14 June 2024 CNA
Download PDF Here
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 1. U.S., Europe will lock up Russian assets until it pays for Ukraine war C. GS 3 Related SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 1. A comprehensive immunisation schedule for women is ready 2. Singular focus D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials EDUCATION 1. The NEET sheeters INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 1. China’s ‘grey-zone’ warfare tactics against Taiwan F. Prelims Facts 1. Vaishnaw directs Railways to prevent unauthorised travel 2. EU court fines Hungary €200 mn for not following asylum laws 3. Court stays release of Shaadi ke Director, Karan aur Johar G. Tidbits H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
B. GS 2 Related
Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. U.S., Europe will lock up Russian assets until it pays for Ukraine war
Syllabus: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s Interests
Mains: USA-Europe-Ukraine relations
Context: The United States and European countries have decided to freeze sanctioned Russian assets until Russia pays reparations for its invasion of Ukraine. This decision was highlighted during the Group of Seven (G-7) summit, where significant financial and security agreements were announced to support Ukraine.
Agreement Details
- Frozen Assets: Over $260 billion in Russian assets have been frozen, primarily held in Europe.
- Financial Package: A $50 billion loan package for Ukraine has been secured, with initial disbursements beginning this year.
- Income Utilization: Interest and income from the frozen assets will be leveraged to support the loan.
Security Agreement
- Bilateral Agreement: President Joe Biden signed a 10-year security agreement with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
- Commitment: This pact underscores a long-term commitment from the U.S. to support Ukraine’s defence and stability.
Issues
- Political Will: There is currently insufficient political will among the allies to confiscate Russian assets outright.
- Legal and Financial Concerns: Confiscation of assets poses significant legal and financial stability challenges.
- Congressional Delays: Previous delays in U.S. aid approval have allowed Russia to gain ground on the battlefield.
Significance
- U.S. Commitment: The agreement represents a substantial and ongoing commitment by the U.S. to Ukraine’s defence.
- Financial Support: The financial package provides critical support for Ukraine’s economic stability and military resilience.
- Global Message: Freezing and potentially confiscating Russian assets sends a strong message about international opposition to aggression and the rule of law.
Solutions
- Legal Framework: Developing a robust legal framework to facilitate the confiscation of Russian assets while addressing financial stability concerns.
- Political Consensus: Building political consensus among G-7 and other allied nations to support more decisive actions against Russia.
- Continuous Support: Ensuring consistent and timely financial and military support to Ukraine to maintain its defence capabilities.
Nut Graf: The U.S. and European agreement to lock up Russian assets until reparations are made is a significant step in supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression. The $50 billion loan package and the 10-year security agreement reflect a long-term commitment to Ukraine’s stability and defence. However, challenges remain in securing political will and addressing legal and financial concerns.
C. GS 3 Related
Category: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
1. A comprehensive immunisation schedule for women is ready
Syllabus: GS-3, Developments in Science and Technology, Applications of scientific developments in everyday life
Prelims: Immunisation
Mains: Significance of immunisation for women
Context: The Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI) has introduced a comprehensive immunisation schedule for women, detailing essential vaccines and their recommended frequencies. The initiative was unveiled at an event in Mumbai, aiming to enhance preventive healthcare for women.
Importance of Immunisation for Women
- Health Disparity: Women spend 25% more time in poor health compared to men.
- Vaccine-Preventable Diseases: Immunisation can significantly reduce the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases among women, improving their quality of life.
- Economic Impact: Narrowing the health gap for women could allow 3.9 billion women to lead healthier lives, contributing to economic growth, as highlighted in the report by the World Economic Forum and McKinsey.
Preventive Health Care Initiative
- Milestone Achievement: FOGSI President emphasized the schedule as a significant milestone in women’s preventive healthcare.
- Awareness and Action: The schedule provides a clear roadmap for women and doctors, increasing awareness and proactive health measures.
Adult Vaccination
- Coverage Gaps: Adult vaccine coverage in India is currently minimal, and needs urgent attention and change.
- Proactive Measures: The importance of adult vaccination in saving lives and improving health outcomes was stressed upon.
Societal Attitudes
- Health Prioritization: Women often downplay their health concerns.
- Consultation and Action: Encourage women to consult gynaecologists and learn about necessary vaccines, emphasizing the importance of taking control of their health.
