UPSC Daily Current Affairs – 27th Aug 2024 – Edukemy

Today’s daily current affairs briefing for UPSC aspirants explores the latest developments relevant to 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 India’s socio-political and economic landscape. 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. 

MUDRA 2.0 Loans Should Target Greater Equity, Deepen Financial Literacy 

Tags: GS – 2, GS – 3, Government Policies & Interventions- Growth & Development 

Why in the news? 

• Launched in 2015 by the Narendra Modi government, the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY) aims to foster entrepreneurship in India.  
• The scheme offers collateral-free micro-loans up to ₹10 lakh, targeting small and micro-enterprises and contributing significantly to the grassroots economy.  
• As the next phase, MUDRA 2.0, is anticipated, evaluating the successes and challenges of MUDRA 1.0 is crucial for enhancing future initiatives. 

Successes of MUDRA 1.0 

• MUDRA 1.0 has successfully disbursed over ₹27.75 lakh crore to 47 crore small and new entrepreneurs, greatly impacting India’s grassroots economy. 
• The scheme has been instrumental in providing financial support to individuals previously excluded from formal credit systems, promoting economic inclusivity. 
• Approximately 69% of MUDRA loan accounts are held by women, and 51% are owned by entrepreneurs from SC/ST and OBC communities.  
• This focus on marginalised groups has fostered gender equality and social equity, enhancing participation in economic growth. 
• MUDRA 1.0 has contributed to job creation, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, by encouraging self-employment and supporting small businesses, thus reducing unemployment and improving economic opportunities for underserved communities. 

Challenges Faced by MUDRA 1.0 

• Unequal Distribution of Credit:  
  • Despite the scheme’s inclusivity goal, loan disbursement was uneven, with more developed districts receiving disproportionate amounts.  
  • For instance, in FY 2021-22, the top 10 districts received over ₹26,000 crore in loans, equivalent to the total sanctioned for the bottom 318 districts combined.  
  • This disparity shows that rural and remote regions, meant to be the primary beneficiaries, lagged in accessing MUDRA loans. 
• Inadequate Monitoring and Implementation:  
  • Poor monitoring undermined the scheme’s effectiveness, leading to a loss of trust among beneficiaries and financial institutions.  
  • Although the overall NPA ratio decreased from 3.61% in FY21 to 2.1% in FY24, loans in the Kishore and Shishu categories (₹50,001 to ₹5 lakh and up to ₹50,000, respectively) accounted for over 75% of bad loans from FY20 to FY22. 
• Limited Financial Literacy Among Beneficiaries:  
  • With only 27% of India’s population being financially literate, many MUDRA beneficiaries lacked skills in budgeting, saving, and planning for loan repayments.  
  • This lack of financial literacy resulted in financial mismanagement and defaults, particularly among early-stage entrepreneurs. 
• High NPAs in Key Categories:  
  • The Kishore and Shishu loan categories experienced high NPAs, with the Kishore category consistently having an NPA percentage above 4% from FY20 to FY22, higher than the average across all loan categories.  
  • This issue was due to borrowers’ lack of business acumen and experience, alongside broader systemic issues such as inadequate support and mentorship. 
• Insufficient Credit Guarantee Mechanism:  
  • The lack of a robust credit guarantee mechanism made banks hesitant to lend to small and micro-entrepreneurs, particularly high-risk borrowers.  
  • This absence of a safety net constrained credit flow and exacerbated the uneven distribution of loans between urban and rural areas. 

Proposed Changes for MUDRA 2.0 to Address Challenges 

• Focused Outreach and Empowerment Zones:  
  • Establishing Focused Outreach and Empowerment Zones in rural and semi-urban areas is crucial.  
  • These zones will provide financial services, including micro-loans, savings accounts, and insurance products, to better reach traditionally excluded populations. 
• Nationwide Financial Literacy Programs:  
  • A nationwide initiative to enhance financial literacy among micro and small entrepreneurs should be a cornerstone of MUDRA 2.0.  
  • The curriculum would cover interest rates, cash flow management, tax preparation, and savings and investment, with special emphasis on digital financial literacy. 
• Enhanced Credit Guarantee Scheme (ECGS):  
  • MUDRA 2.0 should incorporate an ECGS to reduce risk for financial institutions, encouraging them to extend more credit to target beneficiaries. 
  • The ECGS would offer a credit guarantee to banks covering a significant portion of the loan amount in case of default, making lending more feasible for high-risk borrowers. 
• Robust Monitoring and Evaluation Framework (RMEF):  
  • Implementing a RMEF is essential for ensuring transparency, efficiency, and effectiveness.  
  • This framework would use technology to monitor loan disbursements, utilisation, and repayments in real-time, identifying and addressing issues early. 

