02 Jul 2024: UPSC Exam Comprehensive News Analysis

02 July 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

A. GS 1 Related
B. GS 2 Related
GOVERNANCE
1. Govt. undecided on deadline to fix boundaries for Census
C. GS 3 Related
D. GS 4 Related
E. Editorials
POLITY
1. Sense of uncertainty
2. A tool to ensure complete voter anonymity
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. Israel is facing a strategic defeat in Gaza
F. Prelims Facts
1. Field evaluation trials of submarine bids under Project-75I complete
2. Air India to set up flight training school in Amaravati
3. Kozhikode secures ‘City of Literature’ status at annual UCCN conference held in Portugal
G. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
H. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
FIP Magazine

Syllabus: Government policies and interventions for the development of various sectors

Prelims: Census

Mains: Significance of Census

Context​: The deadline to freeze administrative boundaries for the Census exercise ended recently without a new date being announced. This uncertainty impacts the dates for the upcoming Census, which was last held in 2011. The deadline has been extended nine times since December 2020. 

Issues

Ambiguity in Census Schedule:

  • The lack of a new deadline for freezing administrative boundaries creates uncertainty for the Census timeline.
  • A former Census official noted that without an extension order, the Census could be delayed by another three to six months.
  • The preparation of enumerators and digital training for the Census requires at least three months, pushing the Census timeline further.

Impact on Women’s Quota Implementation:

  • The Women’s Reservation Act, reserving 33% of seats in Parliament and Assemblies for women, depends on the Census.
  • The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam requires delimitation based on the first Census after the Act’s commencement.
  • Union Home Minister Amit Shah mentioned that the Census and delimitation would occur after the Lok Sabha election but did not specify the year.

Demand for Caste Census:

  • The Janata Dal (United) and other parties have demanded a caste census.
  • Bihar has initiated steps towards a caste census, with significant political support.

Significance

Administrative Preparedness:

  • Freezing administrative boundaries is crucial for an accurate and efficient Census.
  • Delays in this process can hinder the preparation and execution of the Census.

Political and Social Implications:

  • The Census data is vital for policy-making, resource allocation, and socio-economic planning.
  • Delays can affect the implementation of significant legislation like the Women’s Reservation Act.

Technological Transition:

  • The upcoming Census will be digital, requiring extensive training and new methodologies.
  • Proper timing and preparation are essential for a smooth transition to a digital Census.

Solutions

Timely Decision-Making:

  • The government needs to promptly decide and announce the new deadline for freezing administrative boundaries.
  • Clear communication and coordination with State governments are essential.

Extended Preparation Period:

  • Allocating sufficient time for the preparation and training of enumerators is crucial.
  • Ensuring that digital infrastructure and processes are well-established before the Census begins.

Addressing Political Demands:

  • Engaging with political parties and stakeholders to address demands like the caste census.
  • Ensuring that the Census process is inclusive and reflects the diverse needs of the population.

Nut Graf: The indecision on the deadline for freezing administrative boundaries poses significant challenges for the upcoming Census. This uncertainty affects not only the Census timeline but also the implementation of crucial policies like the Women’s Reservation Act. Prompt and decisive action by the government is needed to ensure that the Census is conducted efficiently and accurately, reflecting the socio-economic dynamics of the country.

Syllabus: GS-2, Salient Features of the Representation of People’s Act

Mains: Need of Totaliser in vote counting 

Context:

  • Janata Dal (United) candidate from Sitamarhi Lok Sabha seat, Devesh Chandra Thakur, faced criticism for allegedly breaching the Model Code of Conduct.
  • Thakur’s controversial statement suggested he would not help Muslims and Yadavs who did not support him.
  • This statement was seen as undermining democratic principles and the constitutional relationship between citizens and their representatives.

ECI’s Proposal for Voter Anonymity:

  • Voter secrecy is crucial to impartial elections, preventing retribution or inducement.
  • Rule 56 of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961 ensures ballot anonymity by rejecting identifiable ballots.
  • Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) make traditional ballot mixing impossible, leading to calls for using a totaliser.

Totaliser Introduction and Controversy:

  • Totaliser, introduced in 2007, masks booth-level voting patterns to prevent post-election harassment.
  • Demonstrated in 2008 and trialled in 2009 bye-elections in Meghalaya and Uttar Pradesh.
  • The proposal has moved between the Election Commission of India (ECI), government, and courts without implementation.

Legal and Political Developments:

  • In 2011, the Madras High Court ordered the government to consider ECI’s recommendation for totaliser.
  • In 2014, a Supreme Court petition sought to declare overall constituency results instead of booth-wise to protect voter privacy.
  • ECI reaffirmed the necessity of totaliser, while the government opposed it, stating it served no larger public interest.