Post-Childbirth Vulnerability
- Increased Infection Risk: Post-childbirth, women experience changes in immune and hormonal systems, increasing their risk of infections such as HPV.
- Targeted Vaccinations: The schedule outlines essential vaccinations for new mothers to safeguard their health during this vulnerable period.
Collaboration and Awareness
- FOGSI and MSD Pharma: The collaboration aims to raise awareness and prevent vaccine-preventable diseases across India.
- Educational Resources: FOGSI initiatives, such as the Handbook on Prevention & Management of Cervical Cancer and FOGSI FOCUS PLUS on Adult Women Vaccination, aim to improve vaccination rates by educating gynaecologists.
Issues
- Awareness Gaps: Limited awareness among women and healthcare providers about the importance of adult vaccination.
- Cultural Attitudes: The tendency of women to neglect their health concerns in favour of familial responsibilities.
- Vaccine Accessibility: Ensuring vaccines are accessible and affordable for all women across different regions.
Significance
- Health Improvement: Enhanced immunisation can lead to better health outcomes for women, reducing the prevalence of vaccine-preventable diseases.
- Economic Benefits: Improved women’s health contributes to economic growth and productivity.
- Public Health Impact: Widespread immunisation can significantly reduce healthcare costs and burden on the healthcare system.
Solutions
- Educational Campaigns: Implement widespread educational campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of adult vaccination among women and healthcare providers.
- Policy Support: Government policies to support the accessibility and affordability of vaccines for women.
- Healthcare Provider Training: Continuous training for healthcare providers to improve their knowledge and ability to counsel women on vaccinations.
Nut Graf: The comprehensive immunisation schedule by FOGSI represents a pivotal step in advancing women’s health in India. By addressing the gaps in awareness, accessibility, and cultural attitudes towards adult vaccination, this initiative has the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for women and contribute to broader public health and economic benefits. Continued collaboration, education, and policy support are essential to ensure the success of this initiative.
Syllabus: GS-3, Developments in Science and Technology, Applications of scientific developments in everyday life
Mains: Challenges in the development of science and technology in India
Context: The complexity and breadth of modern scientific endeavours necessitate focused and specialized administration.
Challenges Across Departments
- Department of Space (DoS): Integrating private sector players, managing human spaceflight missions, and developing new launch vehicles.
- Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES): Exploring seabed mineral resources, climate adaptation, and mitigation.
- Ministry of Science and Technology (MST): Overseeing cutting-edge research in AI, quantum computing, multi-omics, and energy storage.
- Department of Atomic Energy (DAE): Advancing nuclear power with plans to commission new facilities annually.
Persistent Issues
- Research Funding: Delays in fellowship and grant disbursals.
- Interdisciplinary Research: Facilities are localized and hinder collaboration.
- Regulatory Challenges: Inconsistent regulations affecting research.
- Intellectual Property Rights: Weak protection mechanisms.
- Translational Research: Limited to specific sectors.
- R&D Expenditure: Declining gross domestic expenditure on research and development as a fraction of GDP since 2008-09.
Significance
- Specialized Administration: The vast and diverse nature of scientific fields necessitates dedicated leadership to effectively manage and promote growth.
- Economic Growth: Properly managed science and technology sectors can significantly contribute to national development and global competitiveness.
- Innovation and Progress: Focused leadership can address regulatory, funding, and collaborative challenges, fostering innovation.
Need for Dedicated Ministers:
- India requires separate ministers, ideally of Cabinet rank, for each major research body.
- This separation is essential to:
- Address long-standing issues.
- Meet the specific needs of each body.
- Solve problems effectively during coalition government rule.
Solutions
- Capacity Building: Strengthening the infrastructure and regulatory framework to better absorb and utilize increased funding.
- Enhanced Collaboration: Creating and supporting facilities that promote interdisciplinary research and international collaboration.
- Improved IP Protection: Strengthening intellectual property rights to protect and encourage innovation.
- Stable Funding: Ensuring consistent and timely disbursal of research grants and fellowships.
Nut Graf: The administration of India’s scientific endeavours requires a more specialized and focused approach. Appointing separate ministers for each major research body could address long-standing issues and promote significant advancements in various scientific fields. This structural change is essential for leveraging the full potential of India’s scientific capabilities and ensuring sustained progress and innovation.
