UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 16 November 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Environment

Zebrafish

Source: Chinese astronauts successfully rear four zebrafish in space

Why in News?

Recently, Chinese astronauts successfully reared four zebrafish in space which was part of the Shenzhou-18 mission.

About

• Zebrafish Overview: Zebrafish are small freshwater fish, typically measuring between 2 to 3 cm in length. They are commonly found in tropical and subtropical areas.
• Name Origin: The species derives its name from the distinctive horizontal blue stripes that stretch along its body.

Habitat

• Geographic Distribution: Zebrafish are originally from the Indo-Gangetic plains in South Asia, where they thrive in environments such as paddy fields, stagnant waters, and streams.

Features

• Regenerative Abilities: Zebrafish are particularly interesting to developmental biologists due to their remarkable ability to regenerate almost all organs, including the brain, heart, eyes, and spinal cord.
• Advantages in Research: They offer significant advantages over traditional rodent models for studying vertebrate development and diseases. For example, a single breeding session can yield hundreds of embryos, allowing for extensive experimental studies.
• Optical Clarity: Zebrafish embryos are transparent, which facilitates live imaging and observation at the organism level during development.
• Breeding and Maintenance: These fish are easy to breed in large quantities and require relatively low maintenance costs.
• Genetic Similarity: About 70% of zebrafish genes have a corresponding form in humans, and over 80% of genes known to cause diseases in humans are also found in zebrafish.

Conservation status

• IUCN Status: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies zebrafish as Least Concern, indicating that they are not currently at risk of extinction.

GS2/International Relations

What is the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)?

Source: Corporate Finance Institute

Why in news?

US President Joe Biden and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping recently remarked on the challenging times ahead during an Asia-Pacific economic summit in Lima, which was overshadowed by Donald Trump's potential return to the White House.

About Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)

• APEC is a regional economic forum established in 1989.
• The primary goal of APEC is to promote free trade and investment.
• It aims to enhance cooperation in social and developmental areas to foster prosperity and sustainable, inclusive economic growth in the region.

What Does APEC Do?

• APEC facilitates the easy movement of goods, services, investments, and people across borders.
• Members work to expedite trade through improved customs procedures.
• APEC aims to create favorable business environments behind borders.
• It encourages the alignment of regulations and standards across the region.
• Over time, APEC has significantly reduced trade barriers, which has led to increased economic growth and international trade.

Member Countries

• Currently, APEC comprises 21 member economies.
• Each member is classified as an economy rather than a country, focusing on trade and economic interactions.
• The current member economies include:
  • Australia
  • Brunei
  • Hong Kong
  • New Zealand
  • Papua New Guinea
  • The Philippines
  • Indonesia
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Russia
  • Canada
  • The United States
  • Mexico
  • Peru
  • Chile
  • Malaysia
  • Vietnam
  • Singapore
  • Thailand
  • Taiwan
• The 21 APEC member economies collectively represent nearly 40% of the global population.
• They account for almost half of global trade and approximately 60% of the world's GDP.

APEC Economic Leaders Meeting

• This meeting occurs annually and is attended by the heads of government from all APEC member economies.
• Decisions made within APEC are achieved through consensus.
• Member commitments are made voluntarily.
• The APEC Secretariat, based in Singapore, coordinates APEC's activities.

Putrajaya Vision 2040

• In 2021, the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting endorsed the Putrajaya Vision 2040.
• This vision outlines future directions for APEC with three main priorities:
  • Open trade and investment
  • Innovation and digitalization
  • Sustainable and inclusive economic growth

GS3/Science and Technology

What is Methamphetamine?

Source: MedicalNewsToday

Why in News?

In a significant operation against drug trafficking, law enforcement agencies recently confiscated around 700 kg of methamphetamine from an international drug syndicate operating in Gujarat.

