Daily Current Affairs MCQs: 19th February 2025 - Bank Exams MCQ

The significant change being challenged is the removal of the Chief Justice of India from the selection panel responsible for appointing the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners. This alteration raises concerns that it may undermine the independence and integrity of the electoral process, as the involvement of the judiciary is seen as a safeguard against political influence. An interesting fact is that the independence of election bodies is crucial for maintaining public trust in democratic systems, and many countries have established various methods to ensure that their electoral commissions remain impartial.

The main concern about the new selection process for Election Commissioners is that it may lead to increased executive interference in appointments. Critics argue that the absence of the Chief Justice of India in the selection committee diminishes the checks and balances that are essential for maintaining the independence of the Election Commission. This process now includes only political figures, such as the Prime Minister and a Union Cabinet Minister, alongside the Leader of the Opposition, raising fears about potential biases and the integrity of electoral oversight. An interesting fact is that the independence of electoral bodies is crucial for the health of democracy, as it helps ensure free and fair elections.

The 2023 Act introduces a significant change by removing the Chief Justice of India (CJI) from the selection committee responsible for appointing the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners. This alteration raises questions about the legislative process and its implications for the independence of the Election Commission. Removing the CJI could be seen as a move that may dilute judicial oversight in the appointment process, which has traditionally been viewed as a safeguard against political influence. An interesting fact to note is that the independence of electoral bodies is crucial in preserving the integrity of democratic processes, which is why such changes are closely scrutinized.

Reinstating the Chief Justice of India in the selection panel is aimed at enhancing the independence of the Election Commission. This approach seeks to ensure that the selection process is free from political bias and executive influence, thereby reinforcing the neutrality of the Election Commission. A strong judicial presence in the selection process can help maintain the integrity of this crucial institution, which plays a vital role in upholding democratic principles and ensuring fair elections. Interestingly, judicial oversight is a common practice in various democracies, reflecting a global trend towards safeguarding electoral integrity.

The recent notification of the eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) aims to enhance conservation efforts and protect the unique biodiversity of Sariska Tiger Reserve. This action highlights the ecological significance of the area and underscores the need for protective measures to maintain its ecological balance. Interestingly, Sariska was the first reserve in the world to successfully relocate tigers, which showcases its commitment to wildlife conservation.

The primary goal of the strategic partnership agreement between India and Qatar is to double the bilateral trade to $28 billion by 2030. This ambitious target reflects the commitment of both nations to enhance their economic ties, which include significant investments and cooperation in various sectors. The focus on increasing trade is essential for sustaining economic growth and strengthening bilateral relations, making it a pivotal aspect of their partnership. An interesting fact is that Qatar’s investment in India, particularly through its Sovereign Wealth Fund, is expected to play a crucial role in achieving this trade target.

The strategic partnership between India and Qatar aims to significantly enhance their economic relationship by doubling bilateral trade to almost $30 billion by 2030. This ambitious target reflects both countries' commitment to strengthening their economic ties and facilitating growth in various sectors, including trade, investment, and cultural exchange. An interesting fact is that Qatar's strategic location and wealth from natural resources make it a key player in the Gulf region, benefiting its trading partners like India.

The Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 provides a structured framework that emphasizes less adversarial and more cost-effective methods for resolving disputes, which is a significant advantage over traditional court proceedings. This approach not only saves time and resources but also helps maintain better relations between parties by fostering a more collaborative environment. An interesting fact is that many businesses prefer arbitration due to its confidentiality, which protects sensitive information during dispute resolution.

Under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, courts have a limited role, which includes appointing arbitrators and enforcing arbitral awards when necessary. This limited judicial intervention is designed to uphold the integrity of the arbitration process while ensuring that parties can rely on the finality of arbitration outcomes. An additional point of interest is that this approach allows for a quicker resolution of disputes, which is often a critical factor for businesses operating in fast-paced environments.

The Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 mandates confidentiality in arbitration proceedings, which is crucial for maintaining the privacy of sensitive business information. This requirement protects the interests of the parties involved, allowing them to engage in open discussions without the fear of public disclosure. A noteworthy aspect of this confidentiality is that it can contribute to preserving business relationships, as parties are more likely to resolve disputes amicably when sensitive information is kept private.