D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
Category: EDUCATION
Syllabus: GS-2, Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education
Mains: Irregularity in Medical Entrance Test
Introduction:
- Protests erupted across India due to unfair mark distribution in the NEET exam, affecting students’ chances of getting into government medical colleges.
- Over 2.3 million students appeared for NEET, with 67 achieving full marks, leading to confusion and unexpected rank changes for many.
Controversial Grace Marks and Legal Action:
- The National Testing Agency (NTA) revealed that “grace marks” were given to 1,563 candidates due to exam delays and a textbook error, prompting demands for a re-exam.
- Public interest litigations (PILs) were filed in the Supreme Court, which ordered the cancellation of compensatory marks and an option for affected students to retake the exam.
- India has limited government medical college seats, making fair ranking crucial for affordable education.
Protests and Public Outcry:
- Protests spread from Banaras Hindu University to Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, uniting students and parents in demanding a fair re-exam.
- Students from various universities and political affiliations joined the protests, highlighting the widespread discontent with the NTA’s handling of the exam.
- Parents also joined the protest and demanded transparency in the process.
Allegations of Lack of Transparency and Cheating:
- The number of candidates achieving full marks raised suspicions, with calls for a detailed analysis of top candidates’ exam centres.
- NTA maintained that the exams were transparent, but legal challenges and demands for clarity continued.
- Investigations revealed cases of impersonation and potential exam leaks, leading to arrests and further scrutiny of the NTA’s processes.
The Way Forward:
- The Supreme Court directed NTA to respond to allegations of question paper leaks within two weeks.
- Ongoing protests and legal actions reflect the students’ loss of trust in the system, with many demanding a re-exam and a thorough investigation to ensure fairness in future exams.
Nut Graf: Protests erupted nationwide as NEET students and parents contested inflated ranks due to grace marks and alleged exam irregularities, prompting Supreme Court intervention for transparency and fairness in India’s highly competitive medical entrance exam system.
Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. China’s ‘grey-zone’ warfare tactics against Taiwan
Syllabus: GS-2, Effect of Policies and Politics of Developed and Developing Countries on India’s Interests
Mains: China’s psychological warfare in the neighbourhood
Introduction:
- Context: Since the new Taiwanese president Lai Ching-te took office, China has responded aggressively to his “pro-independence” and “secessionist” statements.
- China’s Strategy: China is employing ‘grey-zone’ warfare tactics to sustain pressure on Taiwan.
Military Measures:
- Preparedness for Invasion: China’s PLA Eastern Theater Command conducts training drills demonstrating the ability to fight and win a war over Taiwan.
- Simulated Audiovisuals: On May 24, the People’s Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command (PLA ETC) released a 3D animation video depicting a missile invasion scenario targeting Taipei and Kaohsiung.
- Daily Sorties: Since 2020, the Taiwanese Ministry of National Defence has reported daily sorties by PLA fighter jets, UAVs, strategic fighters, and early warning aircraft.
- Intelligence Gathering: UAVs conduct intelligence work around Taiwan, causing wear-out within Taiwanese forces without direct combat.
Ideological Warfare:
- Narrative Building: Beijing promotes ideological narratives within Taiwan to influence its citizens.
- Propaganda Example: On May 25, a Chinese drone dropped cardboard boxes with fliers on Kinmen Island, proclaiming, “Both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one China.”
- Cognitive Warfare: The Kinmen Defence Command identified this as a tactic to initiate public discussions and attract attention to the Chinese cause.
Political and Economic Tactics:
- Carrots and Sticks Approach: Beijing uses coercive measures against the DPP while engaging favourably with the KMT, Taiwan’s opposition party.
- KMT Engagement: The KMT continues to engage with the Chinese Communist Party, leading to accusations of “collusion” from the DPP.
- Economic Measures: China suspended preferential tax rates for 134 chemical imports from Taiwan, retaliating against Mr. Lai’s “separatist” sentiments and Taiwan’s restrictions on over 2,000 Chinese goods.
Nut Graf: China employs ‘grey-zone’ warfare tactics, including military drills, ideological propaganda, and coercive economic measures, to sustain pressure on Taiwan and challenge the new Taiwanese president Lai Ching-te’s pro-independence stance, complicating his tenure amid ongoing cross-strait tensions.
