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.
Indian Poultry Sector
Tag: GS-3 Economics of Animal-Rearing
In News: The recent H5N1 outbreak has underscored significant weaknesses in the industrial livestock sector, emphasizing the urgent need for a thorough reevaluation of animal welfare standards within India’s environmental and legal frameworks.
Challenges Faced by the Indian Poultry Industry
- Disease Outbreaks and Biosecurity
- Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease pose significant threats, leading to bird culling and market disruptions.
- Inadequate biosecurity measures contribute to disease spread, especially in crowded farm and market environments.
- Market Fluctuations and Price Volatility
- Volatile feed prices and fluctuating consumer demand during disease outbreaks affect production costs and market stability.
- Infrastructure and Supply Chain Challenges
- Limited cold chain infrastructure results in spoilage and wastage, while a disorganised supply chain raises transaction costs and hampers product movement.
- Policy and Regulatory Issues
- Fragmented regulations and limited access to credit hinder industry growth and modernisation efforts.
- Labour shortages and environmental concerns also pose challenges to sustainable development.
Provisions Related to the Poultry Sector in India
- Status of Poultry Birds
- India has a large poultry population, with significant contributions from small and marginal farmers.
- Legal Status and Guidelines
- New guidelines categorise poultry farmers based on flock size and require regulatory approvals for medium-sized farms.
- Existing laws address animal welfare and pollution control but require better enforcement and implementation.
Initiatives for the Poultry Industry
- Poultry Venture Capital Fund (PVCF) and National Livestock Mission (NLM) provide financial support and assistance for disease control and productivity enhancement.
- Assistance to States for Control of Animal Diseases (ASCAD) Scheme focuses on disease control and containment efforts.
Steps Needed to Support the Poultry Industry
- Focus on Biosecurity
- Implement compartmentalisation and vaccination programs to minimise disease spread.
- Encourage the adoption of advanced feeding and environmental monitoring technologies.
- Strengthen Supply Chain and Regulations
- Promote contract farming and invest in cold chain infrastructure to improve efficiency and reduce wastage.
- Streamline regulations and provide better access to credit for industry players.
Conclusion
By addressing key challenges and implementing strategic initiatives, the Indian poultry industry can achieve sustainable growth, enhance biosecurity measures, and strengthen its competitiveness in the global market.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2015) Q. H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to which one of the following diseases? (a) AIDS (b) Bird flu (c) Dengue (d) Swine flu Ans: (d) Mains (2014)Q. Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without a Doctor prescription, be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved. |
Source: TH
Reasons Behind Scrutiny on Indian Spices
Tag: GS-3 Economy
In News: The Indian spice export industry is facing a crisis of confidence as at least five countries, including Singapore, Hong Kong, and the U.S., have initiated investigations into potential contamination of spice blends from leading Indian brands such as MDH and Everest.
Countries Concerned About Safety of Indian Spices
- Hong Kong’s Action: On April 5th, the Centre for Food Safety in Hong Kong suspended the sale of certain MDH and Everest spice blends due to high levels of ethylene oxide, a prohibited pesticide.
- Singapore’s Recall: Following suit, Singapore ordered a recall of Everest spice mix, citing the presence of ethylene oxide, a pesticide unauthorized for use in food.
- U.S. FDA’s Response: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), previously cautious of Indian food imports, is gathering information on the situation.
- Global Concerns: Regulatory bodies in Maldives, Australia, and Bangladesh have announced similar measures, reflecting global apprehensions regarding Indian spices’ safety.
Health Concerns Related to Ethylene Oxide Contamination
- Prohibited Pesticide: Ethylene oxide (ETO) is a banned pesticide used in industrial settings and agriculture, posing health risks if residues are present in food products.
- Potential Health Risks: Long-term exposure to ethylene oxide is linked to various health issues, including cancer, prompting regulatory action globally.
- Previous Warnings: The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has previously flagged ETO contamination in Indian spices, citing concerns about consumer safety.
Responses and Measures Taken
- MDH’s Rebuttal: MDH denied allegations of ETO contamination, asserting that they do not use ethylene oxide in any stage of their spice processing.
- Spices Board’s Actions: The Spices Board announced mandatory testing of consignments to Singapore and Hong Kong, and collaborated with exporters to address concerns.
