UPSC Daily Current Affairs - 29th June 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Science and Technology

Why Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams is stuck in space?

Source: Money Control

Why in news?

The scheduled return of the Starliner spacecraft, which transported NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore to the International Space Station (ISS) earlier this month, has been delayed.

What is the Starliner mission?

Objective:

The Starliner Crew Flight Test mission aimed to transport NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore to the International Space Station (ISS) and demonstrate the spacecraft’s capability to safely ferry crew to and from low-Earth orbit (LEO).

Craft Description:

CST-100 Starliner, developed by Boeing in collaboration with NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, is designed to accommodate up to seven passengers or a mix of crew and cargo for LEO missions. It is reusable up to 10 times with a turnaround time of six months.

Significance:

Marks Boeing’s contribution to NASA’s efforts since the retirement of the Space Shuttle Program in 2011, alongside SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, which first delivered cargo in 2012 and transported astronauts in 2020.

What has caused the delay?

Technical Issues:

• Multiple setbacks delayed the mission, including a faulty pressure valve on the Atlas V upper stage, engineering problems with other mechanisms, and issues with a spacecraft valve regulating oxidisers.

Specific Challenges:

• Post-launch, Starliner encountered five helium leaks, malfunctioning maneuvering thrusters, and a propellant valve failure, necessitating mid-mission fixes and assessments.

What happens to the astronauts now?

Current Status:

Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore remain aboard the ISS, where they are conducting research and experiments. The spacecraft can stay docked for up to 45 days, and the ISS has sufficient supplies for extended periods.

Contingency Plan:

If safety concerns persist or the Starliner issues cannot be resolved in time, the astronauts may return to Earth aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, currently also docked at the ISS.

Way forward (what can NASA do?)

Thorough Technical Review:

• NASA should conduct a comprehensive technical review of the Starliner spacecraft’s systems and components to identify the root causes of the multiple issues encountered during the mission.

Enhanced Mission Preparedness:

• NASA should prioritize enhancing mission preparedness protocols for commercial crew missions, including stricter pre-launch checks, contingency planning for mid-mission anomalies, and robust communication and coordination between mission control and astronauts aboard the ISS. This proactive approach can mitigate risks and ensure smoother operations in future missions.

Mains PYQ:

What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme? (UPSC IAS/2019)

GS3/Science and Technology

Geoportals for Enhanced Rural Land Records and Emergency Management

Why in news?

The Union Ministry of Science and Technology launched two Geoportals: 'Bhuvan Panchayat (Ver. 4.0)' for rural land records and 'National Database for Emergency Management (NDEM Ver. 5.0)'. These portals were developed by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). These geospatial tools provide high-resolution satellite imagery of 1:10K scale for various locations across the country.

About Bhuvan Panchayat (Ver. 4.0)

• This portal supports "Space-based Information Support for Decentralized Planning (SISDP)".
• It aims to empower citizens at the grassroots level by providing real-time land record data and reducing dependency on local administration and corruption.
• It promotes ease of living through digitalization and better land revenue management.
• By providing real-time data accessible to citizens, it reduces opportunities for corruption at the local level.
• It enhances transparency and efficiency in land record management, aiding in effective governance and planning.

About National Database for Emergency Management (NDEM Ver. 5.0)

• This portal provides space-based inputs on natural disasters, aiding in disaster risk reduction in India and neighboring countries.
• It establishes an effective early warning system to proactively prevent disasters and monitor land use changes.
• A command center has been established to monitor situations and provide valuable inputs continuously.
• The portal is designed to assist not only India but also in disaster management.
• It promotes coordination between various agencies and local authorities for effective disaster response and management.

GS1/History & Culture

50th Year of the Imposition of Emergency in India

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

A dark chapter in modern Indian history that left a wide-ranging and lasting impact on Indian politics, a state of Emergency declared by the then-PM Indira Gandhi on June 25, 1975, lasted for 21 months. India entered the fiftieth year of the imposition of the Emergency, which saw the suspension of civil liberties, curtailment of press freedom, mass arrests, the cancellation of elections, and rule by decree.