About Methamphetamine

• Methamphetamine, often referred to as meth, is a potent and highly addictive stimulant that impacts the central nervous system.
• This substance appears as a white, odorless, and bitter-tasting crystalline powder that can dissolve easily in water or alcohol.
• Initially developed in the early 20th century from its precursor, it was first used in nasal decongestants and bronchial inhalers.
• Similar to amphetamine, methamphetamine increases activity levels, promotes talkativeness, suppresses appetite, and induces feelings of euphoria or well-being.
• However, methamphetamine is more potent than amphetamine because it allows significantly larger quantities to enter the brain at comparable dosages.
• The use of methamphetamine in high doses can lead to severe health issues, including psychosis, brain hemorrhages, breakdown of skeletal muscle, and seizures.
• Chronic use can result in violent behavior, dramatic mood swings, and severe psychotic symptoms such as paranoia, delirium, auditory and visual hallucinations, and delusions.
• Its effects on the central nervous system are not only longer-lasting but also more detrimental compared to other stimulants.
• Methamphetamine is both powerful and relatively easy to manufacture, which contributes to its high potential for widespread abuse.
• Long-term consumption can lead to significant addiction issues, and abruptly stopping use can trigger withdrawal symptoms that may persist for months.

GS3/Environment

What is Scarlet Tanager?

Source: RARE BIRD SPOTTED IN UK: FIRST IN 40 YEARS

Why in News?

The rare bird, Scarlet Tanager, was recently spotted in the UK for the first time in 40 years.

About Scarlet Tanager

• It is a remarkably beautiful songbird that is indigenous to North America.
• Scientific Name: Piranga olivacea
• Habitat:
  • This bird breeds in deciduous and mixed deciduous-evergreen forests.
  • During winter, it inhabits forests and forest edges.
  • Scarlet Tanagers migrate to tropical forests in Central and South America for the winter months.
• Features:
  • They are medium-sized songbirds characterized by stocky bodies, averaging around seven inches in length.
  • They possess thick, rounded bills that are effective for both catching insects and consuming fruits.
  • The head is relatively large, while the tail is short and broad.
  • During the spring and summer, adult males are striking, displaying a brilliant red coloration with black wings and tails.
  • In contrast, females and immature birds in the fall exhibit an olive-yellow color with darker olive wings and tails.
  • After the breeding season, adult males shed their feathers and take on a plumage similar to females but retain their black wings and tails.
• Bird Calls:
  • The vocalization of the Scarlet Tanager is often likened to a "robin with a cold."
  • Its distinctive call, described as an emphatic "chip-burr," can help identify its location within leafy treetops.
• IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern

GS3/Environment

Avian Botulism

Source: Extreme weather may have triggered avian botulism, leading to 600 bird deaths in Rajasthan

Why in News?

High temperatures and reduced salinity in Sambhar Lake may have created conditions conducive to avian botulism, resulting in the mass deaths of migratory birds in Rajasthan.

About

• Avian Botulism is a disease caused by the consumption of a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which can lead to paralysis and is often fatal for birds.
• This bacterium’s spores are commonly found in wetland sediments and inhabit most wetland ecosystems. They can affect invertebrates such as insects, mollusks, and crustaceans, as well as many vertebrates, including healthy birds.
• There are seven different types of botulinum toxins identified (A-G), with wild birds primarily affected by types C and E.
• Environmental factors that may influence toxin production include elevated water temperatures and low oxygen levels within the water.

Key facts about Sambar Lake

• Sambhar Lake holds the title of the largest saltwater lake in India.
• It is situated within the districts of Nagaur and Jaipur in Rajasthan.
• The lake spans an area exceeding 200 square kilometers and is completely encircled by the Aravalli hills.
• Two significant ephemeral streams, namely Mendha and Runpangarh, along with various rivulets and surface runoff, contribute to the lake’s water supply.
• In 1990, Sambhar Lake was designated as a Ramsar site, recognizing its importance as a wetland.
• During the winter months, the lake attracts numerous migratory birds, making it a vital habitat.

GS2/Governance

How Govt’s Jeevan Pramaan has been faring?

Source: The Indian Express

Why in news?

• Pensioners, including those retired from government services, Defence, Railways, PSUs, and educational institutions, are required to submit a life certificate each year in November to ensure the continuation of their pension benefits. Since 2014, the introduction of Digital Life Certificates (DLCs) through the Jeevan Pramaan initiative has enabled pensioners to submit these certificates online, avoiding the necessity of visiting banks or post offices. 
• The Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW) is conducting its third DLC campaign from November 1-30 this year, featuring 1,900 camps aimed at assisting pensioners. For those who prefer traditional methods, physical submission of life certificates at banks or post offices remains available.

