03 Jan 2024: UPSC Exam Comprehensive News Analysis

03 Jan 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

A. GS 1 Related
SOCIAL ISSUES
1. Transforming narratives: unravelling India’s transition in slum definitions
B. GS 2 Related
C. GS 3 Related
D. GS 4 Related
E. Editorials
GOVERNANCE
1. Faulty compulsion
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. The global nuclear order is under strain
F. Prelims Facts
1. MHA seeks to pacify truckers protesting new hit-and-run law
2. The Free Movement Regime at the Myanmar border is to end soon, 
entry into India will need a visa
3. Women staff can now nominate children over spouses for pension
4. Monster quake in Japan leaves 48 dead; rescuers scramble in search of survivors
G. Tidbits
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
FIP Magazine

E. Editorials


Category: GOVERNANCE

1. Faulty compulsion

Syllabus: GS-2, Government policies and interventions for the development of various sectors

Mains: Issues with making Aadhaar compulsory

Context: The government’s decision to make Aadhaar details compulsory for Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) workers, with a deadline of December 31, 2023, has raised concerns. The mandatory implementation of the Aadhaar-based payment system (ABPS) is causing issues for beneficiaries, affecting a significant percentage of job card holders and active workers.

Issues with Aadhaar-seeding for MGNREGS

  1. Deadline Pressure
    • Government’s refusal to extend the Aadhaar-seeding deadline adds pressure.
    • Nearly 35% of job card holders and 12.7% of active workers may face challenges in meeting the deadline.
  2. Technical Glitches
    • Over-reliance on technical tools, leading to problematic implementation.
    • Beneficiaries lack proper recourse for corrections in the system.
    • Data analysis indicates deletion of names of 7.6 crore workers due to discrepancies in Aadhaar and job card information.
  3. Payment Failures
    • Errors in the Aadhaar-based payment process result in payment failures.
    • Spelling discrepancies between Aadhaar and job cards create issues.
    • Mapping Aadhaar to the wrong bank account leads to payment diversion without consent.
  4. Wage Delay Concerns
    • Government claims of reduced delays in wage payments through Aadhaar have not been substantiated.
    • Wage delays primarily attributed to insufficient funds, not Aadhaar-related issues.

Significance of the Issue

  • MGNREGS is a demand-driven welfare scheme crucial for rural poverty alleviation.
  • Faulty Aadhaar-seeding and ABPS implementation jeopardize the effectiveness of the scheme.
  • Social and economic implications for the rural poor who heavily rely on MGNREGS for livelihood.

Way forward:

  1. Revisiting the Decision
    • Union government should reconsider the mandatory implementation of ABPS.
    • Address the faulty seeding and mapping problems before making ABPS compulsory.
  2. Social Audits
    • Ministry of Rural Development should conduct social audits to assess the extent of the Aadhaar-seeding issues.
    • Consider exemptions from ABPS on a case-to-case basis for gram panchayats facing technical challenges.
  3. Corrective Measures
    • Implement corrective measures for discrepancies between Aadhaar and job card information.
    • Streamline the process of mapping Aadhaar to bank accounts to prevent payment failures.

Nut Graf: The Union government must prioritize the smooth functioning of MGNREGS by addressing the issues arising from faulty Aadhaar seeding and ABPS implementation. A balanced approach, considering social audits and corrective measures, is essential to ensure the effectiveness of this vital welfare scheme for the rural poor. 


Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

1. The global nuclear order is under strain

Syllabus: GS-2, Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests.

Mains: Issues in global nuclear order 

Context:​ The global nuclear order (GNO), established in the aftermath of the Cold War, is facing unprecedented challenges. The GNO, crucial for preventing nuclear conflict and proliferation, is currently under strain.

Lessons of the Cold War

  • The GNO originated during the Cold War, with the U.S. and U.S.S.R. recognizing the need for bilateral mechanisms to prevent nuclear escalation. 
  • The Cuban Missile Crisis underscored the dangers of nuclear weapons, leading to the creation of the GNO. 
  • The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the Nuclear Suppliers Group were integral elements, in addressing proliferation concerns.

