04 Jul 2024: UPSC Exam Comprehensive News Analysis

04 July 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

A. GS 1 Related
B. GS 2 Related
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. 26/11 accused Rana can be extradited: U.S. Attorney
2. Return Indians stuck in Ukraine warzone: Jaishankar to Lavrov
POLITY
1. Gujarat HC rejects State govt.’s probe report in Vadodara boat Tragedy
C. GS 3 Related
D. GS 4 Related
E. Editorials
DISASTER MANAGEMENT
1. Factory accidents, a pointer to rusty inspection reform
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. Till Russia do us part? NATO at 75, an enduring alliance
F. Prelims Facts
1. Smart Cities Mission period extended till March 2025 for completion of projects
2. Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train expected to begin operations in
3. No Indian industry presence in Board of National Research Foundation
4. Air pollution spikes may raise death rates in cities with cleaner air: says study
5. India to host UNESCO World Heritage Committee session
6. UFO Day rekindles the conspiracy theory that refuses to die
7. Hurricane Beryl kills seven as it churns towards Jamaica
G. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
H. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
FIP Magazine

Syllabus: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

Mains: Pakistan-US-India relations

Context​: The recent developments in the case of Tahawwur Rana, a Pakistan-origin Canadian businessman accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, have significant legal and diplomatic implications. A U.S. attorney has argued that Rana is extraditable to India under the U.S.-India extradition treaty, a statement made during closing arguments before a U.S. Court of Appeals.

Background

  • Tahawwur Rana, aged 63, is currently imprisoned in Los Angeles. He has been accused of playing a significant role in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, which resulted in 166 deaths and 239 injuries. 
  • Rana’s association with Pakistani-American terrorist David Coleman Headley, one of the principal conspirators in the attacks, has been a focal point in the case against him.

Legal Proceedings

  • Rana had filed a writ of habeas corpus in May, challenging the decision of a U.S. District Court in California, which granted the U.S. government’s request to extradite him to India. 
  • Assistant U.S. Attorney Bram Alden, during his closing argument before the U.S. Court of Appeals, stated that Rana is extraditable under the plain provisions of the U.S.-India extradition treaty. Alden emphasized that India has established probable cause to prosecute Rana for his involvement in the terrorist attacks.

Issues

Legal Interpretation

  • The main legal contention revolves around the interpretation of the treaty provisions, specifically the non-bis provision in Article 6-1. 
  • Both India and the United States have agreed on its interpretation, which is based on the elements of the offense rather than the conduct underlying those crimes.

Double Jeopardy

  • Alden referenced the long-standing Supreme Court precedent on double jeopardy, arguing that the treaty’s interpretation should focus on the elements of the offense, aligning with the double jeopardy principle. 
  • However, Rana’s defense attorney, John D. Cline, countered that there is no competent evidence supporting probable cause for Rana’s extradition.

Significance

Bilateral Relations

  • The outcome of this case will have significant implications for U.S.-India relations, particularly in terms of their cooperation on counter-terrorism and legal extradition matters. 
  • Successfully extraditing Rana would be a testament to the strength and efficacy of the bilateral treaty.

Justice and Accountability

  • Extraditing Rana to India is crucial for delivering justice to the victims of the 2008 Mumbai attacks. 
  • It would also set a precedent for holding accountable those who facilitate and participate in international terrorism, regardless of their location.

Solutions

Legal Collaboration

  • Enhanced legal collaboration between India and the U.S. is essential for the smooth extradition process. 
  • Both countries should continue to clarify and align their interpretations of treaty provisions to avoid legal ambiguities.

Strengthening Treaties

  • Revisiting and possibly strengthening the existing extradition treaties to cover emerging challenges and ambiguities can ensure more robust cooperation in future cases. 
  • This can involve clear guidelines on handling cases involving international terrorism.

Nut Graf: The case of Tahawwur Rana is a pivotal moment in international legal cooperation against terrorism. The U.S. attorney’s assertion that Rana is extraditable under the U.S.-India extradition treaty if upheld by the court, will reinforce the bilateral commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring justice. It underscores the importance of legal clarity and collaboration in addressing complex international crimes.

