept of ‘deemed forests,’ which encompassed areas not officially classified as forests in government records.
- States were directed to form expert committees to identify and delineate such ‘deemed forests.’
Centre’s Attempt to Amend the Act and Concerns:
- The Centre proposed amendments to the Forest (Conservation) Act to provide clarity, especially regarding large tracts of recorded forest land already used for non-forestry purposes with state permissions.
- Private citizens expressed reluctance to engage in activities like cultivating private plantations due to fears of their land being classified as forests, potentially jeopardizing ownership rights.
- The amendments aimed to exclude ‘deemed forests,’ not officially recognized as such, from protection to facilitate private initiatives for afforestation and carbon sink creation.
Public Concerns and Pending Judgment:
- Public interest petitions were filed against the proposed amendments, viewing them as undermining the Act’s goal of forest protection.
- The Supreme Court directed the Centre to compile and disclose States’ efforts in identifying deemed forests by April ’24.
- The debate surrounding the amendments requires a dispassionate assessment of ground realities to determine their impact on India’s carbon sink creation and overall environmental goals.
Nut Graf: The Supreme Court’s pause on amending the Forest (Conservation) Act prompts a closer look at ‘deemed forests.’ The debate revolves around clarifying definitions to balance conservation goals with private initiatives for afforestation and carbon sink creation.
Category: SOCIAL JUSTICE
Syllabus: GS-2, Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
Mains: Cervical cancer and vaccinationÂ
Context:
- Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s announcement regarding vaccination against cervical cancer for girls aged nine to 14 is a positive step.
- Recognizing the multi-dimensional nature of health, government policies must integrate various aspects for effective outcomes.
Understanding Cervical Cancer:
- Cervical cancer, predominantly caused by HPV infection, is a significant health concern for women.
- It ranks as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Indian women, with over 77,000 deaths annually.
- Early detection is crucial, as outcomes depend on the stage of detection.
Accessible Screening Methods:
- VIA (Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid) and VILI (Visual Inspection with Lugol’s Iodine) tests are simple and cost-effective screening methods.
- These tests can identify precancerous lesions and cancer at early stages, enabling timely intervention.
- Cryotherapy, a minimally invasive procedure, can be performed to treat abnormal growths.
Call for Comprehensive National Program:
- While vaccination is a positive step, it alone may not have a significant short-term impact.
- A comprehensive national cervical cancer control program should integrate vaccination with accessible screening and treatment services.
- Screening and treatment should be available at primary health centres, ensuring accessibility for all women regardless of age, education, or socio-economic status.
Conclusion:
- To effectively combat cervical cancer and prevent unnecessary deaths, a holistic approach is essential.
- Government initiatives must focus on integrating vaccination, screening, and treatment services into a comprehensive national program accessible to all women.
Nut Graf: Cervical cancer, a significant health concern for Indian women, demands a comprehensive approach. While vaccination is a positive step, accessible screening and treatment services are essential for effective prevention and management.
Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. U.S. vetoes UN vote on Gaza ceasefire, pushes alternative
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:
- The United States blocked a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
- The resolution, put forth by Algeria over three weeks, aimed at securing a humanitarian ceasefire respected by all parties.
U.S. Concerns and Alternative Proposal:
- Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield cited jeopardizing sensitive negotiations as the reason for the U.S. veto.
- Washington proposed an alternate resolution, expressing concerns about the original text’s impact on ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Pressure on Israel and U.S. Influence:
- Mounting pressure urged Israel, including from its close ally, the United States, to reconsider its military actions.
- The draft resolution opposed the forced displacement of Palestinian civilians and demanded the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Casualties and Conflict Dynamics:
- The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with thousands dead in Gaza, mostly civilians, and hundreds in Israel, predominantly civilians.
- Israel’s offensive aims to dismantle Hamas, while international efforts focus on achieving a ceasefire and addressing humanitarian concerns.
U.S. Prioritization of Negotiations and Altering Resolution Language:
- The U.S. prioritizes delicate diplomatic negotiations, citing potential implications for the release of hostages from Gaza.
- While the alternate U.S. draft includes the term “ceasefire,” it does not require an immediate cessation of hostilities, unlike previous versions.
Nut Graf: The United States vetoed a UN Gaza ceasefire resolution, citing jeopardised negotiations. Pressure mounts on Israel amid casualties. The U.S. proposes an alternate resolution, prioritising diplomatic efforts over an immediate ceasefire.
