UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 14th December 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Environment

Malayan Night Heron Spotted in Madurai

Source: Times of India

The Malayan Night Heron, a migratory bird native to Southeast Asia, has been officially recorded in Madurai for the first time, particularly near the Alagar Kovil hills. This sighting highlights the bird's migratory behavior and its expanding range.

• The Malayan Night Heron is also referred to as the Malaysian night heron or tiger bittern.
• This species is medium-sized and primarily nocturnal.
• It has been observed in northern Tamil Nadu, commonly found in Kerala and Karnataka.

Additional Details

• Appearance: The Malayan Night Heron is characterized by its rufous neck, a chestnut back with bars, a black cap adorned with a crest, and white-tipped primaries.
• Habitat: This bird thrives in dense subtropical forests and prefers low wetlands, streams, marshes, and swamps, as well as evergreen forests and reservoirs at moderate elevations.
• Diet: Its diet mainly consists of earthworms and beetles.
• Distribution: The species is found across India, Southeast Asia, the Philippines, and the East Indies. It is native to Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia, migrating to India during the winter months.
• Conservation Status: According to the IUCN, the Malayan Night Heron is classified as of least concern, indicating a stable population.

This recent sighting in Madurai is significant as it broadens the known range of the Malayan Night Heron in India, showcasing the region's ecological diversity and the bird's adaptability.

GS3/Environment

Key Facts about Chakki River

Source: Indian Express

A joint committee of officials has notified the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that the operations of stone-crushing units are significantly altering the course of the Chakki River at various locations.

• The Chakki River is a tributary of the Beas River.
• It flows through Himachal Pradesh and Punjab, merging with the Beas near Pathankot, Punjab.
• The river is primarily fed by snow and rainfall from the Dhauladhar mountains.
• Unregulated sand mining has led to severe ecological degradation, affecting the riverbed and banks.

Additional Details

• Chakki River: It is known for its ecological significance but faces challenges due to human activities, especially stone-crushing and sand mining.
• Beas River: Flows through Himachal Pradesh and Punjab; it is one of the five rivers that historically gave Punjab its name.
• Historical Names: The Beas River was referred to as Arjiki or Vipas in ancient Indian texts and as Hyphasis by the Ancient Greeks.
• Course of Beas River: Originates from the Rohtang Pass in the Himalayas, flows 290 miles (470 km) before merging with the Sutlej River at Harike Pattan, south of Amritsar.
• Major Tributaries: Includes Bain, Banganga, Luni, Uhal, and others like Chakki, Gaj, and Tirthan, contributing to the formation of the renowned Kullu and Kangra valleys.

The ongoing issues with the Chakki River highlight the need for sustainable practices to protect this vital waterway and its ecosystem.

GS3/Environment

NINE YEARS OF PARIS AGREEMENT

Source: Indian Express

The Paris Agreement, finalized on December 12, 2015, aimed to mitigate the severe impacts of climate change. However, nine years later, its effectiveness is questioned as the global climate situation continues to deteriorate.

• Global emissions have risen by 8% over the past nine years, increasing from approximately 49 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent to 53 billion tonnes.
• Average global temperatures have escalated from 1.1 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels to 1.45 degrees Celsius.

Additional Details

• Erosion of Trust Among Developing Nations: The failure of developed countries to meet their $100 billion annual climate finance commitment by 2020 has led to distrust. A recent proposal in Baku suggested increasing this to $300 billion by 2035, which is considered grossly inadequate given the trillions needed annually by developing nations.
• Equity Concerns: The Paris Agreement shifted responsibilities from developed nations, which were primarily accountable under the Kyoto Protocol, to a more generalized approach requiring all nations to determine their own climate actions, thus relieving developed countries of specific obligations.
• Geopolitical Dimensions: Developed nations often resist stringent climate commitments due to fears of economic repercussions. The potential withdrawal of the United States under Donald Trump's presidency posed a risk to global climate initiatives.
• Emerging Economies: Countries like China, which have become economic powers, face pressure from developed nations to contribute more to climate action, even as their historical emissions are frequently overlooked.
• Alternative Strategies by Developing Nations: An initiative from Vanuatu, supported by a UN General Assembly resolution, seeks guidance from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to define climate obligations, aiming for clearer legal repercussions for failing to meet commitments.

In summary, the Paris Agreement, while a critical framework for climate action, faces significant challenges and skepticism, particularly from developing nations that perceive unmet financial obligations and shifting responsibilities as barriers to effective climate governance.