Conclusion 

While MUDRA 1.0 has made significant progress in promoting entrepreneurship and economic inclusivity, its challenges highlight the need for a more comprehensive approach in MUDRA 2.0. By expanding its scope, enhancing financial literacy, introducing improved credit guarantees, and implementing a robust monitoring framework, MUDRA 2.0 can build on the successes of its predecessor and address its shortcomings. 

Source: IE 

India Targets Doubling Trade with Africa by 2030 

Tags: GS – 2, IR–  Groupings & Agreements Involving India– Effect of Policies & Politics of Countries on India’s Interests– Regional Groupings 

Why in the news? 

• Recently, at the 19th India-Africa Business Conclave organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in New Delhi, India announced an ambitious plan to double its exports to African countries to USD 200 billion by 2030.  

How Will India Double Its Exports to African Countries? 

• Targeting High-Growth Sectors: 
  • Agriculture and Agro-Products: Indian firms will aid Africa in boosting food production through advanced technologies and agro-processing methods, with bilateral trade reaching USD 100 billion in 2022. 
  • Pharmaceuticals: With exports at USD 3.8 billion in 2023, India aims to expand its role in providing affordable medicines and healthcare. 
  • Automobiles: India plans to boost exports of vehicles, especially two-wheelers and affordable cars, to meet rising African demand. 
  • Renewable Energy: India and Africa aim to lead in renewable energy, particularly solar power, with the “One World, One Grid” vision connecting energy grids. More than 20 African countries are part of the International Solar Alliance (ISA). 
  • Logistics and Transportation: India will share its PM Gati Shakti master plan and Unified Logistics Interface Portal (ULIP) to improve logistics and multimodal connectivity. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) highlights automobiles and logistics as key collaboration areas. 
  • Unified Approach to WTO Reforms: India seeks a unified African stance on WTO reforms, focusing on food security, agriculture, and technology transfer to address protectionist trade barriers. 
  • Duty-Free Tariff Preference and FTAs: India offers Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) to 27 Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in Africa and is exploring new Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to boost trade and diversify goods. 
• Strategic Cooperation: 
  • Support for African Union: India supports the African Union’s full G20 membership to elevate African voices globally. 
  • Special Economic Zones (SEZs): India encourages investments in Africa’s manufacturing zones and expanding SEZs to strengthen economic ties. 
  • Global South Representation: India aims to lead advocacy for the Global South, promoting inclusive growth and strengthening the position of developing nations, including those in Africa. 

Current Trends in India-Africa Trade: 

• Trade :  
  • Bilateral trade between India and Africa grew by 9.26% in FY 2022-23, reaching approximately USD 100 billion.  
  • Exports totaled USD 51.2 billion, and imports amounted to USD 46.65 billion. 
  • In FY24, India exported goods worth USD 38.17 billion to Africa, with major destinations including Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania.  
  • Key exports included petroleum products, engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, rice, and textiles.  
  • The African Union is India’s fourth-largest trading partner, after the United States, China, and the United Arab Emirates, with Nigeria being the top trading partner within the African Union, accounting for 20.91% of trade. 
• Import Composition: India’s imports from Africa are mainly primary products and natural resources: 
  • Fuels: 61% of imports, primarily crude oil from Nigeria, Angola, and Algeria. 
  • Precious Stones and Glass: 20%, sourced from Ghana, South Africa, and Botswana. 
  • Vegetables, Metals, and Minerals: Sourced from Benin, Sudan, Zambia, South Africa, Morocco, and Côte d’Ivoire. 
• Export Composition: 
  • Fuels: 20%, including non-crude petroleum oil to Mozambique, Togo, Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa. 
  • Chemicals: 18.5%, including pharmaceuticals to Nigeria, Egypt, and Kenya. 
  • Machines and Electricals: 12.59%, exported to Nigeria, South Africa, and Egypt. 
  • Economic Investments: India has invested over USD 12.37 billion in 206 infrastructure projects across 43 African countries, positively impacting millions of lives. 

