UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 10 August 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Economy

Clean Plant Programme to Boost Horticulture Sector

Source: Deccan Herald

Why in News?

The Cabinet has approved the Clean Plant Programme (CPP) with an outlay of Rs 1,766 crore under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH).

About

Horticulture involves producing, utilizing, and enhancing fruits, vegetables, spices, condiments, ornamental plants, plantation crops, and medicinal and aromatic plants. It contributes about 33% to the agricultural Gross Value Added to the Indian economy. India stands as the second-largest producer of vegetables and fruits globally, following China.

Performance in 2023-24

• India's horticulture production in 2023-24 is estimated to be 352.23 million tonnes, a 0.91% decrease from 2022-23.
• Increases in production include fruits, honey, flowers, plantation crops, spices and aromatics, and medicinal plants.
• Fruits: 112.63 million tonnes, with increases in banana, lime/lemon, mango, guava, and grapes.
• Vegetables: 204.96 million tonnes.
• Tomatoes: 208.19 lakh tonnes, a 1.93% increase from 2022-23.

MIDH Objectives

• Enhancing Production and Productivity: Focuses on improving yield and quality through better planting materials, resource management, and modern technologies.
• Post-Harvest Management: Aims to reduce losses by developing storage, processing, and marketing infrastructure.
• Promoting Sustainable Practices: Encourages eco-friendly practices like organic farming and integrated pest management.
• Capacity Building: Provides training and technical support to farmers for adopting modern practices.
• Market Access: Aims to strengthen the supply chain for better domestic and international market access.

Key Components

• National Horticulture Mission (NHM): Develops horticulture in states and union territories.
• Horticulture Mission for North East and Himalayan States (HMNEH): Focuses on specific needs of these regions.
• National Bamboo Mission (NBM): Promotes bamboo cultivation and its value chain.
• Coconut Development Board (CDB): Develops the coconut sector.
• Central Institute of Horticulture (CIH): Provides technical support and training in the North Eastern Region.

Clean Plant Programme (CPP) Approved

The Union Cabinet approved the CPP with an outlay of Rs 1,766 crore to transform India's horticulture sector. The programme, proposed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, aims to improve the quality and productivity of fruit crops nationwide. It will address virus infections in horticultural crops, impacting productivity and quality.

• Implemented by: National Horticulture Board in association with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).

Key Components of the Programme

• Establishment of nine world-class Clean Plant Centres (CPCs) across India with advanced labs.
• Implementation of a robust certification system under the Seeds Act 1966.
• Infrastructure support to large-scale nurseries for efficient multiplication of clean planting material.

The CPP aims to provide affordable access to clean plant material for all farmers, engage women farmers, and benefit farmers, nurseries, consumers, and boost exports. It aligns with sustainable practices, reducing dependency on imported materials.

GS2/Polity

Office of Vice President of India

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

As many as 50 Opposition MPs, sources said, have signed a resolution to bring a no-confidence motion against Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar under Article 67(B) of the Indian Constitution.

• The Article states that the Vice-President can be removed by a resolution of the Rajya Sabha passed by an effective majority and agreed upon by the Lok Sabha with a simple majority.

About Vice President (Responsibilities, Election, Qualification, Term, etc.)

Vice President of India:

• The Vice President of India is the second-highest constitutional office in the country, following the President of India.
• Established under Article 63 of the Constitution, the office of the Vice President plays a crucial role in the legislative and executive branches of the Indian government.

Key Responsibilities:

Chairman of the Rajya Sabha:

• The primary responsibility of the Vice President is to serve as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States), the upper house of Parliament.
• In this capacity, the Vice President presides over the sessions of the Rajya Sabha, ensuring that debates and discussions are conducted smoothly and in accordance with the rules of procedure.

Acting President:

• In the event of a vacancy in the office of the President, or if the President is unable to perform their duties due to absence, illness, or any other reason, the Vice President serves as the Acting President until a new President is elected or the President resumes office.

Succession:

• The Vice President is next in line to succeed the President in case of death, resignation, or removal of the President.
• However, the Vice President does not automatically assume the role of the President; rather, the position is temporary until a new election is conducted.

Election Process:

• The Vice President is elected by an electoral college consisting of members of both houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) through a system of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote.
• The election is conducted by the Election Commission of India.

Qualifications:

• To be eligible for the office of Vice President, a candidate must be:
  • A citizen of India.
  • At least 35 years of age.
  • Qualified to be elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha.