F. Prelims Facts
1. Vaishnaw directs Railways to prevent unauthorised travel
Context: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has directed railway officials to implement strict measures against unauthorized passengers travelling in reserved coaches. This directive aims to address the increasing number of complaints and ensure that reserved compartments are exclusively used by passengers with confirmed tickets.
Ministerial Concerns
- Unauthorised Travel: Growing reports of unreserved passengers occupying reserved coaches have raised concerns.
- Complaints Surge: Complaints have significantly increased, particularly through the ‘RailMadad’ application.
Directive to Zonal Railways
- Video Conference: The Railway Minister held a video conference with the General Managers of all Zonal Railways to address the issue.
- Special Drives: Zonal Railways were instructed to conduct special intensive drives involving the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police personnel.
- Targeted Trains: Focus on trains with high numbers of complaints, with Train No. 16127 Chennai Egmore-Guruvayur Express topping the list.
Immediate Actions
- Southern Railway Initiatives: Following the directive, Southern Railway launched drives against unauthorized travellers, especially in trains with frequent complaints.
- Increased Vigilance: Deployment of additional ticket-checking staff and RPF personnel on all trains.
- Penalties and De-boarding: Unauthorized travellers to face penalties and be deboarded at the next station.
- Announcements and Warnings: Advisories at originating stations and en route to inform passengers with inappropriate tickets not to board reserved coaches.
Issues
- Overcrowding in Reserved Coaches: Unauthorized passengers create inconvenience and safety concerns for those with reserved tickets.
- Enforcement Challenges: Ensuring compliance and effectively managing unauthorized travel requires robust measures and continuous monitoring.
- Festive Rush: Festivals and holidays exacerbate the problem with sudden increases in passenger volume.
Significance
- Passenger Comfort and Safety: Ensuring that reserved coaches are used appropriately improves passenger comfort and safety.
- System Integrity: Strict enforcement of reservation rules upholds the integrity and reliability of the railway reservation system.
- Public Confidence: Addressing unauthorized travel helps maintain public confidence in railway services.
2. EU court fines Hungary €200 mn for not following asylum laws
Context: The European Union’s top court has fined Hungary €200 million and imposed a daily penalty of €1 million for failing to adhere to the EU’s asylum laws and for the illegal deportation of migrants. This decision has been met with strong opposition from Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who described it as “outrageous and unacceptable.”
Background
- EU Asylum Laws: The European Union has established comprehensive asylum laws aimed at ensuring the humane and fair treatment of migrants and asylum seekers across member states.
- Hungary’s Non-compliance: Hungary has been criticized for its stringent policies on migration, including the illegal deportation of migrants and refusal to comply with EU regulations.
Court’s Decision
- Fines and Penalties: The EU court has imposed a significant fine of €200 million on Hungary for its non-compliance. Additionally, Hungary faces a daily penalty of €1 million until it aligns its practices with EU laws.
- Legal Basis: The court’s decision is based on Hungary’s failure to adhere to the EU’s common asylum policy, which mandates member states to provide adequate protection and processing for asylum seekers.
Hungarian Response
- Prime Minister’s Reaction: Viktor Orban has condemned the court’s ruling as “outrageous and unacceptable,” indicating a potential conflict between Hungary and the EU regarding migration policies.
Issues
Legal and Humanitarian Concerns
- Violation of EU Laws: Hungary’s actions undermine the collective legal framework of the EU, which seeks to ensure uniform asylum policies.
- Human Rights: The illegal deportation of migrants raises significant human rights concerns, as it potentially exposes individuals to inhumane conditions and persecution.
Political Tensions
- Hungary-EU Relations: The fine exacerbates existing tensions between Hungary and the EU, highlighting differing views on migration and sovereignty.
- Internal Politics: Within Hungary, the government’s stance on migration is a polarizing issue, affecting domestic political dynamics.
Significance
Upholding EU Principles
- Rule of Law: The court’s decision reinforces the importance of the rule of law and adherence to collective agreements among EU member states.
- Human Rights Protection: It underscores the EU’s commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of migrants and asylum seekers.
Financial Impact
- Economic Burden: The substantial fines and daily penalties place a financial burden on Hungary, potentially affecting its economy and public finances.
