UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 3rd January 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/Governance

SPORTS AWARDS

Source: Times of India

Why in News?

Double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker has been awarded the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award, alongside prominent athletes such as World chess champion D. Gukesh, men’s hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh, and Paralympic gold medallist Praveen Kumar. The government has also announced 32 athletes for the Arjuna Award, which includes 16 Paralympians.

Key Takeaways

• Manu Bhaker's initial exclusion from the award list led to controversy.
• The final decision on the awards rests with the Union Sports Minister.
• The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna is the highest sporting honour in India.

Additional Details

• Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna: Established in 1991-1992, it was formerly known as the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award. It is awarded for exceptional performance in sports over the last four years, including a medallion, certificate, and a cash prize of ₹25 lakh.
• Arjuna Award: Recognizes outstanding performance in sports and games over the previous four years. It is awarded for demonstrating leadership, sportsmanship, and discipline, consisting of a statuette, certificate, ceremonial dress, and a cash prize of ₹5 lakh.
• Arjuna Award (Lifetime): Honors sportspersons for their contribution to sports post-retirement.
• Dronacharya Award: Given to coaches for exceptional and consistent contributions to sports training and athlete success.
• Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy: Awarded to the top-performing university in the Khelo India University Games.

These awards not only recognize individual excellence but also highlight the importance of sports and coaching in India, aiming to inspire future generations of athletes.

GS3/Science and Technology

Genetically Modified Crops

Source: Royal Society

Why in News?

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has recently amended the rules concerning the selection process for experts in the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC).

Key Takeaways

• Amendments introduce new rules for conflict of interest disclosures.
• Focus on enhancing transparency and credibility in the regulation of GM crops.
• Current regulatory framework allows only cotton as a GM crop approved for cultivation in India.

Additional Details

• About GM Crops:Genetically Modified (GM) crops are created by altering a plant's DNA using genetic engineering techniques. This allows for the introduction of desirable traits, such as:
  • Resistance to pests and diseases
  • Improved nutritional content
  • Higher yield
• Benefits of GM Crops:
  • Increased yield contributing to food security.
  • Pest and disease resistance reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
  • Herbicide tolerance leading to more effective weed control.
  • Enhanced nutritional content addressing malnutrition.
  • Environmental benefits from reduced chemical inputs.
• Concerns regarding GM Crops:
  • Potential environmental impacts on non-target species and biodiversity.
  • Public health concerns despite extensive research indicating safety.
  • Economic issues related to corporate control and small farmer impacts.
  • Ethical debates around genetic manipulation and the need for clear labeling.
• Regulations in India: The Indian regulatory framework is overseen by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, with GEAC responsible for the review and approval of GMO activities. Currently, cotton is the only GM crop authorized for commercial cultivation.

The recent amendments aim to enhance the credibility of the GEAC by mandating experts to disclose any conflicts of interest, ensuring that decisions regarding GM crops are made transparently and without external influences. This development follows a Supreme Court directive aimed at creating a national policy on GM crops, addressing longstanding concerns about corporate influence in the sector.

GS3/Economy

Understanding Front-Running in Securities Market

Source: Business Standard

Why in News?

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has identified a significant front-running scam within the securities market, leading to the debarment of 22 entities, including stock brokers. SEBI has also confiscated ₹66 crore deemed as 'wrongful gains' from the involved parties.

Key Takeaways

• Front-running is an unethical or illegal practice where an individual, such as a broker or trader, makes trades based on non-public information regarding large orders.
• The primary aim is to profit from expected price changes before the large orders are executed and affect market prices.

Additional Details

• How Front-Running Works:
  • Step 1: Advance Information: A broker or trader receives non-public information about a significant buy or sell order from a client or institutional investor.
  • Step 2: Personal Trade Execution: Prior to executing the client's order, the broker/trader places their own trade to capitalize on the anticipated price movement. Once the large order is executed, the market reacts, allowing the broker/trader to profit by buying or selling at a more favorable price.
• SEBI's Prohibition of Fraudulent and Unfair Trade Practices Regulations (PFUTP) explicitly prohibit such actions, emphasizing the need for ethical trading practices in the securities market.

This incident underscores the importance of regulatory oversight in maintaining fairness and integrity within the financial markets, helping to protect investors from unethical trading practices.

GS3/Environment

What is Incineration?