- FSSAI’s Initiatives: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) directed state regulators to test major spice brands for ETO presence and planned nationwide surveillance.
Challenges in Ensuring Food Safety in India
- Operational Challenges: India’s diverse food landscape and inadequate recordkeeping hinder efficient tracing of ingredients and risk assessment, particularly for smaller businesses.
- Logistical Barriers: Insufficient food testing labs across states and territories, coupled with resource constraints, impede effective enforcement of food safety regulations.
- Transparency Issues: Lack of transparency in FSSAI operations and dissemination of testing results undermines accountability and fails to address rampant food adulteration practices.
Source: TH
Article 361
Tag: GS-2
In News: An employee at Kolkata’s Raj Bhavan accused West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose of sexual harassment. Despite this, Article 361 grants him immunity from criminal proceedings.
Understanding Article 361 of the Constitution
- Overview
- Article 361 of the Constitution pertains to the immunity granted to the President and Governors of states in India.
- Immunity Clause
- According to this article, the President and Governors are not answerable to any court for the exercise and performance of their powers and duties in office.
- Nor can they be held accountable for any acts done in the course of exercising their official duties.
Key Sub-Clauses
- No criminal proceedings whatsoever can be initiated or continued against the President or Governor of a state during their term of office.
- No process for the arrest or imprisonment of the President or Governor shall be issued from any court during their term in office.
Summary of Article 361
- Article 361 provides immunity to the Governor of a state from legal liability for their official acts and personal acts during their term in office.
- This means they cannot be held accountable to any court for their official duties, and no criminal proceedings can be initiated against them during their tenure.
- However, civil proceedings can be initiated for their personal acts after two months’ notice.
- Additionally, the Governor cannot be arrested or imprisoned while in office. If a Governor commits a criminal offense during their term, they can be prosecuted once their term ends, ensuring they are not above the law.
Supreme Court’s Interpretation
- In the case of Rameshwar Prasad v Union of India, the Supreme Court ruled that Governors enjoy complete immunity, even on allegations of personal malfeasance.
- This immunity extends to their discretionary constitutional powers.
Precedents
- In past cases, criminal action against a Governor has been halted until they complete their term in office.
- For instance, in the 1992 Babri Masjid demolition case, criminal charges were allowed against several leaders except for former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Kalyan Singh, who was serving as the Governor of Rajasthan at the time.
Source: TH
UN Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals
Tag: GS – 2 GS – 3 Industrial Policy, Effect of Policies & Politics of Countries on India’s Interests
In News: The UN Secretary-General has recently established a panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals tasked with devising universal, voluntary principles for the minerals value chain.
Key Facts About the Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals
- Objective and Scope
- The panel aims to address issues concerning equity, transparency, investment, sustainability, and human rights in the context of critical minerals for renewable energy technologies.
- It seeks to align its objectives with global sustainability agendas like the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement.
- Utilization of Past Efforts
- The panel builds upon previous UN initiatives such as the Working Group on Sustainable Extractive Industries.
- It particularly draws from the initiative titled ‘Harnessing Critical Energy Transition Minerals for Sustainable Development.’
- Principles Development
- One of the key functions of the panel is to develop principles ensuring fairness and transparency globally and locally in the entire value chain of critical minerals.
- These principles are aimed at upholding the highest sustainability and human development standards.
Significance of Critical Minerals
- Definition and Importance
- Critical minerals are essential for economic development and national security, and their scarcity or concentration in a few regions may lead to supply chain vulnerabilities.
- Different countries maintain their lists of critical minerals based on their specific needs and priorities.
- Critical Minerals for India
- India has identified 30 critical minerals crucial for its economic growth and technological advancement.
- These include elements like lithium, cobalt, rare earth elements, and others, essential for various industries and sectors.
- Significance for Economic Self-Reliance
- Critical minerals play a vital role in sectors such as high-tech electronics, telecommunications, and electric vehicles, fostering economic self-reliance and technological innovation in India.
Challenges and Implications for India
- Supply Chain Disruptions
- Conflicts and geopolitical tensions in mineral-rich regions like Russia and Ukraine disrupt established supply chains, posing challenges for India’s access to critical minerals.
- Limited Domestic Reserves
- India faces a shortage of domestic reserves for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements, necessitating heavy reliance on imports.
