19 May 2024 CNA
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related Art & Culture 1. Universal cinema B. GS 2 Related International Relations 1. What are the NIA’s allegations against NSCN? C. GS 3 Related Internal Security 1. India’s gateway to Central Asia Environment 1. Staying power D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials F. Prelims Facts 1. IIIT, Kalamandalam to develop AI to bring Kathakali closer to the minds of art lovers 2. Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger finalise regional alliance project 3. Don’t use calcium carbide to ripen fruits, orders FSSAI 4. ‘Don’t use Jackie Shroff’s name, voice without consent’ 5. India asks students in Kyrgyzstan to stay indoors G. Tidbits H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
Category:Art & Culture
Syllabus: Art & Culture
Prelims: Cannes Film Festival
Context:
- The Cannes Film Festival, one of the most prestigious and long-running film festivals in the world, has played a pivotal role in promoting cinematic art and fostering international collaboration. This year’s edition is particularly significant for India, marking the end of a 30-year wait to compete for the Palme d’Or, the festival’s highest honor.
Historical Context
- Origins: Conceived by French writer and art critic Philippe Erlanger, the Cannes Film Festival was established as a counterpoint to the Venice Mostra, which had been influenced by fascist regimes. The festival’s inaugural edition was disrupted by the outbreak of World War II.
- Post-War Resurgence: The festival was successfully launched in 1946, symbolizing a post-war rebirth and quickly becoming a nexus for arthouse cinema globally.
Cannes’ Evolution and Significance
- Artistic Platform: Over the years, Cannes has evolved into a premier platform for showcasing artistic cinema, providing filmmakers from around the world an opportunity to present their work to a global audience.
- Cultural Resistance: The festival has a storied history of resistance and solidarity, exemplified by events such as the 1968 disruption led by Jean-Luc Godard and François Truffaut in solidarity with student protests.
Recent Developments
- Current Edition: This year’s festival is notable for its backdrop of the #MeToo movement in France and the participation of Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof, who fled his country to present his film.
- Indian Participation: India’s return to the Palme d’Or competition with Payal Kapadia’s “All We Imagine As Light” is a highlight, renewing a connection that began with Chetan Anand’s “Neecha Nagar” in 1946.
Issues
- Geopolitical Influences: The festival’s operations and participation are often affected by global political climates, such as the current issues facing Iranian filmmakers.
- Industry Challenges: The film industry’s ongoing debates about representation, inclusivity, and the impact of movements like #MeToo continue to influence festival narratives and selections.
- Market vs. Art: Cannes constantly grapples with balancing commercial interests and the preservation of cinematic art, a debate highlighted by its historical and contemporary proceedings.
Significance
- Cultural Impact: Cannes serves as a critical cultural barometer, reflecting and influencing global cinematic trends and societal issues through its selections and awards.
- Platform for Change: The festival provides a platform for underrepresented voices and controversial issues, pushing for societal change through the medium of film.
- India’s Cinematic Milestone: India’s re-entry into the Palme d’Or competition highlights the country’s evolving cinematic landscape and its quest for international recognition.
Solutions
- Enhanced Support for Filmmakers: Increased support and protection for filmmakers facing political persecution can ensure their continued participation and contribution to global cinema.
- Promotion of Inclusivity: Cannes should continue to champion diverse voices and stories, promoting inclusivity within the cinematic community.
- Balancing Commerce and Art: The festival can maintain its artistic integrity by carefully curating its selections to balance commercial viability and artistic expression.
Nut Graf: The Cannes Film Festival remains a beacon of cinematic excellence and cultural resistance. Its commitment to promoting cinematic art, coupled with its role in highlighting societal issues, makes it a unique and influential event in the film industry. India’s renewed participation in the Palme d’Or competition underscores the festival’s enduring significance and its impact on global cinema.