Challenges for India-Africa Trade: 

• Non-Tariff Barriers:  
  • Indian agricultural exports face obstacles due to the EU’s food safety standards, affecting products like chilies and basmati rice.  
  • These standards impact trade with African nations aligned with EU regulations.  
  • Advocating for relaxed standards can enhance trade and competitiveness in both markets.
• WTO Reforms:  
  • The 13th WTO Ministerial Conference failed to reach consensus on issues like agriculture and technology transfer, affecting developing nations, including Africa.  
  • Lack of reform in subsidies and tariffs hampers African competitiveness and imposes barriers on Indian exports.  
  • Unresolved WTO issues can damage Indian product reputations in African markets compared to Chinese goods. 
• Debt Concerns:  
  • Rising debt in sub-Saharan Africa, nearly doubling in the past decade, creates economic instability.  
  • Many low-income countries face or are at risk of debt distress, challenging India-Africa trade. 
• Chinese Influence:  
  • China’s dominance in sub-Saharan Africa, including substantial exports and manufacturing, creates an uneven playing field.  
  • Criticisms of China’s debt diplomacy and lack of standardised debt documentation further complicate trade dynamics for India. 

Way Forward 

• Trade Agreements: Expanding agreements like the India-Mauritius CECPA is essential for boosting trade volumes with African nations. 
• Investing in SMEs: Supporting African SMEs, which account for 80% of employment, by providing low-cost materials can foster growth and create new opportunities for Indian exports. 
• Critical Minerals: Utilising Africa’s deposits of critical minerals such as cobalt and lithium can support India’s green energy transition and enhance trade. 
• Digital Innovations: India’s digital infrastructure, including UPI and ONDC, can improve business and quality of life in Africa, boosting trade and cooperation. 

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ) 

Prelims 

Q:1 Consider the following statements: (2016) 

The India-Africa Summit 

1. held in 2015 was the third such Summit 
2. was actually initiated by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1951 

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

1. 1 only 
2. 2 only 
3. Both 1 and 2 
4. Neither 1 nor 2 

Ans: (a) 

Mains 

Q:1 How does India see its place in the economic space of rising natural resource rich Africa? (2014) 

Q:2 Increasing interest of India in Africa has its pros and cons. Critically Examine. (2015) 

Source: HT 

Child Adoption in India 

Tags: GS – 2, Governance- Indian Constitution– Issues Related to Children– Human Resource 

Why in the news? 

• Over 18,000 adoptions since 2019; only 1,404 children with special needs find homes. 
• As of July 5, 2024, 420 children with special needs were waiting for adoption in childcare institutions across India, according to CARA.  
• The founder of NGO Families of Joy Avinash Kumar said that as of July 2024, 76% of the 1,709 children legally available for adoption were those with special needs 

Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) 

• About: 
  • Establishment: CARA is a statutory body created under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. 
• Function:  
  • It serves as the nodal authority for the adoption of Indian children, overseeing and regulating both in-country and inter-country adoptions.  
  • CARA manages the adoption of orphaned, abandoned, and surrendered children through recognized adoption agencies. 
• International Role: CARA is designated as the Central Authority for intercountry adoptions in line with the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption, 1993, to which India acceded in 2003. 

Eligibility for Adoption: 

• Who Can Be Adopted: 
  • Orphaned, abandoned, or surrendered children declared legally free for adoption by the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) under the JJ Act, 2015. 
  • Children of relatives (paternal or maternal uncles/aunts, or grandparents). 
  • Children surrendered by biological parents can be adopted by the step-parent. 
• Who Can Adopt: 
  • Individuals or couples who are physically and mentally stable, financially capable, and without life-threatening medical conditions. 
  • Married couples require a stable marital relationship of at least two years and the consent of both spouses. 
  • Single women can adopt children of any gender, while single men are restricted from adopting female children. 
  • A minimum age difference of 25 years between the child and the prospective adoptive parents is required. 
  • Couples with three or more children are generally not considered, except for adopting children with special needs or hard-to-place children. 

