CNA 28 Nov 2022:- Download PDF Here
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. GS 1 Related B. GS 2 Related GOVERNANCE 1. Same-sex marriage C. GS 3 Related D. GS 4 Related E. Editorials SOCIETY 1. It’s time to discuss depopulation INDIAN POLITY 1. Shifts unexplained F. Prelims Facts 1. Bluebugging 2. Republic Day Celebrations G. Tidbits 1. Austra Hind 22 2. Khalanga Mela 3. UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
A. GS 1 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
B. GS 2 Related
Syllabus: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
Mains: Role played by the judiciary in protecting the rights of the LGBT community.
Context: Supreme Court notice to Centre on plea to recognise same-sex marriage.
Introduction:
- Recently, a Supreme Court Bench led by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud , issued notices to the Centre and the Attorney General of India, seeking their response to two petitions filed to allow solemnisation of same-sex marriage under the Special Marriage Act (SMA) 1954.
- The non-recognition of same-sex marriage amounted to discrimination that struck at the root of dignity and self-fulfillment of LGBTQ+ couples.
- In the NALSA vs Union of India judgment (2014), the Court had said that non-binary individuals were protected under the Constitution and fundamental rights such as equality, non-discrimination, life, freedom and so on could not be restricted to those who were biologically male or female.
Arguments of the petitioners:
- The SMA provides a civil form of marriage for couples who cannot marry under their personal law. The Act is ultra vires the Constitution to the extent it discriminates between same-sex couples and opposite sex couples, denying same-sex couples both legal rights as well as the social recognition and status that flows from marriage.
- The petitioners emphasised that the SMA “ought to apply to a marriage between any two persons, regardless of their gender identity and sexual orientation”. They seek to recognise same-sex marriage in relation to this Act and not personal laws.
- The Act should grant same sex couple the same protection it allowed inter-caste and inter-faith couples who want to marry.
- There are currently a total of nine petitions pending before the High Court of Delhi and Kerala, seeking to recognise same-sex marriages under Acts such as the SMA, the Foreign Marriage Act and codified personal laws.
- Recently, the Supreme Court transferred the various pending issues before High Courts to itself.
Government’s stand on the issue:
- In 2021, While responding to the pleas seeking recognition of same-sex marriages in the Delhi High Court, Solicitor General for the Centre had said that as per the law, marriage was permissible between a “biological man” and “biological woman”.
- The Centre had said that “The acceptance of the institution of marriage between two individuals of the same gender is neither recognised nor accepted in any uncodified personal laws or any codified statutory laws”.
Supreme Court’s views on Same Sex Marriages:
- Supreme Court in Shafin Jahan v. Asokan K.M. and others 2018 case held that the right to marry a person of one’s choice is integral to Article 21 of the Constitution.
- The Supreme Court in Navjet Singh Johar and others v. Union of India 2018 case held that members of the LGBTQ community “are entitled, as all other citizens, to the full range of constitutional rights including the liberties protected by the Constitution” and are entitled to equal citizenship and “equal protection of law”.
- The Supreme Court had decriminalised homosexuality in 2018, urging the LGBTQ+ community to forgive history for their “brutal” suppression.
- A five-judge Constitution Bench had unanimously held that criminalisation of private consensual sexual conduct between adults of the same sex under Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code was clearly unconstitutional.
- Section 377 punished homosexuality with a 10-year imprisonment.
- A five-judge Constitution Bench had unanimously held that criminalisation of private consensual sexual conduct between adults of the same sex under Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code was clearly unconstitutional.
Global Scenario:
- The Netherlands was the first country in 2001 to legalise same-sex marriage by amending one line in its civil marriage law.
- Globally 32 countries have legalised same-sex marriages, some through legislation while others through judicial pronouncements.
- Many countries first recognised same-sex civil unions as the escalatory step to recognise homosexual marriage.
- Civil unions are similar arrangements as marriages which provide legal recognition of unmarried couples of the same or opposite sex in order to grant them some of the rights that come with marriage — such as inheritance, medical benefits, employee benefits to spouses, managing joint taxes and finances, and in some cases even adoption.
- In some countries, the decriminalisation of homosexuality was not followed for years by the recognition of same-sex marriage, for instance, in the U.S. the former happened in 2003 while the latter in 2015.