Significance of the GNO

  • Taboo against Nuclear Weapons
    • The taboo against nuclear weapons has held since 1945.
    • Arms control processes and the NPT contributed to preserving this taboo.
  • Success in Non-Proliferation
    • Despite predictions, only four countries (India, Israel, North Korea, and Pakistan) have developed nuclear weapons since the Cold War.
    • Successful denuclearization efforts, particularly in Belarus, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan.
  • Mixed Record in Arms Control
    • Arms control did not end the U.S.-U.S.S.R. nuclear race.
    • Reduction in arsenals since the late 1980s due to the end of the Cold War rivalry.

Changing Geopolitics

  1. Shift from Bipolar to Multipolar World
    • Rise of China as a global power challenging the U.S.
    • Economic and technological rivalry between the U.S. and China.
  2. Strain on U.S.-Russia Treaties
    • Withdrawal from the ABM and INF Treaties.
    • New START agreement lapsing in 2026, strategic stability talks collapsing.
  3. Emergence of Nuclear Peer Rivals
    • U.S. faces nuclear peer rivals in China and Russia.
    • Exploration of new roles for more usable weapons, raising concerns.
  4. Evolution of U.S. Policy
    • Pragmatic U.S. policy regarding nuclear proliferation.
    • Concerns raised by the AUKUS deal with Australia.

The GNO’s Increasing Shaky Ground

  1. Changing Nuclear Dynamics
    • Shift in attitudes towards nuclear weapons in South Korea and Japan.
    • Questions about U.S. ‘extended deterrence’ guarantees.
  2. Uncertain Future
    • Domestic compulsions leading the U.S. to turn inward.
    • Allies considering independent nuclear deterrent capabilities.

Nut Graf: The GNO, rooted in Cold War dynamics, is facing unprecedented challenges in the current geopolitical landscape. Shifting power dynamics, changing attitudes towards nuclear weapons, and the emergence of nuclear peer rivals are straining the foundations of the GNO.

F. Prelims Facts

1. MHA seeks to pacify truckers protesting new hit-and-run law

Context: The nationwide transportation strike has been initiated by truck, bus, and tanker drivers to protest against the stringent jail and fine regulations introduced under the newly implemented Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) for hit-and-run cases. The drivers are expressing their opposition to these regulations, which have caused disruptions in fuel supply and resulted in long queues at petrol pumps across the country.

What is the new regulation?

  • Under the newly implemented Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code, drivers involved in a serious road accident due to negligent driving and fleeing without informing the authorities may face up to 10 years in prison or a fine of Rs 7 lakh. The law specifies that causing death through rash or negligent acts, not amounting to culpable homicide, can result in imprisonment for up to seven years and a fine.
  • According to Section 106(1) of the BNS provides for a punishment of “05 years”, while Section 106(2) provides for a punishment of “0-10 years” in “hit and run” cases. If a person immediately reports to a police officer or magistrate about the accident caused by reckless driving, the individual will not be charged under subsection 106(2).

How did the Supreme Court address this issue?

  • The Supreme Court has stated in multiple cases that strict action should be taken against those drivers who recklessly drive vehicles, cause accidents resulting in someone’s death, and then flee the scene.

What is the Central Government’s argument?

  • The Central Government’s stance is that if a driver accidentally hits someone and promptly informs the police, they would receive a reduced punishment of five years. The extension of sentences to 10 years in such cases was influenced by the Supreme Court’s observations.

Issues:

  • The All India Motor & Goods Transport Association is insisting that decisions by the government should involve consultations with stakeholders. The absence of dialogue or inquiry on this matter is a concern, emphasizing the need for prior meetings and consultations.
  • Private transport operators argue that the law acts as a deterrent for drivers and could result in unjust penalties. They express concern that drivers may face the risk of mob violence while attempting to transport the injured to hospitals. As a result, they are advocating for the repeal of the law.

What is The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS)?

  • The BNS is a new penal code that was introduced in India in 2023 and designed to be more clear and more concise than the IPC. It replaces the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC) incorporating 358 sections (511 in IPC). The BNS incorporates some changes from the IPC, including New offences, Changes to existing offences and Improved clarity.
  • Read more on the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita in CNA dated Sep 13, 2023.

Way Forward

To address the issues raised by stakeholders, the government must engage in consultations with all parties involved in the transportation sector. A balanced approach that considers the concerns of drivers, transport operators, and the legal framework is essential. This could involve revisiting specific aspects of the BNS and ensuring that penalties are proportionate and just. Open dialogue and collaboration between the government, stakeholders, and the judiciary will be key in finding a solution that ensures road safety without unduly burdening drivers or hindering the transportation industry.

