UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 26th November 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Environment

REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE

Source:The Hindu Business Line

Why in News?

The Government of Odisha, in collaboration with ICRISAT, has introduced a 'Compendium of Regenerative Agriculture' aimed at fostering regenerative agricultural practices.

This compendium presents five fundamental principles designed to ensure sustainable farming:

• Minimizing soil disturbance
• Maximizing crop diversity
• Maintaining year-round soil cover
• Keeping living roots in the soil throughout the year
• Integrating livestock into farming systems

Regenerative agriculture represents a comprehensive approach to farming that emphasizes the restoration and enhancement of ecosystem health.

Core Principles:

• Soil Health: The focus is primarily on enhancing soil health through methods such as no-till farming, cover cropping, and crop rotation, which help in preserving soil structure and fertility.
• Biodiversity: Encouraging biodiversity by incorporating a variety of crops and livestock. This diversity aids in natural pest control and effective nutrient cycling.
• Water Management: Implementing strategies to improve water retention and minimize runoff, such as mulching and agroforestry techniques.
• Carbon Sequestration: Enhancing the soil's ability to sequester carbon, which plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change by capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Practices:

• Cover Cropping: The practice of planting cover crops during off-seasons to protect and enrich the soil, thus improving its quality when main crops are not cultivated.
• Composting: The addition of organic matter to the soil through composting, which enhances soil structure and fertility, promoting healthier plant growth.
• Agroforestry: The integration of trees and shrubs within agricultural systems to boost biodiversity and provide alternative income sources while enhancing ecosystem services.
• Holistic Management: Managing farms as interconnected ecosystems, taking into account the relationships between soil, plants, animals, and humans for sustainable outcomes.

Benefits:

• Improved Soil Health: Healthy soil leads to better crop yields, a reduction in the need for chemical inputs, and increased resilience against extreme weather conditions.
• Enhanced Biodiversity: Diverse ecosystems contribute to greater resilience and productivity, creating habitats for beneficial insects and wildlife.
• Climate Mitigation: By sequestering carbon, regenerative agriculture plays a significant role in lowering greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.
• Economic Viability: Farmers can cut down on input costs and boost profitability through the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices.

GS3/Science and Technology

Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Telescope

Source:Hindustan Times

Why in News?

The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) telescope was inaugurated on October 4th in Hanle, Ladakh.

About MACE Telescope:

• It is the world's highest imaging Cherenkov telescope, situated at an altitude of 4.3 kilometers above sea level in Hanle, Ladakh.
• The telescope features a 21-meter-wide mirror-dish, making it the largest of its kind in Asia.
• MACE was developed by a consortium of institutions including the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Electronics Corporation of India Ltd. (ECIL), and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
• The telescope operates by capturing Cherenkov radiation, which is the blue light emitted when charged particles exceed the speed of light in a medium. This radiation is collected using mirrors and analyzed with photomultiplier tubes (PMTs).
• MACE is equipped with a high-resolution camera and a movable base to enhance its observational capabilities.

Aims and Objectives of MACE:

• MACE is designed to detect high-energy gamma rays, specifically those exceeding 20 giga-electron volts, which are produced by various cosmic phenomena.
• It aims to identify Weakly Interacting Massive Particles (WIMPs) to aid in dark matter research.
• The telescope will contribute to multi-messenger astronomy, providing complementary data alongside other astronomical observations.

How Do Gamma Rays Work in DNA Mutation?

• Gamma rays cause ionization, which can break chemical bonds in DNA, leading to genetic mutations.
• If not repaired, these mutations may result in cancers or genetic disorders.
• The damage inflicted by gamma rays can lead to chromosomal abnormalities and may contribute to the development of cancer.

GS2/Polity

The Consensus Republic: A Lesson for Today’s Parliamentarians from the Constituent Assembly

Source:Indian Express

Why in news?