Status of Child Adoption in India: 

• Overview of Adoption: 
  • In India, the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA), part of the Ministry of Women and Child Development, regulates and monitors both in-country and inter-country adoptions.  
  • CARA operates in accordance with the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption, 1993, ratified by India in 2003. 
  • In 2019-20, India saw a total of 3,745 adoptions — 3,351 in-country and 394 international.  
  • Of the total number, only 56 boys and 110 girls with special needs were adopted, the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) said in its response to an RTI query filed by PTI.  
  • In 2020-21, a total of 3,559 adoptions were recorded including 3,142 in-country and 417 inter-country.  
  • Only 110 boys and 133 girls with special needs were adopted this year. The number of adoptions dropped marginally to 3,405 — 2,991 in-country and 414 international — in 2021-22.  
  • The total number of adoptions included 136 boys and 206 girls with special needs. In 2022-23, 3,441 adoptions — 3,010 in-country and 431 inter-country — were recorded, with 156 boys and 188 girls with special needs finding adoptive families.  
  • The number of adoptions in 2023-24 increased significantly to 4,029 — 3,580 in-country and 449 international.  
  • These included 135 boys and 174 girls with special needs.  

Legal Framework: 

• Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956 (HAMA):  
  • Governs adoption for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs. Adoption can be formalised through a “dattaka hom” ceremony, an adoption deed, or a court order. 
• Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 (JJ Act):  
  • Governs adoption for non-Hindu communities.  
  • Prospective adoptive parents must register on CARA’s portal, followed by a home study report by a specialised adoption agency. 
  • Adoption is finalised after a legally free child is referred. 
• Recent Developments: 
  • Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Amendment Act, 2021: Empowers District Magistrates (DMs) and Additional District Magistrates to issue adoption orders, a role previously assigned to civil courts. 
• Adoption Regulations-2022:  
  • Introduced to streamline the adoption process, mandating real-time uploading of adoption orders and case statuses by DMs and Child Welfare Committees.  
  • Since implementation, 2,297 adoption orders have been issued, addressing a significant number of pending cases. 

Major Challenges: 

• Lengthy and Complex Process: The adoption process in India is often prolonged and bureaucratic. Currently, over 30,000 prospective parents are waiting, while fewer than 7% of children are legally free for adoption. The process can extend up to three years, especially for children with special needs. 
• Illegal and Unregulated Practices: Instances of illegal activities such as baby trafficking and child-selling have been reported. In 2018, the Missionaries of Charity in Ranchi faced criticism for a baby-selling scandal. Unregistered adoption agencies also exploit vulnerable children and their families. 
• Returning Children Post-Adoption: An increasing number of adopted children are being returned to care institutions. CARA reported over 1,100 children returned by adoptive parents in the last five years. 

Way Forward: 

• Strengthening Adoption Laws:  
  • There is a need to review and update adoption laws to simplify the process, enhance transparency, and protect the child’s best interests.  
  • This includes streamlining paperwork, reducing delays, and addressing legislative gaps. 
• Post-Adoption Services:  
  • Comprehensive support services should be established to assist adoptive parents and children, including counselling, educational support, healthcare access, and guidance for managing post-adoption challenges. 
• Awareness and Education:  
  • This involves informing the public about adoption benefits, procedures, and legal aspects, as well as fostering positive attitudes and dispelling misconceptions and stigma associated with adoption. 

Conclusion: 

Despite growing awareness and acceptance of adoption in India, the process is hindered by delays and systemic issues. Addressing these challenges through timely legal procedures, improved communication, and a more inclusive approach could help provide homes for more children. 

Source: TH 

Fallouts of Lithium Mining 

Tags:GS – 1, Geography- Distribution of Key Natural Resources– Mineral & Energy Resources 

Why in the news? 

• Recently, A new study reveals that Chile’s Atacama salt flat is sinking 1 to 2 cm annually due to lithium brine extraction.  
• This extraction process involves pumping salt-rich water to the surface and evaporating it through ponds to recover lithium. 

What is Lithium Mining? 

• Methods of Extraction: Lithium mining primarily involves two techniques: brine extraction and hard-rock mining. 
• Brine Extraction: This method accounts for 66% of global lithium production. It involves pumping underground brine to the surface, where the water is allowed to evaporate, leaving behind lithium carbonate.
• Hard-Rock Mining: This method involves extracting lithium-bearing minerals from rock through conventional mining techniques. 
• Production Trends: 
  Lithium production has seen a significant increase over the past decade. 
• Global Output: The global lithium production surpassed 100,000 metric tons for the first time in 2021, marking a fourfold increase from 2010. 
• 2022 Production: In 2022, the estimated global production of lithium was approximately 130,000 metric tons. 

