14 Jan 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 1. Why has South Africa dragged Israel to the ICJ? 2. Justice without power C. GS 3 Related ECONOMY 1. Why is aviation safety under scrutiny D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials F. Prelims Facts 1. Army adopts Topa Pir as model village after civilian deaths 2. India’s oldest living city found in Vadnagar: multi-institution study 3. Luxembourg overtakes Mauritius as India’s third-largest FPI region; France enters the top 10 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: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. Why has South Africa dragged Israel to the ICJ?
Syllabus: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- Structure and Mandate
Prelims: ICJ
Mains: Why has South Africa dragged Israel to the ICJ?
Context: The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has been a focal point of global attention as South Africa accuses Israel of committing genocide during its ongoing military campaign in Gaza. The proceedings invoke the Genocide Convention of 1948, raising questions about the jurisdiction of the ICJ, the nature of the allegations, and the significance of the Genocide Convention in this context.
Issues
- ICJ Jurisdiction:
- The ICJ, as the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, only allows states as parties in cases before the Court.
- Both South Africa and Israel, signatories to the Genocide Convention, are involved in the proceedings.
- Allegations Against Israel:
- South Africa accuses Israel of genocide during its military campaign in Gaza, invoking the Genocide Convention of 1948.
- The allegations include intentional killing, causing bodily and mental harm, and deliberately inflicting conditions leading to physical destruction of the Palestinian people.
- Genocide Convention:
- Adopted in 1948, the Genocide Convention aims to prevent and punish acts of genocide.
- South Africa’s case relies on Article II, defining genocide as acts causing harm or destruction to specific national, racial, ethnic, or religious groups.
Significance
- ICJ’s Role:
- The ICJ is the principal judicial organ of the UN, and its jurisdiction is invoked to address alleged violations of the Genocide Convention.
- Provisional measures sought by South Africa aim to prevent irreparable harm while the main case is under consideration.
- Genocide Convention’s Commitment:
- The Genocide Convention, the first UN human rights treaty, emerged from the commitment to prevent mass killings like the Holocaust.
- South Africa’s case underscores the Convention’s role in holding states accountable for genocidal acts.
- Allegations and Impact:
- South Africa accuses Israel of causing hunger, dehydration, and starvation in Gaza, impeding humanitarian assistance, and endangering civilians.
- The death toll, as claimed by South Africa, and the focus on intent to commit genocide heighten the severity of the allegations.
Why has South Africa taken this route?
- South African sympathy for the Palestinian fight for an independent state goes back to the days of late anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela.
- He famously said in 1997, three years after he became the country’s first democratically elected president after decades of struggle against white-minority rule: “We know too well that our freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinians.“
- Notably, two South African nationals were among the dead in Hamas’ attack and another is among the more than 230 people taken hostage. President Ramaphosa has pledged the ANC’s solidarity with the Palestinians, saying their history had echoes of apartheid – and South Africa’s struggle against white-minority rule.
- Famous Palestinian leader Yasir Arafat was one of the first leaders Mandela met after being released from prison on 11 February 1990. The late PLO leader was among a group of leaders from South Africa’s neighbours who had helped in the fight against apartheid who met Mandela in Zambia just two weeks after his release from 27 years in prison.
- The ICJ referral is not the first step South Africa has taken to hold Israel to account for its attacks on Gaza; the country has repeatedly condemned Israel’s actions against Palestinians. The parliament also voted to close the Israeli embassy and withdrew its diplomatic staff from Israel, while the foreign ministry delivered a referral to the International Criminal Court to investigate alleged crimes, including the crime of genocide, in the Palestinian territories in November.
Wayforward
- Provisional Measures:
- South Africa seeks immediate suspension of Israel’s military operations in Gaza and cessation of acts within the scope of the Genocide Convention.
- Provisional measures, if granted, prevent irreparable harm pending the resolution of the main case.
- International Response:
- The international community plays a crucial role in responding to ICJ rulings, especially if provisional measures are issued.
- The UN Security Council has the authority to take measures, but enforcement depends on member states, subject to potential vetoes.
Nut Graf: The ICJ proceedings between South Africa and Israel highlight the gravity of allegations, with potential implications for international law and accountability. As the ICJ considers provisional measures, the case underscores the Genocide Convention’s significance in addressing alleged genocidal acts and the role of international institutions in promoting justice and preventing atrocities.
