CNA 08 May 2023:- Download PDF Here
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related GEOGRAPHY 1. India’s first national water-body census B. GS 2 Related C. GS 3 Related D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 1. China’s global image SECURITY 1. Improve technology to detect IEDs INDIAN SOCIETY 1. Countering false narratives and propaganda F. Prelims Facts 1. START Programme G. Tidbits 1. Karnataka polls: EC issues advisory on advertisements 2. Arab League readmits Syria after 11-year absence H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
1. India’s first national water-body census
Syllabus: Critical geographical features – Water resources and water bodies
Prelims: About India’s first national water-body census
Mains: Key findings of the national water-body census, its significance, shortcomings and the way forward
Context
The Ministry of Jal Shakti recently published the findings of the first-ever water body census.
The need for conducting a national water-body census
- India is currently experiencing a water crisis with the groundwater declining at a rapid rate, biodiversity loss, and increase in the frequency of climate change-induced floods and droughts.
- Water bodies play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of such adversities, act as a buffer against climate variability and are a key source of water, food and livelihoods across the country.
- Water bodies in India also have cultural and ecological significance.
- However, pollution, encroachment, urbanisation, and drying pose a significant risk to the depletion of water bodies in India.
- There exists a need to conserve and manage the water bodies effectively. Since water bodies in India are managed by different agencies of the Centre and the States, there was a need for the data to be uniform and easily accessible.
- Further, there was data on reservoirs and rivers available on the India Water Resources Information System (WRIS) but there was no data on smaller water bodies that are the lifeline of Indian villages.
India’s first national water-body census
- The census report defines water bodies as “all natural or man-made units bounded on all sides with some or no masonry work used for storing water for irrigation or other purposes ( e.g. industrial, pisciculture, domestic/ drinking, recreation, religious, ground water recharge etc.)”.
- The census programme categorises water bodies into five categories namely – ponds, tanks, lakes, reservoirs, and water conservation schemes.
- The key objective of the census programme was to create a national database with comprehensive data on the size, purpose, ownership, status, and conditions of water bodies.
- The programme made use of software for data entry and a mobile app for capturing the location and visual of the water bodies.
- The census also made use of the existing satellite-derived datasets which facilitate individuals to download the historical time series data on each water body.
- The water body census programme, extended this facility to social characteristics such as ownership, use and condition.
Key findings of the census programme
Image Source: Indian Express
- Most of the water bodies in the country are small: Majority of the water bodies in the country are less than one hectare large and the management of such water bodies is a key challenge.
- Water bodies in India show unique regional patterns depending on the rainfall: Water bodies are usually larger, publicly held and are mainly used for irrigation and groundwater recharge in drier States such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan.
- Whereas in the wetter parts of India such as, Kerala, West Bengal, and Northeastern States, more than 75% of the water bodies are privately owned and are used for domestic use and pisciculture purposes.
- Mid-sized water bodies in the country are mained owned by the panchayat.
- Several water bodies have not been revived: Several water bodies were classified “not in use” which refer to those water bodies which have not been repaired or revived despite the recent interest in rejuvenation.
- Rankings:
- West Bengal’s South 24 Pargana has been ranked as the district having the highest (3.55 lakh) number of water bodies in the country which is followed by Ananthapur (50,537) of Andhra Pradesh and Howrah (37,301) of West Bengal.
- Highest number of ponds and reservoirs – West Bengal
- Highest number of tanks – Andhra Pradesh
- Highest number of lakes – Tamil Nadu
- Leading state with water conservation schemes – Maharashtra
Read more – India’s First Water Body Census
Way forward
- The census programme was mainly focused on human use and there are gaps in the analysis of ecological functions of water bodies. Efforts are to be made in the coming years to address the issue as water bodies play a critical role in supporting biodiversity.
- Experts have also flagged inconsistencies regarding the categorisation of water bodies in the census programme which require attention.
