In today’s daily current affairs briefing for UPSC aspirants, we explore the latest developments that hold relevance for the upcoming civil services examination. Our focus today includes a critical analysis of recent policy changes, international affairs, and national developments, all of which play a pivotal role in shaping the socio-political and economic landscape of India. Stay informed and stay ahead in your UPSC preparations with our daily current affairs updates, as we provide you with concise, well-researched insights to help you connect the dots between contemporary events and the broader canvas of the civil services syllabus.
Health Ministry’s new Treatment Regimen for Leprosy
Tag: GS-3 Health
In News:
The Central government has sanctioned a novel treatment regimen for leprosy with the goal of halting its transmission at the sub-national level by 2027, surpassing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals by three years.
Understanding Leprosy: Causes and Effects
Hansen’s Disease Overview
- Causative Agent and Affected Areas
- Infection caused by Mycobacterium leprae.
- Affects nerves, skin, eyes, and nasal mucosa.
- Symptoms and Consequences
- Manifests as skin ulcers, nerve damage, and muscle weakness.
- Untreated cases may lead to severe disfigurement and disability.
- Importance of Early Treatment
- Early intervention prevents additional tissue damage.
- Halts the spread of the disease.
Transmission of Leprosy: Myths and Facts
- Droplet Transmission
- Spread through droplets from the nose and mouth.
- Prolonged, close contact needed for transmission.
- Misconceptions
- Not transmitted through casual contact like handshakes or hugging.
- Disease transmission ceases with the initiation of treatment.
Global Landscape of Leprosy
- Historical Context
- One of the oldest diseases, dating back to 600 B.C.
- A Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) prevalent in 120+ countries.
- Global Statistics (2022)
- 182 countries reported 1,65,459 existing cases and 1,74,087 new cases.
- NTDs encompass various health issues with significant social and economic consequences.
Leprosy in India: Challenges and Efforts
- Post-Declaration Challenges
- Despite India being declared “Leprosy Eliminated” in 2005, it still accounts for 52% of global new cases.
- High-Risk Districts
- Certain states and union territories have districts yet to achieve leprosy elimination targets (82 districts).
- National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP)
- Centrally sponsored scheme under the National Health Mission (NHM).
- Aims to reduce Prevalence Rate to less than 1/10,000 population at the district level.
- Key Objectives of NLEP
- Zero Grade II Disability rate per million population at the district level.
- Eliminate Grade II Disability among new cases.
- Achieve zero child leprosy cases.
- Awareness Initiatives
- Leprosy Case Detections Campaign (LCDC) in high endemic districts.
- Focused Leprosy Campaign (FLC) in low endemic districts.
- Special plans for Hard-to-Reach areas.
- ASHA Based Surveillance for Leprosy Suspects (ABSULS).
- Sparsh Leprosy Awareness Campaign on January 30th annually.
- Active Case Detection and Surveillance in both rural and urban areas.
Source: TH
Expansion of the jurisdiction of BSF
Tag: GS-3 Defence and Security
In News:
The Supreme Court is scheduled to adjudicate the dispute concerning the extension of the Border Security Force (BSF) jurisdiction in Punjab.
Border Security Force (BSF): Safeguarding India’s Borders
About BSF
- Formation and Purpose
- Established in December 1965 as one of India’s Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).
- Originated after the 1965 War to ensure border security.
- Distinct Capabilities
- The only CAPF with its Water Wing, Air Wing, and ancillary units.
- Headquarters located in New Delhi, operating under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
- Operational Responsibilities
- Manages 6,386.36 km of International Border with Pakistan and Bangladesh.
- Ensures security during peace and war times.
BSF Operations
- Peace Time Role
- Prevents trans-border crimes and unauthorized entries.
- Combats smuggling and illegal activities.
- War Time Role
- Safeguards vital installations, particularly airfields.
- Engages in limited aggressive actions against enemy forces under the overall Armed Forces plan.
- Assists in controlling refugees.
- Overseas Deployment
- Contributes personnel for UN Missions.
- Plays a crucial role in securing the Kartarpur Corridor.
- Additional Roles
- Deployed on the Line of Control (LoC) in J&K under the Army’s operational control.
