11 Jul 2024: UPSC Exam Comprehensive News Analysis

11 July 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

A. GS 1 Related
GEOGRAPHY
1. Why is India drilling a 6-km deep hole in Maharashtra?
B. GS 2 Related
SOCIAL JUSTICE
1. Divorced Muslim women entitled to maintenance under secular statute: SC
2. SC judge says men should share funds to empower their homemaker wives
C. GS 3 Related
ECONOMY
1. MSMEs need outlays for technology upgrades, to aid in green transition
D. GS 4 Related
E. Editorials
SOCIETY
1. India’s demographic journey of hits and misses
2. A pathway for the most populous nation
F. Prelims Facts
G. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
H. UPSC Mains Practice Questions

A. GS 1 Related

Category: GEOGRAPHY

1. Why is India drilling a 6-km deep hole in Maharashtra?

Syllabus: Important Geophysical Phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclones, etc., geographical features and their location, changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.

Prelims: Earthquakes

Mains: What are Reservoir-triggered earthquakes?

Context​: India has embarked on a significant scientific endeavour by drilling a 6-km deep hole in the Koyna-Warna region of Maharashtra. This initiative, spearheaded by the Borehole Geophysics Research Laboratory (BGRL) in Karad, aims to advance our understanding of reservoir-triggered earthquakes and various geological phenomena.

Scientific Deep Drilling:

• Definition: Scientific deep drilling involves strategically digging boreholes to study the deeper parts of the Earth’s crust. It provides insights into earthquakes, the Earth’s history, rock types, energy resources, and climate change patterns.
• Purpose in Koyna-Warna Region: The primary objective is to understand reservoir-triggered earthquakes, particularly those occurring due to the impoundment of the Shivaji Sagar Lake (Koyna Dam) since 1962.

Benefits:

• Enhanced Earthquake Understanding: By drilling deep into the Earth’s crust, scientists can conduct in situ experiments and observations, providing a better understanding of fault lines and seismic behaviour.
• Geological Insights: The borehole allows for direct observation and measurement of the Earth’s crust composition, structure, and processes, which can validate surface-based models.
• Technological Advancements: The project fosters technological innovation in drilling, data analysis, and sensor development, especially in seismology.

Challenges:

• Technical Complexity: Deep drilling involves navigating high temperatures, darkness, and high-pressure environments, which complicate long-term operations.
• Resource Intensive: The process is labour and capital-intensive, requiring highly skilled technical personnel for continuous engagement over extended periods.
• Operational Risks: There are risks of equipment failure, such as drill rods and sensors getting stuck, especially when drilling through fractured rocks and fault zones.

Drilling Technique:

• Hybrid Strategy: The Koyna borehole employs a hybrid technique combining mud rotary drilling and air hammering.
• Mud Rotary Drilling: Uses a rotating drilling rod with a diamond-embedded bit, cooled by drilling mud to prevent overheating.
• Air Hammering: Uses highly compressed air to deepen the borehole and flush out cuttings.
• Core Sampling: Mud rotary drilling is preferred for capturing long, intact core samples, while air hammering collects rock chips for property studies.

Scientific Findings:

• Geological Discoveries: The pilot borehole revealed 1.2 km thick Deccan trap lava flows and ancient granitic basement rocks.
• Stress Regimes: Downhole measurements provided insights into the physical and mechanical properties of rocks, stress regimes, and fracture orientations.
• Water Presence: The discovery of meteoric water at a depth of 3 km indicates deep percolation and circulation.

Future Prospects:

• Deepening the Borehole: Plans to reach a depth of 6 km will require upgrading the drilling rig and managing increased operational complexities.
• Broader Research Applications: The data and samples from the borehole will support various research projects, including studies on rock friction properties, microbial life in extreme environments, and carbon capture.

Issues

• Unpredictability of Earthquakes: Minor earthquakes in plate interiors are difficult to predict and pose risks to densely populated areas.
• Operational Challenges: High-pressure environments and fractured rocks complicate drilling and require continuous troubleshooting.

Significance

• Societal Impact: Understanding earthquakes and geological processes helps mitigate risks associated with geohazards and informs policies for disaster preparedness.
• Scientific Advancement: The project enhances scientific knowledge and technological capabilities, positioning India as a leader in deep-drilling research.

Solutions

• Technological Innovations: Developing advanced drilling equipment and data acquisition systems to handle extreme conditions.
• Skilled Workforce: Training and employing highly skilled technical personnel for continuous, on-site engagement.
• Collaborative Research: Engaging national and international research groups to maximize the utilization of data and samples.

Nut Graf: India’s deep-drilling project in Maharashtra represents a significant step towards understanding and mitigating earthquake risks. Despite the challenges, the benefits of scientific deep-drilling are vast, contributing to geological knowledge, technological advancement, and societal safety. The project underscores India’s commitment to advancing earth sciences and addressing critical environmental and safety concerns.

