CNA 13 Nov 2021:- Download PDF Here
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related HEALTH 1. MDRF opens centre to study monogenic diabetes EDUCATION 1. ‘Remote education was inaccessible to most children’ C. GS 3 Related ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY 1. Negotiators at COP26 brainstorm overdraft ECONOMY 1. Small investors, salaried can now buy govt. bonds easily: PM SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 1. ‘Cyber Crime went up by 500% during pandemic’ D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 1. NAM at 60 marks an age of Indian alignment HISTORY 1. The enduring relevance of Nehru’s legacy F. Prelims Facts 1. PM to inaugurate Kashi Corridor Project 2. T.N. seeks time for farmers to insure samba, thaladi crop 3. Norovirus: Kerala asks people to be vigilant 4. Minorities panel issues notice to U.P. DGP on ‘custodial death’ G. Tidbits 1. Permanent commission for 11 women Army officers H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
B. GS 2 Related
1. MDRF opens centre to study monogenic diabetes
Context:
A Centre for Monogenic Diabetes has been established by the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF).
Details:
- Monogenic diabetes is a kind of diabetes caused by a single gene mutation.
- Monogenic diabetes comes in a variety of types.
- Maturity onset diabetes of the young (MODY) and neonatal diabetes are the two most frequent types.
Maturity Onset diabetes of the young (MODY)
- MODY affects children and adolescents. It also affects the diabetes history of three or more generations.
- MODY is divided into various kinds, several of which may be managed with tablets.
- Insulin injections can be stopped in these instances, and the pills frequently function better than insulin.
Sanger Sequencing
- Sanger sequencing will be used for diagnostics of Monogenic Diabetes.
- Sanger sequencing is a ‘first generation’ DNA sequencing technique that is widely used in clinical genomics.
- It enables clinicians to decipher the human DNA code and determine how certain sequence differences affect the likelihood of diseases like monogenic diabetes.
1. ‘Remote education was inaccessible to most children’
Context:
Recently, ICRIER and LIRNEAsia issued a national sample survey on education during the pandemic.
Details:
- In India, just 20% of school-aged children have access to distant education.
- At least one child had dropped out of school in 38 percent of the homes.
- During the school closure, 80% of youngsters aged 5 to 18 did not get any educational services.
- Only 55 percent of those who got instruction had access to live online sessions, while 68 percent had access to audio or video lectures that had been recorded.
C. GS 3 Related
Category: ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY
1. Negotiators at COP26 brainstorm overdraft
Context:
The UN Climate Change Conference is planning to hold the 27th Conference of Parties of 2022 in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, and the 28th edition of 2023 in the United Arab Emirates.
Details:
- The Conference of Parties 26 aims to provide direction for the Paris Agreement’s implementation.
- As per the Paris Agreement, countries were urged to take steps to limit temperatures from increasing beyond 2 degrees Celsius by the turn of the century, and to “pursue efforts to maintain it” below 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Failed Promises of the Developed Countries:
- Developing nations such as India and China are pressuring the West to accept that they have failed to deliver on previous commitments to provide $100 billion per year till 2020.
- Developed nations have agreed to deliver by 2023-24, while India and a number of other low-income and developing countries have asked for funding after that date.
Read more on this issue covered in Nov 3rd, 2021 CNA.
1. Small investors, salaried can now buy govt. bonds easily: PM
Context:
Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicked off two Reserve Bank of India (RBI) initiatives.
Details:
- The two Reserve Bank of India (RBI) initiatives are:
- To make it easier for small investors to directly invest in government securities.
- To provide a simpler single-window redressal mechanism for customers of RBI-regulated entities such as banks, finance companies and payment service providers.
- Three existing ombudsman schemes of the RBI for banking, non-banking financial companies and digital transactions will be integrated.
Benefits:
- It will provide cost-free redress of customer complaints involving deficiency in services.
- These schemes will make it easier for small investors to invest in a safe and simple manner in government securities.
- An integrated ombudsman would serve as a facility where all grievances of the people can be redressed.
Category: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
1. ‘Cyber Crime went up by 500% during pandemic’
Context:
Recently, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) has emphasised the necessity for a national framework to combat the growth in cyberattacks in the country.
Details:
Why Is There a Need for Cybersecurity?
- The country is in dire need of a data protection law, with cybercriminals increasingly weaponising data as a tool against national security in the post-pandemic era.