GS3/Environment

Arctic Ice Melting - First Ice-Free Day in the Arctic Could Come by 2030

Source: Money Control

A recent study published in Nature Communications highlights the alarming possibility that the Arctic Ocean could witness its first ice-free day—defined as having less than one million square kilometers of sea ice—by the year 2030 or even earlier. This scenario is driven primarily by unprecedented levels of greenhouse gas emissions and is increasingly plausible due to ongoing human-induced climate change.

• Arctic sea ice is shrinking at a rate of 12.6% per decade, the fastest in at least 1,500 years.
• Significant greenhouse gas emissions are accelerating this decline, reaching record highs in 2023.
• The first ice-free day could occur as soon as September 2027 under certain climatic conditions.

Additional Details

• Geography and Climate: The Arctic region encompasses parts of Canada, the United States, Russia, and several Nordic countries. It is characterized by flat, treeless tundras and a significant ice cover, especially in Greenland.
• Flora and Fauna: The region supports limited plant life, primarily lichens, mosses, and grasses, with animals such as polar bears, seals, and migratory birds thriving in this unique ecosystem.
• Impact on Climate Change: The loss of Arctic sea ice enhances warming through the albedo effect, where darker ocean water absorbs more heat, leading to further climatic changes.

The implications of an ice-free Arctic are profound, affecting global weather patterns, rising sea levels, and the habitats of numerous species. It is crucial to address greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate these impacts and preserve the Arctic environment.

GS3/Environment

Shortfin Mako Shark Tagged in the Mediterranean

Source: DTE

A young shortfin mako shark has been tagged for the first time in the Mediterranean Sea by researchers from the United States, marking a significant milestone in marine research and conservation efforts.

• The shortfin mako shark is a large, predatory, and highly migratory species found in the open ocean.
• This species is known for its extraordinary leaping ability, often jumping great heights while hunting.

Additional Details

• Appearance: The shortfin mako is hydrodynamically designed with a pointed snout, a triangular dorsal fin, and a crescent-shaped caudal (tail) fin.
• Reproductive Characteristics: It is a yolk-sac ovoviviparous shark, which means it gives birth to live young. The developing embryos consume unfertilized eggs (oophagy) within the uterus during a gestation period that lasts between 15 to 18 months.
• Diet: This shark primarily preys on cephalopods and bony fish species, including mackerels and tunas.
• Habitat: The shortfin mako inhabits temperate and tropical ocean waters, and it can also be found near coastal areas where the continental shelf is short.
• Conservation Status: According to the IUCN, the shortfin mako shark is classified as critically endangered, and it is listed in CITES Appendix II.

The tagging of the shortfin mako shark in the Mediterranean is a crucial development for understanding and conserving this endangered species, highlighting the importance of ongoing research and monitoring in marine ecosystems.

GS3/Science and Technology

GenCast Model: A Breakthrough in Weather Prediction

Source: First Post

The GenCast model, developed by researchers at Google DeepMind, represents a significant advancement in machine-learning weather prediction, showcasing its ability to outperform traditional forecasting systems in various scenarios.

• GenCast utilizes a diffusion model approach akin to AI image generators.
• The model can generate multiple forecasts efficiently, simulating the complex behavior of the atmosphere.
• It predicts weather conditions for up to 15 days in just 8 minutes, a stark contrast to the hours required by conventional methods.

Additional Details

• Training Data: The GenCast model was trained on 40 years of historical weather data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) until 2018.
• Prediction Variables: It forecasts various atmospheric conditions, including temperature, pressure, humidity, and wind speed, across 13 altitudes on a global grid of 0.25-degree regions.
• Its probabilistic ensemble forecasting method allows for a more comprehensive range of possible weather scenarios, enhancing predictive accuracy.

The introduction of the GenCast model signifies a paradigm shift in weather forecasting, promising faster and more reliable predictions that could revolutionize how meteorologists and the public understand upcoming weather conditions.

GS2/Polity

One Nation One Election Proposal Is Not Representative, It Is Insincere

Source: Indian Express

On December 12, the Union Cabinet approved a proposal for implementing simultaneous elections across India, covering the Lok Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, and local bodies. This decision was based on the recommendations of a high-level committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind, which submitted its report in September 2024. While the proposal is touted for its potential benefits like cost reduction and administrative efficiency, it has sparked significant debate regarding its feasibility and implications for India's democratic framework.

