UPSC Daily Current Affairs- 13th September 2023 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

Explorations at Megalithic Dolmen Site near Moodbidri

Subject: Art and Culture

Why in News?

Recent archaeological explorations near Moodbidri in Dakshina Kannada have unveiled a fascinating array of terracotta figurines, offering insight into the megalithic culture of the region.

About Megalithic Dolmen Site

• Megalithic Culture: The megalithic culture is renowned for its distinct burial practices and the use of iron in ancient India, with dolmens being a significant part of this culture.
• Dolmen Features: Dolmens were characterized by the arrangement of colossal stone slabs known as orthostats, forming a square room. These chambers were sealed with another massive stone slab as a capstone. Typically, a round or U-shaped entrance, referred to as a port hole, was carved into the eastern slab.
• Variety of Names: This intriguing architectural phenomenon was known by various names in South India, such as Kalmane, Pandavara Mane, Moriyara Mane, and Moriyara Betta, indicating its popularity among the local populace.

Key Findings at the Site

• Dating to 800-700 BC: The unearthed figurines have been dated to approximately 800-700 BC, providing valuable insights into the historical timeline of the dolmen site.
• Nine Dolmens: The Mudu Konaje site stands as one of the largest megalithic dolmen complexes, comprising nine dolmens situated on the slopes of a stone hill.

Terracotta Figurines found

• Cow Bovines: Two cow bovines were identified among the figurines. One is a solid handmade representation with a bull’s head, measuring approximately 9 cm in height and 5 cm in width. This figurine exhibits distinct femininity, with attached breasts. It features applique ornamentation and a grove line from the right arm to the left side of the neck.
• Peacocks: Two peacock figurines were discovered. One is a solid peacock, measuring about 11 cm in height and 7 cm in width, and is colored with red ochre.
• Mother Goddess: A torso of a mother goddess was found, devoid of head, hands, and legs.

Significance

• Chronology Determination: The cow bovine figurines discovered within the dolmens offer crucial insights into dating the dolmen structures.
• Terracotta Insights: The terracotta artifacts found in megalithic burials provide valuable material for studying the Bhoota cult or Daiva Aradhane in coastal Karnataka.
• Cultural Parallels: The cow bovines, especially the Cow goddess, draw parallels with megalithic terracotta figurines in Malampuzha, Kerala, and Egypt.

Source: The Hindu

TRIFED’s Artisanal Treasures

Subject: Art and Culture

Why in News?

The G20 Summit witnessed a showcase of India’s rich tribal heritage and craftsmanship, curated and presented by TRIFED (Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India), Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

Longpi Pottery

• Named after the village of Longpi in Manipur. The Tangkhul Naga tribes practice this exceptional pottery style. 
• Unlike most pottery, Longpi does not resort to the potter’s wheel. All shaping is done with the hand and with the help of molds. 
• The characteristic gray- black cooking pots, the stout kettles, quaint bowls, mugs and nut trays, at times with a handle of fine cane are trademarks of Longpi.

Chhattisgarh Wind Flutes

• It is curated from the  ‘Sulur’ bamboo  by the Gond Tribe of Bastar in Chhattisgarh.
• Unlike traditional flutes, it produces melodies through a simple one-handed twirl.Craftsmanship involves meticulous bamboo selection, hole drilling, and surface etching with fish emblems, geometric lines, and triangles. 
• Beyond music, the ‘Sulur’ serves utilitarian purposes, helping tribal men ward off animals and guide cattle through jungles.

Gond Paintings

• The Gond tribe’s artistic brilliance shines through their intricate paintings, reflecting their deep connection to nature and tradition. 
• They start with dots, calculating image volume, which they then connect to form outer shapes filled with vibrant colors.

Gujarat Hangings

• The Gujarati Wall Hangings are crafted by the Bhil & Patelia Tribe in Dahod, Gujarat.
• The material used is cotton cloth and recycled materials along with mirror work, zari, stones, and beads.

Araku Valley Coffee

• Araku Valley Arabica Coffee is from the picturesque Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh.
• It is produced organically and boasts a distinguished reputation for its rich flavor, invigorating aroma, and unmatched purity.

Sheep Wool Stoles

• Bodh, Bhutia and Gujjar Bakarwal tribes from Himachal Pradesh/Jammu & Kashmir exhibit their ingenuity with pure sheep wool, fashioning a diverse range of apparel, from jackets to shawls and stoles. 
• Sheep wool threads are woven into intricate diamond, plain, and herringbone patterns.Originally they were made in monochromatic colors white, black, and gray, however dual-colored designs now dominate.