On November 26, 2024, India will observe the 75th anniversary of the adoption of its Constitution, an essential milestone that laid down the framework for the nation's democratic governance. The efforts of the Constituent Assembly, which crafted this pivotal document, continue to inspire and guide current political practices. As this significant date approaches, it is crucial to reflect on the foundational ideals established during that time and derive lessons for the current and future workings of Parliament.

The Spirit of the Constituent Assembly

A Commitment to Dialogue and Consensus Building

• The Constituent Assembly was defined by its dedication to dialogue and fostering consensus.
• Members hailed from varied ideological, cultural, and regional backgrounds, which contributed to a pluralistic and inclusive environment.
• This diversity enhanced the Constitution's drafting process instead of causing disorder.
• B.R. Ambedkar, in his closing speech on November 25, 1949, acknowledged the Assembly's ability to avoid rigid party lines.
• He emphasized the importance of dissenting opinions, recognizing that they enriched debates and clarified constitutional principles.

A Stark Contrast to Present Day Parliamentary Culture

• This respectful engagement starkly contrasts with today's parliamentary atmosphere, which is often plagued by polarization and disruptions.
• Ambedkar's view of dissent as a valuable tool for refinement highlights the necessity for modern legislators to see ideological differences as opportunities for growth rather than hindrances to governance.

Evolution of Indian Parliamentary Democracy Over Past Few Decades

Parliamentary Democracy: A Diminished Legacy

• India's parliamentary democracy, once regarded as a fundamental aspect of governance, has noticeably declined in functionality and relevance over recent decades.
• Core ideals from the Constituent Assembly, like robust debate and prioritizing the collective welfare, have been overshadowed by partisanship and procedural inefficiencies.
• This decline is evident in various aspects, including the frequency of sittings, the quality of debates, and the transparency of decision-making.

Declining Parliamentary Sittings

• In the early years of independent India, parliamentary sessions were more frequent and debates were more comprehensive.
• The first Lok Sabha (1952–57) met for 677 days, spending considerable time on legislative discussions.
• In contrast, recent decades have seen a significant drop in the number of parliamentary sittings.
• Since the 1990s, Lok Sabha sessions have averaged only 345 days over a five-year term, with the 17th Lok Sabha sitting for just 274 days during its entire term.

Erosion of Legislative Scrutiny

• A crucial role of Parliament is to scrutinize and refine legislation.
• This was traditionally done by referring bills to Parliamentary Committees, allowing for in-depth analysis and stakeholder engagement.

Waning Debate on the Union Budget

• The Union Budget, vital for economic planning, previously received extensive attention in Parliament.
• Before 1990, budget discussions averaged 120 hours, allowing for thorough debates on fiscal policies.
• Recently, this time has decreased to just 35 hours, with some budgets passed without any discussion at all, undermining Parliament's fiscal oversight role.

Disruptions and Polarisation

• Parliamentary proceedings have become increasingly disrupted by partisan conflicts, leading to wasted time and resources.
• For instance, the 15th Lok Sabha lost 37% of scheduled time to disruptions, while the 16th Lok Sabha lost 16%.
• These disruptions stem from ideological polarization and a lack of willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.

Lessons for Today’s Parliamentarians from the Constituent Assembly

Commitment to Consensus and Nation-Building

• Members of the Constituent Assembly recognized the significance of their responsibilities and, despite their diverse beliefs, shared a commitment to national cohesion.
• Their discussions were centered on the common good, rising above personal or party interests.
• In contrast, current parliamentary sessions are often bogged down by polarization and adversarial politics.

Embracing Constructive Dialogue and Respectful Disagreement

• Members of the Constituent Assembly often had strong disagreements, yet their debates remained respectful and focused on ideas rather than personal attacks.
• Acknowledgment of dissenting contributors, even when differing from the majority, enriched discussions and improved the Constitution's provisions.
• Today's parliamentarians should recognize that respectful dissent can drive progress, as current trends of disruptions and hostile rhetoric diminish the quality of debates.