Lithium Reserves and Mining in India: 

Lithium Reserves and Mining Challenges in India: 

• Discovery of Lithium Reserves: 
  • Jammu and Kashmir: The Geological Survey of India (GSI) first identified lithium inferred resources of 5.9 million tonnes in Reasi district, Jammu and Kashmir. 
  • Rajasthan: GSI subsequently discovered a larger reserve of lithium in Degana, Nagaur district, Rajasthan. This reserve is estimated to be capable of meeting 80% of India’s total lithium demand. 
  • Auction of Lithium Block: The Ministry of Mines has auctioned India’s first lithium block located in Korba district, Chhattisgarh (Katghora region). 
• Environmental Challenges of Lithium Mining: 
  • Water Depletion: Extracting one ton of lithium requires around 500,000 litres of water, leading to significant depletion of water resources in arid regions and affecting local communities and ecosystems. 
  • Soil and Water Contamination: The extraction process involves chemicals like sulfuric acid, which can contaminate soil and water sources, posing risks to human health and wildlife. 
• Carbon Emissions:  
  • Lithium mining, especially from hard rock sources, is energy-intensive, requiring substantial electricity for crushing, grinding, and chemical separation.  
  • This often relies on non-renewable energy sources, increasing carbon emissions and the carbon footprint of lithium production. 

Fallouts of Lithium Mining in Chile: 

Impact of Lithium Mining: 

• Environmental Fallouts: 
  • Global Perspective: Research indicates that lithium mining has led to significant environmental damage, particularly in countries such as Chile. 
• Satellite Observations: 
  • Data Collection: Satellite data from 2020 to 2023 reveal deformations in the Earth’s crust at the Atacama salt flat, one of the world’s largest lithium sources. 
• Impacts of Mining Activities: 
  • Areas of Concern: The most severe deformations are observed in regions with intensive lithium-rich brine pumping. 
  • Cause of Subsidence: Rapid pumping of brine exceeds the natural recharge rate of aquifers, resulting in subsidence, or the downward vertical movement of the Earth’s surface. 

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ) 

Prelims 

Q:1 Which one of the following pairs of metals constitutes the lightest metal and the heaviest metal, respectively? (2008) 

1. Lithium and mercury 
2. Lithium and osmium 
3. Aluminium and osmium 
4. Aluminium and mercury 

Ans: (b) 

Mains 

Q:1 Despite India being one of the countries of Gondwanaland, its mining industry contributes much less to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in percentage. Discuss. (2021) 

Source: IE 

Polygraph Test 

Tags: GS – 2,GS Paper – 3, Government Policies & Interventions 

Why in the news? 

• Recently, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been authorized to conduct a polygraph test on the main suspect in the rape and murder case involving a postgraduate doctor at Kolkata Medical College. 
• This polygraph test is expected to assist investigators in verifying the consistency of the suspect’s statements and detecting any potential deception. 

What is a Polygraph Test? 

• About: 
  • Polygraph or Lie Detector Test: A procedure that measures and records various physiological indicators such as blood pressure, pulse, respiration, and skin conductivity while a person answers a series of questions. 
  • Assumption: The test is based on the premise that physiological responses triggered during deception differ from normal responses. 
  • Procedure: Numerical values are assigned to each physiological response to determine whether the person is truthful, deceptive, or uncertain. 
  • Historical Context: A test similar to the polygraph was first conducted in the 19th century by Italian criminologist Cesare Lombroso, who used a machine to measure blood pressure changes in criminal suspects during interrogation. 
• Different from Narco-Analysis Test: 
  • Narco-Analysis: Involves administering sodium pentothal to the accused, inducing a hypnotic or sedated state believed to neutralise imagination, rendering the individual incapable of lying and more likely to reveal truthful information. 
• Accuracy of Tests: 
  • Controversial Nature: Polygraph and narco tests are not scientifically validated as 100% accurate and remain contentious within the medical community. 
  • Use in Investigations: Despite the controversy, investigative agencies have increasingly used these tests as a “softer alternative” to torture for extracting truth from suspects. 
• Note: 
  • Brain Mapping: A test that uses imaging to study the brain’s anatomy and function, helping doctors assess if brain function is normal and identifying areas controlling movement, speech, and vision. 

What is the Legal Admissibility of a Polygraph Test? 