Rajasthan Artistry Unveiled: Mosaic Lamps, Ambabari Metalwork, and Meenakari Crafts

• Glass Mosaic Pottery captures the mosaic art style, meticulously crafted into lamp shades and candle holders. When illuminated, they unleash a kaleidoscope of colors, adding vibrancy to any space.
• Meenakari is an art of decorating metal surfaces with vibrant mineral substances, a technique introduced by the Mughals. Delicate designs are etched onto metal, creating grooves for colors to nestle in. Each hue is fired individually, creating intricate, enamel-adorned pieces.
• Metal Ambabari Craft curated by the Meena Tribe, also embraces enameling, a meticulous process that elevates metal decoration. Today, it extends beyond gold to metals like silver and copper.

Source: Indian Express

India urges Sri Lanka to fulfill commitments for Tamil aspirations

Subject: International Relations

Why in News?

India has expressed its concerns about the slow progress made by Sri Lanka in fulfilling its commitments to address the aspirations of the Tamil community.

• India’s representative at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva emphasized the inadequacy of progress.

Tamil issue in Sri Lanka

• Violent persecution against the Tamil population erupted in the form of the 1956, 1958, 1977, 1981, and 1983 anti-Tamil pogroms in Sri Lanka.
• Over 13 years since the end of Sri Lanka’s civil war, in which tens of thousands of civilians were killed and disappeared, survivors continue demanding justice and accountability for war-time crimes.
• In the post-war years, Sri Lanka’s human rights defenders have frequently flagged concerns over persisting militarisation, especially in the Tamil-majority north and east; repression, and the shrinking space for dissent.

Why discuss this?

• Reconciliation and Human Rights: Despite the war’s conclusion, the country still faces challenges in reconciling its ethnic divisions and ensuring the protection of human rights.
• Economic Crisis: In addition to its unresolved conflict, Sri Lanka has experienced a severe economic crisis that began in the previous year, leaving a significant portion of its population vulnerable. The crisis has led to increased poverty levels and food insecurity for many households.

UN Human Rights Council’s Concerns

• Political and Democratic Reforms: The UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights highlighted the delay in implementing political and democratic reforms, even a year after a significant protest movement.
• Food Insecurity: UNHRC pointed out that approximately 37% of households in Sri Lanka face acute food insecurity, indicating the extent of the economic challenges.
• Political Participation: Delays in holding local government elections and reconstituting Provincial Councils have limited citizens’ political participation and free expression.
• Land Acquisition: The UN official raised concerns about escalating tensions in Sri Lanka’s north and east due to land acquisition for military installations, conservation efforts at Hindu or Muslim sites, and forestry protection.

India’s Position

• Power Devolution: India reiterated its support for the aspirations of the Tamil community for equality, justice, dignity, and peace.
• Limited sovereignty: It also emphasized its commitment to the unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty of Sri Lanka by implementing the 13th Amendment.

UN Review and Sri Lanka’s Response

• The UN Human Rights Council is currently reviewing Sri Lanka’s commitments, and there will be no vote on a resolution at this session.
• While acknowledging Sri Lanka’s initiatives in truth-seeking and reconciliation, the High Commissioner’s report emphasized the need for urgent confidence-building measures for genuine reconciliation and transitional justice.
• The Sri Lankan government rejected the report and labelled previous Council resolutions as intrusive and polarizing.

Conclusion

• India’s call for Sri Lanka to fulfil its commitments to address Tamil aspirations reflects ongoing concerns about the progress of reconciliation and human rights in the country.
• The economic crisis and delays in political reforms have further complicated the situation, necessitating meaningful actions to promote genuine reconciliation and transitional justice.
• The review at the UN Human Rights Council serves as an important platform for monitoring Sri Lanka’s efforts in this regard.

Source: Indian Express

How fraternity in India is different from the idea enshrined in the Constitution

Subject: Polity and Governance

Why in News?

In the context of India’s independence struggle and the subsequent establishment of a constitutional democracy, the interplay of liberty, equality, and fraternity was deemed crucial for a diverse society on the brink of independence.

• This essay delves into the historical origins of fraternity, its journey through different civilizations, and its significance in India’s socio-political landscape.

Understanding Fraternity

• The concept of fraternity, often overshadowed by liberty and equality, plays a pivotal role in the realm of politics.
• Philosopher Angel Puyol, in his book “Political Fraternity: Democracy beyond Freedom & Democracy,” argues that fraternity is central to the emancipation and empowerment of people.

Origins of the Concept

• Ancient Greece: The roots of fraternity can be traced back to ancient Greece, where philosophers like Plato emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge and wisdom among individuals. This early discourse hinted at the notion of political fraternity.
• Medieval Europe: In the Middle Ages, fraternity found expression primarily through religion, especially within the context of Christian society in Europe. It began to evolve from a religious concept to a political one.
• French Revolution: The concept of fraternity gained prominence during the French Revolution of 1789, symbolized by the revolutionary triptych of ‘liberte, egalite, fraternite.’ Fraternity, in this context, became a fundamental principle of civic-political friendship.