2. Return Indians stuck in Ukraine warzone: Jaishankar to Lavrov

Syllabus: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

Mains: Impact of Russia and Ukraine war on India

Context​: The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has raised significant concerns for India, particularly regarding Indian nationals recruited to work in the war zone. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has expressed strong concern and called upon Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to ensure their safe return during a meeting in Astana, Kazakhstan, on the sidelines of the SCO Council meeting.

Background:

  • SCO Council Meeting: The meeting between Jaishankar and Lavrov took place during the SCO Council meeting in Astana.
  • Bilateral Meeting: This discussion precedes Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Moscow for an annual bilateral meeting with President Vladimir Putin.

Issues Raised

  • Safety of Indian Nationals: Jaishankar highlighted the urgent need for the safe and expeditious return of Indian nationals currently in the war zone.
  • Family Concerns: The families of affected individuals have been pressing the Indian government to take action, indicating the rising domestic pressure on the issue.
  • Recruitment Agencies: Many Indian nationals were reportedly duped by recruitment agencies with false job promises in Russia, only to find themselves working on the frontlines.

Issues

Recruitment and Exploitation

  • Deceptive Practices: Indian nationals were misled by recruitment agencies about job opportunities in Russia.
  • Forced Labour: Some were coerced into working with the Russian military under false pretences.

Diplomatic Challenges

  • Slow Response: The Indian government has been slow in securing the release of its nationals, despite multiple pleas to the Kremlin.
  • Limited Information: The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not provided detailed responses or updates on the situation.

Significance

Humanitarian Concerns

  • Lives at Risk: Four Indian nationals have already lost their lives in the conflict, highlighting the severe risks involved.
  • Family Distress: Families in India are deeply worried about their loved ones trapped in the war zone.

Diplomatic Relations

  • Bilateral Ties: The situation tests the strength of India-Russia relations, with India’s diplomatic efforts under scrutiny.
  • Strategic Implications: How this issue is resolved could impact India’s broader strategic and geopolitical stance.

Solutions

Diplomatic Efforts

  • High-Level Interventions: Prime Minister Modi should directly address the issue with President Putin during his visit.
  • Continuous Dialogue: Sustained diplomatic engagement with Russia to expedite the return of Indian nationals.

Strengthening Policies

  • Regulating Recruitment: Tightening regulations on recruitment agencies to prevent deceptive practices.
  • Support Systems: Establishing robust support systems for Indian nationals working abroad to prevent similar situations in the future.

Nut Graf: The safety and return of Indian nationals trapped in the Russia-Ukraine war zone is a pressing humanitarian issue that requires immediate and sustained diplomatic efforts. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s engagement with his Russian counterpart is a step in the right direction, but continuous high-level intervention and strategic policies are essential to ensure their safe return and prevent future exploitation of Indian workers abroad.

Category: POLITY

1. Gujarat HC rejects State govt.’s probe report in Vadodara boat Tragedy

Syllabus: High Court judgements

Mains: HC case on Vadodara boat Tragedy

Context​: The Gujarat High Court has rejected an inquiry report submitted by the State government regarding the boat tragedy in Vadodara, which occurred on January 18 and resulted in the deaths of twelve students and two teachers. The court has ordered a fresh probe, criticizing the report for protecting the then Vadodara Municipal Commissioner despite evident irregularities.

Incident Overview

  • Date and Location: The tragedy took place on January 18 at Motnath Lake in the Harni area of Vadodara city.
  • Casualties: Twelve students and two teachers lost their lives when their boat capsized.
  • Contract Award: The Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) had awarded the contract for maintaining and operating the lakefront to Kotia Projects, an unqualified firm.

Court’s Criticism

  • Inquiry Report: The report submitted by the State government was criticized for absolving the former municipal commissioner, who had awarded the contract to an unqualified firm.
  • Principal Secretary: The court criticized the Principal Secretary of the Urban Development and Urban Housing Department for preparing and submitting the report six months after the incident.
  • Contractor’s Qualifications: The court noted that even a layperson could see that the contractor was unqualified, yet the report claimed the commissioner did nothing wrong.

Issues

Accountability and Transparency

  • Unqualified Contractor: The decision to award the contract to an unqualified firm raises questions about the due diligence and accountability of the municipal authorities.
  • Delay in Inquiry: The delay in submitting the inquiry report suggests a lack of urgency and seriousness in addressing the tragedy.

Judicial Intervention

  • Suo Motu PIL: The Division Bench of Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal and Justice Pranav Trivedi took up the case suo motu, indicating the judiciary’s proactive role in ensuring justice.

Significance

Ensuring Justice

  • Victims’ Families: A thorough and impartial investigation is essential to deliver justice to the families of the victims and hold those responsible accountable.
  • Public Trust: The court’s intervention reinforces public trust in the judiciary and its commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.

Systemic Reforms

  • Contract Awarding Process: The incident highlights the need for systemic reforms in the process of awarding contracts to ensure only qualified and competent firms are selected.
  • Government Accountability: The case underscores the importance of government accountability and the need for rigorous oversight mechanisms.

Solutions

Fresh Inquiry

  • Impartial Investigation: Conduct a fresh, impartial inquiry into the incident, ensuring that all responsible parties are held accountable.
  • Expert Committee: Form an expert committee to review the inquiry process and ensure it meets the highest standards of transparency and fairness.

Policy Reforms

  • Strengthening Oversight: Implement stricter oversight mechanisms for awarding contracts, including thorough background checks and qualifications verification.
  • Transparency Measures: Increase transparency in the decision-making processes of municipal corporations and other governmental bodies.

Nut Graf: The rejection of the State government’s inquiry report into the Vadodara boat tragedy by the Gujarat High Court underscores the need for accountability and transparency in governance. This incident also highlights the necessity for systemic reforms in the contract awarding process to prevent such tragedies in the future. The judiciary’s proactive role in ensuring justice serves as a reminder of the importance of rigorous oversight and accountability in public administration.

Syllabus: GS-2, Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

Mains: Relevance of NATO

Introduction:

  • NATO was established on April 4, 1949, initially as the ‘Atlantic Alliance’.
  • The founding members included the U.S., Canada, the U.K., France, Belgium, and other European nations.
  • It aimed to deter Soviet Union expansion under Stalin in Eastern and Central Europe.
  • The alliance’s first secretary general, Baron Hastings ‘Pug’ Ismay, described its purpose: “to keep the Soviet Union out, the Americans in, and the Germans down.”

Key Historical Moments:

  • The Berlin Blockade in June 1948 and the subsequent Berlin Airlift significantly impacted NATO’s formation.
  • The Brussels Pact of March 1948 included the Low Countries and was led by Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery.
  • Despite democratic ideals, NATO included non-democratic states like Salazar’s Portugal and used secret ‘stay-behind armies’.

NATO’s Evolution and Challenges:

  • The Soviet proposal in March 1954 to join NATO highlights complex diplomatic manoeuvres.
  • From its inception, NATO faced internal tensions between Western European powers and the U.S..
  • Key historical events like the Treaty of Dunkirk in 1947 and the Soviet-backed coup in Czechoslovakia influenced NATO’s development.

NATO in Modern Context:

  • After failures in Afghanistan, Russia’s aggression revitalised NATO’s relevance.
  • Peter Apps’ biography, “Deterring Armageddon,” and Wallace Thies’ “Why NATO Endures” provide insights into NATO’s longevity and challenges.
  • NATO’s commitment to integration and transparency distinguishes it from pre-1939 alliances characterised by mistrust and opportunism.

Nut Graf: NATO, formed in 1949 to deter Soviet expansion, has endured significant challenges and adaptations. Despite internal tensions and past failures, the alliance remains relevant, particularly in response to recent Russian aggression, highlighting its lasting importance in global security dynamics.

F. Prelims Facts

1. Smart Cities Mission period extended till March 2025 for completion of projects

Context: The Centre has extended the Smart Cities Mission (SCM) under the Union Urban Development Ministry till March 31, 2025. Launched in June 2015, the mission aims to develop 100 cities across India into smart cities through various multi-sectoral projects.

Overview of Smart Cities Mission

  • Launch: The SCM was launched in June 2015.
  • Objective: To develop selected cities as model smart cities based on area development plans, fostering a holistic improvement in urban infrastructure and services.
  • Selection Process: 100 cities were chosen through a competitive process.
  • Projects: More than 8,000 multi-sectoral projects amounting to approximately ₹1.6 lakh crore are being developed.

Progress and Achievements

  • Completed Projects: As of July 3, 2024, 7,188 projects (90% of the total) have been completed.
  • Types of Projects: The projects span various sectors, including urban mobility, water supply, sanitation, energy management, and public safety.

Issues

Implementation Challenges

  • Delays: Some projects have faced delays due to bureaucratic hurdles, land acquisition issues, and funding constraints.
  • Coordination: Coordination between multiple stakeholders, including central and state governments, urban local bodies, and private partners, has been complex.

Financial Management

  • Funding: Ensuring adequate and timely funding for the extensive range of projects has been a significant challenge.
  • Cost Overruns: Some projects have experienced cost overruns, impacting the overall budget and timelines.

Significance

Urban Development

  • Infrastructure Improvement: The SCM has led to substantial improvements in urban infrastructure, making cities more livable and sustainable.
  • Economic Growth: Enhanced urban infrastructure has the potential to boost economic activities and create job opportunities.

Technological Advancements

  • Smart Solutions: The implementation of smart solutions, such as intelligent traffic management, smart grids, and e-governance, has improved the efficiency of urban services.
  • Data Utilization: The mission has promoted the use of data analytics and IoT (Internet of Things) in urban planning and management.

2. Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train expected to begin operations in

Context: The Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train, a significant infrastructure project spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is slated to begin operations in Gujarat by the end of 2027. The project is being developed by the National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) and will eventually extend to Maharashtra.

Project Details

  • Route: The total length of the rail corridor is 508 km, with 90% of it elevated.
  • Stations: Twelve stations are planned along the route—eight in Gujarat (Sabarmati, Ahmedabad, Anand, Vadodara, Bharuch, Surat, Bilimora, and Vapi) and four in Maharashtra (Boisar, Virar, Thane, and Mumbai).
  • Trial Runs: Expected to begin in 2026 between Surat and Bilimora, a 50-km stretch.
  • Commercial Operations: Expected to commence between Vadodara and Vapi by the end of 2027.
  • Travel Time: The bullet train will reduce travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad to three hours, compared to the current fastest train, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Vande Bharat, which takes five and a half hours.

Progress

  • Completion Status: As of May 2024, the project is 44% complete overall, with 53% of the work done in Gujarat and 25.6% in Maharashtra.
  • Construction Milestones: 183 km of viaduct and 313 km of pier work completed. The laying of tracks has begun in Gujarat.
  • Land Acquisition: Completed for the entire corridor, with 960 hectares in Gujarat and Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and 430 hectares in Maharashtra.
  • Tunnels: Construction of India’s first undersea rail tunnel, a 7-km stretch, is underway in Maharashtra. Excavation for five mountain tunnels in Palghar is ongoing.

Issues

Delays and Challenges

  • Initial Deadline: The project was initially set to be completed by December 2023 but faced delays.
  • Land Acquisition: Challenges, particularly in Maharashtra, have been a significant factor in the delays.
  • Pandemic Impact: COVID-19 restrictions further hindered progress.

Cost and Funding

  • Estimated Cost: ₹1.08 lakh crore.
  • Funding: Funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) through an Official Development Assistance (ODA). The last tranche was signed in December 2023 for 400 billion Japanese yen (approximately ₹22,627 crore).

Significance

Economic Impact

  • Boost to Economy: The project is expected to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and enhance connectivity between two major commercial hubs.
  • Technological Advancement: Introduction of high-speed rail technology in India, setting a precedent for future projects.

Political and Social Impact

  • Political Milestone: A major initiative under Prime Minister Modi’s vision, aligning with his broader infrastructure development goals.
  • Social Benefits: Improved travel experience, reduced travel time, and potential decongestion of current rail and road networks.

3. No Indian industry presence in Board of National Research Foundation

Context: The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) was established to provide strategic direction to scientific research in India, promoting basic research in science and engineering. However, recent disclosures reveal the absence of significant Indian industry representation in its Executive and Governing Boards.

Composition of ANRF Boards

  • Executive and Governing Boards: The boards consist of 15 members, including prominent scientists and academicians.
  • Lack of Industry Representation: Only one industrialist, Romesh Wadhwani, an American billionaire of Indian origin, is included.
  • Academic Representation: Limited to Directors of the Indian Institute of Science and the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research.
  • Government Representation: Includes Ministers of Science and Education, and Secretaries of departments under the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST).

Expected Industry Involvement

  • ANRF Act Provisions: The Act envisages significant funding from non-government sources, including industry and philanthropists, amounting to 70% of its five-year outlay of ₹50,000 crore.
  • Authority to Appoint: The Prime Minister, as the President of the Governing Board, is empowered to appoint up to five members from business organizations or industry.

Issues

Absence of Industry Stakeholders

  • Funding Concerns: The absence of substantial industry representation raises questions about the involvement and contribution of the industry in funding and strategic planning.
  • Missed Opportunities: Potential benefits from industry collaboration, such as practical insights, technological advancements, and financial investments, are not fully realized.

Limited Representation from State Universities

  • Broader Reach: State universities, expected to be major beneficiaries, lack representation, potentially limiting the ANRF’s impact on a broader academic and research community.

Significance

Strategic Research Promotion

  • Holistic Research Approach: The ANRF aims to promote a wide range of research areas, including science, engineering, IT, Liberal Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities.
  • Reformative Potential: As a significant reform, the ANRF could catalyze advancements in research and innovation across multiple disciplines.

Economic and Technological Growth

  • Innovation Ecosystem: Effective industry collaboration could enhance the innovation ecosystem, driving economic growth and technological progress.
  • Global Competitiveness: Increased industry participation could position India as a leader in global scientific research and innovation.

4. Air pollution spikes may raise death rates in cities with cleaner air: says study

Context: A recent study highlights that spikes in air pollution can significantly raise death rates in Indian cities with cleaner air, potentially more than in cities with higher pollution levels. The multi-city analysis, published in Lancet Planet Health, examined the health effects of short-term exposure to air pollution across 10 Indian cities.

Key Findings

  • Study Scope: The analysis included Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune, Shimla, and Varanasi.
  • Death Rates: Delhi reported around 12,000 deaths annually due to air pollution, while Shimla had the lowest with 59 deaths per year.
  • Pollution Exposure: Bengaluru’s population experienced 30% of the daily air pollution exposure compared to Delhi residents.
  • PM 2.5 Impact: The study found a 1.42% increase in daily deaths for every 10 microgram per cubic metre increase in PM 2.5 levels over two days.

Comparative Analysis

  • Death Attributable to Pollution: 11.5% of Delhi’s annual deaths were attributed to air pollution, compared to 4.8% in Bengaluru.
  • Global Context: Similar studies in other countries showed varying mortality risks, with higher death rates observed in countries with lower baseline pollution levels like Greece (2.54%), Japan (1.42%), and Spain (1.96%).

Issues

Health Risks

  • Increased Mortality: Spikes in PM 2.5 levels pose significant health risks, especially in cities with generally lower pollution levels.
  • Vulnerability: Populations in cleaner cities may be more vulnerable to sudden increases in air pollution due to lower baseline exposure and adaptation.

Policy and Standards

  • Current Standards: The study found a high mortality risk (2.65%) even at PM 2.5 levels below the Indian national air quality standard of 60 micrograms per cubic metre.
  • Need for Revision: Existing air quality standards may not adequately protect public health, necessitating a review and potential tightening of these limits.

Significance

Public Health Implications

  • Awareness: The findings highlight the need for increased awareness about the health impacts of air pollution, even in relatively cleaner cities.
  • Preventive Measures: Emphasizes the importance of preventive measures and emergency response strategies during pollution spikes.

Policy Formulation

  • Data-Driven Policies: The study provides crucial data that can inform more effective and responsive air quality management policies.
  • International Comparison: Comparing mortality risks with other countries can guide India in adopting best practices and setting more stringent air quality standards.

5. India to host UNESCO World Heritage Committee session

Context: India is set to host the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee from July 21-31 at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This prestigious event will see participation from over 2,500 delegates, including state parties, advisory bodies, senior diplomats, heritage experts, scholars, and researchers from 195 countries.

