27 June 2024 CNA
Download PDF Here

A. GS 1 Related
B. GS 2 Related
POLITY
1. Ending defections
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. It’s time for India to reclaim its voice on Tibet
2.  India is looking at ‘potential’ institutional reforms: U.S. official
C. GS 3 Related
D. GS 4 Related
E. Editorials
POLITY
1. Opposition’s larger demography, LoP’s big responsibility
ENVIRONMENT
1. Read the rocks to improve India’s geological literacy
F. Prelims Facts
1. SC calls cutting of ‘valuable’ trees in Delhi a ‘brazen act’
2. Prolonged exposure to coal mining causes respiratory, skin diseases in workers: study
3. Radioactive implant for rhino horns to curb poaching
4. South India’s first Leopard safari inaugurated at Bannerghatta Biological Park in Bengaluru
G. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
H. UPSC Mains Practice Questions

Syllabus: Constitution and elections

Prelims: Anti defection law

Mains: Challenges with defections of elected members

Context​: Engineering defections, wherein elected representatives switch parties, undermines the people’s mandate and the democratic process.

• This issue has been particularly prevalent in Indian politics, as seen in Telangana with the defection of MLA M. Sanjay Kumar from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) to the Congress.

Background and Context

• Defections in Telangana: Since its inception in 2014, Telangana has witnessed several instances of political defections.
• Case of K. Chandrashekhar Rao: The first Chief Minister of Telangana, K. Chandrashekhar Rao, managed to induce numerous defections to consolidate his power, increasing his party’s strength from 63 to 90 MLAs out of 119 seats.
• Current Scenario: The recent defection of M. Sanjay Kumar has reduced the strength of the principal Opposition, BRS, from 39 to 33 in the State Assembly.

Legal Framework

• Anti-Defection Law: The 10th Schedule of the Indian Constitution, enacted in 1985 and amended in 2003, was designed to prevent political defections.
• Provision and Loopholes: The law provides an exception if two-thirds of a party’s members defect and merge with another party. Additionally, the Speaker has the sole discretion to decide on disqualifications without a set timeline, often leading to delays and partisan decisions.

Issues and Challenges

• Partisan Role of Speakers: The Speaker’s role in disqualification cases is often influenced by party affiliations, compromising the impartiality required for fostering democratic principles.
• Weakening of Opposition: Defections reduce the strength and effectiveness of the Opposition, undermining its role in providing checks and balances against the ruling party.
• Violation of Democratic Spirit: Defections go against the essence of participatory democracy, where elected representatives are expected to uphold the mandate given by the electorate.

Case Studies

• Jagtial Constituency: The defection of Sanjay Kumar has caused discontent within the Congress, particularly affecting T. Jeevan Reddy, who lost the Jagtial Assembly seat but currently serves as a Congress MLC.
• Revanth Reddy’s Attempt: In 2015, A. Revanth Reddy, then a TDP member, was involved in a bribery scandal aimed at inducing defection to secure votes for the TDP.

Significance

• Impact on Governance: A strong and stable Opposition is crucial for effective governance and preventing unilateral decisions by the ruling party.
• Democratic Health: Ensuring the integrity of the electoral mandate is essential for the health of democracy and maintaining public trust in political institutions.

Solutions

• Amending the Anti-Defection Law: The law needs further amendments to close existing loopholes and ensure timely and impartial decision-making.
• Independent Adjudication: Transferring the power to decide on disqualifications from the Speaker to an independent body like the Election Commission can help ensure fairness.
• Strict Timelines: Imposing strict timelines for deciding on defection cases can prevent undue delays and manipulation.

Nut Graf: The experience of the past decade highlights the urgent need for reforming the anti-defection framework to uphold democratic principles and ensure that elected representatives remain accountable to their electorate.

Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

1. It’s time for India to reclaim its voice on Tibet

Syllabus: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s Interests

Mains: India-US-China relations

Context​: Recent events, including a U.S. lawmakers’ visit to Dharamshala, highlight the ongoing Tibetan issue and the need for India to reassert its stance.

• The visit followed the passage of the ‘Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act’ in the U.S. Congress.

Context and Background

• U.S. Involvement: U.S. lawmakers visited Dharamshala after passing legislation supporting Tibet, marking a significant move in U.S.-China relations.
• Indian Context: India has provided refuge to the Dalai Lama and Tibetan refugees since 1959, symbolizing a strong but nuanced stance on the Tibetan issue.

