In News: A modern marvel emerges in Ayodhya, symbolizing India's cultural and spiritual essence, this new landmark stands as a testament to devotion to Lord Ram.

Major Features of the Ram Temple Main Complex

• Construction Materials
  • The grand structure is constructed without the use of iron or steel.
  • Stones used in the construction are sourced from Rajasthan's Bansi Paharpur area.
• Architectural Design
  • Built in the traditional Nagara style.
  • Dimensions: 380 feet long (east to west), 250 feet wide, and 161 feet high.
  • Each floor is 20 feet high, featuring 392 pillars and 44 gates.
• Percota Periphery
  • Surrounding the temple is a rectangular percota, a unique feature in north India.
  • Percota is 14 feet wide, spanning 732 meters.
• Aesthetic Elements
  • Stone carvings include images of Lord Hanuman, other deities, peacocks, and flower patterns.
  • Divine aesthetics contribute to the overall appearance.
• Decorative Touch
• Over 3,000 kg of flowers from 20 varieties used for decoration.

Main Entrance

• Ornate statues at the main entrance:
• Elephants, lions, Lord Hanuman, and Garuda.
• Statues made from sandstone sourced from Bansi Paharpur.

Green Complex

• Green Area
  • A significant portion (70%) of the complex designated as a green area.
  • Hundreds of trees contribute to the green surroundings.
• Environmental Considerations
  • Two sewage treatment plants within the complex.
  • Water treatment plant and dedicated electricity line from the power house.
• Fire brigade post with access to water from an underground reservoir.

Source: IE

In News: Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina secured a historic fourth consecutive term, with India promptly extending congratulations, underscoring their strong bilateral ties.

How India-Bangladesh Relations Have Thrived

• Historical Ties
  • Rooted in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, with crucial Indian support.
  • Periods of strain due to military regimes, resolved by Sheikh Hasina's leadership in 1996.
  • Bilateral cooperation expanded into Trade, Energy, Infrastructure, Connectivity, and Defence.
• Economic Cooperation
  • Steady growth in bilateral trade, reaching USD 18 billion in 2021-2022.
  • India-Bangladesh joint feasibility study for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2022.
  • Infrastructure projects like the Akhaura-Agartala Rail Link enhance connectivity.
• Infrastructure Development
  • India's Lines of Credit to Bangladesh surpass USD 7 billion since 2010.
  • Resolution of long-pending issues like the Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) in 2015.
  • Inauguration of the Akhaura-Agartala Rail Link in 2023 for improved connectivity.
• Energy Sector
  • Bangladesh imports nearly 2,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity from India.
  • Collaboration on the Rooppur Nuclear power plant project in 2018.
• Defence Cooperation
  • Joint Exercises - Army (Exercise Sampriti) and Navy (Exercise Bongo Sagar).
  • Shared border of 4096.7 km, the longest land boundary with any neighbor.
• Multilateral Cooperation
  • Engagement in regional cooperation through SAARC, BIMSTEC, and IORA.

Points of Tensions

• Transboundary River Waters
  • Only two treaties signed out of 54 common rivers, leading to ongoing negotiations.
• Illegal Migration
  • Concerns over illegal migration impacting resources and security.
  • Rohingya refugee crisis intensifying the issue.
• Drug Smuggling & Trafficking
  • Cross-border incidences of drug smuggling, human trafficking, and poaching.
• Chinese Influence
  • Bangladesh's active participation in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
  • Growing Chinese influence impacting India's regional standing.

Way Forward

• Cross-Border Challenges
  • Establish joint task forces to combat drug smuggling and human trafficking.
  • Shared intelligence and coordinated operations for disrupting illegal networks.
• Smart Border Management
  • Utilize AI and data analytics for efficient cross-border movements.
  • Ensure security while streamlining operations.
• Digital Connectivity
  • Establish a digital connectivity corridor focusing on high-speed internet, digital services, and e-commerce.
  • Create new avenues for trade, collaboration, and technological exchange.

Source: TH

In News: The first meeting of the Social Audit Advisory Body (SAAB) occurred at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi.

What is a Social Audit?