- Homosexuality is considered as a heinous offence for more than 70 nations, it is also subject to execution in various countries including Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, United Arab and Yemen and to lifetime incarceration in some.
Nut Graf: Supreme Court have issued notice to Centre on several pleas to recognise same-sex marriage. The recognition of same-sex marriage can be seen as the continuation of the Navtej Singh Johar judgment of 2018 which decriminalised homosexuality and the Justice K.S.Puttaswamy case of 2017, affirming the Right to Privacy as a fundamental right.
C. GS 3 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
D. GS 4 Related
Nothing here for today!!!
E. Editorials
1. It’s time to discuss depopulation
Syllabus: Population and related issues.
Mains: De-population and associated challenges.
Context: World population reached Eight Billion and the threat of de-population in certain parts of India.
Details:
- India is set to surpass China as the world’s most populous country by 2023.
- China’s population has started to decline, whereas India’s population is expected to grow further over the next Forty years.
- However, certain parts of India are facing the threat of de-population and there is a complete lack of preparedness to deal with it.
For more information on India’s demographics, read here: Demographics of India UPSC Exam Preparation
Background Details:
- The world’s population is expected to grow until 2086.
- According to the United Nations estimate, the population of India will begin to decline in 2063. It would have reached around 1.7 billion by that time. This has raised alarmist calls for family size restrictions.
- On the other hand, countries that are experiencing falling fertility rates and are reaching the inflection point of population declines like Japan and South Korea are deliberating on reversing the trend.
- Some key aspects that are usually missed while discussing de-population are:
- Equitable sharing of housework
- Subsidized childcare accessibility that allows women to have both family and career
- Lowered immigration barriers to working-age people from countries that have not begun with population decline
For more information on total fertility rates, read here: Total Fertility Rate [UPSC Notes]
Fertility in India:
- Due to rising income levels and increased female access to education and healthcare, fertility rates in India are falling along the expected lines.
- The total fertility rate of India has reached below the replacement rate of fertility. Moreover, in some parts, they are below the replacement rate for a long time and are at the cusp of real declines. For instance, Kerala and Tamil Nadu reached the replacement rate of fertility in 1998 and 2000 respectively.
- Furthermore, even in States with relatively high fertility, several cities have been at or below the replacement rate for almost a decade.
- According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS), India’s urban fertility rate in the year 2019-21 was 1.6. This places it next to the United Kingdom(U.K.).
- It is expected that Tamil Nadu and Kerala will see their first absolute decline in the working-age population in the next four years.
- It should be noted that the median Tamilian was 10 years older than the median Bihari in 2011. They will be separated by over 12 years in 2036, where the median Tamilian will be above 40 years.
- This implies that the working-age population of the future will skew northwards.
- As per 2011 data, both States(Kerala and Tamil Nadu) had negative net migration rates. This means that they sent out more migrants than they received.
Associated Challenges:
- Skewed Sex Ratio: According to the latest round of NFHS, families with at least one son are less likely to want more children than families with just one daughter.
- Education: There is a stark difference between Northern and Southern India in basic literacy and higher education (including technical education). This implies that workers from the southern states are not replaceable.
- Sharp anti-muslim tone: Even though fertility rates between Hindus and Muslims are converging, there is a sharp anti-muslim tone in population conversation.
Related Links: Population and Associated Issues – Trends & Projections
Nut Graf: Though India is set to become the most populous country in the world, there exists a threat of de-population in some parts, particularly in southern states. The need of the hour is serious deliberations by demographers and policy experts about the decreasing workforce and aging population.
Syllabus: Indian Judiciary.
Mains: Transfer of High Court Judges.
Prelims: Collegium system.
Context: Recent rounds of transfer of High Court Judges.
Background Details:
- A recent round of transfers of High Court Judges (3 from Telangana and 2 each from Madras and Andhra Pradesh) has once again brought the controversial issue of the opaque functioning of the collegium system to the fore.
- The controversy flared up due to two factions proposing different views on the transfer of a Gujarat High Court Judge. The perception is that the Collegium heeds the demand made by one set of lawyers, but ignores that of another group.
- For the exchange of talent across the country and the prevention of local cliques in the judiciary, the transfer of judges is required. But the transfers have always been seen as a potential threat to judicial independence.
- According to the Memorandum of Procedure, a judge’s consent is not required to effect a transfer.
- As per the current norms, all transfers should be in the public interest, that is, for better administration of justice throughout the country. The norms also state that the personal factors of the judge like his/her preference of places should also be considered.
- The reason for shifting a puisne judge without being made a Chief Justice is rarely explained. It sets off speculation that the reasons are either allegations against the judge or unease among the government due to his/her judicial order.
- It is well known that the transfers should not be used as a punitive measure.
For more information on High Courts, read here: High Court Of India – History, Jurisdiction, Constitution & Salary (UPSC Indian Polity Notes)
Related Link: Supreme Court Judge – Appointment and Removal – UPSC Indian Polity
Nut Graf: The transfer of judges has once again brought to the limelight the concerns associated with the functioning of the collegium system. A complete review of the provisions for the transfer of High Court judges is the need of the hour to maintain both the trust and independence of the judiciary.
F. Prelims Facts
1. Bluebugging
Syllabus: GS03-Science and Technology
Prelims: Cyber Attacks
What is bluebugging?
- It is a form of hacking that lets attackers access a device through its discoverable Bluetooth connection.
- Once a device or phone is bluebugged, a hacker can listen to the calls, read and send messages and steal and modify contacts.
- Bluebugging attacks work by exploiting Bluetooth-enabled devices.
- Once a connection is established, hackers can use brute force attacks to bypass authentication. They can install malware in the compromised device to gain unauthorised access to it.
- Once hacked, the attacker can make and listen to calls, read and send messages, and modify or steal your contacts.
- Any Bluetooth-enabled device including wireless earbuds are susceptible to such hacks.
- Bluebugging can happen whenever a Bluetooth enabled device is within a 10-metre radius of the hacker. Hackers can also use booster antennas to widen the attack range.
- Apps that enable users to connect to their TWS (True Wireless Stereo) devices or earbuds can record conversations.
How can one prevent bluebugging?
- Turning off Bluetooth and disconnecting paired Bluetooth devices when not in use,
- Updating the device’s system software to the latest version,
- Limited use of public Wi-Fi and
- Using VPN as an additional security measure.
- Monitor data usage for sudden spikes.
Read more on Cyber Security
Syllabus: Current events of national and international importance.
Prelims: Republic Day Guests
Key Details:
- According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Egyptian President Abdel Fateh el-Sisi will be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations in January 2023.
- This is the first time that the President of the Arab Republic of Egypt will be the Chief Guest at Republic Day.
- Republic Day is celebrated every year on 26th January to commemorate the adoption of the Indian Constitution, which came into effect on this day in 1950.
- On 26 January 1950, Indonesian President Sukarno was the first Chief guest on the very first Republic Day parade of India.
Image Source: The Hindu
India and Egypt:
- India and Egypt share close political understanding based on a long history of contacts and cooperation in bilateral, regional, and global issues.
- The year 2022 is of particular significance since it marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Egypt.
- Egypt and India were founding members of the movement for non-alignment and Egyptian leaders have traditionally maintained cordial ties with New Delhi.
- Mr. Sisi attended the India Africa Forum Summit along with other heads of states and governments of Africa from October 26 to 29 in 2015.
- In July 2022, Egypt signed a Memorandum of Understanding with India’s ReNew Power for $8 billion to build a clean hydrogen facility in the Suez Canal Economic Zone.
Read more on India-Egypt Relations
G. Tidbits
- The joint military exercise between armies of Australia and India ‘Austra Hind-22’ recently began at Rajasthan’s Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, with a focus on peacekeeping operations under the UN mandate.
- The exercise aims to build positive military ties, imbibe each other’s best practices and promote the ability to operate together.
- It is the first exercise under ‘Austra Hind’ with the participation of all arms and services contingent from armies of both nations.
- It will be a yearly event conducted alternatively in India and Australia.
- The joint exercise, besides promoting understanding and interoperability between the two armies, will further help in strengthening ties between India and Australia.
Read more on Joint Military Exercises of Indian Army
- Gorkhas recently celebrated the annual ‘Khalanga mela’ in Dehradun recently.
- The fair is organised every year in remembrance of the Gorkha warriors who fought bravely against the British in the battle of Nalapani on the outskirts of in 1814.
- In this battle, the British 3rd Infantry division comprising 3,500 soldiers with heavy artillery under the command of Major General Robert Gillespie faced stiff resistance from Gorkha general Balbhadra Singh Thapa and his band of 600 soldiers who defended the Khalanga fort for over six weeks without food or water.
3. UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya was conferred with the ‘Award of Excellence’ at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation-2022 recently.
- The museum is a part of the Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai’s world heritage property.
- It was established as the Prince of Wales Museum of Western India in 1922.
- Of the 13 projects from six countries – Afghanistan, China, India, Iran, Nepal and Thailand – four from India were awarded
- Award of Excellence – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
- Award of Distinction – Stepwells of Golconda, Hyderabad
- Award of Merit – Domakonda Fort, Telangana, and Byculla Station, Mumbai
H. UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. The popular ‘Khalanga Mela’ is held annually at - (Level-Moderate)
- Gangtok
- Imphal
- Dehradun
- Aizawl
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:
- The annual Khalanga Mela is held with great enthusiasm at the Khalanga War Memorial in Dehradun.
- The fair is organised every year in remembrance of the Gorkha warriors who fought bravely against the British in the battle of Nalapani on the outskirts of in 1814.
- It has been described as the only monument in the history of warfare to have been erected by a victorious army for its adversaries, as the British were reportedly impressed with the valour of the Gorkhas.
2. Which of the following statements are correct? (Level-Easy)
- The China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) is a foreign aid agency of the People’s Republic of China.
- It recently hosted the ‘China-Indian Ocean Region Forum’ with 19 countries from the region including India.
Options:
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: a
Explanation:
- Statement 01 is correct, The China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA); is a foreign aid agency of the People’s Republic of China.
- It is directly subordinate to the State Council. It was created to “achieve better coordination and greater impact” of China’s aid programs, particularly in support of the Belt and Road Initiative.
- Statement 02 is incorrect, It recently hosted the ‘China-Indian Ocean Region Forum’ with representatives from 19 countries in the region, except for India.
3. The construction of Rooppur nuclear power plant in Bangladesh is being led by - (Level-Easy)
- Russia and Ukraine
- Russia and China
- Russia and India
- Russia and Pakistan
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: c
Explanation:
- The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant is being constructed at Rooppur, on the bank of the river Padma, in Bangladesh. It will be the country’s first nuclear power plant, and the first of the two unit is expected to go into operation in 2024.
- IN 2018, India, Bangladesh and Russia signed a tripartite memorandum of understanding (MoU) for cooperation in the construction of the Rooppur nuclear power plant in Bangladesh.
4. Which of the following is a joint military exercise between India & Malaysia? (Level-Moderate)
- Mitra Shakti
- Harimau Shakti
- Surya Kiran
- Garuda Shakti
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: b
Explanation:
- India – Malaysia joint military Exercise “Harimau Shakti -2022” commenced at Pulai, Kluang, Malaysia recently.
- Exercise HARIMAU SHAKTI is an annual training event between the Indian and Malaysian Army which has been conducted since 2012.
- “Exercise HARIMAU SHAKTI” will enhance the level of defence co-operation between Indian Army and the Malaysian Army, which in turn will further foster the bilateral relations between the two nations.
5. Which one of the following statements best describes the role of B cells and T cells in the human body?(CSE-PYQ-2022) (Level-Easy)
- They protect the body from environmental allergens.
- They alleviate the body’s pain and inflammation.
- They act as immunosuppressants in the body.
- They protect the body from diseases caused by pathogens.
CHECK ANSWERS:-
Answer: d
Explanation:
- B cells and T cells are the white blood cells of the immune system that are responsible for adaptive immune response in an organism. They protect the body from diseases caused by pathogens.
Read more on Difference between T cells and B cells
I. UPSC Mains Practice Questions
- The procedure of transfer of High Court judges in India is marred with controversy that doesn’t augur well for the judiciary’s reputation. Discuss. (250 words; 15 marks) (GS-2; Polity)
- A declining population trend has its own set of issues, especially in certain Indian states. Analyze. (250 words; 15 marks) (GS-1; Society)
Read the previous CNA here.
CNA 28 Nov 2022:- Download PDF Here
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