Bridging Ideological Divides

• The Constituent Assembly represented India's diversity and managed to create a unified vision for the country.
• This success was due to members prioritizing nation-building over ideological differences.
• In today's complex political environment, bridging these divides is more crucial than ever.

Conclusion

• The 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution serves not only as a celebration of a historic achievement but also as a call to action.
• By learning from the ethos of the Constituent Assembly, current parliamentarians can tackle the democratic deficiencies that have emerged in India's parliamentary culture.
• The legacy of respectful disagreement, a collective vision, and nation-building provides a roadmap for reimagining the future of India's democracy.

GS3/Economy

Why India’s trade deficit is not necessarily a weakness

Source:Indian Express

Why in News?

India's ongoing trade deficit, where the value of imports surpasses that of exports, should not be viewed as a sign of weak manufacturing. Instead, it underscores India's strengths in the services sector and its attractiveness as a destination for foreign investment. Given these strengths, it is expected that the goods trade deficit will continue. To bolster the growth of Indian manufacturing, the emphasis should shift towards enhancing domestic demand rather than relying solely on exports.

Context

• India's persistent trade deficit is characterized by a situation where imports consistently exceed exports.
• This scenario does not indicate a deficiency in manufacturing capabilities but rather highlights India's strong service sector and its position as a favorable investment location.

Link Between Capital Inflows and Current Account Deficit

• A current account deficit (CAD) occurs when a country's imports of goods and services outweigh its exports, leading to a net import status.
• India's CAD slightly increased to $9.7 billion (1.1% of GDP) in Q1:2024-25, up from $8.9 billion (1.0% of GDP) in the same quarter of the previous year.

Foreign Investment and Current Account Deficit

• Foreign investment and the current account deficit are intrinsically linked; countries attracting investment must either incur a current account deficit or build foreign exchange reserves.
• This balance ensures that the total flow of money into and out of the country remains equal.
• When foreign investments flow in, an equivalent outflow is necessary, which often manifests as imports of goods and services.
• Mathematically, this relationship can be expressed as: Capital Inflows = Current Account Deficit + Increase in Reserves.

India’s Approach to Capital Inflows

• India aims to attract foreign investment to enhance domestic savings, which in turn supports higher investments and promotes accelerated economic growth.
• This strategy aligns with India's broader developmental objectives.

Role and Cost of Foreign Exchange Reserves

• Foreign exchange reserves serve as a protective buffer against economic fluctuations, such as spikes in oil prices, providing flexibility in managing current account deficits.
• However, maintaining these reserves comes at a cost, as India pays higher returns to foreign investors compared to the earnings generated from its reserves.

Capital Inflows and Current Account Deficits

• The inflow of capital must correspond to the sum of the current account deficit and the accumulation of reserves.
• Since India does not require extensive reserve accumulation, these inflows are directly linked to the current account deficit.
• This implies that attracting foreign investment inherently means accepting a net import of goods and services.

India’s Balanced Policy

• India adopts a cautious policy of maintaining a current account deficit of approximately 2% of GDP, balanced by equivalent capital inflows, which highlights its appeal as an investment hub.

Composition of India’s Current Account Deficit: Goods and Services

• The current account deficit in India is primarily due to higher imports compared to exports.
• This deficit is moderated by India's comparative advantage in various sectors, particularly in services.
• India is a net exporter of services, excelling in fields like IT, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles, which helps to offset its import expenditures.
• Consequently, while India imports more goods, its strong service exports keep the overall current account deficit manageable.

Manufacturing and Comparative Advantage

• India's manufacturing exports, notably in pharmaceuticals and auto components, are adequate to sustain the current account deficit.
• This success is linked to India's comparative advantage in these sectors rather than a deficiency in manufacturing productivity compared to nations like Vietnam or Bangladesh.
• India's edge in services overshadows its manufacturing advantages, influencing the trade balance.