- Challenges with respect to the standardised across States must be resolved.
- Despite various shortcomings, the government must continue such nationwide censuses of a vital resource, with modifications as they provide crucial information regarding the trends and the state resources in the country as a whole.
Nut graf: Water bodies have gained cultural and ecological significance in India. However, the country is witnessing a sharp water crisis and there is a need to manage water bodies efficiently which requires the integration of contextual and traditional knowledge of communities with the formal data. In this context, the first ever national water-body census has provided crucial data on aspects such as ownership, state of use, and the costs of repairs of water bodies.
B. GS 2 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
C. GS 3 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
Syllabus: Effect of Policies & Politics of Developed & Developing Countries on India’s Interests
Mains: China’s growing influence in central Asia and its implications for India
Context: China’s position paper on its policy in Afghanistan.
Introduction:
- In April 2023, the Foreign Ministers of Afghanistan’s neighbouring countries met in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, including China’s Foreign Minister, who released an 11-point policy paper titled “China’s position on the Afghan Issue.
- The paper outlines China’s policy towards Afghanistan and its priorities in engaging with the Taliban.
- It also reflects China’s recent efforts to reshape its image as a responsible mediator addressing international issues objectively.
China’s policy choices:
- In the policy paper, China delineates its respect for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Afghanistan and the Afghan people’s choices and criticises the West’s political policies, which it claims failed to fulfil commitments and impose democracy without considering Afghanistan’s unique characteristics.
- China advocates using regional groupings that exclude the US and its allies to discuss the Afghan issue, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, the Moscow Format Dialogue, the Foreign Ministers’ group, and the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Trilateral Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue.
- China seeks to promote an alternative model and form a consensus among Afghanistan’s neighbours.
- China frames its engagement in Afghanistan as being driven by humanitarian concerns, good neighbourly relations, and mutual respect for neighbouring countries, while refraining from explicitly acknowledging its own interests in the region.
- China calls for a multilateral approach to respond to terrorism, extremism, and separatism, urging the Taliban, regional countries, and the international community to crack down on terror groups, specifically the East Turkestan Islamic Movement and boost Afghanistan’s counterterrorism capabilities.
- The question of refugees and narcotics and their cross-border trafficking are also highlighted.
East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM):
- The East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) is a militant separatist group based in China’s Xinjiang region, which seeks to establish an independent state called East Turkestan.
- The Chinese government has accused ETIM of carrying out several terrorist attacks in Xinjiang and other parts of China. China has also claimed that the group has links with other terrorist organizations such as Al-Qaeda and the Taliban.
- The United Nations has designated ETIM as a terrorist organization, and several countries, including the United States and the European Union, have also listed the group as a terrorist organization.
- India has expressed concern about the activities of ETIM, particularly in the context of its growing ties with Pakistan-based militant groups.
Significance of this policy paper:
- Afghanistan borders China’s Xinjiang region, which is home to a significant population of Uighur Muslims. As such, Afghanistan’s stability and security directly affect China’s national security interests.
- Afghanistan is rich in natural resources, including minerals such as lithium, copper, and rare earth elements, which are essential for China’s high-tech industries. China is keen to develop these resources and has invested in several mining projects in Afghanistan.
- Afghanistan lies at the crossroads of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
- China has been seeking to expand its diplomatic influence in the region and sees Afghanistan as a key player in South Asia.
- China has been engaging with the Taliban and other Afghan factions to promote peace and stability in the country and enhance its influence in the region.
China’s effort to reshape its image:
- China has been making diplomatic efforts to project itself as a responsible mediator in resolving conflicts and promoting dialogue between different countries.
- It has been hosting and participating in various international forums and meetings to showcase its commitment to global governance.
- China highlights its achievements in bringing Iran and Saudi Arabia to negotiate and receiving visits from European leaders as evidence of its increasing influence.
- It also published the Global Security Initiative concept paper and the peace proposal for Ukraine.