Syllabus: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- Structure and Mandate
Prelims: International Court of Justice (ICJ)
Mains: International Court of Justice (ICJ) mandate and structure
Context: The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is in the spotlight due to hearings on a case filed by South Africa, accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. The conflict, triggered by an October 7 Hamas attack, has resulted in significant casualties and displacements.
ICJ Establishment and Powers:
- Founded in June 1945 by the UN Charter, the ICJ operates with advisory and contentious jurisdiction. It replaced the Permanent Court of International Justice, focusing on settling disputes and determining state responsibility for crimes against international law.
Judicial Structure:
- Comprising 15 judges with nine-year terms, appointed through UN General Assembly and Security Council elections, the ICJ emphasizes impartiality. However, past instances reveal voting aligned with national politics.
Enforcement Challenges:
- While ICJ decisions are binding, enforcement relies on the UN Security Council (UNSC). Veto powers of permanent members, like the U.S. in the case against Israel, hinder enforcement. Non-participation of powerful states further complicates efficacy.
Procedural Criticisms:
- The ICJ’s slow, bureaucratic procedures draw criticism, with rulings taking years. The delay raises concerns about the practical redressal of injustice, as seen in the Gambia vs. Myanmar case.
Relevance and Achievements:
- Over the years, states have approached the ICJ for diverse international law matters. It has played a significant role in human rights, environmental issues, and dispute settlement. Major rulings, like the DRC vs. Uganda, demonstrated compliance.
Advisory Role and Ongoing Cases:
- The ICJ’s advisory role has contributed to peaceful conflict resolutions. Current proceedings on Israel-Palestine, initiated by South Africa, align with the UN General Assembly’s call for an advisory opinion on Israel’s illegal occupation.
Niche Position Amid Challenges:
- Despite the emergence of new tribunals, the ICJ maintains a niche in international judicial adjudication. However, concerns exist about potential contradictions in rulings among various judicial bodies.
Nut Graf: The ICJ, though impactful, faces challenges related to enforcement, procedural delays, and political biases. Its role as a last resort for justice underscores the importance of international law in safeguarding global interests.
C. GS 3 Related
1. Why is aviation safety under scrutiny
GS- ;Categories: GS-III, Economy
Syllabus: Infrastructure- Airports
Mains: Issues in aviation safety
Context: Recent aviation incidents, particularly involving a Japan Airlines Airbus A350-900 and an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 9, have brought the issue of aviation safety under intense media scrutiny. These incidents have triggered a renewed focus on safety measures, advances in aircraft manufacturing technology, crew responses, and a specific examination of the Boeing 737 MAX 9.
Issues
- Japan Airlines Airbus A350-900 Incident:
- Date and Details: January 2, collision with a Japan Coast Guard De Havilland Canada Dash 8 after landing, resulting in a fire.
- Casualties: Five fatalities on the Coast Guard plane; all 367 passengers and 12 crew on the JAL aircraft escaped.
- Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 9 Incident:
- Date and Details: January 5, mid-air depressurization caused by a blown-out window panel ‘door plug.’
- Casualties: No major passenger injuries reported.
- Boeing 737 MAX 9 Worldwide Scrutiny:
- FAA Oversight: On January 12, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced increased oversight on Boeing, focusing on the cabin pressure control system.
- Boeing CEO’s Response: Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun acknowledged mistakes and committed to addressing the issues.
- Grounding Decision: The FAA grounded every Boeing 737 MAX 9 with a plug door pending a thorough review.
Significance
- Advances in Aircraft Manufacturing Technology:
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- Composite Materials: Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 and 777 incorporate advanced composite materials for durability, strength, and reduced weight.
- Real-world Test: The JAL Airbus fire served as a real-world test for the A350’s composite structure, providing valuable technical insights.
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- Crew Training and Response:
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- JAL Airbus Incident: Despite malfunctioning public announcement systems, the crew successfully evacuated all passengers through emergency exits, highlighting the importance of crew training.
- Boeing CEO’s Commitment: Boeing’s commitment to addressing mistakes and the FAA’s increased oversight emphasize the role of crew training in addressing safety concerns.
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- Safety Improvements and Standards:
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- FAA-Governed Improvements: Improved flammability of seat cushions, emergency escape path marking, lavatory safety measures, and improved interior materials are part of safety improvements overseen by the FAA.