Syllabus: Issues related to the development and management of the social sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources

Mains: Issues of divorced Muslim women – entitled to maintenance

Context​: The Supreme Court of India, in a landmark judgment, held that divorced Muslim women are entitled to maintenance under the secular Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). This ruling emphasizes the equal rights of divorced Muslim women to maintenance, aligning with the principles of justice and equality irrespective of personal laws.

Case Background:

• The judgment was delivered while hearing an appeal against a Telangana High Court order.
• The appeal was filed by Mohammad Abdul Samad, who challenged the interim maintenance granted to his divorced wife under Section 125 of the CrPC.
• The Supreme Court upheld the Telangana High Court’s decision, reinforcing that a divorced Muslim woman can seek maintenance under Section 125 of the CrPC.

Key Legal Provisions:

• Section 125 of the CrPC: Provides a mechanism for maintenance for wives, children, and parents irrespective of their religion.
• Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986: Provides for a “reasonable and fair provision of maintenance” during the iddat period.

Issues

• Conflict of Laws: The primary issue was whether the 1986 Act supersedes Section 125 of the CrPC for divorced Muslim women.
• Maintenance Post-Iddat Period: Under the 1986 Act, the obligation to provide maintenance ceases after the iddat period, whereas Section 125 mandates continuous maintenance.
• Maintenance for Children: The 1986 Act limits maintenance for children to two years from birth, while Section 125 covers maintenance until children attain the age of majority.

Significance

• Equality Before Law: This judgment reinforces the constitutional commitment to equality and non-discrimination.
• Empowerment of Women: It ensures that divorced Muslim women are not deprived of their right to maintenance, providing them with financial security and dignity.
• Harmonious Interpretation: The court clarified that both Section 125 of the CrPC and the 1986 Act can coexist, offering choices to divorced Muslim women for seeking maintenance.

Solutions

• Legal Awareness: Efforts should be made to increase awareness among Muslim women about their rights under both the Cr.PC and the 1986 Act.
• Judicial Training: Judges and lawyers should be trained to understand and apply the harmonious interpretation of these laws.
• Policy Reforms: Potential reforms could be considered to streamline maintenance laws, ensuring clarity and uniformity in their application.

Nut Graf: The Supreme Court’s ruling is a significant step towards ensuring justice and equality for divorced Muslim women. By recognizing their right to maintenance under the secular Section 125 of the CrPC, the court has upheld the principles of equality and non-discrimination. This judgment not only provides legal clarity but also strengthens the financial and social security of divorced Muslim women in India.

2. SC judge says men should share funds to empower their homemaker wives

Syllabus: Issues related to the development and management of the social sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources

Mains: Financial issues of homemaker wives

Context​: Justice B.V. Nagarathna of the Supreme Court of India emphasized the need for financial empowerment of homemaker wives through the sharing of financial resources by their husbands. This observation was made in a separate opinion upholding the right of divorced Muslim women to maintenance under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).

Context and Ruling:

• Justice Nagarathna’s observations were made in the context of upholding the right of divorced Muslim women to maintenance under a secular law.
• She stressed that the financial empowerment of homemaker wives, who lack independent income, is crucial for their security and well-being within the family.

Key Observations:

• Financial Empowerment: Justice Nagarathna highlighted that Indian married men should become conscious of the need to financially empower their wives by providing financial resources, especially for their personal needs.
• Recognition of Contributions: She acknowledged those men who provide access to their financial resources for their spouses, either through joint bank accounts or ATM cards, should be recognized for their efforts.
• Distinction Between Women: A clear distinction was made between financially independent women and homemaker wives who lack financial independence and struggle to meet their personal expenses.

Issues

• Financial Dependence: Many homemaker wives in India do not have independent sources of income and are financially dependent on their husbands.
• Lack of Financial Empowerment: The absence of financial empowerment leaves homemaker wives vulnerable and insecure within their families.
• Emotional and Financial Dependency: Homemaker wives are often dependent on their husbands not only financially but also emotionally, which is not always reciprocated.

Significance

• Strengthening Families: Financial empowerment of homemaker wives contributes to stronger family units, which in turn, strengthens society and the nation.
• Recognition of Unpaid Work: Acknowledging and supporting the unpaid work done by homemaker wives is essential for their dignity and well-being.
• Security of Residence: Financial empowerment also impacts the security of residence for homemaker wives, ensuring they have a stable and secure home environment.

Solutions

• Joint Financial Management: Encouraging joint bank accounts and shared financial management between spouses can provide homemaker wives with better financial security.
• Awareness Programs: Increasing awareness among men about the importance of financially empowering their homemaker wives.
• Legal Reforms: Implementing legal measures that ensure financial support for homemaker wives, even in cases of divorce or separation.