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Why in News?

Residents of Pithampur are expressing strong concerns regarding the incineration of 377 Metric Tonnes of hazardous waste from Union Carbide, which has been transported from Bhopal. This situation raises significant issues related to environmental safety and public health.

Key Takeaways

• Incineration is a method for burning hazardous materials at high temperatures to eliminate contaminants.
• This process takes place in an incinerator, which is specifically designed for such high-temperature combustion.
• Incineration effectively destroys many harmful chemicals but does not eliminate metals like lead and chromium.
• The heat generated from incineration can be harnessed for energy production, making it a form of waste-to-energy.

Additional Details

• Incineration Process:Before incineration, hazardous materials must be excavated or pumped into containers. They may require additional preparation, such as:
  • Grinding or removing large rocks and debris
  • Removing excess water
• Once prepared, the materials are placed in the combustion chamber of the incinerator, where they are heated to extremely high temperatures for a designated period, depending on the type of waste.
• Oxygen, either from air or pure sources, may be introduced to facilitate combustion. As the materials heat up, contaminants volatilize, converting into gases, most of which are destroyed during the process.
• Gases that remain unburned are redirected to a secondary combustion chamber for further treatment, followed by air pollution control systems that eliminate particulate matter and acid gases.

The ongoing protests by Pithampur residents highlight the community's fears regarding air and water contamination resulting from incineration, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of waste management practices.

GS2/Governance

Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC)

Source: PIB

Why in News?

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has recently amended the rules for selecting experts to the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), highlighting the importance of transparency and conflict of interest management within this statutory body.

Key Takeaways

• The GEAC is a statutory committee established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
• Originally known as the Genetic Engineering Approval Committee, it was renamed in 2010.
• The committee is responsible for assessing the environmental impact of genetically engineered organisms.
• Recent amendments emphasize the need for expert members to disclose potential conflicts of interest.

Additional Details

• Function: The GEAC appraises large-scale activities involving hazardous microorganisms and genetically engineered organisms, focusing on their environmental implications.
• Composition: Chaired by the Special Secretary or Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) and includes 24 members from various ministries and institutions such as ICAR and ICMR.
• New Rules: Experts must disclose any interests that could conflict with their duties and recuse themselves from discussions on matters where they have a direct or indirect association.

Overall, the GEAC plays a critical role in regulating the use and commercialization of genetically modified organisms in India, ensuring environmental safety and adherence to legal standards.

GS2/International Relations

Ukraine Ends Supply of Russian Gas to Europe

Source: The Economic Times

Why in News?

For over four decades, Russian gas has been transported to Europe via Ukraine. However, this supply is set to cease on January 1, following Ukraine's Naftogaz decision not to renew its latest five-year transit agreement with Russia's Gazprom.

Key Takeaways

• The Urengoy-Pomary-Uzhgorod pipeline, a crucial gas export route from Russia to Europe, primarily traverses Ukraine.
• Ukraine's cessation of gas transit is expected to have significant economic impacts both locally and for Gazprom.

Additional Details

• Urengoy-Pomary-Uzhgorod Pipeline: Also known as the Brotherhood pipeline, it is a major natural gas export route starting at the Urengoy gas field in northwest Siberia and extending to Uzhhorod, Ukraine, covering approximately 4,500 kilometers (2,800 miles), with about 1,160 kilometers (720 miles) in Ukraine. It has been operational since 1984 and is integral to Russia's gas export strategy to Europe.
• Volume of Gas Supplied: At its peak, the pipeline delivered about 201 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas to Europe in 2018. However, due to geopolitical tensions, this figure has dropped significantly, with only about 15 bcm shipped through Ukraine in 2023 compared to 65 bcm under the previous five-year contract beginning in 2020.
• Economic Consequences for Ukraine: The cessation of gas flows is expected to lead to a loss of up to $1 billion annually in transit fees for Ukraine. In response, Ukraine plans to increase gas transmission tariffs for domestic consumers, potentially imposing additional costs exceeding $38.2 million per year on its industry.
• Impact on Gazprom: Russia's Gazprom is projected to lose around $5 billion in gas sales due to the halted transit.
• European Energy Security: The European Union is prepared for this transition and does not foresee immediate impacts on consumer prices. Countries like Slovakia and Austria have arranged alternative gas supplies from Norway and LNG imports from the U.S. and Qatar. Hungary will continue to receive Russian gas through the TurkStream pipeline under the Black Sea.
• Energy Crisis in Moldova: The cessation has triggered an energy emergency in Transdniestria, a breakaway region relying on these transit flows, leading to heating and hot water supply cutoffs for residents.