Emergency Provisions - Now and Then

• Under Article 352 of the Constitution of India, the President may (on the advice of the Council of Ministers headed by the PM) issue a proclamation of emergency if the security of India or any part of the country is threatened by:
• War or
• External aggression or
• Armed rebellion.

Impacts of the Declaration of Emergency on India's Federal Structure

• Converts the federal structure into a unitary one
• Though not suspended, the state governments come under the complete control of the Centre.
• Parliament makes laws on subjects in the State List, and extends the Union's executive powers to the states.
• The Union acquires the right to give any direction to state governments.

The Political and Social Circumstances in India Leading up to the Emergency

• January 1966: Indira Gandhi elected prime minister.
• November 1969: The Congress splits after Gandhi is expelled for violating party discipline.
• 1973-75: Surge in political unrest and demonstrations against the Indira Gandhi-led government.
• 1971: Political opponent Raj Narain lodges complaint of electoral fraud against Indira Gandhi.

End of Emergency and Afterwards

• January 18, 1977: Indira Gandhi calls for fresh elections and releases all political prisoners.
• The elections of 1977 led to a comprehensive defeat for Indira and Morarji Desai became India's first non-Congress (Janata Party) Prime Minister.
• March 23, 1977: Emergency officially comes to an end.
• The Shah Commission, constituted by the Janata government, found the decision to impose Emergency to be unilateral and adversely affecting civil liberties.

GS2/International Relations

China’s ‘Five Principles’ of Foreign Policy

Why in news?

China is set to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, a foreign policy concept initially outlined in a 1954 agreement with India, with special events scheduled for Friday, June 28th.

How It Started?

• Historical Context: India attained independence from British rule in 1947, and the People’s Republic of China was established in 1949 after a civil war victory by the Chinese communists. Nehru aimed to establish good relations with China based on trust and mutual respect, a sentiment reciprocated by China initially.
• Origins and Proposal: The Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, known as Panchsheel in India, were proposed by Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai during bilateral talks with India over Tibet in 1954. This initiative was favored by Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
• Panchsheel Agreement: The agreement, formally titled “The Agreement on Trade and Intercourse with Tibet Region,” was signed on April 29, 1954. It was intended to enhance trade and cooperation, establishing trade centers and pilgrimage routes while recognizing Tibet as part of China.
• Principles: The five guiding principles laid out in the agreement were mutual respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty, mutual non-aggression, mutual non-interference, equality and mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence.
• Bandung Conference: The Five Principles featured prominently in the 1955 Bandung Conference in Indonesia, which included 29 Asian and African countries. The principles were co-opted into a 10-point declaration and later became central to the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).

Where It Stands Now?

• After the India-China War of 1962: The principles of Panchsheel were severely undermined by the Sino-Indian War in 1962, leading to criticism of Nehru for misjudging Chinese intentions.
• China’s Foreign Policy Shift: Over the past three decades, especially under President Xi Jinping, China has adopted a more aggressive foreign policy. This includes territorial claims in the South China Sea and hostile situations with neighbouring countries.
• China’s Relations with the U.S: China’s relationship with the United States has been marked by hostility, characterized by trade and diplomatic challenges to American dominance globally.
• India-China Relations Today: Since 2020, Indian and Chinese forces have been in a standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh, with repeated but unsuccessful attempts to resolve the conflict.
• Commemoration of 5 Principles by China: Despite the current strained relations, China commemorates the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles with a forward-looking theme, emphasizing building a community with a shared future for mankind.

Way forward: (What can India do?)

• Engage in Diplomatic Dialogue: Despite historical tensions, maintaining open lines of diplomatic communication with China is crucial. India can continue efforts to engage in dialogue at multiple levels to manage and resolve bilateral disputes, including the ongoing situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh.
• Strengthen Regional Alliances: Enhancing partnerships with other countries in the region and beyond can provide India with strategic leverage. Strengthening alliances through economic cooperation, military partnerships, and cultural exchanges can help counterbalance China’s influence and foster stability in the region.
• Focus on Economic and Technological Development: Investing in economic growth and technological advancement can bolster India’s position on the global stage. Developing robust infrastructure, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, and advancing sustainable development goals can strengthen India’s resilience and competitiveness in the face of geopolitical challenges.