Implications for India:
- China’s continued engagement with Russia and Iran, as well as the Central Asian countries, is seen as a strategic move to enhance its influence and secure its energy needs.
- The strengthening of the China-Russia-Iran trilateral partnership has implications for India’s strategic interests, as it could limit India’s influence in the region.
- China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has increased its engagement with Central Asian countries, which India views as a part of its extended neighbourhood.
- India has expressed concerns about the growing Chinese presence in the region, as it could lead to a potential encirclement of India by China and its allies.
- China’s deepening ties with Iran have also been a cause for concern for India, as it could impact India’s energy security and lead to a strategic shift in the region.
- However, India should continue to pursue its own strategic goals in the region, such as promoting stability, combating terrorism, and expanding economic opportunities, while also remaining mindful of China’s growing presence and its potential impact on India’s interests.
Nut Graf: China recently released an 11-point policy paper outlining China’s position on the Afghan issue which emphasises respect for its sovereignty and criticises the West’s failed policies.This policy paper reflects China’s efforts to reshape its image as a responsible mediator.
1. Improve technology to detect IEDs
Syllabus: Role of External State & Non-State Actors in Creating Challenges to Internal Security
Mains:Challenges associated with Left-wing extremism (LWE) in India.
Context: Maoist attack in Dantewada, Chhattisgarh.
Introduction:
- Ten jawans and a civilian driver were killed in a blast caused by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada on April 26,2023.
- The State police believe the blast was carried out by the proscribed Communist Party of India (Maoist).
- Laying ambushes and planting IEDs are the two most potent tools used by the Maoists since the 1980s.
- Since the nature of the protracted armed struggle is guerrilla warfare and the terrain is favourable to the Maoists, even a small number may inflict considerable damage on the security forces.
Improvised Explosive Device (IED):
- IEDs are homemade or non-standard explosive devices made from commonly available materials such as fertiliser, propane tanks, and cell phones.
- There are several types of IEDs such as roadside bombs, suicide bombs, vehicle-borne IEDs, and command-detonated IEDs.
- Roadside bombs are the most common type of IED and are typically placed on or near a roadway to target vehicles passing by.
- IEDs are cheap, easy to make, and can be concealed in ordinary objects. They are also highly adaptable, making them a preferred weapon for insurgents and terrorists. IEDs can cause significant damage and casualties with minimal risk to the attacker.
- The use of IEDs is prohibited under international law. The Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW) prohibits the use of IEDs in armed conflicts, and the International Mine Action Standards (IMAS) provide guidelines for the safe disposal of explosive remnants of war, including IEDs.
IED Detection:
- Several electronic countermeasures are used by Indian security forces to detect IEDs. These include electronic jamming, signal interception, and the use of ground-penetrating radar to detect metallic objects underground.
- The use of sniffer dogs is a common method used by Indian security forces to detect IEDs. Trained dogs can detect the presence of explosive materials that may be hidden from sight or not detectable by electronic means.
- Thermal imaging cameras and X-ray inspection techniques are also used by Indian security forces to detect IEDs.
- Remote sensing technology, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), is increasingly being used by Indian security forces to detect IEDs. UAVs can be equipped with sensors that can detect changes in terrain, vegetation, and other indicators that may suggest the presence of an IED.
Issues with these methods:
- The detection and disposal of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) are complex and challenging tasks that require specialised training and equipment.
- One of the limitations of technical equipment used by security forces is the detection of IEDs with low metal content.
- Typically, metal detectors are used to detect metallic components within an IED. However, some IEDs are designed with a low metal content or non-metallic materials, making them difficult to detect with metal detectors.
- Another limitation of technical equipment is the ability to detect IEDs that are buried deep under the road or concealed within structures.
- Furthermore, despite the use of sophisticated equipment and specialised training, security forces could always miss a few IEDs due to technical reasons. This is because IEDs can be designed to be highly concealed, and attackers may use a variety of techniques to conceal or camouflage the IED, making it difficult to detect.