- Aircraft Certification: Stringent aircraft certification requirements ensure safety standards are met, and evacuation tests, such as the 90-second rule, apply to all aircraft.
Wayforward:
- Regulatory Vigilance: Continued vigilance and oversight by aviation regulatory bodies, such as the FAA, are crucial for identifying and addressing potential safety concerns promptly.
- Crew Training and Emergency Preparedness:
- Regular Exercises: Airlines should prioritize stringent crew emergency training, including written tests and regular exercises, as demonstrated by Japan Airlines.
- Response Time: Crews must be well-prepared to handle emergency situations promptly, ensuring the safety of passengers.
- Technological Advancements and Research:
- Ongoing Research: Continued research into materials and technologies used in aircraft manufacturing is essential for enhancing safety measures.
- Industry Collaboration: Collaboration between aircraft manufacturers, regulators, and researchers can contribute to advancements in safety technologies.
International Civil Aviation Organisation
- ICAO is a United Nations (UN) specialized agency, established in 1944, which laid the foundation for the standards and procedures for peaceful global air navigation.
- The Convention on International Civil Aviation was signed on 7th December 1944 in Chicago (hence called Chicago Convention 1944).
- It established the core principles permitting international transport by air, and also led to the creation of the ICAO.
- It covers a wide range of issues, including the rights of aircraft in international airspace, the registration of aircraft, safety standards, air traffic control, and environmental protection.
- One of the objectives of ICAO is to foster the planning and development of international air transport so as to ensure the safe and orderly growth of international civil aviation throughout the world. India is among its 193 members.
- It is headquartered in Montreal, Canada.
Nut Graf: The recent aviation incidents underscore the critical importance of maintaining and advancing aviation safety standards. Advances in aircraft manufacturing technology, crew training, and regulatory oversight play pivotal roles in ensuring the safety of air travel.
D. GS 4 Related
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E. Editorials
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F. Prelims Facts
1. Army adopts Topa Pir as model village after civilian deaths
Context: The recent adoption of Topa Pir village by the Indian Army under the Sadbhavana scheme marks a significant development in its approach towards engaging with the local populace in the Pir Panjal valley, a region that has become a new battleground in the complex landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.
- This initiative follows the tragic incident where three civilians allegedly died from torture in Army custody, leading to widespread criticism and a dent in goodwill among the Gujjars and Bakarwals inhabiting areas close to the Line of Control (LoC) in the region.
Issues
- Alleged Civilian Deaths: The adoption of Topa Pir as a model village comes in the aftermath of a disturbing incident where three civilians lost their lives under alleged torture in Army custody, creating a tense environment in the Pir Panjal valley.
- Impact on Relations: The incident has adversely affected the Army’s relationship with the local population, particularly the Gujjars and Bakarwals. The viral video of the alleged torture and the subsequent deaths have fueled resentment and eroded the goodwill that existed.
- Security Challenges: The Pir Panjal valley has emerged as a new battleground in Jammu and Kashmir, adding complexity to the security situation. The need to balance security concerns with community engagement becomes paramount.
Operation Sadbhavana
- As part of ‘Operation SADBHAVANA’, Indian Army is undertaking multiple welfare activities such as Army Goodwill Schools, Infra-development projects, education tours etc. for the children living in remote areas of UT of Ladakh.
- The Indian Army is presently running 7 Army Goodwill Schools under ‘Operation SADBHAVANA’ in Ladakh Region. More than 2,200 Students are currently studying in these schools.
- Under this initiative (in FY 22-23), medical camps, veterinary camps, provision of medical equipment, upgradation of medical infrastructure and staffing of Medical Aid Centres have been provided at various remote locations in Ladakh. Women in remote areas of Ladakh are also being inducted in Vocational Training Centres, Women Empowerment Centres and Computer Centres organised and funded through SADBHAVNA.
- Operation SADBHAVANA (Goodwill) is a unique humane initiative undertaken by Indian Army and formalised in 1990s in the erstwhile State of J&K to address aspirations of people affected by scrooge of terrorism.
2. India’s oldest living city found in Vadnagar: multi-institution study
Context: A recent joint study by five prominent institutions has revealed intriguing evidence of cultural continuity in Vadnagar, Gujarat, challenging the conventional narrative of a “Dark Age” following the collapse of the Harappan civilization.
- Led by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and supported by institutions such as the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, the study indicates the presence of a human settlement in Vadnagar dating back to 800 BCE, contemporary to the late-Vedic/pre-Buddhist Mahajanapadas or oligarchic republics.