B. GS 2 Related
Category:International Relations
1. India’s gateway to Central Asia
Syllabus: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s Interests
Mains: India – Iran relations
Context: Chabahar port in Iran holds immense strategic importance for India, serving as a gateway to Central Asia. The development of this port, a project that has seen sporadic progress since its inception in the early 2000s, has recently received a significant boost with India and Iran signing a long-term agreement for its further development and operation.
Historical Context
- Pre-Partition Ties: Chabahar, earlier known as Tiz, had close cultural and linguistic ties with India. However, post-Independence, relations between India and Iran were not particularly close due to differing geopolitical alignments.
- Initial Developments: In the 1970s, the Shah of Iran envisioned developing Chabahar. The real momentum began in the 1990s when Iran invited India to develop the port. Significant agreements were reached during Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s visit to Tehran in 2001 and President Mohammad Khatami’s visit to Delhi in 2003.
Strategic Importance
- Location: Chabahar’s strategic location near the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz makes it vital for trade and military purposes. It offers India an alternative route to Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan.
- Connectivity: Chabahar is integral to the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), linking India to Central Asia, Russia, and Europe. It also provides a route for Indian aid and trade to Afghanistan.
Geopolitical Challenges
- US Sanctions: US sanctions on Iran have repeatedly hindered the progress of Chabahar. Despite securing a carve-out for the port, India had to navigate complex diplomatic waters, especially under the Trump administration.
- Chinese Competition: China’s development of Gwadar port in Pakistan has spurred India to expedite its work on Chabahar, viewing it as a counterbalance in the region.
Recent Developments
- Latest Agreement: In May 2023, India and Iran signed a 10-year agreement to further develop the port, with India committing $120 million and a $250 million credit line. This agreement aims to expand the port’s capacity significantly.
- Operational Achievements: Despite challenges, the Shahid Beheshti terminal has handled substantial traffic and aid shipments, underlining its operational significance.
Solutions
- Diplomatic Engagement: Continued diplomatic efforts with the US to ensure exemptions for Chabahar and mitigate the impact of sanctions.
- Infrastructure Investment: Accelerate investment in infrastructure projects linked to Chabahar, including the railway to Zahedan and road connectivity to Afghanistan.
- Regional Partnerships: Strengthen partnerships with Central Asian countries and Afghanistan to maximize the port’s utilization and regional connectivity.
Nut Graf: Chabahar port represents a strategic linchpin in India’s foreign policy, offering an alternative trade route to Central Asia and enhancing its regional influence. Despite the challenges posed by geopolitical instability and sanctions, the recent agreement between India and Iran marks a significant step forward
C. GS 3 Related
Category:Internal Security
1. What are the NIA’s allegations against NSCN?
Syllabus: Linkages between development and spread of extremism, Role of state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security
Mains: Internal Security Challenges due to National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM)
Context: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) recently filed a chargesheet implicating the Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM) in activities aimed at destabilizing Manipur.
NIA’s Allegations Against NSCN
- Chargesheet Details: On March 7, 2024, the NIA filed a chargesheet in a Guwahati court against five individuals linked to the NSCN-IM, alleging their involvement in supporting banned Meitei outfits, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and Kanglei Yaol Kanba Lup (KYKL).
- Accusations: The NIA accuses these groups of exploiting ethnic unrest in Manipur to destabilize the state and wage war against the Indian government. The accused were found with looted weapons and ammunition, purportedly to carry out terror attacks against the Kuki-Zo community.
Link with Naga Insurgency Group
- Support to Meitei Insurgents: The NSCN-IM is alleged to have supported valley-based insurgent groups like the PLA and KYKL, facilitating their infiltration into India through the “China-Myanmar module”.
- Training Camps: Evidence includes the organization of weapons training camps for local youth, aimed at perpetuating violence during the ethnic clashes in Manipur.
Ethnic Dynamics in Manipur
- Main Ethnic Groups: Manipur is home to three main ethnic groups: the Meitei (53%), Nagas (17%), and Kuki-Zo (26%), as per the 2011 Census.