Way Forward:
- Continuous investment in research and development is crucial for improving the technical equipment used for IED detection. The government could fund research to develop new sensors and detection technologies that can detect IEDs with low metal content or those concealed under the road.
- Capacity building and training are crucial to ensure that security forces have the necessary skills and expertise to detect and dispose of IEDs effectively. The training should be based on the latest techniques, technology, and tactics used by terrorist groups.
- A coordinated effort among intelligence agencies at the national and international levels could help identify potential threats and prevent attacks.
- The information printed on the boxes containing detonators is inadequate to track the source of the detonators and hold the perpetrators accountable. Therefore, the central government should revise the regulations and hold the manufacturers responsible for providing a unique identification for the detonators.
- India must also raise the issue of Maoists’ use of IEDs at appropriate international platforms to compel them to abide by international humanitarian laws and abandon these devices.
Read more on Left Wing Extremism
Nut Graf: Increasing attacks by Maoists using IEDs necessitates the need for a multi-pronged approach with more focus on research and development for security forces to improve their ability to detect and prevent IED attacks in India.
Category: INDIAN SOCIETY
1. Countering false narratives and propaganda
Syllabus: Salient features of Indian Society-Challenges posed by Diversity
Mains: Various issues associated with using movies to promote false narratives and propaganda.
Context: Demand for a ban on the movie ‘The Kerala Story’.
Introduction:
- The Supreme Court and High Courts of Kerala and Madras have rejected pleas seeking ban on the movie “The Kerala Story”.
- It is now legally settled that once a film has been certified by the statutory authority, there is really no case to ban one.
- Those seeking the ban accuse its makers of trying to stoke communal passions and the projecting of a fake narrative against Muslims.
- The movie gained negative attention due to a teaser that made a sensational claim that 32,000 girls in Kerala went missing, possibly to join a terrorist group.
- The film-makers have agreed to withdraw the teaser and carry a disclaimer that the film’s content is fictional.
- However, threats of protests have resulted in some cinema owners choosing not to screen the film.
False narratives and propaganda:
- False narratives and propaganda in Indian movies have been a long-standing issue. Historically, movies have been used to create a sense of national identity and to promote social values.
- In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the use of movies to propagate false narratives and propaganda in India.
- Movies are an integral part of Indian culture, and they have a significant influence on people’s perceptions and beliefs.
- The power of movies to shape public opinion has been recognized by governments and political parties, and they have been used to push their own agendas.
- However, the use of movies to spread false narratives and propaganda is a dangerous trend that needs to be addressed.
- Stereotypes and the use of selective facts are few of the most common ways in which false narratives and propaganda are propagated.
Impact on Society:
- The impact of false narratives and propaganda on society is profound.
- It can lead to the polarisation of communities and the creation of divisions based on religion, caste, and ethnicity. This can lead to violence, as we have seen in several instances in India.
- False narratives and propaganda can also affect people’s perceptions of reality. It can create an environment in which people start to believe in things that are not true, and this can lead to irrational behaviour.
- For example, if a movie portrays a particular community as being responsible for all the crime in a city, people might start to believe that all members of that community are criminals. This can lead to the ostracization of that community and the creation of a hostile environment.
Countering False Narratives and Propaganda in Indian Movies:
- Even if a film contains objectionable content, banning it would not be a productive approach. Court rulings can overturn bans, and such actions often create curiosity about the film, leading to more people forming opinions about its content. I
- While laws related to public order grant the police and local authorities the authority to stop the screening of a film, it would be hazardous to use this power each time a group calls for a ban.
- Banning movies that some people deem to be promoting false narratives can stifle the freedom of expression and the exploration of different viewpoints.
- The decision to ban movies based on complaints that they promote false narratives is subjective and can be influenced by political or ideological agendas. This can lead to the selective censorship of movies that challenge the dominant narratives and perspectives of those in power.