- In the post-pandemic period, hackers are increasingly weaponizing data as a tactic against national security.
- The rise of digital payments has also increased complex cybercrime. The government urgently needs data protection legislation.
- The sensitive information and fragmented approach that prevailed in handling the threat is becoming prime targets for cyber attacks.
- There are emerging threats from new technologies such as drones, ransomware, Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
- The role of nation-states in such cyberattacks also needs to be considered.
- The lockdown has witnessed a deeper adoption of interconnected devices and hybrid work environments. It has increased our dependence on technology, rendering us digitally more vulnerable than ever before.
What are the Concerns of Cyber Security?
- The Information Technology Act, 2000 is not equipped to consider new-age changes in the mode of functioning of businesses and modus operandi of crimes in cyberspace.
- The delay in passing the Personal Data Protection Bill states the inefficiency of the government to deal with cybersecurity and cybercrimes.
- Data is the new goldmine for any organisation, especially for the bad elements that lurk in the dark web.
- With cybercriminals and inimical actors increasingly using information to threaten national security, the matter is of serious concern.
Additional Information:
Cybercrime:
- Any offenses committed against individuals or groups of individuals to harm the reputation or cause physical or mental trauma through electronic means can be defined as Cybercrime.
- The threat to cyberspace gives rise to the need for cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity law in India
- The Information Technology Act (IT Act) 2000 covers different types of crimes under cyber law in India.
- In light of the laws on cybercrime, the IT Act, 2000 went through amendments under the Indian Penal Code in the year 2008.
- They were enforced at the beginning of 2009 to strengthen the cybersecurity laws.
D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
1. NAM at 60 marks an age of Indian alignment
Context
- 60th anniversary of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and Nehru’s contributions to the field of foreign affairs.
Background
- The Congress of Vienna (1814–1815) was an international diplomatic conference to reconstruct the European political order after the downfall of the French Emperor Napoleon I.
- It recognized the concept of not aligning a country’s policy with others.
- In 1946, when Nehru formed the national government, he stated, “we propose… to keep away from the power politics of groups aligned against one another… it is for One World that free India will work.”
- The Cold War which was all about power rivalries, military alliance, balance of power and ideological conflict was opposed by Nehru. NAM thus became a cost-effective means of promoting India’s diplomatic presence and the best means of securing economic assistance from abroad.
NAM
- Non-alignment was about retaining the independence of judgment and freedom of political action.
Achievements of NAM
- The Geneva Conference of 1954 was an international meeting in Geneva, Switzerland involving multiple countries to negotiate on Korean War and the First Indochina War.
- India played a significant role at the conference.
- India was against colonialism and racism, NAM further helped many African states to achieve independence after 1960.
- During the 1970s and 1980s, the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries played a key role in the struggle for the establishment of a new international economic order that allowed all the peoples of the world to make use of their wealth and natural resources and provided a wide platform for a fundamental change in international economic relations and the economic emancipation of the countries of the South.
- It advanced the process of democratization of international relations.
NAM’s failures
- One of the principles of NAM was to respect sovereign domestic jurisdiction.
- This had created many alignments among the countries, lack of uniform structure, leading to ignoring some of the human rights violations committed by member countries.
- NAM could not stop the arms race and bring an end to Nuclear Proliferation.
- It could not prevent regional confrontations.
- Other failures were lack of collective action and collective self-reliance, and the non-establishment of an equitable international economic or information order.
Phases of NAM
- Phase 1
- The first phase of Indian foreign policy lasted from independence in 1947 to the end of the Second Indo-Pakistani (Kashmir) War in 1965.
- India’s first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru was the key political figure of this period.
- Phase 2
- In 1964 Jawaharlal Nehru died and his daughter Indira Gandhi took office as prime minister.
- Indira Gandhi leaned towards the Soviet Union as a key international partner and in doing so distanced herself even further from the USA.
- Phase III: After the Cold War
- The end of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union changed the environment of India’s foreign policy drastically.
- On a global scale, India moved closer to Washington’s side.
Currently, India is inclined to greater alignment with the United States whether under the nebulous rubric of the Indo-Pacific or otherwise.
Conclusion
Every international organisation has a shelf life, though many survive for years in semi-neglect.
- The League of Nations was given the coup de grâce after seven years of inactivity.
- The Commonwealth will last only as long as the British find it useful.
- Looks like Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa (BRICS) has no future given the state of India-China relations.
- The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) has faded into oblivion.
The call for the dissolution of the Non-Aligned Movement gained currency with the end of the Cold War. However, in order to continue and be effective, the organization should be reshaped and reformed to address global challenges.
1. The enduring relevance of Nehru’s legacy
Reference:
Biography of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru
F. Prelims Facts
1. PM to inaugurate Kashi Corridor Project
Context:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor Project.
Details:
- The Kashi Corridor project is significant for Uttar Pradesh’s cultural politics.
- The project incorporates the idea of Ahalya Bai Holkar, the Holkar queen of Indore, who built a sequence of temples that lead up to the Ganga ghat.
- Kashi Corridor Project comprises the following components:
- A 320-meter-long and 20-meter-wide paved pathway that connects the temple to the ghats.
- A museum, a library, a pilgrim facilitation centre, and a salvation home.
Ahilyabai Holkar
- At the early age of eight, Ahilyabai got married to Khanderao Holkar in 1733.
- In the battle of Kumbher in 1754, her husband was killed, leaving her a widow at the age of 29.
- After that, for the sake of the administration of the kingdom and the lives of her people, she resolved to take matters into her own hands.
- In 1767, she assumed the crown and became the ruler of Indore.
- In the 18th century, Ahilyabai Holkar supported industrialization while spreading the concept of dharma.
Development Work by Ahilyabai Holkar
- Ahilyabai is known for constructing multiple forts and roads in the Malwa area, as well as supporting festivals and donating to various Hindu temples.
- Her benevolence was reflected in the construction of temples, ghats, wells, tanks, and rest houses that spanned the length of the nation.
- In the capital of her kingdom, Maheshwar, the queen also built a textile industry.
2. T.N. seeks time for farmers to insure samba, thaladi crop
Context:
The Tamil Nadu government has asked the Union government to extend the deadline for paying premiums for samba or thaladi paddy crop insurance.
Details:
Samba
- Samba rice is a kind of rice that is cultivated in Tamil Nadu, India, and Sri Lanka.
- It features a short ovular grain compared to basmati rice’s large grain.
- Samba rice has a peculiar flavour that might be characterised as more “starchy” or “corny.”
- The mallas of India harvest all of the Samba rice grain locally.
- The most costly sub-variety, Seeraga Samba, has the tiniest grain.
Thaladi
- The sowing season for Thaladi runs from October through November.
- The crop lasts between 115 and 120 days.
- Varieties with a medium and long duration are seeded.
- Thanjavur, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Tiruchirapalli, Perambalur, and Karur are the districts where cultivation takes place.
3. Norovirus: Kerala asks people to be vigilant
Context:
Recently, Norovirus cases were confirmed in the Wayanad district of Kerala.
Details:
What is Norovirus?
- Norovirus causes gastrointestinal sickness, including stomach and gut lining irritation, severe vomiting, and diarrhoea.
- Norovirus has little effect on healthy people, but it can be dangerous in small children, the elderly, and persons with comorbid conditions.
- Norovirus is easily spread by coming into close contact with sick persons or touching contaminated surfaces.
- Symptoms of Norovirus: Norovirus symptoms include diarrhoea, stomach discomfort, vomiting, nausea, a high fever, headache, and body pains.
Measures to be taken to fight Norovirus:
- Preventive activities, including super chlorination.
- Drinking water sources needed to be hygienic.
- Proper prevention and treatment of the disease.
- Everyone should be aware of the disease and its means of prevention.
- Holding an awareness class as part of preventive measures.
4. Minorities panel issues notice to U.P. DGP on ‘custodial death’
Context:
- The National Commission for Minorities has sent a notice to the UP DGP, requesting a full report on Altaf’s death in police custody in Kasganj.
- The panel has also asked the Tripura government for an explanation over recent assaults on mosques in the state.
Details:
National Commission for Minorities
- The National Commission for Minorities, formerly known as the Minorities Commission, is a statutory authority.
- The Minorities Commission (a non-statutory organisation) was renamed the National Commission for Minorities when the National Commission for Minorities Act 1992 was passed.
- National Commission for Minorities comprises seven members which include:
- A chairperson
- A vice-chairperson
- 5 members
- Each member of the commission holds the office for three years from the date of assumption of the office.
G. Tidbits
1. Permanent commission for 11 women Army officers
- Recently, the Union Government agreed to grant permanent commission (PC) to 11 women Army officers who met the eligibility criteria after the Supreme Court threatened to initiate contempt proceedings.
Read more on this issue covered in Aug 20th, 2021 CNA.
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q1. With respect to Norovirus, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- It is a form of a virus that causes encephalitis.
- Wild animals typically thought to be carriers include raccoons, bats and foxes.
Options:
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both
- None
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation:
- Norovirus is a form of a virus that causes gastrointestinal sickness, including stomach and gut lining irritation, severe vomiting, and diarrhoea. Hence Statement 1 is incorrect.
- Norovirus has little effect on healthy people, but it can be dangerous in small children, the elderly, and persons with comorbid conditions.
- Norovirus is easily spread by coming into close contact with sick persons or touching contaminated surfaces. (Not through Wild Animals). Hence Statement 2 is incorrect.
Q2. Consider the following statements:
- The council of ministers shall be collectively responsible to the Governor.
- The salaries and allowances of the ministers shall be determined by a committee appointed by the Chief Minister, Leader of Opposition and a cabinet minister selected by the Chief Minister.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both
- None
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation:
- According to Article 164, the ministers are collectively responsible to the state legislature. (Not Governor). This means that all the ministers own joint responsibility to the legislative assembly for all their acts of omission and commission. Hence Statement 1 is incorrect.
- The salaries and allowances of the ministers are decided by the respective state legislatures in the country as per Article 164 of the Indian Constitution. It varies from one state to another. Hence Statement 2 is incorrect.
Q3. Which amongst the following statements is the best description of Tallinn Manual?
- It is a report which gives insights about climate change, its causes, potential impacts and response options
- It provides guidelines regarding the use of drugs to treat COVID-19
- It is an academic, non-binding study on how international law applies to cyber conflicts and cyber-warfare
- None of the above
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:
- The Tallinn Manual is an academic, non-binding study on how international law applies to cyber conflicts and cyber warfare.
- The Tallinn Manual has long been the flagship research initiative of the Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence (CCDCOE).
- The Tallinn Manual has become an influential resource for legal advisers and policy experts dealing with cyber issues.
- Hence Option C is Correct.
Q4.Which of the following Rivers are west flowing?
- Narmada
- Mahi
- Sabarmati
- Luni
- Tapi
- Tawa
- Sharavati
Options:
- 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
- 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 only
- 1, 2, 3, 5 and 7 only
- 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation:
- Narmada originates from the Maikal range near Amarkantak and it is a west flowing river.
- Mahi river originates from the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh and flows West through Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.
- Sabarmati is a west-flowing river through Rajasthan and Gujarat. It originates from Tepur in the Udaipur district of Rajasthan.
- Luni is also known as the Sagarmati. It originates from the Western slopes of the Aravalli ranges near Ajmer.
- Tapi originates from the Multai reserve forest and flows west through the states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.
- Tawa rises from the Satpura Range of Betul in MP and flows to the west.
- Sharavati is an important river in the state of Karnataka flowing towards the west. The Sharavati River originates from the Shimoga district of Karnataka.
- Hence Option D is Correct.
Q5. Out of the following statements, choose the one that brings out the principle underlying the Cabinet form of Government: [UPSC 2017]
- An arrangement for minimizing the criticism against the Government whose responsibilities are complex and hard to carry out to the satisfaction of all.
- A mechanism for speeding up the activities of the Government whose responsibilities are increasing day by day.
- A mechanism of parliamentary democracy for ensuring collective responsibility of the Government to the people.
- A device for strengthening the hands of the head of the Government whose hold over the people is in a state of decline.
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:
- Cabinet Government establishes the executive’s joint accountability to the legislature. The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the House of People. Hence Statement 3 is correct.
- Parliamentary democracy provides an indirect means for assuring the Government’s collective duty to the people.
- Parliament enforces the Executive’s accountability to itself and, in the end, to the people, through these authorities.
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- Do you agree with the government’s argument that gender equality shouldn’t apply to permanent commissions for women in the army? Give arguments to support your answer. (250 words; 15 marks) [GS-2, Governance]
- India has lost a big opportunity to take the centre stage in world affairs by not utilizing the NAM platform that it built. Suggest measures to change this. (250 words; 15 marks) [GS-2, India’s foreign policy]
Read the previous CNA here.
CNA 13 Nov 2021:- Download PDF Here
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