- Ethnic Unrest: Historical and ongoing ethnic tensions, particularly between the Kuki-Zo and Naga communities, have been exacerbated by insurgent activities and demands for separate territories.
Issues
- Cross-Border Dynamics: The porous India-Myanmar border facilitates insurgent movement and arms smuggling, complicating security efforts.
- Ethnic Violence: The involvement of insurgent groups in ethnic conflicts aggravates already fragile inter-community relations.
- Security Challenges: The NIA’s findings underscore the complex security landscape in Northeast India, where various insurgent groups operate with external support.
Significance
- First Official Link: The chargesheet represents the first official acknowledgment of the NSCN-IM’s involvement with Meitei insurgent groups amid the current ethnic crisis.
- Broader Implications: The allegations highlight the persistent threat posed by insurgent groups in destabilizing regional security and fostering ethnic violence.
- Policy Impact: The findings may influence India’s counter-insurgency strategies and border management policies, particularly concerning the India-Myanmar border.
Solutions
- Strengthening Border Security: Enhancing surveillance and fencing the India-Myanmar border to prevent insurgent infiltration.
- Community Engagement: Promoting dialogue and reconciliation among ethnic groups to mitigate tensions and prevent insurgent exploitation of ethnic divides.
- Counter-Insurgency Operations: Intensifying efforts to dismantle insurgent networks and curtail their sources of support and recruitment.
- Political Solutions: Encouraging political dialogue with insurgent groups to address their grievances and integrate them into the mainstream political process.
Nut Graf: The NIA’s chargesheet against NSCN-IM members underscores the intricate nexus between ethnic unrest and insurgency in Manipur. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach involving enhanced security measures, community engagement, and political solutions to foster lasting peace and stability in the region
Category:Environment
Syllabus: Conservation, Environmental pollution and degradation
Prelims: Coal and lignite
Mains: Status of Coal and Lignite Production and challenges
Context: Coal and lignite have long been the cornerstones of India’s energy security, with significant contributions from public sector undertakings (PSUs). As the country pushes towards renewable energy, these PSUs are increasingly integrating sustainable practices into their operations. Tamil Nadu, a major lignite producer, is at the forefront of this transition.
Current Status of Coal and Lignite Production
- Major Producers: Tamil Nadu leads lignite production in India, accounting for nearly 50% of the national output in 2022-23. Gujarat and Rajasthan follow, contributing 27.37% and 22.67% respectively.
- Key Player: NLC India Ltd. (NLCIL) is a significant lignite producer headquartered in Neyveli, Tamil Nadu. In 2023-24, NLCIL achieved an all-time high production of 36.32 tonnes of coal and lignite.
Energy Generation Capacity
- Installed Capacity: NLCIL has a substantial power generation capacity in Tamil Nadu, with 4,390 MW from thermal projects and 1,411 MW from renewable energy projects.
- Future Targets: The company aims to reach an installed capacity of 17.1 GW, including 6 GW from renewable sources, by 2030.
Issues
Environmental Impact
- Mining Consequences: The environmental repercussions of lignite and coal mining include land degradation and habitat destruction.
- Overburden Management: Open cast mining requires removing significant amounts of overburden (soil and stone), which must be managed to mitigate environmental damage.
Sustainable Practices
- Reclamation and Afforestation: Initiatives for scientific reclamation of mined lands and afforestation are being implemented, although more comprehensive efforts are needed.
- Community-Centric Uses: Future plans include converting reclaimed land into community-centric spaces such as restored forests and eco-parks.
Significance
Energy Security
- Reliability: Coal and lignite remain vital for ensuring energy security in India, providing a stable and reliable energy source amidst growing energy demands.
- PSU Leadership: PSUs like NLCIL play a crucial role in balancing traditional energy sources with renewable energy integration.
Economic Impact
- Employment: The mining and energy sectors provide significant employment opportunities, particularly in states like Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Rajasthan.