- Heavy Reliance on Imports
- India’s dependence on imported critical minerals exposes it to risks such as price fluctuations, geopolitical tensions, and supply disruptions.
- Growing Demand and Climate Goals
- India’s ambitious renewable energy and electric vehicle targets drive an increasing demand for critical minerals, exacerbating its import dependence.
Conclusion
The UN initiative on critical minerals underscores the importance of international cooperation in ensuring sustainable access to these resources.
As India pursues its renewable energy goals, collaboration on critical minerals becomes crucial for achieving economic development and environmental sustainability.
| UPSC Previous Year Questions Prelims (2012) Q. Recently, there has been a concern over the short supply of a group of elements called rare earth metals. Why? 1. China, which is the largest producer of these elements, has imposed some restrictions on their export. 2. Other than China, Australia, Canada and Chile, these elements are not found in any country. 3. Rare earth metals are essential for the manufacture of various kinds of electronic items and there is a growing demand for these elements. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (c) Mains (2021)Q. Despite India being one of the countries of Gondwanaland, its mining industry contributes much less to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in percentage. Discuss. Mains (2017)Q. “In spite of adverse environmental impact, coal mining is still inevitable for development”. Discuss. |
Source: UN
Batillipes Chandrayaani
Tag: GS-3 Environment and Conservation
In News: Researchers at Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) have named a newly discovered species of marine tardigrade found off the southeast coast of Tamil Nadu as Batillipes chandrayaani, in honor of the Chandrayaan-3 moon mission.
About Batillipes Chandrayaani
Batillipes Chandrayaani was discovered in the intertidal beach sediments at Mandapam in Tamil Nadu, India.
Features
- This newly discovered species shares a similar size to other tardigrades, measuring approximately 0.15 millimeters in length and 0.04 millimeters in width.
- It possesses a trapezoid-shaped head and is characterized by four pairs of legs equipped with sharp-tipped sensory spines.
- Both male and female individuals exhibit similar morphology and size characteristics.
- Batillipes Chandrayaani represents the 39th species described within the genus Batillipes.
Source: TH
Diplomatic Passport
Tag: GS-2
In News: Escaping amidst a sex abuse scandal, a Member of Parliament (MP) from an Indian political party absconded to Germany using a diplomatic passport.
Overview of Diplomatic Passport
- Diplomatic passports have maroon covers and are typically valid for up to five years.
- Holders of diplomatic passports are granted specific privileges and immunities under international law, including immunity from arrest, detention, and certain legal proceedings in the host country.
- The Ministry of External Affairs’ (MEA) Consular, Passport & Visa Division issues diplomatic passports, known as ‘Type D’ passports, to individuals falling into various categories.
Categories Eligible for Diplomatic Passports
- Individuals with diplomatic status.
- Government-appointed personnel traveling abroad for official business.
- Officers serving under branches A and B of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), usually at the rank of Joint Secretary and above.
- Relatives and immediate family members of officers employed in IFS and MEA.
- Select individuals authorized to undertake official travel on behalf of the government.
Visa Notes and Official Travel
- The MEA issues visa notes to government officials traveling abroad for official assignments or visits.
- These visa notes facilitate official travel on behalf of the Indian government.
Revocation Procedures
- According to the Passport Act 1967, the passport authority, with prior approval from the Central government, may cancel a passport or travel document.
- Grounds for impounding or revoking a passport include wrongful possession, obtaining the passport through suppression of material information or based on false information, or if there’s a court order prohibiting departure from India or summoning the individual.
- A diplomatic passport can be revoked by court order during criminal proceedings against the passport holder.
Operational Visa Exemption Agreements
- India has operational visa exemption agreements with 34 countries for holders of diplomatic passports.
- Germany is one of these countries, and under a reciprocal deal signed in 2011, holders of Indian diplomatic passports can visit Germany without a visa for stays up to 90 days.
- Similar agreements exist with countries such as France, Austria, Afghanistan, Czech Republic, Italy, Greece, Iran, and Switzerland.
- Additionally, India has agreements with 99 other countries where holders of diplomatic, service, and official passports can enjoy visa exemption for stays up to 90 days.
Source: IE
Shaksgam Valley
Tag: GS-1 Physical Geography
In News: India has strongly objected to China’s construction activities in the Shaksgam Valley, denouncing them as an unlawful endeavor to change the ground situation.
Overview of the Shaksgam Valley
- The Shaksgam Valley, also known as the Trans Karakoram Tract, is situated within the Hunza-Gilgit region of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) and remains a disputed territory.
- India lays claim to this area, although it is currently under the control of Pakistan.
Geographical Features
- The valley shares borders with Xinjiang Province of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to the north, the Northern Areas of POK to the south and west, and the Siachen Glacier region to the east.
Historical Background
- In 1963, Pakistan ceded the Shaksgam Valley to China as part of a boundary agreement between the two countries aimed at resolving border disputes.
- This agreement was instrumental in the establishment of the Karakoram Highway, constructed collaboratively by Chinese and Pakistani engineers during the 1970s.
Provisions of the Boundary Agreement
- Article 6 of the 1963 agreement outlined that negotiations concerning the Shaksgam Valley would be reopened between the concerned sovereign authority and the Government of the People’s Republic of China following the resolution of the Kashmir dispute between Pakistan and India.
- The agreement set the groundwork for the construction of the Karakoram Highway, a significant infrastructure project connecting Pakistan and China.
Source: IE
Garo Hills
Tag: GS-1 Physical Geography
In News: Explorers from the Geological Survey of India (GSI) achieved a significant discovery by unearthing ancient fossils in Tolegre, located in the South Garo Hills of Meghalaya. These fossils are estimated to date back approximately 35-40 million years.
Introduction to Garo Hills
- The Garo Hills constitute the western part of Meghalaya State and span an area of approximately 8,000 square kilometers.
- This region is part of the Meghalaya subtropical forests eco-region and is known for its lush greenery.
Geographical Features
- Positioned near the Indo-Bangladesh border, the Garo Hills are a segment of the Patkai hill range, which extends across the Indo-Myanmar border.
- It is recognized as one of the wettest places globally and is characterized by numerous tributaries of the Brahmaputra River.
Administrative Division
- Garo Hills is divided into five districts: North Garo Hills, East Garo Hills, West Garo Hills, South Garo Hills, and South-West Garo Hills.
Ethnicity and Culture
- The Garo Hills are predominantly inhabited by the Garo tribe, who refer to themselves as Achik-mande.
- The Garos constitute the second largest tribe in Meghalaya and are renowned for being one of the few remaining matrilineal tribes globally.
Cultural Festivals and Beliefs
- The primary festival celebrated by the Garo community is the Wangala festival, a harvest festival predominantly observed by adherents of the traditional animistic religion.
- The region is traversed by two mountain ranges, namely the Arabella range and the Tura range, which create the expansive Balpakram valley in between.
- Balpakram is revered by the Garo community as a sacred site where they believe the spirits of the deceased reside.
Natural Features and Conservation Efforts
- Nokrek Peak, standing at an elevation of 1412 meters, is the highest point in the Garo Hills and is enveloped by dense forests.
- The region is home to the esteemed Nokrek National Park, which safeguards a rich variety of flora and fauna. In recognition of its ecological significance, UNESCO designated the park as a biosphere reserve in 2009.
Source: IT
High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS)
Tag: GS-3 Science and Tech.
In News: Recently, the Russian government released new footage purportedly demonstrating the targeting of two Ukrainian High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) shortly after the United States authorized a substantial increase in military aid for Ukraine.
- Overview of High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS)
- HIMARS is a lightweight, multiple rocket launcher system designed to engage various targets, including artillery, air defense concentrations, vehicles, and personnel carriers.
- Manufacturing and Manufacturer
- The system is manufactured by Lockheed Martin Corporation, a prominent US-based security and aerospace company.
- Features of HIMARS
- It is mounted on a 5-ton Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV), making it air-transportable and highly mobile.
- HIMARS can carry either a launcher pod containing six rockets or one MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) with a range of 300 kilometers (186 miles).
- With a rapid preparation time of less than 20 seconds, HIMARS can fire a full launcher load of six rockets within 45 seconds.
- After firing, the system swiftly moves away from the launch site at high speed to evade detection by enemy forces.
- Protection and Safety Measures
- HIMARS is equipped with the Increased Crew Protection cabin, designed to safeguard the three-man operating crew from plume gases, rocket launch debris, and small arms fire.
Source: NW
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