Nut Graf: Justice Nagarathna’s observations highlight a significant aspect of marital relationships in India, emphasizing the need for financial empowerment of homemaker wives. By recognizing the financial contributions and needs of homemaker wives, the ruling promotes a more secure and respectful family environment. Ensuring the financial empowerment of homemaker wives is not just a matter of equity but also a step towards building stronger families and a stronger nation.

Syllabus: Economic Development in India

Prelims: MSME

Mains: Challenges to MSME

Context​: Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are the backbone of the Indian economy, contributing significantly to employment generation and exports. Union Minister for MSMEs, Jitan Ram Manjhi, emphasized the need for substantial investments in technology upgrades and green transitions to ensure the sustainable growth of the sector.

Six Pillars for MSME Growth:

• Formalisation and Access to Credit: Ensuring that MSMEs have access to formal financial systems and credit facilities.
• Increased Market Access and E-commerce Adoption: Encouraging MSMEs to leverage digital platforms for broader market reach.
• Higher Productivity through Modern Technology: Promoting the adoption of advanced technologies to enhance productivity.
• Enhanced Skill Levels and Digitalisation: Investing in skill development and digital transformation, particularly in the service sector.
• Support to Khadi, Village, and Coir Industry: Aiming to globalize traditional industries.
• Empowerment of Women and Artisans: Fostering enterprise creation among women and artisans.

Infrastructure Development:

• Sustainable Economic Growth: Prioritizing infrastructure development, especially in industrial clusters, to support the MSME sector and overall economic growth.

Employment Generation:

• Export Growth: With exports growing at a CAGR of 8.5% from FY18 to FY24, the target is to reach $2 trillion by FY30, requiring a supportive ecosystem for exporters and MSMEs.
• NPA Timeline Extension: Proposing to extend the NPA timeline from 90 days to 180 days to provide relief to struggling MSMEs.

Credit and Financial Support:

• Credit Guarantee Scheme: Revamping the Credit Guarantee Scheme for micro and small enterprises in the manufacturing sector.
• Interest Equalisation Scheme: Extending the scheme for five years to support exports, along with restoring subvention rates for MSMEs.
• Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme: Reintroducing the scheme for MSME exporters for another two years.
• Payment Timeline Extension: Extending the timeline for payments to MSME job work to 120 days from the current 45 days.

Policy and Scheme Adjustments:

• PLI Scheme for MSMEs: Lowering the investment limit to ₹25 crore and the turnover limit to ₹70 crore under the PLI scheme for the textile and garment sector.
• RoDTEP and RoSCTL Schemes: Extending these schemes for another five years to support the textile and garment sector.

Green Transition and R&D:

• Climate Change Impact: Providing soft funds for MSMEs to transition to green resources and technologies.
• Research and Development: Increasing the weighted tax deduction under Section 35(2AB) to 300% and extending benefits to LLPs, partnership firms, and proprietary firms to incentivize R&D.

Issues

• Access to Credit: Limited access to formal credit facilities hampers the growth of MSMEs.
• Technological Lag: Many MSMEs lack the necessary technology to compete globally.
• Payment Delays: Short payment timelines create cash flow issues for MSMEs.
• Climate Change Adaptation: MSMEs need support to adapt to climate change and transition to sustainable practices.

Significance

• Economic Growth: Strengthening the MSME sector is crucial for sustainable economic growth and achieving export targets.
• Employment Generation: MSMEs are key to generating employment and boosting economic resilience.
• Technological Advancement: Investing in technology upgrades will enhance productivity and global competitiveness.
• Sustainable Development: Supporting green transitions will ensure the long-term sustainability of MSMEs.

Solutions

• Enhanced Credit Access: Implementing measures to improve access to formal credit for MSMEs.
• Technology Upgradation: Providing financial and technical support for MSMEs to adopt modern technologies.
• Extended Payment Timelines: Adjusting payment timelines to ensure better cash flow management for MSMEs.
• Green Transition Funds: Allocating more funds to support MSMEs in transitioning to green technologies and practices.
• Incentivizing R&D: Increasing tax incentives for R&D to promote innovation within the MSME sector.

Nut Graf: The growth and sustainability of the MSME sector are pivotal for India’s economic progress. By focusing on technology upgrades, enhancing credit access, extending payment timelines, and supporting green transitions, the government can ensure that MSMEs continue to thrive and contribute significantly to the economy. The upcoming budget must address these areas to fuel growth, generate employment, and promote sustainable development within the MSME sector.