In conclusion, Ukraine's decision to end gas transit through its territory marks a significant shift in European energy dynamics, highlighting the need for enhanced energy diversification and support for affected regions to ensure long-term energy security.

GS3/Economy

Wholesale Price Index

Source: PIB

Why in News?

The Central government has initiated the formation of an expert panel aimed at revising the constituents of India's Wholesale Price Index (WPI).

Key Takeaways

• The expert panel consists of 18 members and is led by Ramesh Chand from NITI Aayog.
• The panel will consider transitioning to a Producers' Price Index (PPI) with a proposed new base year of 2022-23.
• Final report submission is expected by June 30, 2026.

Additional Details

• What is Inflation? Inflation refers to the general increase in prices of goods and services, leading to a decrease in purchasing power. For example, if prices rise without a corresponding increase in income, consumers can buy fewer goods.
• What is Wholesale Price Index (WPI)? WPI measures the changes in prices of goods sold in bulk by wholesale businesses. It is crucial for tracking economic dynamics in industries like manufacturing and construction.
• Calculation of WPI: The index is calculated based on the wholesale prices of 697 selected commodities, chosen for their regional significance, with 2011-12 as the base year.
• Major Components of WPI:
  • Primary articles: 22.62%, which includes food and non-food articles.
  • Fuel & Power: 13.15%, tracking prices of petrol, diesel, and LPG.
  • Manufactured Goods: 64.23%, covering various products from textiles to chemicals.
• Headline vs. Core Inflation: Headline inflation includes all goods, while core inflation excludes volatile food and fuel prices. Core inflation provides a more stable measure, particularly relevant in developing economies.
• Difference between WPI and CPI: WPI tracks wholesale prices, while the Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures the average price households pay for goods and services. The RBI shifted focus to CPI for better monitoring of living costs and inflation control.

This initiative to reform the WPI is significant for aligning India's price measurement tools with global standards, enhancing the accuracy and relevance of economic indicators.

GS2/Polity

National Sports Awards 2024

Source: TOI

Why in News?

The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports has recently announced the winners of the National Sports Awards for the year 2024, recognizing outstanding performances and contributions in the field of sports.

Key Takeaways

• The National Sports Awards are presented annually to honor excellence in sports.
• Major awards include the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, Arjuna Award, Dronacharya Award, and the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy.
• This year’s awards were determined by a Selection Committee led by Justice (Retd.) V. Ramasubramanian.

Additional Details

• Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award: This prestigious award is conferred for exceptional and outstanding performance by a sportsperson over the last four years.
• Arjuna Award: Awarded for remarkable performance in sports, it recognizes athletes who have shown leadership, sportsmanship, and discipline over a similar period.
• Arjuna Award (Lifetime): This award honors athletes who have made significant contributions to sports even after retiring from active competition.
• Dronacharya Award: It is presented to coaches who have consistently enabled their athletes to excel in international events.
• MAKA Trophy: Awarded to the university that performs the best overall in the Khelo India University Games.
• The Selection Committee included eminent sportspersons, sports journalists, and administrators.

These awards play a crucial role in promoting sports in the country and encouraging athletes to strive for excellence, thereby enhancing the overall sporting culture in India.

GS3/Science and Technology

Melatonin and Its Potential in Parkinson's Disease Treatment

Source: PIB

Why in News?

Recent scientific studies have demonstrated that the nano-formulation of Melatonin exhibits enhanced antioxidative and neuroprotective properties, suggesting it could serve as a promising therapeutic option for Parkinson's disease (PD).

Key Takeaways

• Melatonin is a neurohormone produced by the pineal gland in response to darkness.
• Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement control.
• Age is a significant risk factor for developing Parkinson's, with symptoms typically appearing around age 60.