• Violation of Article 20(3): 
  • Article 20(3): Polygraph, narco-analysis, and brain mapping tests conducted without the accused’s consent violate Article 20(3) of the Indian Constitution, which protects against self-incrimination. 
  • Protection: This article ensures that no individual accused of an offence is compelled to testify against themselves. 
• Necessity of Consent: 
  • Mandatory Consent: As these tests involve the accused providing potentially self-incriminating information, their consent is required to avoid breaching constitutional rights. 
• Judicial and Human Rights Concerns: 
  • Rights and Freedoms: The use of narco-analysis and similar tests raises significant concerns about judicial integrity and human rights, particularly with respect to individual rights and freedoms. 
• Criticism from Courts:
  • Violation of Rights: Courts have frequently criticized these tests as they can constitute mental torture, infringing on the right to life and privacy guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution. 

What are the Landmark Judgments Related to Polygraph Tests? 

• Selvi v. State of Karnataka & Anr (2010): 
  • SC Ruling: The Supreme Court ruled on the legality and admissibility of narco tests, stating that involuntary administration of narco or lie detector tests constitutes an intrusion into an individual’s “mental privacy.” 
  • Fundamental Right: The court held that narco tests violate the fundamental right against self-incrimination under Article 20(3), which ensures that no person accused of an offence shall be compelled to be a witness against themselves. 
  • Self-Incrimination: A legal principle where a person cannot be forced to provide information or testify against themselves in a criminal case. 
• D.K. Basu v. State of West Bengal (1997): 
  • SC Ruling: The Supreme Court ruled that the involuntary administration of polygraph and narco tests amounts to cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment under the context of Article 21, which protects the Right to Life and Liberty. 
• State of Bombay v. Kathi Kalu Oghad (1961): 
  • SC Ruling: The Supreme Court of India determined that the right against self-incrimination under Article 20(3) does not extend to physical evidence (e.g., fingerprints, handwriting, blood, and voice samples), voluntarily given information, and identification procedures (e.g., line-ups and photo arrays). 
• Other Observations by the SC: 
  • Reliability: The SC noted that narco tests are neither reliable nor conclusive as evidence, as they are based on assumptions and probabilities. 
  • Admissibility: Information or material discovered with the help of voluntarily administered test results can be admitted under Section 27 of the Evidence Act, 1872 (now Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam). 
• Section 27 of the Evidence Act:  
  • Allows admissibility of information provided by an accused in police custody if it leads to the discovery of a fact.  
  • Only the portion of information directly related to the discovered fact can be proven, irrespective of whether it amounts to a confession. 
• NHRC Guidelines: The court emphasised that the ‘Guidelines for the Administration of Polygraph Test on an Accused,’ published by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in 2000, must be strictly followed. 

What NHRC Guidelines on Polygraph Tests? 

• Voluntary Consent: 
  • Accused’s Agreement: The accused must voluntarily agree to undergo the polygraph test, with the option to refuse. 
• Informed Consent: 
  • Awareness: Before agreeing, the accused should be fully informed by the police and their lawyer about the test’s purpose, procedure, and legal consequences. 
• Recorded Consent: 
  • Formal Record: The accused’s consent must be formally recorded in the presence of a Judicial Magistrate. 
• Documentation: 
  • Court Proceedings: During court proceedings, the police must provide evidence that the accused voluntarily agreed to the test, documented by the lawyer and presented to the judge. 
• Clarification of Statements: 
  • Statements during Test: The accused should be made aware that any statements made during the polygraph test are treated as statements to the police, not as confessions. 
• Judicial Consideration: 
  • Evaluation Factors: Judges consider various factors, such as the length of the accused’s detention and the nature of the interrogation, when evaluating the results of a polygraph test. 

Source: ET 

Classical Languages 

Tags: GS-2, polity & Governance  – languages 

Why in the news? 

• Recently, the centres for the promotion of classical Telugu, Odia, Kannada, and Malayalam have demanded autonomy for their effective functioning. 

• Classical Language Status Criteria 
  • Historical Continuity: The language must have a documented history spanning at least 1,500-2,000 years, evident in early texts. 
  • Cultural Heritage: It should possess a significant body of ancient literature that is esteemed as a cultural heritage by generations of its speakers. 
  • Literary Originality: The language’s literary tradition should be original and not derived from another speech community. 
  • Distinctiveness: There should be a clear distinction between the classical language and its modern form, potentially indicating a discontinuity between the classical language and its later forms or offshoots. 
• Recognized Classical Languages : India currently recognizes the following six classical languages: 
  • Tamil (2004) 
  • Sanskrit (2005) 
  • Telugu (2008) 
  • Kannada (2008) 
  • Malayalam (2013) 
  • Odia (2014) 
• Benefits of Classical Language Status 
  • International Awards: Two major international awards are given annually to scholars of eminence in the language. 
  • Centre of Excellence: Establishment of a Centre of Excellence for Studies in the Classical Language. 
  • Academic Promotion: The University Grants Commission (UGC) is requested to establish Professional Chairs in Central Universities dedicated to the classical language. 