Issues
- Conventional Notions of Dark Age: The period between the collapse of the Indus Valley Civilization and the emergence of the Iron Age has traditionally been considered a Dark Age. However, the recent findings challenge this perception, suggesting continuous human settlement and cultural development in Vadnagar.
- Climate-Driven Historical Changes: The study proposes that the rise and fall of different kingdoms and recurrent invasions in India over a 3,000-year period were influenced by severe changes in climate, such as rainfall or droughts. This brings a climatic perspective to historical events, linking them to environmental factors.
Significance
- Cultural Continuity in Vadnagar: The excavation in Vadnagar has unearthed evidence of a multicultural and multireligious settlement, including Buddhist, Hindu, Jain, and Islamic influences. The discovery of seven cultural stages spanning Mauryan to Gaekwad-British colonial rule indicates the city’s enduring nature.
- Support for Digital Museum: The study was funded by the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums (Government of Gujarat), responsible for building India’s first experiential digital museum in Vadnagar. This indicates the practical application of the research in preserving and presenting historical heritage.
- Generous Funding and Support: The research at Vadnagar and the broader Indus Valley Civilization has received substantial funding from Sudha Murthy, the former chairperson of the Infosys Foundation, over the past five years. This underscores the importance of private support in advancing archaeological studies.
About Vadnagar
- The town’s fortifications, arched gateways (toranas), temples, wells, residential structures (kothis) and excavated sites like Buddhist monasteries and dedicated stupas showcase the architectural influence of various cultural periods.
- The extensive water management system here has also played a role in the town’s continuity.
- The study of the historical geography of ancient India reveals Vadnagar was situated at a strategic location of two major ancient trade routes:
- one joining central India with the Sindh and further northwest regions, while another connected the port towns on Gujarat’s coast to northern India.
- A gold coin, believed to be from the Mamluk dynasty of Egypt that dated back to the 15th century, was also found.
- The first excavations in Vadnagar happened in 1953-54 and were later taken up by the Gujarat state archaeology and museum directorate in 2006.
- Vadnagar: A centre of Buddhism: Chinese traveller Xuanzang or Hieun Tsang is said to have visited Vadnagar around 641 AD, referring to it as ‘Anandpur’ in his writings, which also record how more than 1,000 monks of the Sammitiya School or Little Vehicle lived in 10 monasteries at Vadnagar.
3. Luxembourg overtakes Mauritius as India’s third-largest FPI region; France enters the top 10
Context: Recent data reveals a significant shift in the hierarchy of foreign portfolio investors (FPI) contributing to India’s economic landscape.
- Luxembourg has surpassed Mauritius to secure the third position in terms of assets under custody (AUC), while France has entered the top 10 club.
Details:
- Mauritius’ Dip in Investments: Mauritius experienced a 9% decline in investments to ₹3.9-lakh crore due to increased regulatory oversight. The renegotiated tax treaty with India, making capital gains on the sale of shares fully taxable after April 1, 2019, contributed to this decline.
- Luxembourg’s Ascendancy: Luxembourg’s AUC surged by 30% to ₹4.85-lakh crore, making it the third-largest FPI region. The rise is attributed to strengthened trade relations between Europe and India, marked by three financial agreements since 2020. Luxembourg’s regulatory stability is cited as a factor, providing it with an advantageous position compared to traditional tax havens.
- France’s Resurgence: France entered the top 10 FPI contributors with a noteworthy 74% growth in AUC, amounting to ₹1.88-lakh crore. Geopolitical events like Brexit and favorable tax treatment on FPI investments played a pivotal role in France’s resurgence.
- Canada’s Position: Canada, despite experiencing a 19% year-on-year growth in AUC, slipped one place in the ranking. The potential impact of the diplomatic row between India and Canada on investments remains uncertain.
Significance
- Evolving Regulatory Landscape: Luxembourg’s rise is linked to its better-regulated environment compared to traditional tax havens. This underscores the significance of evolving regulations for foreign investments in India, with investors seeking jurisdictions with robust regulatory frameworks.
- Geopolitical Influences: France’s growth and Canada’s slight decline are attributed to geopolitical events. Changes in the global political landscape, such as Brexit, and favorable tax treatment significantly impact FPI destinations.