• The proposal aims to streamline elections and reduce costs.
• The initiative has raised concerns about its impact on India's federal structure and democracy.
• Public feedback was largely supportive, but methodology criticized for being exclusionary.

Additional Details

• Historical Context of Simultaneous Elections: The concept dates back to the early years of India's Republic, where Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assembly elections were held simultaneously until 1967. The current push for simultaneous elections gained traction after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's advocacy in 2013.
• Concerns and Criticism: Critics argue that the proposal may centralize power, undermine regional parties, and dilute local issues. Moreover, the methodology of public consultations has been questioned for not adequately representing India's diverse population.
• Logistical Challenges: The proposal requires significant logistical arrangements, including conducting municipal and panchayat elections within 100 days of general elections, which could lead to disenfranchisement and is logistically daunting.
• Constitutional Implications: Implementing the proposal would necessitate substantial constitutional amendments, including a new Article 82A to standardize assembly tenures with the Lok Sabha, raising concerns about midterm elections and the feasibility of a unified electoral roll.

In conclusion, while the One Nation, One Election proposal has the potential to streamline electoral processes and reduce costs, it faces numerous challenges. These include logistical, financial, and constitutional issues that could undermine India's federal structure and democratic ideals. Without genuine consensus and transparent deliberation, this initiative risks becoming a mechanism for centralization rather than a tool for enhancing democratic governance.

GS2/International Relations

The Syrian Crisis and Its Implications for Iran and Regional Geopolitics

Source: Indian Express

The recent developments in Syria, particularly the potential fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, pose a significant challenge to Iran's regional influence. This shift threatens Tehran's ambitions to maintain its "Shiite crescent" strategy across the Middle East.

• The Assad regime's fall would undermine Iran's ability to project power in the region.
• Syria has historically been a crucial ally for Iran, facilitating support for groups like Hezbollah.
• Regional dynamics are likely to shift, with increased competition among powers such as Turkey and Gulf states.

Additional Details

• Bilateral Ties between Iran and Syria: The partnership between Iran and Syria, established after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, has been instrumental in extending Iranian influence in the Levant, allowing for the support of Hezbollah and other allies.
• Challenges for Tehran: The potential loss of Assad would result in a significant operational setback for Iran, as it would lose a key ally necessary for maintaining its strategic depth in the region.
• Geopolitical Implications: The collapse of Assad's regime is likely to create a power vacuum, intensifying competition among regional players and exacerbating sectarian tensions.

The evolving situation in Syria necessitates a reassessment of strategies by Iran and its allies, while also prompting responses from other regional and global powers. As the landscape shifts, the repercussions of these changes will be felt beyond the immediate region, affecting international relations and security dynamics.

GS1/Indian Society

Ayushman Arogya Mandirs

Source: The Statesman

In February 2018, the Indian government launched an initiative to establish 150,000 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs), previously known as Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs), with a target completion date of December 2022. As of July 31, 2024, the total number of operational AAMs has reached 173,881, surpassing the initial goal.

• The first AAM was inaugurated in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh on April 18, 2018.
• In the fiscal year 2018-19, over 17,000 AAMs became operational, exceeding the target of 15,000.
• Currently, there are approximately 160,000 AAMs across India.
• The National Health Policy of 2017 identified AAMs as a fundamental component of India's healthcare system.
• In 2023, the Union Health Ministry rebranded AB-HWCs with the tagline 'Arogyam Parmam Dhanam'.

Additional Details

• Aims and Objectives: The initiative aims to provide universal, free-of-cost, and accessible primary healthcare services to both rural and urban populations.
• Services Offered: AAMs provide a comprehensive range of services, including preventive, promotive, curative, palliative, and rehabilitative care.
• AAMs deliver a 12-package set of healthcare services.
• Sub-Health Centres (SHC) and Primary Health Centres (PHC) are being enhanced to broaden their healthcare offerings.
• Structural Mandate:The implementation is divided into two components:
  • Comprehensive Primary Health Care: The mission plans to establish 150,000 AAMs to cater to primary healthcare needs in both rural and urban areas.
  • Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY): This scheme offers health insurance coverage of ₹5 lakh per year to more than 10 crore vulnerable families for secondary and tertiary care.

In summary, the Ayushman Arogya Mandirs play a critical role in transforming India's healthcare landscape by ensuring accessible and affordable health services for all citizens.