Term of Office & Removal:

• The Vice President serves a five-year term but can be re-elected for subsequent terms.
• The Vice President may resign from office by submitting a resignation to the President.
• Under Article 67(B) of the Constitution, the Vice President can also be removed by a resolution passed by a majority in the Rajya Sabha and agreed to by the Lok Sabha.
• It explicitly says that for moving this resolution "at least fourteen days’ notice" has to be given.

GS2/Polity

Need to Balance Trial Delays and Bail Rights Under PMLA Sec 45

Source: Times of India

Why in news?

The recent news involves the Supreme Court granting bail to former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. The apex court highlighted the significance of considering the delay in trial and extensive pre-trial detention as reasons to relax stringent bail conditions in cases related to money laundering. Specifically, the Court emphasized that the right to bail should be viewed within the framework of Section 45 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

About

• This principle was initially articulated in the 1977 significant ruling of the 'State of Rajasthan vs Balchand alias Baliya' case. The judgment underscored that bail should only be denied in situations where there is a risk of the accused absconding, obstructing justice, engaging in repeat offenses, or intimidating witnesses.
• This concept has been referenced in various cases subsequently, reinforcing its importance in upholding personal liberty.
• SC invoking this principle from time to time
• In 2011, the court granted bail to five accused in the 2G spectrum case, emphasizing that bail should be the norm.
• Similarly, in 2019, bail was granted to P Chidambaram in the INX Media case, despite the serious economic offenses, affirming the unchanged fundamental jurisprudence of bail.
• In November 2020, interim bail was extended to journalist Arnab Goswami by the Supreme Court, underlining the importance of personal liberty and bail as the standard practice.
• CJI DY Chandrachud, during his address at the All India District Judges Conference in March 2024, expressed concerns about the diminishing adherence to this principle in lower courts, stressing the need for judges to prioritize personal liberty and comply with established legal standards.

Section 45 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)

• This section delineates the conditions stipulated for granting bail, stating that no accused individual shall be granted bail unless certain criteria are met.
• Essentially, this section sets a high threshold for bail approval. The negative language within the provision itself indicates that bail is not the norm but an exception under the PMLA.
• These dual conditions establish stringent requirements for an accused.
• Before the 2019 amendments to the PMLA, individuals accused of crimes related to money laundering were automatically presumed guilty of the original crime (referred to as the "scheduled offense").
• Delay in trial and prolonged imprisonment are valid grounds for bail approval, even in cases governed by stringent laws like the PMLA.
• The bench emphasized that the right to a speedy trial is a sacred right.
• The Supreme Court noted that trial courts and High Courts often adopt cautious approaches when granting bail.

GS2/Polity

US Antitrust Ruling Against Google and its Implications

Source: Indian Express

Why in news?

The US District Court of Columbia accused search giant - Google - of using its dominant position in the online search market by cutting exclusive deals with smartphone makers such as Apple and Samsung.

• The Court ruled that Alphabet Inc's (parent company of Google) $26 billion payments to make its search engine the default option on smartphone web browsers violated US antitrust law.

What is the US Antitrust Ruling Against Google?

• Google violated antitrust laws to maintain a monopoly over "general search services" and "general search text ads."

Consequence of Google's Position as the Default General Search Engine (GSE)

• This gives Google an unseen advantage over its rivals because many users simply stick to searching with the default.
• Google's search engine currently processes an estimated 8.5 billion queries per day worldwide.

What Steps have been Taken in India to Address Google's Monopoly?

• In 2022, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 1337.76 Crores on Google.
• Following this verdict, Google announced that it would allow Indian users to choose a default search engine of their choice.

Implications of the US Antitrust Ruling Against Google

• This landmark judgment could lead to a new precedent on how Big Tech firms conduct their business affairs.
• It could fundamentally change the structure and nature of digital businesses as Google is linked to a range of digital services.
• It might incentivize firms such as Apple and Samsung to build their own rival search engines.
• Terminating exclusive deals can help consumers find alternative search engines.

GS1/Geography

Juanga Tribe

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The District Level Committee of Keonjhar in Odisha cleared the hurdle for habitat rights under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) to the Juanga, a particularly vulnerable tribal group, by approving the claim recently.

About Juanga Tribe:

• The Juanga community, also known as Juang, is a group of indigenous people living in Odisha's Keonjhar district.
• They are among the 13 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups out of the 62 tribes in Odisha.
• The Juang, once called Patuas due to their leaf skirts, now prefer clothing bought from local markets.
• Language: They speak Juang, which is part of the Austroasiatic language family.
• Occupation: While they traditionally practiced shifting cultivation, some now engage in settled agriculture. They occasionally hunt, with some Juangs skilled in basket weaving.
• They are adept at crafting decorative combs and tobacco cases and have started raising fowl, pigs, goats, and cows for extra income.
• Political Council: The community has maintained its traditional political council. The Pradhan, the formal head, is chosen based on capabilities rather than heredity.
• The Pradhan plays a key role in making decisions on secular matters.
• Population: Odisha's Juang population was recorded at 47,095 in the 2011 Census.