Source: TH 

National Quantum Mission (NQM) 

Tags: GS-3, Science & Technology- Quantum Technology 

Why in the news? 

• Recently, India’s first quantum computer was set for launch under the National Quantum Mission. 

Objective 

• The National Quantum Mission (NQM) aims to advance India’s quantum technologies across four key verticals: quantum computing, communication, measurement, and sensing. This comes after a delay of nearly four years. 

Funding & Structure 

• Funding: The mission has been allocated nearly ₹6,000 crore. 
• Structure: Plans include establishing four Section 8 companies under premier institutions like IITs and IISc, which will lead activities across the identified verticals. 

About National Quantum Mission (NQM) 

• Launch: The National Quantum Mission (NQM) was launched in 2023. 
• Lead Agency: Department of Science and Technology (DST). 
• Duration: The mission spans over eight years (2023-2031). 
• Goals: 
  • Development of intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits using platforms like superconducting and photonic technology. 
  • Establishment of satellite-based secure quantum communications, with a range of 2000 km within India and extension to other countries. 
  • Development of highly sensitive magnetometers in atomic systems and precision atomic clocks for timing, communication, and navigation. 
  • Design and synthesis of quantum materials such as superconductors, novel semiconductor structures, and topological materials to fabricate advanced quantum devices. 

Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) 

• Focus: Four T-Hubs will be instituted in premier academic and national research and development institutes. 
• Purpose: These hubs will ignite new knowledge through fundamental and applied research and drive R&D activities forward. 

Applications: The mission will have applications across various sectors, including: 

• Healthcare and diagnostics 
• Defence 
• Energy 
• Data security 

How Do Quantum Computers Work? 

• Qubit: Quantum computing uses the qubit as the basic unit of information instead of the conventional bit. 
• Superposition: The key characteristic of quantum computing is the coherent superposition of ones and zeros, enabling complex computations beyond the capabilities of classical computers. 

Source: BS 

Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) 

Tags: GS-2, Polity & Governance- Health , GS – 3, science & Technology- Scientific Innovations & Discoveries 

Why in the news? 

• Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES), Recently cases surged in Gujarat, leading to a significant health crisis that predominantly affected children and resulted in multiple fatalities. 

About Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES): 

• Characteristics: 
  • AES is marked by the sudden onset of high-grade fever, convulsions, altered sensorium, and multi-organ dysfunction. 
  • Additional symptoms often include vomiting, diarrhoea, and, in severe cases, respiratory failure with nasal bleeding. 
• Causes: 
  • The syndrome can be triggered by various pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites, as well as exposure to toxins and chemicals. 
• Diagnosis Challenges: 
  • Diagnosing AES is complicated due to symptom overlap with other viral infections such as Chandipura Vesiculovirus (CHPV), Enterovirus, Meningitis, and Japanese Encephalitis. 

Specifics of the Gujarat Outbreak: 

• Geographical Spread: 
  • The outbreak affected 26 of Gujarat’s 33 districts, impacting both rural and urban regions.  
  • Six major cities reported cases, with some patients arriving from neighbouring states like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra for treatment. 
• Patient Zero: 
  • The first confirmed AES case in Gujarat involved a four-year-old girl from Aravalli district, who sadly passed away before a CHPV diagnosis could be confirmed. 
• Fatalities and Caseload: 
  • As of August 19, 2024, Gujarat reported 178 AES cases, with 78 fatalities. Among the deceased, 28 children (36%) tested positive for CHPV, underscoring the outbreak’s complexity. 

Ministry-Wise Initiatives: 

• Ministry of Health and Family Welfare: Strengthening and expanding JE (Japanese Encephalitis) vaccination programs, Enhancing public health interventions, Improving clinical management of JE/AES (Acute Encephalitis Syndrome) cases. 
• Ministry of Jal Shakti: Ensuring the provision of safe drinking water. 
• Ministry of Women and Child Development: Providing high-quality nutrition to vulnerable children. 
• Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment: Establishing District Disability Rehabilitation Centers (DDRCs) for disability management and rehabilitation. 
• Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs: Ensuring the supply of safe drinking water in slums and urban areas. 
• Ministry of Education: Providing special educational facilities for children with disabilities. 