• Overview
  • A systematic, independent evaluation of an organization's social impact and ethical performance.
  • Focuses on aligning actions and policies with stated values, emphasizing community, employee, and environmental impact.
• Historical Context
• Coined by Howard Bowen in 1953 in the book "Social Responsibilities of the Businessman."

Key Features of Social Audit

• Fact-Finding Approach
  • Emphasis on understanding rather than blaming.
• Stakeholder Dialogue
  • Creates a platform for dialogue among diverse stakeholders.
• Grievance Redressal
  • Timely resolution of grievances.
• Democracy and Institutions
  • Strengthens democratic processes and institutions.
• People's Advocacy
  • Mobilizes public pressure for improved program implementation.

Types of Social Audits

• Organizational
  • Assessing a company's overall social responsibility efforts.
• Program-Specific
  • Focusing on the impact and effectiveness of specific programs.
• Financial
  • Reviewing social and environmental implications of financial decisions.
• Stakeholder-Driven
  • Involving various stakeholders in the auditing process.

Framework Associated with Social Audit in India

• MGNREGA 2005
  • Gram sabha responsible for monitoring work execution.
  • Independent social audit units mandated for community-driven verification.
• Meghalaya Community Participation Act 2017
  • First state-level legislation mandating social audits.
• BOCW Act Framework
  • Ministry of Labour & Employment's framework for social audits.
• Right to Information Act 2005
  • Enhances transparency and access to information.
• NRCSA
• National Resource Cell for Social Audit ensures social audits at state levels.

Challenges Related to Social Audit in India

• Lack of Standardization
  • Absence of standardized procedures leading to variations.
• Awareness and Capacity
  • Limited understanding hampers effective implementation.
• Limited Participation
  • Inadequate involvement of marginalized groups affects assessments.
• Political Interference
  • Influence from authorities compromises independence.
• Resource Constraints
  • Financial and human resource limitations impact effectiveness.
• Capacity and Training
  • Social audit units lack funds and trained professionals.

Way Forward

• Blockchain for Transparency
  • Explore blockchain technology for secure and tamper-proof audit information.
• Accessibility and Representation
  • Simplify processes and provide information in local languages.
• Diverse Participation
  • Encourage participation from marginalized groups through incentives.
• Standardization and Protection
  • Develop uniform guidelines for social audits and enact whistleblower protection.

Source: PIB

In News: The Centre has no plans to revise the RoDTEP scheme for exporters, despite the imposition of anti-subsidy duties by the US government.

Understanding the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) Scheme

• Introduction
  • Launched by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, effective from January 1, 2021.
  • Replaces the existing MEIS (Merchandise Exports from India Scheme).
• Objectives
  • Aims to ensure exporters receive refunds on previously non-recoverable embedded taxes and duties.
  • Intended to boost export volumes.
• Need for the RoDTEP Scheme
  • Originated in response to WTO ruling against India's export subsidy schemes.
  • WTO dispute panel recommended withdrawal of existing subsidy programs.
  • RoDTEP designed to make India WTO-compliant.
• Features of the RoDTEP Scheme
  • Refund of previously non-refundable duties and taxes, including Mandi tax, VAT, Coal cess, and Central Excise duty on fuel.
  • Automated credit system issued as a transferable electronic scrip by CBIC.
  • Quick verification facilitated through digitization.
  • Multi-sector coverage with a priority for labor-intensive sectors previously benefiting from the MEIS Scheme.
• Eligibility Criteria
  • Both manufacturer exporters and merchant exporters (traders) eligible.
  • Exported products must have India as the country of origin.
  • No turnover threshold for RoDTEP claims.
  • Special Economic Zone Units and Export Oriented Units also eligible.
  • Applies to goods exported via courier through e-commerce platforms, excluding re-exported products.
• Issues in RoDTEP Scheme Implementation
  • Global principle: Taxes and duties should not be exported.
  • Countervailing duties imposed by the US and EU against RoDTEP payments availed.
  • Challenges in obtaining detailed records of input taxes, particularly for hand-written invoices.
• Streamlining and proper training needed for exporters to comply effectively.

Source: BL

In News: Prime Minister Modi unveiled the 'Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana,' a government initiative to provide rooftop solar power systems to one crore households.