Current Dynamics

• New Delhi’s Diplomacy: India hosted the U.S. delegation, indicating a more considered diplomatic stance.
• Tensions with China: The visit and ensuing rhetoric come amid ongoing India-China tensions, particularly post the 2020 Galwan clash.

Issues and Challenges

• Perception of Weakness: Allowing U.S. politicians to lead the discourse on Tibet in India could be perceived as India ceding its strategic narrative.
• Calibrated Foreign Policy: India’s longstanding position has been to avoid public criticism of China on Tibet while supporting Tibetan refugees quietly.
• Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity: India’s own sensitivities around these issues make public stances on Tibet complex.

Historical Position

• Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR): India has recognized TAR as part of China since 1954 but stopped emphasizing the ‘One China’ policy post-2010 due to China’s actions in Arunachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.
• Non-Recognition of Exile Government: India does not officially recognize the Tibetan Government in Exile, maintaining a cautious approach.

Significance

• Strategic Autonomy: Reclaiming its voice on Tibet is crucial for India to maintain its strategic autonomy and influence in the region.
• Role in Tibetan Issue: India’s historical and ongoing role as a host to the Dalai Lama and Tibetan refugees positions it as a key player in the Tibetan issue.

Solutions

• Articulate India’s Stance: Indian officials should publicly articulate India’s concerns and positions on Tibet rather than allowing foreign entities to dominate the discourse.
• Policy Review: India should review its Tibet policy to ensure it aligns with its broader strategic objectives and current geopolitical realities.
• Independent Diplomacy: India should independently engage with both China and the global community on the Tibetan issue, asserting its unique position and interests.

Nut Graf: To maintain its strategic relevance and support for the Tibetan cause, India must proactively reclaim its narrative on Tibet.

2. India is looking at ‘potential’ institutional reforms: U.S. official

Syllabus: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s Interests

Mains: India-US relations

Context​: The U.S. has called for accountability from the Indian government regarding the Pannun issue and potential assassination attempts.

• U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt M. Campbell highlighted ongoing institutional reforms and deepening technological ties between India and the U.S.

Context and Background

• Pannun Issue: The U.S. has consistently requested updates from India on the committee investigating allegations of assassination attempts against Khalistani separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
• Committee Formation: India formed a high-level inquiry committee on November 18 to investigate these allegations.

Current Developments

• U.S. Stance: The U.S. has engaged in constructive dialogue with India, seeking accountability and transparency regarding the Pannun issue.
• Institutional Reforms: India is considering potential institutional reforms in response to these allegations and ongoing discussions with the U.S.

Issues and Challenges

• Assassination Allegations: The case involves an alleged plot against Khalistani separatists, leading to the extradition of Indian national Nikhil Gupta, who is accused of hiring a hitman on behalf of a senior Indian security official.
• International Concerns: The involvement of international agencies like the FBI and DEA underscores the global dimension of the issue.

India-U.S. Technological Cooperation

• iCET Dialogue: The second India-U.S. initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) dialogue aims to enhance technological ties between the two nations.
• Areas of Cooperation: Both countries seek to develop deeper technological relationships, acknowledging mutual concerns, particularly regarding India’s ties with Russia.

India-Russia Relations

• U.S. Perspective: The U.S. has expressed concerns over India’s military and technological ties with Russia but maintains trust and confidence in India.
• Bilateral Dialogue: India and the U.S. engage in full and frank discussions, addressing mutual relationships and aligning on various strategic interests.

Significance

• Accountability and Reforms: Addressing the Pannun issue and potential institutional reforms reflect India’s commitment to transparency and adherence to international norms.
• Strengthening Ties: Deepening technological cooperation with the U.S. signifies India’s strategic pivot towards enhancing its global partnerships.

Solutions

• Enhanced Communication: Regular updates and transparent communication between India and the U.S. regarding the investigation and institutional reforms are crucial.
• Strategic Reforms: India should implement necessary institutional reforms to address international concerns and strengthen its domestic governance structures.
• Balanced Diplomacy: Maintaining a balanced diplomatic approach, especially concerning ties with Russia, while fostering stronger U.S. relations, is essential for India’s strategic autonomy.

Nut Graf: India’s consideration of institutional reforms and deepening technological ties with the U.S. highlight its evolving strategic priorities. As both nations align on critical issues and enhance bilateral cooperation, India’s role as a key U.S. partner in the 21st century is set to grow, supported by broad, bipartisan support for stronger ties.