About

• This initiative, launched by the Government of India in 2014, allows pensioners to submit their life certificates digitally, thus eliminating the need for in-person visits to pension-disbursing authorities.

Nodal Ministry

• The Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions oversees this initiative through the Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW).

Features

• Convenience: Pensioners can submit life certificates from any location.
• Digital Access: Certificates are sent directly to the pension-disbursing authorities via a digital platform.
• Wide Reach: Submissions can be made at banks, post offices, and through biometric devices.
• Campaigns: Annual campaigns, such as the one in November, provide camps to assist pensioners in generating DLCs.

Challenges

• Digital Divide: Some pensioners, particularly in rural or remote areas, may lack access to digital resources or possess limited digital literacy.
• Technical Glitches: Biometric authentication can fail due to age-related issues, such as faded fingerprints.
• Awareness: A segment of pensioners remains unaware of the digital system and continues to opt for physical submissions.

Number
As of March 31, 2024, there are 64.88 crore central government pensioners, comprising:

• 10.09 lakh civilian pensioners
• 31.92 lakh Defence pensioners
• 15.25 lakh Railways pensioners
• 4.56 lakh telecom pensioners
• 3.04 lakh postal pensioners

Jeevan Pramaan numbers

• During the previous year's DLC campaign, a total of 1.47 crore certificates were generated, including 45.46 lakh from central government pensioners. 
• This year, it is anticipated that over 50 lakh central government pensioners will take part in the November campaign camps.

Authentication Methods

• The Jeevan Pramaan portal employs Aadhaar for biometric authentication, allowing pensioners to authenticate either independently or at designated camps. Since 2021, face authentication has also been offered as an alternative. 
• To generate a DLC, pensioners must have a linked Aadhaar number, a mobile number, and registration with the pension disbursing authority.
• If pensioners choose to use the app or website alone, a biometric device is necessary.

Campaign and Participation
Camps are organized in 800 cities across India, including at Indian missions abroad, with banks and post offices also hosting their own camps.

• Face Authentication: In the initial 11 days of the campaign, 31.02% of pensioners opted for face authentication, a notable increase from less than 20% in the previous year.
• DLC Generation: Between November 1-11, a total of 48.10 lakh DLCs were generated, with 63% using fingerprint authentication.
• Age-wise Distribution: In the first week, 45% of DLCs were for pensioners aged 60-70 years, 28% for those aged 70-80, and 21% for those below 60.
• Regional Distribution: The highest number of DLCs were generated in Maharashtra, followed by Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka.

Impact

• The success of this campaign signifies a major step towards digital empowerment for pensioners, significantly reducing the necessity for physical visits to pension offices each November.

GS3/Environment

NGT Issues Notice to Madhya Pradesh, Centre on Bandhavgarh Elephant Deaths

Source: The Indian Express

Why in News?

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken suo motu cognizance of reports concerning the unusual deaths of elephants in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh.

About Bandhavgarh National Park

• Bandhavgarh National Park is a prominent wildlife reserve situated in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh.
• It is recognized for having a high density of Bengal tigers and rich biodiversity, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists.

Geography and Terrain

• Location: Nestled in the Vindhya Hills of Madhya Pradesh.
• Area: Encompasses roughly 1,536 square kilometers, including its buffer zones.
• Landscape: The park features a combination of rugged hills, dense forests, grasslands, and meadows, highlighted by the Bandhavgarh Fort atop a significant hill.
• Water Bodies: Several perennial streams and waterholes are present, ensuring a steady water supply for wildlife.

Flora and Fauna

• The park is primarily covered with sal forests, interspersed with grasslands and bamboo groves.
• Medicinal plants and diverse tree species, including Dhobin, Tendu, and Saja, thrive in the area.
• Tigers: Bandhavgarh is famous for its tiger population, boasting one of the highest densities globally.
• Other Mammals: The park is home to leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, jackals, and various deer species like sambar and chital.
• Birds: Over 250 bird species inhabit the park, including Indian rollers, crested serpent eagles, and paradise flycatchers.
• Reptiles: Various snakes, lizards, and other reptiles can also be found within the park.