Scope for Faster Manufacturing Growth

• Although India's manufacturing sector is performing well, there remains potential for accelerated growth.
• To achieve this, an increase in domestic demand is essential.
• If domestic consumption rises while the current account deficit remains stable, this uptick in demand will stimulate greater domestic production, fostering faster manufacturing growth.
• This underscores that the expansion of India's manufacturing sector is closely linked to internal market dynamics, rather than being solely reliant on export opportunities.

GS2/Governance

PAN 2.0 Project

Source:Times of India

Why in news?

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), led by the Prime Minister, has approved the PAN 2.0 Project.

About PAN 2.0 Project:

• The PAN 2.0 Project is an e-Governance initiative aimed at re-engineering taxpayer registration services through a technology-driven overhaul of the PAN/TAN services, enhancing the digital experience for taxpayers.
• This project represents an upgrade from the existing PAN/TAN 1.0 ecosystem, consolidating both core and non-core activities related to PAN/TAN, along with improving PAN validation services.
• It is spearheaded by the Income Tax Department.

Benefits of the PAN 2.0 Project:

• Improved accessibility and faster delivery of services, enhancing overall quality.
• Establishment of a Single Source of Truth, ensuring consistency of data across the board.
• Adoption of eco-friendly procedures alongside cost optimization efforts.
• Enhanced security measures and infrastructure optimization for increased operational agility.

This initiative aligns with the government's vision encapsulated in the Digital India program, facilitating the use of PAN as a Common Identifier across various digital systems employed by designated government agencies.

What is a Permanent Account Number (PAN)?

• A PAN is a ten-character alphanumeric identifier issued by the Income Tax Department.
• This identifier is assigned to any "person" upon application or can be allocated directly by the department without a formal request.
• The Income Tax Department uses the PAN to track and link all transactions related to an individual, which includes activities like tax payments, TDS/TCS credits, income tax returns, specific transactions, and official communications.

GS3/Economy

National Gopal Ratna Award

Source:ETV Bharat

Why in News?

Recently, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) announced the winners of the National Gopal Ratna Awards (NGRA) for the year 2024.

About National Gopal Ratna Award:

• The National Gopal Ratna Award is one of the most prestigious recognitions in the livestock and dairy sector.
• These awards are presented during the National Milk Day celebrations.
• The awards aim to acknowledge and promote the efforts of various stakeholders in the animal husbandry and dairy industries, including:
  • Farmers raising indigenous animal breeds.
  • Artificial Insemination (AI) Technicians.
  • Dairy cooperatives, Milk Producer Companies, and Dairy Farmer Producer Organizations.
• The awards are categorized into three main areas:
  • Best Dairy Farmer Rearing Indigenous Cattle/Buffalo Breeds.
  • Best Artificial Insemination Technician (AIT).
  • Best Dairy Cooperative/Milk Producer Company/Dairy Farmer Producer Organization.
• This year, a special award category has been introduced for the North Eastern Region (NER) States in all three award categories to encourage and enhance dairy development activities in that region.

GS1/History & Culture

On this day over 500 years ago, the Portuguese conquered Goa

Source:Indian Express

Why in the News?

On November 25, over 500 years ago, the Portuguese established their first territorial possession in India, marking the beginning of their 400-year colonial rule in the region, which ended in 1961. This event signifies the last colonial power to exit India.

Why did the Portuguese come to Goa?

• Vasco da Gama's voyage in 1498 uncovered the vibrant trade networks within the Indian Ocean.
• The Portuguese aimed to harness wealth from these trade routes.
• Competition with Muslim-controlled trade routes prompted the Portuguese to establish military dominance in the area.
• The formal establishment of the Portuguese State of India occurred in 1505, six years post-Vasco da Gama's arrival.
• Francisco de Almeida became the first Viceroy and set up the initial base in Fort Manuel, now Kochi.
• The Portuguese maintained control over Bom Bahia (later Bombay) until it was ceded to England in 1661.

How did Alfonso de Albuquerque conquer Goa?

• Albuquerque, who served as Viceroy from 1509 to 1515, recognized Goa's strategic importance for controlling maritime trade routes.
• His decision to attack Goa was influenced by Timmayya, who is characterized variably as either a Malabari pirate or an aristocrat linked to the Vijayanagara Empire.
• During his first attack on Goa in February-March 1510, Albuquerque found success due to the unpopularity of Sultan Yusuf Adil Shah among the Hindu population, many of whom supported the Portuguese.
• After facing challenges during the monsoon, Albuquerque received reinforcements from Portugal.
• In November 1510, with additional forces, he successfully captured Goa.

Who Was Timmayya?

• Timmayya is a pivotal figure in the conquest of Goa, described in various historical accounts.
• Some historians suggest he was of noble descent, holding a significant position in the Vijayanagara navy.
• Although the Portuguese viewed him as a corsair, he was actually executing orders on behalf of the Vijayanagara Empire, targeting rival merchant ships.
• Historians debate the extent of Timmayya's influence on the timing of Albuquerque's attack; some believe he solidified an already existing plan.

Why did Timmayya want Goa conquered?

• The Vijayanagara rulers had long coveted Goa, especially after it fell to the Sultan of Bijapur.
• Timmayya's motivations were likely driven by the strategic interests of the Vijayanagara Empire to regain control of the economically valuable territory.

GS1/History & Culture

Raja Raja Chola I

Source:The Hindu

Why in News?

The birth anniversary of the legendary Chola emperor Raja Raja Chola I is celebrated every year during the Sadhaya Vizha in Thanjavur of Tamil Nadu.

About Raja Raja Chola I:

• Born as Arulmozhi Varman in 947 CE, he would rise to become one of history's most revered and visionary rulers.
• Known as Raja Raja the Great, he inherited a rich legacy from his ancestors and shaped an empire that thrived both militarily and culturally.

Reign:

• His reign lasted from 985 to 1014 CE, characterized by remarkable military achievements and innovative administrative strategies.

Military Conquest:

• Under his rule, the Chola dynasty expanded significantly beyond South India, with territories stretching from Sri Lanka in the south to Kalinga in the north.
• He initiated multiple naval campaigns, successfully capturing the Malabar Coast, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka.

Titles:

• After defeating the Pandyas, he adopted the title "Pandya Kulashani," which signifies a thunderbolt to the Pandya lineage.
• He also took on the title "Mummudi," meaning "the Chola who wears the three crowns."

Architectural Achievements:

• In 1010, Raja Raja commissioned the construction of the Brihadisvara Temple in Thanjavur, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• This temple and the capital city became vital centers for both religious devotion and economic activities.

Cultural Contributions:

• During his reign, significant literary works were compiled, including the texts of Tamil poets Appar, Sambandar, and Sundarar, which were edited into a single collection called Thirumurai.

GS1/Indian Society

#AbKoiBahanaNahi Campaign

Source: Deccan Herald

Why in news?

The national campaign was launched in New Delhi with the aim of empowering women and putting an end to gender-based violence.

Launched By:

• Ministries of Women and Child Development
• Ministries of Rural Development
• Support from UN Women

Aims and Objectives

• End Gender-Based Violence: Raise awareness and urgency to combat violence against women and girls throughout India.
• Dignity and Equality: Empower women to report violence and advocate for their rights, promoting their dignity.
• Gender Equality in Economy: Ensure equal participation of women in all sectors to contribute to a developed India (Viksit Bharat).