2. The Free Movement Regime at the Myanmar border is to end soon, entry into India will need a visa

Context: Central Government is preparing to do away with the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the Myanmar border. 

India – Myanmar Border: The Myanmar border is peaceful and friendly yet it is very sensitive. India shares a 1643 km border with Myanmar, touching four states Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram and is unique in many ways. There are over 240 villages with over 2.5 Lakh people within 10 Km of the Indo-Myanmar border.

What is the Free Movement Regime (FMR)?

  • The Free Movement Regime (FMR) is a unique agreement which was initiatied in the 1970s allowing visa-free movement for individuals belonging to hill tribes, who are citizens of either India or Myanmar and reside within a 16 km radius on either side of the border. They can stay up to 72 hours with effective and valid permits issued by the designated authorities on either side. They can cross the border on the production of a border pass, usually valid for a year, and can stay for up to two weeks per visit.
  • The FMR helped the tribes maintain their age-old ties and has been in place keeping in view the traditional social relations among the border people. It helps genuine people living in the proximity of the border.

Revised Implementation of Free Movement Regime (FMR):

  • In response to the Naga, Mizo, and Meitei insurgencies in August 1968, amidst the turbulent conditions, the Indian Government revisited the provisions of the FMR. Consequently, permits for travelling across the Myanmar border were introduced, a regulation that persisted for the next four decades.
  • However, during the 1990s and early 2000s, the surge in drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and increased insurgent movement along the India-Myanmar border prompted the Indian government to reevaluate the FMR. 
  • In 2004, adjustments were made, restricting the FMR limits to 16 km and allowing tribal people to cross the international border exclusively through three officially designated points.
  • The FMR was implemented in 2018 under the Central Government’s Act East policy during a period of improving diplomatic relations between India and Myanmar. The Free Movement Regime (FMR) was initially scheduled for implementation in 2017 but was postponed due to the Rohingya refugee crisis.
  • The Manipur government has suspended the FMR since 2020, following the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Issues with FMR:

  • Over the years, the Free Movement Regime (FMR) has played a vital role in facilitating trade, fostering cultural exchanges, and promoting people-to-people interactions. Regrettably, its provisions have been exploited by Indian insurgent groups, allowing them to cross into Myanmar, undergo arms training, establish safe havens, and re-enter India to carry out subversive attacks.
  • The FMR has been misused by militants and criminals involved in smuggling weapons, narcotics, contraband goods, and Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN). Taking advantage of the free-movement regime, they occasionally enter India, commit crimes, and then escape to their relatively safer hideouts.
  • Following the military coup in Myanmar in February 2021, over 40,000 refugees sought refuge in Mizoram, and around 4,000 refugees reportedly entered Manipur. This influx poses risks to internal security and strains available resources in the affected regions.

Central Government’s Stand:

  • Introduction of Smart Fencing: The government plans to implement an advanced smart fencing system for the entire India-Myanmar border. This initiative aims to enhance border security and regulate movement.
  • End of Free Movement Regime (FMR): The Centre intends to conclude the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the Indo-Myanmar border. The decision aligns with efforts to prevent misuse by insurgent groups conducting attacks in India and escaping to Myanmar.
  • Fencing Timeline: The entire border is slated to be fenced within the next four and a half years. Once completed, individuals entering through the border will be required to obtain a visa.

Reasons for Change: The shift is driven by the need to curb illegal activities, including insurgent attacks, illegal immigration, and smuggling of drugs and gold, which are facilitated through the existing FMR.

3. Women staff can now nominate children over spouses for pension

Context: The Centre has amended the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules of 2021, granting women government employees and pensioners the authority to nominate their children for family pension over their spouses in specific circumstances. 

What is the amendment to the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules of 2021?

  • Women government employees and pensioners can now nominate their children for a family pension over their spouses.
  • Nomination is allowed if divorce proceedings, domestic violence cases, or dowry demands are pending against the spouse at the time of the individual’s death.
  • Previously, family pension went to the surviving spouse first, with children becoming eligible only after the spouse’s demise.
  • The amendment addresses concerns raised by women officials and pensioners regarding the sequence of family pension distribution.