3. Court stays release of Shaadi ke Director, Karan aur Johar
Context: The Bombay High Court has stayed the release of the Hindi film “Shaadi ke Director, Karan aur Johar,” scheduled for release on 21 June. This decision came after filmmaker Karan Johar filed a lawsuit against the producers, alleging unauthorized use of his name.
Background
- Plaintiff: Filmmaker Karan Johar filed a suit against producer IndiaPride Advisory, writer Sanjay Singh, and director Bablu Singh.
- Complaint: Johar objected to the use of his name in the movie title without his authorization, claiming it violated his fundamental rights.
Court’s Decision
- Stay Order: The Bombay High Court issued a stay on the film’s release and restrained the makers from using any promotional material related to the film.
- Prima Facie Case: The court found a prima facie case indicating that the filmmakers had used Johar’s name without permission.
Legal Basis
- Right to Name and Reputation: The unauthorized use of Johar’s name was deemed a violation of his right to protect his name and reputation.
- Fundamental Rights Violation: The court highlighted the infringement of an individual’s fundamental rights through unauthorized commercial use of their identity.
Issues
Unauthorized Use of Name
- Intellectual Property: The case raises concerns about the misuse of names and identities in media and entertainment, potentially violating intellectual property rights.
- Consent and Authorization: Emphasizes the need for obtaining explicit consent before using someone’s name or likeness in commercial ventures.
Legal and Ethical Concerns
- Defamation and Misrepresentation: Potential harm to reputation through unauthorized and potentially misleading use of a well-known personality’s name.
- Right to Privacy: The misuse of Johar’s name also touches upon issues of privacy and personal rights.
Significance
Legal Precedent
- Protection of Rights: The court’s decision underscores the importance of protecting individuals’ rights against unauthorized commercial exploitation.
- Judicial Intervention: Highlights the judiciary’s role in addressing and rectifying unauthorized use of personal identities in media.
Media and Entertainment Industry
- Ethical Standards: Reinforces the need for ethical standards and legal compliance in the media and entertainment industry.
- Impact on Filmmakers: Sends a clear message to filmmakers and producers about the consequences of violating intellectual property and personal rights.
G. Tidbits
Nothing here for today!!!
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1. Consider the following factors contributing to China’s 'grey-zone' warfare tactics against Taiwan:
- Psychological operations
- Cyber warfare
- Maritime militia operations
Which of the above factors is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2, and 3
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation: China employs psychological operations, cyber warfare, and maritime militia operations as part of its ‘grey-zone’ warfare tactics against Taiwan.
Q2. With reference to the recent EU court's decision on Hungary, consider the following statements:
- Hungary was fined for not following asylum laws.
- Hungary has been imposed a daily penalty by the EU court.
- The total fine amounts to 200 billion euros.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2, and 3
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Explanation: Hungary was fined 200 million euros for not following asylum laws, with a daily penalty imposed by the EU court for ongoing violations.
Q3. Which of the following statements is/are NOT a function of the National Testing Agency (NTA)?
- Conducting NEET and JEE exams
- Setting up and managing exam centres
- Declaring exam results and providing answer keys
- Regulating universities and educational institutions
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation: The NTA is responsible for conducting entrance exams and related tasks. University regulation is a separate function.
Q4. The exploration and management of seabed mineral resources come with various challenges. What is NOT likely to be a major challenge?
- Developing environment-friendly technologies for deep-sea mining
- Ensuring equitable access to seabed resources for all nations
- Addressing legal ambiguities in international maritime law
- Maintaining the viability of traditional fishing practices in international waters
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation: Deep-sea mining and traditional fishing are not geographically linked. The other options (a, b, and c) are more relevant challenges to seabed mineral exploration.
Q5. Why are women considered a critical target group for immunization programs?
- Because women are more susceptible to certain infectious diseases
- To prevent the transmission of diseases from mothers to children
- To ensure the overall health and well-being of women during their lifetime
- All of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation: All these reasons (a, b, and c) contribute to the importance of women’s immunization.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- In today’s world, grey zone warfare tactics will cause more damage in comparison to direct conflicts. Explain. (10 marks, 150 words) [GS-3, Security & Defence]
- Explain the measures taken by Western countries directed towards Russia after its attack on Ukraine. Are these measures sufficient to stop the war? Discuss. (15 marks, 250 words) [GS-2, International Relations]
Read previous CNA articles here.
Comments