UNESCO World Heritage Committee

  • Composition: The committee consists of representatives from 21 state parties elected by the General Assembly.
  • Role: The committee is responsible for the implementation of the World Heritage Convention (1972), which aims to identify, protect, and preserve cultural and natural heritage worldwide.

Issues

Coordination and Logistics

  • Large-scale Organization: Managing an event of this magnitude requires meticulous planning and coordination.
  • Security: Ensuring the safety and security of delegates from 195 countries is paramount.
  • Infrastructure: Providing adequate facilities and amenities for the delegates and managing the flow of activities seamlessly.

Cultural Diplomacy

  • Representation: Ensuring fair representation and participation of all state parties.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Addressing and respecting the diverse cultural backgrounds of the participants.

Significance

Global Recognition

  • International Standing: Hosting the UNESCO World Heritage Committee session enhances India’s global standing and showcases its commitment to cultural heritage preservation.
  • Tourism Boost: The event can boost tourism by highlighting India’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Heritage Conservation

  • Awareness and Advocacy: The session will provide a platform to discuss and advocate for the conservation of cultural and natural heritage.
  • Collaboration: Opportunities for collaboration and exchange of best practices among heritage experts, scholars, and researchers.

6. UFO Day rekindles the conspiracy theory that refuses to die

Context: World UFO Day commemorates the intriguing and enduring interest in unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and extraterrestrial life. Despite numerous investigations and official reports debunking the existence of extraterrestrial evidence, the fascination with UFOs persists globally.

Background

  • Roswell Incident: On July 2, 1947, an unidentified object crashed near Roswell, New Mexico. Initial reports suggested it was a “flying disc,” but the U.S. military later claimed it was a weather balloon.
  • Investigations: The U.S. Air Force’s 1994 investigation concluded the object was likely a secret military balloon. A 2021 U.S. government report reviewed 144 sightings and found no extraterrestrial links.

Recent Developments

  • Claims and Testimonies: In 2022, retired Air Force Maj. David Grusch testified about a supposed U.S. programme to retrieve and reverse-engineer UFOs. The Pentagon denied these claims.
  • Mexican Congress Session: In September, supposed mummies presented as “nonhuman beings” were showcased, which Mexican researchers later debunked.
  • NASA’s Role: NASA appointed a director of research for “unidentified anomalous phenomena” but found no evidence of extraterrestrial life in its studies.

Issues

  • Public Perception vs. Scientific Evidence: Despite numerous studies and reports denying extraterrestrial evidence, public fascination and conspiracy theories persist.
  • National Security Concerns: Lawmakers consider UFO sightings a national security issue, necessitating better data collection and destigmatization of reporting unusual phenomena.
  • Credibility of Claims: The legitimacy of claims made by former military personnel and the presentation of dubious evidence like the supposed mummies in Mexico raises questions.

Significance

  • Cultural Impact: UFOs have a significant cultural impact, inspiring movies, books, and discussions about the possibility of extraterrestrial life.
  • Scientific Inquiry: The continuous investigation into UFO sightings reflects humanity’s curiosity and the desire to understand the unknown.
  • Policy and Governance: Government involvement and transparency in investigating UFO sightings are crucial for maintaining public trust and addressing potential national security issues.

7. Hurricane Beryl kills seven as it churns towards Jamaica

Context: Hurricane Beryl, a powerful Category 4 storm, posed imminent threats to Jamaica as it approached with deadly winds and storm surge, causing significant destruction and claiming lives.

Overview of Hurricane Beryl

  • Category and Strength: Classified as a Category 4 hurricane, Hurricane Beryl is characterized by sustained winds and potential storm surges capable of causing severe damage.
  • Impact and Destruction: The hurricane has already caused widespread destruction and claimed at least seven lives as it approaches Jamaica.

Issues and Challenges

  • Risk to Life and Property: Residents faced life-threatening conditions due to the hurricane’s powerful winds and potential storm surge, necessitating urgent evacuation measures.
  • Infrastructure Damage: The destructive force of Category 4 winds can severely damage infrastructure, including buildings, roads, and utilities, exacerbating recovery challenges.

Significance

  • Humanitarian Crisis: The hurricane poses a significant humanitarian crisis with lives lost and communities displaced, requiring immediate relief efforts.
  • Environmental Impact: Potential ecological damage from flooding and storm surges could affect local ecosystems and habitats.