Current Status and Opinions:

  • The Law Commission of India endorsed the ECI’s proposal in its 255th Report.
  • Political parties have mixed views: some support, some oppose, and others suggest a phased introduction.
  • The matter has remained dormant since 2018, with the ongoing debate about technology’s role in ensuring voter anonymity and addressing biases.

Nut Graf: The proposal to use a totaliser for ensuring voter anonymity, amid controversies and mixed political opinions, remains unresolved, reflecting ongoing debates about the role of technology in safeguarding democratic principles and preventing post-election voter harassment.

Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

1. Israel is facing a strategic defeat in Gaza

Syllabus: GS-2, Effect of Policies and Politics of Developed and Developing Countries on India’s Interests

Mains: Disruption in West Asia 

Introduction: 

  • Israel declared war on Gaza following a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, killing at least 1,200 people.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu aimed to “crush” Hamas and eliminate the group entirely.
  • Gaza has been under an Israeli blockade since 2007; a total siege was imposed post-attack, followed by heavy air strikes and an invasion.

Impact on Gaza and Lack of Victory:

  • Gaza’s pre-war population was 2.3 million, with almost all displaced.
  • Over 37,000 people were killed and 86,000 wounded.
  • Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari acknowledged that eliminating Hamas is not feasible.

Northern Dilemma with Hezbollah:

  • Hezbollah launched controlled attacks from southern Lebanon, displacing 60,000 Israelis.
  • Israel’s strikes in Lebanon have not deterred Hezbollah; an invasion would be challenging.
  • A potential war with Hezbollah would be more difficult than the 2006 conflict.

Iran’s Influence and Nuclear Threat:

  • Israel targeted Iranian officers in Syria and the Iranian embassy in Damascus, prompting a strong response from Iran.
  • Iran has escalated its nuclear program, while Israel remains embroiled in Gaza and cautious of open war with Iran.

Setback in the Arab Normalisation Process:

  • Pre-war, Israel was expanding regional cooperation with Arab countries.
  • Talks with Saudi Arabia have stalled; Riyadh demands a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders.

International Isolation and Legal Challenges:

  • Israel faces global isolation and legal challenges, including UN resolutions calling for a ceasefire and cases at the ICJ and ICC.
  • Student protests and dissenting voices in Washington are rising, though President Biden supports Israel.

Re-emergence of the Palestine Question:

  • The war has brought the Palestine issue back to the forefront of West Asian geopolitics.
  • Three European countries recognized Palestine in May 2024, with more likely to follow.

Strategic and Tactical Implications:

  • Israel’s strategic environment has become more hostile, with no clear objectives or easy exit from the conflict.
  • Netanyahu’s continued war efforts may exacerbate the hostile environment.
  • Israeli leaders are urged to comprehensively review their strategies and tactics.

Nut Graf: Israel’s war on Gaza, initially aimed at eliminating Hamas, has led to widespread destruction, international isolation, and strategic setbacks, including escalating tensions with Hezbollah and Iran. The conflict has reignited the Palestine issue, complicating Israel’s regional and global standing.

F. Prelims Facts

1. Field evaluation trials of submarine bids under Project-75I complete

Context: The Indian Navy’s Project-75I, aimed at acquiring advanced submarines, has reached a significant milestone with the completion of field evaluation trials (FET). This ₹43,000 crore deal involves bids from Germany’s Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) and Spain’s Navantia. These trials are crucial to ensure that the bids meet the technical specifications outlined in the Request For Proposal (RFP).

Field Evaluation Trials:

  • The Indian Navy team visited the TKMS shipyard in March, while Navantia’s evaluation was conducted recently.
  • The evaluation report is now being compiled and will be presented to the Defence Ministry for review, a process expected to take about two months.

Technical Compliance:

  • The key determinant for qualifying bids is the Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, which enhances submarine endurance.
  • Navantia will demonstrate its AIP system’s performance in both surface and submerged conditions, which is a critical requirement.

Indigenous Content Requirements:

  • The RFP specifies that the first submarine should have 45% indigenous content (IC), increasing to 60% by the sixth submarine.
  • This requirement ensures that the project contributes to India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

International Diplomatic Efforts:

  • Germany and Spain’s top leaders are scheduled to visit India to promote their respective bids.
  • Diplomatic engagements will play a role in finalizing the inter-governmental agreements necessary for the deal.

Significance

Strategic Partnership Model:

  • The deal is progressing under the Strategic Partnership model, promoting collaboration between Indian shipyards and foreign submarine manufacturers.
  • Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) are the two Indian shipyards shortlisted for this project.

Technological Advancement:

  • The inclusion of advanced AIP systems will significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy’s submarine fleet.
  • The technology transfer aspect of the deal will boost India’s defense manufacturing capabilities.

Geopolitical Implications:

  • The deal will strengthen defense ties with either Germany or Spain, depending on the final selection.
  • Enhanced submarine capabilities will bolster India’s maritime security in a strategically vital region.