Friendship among Equals

• Integral Value System: Fraternity thrived within community ties, with a foundation built on integral values. It prioritized the collective over the individual, gradually giving way to religious morality and a ‘way of life.’
• Shared History: For fraternity to flourish, individuals must share a harmonious past. This shared history should be amicable, free from ideological divisions rooted in social inequalities among different communities.

Fraternity in India’s Context

• Unique Societal Landscape: India’s fraternal bonds face unique challenges due to its history of social hierarchies and caste divisions. The shared history is marred by the caste system, hindering the principles of equality and liberty.
• Secular Conception: To foster fraternity in India, it must be rooted in politics, where caste privileges can be challenged. Fraternity should be cultivated through political conditioning, separate from moral considerations.

Role in Indian Constitution

• Constitutional Objective: The Indian Constitution recognizes the significance of fraternity in a society marked by various hierarchical social inequalities. It considers fraternity, along with liberty and equality, as a foundational political objective.
• Affirmative Actions: Measures like affirmative actions, including the reservation system, aim to establish equality among diverse social groups in terms of access to social and economic resources.

Limits to Fraternity

• Ignoring Inequalities: Fraternity loses its meaning if it overlooks social inequalities and promotes social solidarity built on animosity towards others. Such solidarity often perpetuates the status quo and reinforces privilege at the expense of the marginalized.
• Nationalism vs. Fraternity: Belligerent nationalism can replace the call for fraternity, casting religious minorities as enemies. This has historically led to social and political discrimination against religious minorities in India.
• Fundamentalism’s Impact: Fundamentalism, in any form, contradicts the essence of fraternity, as fanaticism is incompatible with true fraternity.

Conclusion

• In India, the coexistence of caste and political fraternity, given the prevailing social milieu, presents challenges. To foster political fraternity, it is imperative to address social inequalities and caste divisions.
• The future of Indian politics will determine whether fraternity or caste consciousness prevails, as the two are often incompatible.
• Achieving true political fraternity requires navigating these complexities while prioritizing the principles of equality, liberty, and solidarity across diverse social groups.

Source: The Hindu

International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA)

Subject: International Relations

Why in News?

In a global seminar organized by the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), President of India underscored the importance of safeguarding farmers’ rights.

About ITPGRFA

Source: The Hindu

New Spider Species

Subject: Environment and Ecology

Why in News?

Two new ‘shy’ spider species found, named after Great Indian Bustard

About New Spider Species

• These two species (Godawan and ‘Maldhok) are named in honour of the local name of the Great Indian Bustard.
• Characteristics of these spiders
  • The spiders are particularly shy, hiding under rocks or in crevices when disturbed.
  • They are maroon in colour, a unique feature they share with the other two known species in their genus, Palpimanidae.
  • They are ground species and have heavier bodies, their ability to disperse as spiders do by ballooning, shooting their web, and traipsing from one place to another is limited.
  • They stay confined to an area.

Key facts about Great Indian Bustard

• It is mainly found in the Indian subcontinent, is the flagship grassland species of India.
• It is one of the largest flying birds in the world, and India’s heaviest flying bird.
• Distribution:
  • Its population of about 150 in Rajasthan accounts for 95% of its total world population.
  • They are mainly in Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan, including the Desert National Park which is the natural habitat of the species.
  • Grasslands of Kutch in Gujarat which is home to second-largest bustard population in India.
  • Arid regions of Maharashtra (Solapur), Karnataka (Bellary and Haveri) and Andhra Pradesh (Kurnool)
  • It is the State bird of Rajasthan.
• Conservation status
  • IUCN: Critically Endangered.
  • CITES: Appendix I
  • The Indian Wildlife (Protection)Act, 1972: Schedule I

Source: Hindustan Times

What is Nipah Virus?

Subject: Science and Technology

Why in News?

The Kerala health department on Monday night sounded a health alert in Kozhikode after two people who died due to “unnatural” deaths in the district were suspected to have been infected with the Nipah virus (NiV).

About Nipah Virus

• Nipah virus infection is a zoonotic illness that is transmitted via animals to humans.
• The organism which causes Nipah Virus encephalitis is an RNA or Ribonucleic acid virus of the family Paramyxoviridae, genus Henipavirus, and is closely related to Hendra virus.
• It was first broke out in Malaysia and Singapore in 1998 and 1999.
• It first appeared in domestic pigs and has been found among several species of domestic animals including dogs, cats, goats, horses and sheep.
• Transmission
  • The disease spreads through fruit bats or ‘flying foxes,’ of the genus Pteropus, who are natural reservoir hosts of the Nipah and Hendra viruses.
  • The virus is present in bat urine and potentially, bat faeces, saliva, and birthing fluids.
• Symptoms
  • Typically, the human infection presents as an encephalitic syndrome marked by fever, headache, drowsiness, disorientation, mental confusion, coma, and potentially death
• Treatment: There is no definitive treatment available for the virus.

Source: Hindustan Times