H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions

Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the National Research Foundation (NRF):
  1. The National Research Foundation (NRF) aims to promote high-quality research and development in the country.
  2. The NRF will provide funding for research across all disciplines, including sciences, humanities, and social sciences.
  3. The NRF is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Science and Technology.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 1 and 3 only
  4. 1, 2, and 3
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: a

Explanation:

  • Statement 1 is correct. The National Research Foundation (NRF) aims to promote high-quality research and development in various fields.
  • Statement 2 is correct. The NRF will provide funding for research across a wide range of disciplines, including sciences, humanities, and social sciences.
  • Statement 3 is incorrect. The NRF is an autonomous body but it is not under the Ministry of Science and Technology; it functions under the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education.
Q2. Consider the following statements regarding NATO (North Atlantic Treaty 
Organization):
  1. NATO was founded in 1949 with the signing of the Washington Treaty.
  2. NATO’s primary objective is to ensure the freedom and security of its members through political and military means.
  3. The organization operates on the principle of collective defense, enshrined in Article 5 of the NATO Treaty, which has been invoked only once in its history.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 1 and 3 only
  4. 1, 2, and 3
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: d

Explanation:

  • Statement 1 is correct. NATO was founded in 1949 with the signing of the Washington Treaty.
  • Statement 2 is correct. NATO’s primary objective is to ensure the freedom and security of its members through political and military means.
  • Statement 3 is correct. The organization operates on the principle of collective defense, enshrined in Article 5 of the NATO Treaty, which has been invoked only once, in response to the September 11 attacks in the United States.
Q3. Consider the following statements regarding the Smart Cities Mission:
  1. The Smart Cities Mission aims to promote core infrastructure and provide a decent quality of life to its citizens.
  2. The Smart Cities Mission is implemented by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
  3. The Smart Cities Mission is a central sector scheme.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 1 and 3 only
  4. 1, 2, and 3
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: a

Explanation:

  • Statement 1 is correct. The Smart Cities Mission aims to promote core infrastructure, provide a decent quality of life to its citizens, ensure a clean and sustainable environment, and apply ‘Smart’ Solutions.
  • Statement 2 is correct. The Smart Cities Mission is implemented by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
  • Statement 3 is incorrect. The Smart Cities Mission is not a central sector scheme but a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, which involves financial support from the central government but is implemented by the states and union territories.

Q4. Consider the following statements regarding planetary defense mechanisms:

  1. The primary objective of planetary defense mechanisms is to detect and mitigate potential asteroid impacts on Earth.
  2. The Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) is a mission by NASA aimed at testing technologies for planetary defense.
  3. The European Space Agency (ESA) has no involvement in planetary defense initiatives.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 1 and 3 only
  4. 1, 2, and 3
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: a

Explanation:

  • Statement 1 is correct. The primary objective of planetary defense mechanisms is to detect and mitigate potential asteroid impacts on Earth.
  • Statement 2 is correct. The Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) is a mission by NASA aimed at testing technologies for planetary defense by changing the motion of an asteroid in space.
  • Statement 3 is incorrect. The European Space Agency (ESA) is involved in planetary defense initiatives, including missions like the Hera mission, which is designed to complement NASA’s DART mission by studying the impact results.
Q5. Consider the following statements regarding the UNESCO World Heritage Committee:
  1. The UNESCO World Heritage Committee is responsible for the implementation of the World Heritage Convention.
  2. The Committee determines the use of the World Heritage Fund and allocates financial assistance upon requests from States Parties.
  3. The Committee is composed of 21 members elected by the General Assembly of States Parties for a term of six years.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 1 and 3 only
  4. 1, 2, and 3
CHECK ANSWERS:-

Answer: a

Explanation:

  • Statement 1 is correct. The UNESCO World Heritage Committee is indeed responsible for the implementation of the World Heritage Convention.
  • Statement 2 is correct. The Committee determines the use of the World Heritage Fund and allocates financial assistance upon requests from States Parties.
  • Statement 3 is incorrect. The Committee is composed of 21 members elected by the General Assembly of States Parties for a term of four years, not six years.

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