- Economic Growth: Energy production is fundamental to industrial growth and economic stability.
Solutions
Enhancing Sustainability
- Green Initiatives: PSUs should continue and expand green initiatives, including overburden treatment and afforestation, to reduce the environmental impact of mining.
- Renewable Integration: Increasing the share of renewable energy in the overall energy mix will help in reducing the carbon footprint.
Technological Innovations
- Advanced Mining Techniques: Adoption of advanced, less invasive mining techniques can minimize environmental damage.
- Renewable Technologies: Investing in cutting-edge renewable technologies will aid in achieving the targeted renewable capacity.
Policy and Regulatory Support
- Government Incentives: Government policies should incentivize sustainable mining practices and renewable energy projects.
- Clear Regulations: Clear and consistent regulations can help streamline land acquisition and other operational challenges.
Nut Graf: Coal and lignite will continue to be essential for India’s energy security for the foreseeable future. However, the integration of sustainable practices and a strong push towards renewable energy are imperative to mitigate environmental impacts. Public sector undertakings like NLCIL are at the forefront of this transition, demonstrating that balancing energy needs with environmental stewardship is not only possible but necessary for a sustainable future.
D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
Nothing here for today!!!
Context: The Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Kottayam, in collaboration with Kerala Kalamandalam, Thrissur, has embarked on an innovative project to develop an AI-enabled tool aimed at fostering a deeper appreciation for the classical art form Kathakali.
Project Overview
- Initiation and Collaboration: The project is a joint effort between IIIT Kottayam and Kerala Kalamandalam.
- Objective: To create an AI tool that provides semantic interpretations of Kathakali, helping audiences understand its intricate mudras and expressions.
Methodology
- Encoding Mudras: Researchers are encoding the 24 fundamental mudras (hand gestures) of Kathakali into a computer for statistical analysis.
- Data Collection: The project involves collecting images and short videos of mudras from Kerala Kalamandalam to build a comprehensive dataset.
- Real-Time Interpretation: The system will eventually generate real-time interpretations of performances in different languages, displayed as subtitles.
Project Leadership
- Lead Researchers: The project is led by Nandini Warrier, Assistant Professor at IIIT Kottayam, with significant contributions from researcher Manu Madhavan.
- Technological Integration: The project combines AI and machine learning to analyze and interpret the nuances of Kathakali.
Issues
Technological Challenges
- Data Accuracy: Ensuring accurate encoding of mudras and their context-specific meanings.
- Real-Time Processing: Developing a system capable of real-time interpretation and subtitle generation.
Cultural Concerns
- Artist Reception: Some artists may be skeptical about the use of AI in traditional art forms.
- Authenticity: Maintaining the authenticity of Kathakali while integrating modern technology.
Significance
Promoting Kathakali
- Accessibility: Making Kathakali more accessible to a global audience, including foreign visitors.
- Educational Tool: Assisting in the training of young artists by providing a detailed understanding of mudras and their meanings.
Technological Advancement
- AI in Arts: Demonstrates the potential of AI in enhancing cultural and artistic appreciation.
- Innovation: Pioneering the use of AI in traditional dance forms, setting a precedent for future projects.
Solutions
Enhancing Data Collection
- Comprehensive Datasets: Continue collecting a diverse range of images and videos to enrich the dataset.
- Collaboration with Experts: Work closely with Kathakali masters to ensure accurate representation of mudras and expressions.
Addressing Cultural Concerns
- Artist Involvement: Involve artists in the development process to ensure their concerns are addressed.
- Balancing Tradition and Technology: Maintain a balance between preserving the traditional aspects of Kathakali and integrating technological advancements.
Technical Improvements
- Advanced AI Algorithms: Use advanced machine learning algorithms to improve the accuracy and speed of real-time interpretation.
- User-Friendly Interface: Develop a user-friendly interface for the AI tool to ensure it is accessible to both artists and audiences.
2. Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger finalise regional alliance project
Context: The recent geopolitical developments in West Africa, particularly involving Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, mark a significant shift in regional alliances. The three nations, all currently governed by military juntas, have finalized plans to form a confederation named the Confederation of the Alliance of Sahel States (CASS). This move signifies a strategic pivot away from their former colonial ruler, France, towards fostering closer ties with Russia.
Formation of the Confederation
- Participants: Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger
- Meeting Venue: Niamey, the capital of Niger
- Purpose: Establish the Confederation of the Alliance of Sahel States (CASS)
- Geopolitical Shift: Moving away from France, their former colonial power, towards closer relations with Russia.
Historical Context
- Colonial History: All three countries were former French colonies.
- Recent Changes: Political instability and the rise of military juntas in all three nations.
- Previous Alliances: Traditionally aligned with France and Western nations for security and economic cooperation.
Issues
Political Instability
- Military Juntas: The current governance in all three countries is under military control, raising concerns about democratic processes and human rights.
- Internal Conflicts: Ongoing issues with insurgency, terrorism, and internal displacement.
Economic Challenges
- Developmental Needs: High levels of poverty, unemployment, and underdevelopment.
- Foreign Aid Dependency: Historically dependent on aid from Western nations, particularly France.
Security Concerns
- Terrorism and Insurgency: Persistent threats from terrorist groups operating in the Sahel region.
- Regional Instability: Cross-border terrorism and lack of effective regional security cooperation.
3. Don’t use calcium carbide to ripen fruits, orders FSSAI
Context: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has reiterated its directive prohibiting the use of calcium carbide for artificial ripening of fruits. This measure aims to safeguard public health by ensuring that fruits available in the market are free from harmful chemicals.
Calcium Carbide and Its Uses
- Chemical Properties: Calcium carbide is a chemical compound used in industrial applications.
- Illegal Use: It is often used unlawfully to artificially ripen fruits due to its cost-effectiveness and quick action.
Health Risks
- Toxicity: Calcium carbide contains impurities such as arsenic and phosphorus, which pose significant health risks.
- Health Hazards: Exposure to these chemicals can cause various health issues, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and long-term effects such as cancer.
Issues
Non-Compliance
- Market Practices: Despite the ban, some traders and fruit handlers continue to use calcium carbide due to lack of awareness or disregard for regulations.
- Enforcement Challenges: Ensuring compliance across numerous small vendors and unorganized markets poses a significant challenge.
Public Health Concerns
- Consumer Safety: Consumption of chemically ripened fruits can lead to serious health complications.
- Food Safety Standards: Maintaining stringent food safety standards is essential to protect public health.
Significance
Legal Framework
- Regulatory Authority: FSSAI, under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, enforces food safety regulations in India.
- Prohibition: The use of calcium carbide for ripening fruits is explicitly prohibited under these regulations.
Public Awareness
- Consumer Rights: Ensuring that consumers are aware of the risks associated with artificially ripened fruits.
- Market Practices: Promoting safe and legal methods for fruit ripening among traders and food business operators.
4. ‘Don’t use Jackie Shroff’s name, voice without consent’
Context: The Delhi High Court has issued an interim order prohibiting the unauthorized use of actor Jackie Shroff’s name, voice, and images for commercial purposes. This decision underscores the importance of personality and publicity rights, particularly for celebrities.
Background
- Case Overview: The case involves entities using Jackie Shroff’s name, sobriquets like “Jackie” and “Jaggu Dadda,” voice, and images without his consent for commercial gain.
- Entities Involved: Various entities were found selling merchandise such as wallpapers, T-shirts, posters, and operating an AI chatbot platform using Shroff’s persona.
Legal Basis
- Personality and Publicity Rights: These rights protect an individual’s persona from unauthorized commercial exploitation.
- Court’s Interim Order: Justice Sanjeev Narula’s order restrains the misuse of Shroff’s attributes, acknowledging the violation of his rights.