Mains PYQ:

China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbor. (UPSC IAS/2017)

GS1/Geography

LEBANON

Source: Times of India

Why in news?

Israel has issued a strong warning, stating that if war were to break out with Hezbollah, it could result in Lebanon being “returned to the Stone Age.” Hezbollah is a Lebanese Shia Islamist political party and paramilitary group. Its actions have significant regional implications, and tensions persist between Hezbollah and Israel.

About Lebanon:

• Lebanon is a small Middle Eastern nation situated on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea in Western Asia.
• It shares land borders with two countries: Syria to the north and east, and Israel to the south.
• The western part of Lebanon is bounded by the Mediterranean Sea, and it also shares maritime borders with Cyprus.

Disputed Border:

• One of the contentious issues is the disputed border between Lebanon and Israel.
• The Israel-Lebanon conflict has a complex history, including the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.
• The Blue Line, drawn by the UN after Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon in 2000, remains a contentious issue.

GS1/History & Culture

'Veerangana' Uda Devi and 'Maharaja' Bijli Pasi invoked during oath taking

Source: Indian Express

Why in news?

Earlier, a newly-elected MP from Faizabad, took his oath in the Lok Sabha. During the ceremony, he mentioned Veerangana Uda Devi and Maharaja Bijli Pasi, who are important figures in the Pasi (Dalit) community.

Parliamentary oath

About the third schedule of the Constitution contains the parliamentary oath. Through this, members swear or affirm to bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India, uphold India's sovereignty and integrity, and faithfully discharge their duties.

Evolution of oath over the years

• The draft Constitution, prepared by the committee chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, initially did not invoke God in any oaths, emphasizing a solemn and sincere promise to uphold the Constitution.
• During the Constituent Assembly discussions, members like K.T. Shah and Mahavir Tyagi proposed amendments to include God in the President's oath. They argued that it would provide a divine sanction for believers while allowing non-believers to affirm solemnly.
• Despite disagreements, Ambedkar accepted the amendments, recognizing the significance of invoking God for some individuals.
• The last modification to the oath came with the Constitution (Sixteenth Amendment) Act, 1963. This amendment added the commitment to uphold India's sovereignty and integrity, following recommendations from the National Integration Council.

Process

• Before taking the oath or affirmation, MPs must submit their election certificate to the Lok Sabha staff. This requirement was introduced after a 1957 incident where a mentally unsound individual posed as an MP and took the oath.
• MPs can then take their oath or affirmation in English or any of the 22 languages specified in the Constitution.
• MPs must use the name on their election certificate and adhere to the text of the oath. Deviations, such as adding suffixes or phrases, are not recorded, and MPs may be asked to retake the oath.
• While oaths and affirmations are a personal choice, 87% of MPs swore in the name of God in the last Lok Sabha, with the remaining 13% affirming allegiance to the Constitution.

Invoking different icons during oath taking ceremony in Parliament

• During the oath-taking ceremony in Parliament, elected members often invoke or mention various icons, historical figures, or personalities who hold significance to them personally or to their constituency or community.
• This can include mentioning leaders, historical figures, social reformers, or cultural icons who have made significant contributions to society or who represent important values and aspirations.
• These mentions can highlight the diversity and richness of India's cultural and historical heritage, as well as the personal or political affiliations of the elected members.

Uda Devi

• Uda Devi, born in Ujirao, Lucknow, was part of the royal guard of Begum Hazrat Mahal of Awadh and took part in the 1857 Mutiny. She is known for mobilizing people to fight against the British.
• On November 16, 1857, she fought bravely near the Gomti River in Lucknow, reportedly killing at least three dozen British soldiers before being killed herself.
• Every year on November 16, events are held in central Uttar Pradesh to commemorate her martyrdom. Uda Devi remains an important icon, especially for the Dalit community.