- Assists in natural disaster/calamity situations, as witnessed in events like the Kashmir flood (2014) and Kerala flood (2018).
Powers and Jurisdiction
- Arrest, Search, and Seize Authority
- Empowered under various laws, including the Criminal Procedure Code, Passports Act 1967, Passport (Entry into India) Act 1920, and the NDPS Act.
- BSF’s authority extends within a specified jurisdiction.
Expansion of Jurisdiction: Background and Rationale
- Legal Basis for Expansion
- Section 139 of the Border Security Force Act, 1968, grants the Centre authority to determine the area and extent of BSF’s operational mandate.
- Notification and Parliamentary Oversight
- Orders issued under Section 139 must be presented before both houses of Parliament.
- The October 2021 notification expanded the jurisdiction to 50 kilometers from the border.
- Operational Efficiency and Countermeasures
- Aimed at enhancing efficiency and curbing smuggling.
- Addresses challenges such as drug, arms, cattle, and fake currency smuggling.
- Addressing Security Challenges
- Responds to security threats posed by drones and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.
- Ensures uniform BSF jurisdiction across states, aligning with the 50-kilometer limit in Rajasthan.
- Uniform Jurisdiction Across States
- The notification brings uniformity to BSF’s jurisdiction, addressing variations in different states.
- Notably, it reduced the jurisdiction in Gujarat from 80 km to 50 km.
Source: IE
Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace
Tag: GS-1 Art and Culture
In News:
The 12th General Assembly of the Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace (ABCP), a voluntary mass movement of Buddhists in Asia, was recently convened in New Delhi.
Major Highlights of the 12th General Assembly of ABCP
Theme: “ABCP – The Buddhist Voice of Global South”
- India’s Commitment to Buddha’s Legacy
- India showcased its dedication to Buddha’s principles.
- Recognition of India’s proactive role in developing the Buddhist circuit and establishing the India International Centre for Buddhist Culture.
- Constitutional Recognition of Buddha’s Influence
- Emphasis on the portrayal of Lord Buddha in the Indian Constitution’s artwork.
- Specific focus on Part V, highlighting Buddha’s depiction in the section on Union governance.
Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace (ABCP): An Overview
- ABCP’s Inception and Collaborative Efforts
- Founded in 1970 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
- Collaboration of Buddhist dignitaries from various countries.
- Headquarters at Gandanthegchenling Monastery in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
- ABCP’s Aims
- Unifying Buddhists for universal peace, harmony, and cooperation.
- Promoting economic and social advancement, justice, and human dignity.
- Disseminating Buddhist culture, tradition, and heritage.
Buddhist Teachings and Principles of Good Governance
- Right View in Policymaking
- Buddha’s emphasis on Right View aligns with governance principles of transparency and evidence-based decision-making.
- Example: Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness index.
- Right Conduct in Leadership
- Interpretation of Buddha’s Five Precepts as ethical guidelines for public officials.
- Emphasis on non-violence, non-stealing, non-lying, non-sexual misconduct, and non-intoxication.
- Compassionate Governance
- Buddha’s teaching of compassion guiding leaders to consider the needs of all citizens.
- Examples: Universal healthcare and fair taxation policies.
- Dialogue and Nonviolent Conflict Resolution
- Buddha’s emphasis on Right Speech and Right Action for respectful communication.
- Applicability in international diplomacy and internal political debates.
Teachings of Buddha in Navigating Present-Day Challenges
- Compass for Ethical Uncertainty
- Buddha’s teachings provide a path of sustainability, simplicity, and reverence for all life.
- Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path as a transformative roadmap.
- Mindfulness in a Distracted World
- Buddha’s emphasis on mindfulness in the age of digital overload.
- Practices like meditation for reducing stress and cultivating focused attention
- Compassion in a Polarized Society
- Buddha’s teachings on compassion as an antidote to rising tensions.
- Recognition of interconnectedness for empathetic communication.
- The Middle Way in an All-or-Nothing Culture
- Buddha’s concept of the Middle Way for mindful consumption.