Syllabus: GS-1, Population and Associated Issues, Poverty and Developmental issues

Mains: Evaluation of SDG goals

Introduction: India’s Demographic Journey

• World Population Day: Established by the UN in 1989 after a proposal by Dr. K.C. Zachariah.
• 1960s-1970s Predictions: Global population growth at 2% annually, leading to fears of poverty and hunger in India.
• Positive Turnaround: Decline in global fertility rates, improved living conditions, and increased life expectancy.
• India’s Progress: Fertility rates have fallen since the 1970s, currently below replacement level, with significant reductions in maternal and child mortality.

Population Dynamics:

• Key Components: Fertility, mortality, and migration shape India’s demographic landscape.
• Fertility Rate: Decreased from 3.4 (1992) to 2 (2021), below the replacement level of 2.1.
• Mortality Rate: Significant decline with increased life expectancy.
• Ageing Population: 8.6% aged 60+ in 2011, projected to rise to 19.5% by 2050.
• Implications: Smaller family norms, potential demographic dividend, need for geriatric care and social security.

SDG Journey:

• Poverty Eradication: Population below the poverty line reduced from 48% (1990) to 10% (2019). MGNREGA and Janani Suraksha Yojana were critical.
• Food Security: The Green Revolution averted a food crisis; hunger reduced from 18.3% (2001) to 16.6% (2021). Malnutrition remains a challenge.
• Health Improvements: Steady decline in critical mortality indicators. MMR decreased from 384.4 (2000) to 102.7 (2020), IMR from 66.7 (2000) to 25.5 (2021).

Challenges and Focus Areas:

• Income Inequality: Top 10% holds 77% of national wealth, skewing development.
• Nutrition Crisis: India ranks 111 out of 125 in the Global Hunger Index (2023).
• Health Burden: Double burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
• Gender Equality: Critical for solving many issues and propelling SDG progress.

Path to Sustainable Development:

• Policy Formation: Acknowledge changing population dynamics.
• Job Creation: Harness demographic dividend by creating employment opportunities.
• Health and Nutrition: Increase budgetary allocations and strengthen programs.
• Gender Equality: Empower vulnerable women for holistic progress.
• Collaboration and Will: Multi-sectoral collaboration and strong political will are essential for meeting SDG targets by 2030.

Nut Graf: India’s demographic journey reflects significant progress in fertility reduction, improved health outcomes, and poverty alleviation. However, challenges like income inequality, malnutrition, and gender inequality remain. Addressing these is crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

2. A pathway for the most populous nation

Syllabus: GS-1, Population and Associated Issues, Urbanization

Mains: India’s Demographic Challenges

Introduction: Global Population Trends

• The global population is projected to reach 8.5 billion by the end of this decade.
• Asia is expected to be overpopulated, while Europe will be underpopulated.
• Falling fertility levels and rising longevity will result in a higher number of older people.
• Imbalanced population distribution and skewed age structure are significant transformations.

Urbanisation and Its Challenges:

• The population is increasingly centred in urban areas, with two-thirds expected to live in cities by 2030.
• This urban concentration will strain infrastructure and amenities, potentially lowering the quality of life.
• The uneven distribution of children and elderly within households will impact inequality, especially in India.

Women’s Health and Rights:

• The theme for World Population Day focuses on women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights, marking the 30th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development  (ICPD).
• Significant progress has been made in access to modern contraceptives and in reducing maternal deaths.
• Despite progress, 800 women die daily from preventable pregnancy-related causes, primarily in developing countries.
• Lower fertility levels and rising longevity transform household composition, affecting care burdens and inequality.

Migration and Urban Development:

• Migration trends will shape future population distribution, with 60 crore Indians migrating domestically and 2 crore abroad annually.
• The emergence of new cities with adequate infrastructure is crucial to alleviate pressure on mega cities.
• Cities drive the global economy, with 600 urban centres generating 60% of the world’s GDP.
• Indian cities rank poorly in global assessments due to environmental and quality-of-life issues.

India’s Population and Workforce:

• India lacks a realistic count of its population, relying on decades-old data for projections.
• Conducting a census is vital for accurate population data to inform policy-making.
• India must prepare its workforce for the global labour market to validate its potential in the 21st century.
• Despite stringent immigration policies, Indian emigration is expected to continue in the near future.

Nut Graf: Global population trends highlight rising urbanisation, challenges in women’s health, and significant migration patterns. For India, addressing urban infrastructure, accurate population data, and workforce readiness are crucial to leveraging its demographic potential and sustaining future development.

Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the AIIMS initiative for Alzheimer's 
diagnosis:

Q2. Consider the following statements regarding the recent Supreme Court ruling 
on Muslim women's maintenance:

Q3.Consider the following statements regarding Fiscal Deficit:

Q4.Consider the following statements regarding the Upper Siang Multipurpose Storage Project:

Q5. Consider the following statements regarding the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in India: