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

GS1/Indian Society

The Digital Frontier of Inequality

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

India's digital revolution, characterized by 1.18 billion mobile connections and 700 million Internet users, is facing significant challenges, particularly concerning tech-facilitated gender-based violence. In response, the Ministry of Women and Child Development has launched the ‘Ab Koi Bahana Nahi’ campaign, aimed at combating gender-based violence in India. This campaign, initiated on November 25, 2024, promotes public accountability and action, coinciding with the global 16 Days of Activism.

• The digital divide exacerbates socioeconomic inequalities in India.
• Urban areas have better digital access compared to rural areas.
• Women face significant barriers in accessing digital technologies, impacting their opportunities.
• Government initiatives aim to bridge the digital divide and enhance digital literacy.

Additional Details

• Urban-Rural Disparities: There is a significant contrast in digital access between urban and rural regions. Urban areas benefit from better connectivity and higher internet speeds, while rural areas struggle, limiting their participation in the digital economy and access to essential services.
• Gender Inequality: The digital gender divide is evident, with fewer women than men having access to digital technologies, which restricts their economic and educational opportunities, thereby reinforcing existing societal inequalities.
• Economic Inequality: Limited access to technology disproportionately affects lower-income groups, hindering their ability to improve their quality of life and compete in an increasingly online job market.

The implications of digital inequality are profound, particularly in education and employment opportunities. Students in areas with limited digital infrastructure struggle to access educational resources, a challenge that became evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the lack of digital skills among job seekers limits their employability in a technology-driven job market.

Why Women's Safety Online is Crucial

• Protection of Rights and Dignity: Ensuring women's safety online supports their fundamental rights, allowing them to engage fully in society without fear of harassment.
• Economic Growth: Improving online safety for women can potentially boost global GDP by $18 billion by encouraging their participation in the digital economy.
• Addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV): The rise in cyber-crimes against women necessitates stronger legal protections to combat online gender-based violence.
• Social Stability and Cohesion: A culture of safety promotes social stability by breaking cycles of violence, with men and boys playing a critical role as allies.

Government Initiatives to Bridge the Digital Divide

• BharatNet Project: Launched in 2011 to connect 250,000 panchayats through high-speed optical fiber networks to enhance rural internet access.
• National Digital Literacy Mission: Established in 2014, aiming for at least one digitally literate person in every household.
• PM Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan: Launched in 2017 to promote digital literacy among approximately 60 million rural households.
• Digital India Programme: Initiated in 2015, this program seeks to transform India into a digitally empowered society, focusing on universal digital literacy.
• Internet Saathi Program: A collaboration launched in 2015 to empower rural women with digital skills.
• DIKSHA Platform: Launched in 2017, it provides digital resources for school education, promoting equitable access to educational content.

Strategies to Bridge the Digital Divide

• Infrastructure Investment: Expanding broadband infrastructure in rural areas is essential for equitable internet access.
• Digital Literacy Programs: Widespread initiatives are needed to empower individuals, especially women and marginalized groups, with the skills to navigate online spaces safely.
• Integrating Technology into Education: Schools should include technology training in their curriculums, and community workshops can educate adults.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborations with tech companies can enhance resource allocation to bridge the digital divide.
• Nationwide Awareness Campaigns: Campaigns should aim to change societal attitudes about technology use, particularly for women and marginalized communities.

In conclusion, addressing digital inequality is critical for fostering inclusive growth and ensuring that all members of society can participate in the digital economy effectively.

GS3/Science and Technology

Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT)

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), part of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), has launched an upgraded version of its Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT), enhancing its capabilities for locating individuals and vessels in distress at sea.

Key Takeaways

• SARAT was initially launched in 2016 to aid search and rescue operations.
• The tool uses advanced model ensembling techniques to improve accuracy in locating missing objects.
• Version 2 includes improved visualizations and corrected search area calculations.

Additional Details

• Model Ensembling: This approach considers uncertainties in the initial location and the last known time of the object, increasing the probability of accurate location.
• Environmental Factors: The movements of missing objects are primarily influenced by currents and winds, which are modeled using high-resolution data from the Regional Ocean Modelling System.
• User Interaction: Users can specify the last seen point of the object on an interactive map or select a coastal location to help estimate the last known position.
• Communication: Results are provided in the local languages of coastal states, making it accessible for local fishermen.
• The upgraded version corrects the search area expansion to be centered on the last known position, enhancing the tool's effectiveness.
• New visual features include color coding for search regions and markers to identify the last known position clearly.

The enhancements in SARAT aim to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of search and rescue operations, ensuring that individuals in distress can be located as quickly as possible.