Previous Initiatives for Rooftop Solar Promotion

• Introduction
  • In 2014, the government launched the Rooftop Solar Programme.
  • Aiming for 40 GW cumulative installed capacity by 2022.
• Target Achievement and Extension
  • By the end of 2023, only 11 GW rooftop solar energy generated.
  • The deadline extended to 2026 due to unmet targets.
• Features of the Rooftop Solar Programme
  • Consumer benefits through DISCOM tendered projects or the National Portal.
  • DISCOMs' role limited to technical feasibility, net-meter installation, and system inspection.
  • Net metering allows credits for surplus solar energy added to the grid.
  • Monetary benefits for surplus power as per prevailing regulations.

Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana

• Overview
  • New scheme aiming to achieve 40 GW rooftop solar capacity.
• Implementation Details
  • Involves installing solar power systems on residential rooftops.
  • Aims to reduce electricity bills for the poor and middle class.
• Current Solar Capacity in India
  • Installed Capacity
    • Total solar power capacity: 73.31 GW (as of December 2023).
    • Rooftop solar capacity: 11.08 GW (as of December 2023).
  • State-wise Performance
    • Rajasthan leads in total solar capacity (18.7 GW).
    • Gujarat tops in rooftop solar capacity (2.8 GW).

Need for Solar Energy Expansion in India

• World Energy Outlook by IEA
  • India expected to witness the largest energy demand growth globally over the next 30 years.
  • IEA emphasizes the need for sustainable and secure energy sources.
• Renewable Energy Goals
  • India targets 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
  • A shift towards reliable and sustainable energy sources.

Source: IE

In News: ISRO has introduced the second-generation Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT-SG), a homegrown technology enabling fishermen at sea to send emergency messages from their boats.

Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT) and Second Generation DAT-SG

About the First Version of DAT

• Operational since 2010.
• Messages sent through communication satellites to INMCC (Indian Mission Control Centre).
• Alert signals decoded for identity and location of fishing boats.
• Information forwarded to MRCCs under the Indian Coast Guard for search and rescue operations.
• Over 20,000 DATs in use.

Introduction to DAT-SG

• Enhanced Capabilities
  • Builds upon the original DAT for improved maritime safety and communication.
• Acknowledgement Feature
  • Can send acknowledgements to fishermen activating distress alerts from sea.
• NavIC Receiver Module
  • UHF transmitter based on NavIC receiver module developed by ISRO.
  • Supports position determination and broadcast messages reception (NavIC messaging service).
• Advanced Features
  • Bluetooth Interface: Connects to mobile phones, enabling message reception and app-based reading in native languages.
  • Integration with Mobile Phones: Provides a widely-used platform for communication.
• SAGARMITRA Network Management System
  • Web-based system at INMCC.
  • Manages registered DAT-SGs.
  • Assists MRCCs in accessing real-time information for prompt Search & Rescue operations.
• Two-Way Communication
  • Capable of receiving messages from the control center.
  • Enables the central control station to send advance alerts to fishermen about events like bad weather or emergencies.
• Information Transmission
  • Can transmit details about Potential Fishing Zones (PFZs) to aid fishermen in locating productive areas.
• Operational 24/7
  • DAT-SG services are available 24x7, ensuring continuous support for fishermen in distress.

Source: ET

In News: A novel robot called FiloBot, inspired by plants, has been created to climb structures in a manner reminiscent of climbing vines.

About FiloBot

• Distinct from Conventional Climbing Robots
  • Unlike traditional climbing robots, FiloBot doesn't rely on pre-programmed movements.
  • It absorbs 3D printing filament and extends its length over time, resembling a creeper.
• Bioinspired Behaviors
  • Utilizes plant behaviors like phototropism, negative phototropism, and gravitropism.
  • Incorporates these natural behaviors into high-tech robots.
• Successful Tests
  • Demonstrated remarkable adaptability.
  • Adjusts its growth trajectory dynamically in response to changing light intensity.

Significance

• Equipping autonomous systems with transportable additive manufacturing techniques and bioinspired behaviors.
• Enables robots to navigate unstructured and dynamic environments.
• Capable of self-building infrastructure, expanding the potential impact of technology in robotics.

Other Similar Innovations

• NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory unveiled EELS 1.0, a snake-like robot.
• Crafted for exploration on rough terrains of planets and moons.
• Engineered to navigate diverse landscapes, including ice, sand, cliff walls, deep craters, and lava tubes.

Source: WION

In News: The India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR has started at the Special Forces Training School in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh.

About Exercise Khanjar

• Initiation
  • Commenced in December 2011 in Nahan, India.
• Edition and Frequency
  • 11th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise.
  • An annual event alternately conducted in both countries.
• Participants
  • Indian Army contingent (20 personnel) represented by The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces).
  • Kyrgyzstan contingent (20 personnel) represented by Scorpion Brigade.
• Objective
  • Exchange experiences and best practices in Counter Terrorism and Special Forces Operations.
  • Focus on Built-up Area and Mountainous Terrain under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
• Training Emphasis
  • Develop Special Forces skills.
  • Learn advanced techniques of insertion and extraction.
• Purpose
  • Strengthen defence ties.
  • Address common concerns of international terrorism and extremism.
• Showcasing Capabilities
• Provide an opportunity to display cutting-edge indigenous defence equipment.
• Achieve shared security objectives and foster bilateral relations.

Source: PIB

In News: The Chakaliya community in the secluded colony of Kookanam, near Karivellur Grama Panchayat in Kerala, is facing the imminent disappearance of its distinct language, Madhika.

About Madhika Language

• Chakaliya Community Language
  • Spoken by the Chakaliya community.
  • Lacks a written script.
• Distinct Influences
  • Despite similarities to Kannada, it can be perplexing due to diverse linguistic influences.
• Blend of Languages
  • Fusion of Telugu, Tulu, Kannada, and Malayalam.
  • Major influence from Havyaka Kannada, an archaic form of Kannada.
• Endangered Status
  • Facing extinction, especially with the younger generation favoring Malayalam.

Key Facts about Chakaliya Community

• Nomadic Origins
  • Originally a nomadic community.
  • Devotees of Thiruvenkatramana and Mariamma.
• Migration History
  • Migrated from hilly regions of Karnataka to northern Malabar centuries ago.
• Recognition and Categorization
  • Initially recognized as a Scheduled Tribe.
  • Later included in the Scheduled Caste category in Kerala.
• Historical Mention
• Referenced in the book "Caste and Tribes of Southern India."

Government of India's Language Preservation Initiative

• Scheme for Protection and Preservation of Endangered Languages of India (SPPEL)
  • Initiated by the Government of India.
  • Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL), Mysore, focuses on safeguarding languages spoken by fewer than 10,000 people.
• CIIL's Role
• Works on protection, preservation, and documentation of endangered languages.
• Aims to ensure the survival of all mother tongues/languages in India.

Source: TH

In News: Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in Assam recently welcomed two new mammalian species: the elusive binturong (Arctictis binturong) and the small-clawed otter.

About Binturong

• Largest Civet in India
  • Colloquially known as the bearcat.
  • Common names: Asian Bearcat and the Asian Civet.
  • Scientific name: Arctictis binturong.
• Behavior and Characteristics
  • Generally solitary and nocturnal.
  • Moves slowly and cautiously in trees.
  • Possesses scent glands under its tail for marking territory.
• Family and Tail Adaptation
  • Belongs to the same family as Civets, Genets, Mongooses, and Fossa.
  • One of only two carnivores with a prehensile tail (the other being the kinkajou).
  • Prehensile tail aids in climbing and provides stability.
• Habitat and Distribution
  • Medium-sized carnivore in the dense forests of South-East Asia.
  • Found in China, India, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Borneo.
• Conservation Status
  • IUCN: Vulnerable.
  • Wildlife Protection Act of 1972: Schedule I.
  • CITES: Appendix III.

Key Facts about Small-clawed Otter

• Adaptations for Aquatic Hunting
  • Exhibits partially webbed feet and short claws for adept hunting in aquatic environments.
• Distribution Range
  • Spans from India eastwards to Southeast Asia and southern China.
  • In India, primarily found in protected areas in West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and certain regions of Kerala within the Western Ghats.
• Habitat and Diet
  • Primarily inhabits freshwater habitats.
  • Diet includes fish and crustaceans.
• Threats
  • Faces threats from habitat destruction, deforestation, and reduction in prey biomass.
• Conservation Status
• IUCN: Vulnerable.
• Wildlife Protection Act of 1972: Schedule I.
• CITES: Appendix I.