- A more effective way to tackle concerns regarding this would be to encourage critical thinking and media literacy among the general public. This can help people to differentiate between fact and fiction and to engage with movies in a more informed and nuanced way.
- Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in India, could be strengthened and made more transparent to ensure that movies are certified based on objective standards and criteria.
- Ultimately, it is important to strike a balance between freedom of expression and responsible filmmaking. While false narratives should not be promoted, banning movies outright is not the solution. Instead, a more nuanced and multi-faceted approach is needed to tackle this issue.
Nut Graf: False narratives and propaganda in Indian movies have been a long-standing issue. The impact of false narratives and propaganda on society is profound. The harm caused by a misleading portrayal of reality can be effectively addressed by exposing the falsehood and the motive behind it, rather than resorting to abrupt bans.
F. Prelims Facts
Syllabus: GS-3; Science and Technology; Awareness in the field of space
Prelims: About START Programme
Context
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced a new training programme named space science and technology awareness training (START).
START Programme
- Space Science and Technology Awareness Training (START) is an introductory-level online training programme launched by the ISRO.
- This programme is designed in such a way that it covers various aspects of space science, such as Astronomy, Astrophysics, Aeronomy, Heliophysics, Sun-Earth interaction and Instrumentation.
- The programme is also expected to cover topics on the Indian Space Science exploration programme and research opportunities in Space Science.
- The programme is aimed at post-graduate and final-year undergraduate students of physical sciences and technology and will be delivered by scientists from Indian academia and ISRO.
- The main aim of the programme is to provide introductory-level training for students in space science and technology and also educate them about different facets of the field, research opportunities, and career options.
- The START programme is in line with ISRO’s efforts to enable Indian students to become professionals in space science and technology, as the organization’s space exploration programmes continue to expand into new domains.
G. Tidbits
1. Karnataka polls: EC issues advisory on advertisements
- Ahead of the State Assembly election in Karnataka on May 10th, 2023, the Election Commission (EC) has directed the political parties to refrain from publishing any advertisement in the print media on the day of the election and the day before without prior certification.
- The Election Commission has added that advertisements during the silence period will have to be pre-certified by the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC).
- The silence period usually begins 48 hours before the polling day and ends after polling ends, during which there are restrictions on active campaigning by the candidates or political parties.
- The Election Commission further wrote to editors of newspapers in the State that the Press Council of India’s (PCI) norms for journalistic conduct held them responsible for all matters, including advertisements, published in their newspapers.
- On the 2nd of May 2023, the poll body had taken serious note of the “plummeting” level of campaign discourse for the Karnataka Assembly polls and had asked political parties to exercise restraint and focus on “issue” based debates.
2. Arab League readmits Syria after 11-year absence
- The Arab League re-admitted the Syrian government ending a more than decade-long suspension and isolation.
- The Arab League in November 2011 had suspended Syria over its crackdown on peaceful protests that took the shape of a civil conflict that led to the killing of over 5,00,000 people.
- Arab League is a regional organisation of Arab states in the Middle East.
- It was formed in Cairo in 1945 with six members namely Egypt, Iraq, Transjordan (renamed Jordan in 1949), Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and Syria.
- The league currently has 22 member states.
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1. Consider the following statements w.r.t Space science and Technology AwaReness Training (START) programme: (Level – Easy)
- It is a sponsored programme organised by ISRO for School Children to impart basic knowledge on Space Technology.
- The programme will cover various domains of space science, including Astronomy & Astrophysics, Heliophysics & Sun-Earth interaction, Instrumentation, and Aeronomy.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both
- None
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is not correct, Space Science and Technology Awareness Training (START) is an introductory-level online training programme launched by the ISRO.
- The programme is aimed at post-graduate and final-year undergraduate students of physical sciences and technology and will be delivered by scientists from Indian academia and ISRO.