Category: POLITY

1. Opposition’s larger demography, LoP’s big responsibility

Syllabus: GS-2, Parliament and State Legislatures—Structure, Functioning, Conduct of Business

Mains:  Leader of the Opposition and its Role in Democracy

Context:

• The 2024 general election marked a historic moment with the largest Opposition in Lok Sabha history, securing over 234 seats.
• Discussion on the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) arose due to past regulations requiring a party to have 10% of House strength for recognition.

Evolution of LoP Recognition:

• Previous directions and the Salary and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977, defined LoP based on numerical strength and Speaker’s recognition.
• Changes under the 10th Schedule aimed to make party categorization by the Speaker irrelevant for LoP recognition.

Role and Challenges of the LoP:

• The LoP in the Indian Parliament, akin to the Prime Minister-in-waiting in the Westminster system, leads the largest opposition party.
• Challenges include maintaining unity among diverse opposition parties, despite lacking executive powers.

Impact and Future Outlook:

• With a significantly larger opposition in the 18th Lok Sabha, there is potential for increased influence in parliamentary proceedings.
• The LoP plays a crucial role in debates, interventions, and ensuring accountability of the ruling government.

Nut Graf: The 2024 general election saw India’s largest-ever opposition in Parliament with over 234 seats. This shift sparked renewed debate over the Leader of the Opposition’s role, highlighting challenges and legislative changes impacting parliamentary dynamics

Category: ENVIRONMENT

1. Read the rocks to improve India’s geological literacy

Syllabus: GS-3, Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation

Mains: Need to Conserve Geological Diversity

Introduction: India’s Geological Diversity and Heritage

• India boasts diverse landscapes shaped over billions of years, offering a rich geological history through rocks, minerals, and fossils.
• These geological features are crucial for understanding India’s non-cultural heritage and its evolutionary past.

Challenges in Geological Conservation:

• Despite international advancements in geo-conservation, India lags with minimal focus on preserving geological sites.
• Activities like stone mining and developmental projects often lead to the destruction of fossil-rich areas, undermining geological heritage.

Global Practices and India’s Legislative Gap:

• Many countries have established geo-parks and enacted legislation for geo-heritage conservation.
• In contrast, India lacks specific laws or policies dedicated to geo-heritage conservation, unlike its efforts in biodiversity preservation.

Calls for Action and Legislative Initiatives:

• Urgent measures include creating a comprehensive inventory of potential geo-sites, beyond the 34 identified by the Geological Survey of India.
• India should develop a comprehensive geo-conservation framework similar to the Biological Diversity Act to protect its geological heritage.

Nut Graf: India’s rich geological diversity, from ancient meteoritic craters to diverse fossil sites, faces severe threats from development. Despite global initiatives, India lacks dedicated conservation laws, highlighting an urgent need for legislative action to safeguard its geological heritage.

2. Prolonged exposure to coal mining causes respiratory, skin diseases in workers: study

Context: Prolonged exposure to pollutants from coal mining has led to widespread respiratory and skin diseases among mine workers and inhabitants in six coal mining districts in India.

• A survey by the National Foundation for India (NFI) highlights the severe health and economic impacts on these communities.

Survey Overview

• Regions Surveyed: Koriya and Raigarh (Chhattisgarh), Dhanbad and Ramgarh (Jharkhand), and Angul and Jajpur (Odisha).
• Participants: The survey included 1,200 households across these districts.
• Health Issues Reported: Chronic bronchitis, asthma, eczema, dermatitis, and fungal infections.

Health Impacts

• Respiratory Diseases: 65% of participants reported chronic respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and asthma.
• Skin Diseases: Significant occurrences of eczema, dermatitis, and fungal infections.
• Medical Expenses: Households spent between ₹300 to ₹1,000 monthly on medical bills, with annual hospitalisation expenses in Dhanbad averaging ₹28,461.

Vulnerability Factors

• Proximity to Mines: People living closer to mines, particularly in Dhanbad and Ramgarh, exhibited higher rates of lung and skin diseases.
• Economic Strain: Medical expenses add to the financial burden on households already struggling with low and irregular incomes.

Socio-Economic Context

• Dependence on Coal Mining: Districts like Dhanbad and Koriya heavily rely on coal production, leading to lower incomes compared to more industrially diversified regions like Angul.
• Job Losses: The global shift away from coal is expected to result in significant job losses, impacting local economies dependent on coal mining.