- Balancing personal desires and responsible living in a consumerist society.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2020) Q. Concerning the religious history of India, consider the following statements: 1. Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism. 2. Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism. 3. The deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered Mahayana Buddhism. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (b) Prelims (2016) Q. With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements: 1. The concept of Bodhisattva is central to the Hinayana sect of Buddhism. 2. Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to Enlightenment. 3. Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (b) Mains (2020) Q. Pala period is the most significant phase in the history of Buddhism in India. |
Source: PIB
Turkey’s parliament approves Sweden’s NATO membership
Tag: GS-2 IR
In News:
A significant obstacle in Sweden’s bid to join NATO was overcome as Turkey’s parliament endorsed its membership.
North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO): Ensuring Collective Security
Overview of NATO
- Formation and Membership
- Established in 1949 with the signing of the Washington Treaty.
- Security alliance comprising 31 North American and European countries.
- Finland became the 31st member in April 2023.
- Fundamental Goal and Collective Defense
- Aims to safeguard Allies’ freedom and security through political and military means.
- Operates on the principle of collective defense, articulated in Article 5 of the Washington Treaty.
- Headquarters and Functions
- Headquarters located in Brussels, Belgium.
- Political function: Promotes democratic values, facilitates consultations, and fosters cooperation on defense and security issues.
- Military function: Committed to peaceful dispute resolution and, if needed, has the capability for crisis-management operations.
Turkey’s Approval of Sweden’s NATO Membership
- Parliamentary Approval for Sweden’s NATO Membership
- On January 23, Turkey’s parliament voted to approve Sweden’s NATO membership after a 20-month delay.
- Sweden’s Motivation to Join NATO
- Historical Neutrality: Sweden, neutral for two centuries, sought NATO membership due to changing geopolitical dynamics.
- Ukraine Crisis: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine prompted Sweden to reconsider its neutrality.
- Public Opinion Shift: Increasing public support led Sweden to apply for NATO membership in 2022.
Turkey’s Opposition to Sweden’s NATO Bid
- Accusations and Disputes
- Support to Kurdish Militant Outfit: Turkey accused Sweden of being lenient towards groups it deemed terrorists.
- Quran-Burning Protests: Turkey criticized Sweden for Quran-burning protests, invoking freedom of speech laws.
- Geopolitical Considerations: Experts linked Turkey’s opposition to factors like arms deals with the U.S.
- US-Turkey Dynamics
- F-16 Fighter Jet Deal: The US agreeing to sell 40 F-16 fighter jets to Turkey was seen in connection with Sweden’s NATO bid.
- Potential Influence: While not explicitly linked, the deal is expected to proceed following Turkey’s support for Sweden.
Sweden’s Contribution to NATO
- Strategic Significance
- Geographic Advantage: Sweden’s NATO membership extends NATO territory along almost the entire Baltic Sea coastline.
- Strategic Bases: Provides NATO with strategic bases close to Russia, facilitating streamlined supply lines and defense of assets in the Baltic Sea.
- Military Capabilities
- Modern and Experienced: Despite a small numerical size, Sweden’s military is modern and has experience in past NATO missions.
- Advanced Technology: Possesses advanced aircraft and submarine capabilities, enhancing NATO’s overall capabilities.
Source: IE
National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA)
Tag: GS-3 Economy
In News:
In 2024, the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) is set to conduct inspections of the Big Four audit firms along with other leading auditors responsible for overseeing large listed entities.
National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA): Regulating Financial Standards
Establishment and Objective
- Statutory Body
- Constituted under Section 132 of the Companies Act, 2013.
- Independent authority with the mandate to regulate the auditing profession and accounting standards in India.
- Goal
- Enhance the quality and consistency of financial statements in India.
- Ensure businesses and financial institutions provide accurate and fair information.
Composition
- Members and Chairperson
- Mandated by the Companies Act to have a chairperson appointed by the Central Government and up to 15 members.
- Qualifications include expertise in accountancy, auditing, finance, or law.
- Members must declare no conflict of interest or lack of independence.
- Those in full-time employment should not be associated with any audit firm during their term and two years after.
Responsibilities
- Policy Recommendations
- Make recommendations on the foundation and establishment of accounting and auditing policies and standards.
- Compliance Oversight
- Monitor and enforce compliance with accounting and auditing standards.
- Quality Oversight
- Oversee the quality of service provided by professionals like auditors and CFOs.
- Suggest measures for improving service quality.
- Other Functions
- Perform additional functions related to the above objectives.
Powers
- Investigative Authority
- Empowered to investigate professional or other misconduct by chartered accountants and their firms.
- Same powers as a civil court under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908.
- Authority to impose punishment upon proving misconduct.
- Appeal Process
- Dissatisfied parties can appeal NFRA decisions to the Appellate Authority.
Jurisdiction
- Investigation Scope
- Jurisdiction extends to listed companies and large unlisted public companies (thresholds to be prescribed in Rules).
- Central Government can refer other entities for investigation where public interest is involved.
Headquarters
- Location
- Headquartered in New Delhi.
Source: FE
Default Bail
Tag: GS-2 Polity and Governance
In News:
The Supreme Court has recently ruled that the entitlement to default bail cannot be asserted based on the ongoing investigation against other accused individuals.
Default Bail: An Overview
Types of Bail Under CrPC
- Anticipatory Bail
- Governed by Section 438 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).
- Regular Bail
- Governed by Section 439 of the CrPC.
- Default/Statutory Bail
- Governed by Section 167(2) of the CrPC.
Definition
- Accrual of Right
- Arises as a right for an accused in custody when police fail to complete the investigation and file chargesheet within the mandated time.
Statutory Time Frames
- Investigation Period
- Mandatory time frames for completion of investigation based on the gravity of the offence.
- For imprisonment up to 10 years: 60 days.
- For death/life imprisonment/more than 10 years: 90 days (excluding special statutes).
Principles
- Nature of Right
- Inalienable right, regardless of the nature of the crime.
- Computation of Time
- Period starts from the day accused is first remanded.
- Includes both police and judicial custody, excluding house arrest.
- Eligibility
- Accused must have been in custody during the entire statutory investigation period.
- No release on bail during this period.
- Claiming the Right
- Accused must claim the right by filing an application under Section 167(2).
- Automatic Bail
- No automatic bail if no application filed.
- Right enforced upon filing the bail application.
- Post-Expiry Consideration
- Right only applicable after investigation time limit expires.
- Cancellation of Default Bail
- If accused fails to apply after investigation time limit, and charge-sheet filed or more time sought, default bail no longer applicable.
- Magistrate can grant further time for investigation.
- Accused still eligible for bail under other legal provisions.
Fundamental Right
- Supreme Court’s Perspective
- Default bail under Section 167(2) viewed as a fundamental right, not just statutory.
- Considered a procedure established by law under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Source: LL
Halwa Ceremony
Tag: GS-2 Budget
In News:
The Union Finance Minister recently took part in the ‘Halwa Ceremony,’ a customary event held prior to the annual budget presentation.
Halwa Ceremony: Unveiling the Budget Preparation Tradition
- Annual Tradition
- Conducted every year before the budget announcement.
- Marks the official commencement of printing various budget-related documents.
- Halwa Preparation
- Involves cooking the traditional dessert ‘halwa’ in a large kadhai (wok).
- The finance minister plays a key role in initiating the process.
- Symbolic Significance
- Signifies the official start of budget-related document preparation.
- Brings together individuals directly involved in the budget-making process.
- Location
- Takes place in the basement of the Finance Ministry’s North Block in Central Delhi.
- Special printing press located in this area for budget document printing.
- Finance Minister’s Role
- Finance minister stirs the kadhai and serves halwa to officials, symbolizing the initiation.
- Formal Send-Off
- Acts as a formal farewell for ministry officials and staff engaged in crafting the annual financial statement.
- Lock-In Period
- Followed by a designated ‘lock-in’ period for top officials involved in budget preparation.
- Officials isolate themselves within the ministry premises, cutting off from families to maintain document confidentiality.
- Stay Requirement
- Officials required to remain in the Finance Ministry until the budget is officially presented by the finance minister.
Source: HT
National Voters’ Day (NVD)
Tag: GS-2 Governance
In News:
The Election Commission of India is set to commemorate the 14th National Voters’ Day (NVD) on January 25, 2024.
National Voters’ Day (NVD): Celebrating Electoral Awareness
- Foundation Day Significance
- Observed annually on January 25 since 2011.