About National Green Tribunal

• Established in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, the NGT aims for the effective and timely resolution of cases related to environmental protection and conservation.
• The Tribunal provides relief and compensation for damages caused to individuals and property.
• It addresses various environmental disputes that involve multidisciplinary issues.
• India became the third country globally to create a specialized environmental tribunal, following Australia and New Zealand.
• The NGT operates independently of the procedures outlined in the Code of Civil Procedure 1908 and is guided by principles of natural justice.
• Orders and decisions from the Tribunal are enforceable as decrees in civil courts.

Mandate of NGT

• The NGT has the authority to hear all civil cases related to environmental matters and enforce laws listed in Schedule I of the NGT Act, including:
  • Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
  • Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977
  • Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980
  • Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
  • Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
  • Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991
  • Biological Diversity Act, 2002
• Any violations of these laws or orders made by the Government under these laws can be challenged in the NGT.
• It is important to note that the NGT does not have the authority to address matters related to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the Indian Forest Act, 1927, or various state laws concerning forests and tree preservation.
• The NGT is required to resolve applications or appeals within six months of filing.
• Appeals against NGT decisions can be made to the Supreme Court, typically within ninety days from the decision's communication.

NGT's Power to Initiate Suo Moto Action

• While the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 does not explicitly allow the NGT to take up cases independently, it can act on letters or communications regarding environmental issues.

News Summary

• The NGT has taken suo motu notice of the mysterious deaths of ten elephants in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, which are suspected to be linked to contaminated Kodo millet consumption.

Key Findings and Concerns

• Cause of Death: Initial investigations indicate that the elephants ingested Kodo millet tainted with mycotoxins, likely due to fungal growth in damp conditions, which poses severe health risks to both wildlife and livestock, including liver and kidney damage.
• Legal Implications: This incident may contravene the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, and the Environment Protection Act, 1986, raising serious questions about compliance with environmental regulations.
• Broader Risks: The NGT expressed concerns about the potential impact of such contamination on other wildlife and livestock that may come into contact with the affected crops.

Action Taken by the NGT

• The NGT has referred the case to its Central Zonal Bench in Bhopal.
• It emphasized the gravity of the situation, citing a Supreme Court ruling that bolsters its authority in environmental matters.

Significance

• This case highlights the urgent need for rigorous monitoring of wildlife habitats and food sources to prevent fatalities linked to contamination.
• It emphasizes the broader consequences of environmental non-compliance and its effects on biodiversity.

GS2/Governance

AI-enabled e-Tarang System

Source: Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff conducts annual Joint Electromagnetic Board Meeting 2024

Why in News?

Recently, the Ministry of Defence launched the AI-enabled e-Tarang System.

About

• The AI-enabled e-Tarang System is a specialized software created in partnership with the Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics (BISAG-N).
• This system aims to enhance the planning process for maintaining interference-free operation of defense equipment in both wartime and peacetime scenarios.
• It facilitates automated and efficient planning and management of the Defence Spectrum, which is crucial for modern defense capabilities.
• The system is designed to support the rapid decision-making process, thus allowing for the seamless incorporation of advanced technologies that are essential for contemporary defense applications.

Key facts about the BISAG-N

• BISAG-N is an Autonomous Scientific Society under the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) of the Government of India.
• The organization focuses on various activities including technology development and management, research and development, and facilitating both national and international collaborations.
• It is also involved in capacity building and supporting technology transfer and entrepreneurship in the field of geospatial technology.
• BISAG-N operates in three main domains: Satellite Communication, Geo-informatics, and Geo-spatial technology.

GS3/Science and Technology

Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR) Initiative

Source: HT

Why in news?

The Centre has recently introduced the Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR) initiative aimed at enhancing research capabilities in universities, particularly targeting central and state public universities.

Overview of PAIR Initiative

• The PAIR initiative is spearheaded by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF).

Objectives

• Encourage scientific creativity in institutions that have limited research facilities through mentorship from established institutions.
• Support research that is internationally competitive and yields significant outcomes.
• Facilitate the development of effective collaborative networks among various institutions.
• Enhance institutional advancement by:
  • Building and upgrading research infrastructure and capabilities.
  • Improving research quality.
  • Promoting best practices and a strong research culture.
• The initiative aligns with the goals outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to foster research excellence in public universities through a mentorship-driven hub and spoke model.
• In this model, established institutions (hubs) will support emerging institutions (spokes) in research endeavors, providing access to their resources and expertise, thereby strengthening India's research ecosystem.