Bijli Pasi

• Bijli Pasi is a well-known figure among the Pasis of central Uttar Pradesh, including districts like Lucknow, Rae Bareli, Barabanki, Bahraich, Sultanpur, and Allahabad.
• He is one of the most prominent Pasi leaders, having ruled parts of UP during the medieval period. The ruins of his fort still stand in Lucknow, where a statue of him has also been erected.
• Other notable Pasi figures from this region include Daldev, Baldev, and Kakoran.

GS3/Economy

RBI raises WMA limits of States/UTs

Source: Business Standard

Why in news?

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has increased the Ways and Means Advances (WMA) limits of State governments and Union territories to ₹60,118 crore from ₹47,010 crore. This decision is based on the suggestions from a group formed by the Reserve Bank, which included some state Finance Secretaries, and after reviewing the states' recent spending data. This increase will come into effect from July 1, 2024.

• The RBI further said that Special Drawing Facility (SDF) availed by State Governments/ UTs will continue to be linked to the quantum of their investments in marketable securities, issued by the Government, including Auction Treasury Bills (ATBs).

About Ways and Means Advances (WMA)

• WMA are temporary loan facilities provided by the RBI to the central and state governments to help them manage temporary mismatches in their receipts and expenditures. These borrowings are meant purely to help them to tide over temporary mismatches in cash flows of their receipts and expenditures. The WMA scheme was introduced on April 1, 1997.

Legal provision

• Section 17(5) of the RBI Act, 1934 authorizes the central bank to lend to the Centre and state governments subject to their being repayable “not later than three months from the date of the making of the advance”.

Types

• Normal WMA: A fixed limit is set, and borrowing within this limit is charged at the repo rate.
• Special WMA or Special Drawing Facility: Additional borrowing over and above the normal WMA, backed by the government securities held by the state government. After the state exhausts the limit of SDF, it gets normal WMA.

Key features

• Duration: The advances are typically short-term, with a duration of up to 90 days. If the amount is not returned within this period, it would be treated as an overdraft. The interest rate on overdrafts is 2 percentage points more than the repo rate.
• Interest Rates: Interest rates on WMA are linked to the repo rate. For Normal WMA: interest rate = repo rate; For Special WMA: interest rate = one percentage points less than repo rate; For overdraft: interest rate = 2 percentage points more than the repo rate.
• Limits: The RBI, in consultation with the government, sets limits for WMA for both the central and state governments. These limits are reviewed periodically.
• Number of loans: Number of loans under normal WMA is based on a three-year average of actual revenue and capital expenditure of the state.

Benefits of WMA

• Liquidity Management: Helps the government manage its day-to-day liquidity requirements, ensuring that short-term cash flow mismatches do not disrupt essential spending.
• Fiscal Discipline: Encourages better fiscal management as the governments are expected to repay the advances within a stipulated period, promoting timely receipt and disbursement of funds.
• Interest Cost Savings: The interest rate on WMA is typically lower than market borrowing rates, reducing the interest burden on the government.
• Flexible Funding: Provides a flexible source of funds for immediate and unforeseen expenditures without having to resort to market borrowings, which might be time-consuming and more expensive.
• Market Stability: By avoiding sudden large borrowings from the market, WMA helps in maintaining stability in the government securities market.

Limitations and Risks

• Short-Term Solution: WMA is only a short-term solution and cannot be relied upon for long-term fiscal issues.
• Repayment Pressure: The need to repay within a short period might create additional pressure on the government’s finances.
• Interest Costs: While the interest rate is lower than market borrowings, prolonged use of WMA can still add to the interest burden if not managed properly.

GS1/History & Culture

UNESCO World Heritage Site of Somanathapura

Source: The Hindu

Why in news?

Karnataka’s Tourism Department plans to highlight Somanathapura Temple, part of the Hoysala temples, in the Mysuru tourism circuit ahead of Dasara, leveraging its UNESCO World Heritage status. The Somanathapura Temple, along with other Hoysala temples such as the Chennakeshava Temple at Belur and the Hoysaleshwara Temple at Halebid, (called ‘Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala’) was granted UNESCO WHS in September 2023.