Source: IE 

Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) 

Tags: GS Paper – 2 , Polity & Governance- Government Policies & Interventions 

Why in the news? 

• Recently, The Union Home minister Amit Shaw inaugurated the zonal office of the Narcotics Control Bureau in Chhattisgarh’s Raipur. 

About Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB): 

• Constitution and Headquarters: 
  • Established on 14th November 1985, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. 
  • It was constituted under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act). 
  • The NCB’s headquarters are located in Delhi. 
• Functions and Responsibilities: 
  • Coordination of Actions: The NCB coordinates actions by various offices, State Governments, and other authorities under the NDPS Act, Customs Act, Drugs and Cosmetics Act, and any other applicable laws for enforcing provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985. 
  • International Obligations: It implements countermeasures against illicit traffic in compliance with international conventions and protocols that are currently in force or may be ratified by India in the future. 
  • International Assistance: The NCB provides assistance to foreign authorities and international organisations to facilitate global coordination and action for the prevention and suppression of illicit drug trafficking. 
  • Domestic Coordination: It coordinates actions with other ministries, departments, and organisations on matters related to drug abuse. 
• Enforcement and Intelligence:
  • The NCB functions as an enforcement agency through its zonal offices. 
• Zonal Offices: These offices collect and analyse data on narcotic drug and psychotropic substance seizures, study trends and modus operandi, disseminate intelligence, and cooperate closely with Customs, State Police, and other law enforcement agencies. 

Source: BS 

Mass Wasting 

Tags: GS-1, Geography- Geographical Features & Their Location 

Why in the news? 

• Recently, A new study on the high frequency of mass wasting events in the Sedongpu Gully of the Tibetan Plateau since 2017 with more than 68% of the total 19 identified mass-wasting events occurring in this period. 

About Mass Wasting: 

• Definition and General Characteristics: 
  • Mass wasting refers to the downslope movement of rock and soil under the influence of gravity. 
  • it is driven by gravity and occurs when slope stability is compromised. 
• Causes of Mass Wasting: 
  • Slope Stability: Mass wasting occurs when a slope becomes too steep to remain stable with the existing material and conditions. 
  • Factors Influencing Stability: The stability of a slope is determined by the angle of the slope and the shear strength of the accumulated materials. 
  • Triggers: Common triggers include rapid snow melt, intense rainfall, earthquake shaking, volcanic eruptions, storm waves, stream erosion, and human activities. Excessive precipitation is the most common trigger. 
• Types of Mass-Wasting Events: 
  • Classification: Mass-wasting events are classified based on the type of movement and material involved. They exhibit common morphological surface features. 
• Common Types: 
  • Rockfalls: Movement of loose material or blocks of bedrock. 
  • Slides: Sudden movement of rock and soil down a slope. 
  • Flows: Dominantly liquid material movement, such as debris flows. 
  • Creep: Slow, gradual movement of soil and rock. 
• Geological Terms: 
  • Landslides: A general term for fast-moving geologic material during mass wasting. 
  • Rock Topples/Rock Slides/Rock Falls: Terms used depending on the dominant motion of moving blocks of bedrock. 
• Movement Rates and Hazards: 
  • Mass-wasting movements can be slow or rapid. Rapid movements, such as debris flows, can be particularly dangerous. 

Sedongpu Gully and the Great Bend of the Tsangpo River: 

Sedongpu Gully: 

• Location and Dimensions: 
  • Situated within the Sedongpu Glacier and its valley. 
  • The valley extends 11 kilometres in length and covers an area of 66.8 square kilometres. 
• Flow and Significance: 
  • The gully flows into the Yarlung Zangbo River (also known as the Tsangpo River) near the Great Bend. 

The Great Bend of the Tsangpo River: 

• Geographical Features: 
  • The Tsangpo River meanders around Namcha Barwa Peak (7,782 meters) and Gyala Peri Peak (7,294 meters). 
  • It forms one of the deepest canyons on Earth, stretching 505 kilometres in length and 6,009 meters in depth. 
• Location and Hydrology: 
  • Located near the border of Arunachal Pradesh in Tibet, where the Tsangpo River is referred to as the Siang River. 
• Confluence and Further Flow: 
  • In Assam, below the Great Bend, the Siang River converges with the Diwang and Lohit rivers to form the Brahmaputra River. 
  • The Brahmaputra flows into Bangladesh, where it is known as the Jamuna River. 

Source: TH 

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