Significance of the amendment

  • It grants greater empowerment to women government employees and pensioners by offering them increased autonomy in determining the allocation of family pensions.
  • Seen as a progressive initiative that significantly empowers women employees and pensioners, granting them increased authority in financial matters related to pension distribution.
  • Ensuring a balanced and inclusive strategy that aligns with the broader objective of promoting gender equality.
  • Introduces flexibility into the pension distribution system, allowing women to make choices tailored to their specific circumstances, particularly in situations involving legal or personal challenges.

H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions

Q1. Consider the following statements:
  1. India and Myanmar share an unfenced border, and people living in these areas can cross the border without a visa.
  2. The Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the Myanmar border was introduced in 2015 as a sign of friendship between the two countries.

Which of the statement(s) is/are correct?

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 only
  3. Both 1 and 2
  4. Neither 1 nor 2
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: a

Explanation: 

  • The Free Movement Regime (FMR) is a unique agreement which allows visa-free movement for individuals belonging to hill tribes, who are citizens of either India or Myanmar and reside within a 16 km radius on either side of the border. 
  • They can stay up to 72 hours with effective and valid permits issued by the designated authorities on either side. They can cross the border on the production of a border pass, usually valid for a year, and can stay for up to two weeks per visit. 
  • The Free Movement Regime (FMR) was initially introduced in the 1970s and underwent multiple revisions. However, in 2018, it was reinstated under the Central Government’s Act East policy amid improving diplomatic relations between India and Myanmar. Originally planned for implementation in 2017, it was postponed due to the Rohingya refugee crisis.
Q2. The military exercise “Desert Cyclone” is held between which of the following countries?
  1. India and Saudi Arabia 
  2. India and UAE
  3. India and Qatar
  4. India and Iran
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: b

Explanation: 

  • The inaugural edition of the “Desert Cyclone” joint military exercise between India and the UAE commenced on January 2nd and will continue until January 15th, 2024, in the Mahajan ranges of Rajasthan, India.
  • The “Desert Cyclone” exercise marks a deepening of friendship and trust between India and the UAE. 
  • The goal of the exercise is to accomplish mutual security objectives, strengthen bilateral relations between the two nations, and boost cooperation and interoperability for Peace Keeping Operations.
Q3. Consider the following:
  1. Square Kilometer Array Observatory (SKAO) is the world’s largest radio telescope project.
  2. India has recently become a part of this project via the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics.

Which of the statement(s) is/are correct?

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 only
  3. Both 1 and 2
  4. Neither 1 nor 2
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: c

Explanation: 

  • The Square Kilometer Array Observatory (SKAO) is the world’s largest radio telescope project. Its construction is underway in Australia and South Africa, aiming to unlock the secrets of the Universe through its unprecedented sensitivity and resolution.
  • India joined SKAO recently through the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA). This marked a significant development in Indian astronomy, granting access to this cutting-edge facility and allowing Indian scientists to contribute to groundbreaking research.
Q4. Consider the following:
  1. Domestic Air passenger traffic has still not recovered from the pandemic and remains under the pre-pandemic high.
  2. India is the largest aviation market in the world.

Which of the statement(s) is/are correct?

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 only
  3. Both 1 and 2
  4. Neither 1 nor 2
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: d

Explanation: 

  • According to a recent study by the analytics firm Network Thoughts, India achieved a record domestic air passenger traffic of 152 million in 2023, exceeding pre-pandemic levels and marking a full recovery from COVID-19, one year earlier than the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) initial 2024 estimate.
  • India, ranked third globally, is the fastest-growing aviation market, following China and the USA. The study also says that with substantial untapped potential due to the large population, India has immense prospects for growth.
Q5. By which one of the following Acts was the Governor General of Bengal designated as the Governor General of India?
  1. The Regulating Act of 1783
  2. The Pitt’s India Act of 1784
  3. The Charter Act of 1793
  4. The Charter Act of 1833
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: d

Explanation: 

  • It was the Charter Act of 1833 that officially designated the Governor General of Bengal as the Governor General of India. 
  • This act aimed at centralizing and consolidating British rule in India, leading to the establishment of a single authority for the entire British Indian territories. 
  • Lord William Bentinck, who was the Governor General of Bengal, became the first Governor General of India under this act.

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