GS3/Science and Technology

Pinaka-MK3

Source: India Today

Why in News?

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is equipping India with a formidable new weapon: the Pinaka-MK3, which is currently under development.

What is Pinaka?        

• Pinaka is a type of Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) created by the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), a part of the DRDO.
• It can effectively target various types of enemies and structures, including troops, vehicles, communication hubs, airports, and storage areas.
• Features:
  • Includes a launcher vehicle with multiple tubes, a reloading and loading vehicle, a replenishment vehicle, and a command post vehicle.
  • The launcher has two pods, each containing six rockets, capable of covering an area of 700 x 500 square meters in just 48 seconds.
  • The Pinaka rocket, sized at 214 mm, carries a 100-kilogram payload and can be equipped with various warheads like anti-tank mines and high-explosive devices.
  • During firing, the launcher system is supported by four hydraulically-operated outriggers.
  • The launcher is mounted on a Tatra truck for easy mobility.
  • India has different versions of the Pinaka system, with varying ranges: Pinaka Mk-1 (48 km), Pinaka Mk-I Enhanced (60 km), and Pinaka Mk-II (90 km).

About Pinaka-MK3:

• The upgraded version continues the legacy of the original Pinaka system.
• DRDO is developing two versions of the Pinaka-MK3 rocket launcher.
• The initial model is anticipated to reach a distance of 120 kilometers or more.
• Subsequent versions will extend this range to 300 kilometers.
• The Pinaka-MK3 travels at a speed of 5757.70 kilometers per hour.
• It is capable of engaging distant foes and aerial threats.
• Operable in all weather conditions, it serves as versatile equipment.

GS3/Economy

Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT)

Source: Live Law

Why in News?

The Supreme Court, in a plea filed by news portal NewsClick for a stay on the income tax demand, directed that pending disposal of the appeal filed before the ITAT, there shall be a stay of further recovery of an outstanding amount.

About Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT):

• It is a legal body established in January 1941, specializing in handling disputes related to Direct Taxes Acts.
• Initially started with six Members forming three Benches in Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai, the number of Benches has grown, with 63 Benches in 27 cities today.
• Each bench includes an accountant member and a judicial member.
• The President of ITAT forms benches from the members of ITAT.
• A special bench with three or more members may be set up in certain cases to resolve income tax appeals.
• ITAT acts as the final body to resolve tax disputes, providing a platform for taxpayers and tax authorities.
• It handles appeals under the Income Tax Act of 1961 and operates under the Ministry of Law and Justice.
• Who can appeal to ITAT? A taxpayer dissatisfied with an assessment order or any other decision made by an income-tax authority.
• Appeals are commonly filed by taxpayers challenging orders from the Commissioner of Income-tax (Appeals).
• The income-tax department also has the right to appeal against decisions by the Commissioner of Income-tax (Appeals) to ITAT.
• Decisions made by ITAT are final unless a significant legal issue arises, leading to an appeal to the High Court.
• ITAT operates under the jurisdiction of regional High Courts and must comply with their regulations.
• ITAT is subordinate to both regional High Courts and the Indian Supreme Court.

GS3/Environment

Hoverflies

Source: NDTV

Why in News?

Three Kashmiri scientists recently discovered a new species of hoverfly that mimics the wasp in the high-altitude alpine forests.

About Hoverflies:

• Hoverflies, also known as 'flower flies' or 'syrphid flies', belong to a family with around 6,000 insect species in the fly order, Diptera.
• Their different names come from how they fly around flowers.
• They are present all over the world, from mild regions to warm areas.
• Hoverflies have yellow patterns that make them look like wasps or bees, but they don't sting.
• They can be distinguished from wasps and bees by having only one pair of wings.
• These flies have a special vein that looks like another wing vein.
• These insects come in various sizes and colors, from small and thin to big, hairy, yellow, and black.
• They have a usual fly head with short feelers and big eyes.
• Beneficial Insect:
  • Adult hoverflies eat nectar and pollen, which helps pollinate many different places.
  • The young of many hoverfly types eat aphids, mites, and small bugs, which helps control these pests.
  • Some hoverflies help recycle important nutrients.