- Statement 2 is correct, The START programme is designed in such a way that it covers various aspects of space science, such as Astronomy, Astrophysics, Aeronomy, Heliophysics, Sun-Earth interaction and Instrumentation.
Q2. Which of the following laws are associated with a 'Shoot At Sight' Order? (Level – Difficult)
- Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA)
- Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC)
- Indian Penal Code (IPC)
- Prison Act
- Probation of Offenders Act
Options:
- 1, 2 and 3 only
- 2, 3 and 4 only
- 1, 4 and 5 only
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Explanation:
- “Shoot-at-sight” orders can be passed under:
- Sections 41-60 and Sections 149-152 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973.
- Section 3(a) of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958 (AFSPA),
- Section 81 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860
Q3. Telegraph Memorial made of grey Aberdeen granite and standing on a sandstone base, was unveiled by Lord Curzon. It is dedicated to the efforts and sacrifice of telegraphers during the (Level – Moderate)
- Paika Rebellion of 1817
- Revolt of 1857
- Vellore Mutiny
- Sannyasi rebellion
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
- A 18-foot-high obelisk, made of grey Aberdeen granite and standing on a sandstone base, was unveiled by Lord Curzon on April 19, 1902 inside the Kashmere Gate Telegraph Office.
- The words “The Electric Telegraph has saved India” are inscribed on the Telegraph Memorial which is dedicated to the efforts and sacrifice of telegraphers during the Revolt of 1857.
Q4. Consider the following Pairs: (Level – Difficult)
Initiatives State/UT
- Chandauli Black Rice Initiative Uttar Pradesh
- Kalika Chetarike Karnataka
- Santhe Kaushalkar Telangana
- SARTHI & SAKHI -Mental Health Helpline Maharashtra
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?
- Only one pair
- Only two pairs
- Only three pairs
- All four pairs
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
- Pair 1 is correct, Chandauli is an aspirational district, also known as the “rice bowl of Uttar Pradesh”, the District Administration of Chandauli through the “Chandauli Black Rice Initiative” tried to increase the income of the farmers by employing innovative methods.
- Pair 2 is correct, Kalika Chetarike was launched by the Karnataka Government in order to bridge the learning gap induced by the Covid pandemic.
- Pair 3 is not correct, Santhe Kaushalkar is the first of its kind SHG/Artisan profiling platform and mobile application offering SHGs/Artisans a digital identity to showcase their products, thus increasing their visibility and value.
- With this application, Government of Karnataka and UNDP are providing business connections to match directly with the customers and compete effectively in the online market.
- Pair 4 is not correct, SARTHI & SAKHI -Mental Health Helpline are dedicated mental health helplines established for individuals to access mental health care from a professional in Covid-19 times.
- Nodal agency is the District administration, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.
Q5. In India, if a religious sect/community is given the status of a national minority, what special advantages it is entitled to? (Level – Easy) PYQ (2011)
- It can establish and administer exclusive educational institutions.
- The President of India automatically nominates a representative of the community to Lok Sabha.
- It can derive benefits from the Prime Minister’s 15-Point Programme.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct, According to Article 30 of the Constitutions, “All minorities shall have the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice”.
- Statement 2 is not correct, There is no provision for the President of India to automatically nominate a member of a minority religious community to the Lok Sabha.
- Statement 3 is correct, Minorities can derive benefits from the Prime Minister’s 15-Point Programme which was launched in 2005.
- The programme envisages to ensure the welfare of minorities in the fields of education, skill development, employment and prevention of communal conflicts.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- On Taliban, India and China share similar concerns and, therefore, must engage with each other for mutual benefit and regional peace. Comment. (150 Words; 10 marks) (GS-2; International Relations)
- Restrictions to freedom of expression in India are often cast as a colonialera hangover but they are also rooted in the popular feelings of society and are in a sense, reflective of local norms. Comment. (250 Words; 15 marks) (GS-2; Polity and Governance)
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CNA 08 May 2023:- Download PDF Here
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