F. Prelims Facts
1. ONGC to drill more wells in Bombay High Region
Context: Â The Oil and Natural Gas Commission (ONGC) anticipates expanding drilling operations at Bombay High following a promising oil strike in the initial well, located 160 km off Bombay’s coast.Â
Issue:Â
- Despite oil flowing at 962 meters, the “Sagar Samrat” drill ship will continue operations until it reaches the projected 2,000-meter depth before relocating to another site 40 km away.Â
- Experts laud the discovery’s high-quality oil with an API gravity of 43.6, indicating potentially low sulfur content and facilitating extraction processes.
- Significance:
- Due to the site’s distance from the coast, steel pipelines must be laid under the seabed to connect the oil wells, signalling potential growth in India’s oil exploration and production sector.
2. ‘Cultural protest’ to mark 151 years of Kolkata tram
Context:Â
Tram aficionados in Kolkata are gearing up to commemorate the 151st anniversary of the city’s beloved tram system, signalling both celebration and concern.
About:Â Â
- Organized by the Calcutta Tram Users’ Association (CTUA), the event aims to honour the tram’s legacy while advocating against its decline.Â
- With only three operational routes remaining, enthusiasts express dismay over the neglect and call for governmental intervention.Â
- A protest slated for March 15 at Esplanade underscores the urgency of preserving this iconic mode of transportation.Â
Significance: As Kolkata’s tram system, dating back to 1873, faces challenges, the anniversary events serve as poignant reminders of its enduring cultural and historical value.
- 100 years ago on February 21, 1924, in Bombay, four women were appointed as justices of peace for the first time that year.Â
- Among them are Lady Jagmohandas Varjivandas, Dilshad Begum, Mrs Harry Hodgkinson, and Lady Cowasji Jehangir.
4. Big Shot
Context: Skywalker hoolock gibbon
About:Â
- The Skywalker gibbon, a species of arboreal primate first identified in China in 2017, has now been confirmed in Myanmar.Â
- With a population size previously less than 200 individuals, new research, including acoustic monitoring and DNA sampling techniques, has revealed the presence of 44 new groups in Myanmar’s forested areas.
G. Tidbits
Nothing here for today!!!
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1) Consider the following statements regarding Reserve Forests in India:
- Reserve Forests are declared under the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
- The primary objective of a Reserve Forest is the conservation of biodiversity and the protection of the ecosystem, including flora and fauna.
- Local communities are not allowed any rights or privileges in Reserve Forests, ensuring strict conservation.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- All of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation: Statements 1 and 3 are incorrect. Reserve Forests are declared under the provisions of the Indian Forest Act. Local communities are given certain rights in the reserve forest areas.
Q2) Consider the following statements regarding the El Niño and La Niña phenomena:
- El Niño is characterized by unusually warm ocean temperatures in the Equatorial Pacific, whereas La Niña is characterized by unusually cold ocean temperatures in the same region.
- El Niño events lead to increased rainfall in the Indian subcontinent, while La Niña events are associated with drought conditions in the same region.
- Both El Niño and La Niña significantly impact global weather patterns, affecting monsoons, hurricanes, and droughts across different parts of the world.
- El Niño events occur more frequently than La Niña events.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Only 3
- All of the above
Q3) Which of the following statements about the relics of Buddha is/are correct?
- After the Buddha’s cremation, his ashes were divided and distributed among eight royal families and his disciples.
- The relics of Buddha were enshrined in stupas, which are sacred mounds often visited for pilgrimage.
- The distribution of Buddha’s relics significantly led to the spread of Buddhism outside India.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2, and 3
Q4) Consider the following statements about coal gasification:
- Coal gasification is a process that converts coal from a solid to a gaseous state.
- The main product of coal gasification is syngas, which is primarily composed of hydrogen and ammonia.
- Coal gasification can significantly reduce the environmental impact of coal utilization.
- It is a technology that supports the clean coal technology initiative.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Only 3
- All of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation: The second statement is incorrect. The main product of coal gasification is syngas, but it is primarily composed of carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen (H2), not ammonia.
Q5) Consider the following freedom fighters:
- Barindra Kumar Ghosh
- Jogesh Chandra Chatterjee
- Rash Behari Bose
Who of the above was/were actively associated with the Ghadar Party?
- 1 and 2
- 2 only
- 1 and 3
- 3 only
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation: Rash Behari Bose was actively associated with the Ghadar Party, a revolutionary organization aimed at overthrowing British rule in India.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- Rigged elections are the biggest blot to democracy. Comment. (15 marks, 250 words) [GS-2, Polity]
- What are the main factors responsible for gender inequality in India? (10 marks, 150 words) [GS-1, Social Issues]
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