2. Air India to set up flight training school in Amaravati

Context: Air India has announced plans to establish a flying training school at Amravati’s Belora airport in Maharashtra. This ₹200 crore initiative aims to graduate 180 pilots annually and is set to open by June 2025. This will be the first flying school set up by an Indian airline, marking a significant development in India’s aviation training infrastructure.

Infrastructure Development:

  • Establishing a state-of-the-art flying training school with modern facilities including digitally enabled classrooms, a digitised operations centre, and a maintenance facility.
  • Ensuring the availability and operational readiness of 31 single-engine Piper Archer aircraft and three twin-engine Diamond DA42 aircraft.

Pilot Training and Quality:

  • Addressing the current lack of sufficient infrastructure and quality training facilities in India, which forces 40% of aspiring pilots to train overseas.
  • Developing a world-class curriculum and training programs that are on par with global standards.

Employment and Economic Impact:

  • Creating employment opportunities within the aviation sector and related industries.
  • Ensuring the school’s contribution to the state’s GDP and overall economic development.

Significance

Boost to Aviation Training:

  • Enhancing India’s domestic flying training infrastructure, reducing the need for aspiring pilots to seek training abroad.
  • Supporting Air India’s ambition to become a world-class airline by providing a steady supply of highly trained pilots.

Economic Benefits:

  • Creating over 3,000 jobs in aviation and allied sectors.
  • Contributing over ₹1,000 crore to Maharashtra’s GDP over the next decade through direct and indirect economic activities.

Skill Development:

  • Providing aspiring pilots with access to state-of-the-art training facilities and high-quality education.
  • Promoting skill development and technical expertise within the Indian aviation industry.

3. Kozhikode secures ‘City of Literature’ status at annual UCCN conference held in Portugal

Context: Kozhikode has been awarded the title of “City of Literature” as part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) at the 16th annual UCCN conference in Portugal. This recognition places Kozhikode among 350 UNESCO Creative Cities globally, showcasing its rich literary heritage and cultural contributions.

Integration into UCCN:

  • New members, including Kozhikode, need to integrate into the existing network and align with its goals.
  • Learning from older members and presenting a clear roadmap for future initiatives is essential.

Youth Involvement:

  • The conference’s theme, “Bringing youth to the table for the next decade,” emphasizes the importance of youth engagement in cultural and creative activities.
  • Kozhikode needs to develop strategies to involve young people in its literary and cultural programs.

Significance

Global Recognition:

  • The “City of Literature” status enhances Kozhikode’s global profile and attracts international attention to its literary heritage.
  • It positions Kozhikode as a cultural hub, encouraging tourism and cultural exchanges.

Cultural Preservation and Promotion:

  • The recognition helps preserve and promote Kozhikode’s rich literary traditions.
  • It provides a platform to showcase local writers, poets, and literary figures on an international stage.

Economic and Social Benefits:

  • The status can stimulate local economies through cultural tourism and related activities.
  • It fosters community pride and social cohesion by highlighting the city’s cultural achievements.

H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions

Q1. Which among the following cities has been declared India’s first UNESCO 
‘City of Literature’?
  1. Patna
  2. Jaipur
  3. Kozhikode
  4. Chennai
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: c

Explanation: Kozhikode in Kerala was declared India’s first UNESCO ‘City of Literature’.

Q2. Consider the following statements:
  1. Project-75 (I) envisages the indigenous construction of six Kalvari Class Diesel-Electric Attack submarines. 
  2. INS Kalvari, the lead boat of the P-75 project was commissioned in 2017.

Which of these statements is/are correct?

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

Answer: c

Explanation: Both the statements are correct. 

Q3. Which among the following statements is correct with respect to the 
Philips Curve:
  1. It is an economic theory that inflation and unemployment have a stable and inverse relationship. 
  2. It is an economic theory that inflation and unemployment have a direct relationship. 
  3. It is a graph that shows the distribution of income or wealth across a population. 
  4. It is used to demonstrate the hypothesis that economic growth initially leads to greater inequality followed later by the reduction of inequality.
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: a

Explanation: The Philips curve is an economic theory that inflation and unemployment have a stable and inverse relationship.

Q4. Consider the following statements with respect to Parliamentary Committees:
  1. A Parliamentary Committee is a panel of MPs that is appointed or elected by the House or nominated by the Speaker/Chairman.
  2. They draw their authority from Article 105 and Article 118.

Which of these statements is/are incorrect?

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

Answer: d

Explanation: Both the statements are correct. 

Q5. Iran shares its borders with how many of these countries?
  1. Iraq
  2. Saudi Arabia
  3. Turkey
  4. Azerbaijan

Choose the correct answer from the code given below:

  1. Only one
  2. Only two
  3. Only three
  4. All four
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: c

Explanation: Iran shares its land borders with Iraq, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan.

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