GS2/Polity

Uniform Civil Code: Perspectives from Ambedkar and KM Munshi

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

Recently, the Prime Minister renewed the call for a nationwide Uniform Civil Code (UCC), referencing the views of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and KM Munshi from the Constituent Assembly discussions.

Key Takeaways

• The UCC aims to provide a common set of laws governing personal matters for all citizens, irrespective of their religion.
• Article 44 of the Indian Constitution mandates the establishment of a UCC.
• Various personal laws exist in India, including those for Hindus and Muslims, which currently do not align under a single legal framework.

Additional Details

• Uniform Civil Code (UCC): Envisioned under Article 44 of the Constitution, the UCC seeks to apply the same set of secular civil laws to all citizens of India, covering areas such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance.
• Hindu Personal Laws: Codified in 1956 and applicable to Hindus, including Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, these laws include the Hindu Marriage Act, Hindu Succession Act, and others.
• Muslim Personal Laws: Governed by the Shariat law of 1937, these laws are interpreted by religious authorities without state interference.
• Significant Judicial Interventions: The Special Marriage Act (1954) allows civil marriages across religions. Landmark cases like Shah Bano (1985) and Sarla Mudgal (1995) have reinforced the need for a UCC.

What KM Munshi Said on UCC

• Support for UCC: During the Constituent Assembly debate on November 23, 1948, Munshi advocated for the UCC, dismissing fears of it being oppressive to minorities.
• Equality for Women: Munshi highlighted that a lack of UCC perpetuates unequal rights for women in personal matters, particularly in Hindu law.
• National Unity: He argued that uniform regulations in social and civil matters would promote national unity, suggesting that religion should only influence spiritual life.

What Ambedkar Said on UCC

• Support for Article 44: Ambedkar emphasized the importance of Article 44 during debates, advocating for a UCC without delving deeply into its specifics.
• Challenging Religious Personal Laws: He argued against the view that Muslim personal law was immutable and noted historical flexibility in personal laws across different regions.
• State Power and Personal Law: Ambedkar contended that personal laws should be subject to state reform to mitigate discrimination and inequities.

What Happened at the End of the Debate?

• Passage of Article 44: Following extensive discussions, Article 44 was passed, establishing the directive for a UCC in India.
• Renumbering: Initially Article 35, it was later renumbered to Article 44, which remains a Directive Principle of State Policy guiding laws on personal matters.

GS3/Environment

Key Facts about Kerch Strait

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

A recent incident involving a Russian oil tanker that split apart during a severe storm resulted in a significant oil spill into the Kerch Strait. This event highlights the ongoing environmental risks associated with maritime activities in the region.

Key Takeaways

• The Kerch Strait connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Azov.
• It has historical significance, previously known as the Strait of Cimmerian Bosphorus.
• Kerch Strait is a vital shipping route, essential for global trade.
• The region has been a focal point of conflict between Russia and Ukraine since 2014.
• The Kerch Strait Bridge, completed in 2018, symbolizes Russia's annexation of Crimea.

Additional Details

• Geographical Features: The Kerch Strait is approximately 3 km long, 15 km wide, and 18 meters deep. Its narrowest point, located at the Chushka Land spit, measures only three to five kilometers across.
• Major Cities: The city of Kerch is situated near the center of the strait on the Crimean side, serving as a key location for shipping and trade.
• Environmental Impact: The recent oil spill raises concerns about the ecological health of the Kerch Strait, affecting marine life and local economies.

This incident underscores the strategic importance of the Kerch Strait, both as a shipping route and a contentious geopolitical area. Ongoing monitoring and response to environmental incidents remain crucial for safeguarding the region's ecological integrity.

GS3/Science and Technology

Firefly Sparkle Galaxy

Source: Money Control

Why in News?

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has recently identified a rare galaxy named Firefly Sparkle, providing valuable insights into early galaxy formation. This discovery is significant from an astronomical perspective, as it sheds light on the conditions of the universe shortly after the Big Bang.

Key Takeaways

• Discovered by JWST, this galaxy dates back to approximately 600 million years after the Big Bang.
• It is recognized as one of the earliest low-mass galaxies, offering unique insights into the formation of galaxies.
• The galaxy's star clusters emit a bright light, resembling fireflies, which is how it got its name.

Additional Details

• Mass: The Firefly Sparkle galaxy has a mass equivalent to 10 million suns, categorizing it as a low-mass galaxy.
• Size: Its visible portion spans only 1,000 light-years, significantly smaller than the Milky Way's 100,000 light-years.
• Star Clusters: It contains 10 distinct star clusters, each representing different stages of star formation.
• Accompanied by two smaller galaxies named Firefly-Best Friend and Firefly-New Best Friend, it has an elongated raindrop shape, indicating ongoing formation processes.

Observational Studies by JWST

• JWST utilized gravitational lensing to magnify the galaxy's light by a factor of 16-26 times, allowing for detailed observations.
• The telescope observed various stages of star formation, with younger stars appearing blue and older stars red.
• Each star cluster in the galaxy represents a different phase of formation, contributing to our understanding of galaxy development.
• These findings help refine existing theories regarding galaxy formation and the dynamics of star clusters in the early universe.

This discovery underscores the capabilities of the JWST in exploring the universe's infancy and enhances our understanding of how galaxies, including our own Milky Way, may have formed.

GS2/Polity

Implementation of POSH Act to Political Parties

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The Supreme Court recently considered a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that advocates for the application of The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, commonly known as the POSH Act, to political parties. The petitioner pointed out discrepancies in the presence of Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) within political parties for addressing sexual harassment complaints. Subsequently, the court directed the petitioner to approach the Election Commission of India (ECI), which it deemed the appropriate authority to encourage political parties to establish mechanisms compliant with the POSH Act. This case has sparked a debate regarding the applicability of the POSH Act to political parties, which often do not align with conventional workplace structures.

Key Takeaways

• The Supreme Court is examining the applicability of the POSH Act to political parties.
• There are inconsistencies regarding Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) within political organizations.
• The ECI is seen as a key authority in enforcing compliance with the POSH Act among political parties.

Additional Details

• POSH Act 2013: The law aims to protect women's rights at work and create a safer workplace environment. It was inspired by the Vishaka Guidelines established in the 1997 Supreme Court case, Vishakha v. The State of Rajasthan.
• Section 3(1) of the POSH Act: This section provides protection against sexual harassment for women at workplaces, broadly defining "workplace" to include various settings such as public and private organizations, hospitals, and homes, but its application to political parties remains ambiguous.
• Legal Challenges: The Kerala High Court ruled that political parties do not fit the definition of a "workplace" as they lack a traditional employer-employee relationship, thus not necessitating ICCs.
• Challenges in Applicability: The non-traditional structure of political parties complicates the identification of an "employer" for establishing ICCs, and party workers often lack a defined workplace.
• Current Internal Mechanisms: Political parties have internal disciplinary committees but do not specifically address sexual harassment, as required by the POSH Act.

In conclusion, while the POSH Act aims to protect women from sexual harassment in various workplaces, its applicability to political parties presents significant legal and structural challenges. This highlights the need for a reevaluation of existing laws to ensure accountability in political organizations.

GS3/Environment

Understanding Carbon Markets

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

The recent COP29 conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, has revitalized discussions about utilizing carbon markets as a mechanism to mitigate carbon emissions. The conference has approved standards aimed at establishing an international carbon market potentially within the next year.

Key Takeaways

• Carbon markets facilitate the buying and selling of carbon emission rights.
• Carbon credits are defined as permits allowing the emission of 1,000 kilograms of carbon dioxide.
• These markets aim to control environmental pollution through economic incentives.

Additional Details

• Carbon Market: A system that allows entities to trade carbon credits, where governments issue certificates that permit a specified amount of carbon emissions. This system helps regulate total carbon output by limiting the number of available credits.
• Carbon Offsets: These are purchased by companies to compensate for their emissions, often through funding projects like tree planting that absorb carbon dioxide.
• Advantages of Carbon Markets:
  • Addresses externalities by incorporating the cost of pollution into market prices.
  • Provides financial incentives for companies to reduce emissions.
  • Enhances carbon accounting through improved technology and frameworks.
  • Offers flexibility for businesses to manage their emissions through trading.
• Challenges of Carbon Markets:
  • Government manipulation can undermine market effectiveness.
  • Non-compliance and cheating can occur, requiring strict enforcement.
  • Some firms may engage in superficial investments in carbon offsets.
  • Small businesses may struggle with monitoring emissions accurately.
  • Diverse production processes complicate the establishment of uniform carbon budgets.

In summary, while carbon markets hold promise in addressing climate change by providing economic incentives for emission reductions, they also face significant challenges that must be managed to ensure their effectiveness.

GS3/Environment

National Energy Conservation Award

Source: Times of India 

Why in News?

Recently, the Vice President of India honored the winners of the National Energy Conservation Award, an important initiative that recognizes outstanding efforts in energy conservation.

Key Takeaways

• The National Energy Conservation Award is organized by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under the Ministry of Power.
• Established in 1991, the awards coincide with National Energy Conservation Day, celebrated on December 14.
• The awards aim to acknowledge organizations that have successfully reduced energy consumption while improving operational efficiency.

Additional Details

• Selection Procedure:

  The Award Committee, led by the Secretary (Power), assesses eligible sectors for the awards. Applications are reviewed by a Technical Committee, which includes representatives from various organizations such as the Ministry of Railways and the Central Electricity Authority. After evaluation, recommendations are made to the Award Committee for final approval.

• Bureau of Energy Efficiency:

  Founded on March 1, 2002, under the Energy Conservation Act of 2001, the BEE's mission is to develop policies emphasizing self-regulation and market principles. A primary goal is to reduce the energy intensity of the Indian economy. The BEE collaborates with designated consumers and organizations to optimize resources effectively.

The National Energy Conservation Award stands as a testament to the commitment of various sectors towards energy sustainability and conservation, contributing significantly to national energy efficiency efforts.

GS2/Polity

Sanganer Open Air Jail

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

A Supreme Court-appointed commissioner is set to visit the Sanganer open prison, one of India's largest, following a dispute regarding the Rajasthan government's plan to construct a hospital on land currently occupied by the jail. During a hearing on November 25, the Supreme Court directed the commissioner to inspect the site and submit a report within four weeks.

Key Takeaways

• The Sanganer open jail is at the center of a controversy over land use.
• The Supreme Court is involved in ensuring the preservation of the jail's area amid proposed developments.
• Open prisons are designed to facilitate the rehabilitation of inmates through reduced security and increased freedom.

Additional Details

• Open Prison: Open correctional institutions provide eligible prisoners with more freedom compared to traditional prisons, aiding in their rehabilitation. State governments determine the rules for these facilities based on factors like inmate behavior and the nature of the crime.
• History of Open Jails in India: The first open jail in independent India was established in 1949 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The concept gained traction with recommendations from the Justice Mulla Committee, which reported that only a few states had a legal framework for open jails.
• Current Status: As of 2022, there are 91 open jails across 17 states in India, with Rajasthan having the highest number (41).
• Unique Features of Sanganer Open Jail: This facility, established in 1963, allows inmates to live with their families and be self-sufficient, managing their own homes and finances through community jobs.
• Supreme Court's Previous Directive: In May 2024, the Supreme Court ruled that areas designated for open jails should not be reduced, emphasizing their importance in the correctional system.

The ongoing developments at Sanganer open jail highlight the balance needed between community health initiatives and the rehabilitation needs of inmates. The outcome of the Supreme Court's involvement will be crucial in determining the future of this unique correctional facility.

GS3/Environment

Olive Ridley Turtles

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

Carcasses of Olive Ridley turtles have been found along the Visakhapatnam coast during their breeding season. Environmental experts attribute the majority of these deaths to marine pollution and trawling activities aimed at catching fish.

Key Takeaways

• The Olive Ridley Turtle (scientific name: Lepidochelys olivacea) is the smallest and most populous sea turtle species globally.
• Size: Olive Ridley turtles typically grow to about 2 feet in length and can weigh around 50 kg.
• Habitat: They are found in the warm and tropical waters of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans.
• Appearance: Their name comes from their olive-colored carapace, which is heart-shaped and rounded.
• Carnivorous Diet: Their diet primarily consists of jellyfish, shrimp, snails, crabs, mollusks, various fish, and their eggs.

Unique Behavior

• Arribada: This term describes the remarkable mass nesting behavior of Olive Ridley turtles, where thousands of females gather on the same beach to lay their eggs.
• Nesting Sites: The coast of Orissa in India is the largest mass nesting site, with other significant sites located in Mexico and Costa Rica.
• Major nesting locations in India include:
  • Odisha: Gahirmatha Beach, Rushikulya River mouth, and Devi River mouth.
  • Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Life Cycle

• Egg Laying: Female Olive Ridley turtles lay their eggs in conical nests that are approximately 1.5 feet deep, which they excavate using their hind flippers.
• Hatching: The incubation period lasts about 45-65 days, after which the hatchlings emerge and make their way to the ocean.
• Survival Rate: Only about 1 in 1,000 hatchlings survives to reach adulthood.

Conservation Status

• The Olive Ridley turtle is currently classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to various threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and poaching.

In summary, the Olive Ridley turtle plays a crucial role in marine ecosystems but faces significant threats that jeopardize its survival. Conservation efforts are essential to protect this species and its habitats.