Issues
Unauthorized Commercial Use
- Profane Content: The court noted instances where content creators published videos featuring Shroff with extremely profane language.
- Commercial Exploitation: Unauthorized use of Shroff’s persona for selling merchandise on e-commerce platforms.
Violation of Rights
- Personality Rights: These rights are inherently associated with a celebrity’s status and protect against unauthorized use of their persona.
- Publicity Rights: Prevent the commercial exploitation of an individual’s identity without permission.
5. India asks students in Kyrgyzstan to stay indoors
Context: Amidst reports of mob attacks against students from Pakistan in Kyrgyzstan, the Embassy of India has advised Indian students in the country to stay indoors. The situation appears to have been exacerbated by social media rumors following a skirmish between local residents and foreign students.
Current Situation
- Advisory Issued: The Indian Embassy in Kyrgyzstan has advised Indian students to stay indoors.
- Communication Channels: The embassy has provided a 24×7 contact number for assistance (0555710041).
- Trigger Incident: The advisory follows mob attacks reportedly sparked by social media rumors after a skirmish between local residents and foreign students.
Government Response
- Kyrgyzstan’s Statement: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic has blamed “destructive forces” for spreading viral videos and reassured that the situation is under control.
- Indian Embassy’s Measures: The embassy is in constant touch with Indian students to ensure their safety.
Issues
Safety Concerns
- Mob Attacks: The immediate threat to the safety of Indian students due to mob violence.
- Social Media Influence: The role of social media in inciting violence and spreading rumors.
Diplomatic Relations
- Bilateral Tensions: Potential impact on India-Kyrgyzstan relations.
- International Image: Kyrgyzstan’s international reputation concerning the safety of foreign students
G. Tidbits
Nothing here for today!!!
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1.Consider the following statements with respect to Calcium Carbide:
- When it reacts with water, it produces acetylene gas.
- It has carcinogenic properties and is used in gas welding.
- It is used to induce ripening in fruits.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- All Three
- Non Of The Above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation: All three statements are correct. When Calcium Carbide reacts with water, it produces acetylene gas which is an analogue to ethylene and quickens the fruit ripening process. FSSAI has banned its use for ripening fruits.
Q2. Alliance of Sahel States (ASS) is a mutual defense pact created between:
(a) Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger
(b) Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Chad
(c) Mali, Niger, Chad
(d) Niger, Nigeria, Mali
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Explanation: The Alliance of Sahel States (ASS ) is a mutual defense pact created between Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso in September 2023. The pact was created during the 2023 Nigerien crisis
Q3.The orchestra of a Kathakali performance normally comprises how many of the following instruments?
- Idakka
- Chenda
- Tabla
- Maddalam
Choose the correct answer from the code given below:
(a) One only
(b) Two only
(c) Three only
(d) All four
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation: Orchestra of Kathakali and the traditional performing arts of Kerala, normally comprises the Chenda, Maddalam, Chengila, Ilathalam, Idakka and Shankhu.
Q4.Consider the following statements with respect to Lignite:
1. It is the best quality coal with the highest calorific value.
2. Tamil Nadu is the largest producer of lignite in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation: Anthracite is the best quality coal with the highest calorific value. Lignite is The lowest rank of coal with lower carbon content and high moisture content.
Q5.This port is on the Gulf of Oman at the mouth of the Strait of Hormuz. It is the only Iranian port having direct access to the Indian Ocean.The port being described is:
(a) Anzali port
(b) Bandar Abbas port
(c) Chabahar port
(d) Gwadar port
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation: The port being described is Chabahar port.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- The question of India’s energy security is the most important part of India’s economic progress. Discuss the importance of Chabahar port for India in increasing trade in Central Asia. (150 Words 10 Marks) (General Studies – II, International Relations )
- Serious allegations have been made against the Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) in the Manipur case by NIA . How can this harm the peace process in the North-East? Comment (250 Words 15 Marks) (General Studies – III, Internal Security)
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