Implementation Phases

• In its initial phase, hub institutions will consist of the top 25 ranked institutions according to the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) as well as Institutions of National Importance within the top 50 NIRF rankings.
• Spoke institutions will include central and state public universities, along with select NITs and IIITs.
• Future phases will broaden eligibility to include additional universities and institutions.
• Each network will consist of one hub and up to seven spoke institutions, allowing only one proposal per hub institution, with a requirement for diverse faculty teams from spoke institutions to participate.
• The program will also ensure regional diversity among the participants.
• The PAIR initiative is designed to stimulate innovation within emerging institutions by leveraging the mentorship provided by high-ranking institutions.

Key Facts about ANRF

• The ANRF was established under the ANRF 2023 Act.
• Its mission is to promote and nurture research and development (R&D) while fostering a culture of research and innovation across Indian universities, colleges, research centers, and laboratories.
• ANRF will serve as the apex body to guide the strategic direction of scientific research in India, as per the recommendations of the NEP.
• With the formation of ANRF, the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), which was established by parliamentary act in 2008, has been integrated into the ANRF.
• ANRF aims to create collaborations among industry, academia, government departments, and research institutions, facilitating participation from various stakeholders in scientific research and development.

GS2/Polity

Challenges in Urban Local Governance

Source: India Development Review

Why in News?

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India has raised significant issues regarding the status of urban local bodies (ULBs) in 18 states, which serve a population of 241 million. The report highlights fundamental problems in financial management, staffing, and functional independence, which hinder the objectives set forth by the 74th Constitutional Amendment.

About

• The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 granted constitutional recognition to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and established them as the foundational unit of governance in cities and towns.
• It created a framework for urban governance in India through the decentralization of powers and responsibilities.
• The amendment introduced Part IX-A into the Constitution, covering municipalities through Articles 243-P to 243-ZG.
• It mandates the devolution of 18 specific functions to ULBs as per Schedule 12 (Article 243W), which includes urban planning, public health, and water supply management.

Need for Robust ULBs

• With projections suggesting that 50% of India's population will live in urban areas by 2050, it is crucial to have strong urban governance systems in place.
• Empowered ULBs are vital for fostering economic growth, environmental sustainability, and democratic engagement within cities.

Key Findings from the CAG Report on ULBs

• Incomplete devolution of powers:
  • The 1992 amendment's intention to decentralize 18 functions to ULBs has only been partially fulfilled, with just 4 functions fully devolved after three decades.
  • Many states have not adhered to the "in-spirit reading" of the amendment, affecting 393 ULBs across 18 states, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, and Maharashtra.
• Financial gaps and dependency:
  • ULBs are facing a substantial 42% shortfall between their financial resources and spending needs.
  • Only 32% of their revenue comes from internal sources, with the remainder sourced from Union and state government assistance.
  • Property tax, a crucial revenue stream, only achieved 56% of its total demand realization.
• Limited expenditure on development:
  • Only 29% of ULB spending is directed towards developmental and programmatic initiatives.
  • Insufficient investments in civic programs adversely affect urban growth and residents' quality of life.
• Staffing issues:
  • ULBs are grappling with an average vacancy rate of 37% in sanctioned positions.
  • Recruitment powers are often limited, with 16 states restricting ULBs' control over staffing decisions.

Call for Strengthening ULBs: Recommendations by CAG:

• Enhance financial autonomy by allowing ULBs to manage taxation and user fees.
• Improve revenue collection methods to optimize property tax and other income sources.
• Focus on efficient fund utilization to ensure that allocated resources are effectively used for development projects.
• Strengthen decentralization by reviving efforts to politically and administratively empower ULBs.
• Encourage collaboration among government entities, academia, and civil society to achieve the goal of empowering ULBs.

Conclusion

• The findings from the CAG underscore the pressing need to reform the financial and administrative frameworks of ULBs.
• Empowering these crucial local governments is essential for achieving sustainable urban governance and fulfilling the objectives of the 74th Constitutional Amendment.
• States must implement laws and policies that bolster ULBs, ensuring their active participation in planning and governance.