- Diversification Beyond Traditional Havens: The surge in AUM is seen as a response to investors exploring new fund locations beyond traditional havens facing increased scrutiny. This diversification is a strategic move to adapt to changing regulatory dynamics.
G. Tidbits
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H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1.Consider the following statements regarding the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY):
- It is largest crop insurance scheme in the history of independent India and globally, the third largest scheme in terms of premium.
- It was launched in 2016.
- All farmers (both loanee and non-loanee) including sharecroppers and tenant farmers growing the notified crops in notified areas are eligible for coverage.
How many statements given above is/are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY):It is largest crop insurance scheme in the history of independent India and globally, the third largest scheme in terms of premium.
It was launched in 2016. All farmers (both loanee and non-loanee) including sharecroppers and tenant farmers growing the notified crops in notified areas are eligible for coverage.
Q2. Consider the following statements regarding the Cervical Cancer:
- It starts in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower, narrow end of the uterus & connects the uterus to the vagina.
- Before cancer appears in the cervix, the cells of the cervix go through changes known as dysplasia, in which abnormal cells begin to appear in the cervical tissue.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:
Cervical Cancer: It starts in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower, narrow end of the uterus & connects the uterus to the vagina.
Before cancer appears in the cervix, the cells of the cervix go through changes known as dysplasia, in which abnormal cells begin to appear in the cervical tissue.
Q3. Consider the following statements regarding the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):
- Clause 35 of the Companies Act, 2016, oversees the implementation of CSR.
- India became the first country to enforce mandatory CSR expenditure and establish a structured approach for identifying suitable CSR initiatives.
- Companies Act, 2016 motivates companies to allocate 2% of their average net profit from the preceding three years towards CSR endeavors.
How many of the above statements is/are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Explanation:
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Involves corporate initiatives aimed at evaluating and assuming responsibility for a company’s impact on the environment and its influence on social welfare. In the Indian context, the framework for CSR is defined by clause 135 of the Companies Act, 2013.India – inaugural country worldwide to enforce mandatory CSR spending, accompanied by a structured approach for identifying potential CSR activities.
The CSR provisions within the Act are applicable to companies with an annual turnover of 1,000 crore or more, a net worth of Rs. 500 crore or more, or a net profit of Rs. 5 crore or more. The legislation mandates companies to establish a CSR committee responsible for recommending a Corporate Social Responsibility Policy to the Board of Directors and monitoring its implementation. As per the Act, companies are encouraged to allocate 2% of their average net profit from the preceding three years to CSR activities.
Q4. Operation Sarvashakti, recently seen in the news, pertains to-
- Fully immunize more than 89 lakh children who are either unvaccinated or partially vaccinated under Universal Immunisation Programme.
- Involving security forces from both sides of the Pir Panjal range in J&K to flush out terrorists.
- Provide income support to all landholding Farmers’ families.
- None
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation: Operation Sarvashakti- Involving security forces from both sides of the Pir Panjal range in J&K to flush out terrorists.
Q5. Which one of the following statement about Sangam literature in ancient South India is correct?
- Sangam poems are devoid of any reference to material culture.
- The social classification of Varna was known to Sangam poets
- Sangam poems have no reference to warrior ethic.
- Sangam literature refers to magical forces as irrational.
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
Tamil scholars assert the existence of three Sangams, or academies of Tamil poets, in ancient Tamil Nadu, also known as Muchchangam.
The Sangam literature, a collection of poems, emerged over a span of six centuries, spanning from approximately 300 BCE to 300 CE, crafted by Tamils representing diverse social backgrounds.
Compiled into anthologies several centuries later, these literary pieces offer glimpses into the material culture of the times and provide vivid descriptions of significant warriors.
They serve as a valuable source shedding light on early Tamil culture and illuminating the trade connections between South India and regions such as the Mediterranean, West Asia, and Southeast Asia.
Sangam poets were cognizant of the social classification system known as Varna. Within Tolkappiyam’s Purattinai, a Sutra (74) stands out, employing the term “Vahai” to signify four Varnas, thereby reflecting the awareness of social categories among the poets of that era.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- International Court of Justice (ICJ) hasn’t been able to fulfill its mandate mainly due to lack of implementation power. In this regard, suggest reforms needed in the working of the ICJ. (250 words, 15 marks) (General Studies – II, International Relations)
- Describe the Government of India’s efforts to ensure safety of civil aviation in India. (250 words, 15 marks) (General Studies – III, Economy )
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