Source: FE

In News: Amrit Kaal, the next 25 years, brings technological advancements and economic shifts. The CCI is vital for fostering a competitive, inclusive, and resilient economic environment.

Historical Context of Indian Economy

• India's Post-Independence Economic Evolution
  • Initial adoption of a closed economy model with import substitution and heavy government intervention.
  • Focus on self-sufficiency in various sectors.
  • Paradigm shift in the early 1990s with economic liberalisation reforms.
• Integration into the Global Market Post Economic Liberalisation
  • Embrace of market-oriented policies, liberalising trade, deregulating industries, and encouraging foreign direct investment (FDI).
  • Increased trade and investment flows, transitioning from an agrarian to a diverse and dynamic economy.
• India’s Current Economic Landscape
  • New Digital Revolution
    • Amrit Kaal ushering in a digital revolution.
    • Technology as a driving force behind business operations, innovation, and communication.
• Emerging New Business Models
  • Emergence of novel business models, especially in the digital and tech sectors.
  • Start-ups and tech-driven enterprises reshaping traditional industries.

The Significance of Competition Commission of India in India’s Economic Journey

• Enforcement Actions
  • Addressing Anti-Competitive Practices
    • CCI empowered to eliminate practices adversely affecting competition.
    • Investigation and action against anti-competitive agreements including cartelisation and price-fixing.
  • Scrutinising Dominant Companies
    • Examination of conduct of dominant companies to prevent market abuse.
    • Investigation into practices like predatory pricing and denial of market access.
  • Remedial Solutions
    • Authority to issue punitive and remedial solutions in case of anti-competitive behavior.
    • Measures designed to rectify market distortions and restore fair competition.
• Advocacy Measures
  • Fostering a Culture of Competition
    • CCI engages in advocacy to promote a competitive culture.
    • Collaboration with stakeholders, industry participants, and the public to encourage compliance with competition laws.
  • Educating Stakeholders
    • Pivotal role in educating stakeholders about the benefits of fair competition.
    • Enhancing awareness and understanding to create a market where businesses operate on a level playing field.
  • Policy Recommendations
    • CCI provides opinions and recommendations on policy matters affecting competition.
    • Ensuring the regulatory framework remains adaptive to evolving market dynamics.
  • Broad Mandates of CCI
    • Elimination of adverse practices harming competition.
    • Active promotion and sustenance of fair competition.
    • Commitment to consumer protection, ensuring fair prices, quality products, and diverse options.

New-Age Challenges to Competition Commission of India (CCI)

• Market Concentration
  • Digital economy characterized by the dominance of a few tech giants.
  • Potential for monopolistic positions, limiting competition.
• Stifling of Innovation
  • Concentration of power hindering innovation by smaller competitors.
• Predatory Pricing
  • Engagement in predatory pricing strategies by tech giants.
  • Risk of eliminating competition and establishing a monopolistic market.
• Exclusive Agreements
  • Use of exclusive agreements restricting access to products or services.
  • Creating barriers for new entrants and limiting consumer choices.

CCI’s Approach in Handling New-Age Challenges

• Need for a Better Understanding of the Global Nature of Digital Markets
  • Collaboration with international counterparts for effective global cooperation.
  • Development of strategies to address challenges posed by the transnational nature of digital markets.
• Need to Adapt Dynamic Technological Changes
  • Continuous updating of regulatory frameworks to address emerging challenges.
  • Adaptation to the dynamic nature of digital markets.
• Employ Multifaceted Approach to Regulation
  • Striking a balance between fostering innovation and implementing necessary regulations.
  • Nuanced regulatory interventions to avoid stifling innovation while preventing market distortions.

Conclusion

• As India's economy looks to the future, CCI's commitment to building resilience and agility becomes paramount.
• Proactive identification of potential market disruptions, research investments, expertise building, and technological leverage are key.
• CCI reiterates its commitment to steering India's economic journey towards competitiveness, inclusivity, and resilience on marking 75 years of independence.

Source: FE