Transition to Renewable Energy

• India’s Commitment: India aims to source nearly 500 GW of electricity from renewable energy by 2030.
• Current Energy Mix: Despite the push for renewables, coal remains a significant part of India’s power generation, with about 205 GW of coal-powered thermal plants.
• Renewable Growth: Renewable energy accounted for 71.5% of the new power generation capacity added in the first quarter of this year.

Significance

• Health Crisis: The survey highlights a public health crisis among coal mining communities due to prolonged exposure to coal pollutants.
• Economic Impact: High medical expenses and low incomes exacerbate economic hardships for affected families.
• Energy Transition: The shift towards renewable energy is crucial for reducing health risks and ensuring sustainable economic development.

3. Radioactive implant for rhino horns to curb poaching

Context: South African scientists have initiated a pioneering project to combat rhino poaching by injecting radioactive material into rhino horns.

• The project aims to make horns detectable at border posts, thereby deterring poachers.

Background

• South Africa is home to the majority of the world’s rhinoceroses and is a major hotspot for poaching.
• Rhino horns are highly valued in Asia for their supposed therapeutic effects in traditional medicine.
• The demand has led to increased poaching despite government efforts.

The Rhisotope Project

• Location: Limpopo Rhino Orphanage, Waterberg area, Northeast South Africa.
• Procedure: Small radioactive chips are inserted into rhino horns. The radioisotope administration process is painless and does not harm the animal or the environment.
• Goals: Make horns detectable at international border posts using nuclear terrorism detectors. Render the horn poisonous for human consumption to deter its use in traditional medicine.

Pilot and Implementation

• Twenty live rhinos are part of the pilot project.
• The radioactive material will set off global detectors, aiding in tracking and preventing illegal horn trafficking.
• Additional measures include spraying 11,000 microdots over the horn for added detection and identification.

Issues

• Increased Poaching Rates: 499 rhinos were killed in 2023, marking an 11% increase from 2022.
• Previous Measures: Dehorning and poisoning horns have not been fully effective in deterring poachers.

Significance

• Conservation Impact: If successful, the project could significantly reduce poaching rates and help in the conservation of rhino populations.
• Economic Implications: Rhino horns rival the price of gold and cocaine on the black market, making poaching a lucrative but illegal trade.
• Global Awareness: The project raises international awareness and cooperation in wildlife conservation efforts.

4. South India’s first Leopard safari inaugurated at Bannerghatta Biological Park in Bengaluru

Context: The inauguration of South India’s first and the country’s largest leopard safari at Bannerghatta Biological Park, Karnataka, by Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre.

• Aim: To highlight the population of leopards (Panthera pardus) and address human-animal conflict issues.

Key Features of the Leopard Safari

Area and Setup:

• The safari spans 20 hectares, adhering to Central Zoo Authority guidelines.
• The area includes natural rocky outcrops and semi-deciduous forest.
• It is enclosed with a 4.5-meter high vertical chain-link mesh and MS sheets inclined at a 30-degree angle.

Leopard Population:

• Eight leopards released in the open forest area.
• Bannerghatta is home to a substantial population of free-ranging leopards.
• Financial and Infrastructure Details

Cost:

• The facility was developed at a cost of ₹4.5 crore.

Acclimatization Area:

• Four acres within the safari are separated by a solar fence to help leopards acclimatize.
• Additional Park Developments

Inaugurated Facilities:

• Renovated elephant weaning centre.
• Babycare room at the butterfly park.
• Children’s play area and entrance arch.
• Electric buggies and zoo installations.

New Proposals:

• Enclosures for emus, rheas, hunting cheetahs, hamadryas and olive baboons, and Indian grey wolves with a total estimated cost of ₹6 crore.
• Skywalks to enhance connectivity between the zoo and the butterfly park.

Significance

• Conservation Efforts: Highlights the importance of preserving the leopard population. Provides a safe habitat for rescued leopards.
• Educational Value: Educates the public on leopards, human-animal conflict, and conservation methods.
• Tourism and Economic Impact: Attracts tourists, enhancing local economic activity.
• Biodiversity Awareness: Raises awareness about local biodiversity and the importance of wildlife protection.

Q1.Consider the following statements regarding geo-heritage sites in India:

Q2. Regarding the 'Rhisotope' project in South Africa, consider the
following statements:

Q3. Consider the following statements about coal mining in India:

Q4. Consider the following statements about the Biological Diversity Act in India:

Q5. Consider the following statements about South India’s first leopard safari: