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.
Qatar has freed eight former Indian Navy veterans
Tag: GS-2 IR
In News:
Qatar has freed eight former Indian Navy veterans who had been sentenced to death on charges of espionage.
India – Qatar Bilateral Relations
High-level visits
- The diplomatic ties between India and Qatar have been amicable for several decades.
- In November 2008, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s historic visit marked the beginning of enhanced relations.
- In 2015, the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, visited India, reciprocated by Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Qatar in 2016.
- Sushma Swaraj, the late Indian Foreign Minister, made the first-ever visit by an Indian Foreign Minister to Qatar in 2018.
Bilateral trade
- In 2021, India ranked among the top four export destinations for Qatar and top three sources of its imports.
- India’s imports from Qatar in FY2022-23 amounted to $16.81 billion, with LNG imports constituting $8.32 billion, accounting for 49.5%.
- Qatar stands as India’s primary source of liquefied natural gas (LNG).
- Indian exports to Qatar totaled $1.97 billion in FY2022-23, including cereals, copper articles, iron and steel articles, vegetables, fruits, spices, and processed food products.
LNG Supply Agreement
- In January 2024, India and Qatar extended their LNG supply agreement until 2048.
- Petronet, India’s company, secured a landmark deal to annually purchase 7.5 million tonnes of LNG from Qatar starting in 2029.
- This agreement, considered the world’s largest extension for liquefied natural gas, builds upon a 25-year contract initiated in 1999.
Defence co-operation
- Defence co-operation is a pivotal aspect of the India-Qatar relationship.
- The India-Qatar Defence Cooperation Agreement, signed in 2008 and extended in 2018, is crucial in strengthening ties.
- Indian Naval and Coast Guard ships regularly visit Qatar, and joint naval exercises like Zair Al Bahr have been conducted.
Indian migrants in Qatar
- Approximately 8 lakh Indian migrants reside in Qatar, contributing significantly to remittances back to India.
- In FY 2021-22, Qatar sent the eighth-highest amount of remittances among all countries.
Challenges in India – Qatar Bilateral Relations
- In June 2022, BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma’s derogatory remarks about the Prophet on a TV show strained relations, prompting Qatar to demand a public apology.
- The Israeli bombardment of Gaza added complexities to the bilateral relationship, with Qatar’s mediation efforts in the Middle East crisis.
Background of the present case
- In August 2022, eight former Indian Navy personnel were arrested in Qatar, working for Al Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services.
- They were charged with spying for Israel, leading to death sentences in October 2023.
- In November 2023, India filed an appeal, and in December 2023, the Court of Appeal of Qatar commuted the death sentences to various prison terms.
Qatar frees 8 ex-Indian Navy men jailed on espionage charges
- The release of the Navy veterans underscores strong diplomatic ties and showcases India’s influence on the global stage.
- It reaffirms the safety of Indian nationals abroad and bolsters bilateral relations, critical for the millions of Indians contributing to Gulf economies.
Source: IE
Performance of Information Commissions in India 2022-23
Tag: GS – 2 Right to Information, Statutory Bodies, Transparency & Accountability, Issues Related to Women
In News:
A recent report, titled “Report Card on the Performance of Information Commissions (ICs) has unveiled concerning statistics across India.
Key Highlights of the Report
Gender Disparity in Information Commissions
- Representation of Women
- A significant gender gap is evident, with only 9% of Information Commissioners nationwide being women.
- Leadership Roles
- Merely 5% of Information Commissions have been led by women, and currently, no female commissioner heads any commission.
States Without Female Commissioners
- Twelve Information Commissions, constituting around 41%, have never had a female commissioner.
- These states include Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim, Telangana, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal.
Background of Information Commissioners
- Retired Government Officials
- Approximately 58% of Information Commissioners surveyed have a background as retired government officials.
- Legal Professionals
- Legal professionals, including lawyers or former judges, make up about 14% of Information Commissioners, contributing to the diversity of backgrounds.
Functioning of Information Commissions
- Case Disposal Rates
- Some Information Commissions return a significant number of cases without issuing orders, with the Central Information Commission and some State Information Commissions returning 41% of appeals or complaints.
- Low Disposal Rates
- Despite a high number of pending cases, some commissions exhibit low disposal rates per commissioner, indicating potential inefficiencies in case management.
- Vacancies and Appointments
- Timely and transparent appointments are lacking, leading to reduced capacity and chiefless Commissions.
Defunct Commissions
- The State Information Commissions of Jharkhand, Telangana, and Tripura are defunct due to the absence of new appointments, impacting their effectiveness.
Transparency Issues
- The functioning of Information Commissions is largely opaque, with only 8 out of 29 stating that their hearings are open to the public, raising transparency concerns.
Way Forward
- Ensure fair, transparent, and inclusive selection processes for commissioners, prioritizing representation for women and marginalized groups.
- Provide adequate resources and infrastructure to enhance case disposal rates and efficiency in line with RTI Act and Supreme Court norms.
- Address timely and transparent appointments, advertise vacancies widely, and revive defunct commissions to fill vacancies and ensure each IC is led by a chief commissioner.
- Enhance transparency and accountability through the publication of annual reports, disclosure of budgets and expenditures, and making hearings open for public attendance.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Mains (2018)Q. The Right to Information Act is not all about citizens’ empowerment alone, it essentially redefines the concept of accountability.” Discuss. |
Source: TH
Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024
Tag: GS-3 Pollution
In News:
GS – 2 Government Policies & Interventions GS- 3 Conservation Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Statutory Bodies
Major Provisions of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024
Introduction
- The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, a cornerstone of India’s environmental legislation, is undergoing amendments to address shortcomings and align with contemporary needs.
Amended Provisions
- Decriminalisation of Minor Offences
- Focuses on decriminalising minor water pollution offences, aiming to prevent imprisonment for technical or procedural lapses.
- Seeks to align penalties with the severity of offences, promoting compliance without imposing excessive burdens.
- Exemption for Certain Industrial Plants
- Empowers the central government to exempt specific industrial plant categories from statutory restrictions, reducing duplication of surveillance efforts.
- Aims to streamline regulatory processes, enhance efficiency, and alleviate unnecessary burdens on regulatory agencies.
- Enhanced Regulatory Oversight
- Introduces measures to standardise regulatory oversight across states.
- Grants the central government authority to prescribe guidelines for State Pollution Control Board chairpersons and issue directives on industry-related consents.
- Ensures fair chairperson appointments through mandatory qualifications, experience, and procedures.
Critiques
- Critics argue against centralizing powers, citing concerns about federalism principles.
- Express concerns about potential impacts on transparency in dealing with water pollution issues.
- Fear that relaxing regulations may compromise industry and regulatory accountability, reducing transparency in environmental management.
Salient Features of Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
- Introduction
- Enacted for the prevention and control of water pollution, maintaining or restoring water wholesomeness.
- Central and State Pollution Control Boards
- Constituted under Sections 3 and 4 of the Act.
- CPCB, a statutory organization, established in 1974, functions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
- Previous Amendments
- Amended in 1978 and 1988 to clarify ambiguities and empower Pollution Control Boards.
- Obligations on Industries and Local Bodies
- Prior consent required from State Pollution Control Boards for establishing any industry or local body discharging sewage or effluent.
- State Boards may grant consent with specific conditions or refuse with reasons in writing.
- Similar provisions apply to industries discharging waste before the Act enactment.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2018) Q. How is the National Green Tribunal (NGT) different from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)? 1. The NGT has been established by an Act whereas the CPCB has been created by an executive order of the Government. 2. The NGT provides environmental justice and helps reduce the burden of litigation in the higher courts whereas the CPCB promotes cleanliness of streams and wells, and aims to improve the quality of air in the country. 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 Ans: (b) |
Source: IE
Rising Human-Animal Conflict
Tag: GS-3 Environment and Ecology
In News:
Wayanad is in turmoil following the tragic incident where a 47-year-old man was pursued and fatally trampled by a wild elephant.
Rising Human-Animal Conflict in Kerala
- Magnitude of the Issue
- The surge in human-animal conflict, particularly involving elephants, tigers, bison, and wild boars, has become a pressing concern in Kerala.
- Government data for 2022-23 highlights a significant increase in wild animal attacks, with elephants being the primary contributors.
- Statistics
- In 2022-23, there were 8,873 recorded wild animal attacks, leading to 98 reported deaths, with 27 attributed to elephant attacks.
- Kerala’s agriculture sector has also suffered, with 20,957 incidents of crop loss from 2017 to 2023.
- Worst-Affected Region – Wayanad
- Wayanad, with a forest cover of 36.48%, has witnessed 41 deaths from elephant attacks and seven from tiger attacks in the last decade.
Reasons Behind the Conflict
- Decline in Quality of Forest Habitats
- Cultivation of alien plants like acacia, mangium, and eucalyptus for commercial purposes has led to habitat and food source depletion.
- Invasive species planted by the forest department have hindered the growth of natural vegetation.
- Changing Agri-practices
- Shifts in agricultural practices, including leaving farmland unattended, draw animals out of forests.
- Wildlife attacks on cultivated crops like bananas and pineapples have increased.
- Human Activities
- Waste disposal near forested areas, habitat fragmentation due to construction, and increased human presence contribute to the conflict.
Addressing the Issue in Kerala
- Preventive Measures
- Schemes for elephant-proof trenches, stone walls, and solar-powered electric fencing have been implemented.
- In 2022-23, maintenance and construction of elephant-proof trenches and solar fencing were undertaken.
- Eco-Restoration Programs
- Kerala is engaged in eco-restoration programs to keep animals within forests.
- The state is acquiring land from farmers for conversion into forestland.
- Challenges Persist
- Despite efforts, the measures are deemed insufficient to tackle the crisis comprehensively.
Elephant Corridors in India
- Definition
- Elephant corridors are essential natural habitat linkages allowing elephants and other wildlife to move without disturbance.
- Changing Numbers
- Initially, 88 corridors were identified in 2005, increasing to 101 in 2017, and currently totaling 150 as per the Elephant Corridors of India, 2023 Report.
- West Bengal leads with 26 corridors.
- Significance
- Critical for elephant movement and beneficial for other wildlife, including the Royal Bengal tiger.
Conclusion
- The rise in human-animal conflict in Kerala emphasizes the need for comprehensive strategies addressing habitat quality, agricultural practices, and human activities. The management of elephant corridors on a national scale is crucial for wildlife conservation.
Source: IE
Swami Dayanand Saraswati
Tag: GS-1 Indian History
In News:
The Prime Minister of India recently spoke at an event commemorating the 200th birth anniversary of Swami Dayananda Saraswati.
About Swami Dayanand Saraswati
- Swami Dayanand Saraswati, originally named Mool Shankar Tiwari, was born on 12th February 1824 in Tankara, Gujarat.
- In his quest for truth, he spent fifteen years (1845-60) wandering as an ascetic.
- The DAV (Dayanand Anglo Vedic) schools were established in 1886, embodying Swami Dayanand Saraswati’s vision.
- The formal inception of the first Arya Samaj Unit occurred in Mumbai in 1875, with the Samaj’s headquarters later established in Lahore.
- Swami Dayanand Saraswati drew inspiration from the Vedas, considering them to be the unshakeable foundation and true original seed of Hinduism.
- He championed the slogan “Back to the Vedas,” emphasizing a return to the fundamental teachings of the Vedas as the guiding principles for Hinduism.
Source: PIB
Brumation
Tag: GS-3 Science and Tech.
In News:
In recent findings, researchers have illuminated a survival strategy utilized by reptiles called brumation.
About Brumation
- Brumation, similar to hibernation in mammals, is a state of dormancy or reduced activity observed in reptiles.
- This phenomenon is a natural part of the reptile’s cycle, typically occurring in colder months with limited food availability.
- Reptiles, categorized as cold-blooded vertebrates with backbones, possess dry skin covered with scales or bony plates and often lay soft-shelled eggs.
- The purpose of brumation in reptiles is to conserve energy and endure harsh conditions during periods of dropping temperatures and scarce food resources.
- This dormant state allows reptiles to survive until more favorable conditions emerge for feeding and reproduction.
- During brumation, reptiles seek sheltered areas such as burrows or rock crevices, where they slow their metabolism to endure extended periods without eating.
- Various reptilian species, including turtles, snakes, and lizards, have been observed entering brumation, each exhibiting unique behaviors to cope with adverse conditions.
- Researchers document and study these instances to gain insights into the specific adaptations and strategies employed by different reptile species during brumation.
Source: TH
Smart Food Grain Storage System (SAFEETY) technology
Tag: GS-3 Science and Tech., Agriculture
In News:
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has recently completed the successful technology transfer of the Smart Food Grain Storage System (SAFEETY) to M/s Paras Defense and Space Technology Ltd.
About SAFEETY Technology
- SAFEETY, developed by the Society for Applied Microwave Electronics Engineering and Research (SAMEER), an autonomous R&D institution under MeitY (Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology), features cutting-edge capabilities.
- The system incorporates conveyorized loading and unloading of grain bags, equipped with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) for traceability.
- Notable features include online weight and moisture measurement, along with Radio Frequency Based Removal of Moisture from Grain.
- SAFEETY demonstrates impressive efficiency by handling nearly one truckload of grains (approximately 28 tons) in just 40 minutes.
- The technology transfer of SAFEETY aligns with the Innovation, Science, and Technology theme of Vikshit Bharat @2047, aspiring to position India as a global leader in digital transformation and innovation.
- The implementation of this technology is poised to contribute to the reduction of post-harvest losses, improvement of food quality and safety, and enhancement of food security across the country.
Source: ET
Bond Yield
Tag: GS-3 Economy
In News:
The recent statement from the Reserve Bank of India Governor suggests that as inflation continues to ease, bond yields will also decrease, leading to a reduction in borrowing costs.
About Bonds
- A bond is a fixed-income instrument signifying a loan from an investor to a borrower.
- The borrower is typically a corporation or government entity.
- In exchange for the loan, the investor receives regular interest payments.
- The duration between the bond’s issuance and the agreed-upon repayment by the borrower is known as its ‘term to maturity.’
- Bonds are utilized by issuers to raise funds for diverse purposes, including expansion projects, refinancing existing debt, and funding welfare activities.
About Bond Yield
- Bond yield represents the annual return anticipated by an investor until maturity.
- It is influenced by coupon payments, which are periodic interest earnings received by bondholders for holding the bonds.
- At the bond’s maturity, bondholders receive its face value, but bonds can be bought at par value, discount (below par), or premium (above par) in the secondary market.
- The prevailing market price of bonds impacts the bond yield calculation.
- The formula for calculating bond yield is Bond Yield = Coupon Amount / Price.
- There is an inverse relationship between bond price and yield. When bond prices rise, yields fall, and vice versa.
- For example, if interest rates decrease, existing bonds become more valuable as they offer higher interest payments compared to new bonds with lower interest rates.
- However, the increased price of existing bonds makes them more expensive for new investors, causing the bond yield to decline due to the lower expected return on investment.
Source: Investopedia
Hastsal Minar
Tag: GS-1 Culture
In News:
In an age emphasizing the preservation of heritage, initiatives are underway to uncover the enigmas linked to the Hastsal Minar.
About Hastsal Minar
- Location: Hastsal Minar is situated in a small village in western Delhi.
- Construction Period: The construction of the minar was completed in 1634 during the reign of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.
- Alternative Names: It is also known as Mini Qutab Minar and referred to locally as Hastsal Ki Laat and Kaushal Minar.
- Architecture
- Constructed with lakhori bricks and clad with red sandstone.
- The minar stands 17 meters tall, with five storeys, positioned on a square platform, and has an octagonal body.
- The top features a domed Chhatri pavilion, accessible through a narrow staircase.
- The minar has three storeys, each with a decreasing diameter.
- Historical Use: Shah Jahan used Hastsal as one of his hunting lodges during the 17th century.
- Current Condition: In 2018, the minaret was recognized as Grade A in heritage value and received permission for conservation under Phase IV of the Delhi government’s project aimed at preserving lesser-known monuments in the capital.
Source: IE
Bor Tiger Reserve
Tag: GS-3 Environment and Ecology
In News:
The Bor Tiger Reserve (BTR) has recently requested Rs 1 crore to initiate wildlife safaris in the Bangdapur and Hingni forest ranges.
About Bor Tiger Reserve
- Designation: Originally a wildlife sanctuary, Bor was declared a tiger reserve in July 2014.
- Location: Situated in the Wardha District of Maharashtra, Bor Tiger Reserve holds the distinction of being the smallest tiger reserve in India based on its area.
- Geographical Coverage: Encompassing an area of 138.12 sq.km, the reserve includes the drainage basin of the Bor Dam.
- Central Location: Positioned centrally among various Bengal Tiger habitats, it shares boundaries with Pench Tiger Reserve to the North-east, Nagzira Navegaon Tiger Reserve to the east, and Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary to the South-east.
- Adjacent Reserves: Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is located to the southeast, Melghat Tiger Reserve to the west, and Satpura Tiger Reserve to the north-west.
- Vegetation: The landscape is characterized by the Dry Deciduous Forest type.
- Flora: Teak, tendu, bamboo, tarot, and gokhru are among the diverse plant species thriving in the reserve.
- Fauna: In addition to tigers, Bor Tiger Reserve is inhabited by various other mammals, including leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, Indian bison (gaur), chital, wild boars, and more.
Source: TOI
Case Study of the DAY – “AMA SANKALPA: Initiative to Reduce Infant and Maternal Deaths”
“Rayagada, a mineral-rich district in southern Odisha with a predominant tribal population of 57.52%, is addressing healthcare challenges through the ‘Ama Sankalpa’ initiative. Focused on reducing Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) and Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR), the district administration employs a bottom-up approach, leveraging Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) methods. ‘Ama Sankalpa Ratha’ Yatras, folk shows, and 126 Integrated Special VHND/RI sessions enhance health service accessibility, especially in hard-to-reach areas. The initiative includes ‘Project Surjyamukhi’ for early identification and referral of Severely Acute Malnourished (SAM) children, aiming to uplift the health standards of the tribal population.”
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.
In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.
For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here
For Daily Updates and Study Material:
Join our Telegram Channel – Edukemy for IAS
- 1. Learn through Videos – here
- 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs – here
- 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered – here
- 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice – here