GS3/Environment

No Indian City Meets WHO Air Quality Standards

Source: Indian Express

Recent findings published in Lancet Planet Health indicate that no individual in India resides in areas where the annual average pollution levels comply with the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations.

• WHO's revised air quality guidelines set stricter limits on harmful pollutants.
• Currently, 81.9% of India's population lives in areas exceeding national air quality standards.
• High levels of PM2.5 are linked to significant health risks and mortality rates.
• Addressing pollution sources is crucial for improving air quality and public health.

Additional Details

• WHO’s Revised Air Quality Guidelines 2021: The updated guidelines suggest that the annual mean concentration of PM2.5 should not exceed 5 µg/m³, a reduction from the previous guideline of 10 µg/m³ established in 2005.
• India’s National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS): Under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1981, the Central Pollution Control Board sets standards for 12 pollutants, with the current standard for PM2.5 being 40 µg/m³.
• Health Impact of Air Pollution: Exposure to elevated PM2.5 levels is linked to approximately 1.5 million deaths annually in India, with long-term exposure increasing risks for respiratory diseases and cardiovascular issues.
• Potential for Improvement: Aligning with NAAQS could prevent 300,000 deaths each year, while achieving WHO standards could save even more lives. Identifying sources of pollution, such as vehicular emissions and industrial activities, is essential for enhancing air quality.

In conclusion, the findings underscore the urgent need for policy interventions and public awareness to combat air pollution in India, striving to meet or exceed WHO guidelines to protect public health.

GS2/Governance

Athlete Biological Passport

Source: The Week

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has officially designated the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL) as an Athlete Passport Management Unit (APMU) to oversee the Athlete Biological Passport (ABP) program. This development is significant in the fight against doping in sports.

• The ABP is a sophisticated anti-doping mechanism that tracks an athlete's biological markers over time.
• It analyzes fluctuations in various parameters, including blood and steroid profiles, to promote fair play and safeguard clean athletes.
• The ABP enhances targeted testing, supports investigations, and serves as indirect evidence of doping violations.

Additional Details

• Haematological Module: This module focuses on blood doping markers and aims to detect the use of prohibited substances or methods that enhance oxygen transport.
• Steroidal Module: It monitors markers of steroid doping through urine and serum samples to identify the use of Endogenous Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (EAAS) administered exogenously.
• Endocrine Module: This module gathers data on markers related to human growth hormone (hGH) doping and the use of hGH analogs.
• The ABP program utilizes these modules to conduct targeted anti-doping tests on athletes with abnormal biological profiles.

The implementation of the ABP is crucial for maintaining integrity in sports, providing a robust framework for detecting doping and ensuring that athletes adhere to anti-doping regulations.

GS2/International Relations

Suspension of MFN Clause in India-Switzerland Tax Treaty

Source: Business Today

Switzerland has announced the suspension of the Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) clause under the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) with India, effective January 1, 2025. This decision may result in increased tax burdens for Indian companies operating in Switzerland and Swiss investors in India, which could significantly impact bilateral investments.

• Switzerland's MFN clause suspension could lead to higher tax rates for dividends.
• This move affects the investment landscape between India and Switzerland.
• The suspension is based on claims of lack of reciprocity from India.

Additional Details

• What is the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) clause? The MFN clause requires a country that grants a trade concession to one partner to extend the same benefits to all trading partners. This principle is fundamental to the World Trade Organisation (WTO).
• Purpose of MFN: The MFN clause aims to create a rules-based trading environment, minimizing the influence of political or economic power on trade rights.
• Exemptions to MFN: Certain exemptions exist under the WTO, including bilateral trade agreements and special access provisions for developing countries.
• Background of the India-Switzerland Tax Treaty: The DTAA was originally signed in 1994 and amended in 2010 to prevent double taxation of income.
• Supreme Court Ruling: In 2023, the Indian Supreme Court ruled that DTAA provisions require explicit notification under the Income-Tax Act, affecting the applicability of tax benefits.
• Implications of the Suspension: Following the suspension, dividends paid after January 1, 2025, will be taxed at a rate of 10% in the source state, impacting Swiss companies like Nestlé and the overall attractiveness of India for investments.

In conclusion, Switzerland's suspension of the MFN clause marks a notable shift in the tax treaty relations between India and Switzerland. While the intention may be to address reciprocity concerns, this move could discourage Swiss investments in India and complicate tax compliance for Indian entities. It underscores the necessity for mutual agreements and clarity in international tax treaties to ensure stability and fairness in cross-border trade and investment.