About Keshava Temple, Somanathapura

• The Keshava Temple is considered one of the last grand structures built by the Hoysala dynasty. 
• This Trikuta (three-shrined) is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is represented in three forms: Janardhana, Keshava, and Venugopala. The main Keshava idol is missing, and the Janardhana and Venugopala idols are damaged.

Historical Background

• The Keshava Temple was constructed by a commander of the Hoysala Army, during the reign of Hoysala King Narasimha III. 
• Somanatha, who had established a town named Somanathapura after himself, sought the king’s permission and resources to build this grand temple. 
• With the king’s blessing, construction commenced and was completed in 1268 AD. 
• An inscription in old Kannada on a stone slab in the temple provides details of its construction and consecration. After demolitions by invaders, it no longer serves as a place of worship.

Architecture

• The temple is constructed from soapstone, which allows for the fine detailing seen in the carvings. 
• It is built on a raised platform with an outer Pradakshina pathway, allowing devotees to circum-ambulate the sanctum. 
• The temple features a stellar (star-shaped) plan, which creates multiple corners and niches, providing numerous canvases for the sculptors to showcase their intricate work. 
• The temple has three shrines, each crowned with a Vimana (tower). 
• Hoysala emblem, depicting a warrior fighting a lion, is prominently displayed. 
• The walls of the temple are adorned with beautiful friezes depicting scenes from Hindu epics, figures of elephants, and battle scenes with cavalry.

Previous Year Questions (PYQ)

1. Building ‘Kalyana Mandapas’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of

a) Chalukya

b) Chandela

c) Rashtrakuta

d) Vijayanagara

2. The Nagara, the Dravida and the Vesara are the:

a) three main racial groups of the Indian subcontinent

b) three main linguistic divisions into which the languages of India can be classified

c) three main styles of Indian temple architecture

d) three main musical Gharanas prevalent in India

3. Chola architecture represents a high watermark in the evolution of temple architecture. Discuss.

GS3/Environment

Climate change forces Panama islanders to relocate

Source: Indian Express

Why in news?

In early June, approximately 300 families were relocated from the island of Gardi Sugdub in Panama's Guna Yala province due to concerns about rising sea levels.

What is happening in Gardi Sugdub?

• Location and Community: Gardi Sugdub, home to about 1,300 members of the Guna community, is an island in Panama’s Guna Yala province.
• Sea Level Rise: The Caribbean region, where Panama is situated, is experiencing sea level rise at an average rate of 3 to 4 millimeters per year. This rate is expected to accelerate to 1 centimeter per year or more by 2100.
• Flooding: Annually, particularly in November and December, seawater floods houses and streets on Gardi Sugdub, despite efforts to fortify the island.
• Relocation: The Panamanian government constructed 300 new houses on the mainland in a development called Nuevo Cartí to relocate affected families.

How are other island nations affected by sea level rise?

• Examples of Impact: Islands such as Tuvalu, the Marshall Islands, and Kiribati are experiencing significant land loss and threats to their culture and economies.
• Consequences: Coastal erosion, salinization of freshwater resources, and increased vulnerability to extreme weather events due to rising sea levels, storm surges, and 'king tides'.
• Global Sea Level Rise: Since 1880, global sea levels have risen by approximately 21-24 centimeters. The rate of increase has accelerated in recent decades.
• Causes: The primary drivers are global warming, thermal expansion of seawater, and the melting of land-based ice such as glaciers and ice sheets.
• Global Temperature Increase: The global average temperature has increased by at least 1.1 degrees Celsius since 1880, contributing to rising sea levels.

Way forward:

• Strengthen Coastal and Environmental Defenses: Construct seawalls, breakwaters, and other barriers to protect against storm surges and coastal erosion. Restore and preserve natural coastal barriers such as mangroves, coral reefs, and wetlands to enhance natural protection.
• Develop and Implement Climate Adaptation Strategies: Create comprehensive climate adaptation plans that include relocation strategies for vulnerable communities.

Mains PYQ:

Explain the causes and effects of coastal erosion in India. What are the available coastal management techniques for combating the hazard? (UPSC IAS/2022)