- Marks the foundation day of the Election Commission of India (ECI) on January 25, 1950.
- Purpose
- Aims to raise electoral awareness among citizens.
- Encourages active participation in the electoral process.
- Dedication to Voters
- Dedicated to the voters of the country.
- Focuses on facilitating the enrolment of voters, especially newly eligible young voters.
- New Voters Recognition
- New voters are honored and receive their Elector Photo Identity Card (EPIC) during NVD functions nationwide.
- Celebration Levels
- Celebrated at national, state, district, constituency, and polling booth levels.
- One of the largest celebrations in the country, promoting voter engagement.
- NVD 2024 Theme
- Theme for 2024: ‘Nothing Like Voting, I Vote For sure.’
- Coincides with the 75th year celebration of the Election Commission of India on January 25, 2024.
Source: PIB
Wandering albatrosses
Tag: GS-3 Environment and Ecology
In News:
Wandering albatrosses face the risk of extinction, and their nesting sites are in jeopardy due to the impact of climate change.
About Wandering albatrosses
- Wandering albatrosses, recognized as the world’s largest flying bird, face a threat of extinction, with climate change posing a risk to their nesting sites.
- These remarkable birds, boasting a wingspan of up to 3.5 meters, are primarily inhabitants of the Southern Hemisphere, spending most of their approximately 60-year lifespan at sea and returning to land only for breeding.
- Subantarctic islands, particularly Marion Island and Prince Edward Island, support a significant portion of the global breeding population of wandering albatrosses.
- Their breeding habitat is characterized by features such as peat soils, tussock grass, sedges, mosses, and shrubs.
- Wandering albatrosses exhibit monogamous behavior, forming pairs that mate for life.
- Classified as “Vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), these birds face threats, including the impact of longline fishing and the ingestion of plastics, which can result in fatalities for both chicks and adults.
- The additional concern of climate change further jeopardizes their existence, specifically putting their nesting sites at risk and contributing to the overall threat of extinction.
Source: DTE
Disease X
Tag: GS-3 Economy
In News:
The World Health Organization (WHO) has underscored the immediate necessity for worldwide readiness in the face of a potential new pandemic known as ‘Disease X’.
About Disease X
- Disease X is a term used to describe a theoretical pathogen or threat with the potential to cause a significant pandemic in the future.
- It encompasses various possibilities, including a new agent, virus, bacterium, or fungus, for which there is no known treatment.
- Coined by scientists and acknowledged by the World Health Organization (WHO), Disease X could belong to any of the 25 families of viruses capable of causing illness in humans.
- The concept of Disease X was introduced in the WHO’s updated Blueprint list of diseases in 2018.
- Scientists express concern that Disease X might be up to 20 times more deadly than the SARS-CoV virus, which led to the recent pandemic.
- Disease X represents an unidentified illness that poses a potential microbial threat to human health in the future.
Source: DTE
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are daily current affairs?
A: Daily current affairs refer to the most recent and relevant events, developments, and news stories that are happening around the world on a day-to-day basis. These can encompass a wide range of topics, including politics, economics, science, technology, sports, and more.
Q: Why is it important to stay updated with daily current affairs?
A: Staying updated with daily current affairs is crucial because it helps individuals make informed decisions in their personal and professional lives. It enables people to understand the world around them, stay aware of significant events, and engage in informed discussions about important issues.
Q: Where can I access daily current affairs information?
A: There are various sources for daily current affairs, including newspapers, news websites, television news broadcasts, radio programs, and dedicated apps or newsletters. Social media platforms are also widely used to share and access current affairs information.
Q: How can I effectively incorporate daily current affairs into my routine?
A: To incorporate daily current affairs into your routine, consider setting aside specific times each day to read or watch news updates. You can also subscribe to newsletters or follow news apps to receive curated content. Engaging in discussions with peers or participating in online forums can further enhance your understanding of current events.
Q: What are some tips for critical analysis of daily current affairs?
A: When analyzing daily current affairs, it’s essential to cross-reference information from multiple sources to ensure accuracy. Additionally, consider the source’s credibility and bias, if any. Develop the ability to identify the main points and implications of news stories, and critically evaluate the significance and impact of the events reported.
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