Implementation and Structural Mandate

• National Call to Action: A collective appeal to all stakeholders—including citizens, NGOs, and government agencies—to actively engage in efforts to end gender-based violence.
• Alignment with Global Campaigns: The initiative corresponds with the UN's #NoExcuse global initiative, which demands accountability and action against increasing violence.
• Supportive Interventions: Government initiatives aimed at reducing women's drudgery, ensuring financial inclusion, bridging the gender digital divide, and creating safe spaces for women.
• Significance
  • Empowerment for Dignity: The campaign empowers women to assert their dignity, free from societal constraints.
  • Women’s Role in National Development: Emphasizes that achieving gender equality is vital for India's progress by 2047.
  • Support to Women’s Rights: Advocates for a comprehensive approach to women's rights, including gender-sensitive laws, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities.

GS3/Environment

GLOBAL MATCHMAKING PLATFORM (GMP)

Source: DTE

Why in news?

The Global Matchmaking Platform (GMP) has been launched by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in collaboration with the Climate Club. This initiative aims to expedite the process of decarbonizing heavy-emitting industries, particularly in emerging and developing economies, and was introduced at an event attended by partner countries and significant donor organizations.

Key Takeaways

• The GMP is tailored to promote decarbonization efforts in industries that significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
• Purpose and Objectives
  • Decarbonization: The main objective of the GMP is to fast-track the reduction of carbon emissions from industries that are major greenhouse gas emitters.
  • Technical and Financial Solutions: The platform connects nations with technical and financial resources aimed at minimizing emissions in energy-intensive sectors.

How It Works

• Single-Point Gateway: The GMP serves as a centralized platform allowing governments in developing nations to submit tailored requests and discover leading technical and financial solutions globally.
• Matchmaking Process: It facilitates a process where the specific needs of countries are aligned with suitable technical and financial assistance from partnering organizations.
• Pilot Projects: Initial discussions for pilot projects are already in progress in several countries, including Argentina, Colombia, Chile, Egypt, Indonesia, Kenya, Morocco, and Cambodia.

Support and Partnerships

• Climate Club: The GMP operates as a supporting mechanism for the Climate Club, with its secretariat based at UNIDO.
• Delivery Partners: Important partners involved in delivering this initiative include Climate Investment Funds, German Development Cooperation (GIZ), UNIDO, and the World Bank.
• Initial Funding: The platform has received initial financial backing from the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Climate Action (BMWK).

GS3/Economy

MICRO, SMALL, AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (MSMES)

Source:Business Standard

Why in news?

According to recent official data from the Udyam portal, India's micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) have created approximately 10 crore new jobs over the last 15 months. This reflects a significant increase in the number of registered MSMEs, which has surged from 2.33 crore to 5.49 crore since August of the previous year. The job count reported by these enterprises has also risen dramatically from 13.15 crore to 23.14 crore during the same timeframe.

Definition and Classification

• Micro Enterprises: These are defined as enterprises with an investment in plant and machinery or equipment not exceeding ₹1 crore and an annual turnover that does not exceed ₹5 crore.
• Small Enterprises: Small enterprises are those with investments in plant and machinery or equipment up to ₹10 crore and an annual turnover not exceeding ₹50 crore.
• Medium Enterprises: Medium enterprises are classified as having investments in plant and machinery or equipment not exceeding ₹50 crore and an annual turnover that does not exceed ₹250 crore.

Significance

• Economic Contribution: MSMEs play a vital role in the economy of India, contributing nearly 30% to the GDP. They are crucial for sustaining economic growth and stability.
• Employment Generation: These enterprises are significant job creators, providing livelihoods for millions of individuals across the country.
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship: MSMEs encourage innovation and entrepreneurship, frequently leading to the creation of new products and services that cater to diverse market needs.

Government Support

• Increased Budget Allocation: The Indian government has made notable efforts to bolster MSMEs, with the 2024-25 Union Budget allocating a substantial ₹22,137.95 crore to the MSME Ministry, marking a 41.6% increase from the previous fiscal year.
• Digital Initiatives: Initiatives such as Udyam Registration and the MSME SAMBANDH portal have been introduced to streamline processes and provide support to MSMEs.
• Champions Platform: Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Champions platform offers support and guidance to MSMEs and new entrepreneurs, facilitating their growth and success.