Additional Details

• Melatonin: This neurohormone regulates sleep-wake cycles and promotes sleepiness, typically taking effect 30 to 45 minutes after secretion. Its levels peak during the night and diminish as morning approaches.
• Parkinson's Disease: This disorder results from the degeneration of nerve cells in the substantia nigra, a brain region responsible for movement regulation. The loss of these cells impairs the production of dopamine, a crucial neurotransmitter necessary for coordinating muscle movements.
• Although there is currently no cure for Parkinson's disease, various treatments can significantly alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

Overall, the exploration of Melatonin's nano-formulation offers new hope in the management and treatment of Parkinson's disease, addressing both its oxidative stress and neuroprotective needs.

GS1/Geography

Winter Char Dham

Source: The Indian Express

Why in News?

The Uttarakhand government inaugurated the winter Char Dham circuit on December 8, aiming to attract tourists to the state during the off-season winter months.

Key Takeaways

• The Char Dham comprises four significant shrines: Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
• Heavy snowfall during winter renders these shrines inaccessible, leading to seasonal closures.
• The initiative aims to promote off-season tourism and boost the local economy.

Additional Details

• Char Dham Shrines: Located in the Garhwal Himalayas, these shrines are visited by lakhs of pilgrims annually from May to November, significantly contributing to Uttarakhand's economy.
• Winter Accessibility:During winter, the deities are relocated to lower-altitude "winter seats":
  • Gangotri: Mukhba, Uttarkashi
  • Yamunotri: Kharsali, Uttarkashi
  • Kedarnath: Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath, Rudraprayag
  • Badrinath: Pandukeshwar, Chamoli
• The Winter Char Dham initiative has seen a notable footfall, with over 15,000 pilgrims visiting as of December 30, indicating a growing interest in winter tourism.
• Economic Impact: The Char Dham pilgrimage generates over Rs 200 crore daily during the peak season, with hopes of increasing winter tourism.

In summary, the Winter Char Dham initiative seeks to transform Uttarakhand into a year-round tourist destination while also addressing environmental concerns associated with increased pilgrimage traffic. Sustainable management is essential to preserve the region's natural and cultural heritage.

GS3/Environment

Brazilian Velvet Ant

Why in News?

Recent scientific discoveries have unveiled fascinating characteristics of the Brazilian Velvet Ant, particularly its unique light-reflecting properties and adaptations that aid in its survival.

Key Takeaways

• The Brazilian Velvet Ant species reflects less than 1% of light due to its dark markings.
• These wasps exhibit a suite of defensive adaptations, including bright colors and a painful sting.

Additional Details

• Appearance: Brazilian Velvet Ants are recognized for their distinct black and white markings. Some species are wingless, contributing to their unique appearance.
• Habitat: They are primarily found in the Caatinga, a type of shrub desert located in Brazil.
• Behavior: These wasps are known for their remarkable mobility, often covering vast distances in search of hosts. Their activity peaks during the early morning and late afternoon, especially when sunlight is subdued.
• Unique Finding: It has been discovered that the black parts of female velvet ants possess ultrablack pigmentation, allowing them to absorb nearly all visible light. This adaptation is significant as ultrablack pigmentation is rare in the animal kingdom.
• This pigmentation offers advantages such as predator evasion, body temperature regulation, and potentially attracting mates due to the contrast with brighter colors.

The discovery of the Brazilian Velvet Ant's ultrablack pigmentation not only enriches our understanding of this species but also highlights the remarkable adaptations that organisms can develop in response to their environments.

GS3/Economy

The Debate on Cash Transfers: Freebies or Greater State Investment in Reforms

Source: The Indian Express

Why in News?

Cash transfers have become a significant aspect of social protection schemes globally, aiming to tackle challenges such as poverty, health access, and education. In India, the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) has been instrumental in providing pensions to vulnerable populations. However, these transfers have increasingly been used as political tools, raising questions about their effectiveness in addressing deeper societal issues.

Key Takeaways

• Cash transfer schemes are being utilized by political parties for electoral gain.
• Concerns exist about the effectiveness of cash transfers in solving root social issues.
• Direct financial assistance can empower marginalized groups, especially women.
• There is a need for a more nuanced understanding of welfare and developmental investments.

Additional Details

• Political Use of Cash Transfers: Political parties have adopted cash transfer schemes, such as those in Maharashtra and Jharkhand, to appeal to voters, particularly targeting women. These schemes have been linked to electoral success.
• Assumptions about Effectiveness: The belief that cash transfers alone can resolve issues like poverty and unemployment is flawed, as these problems often stem from deeper systemic issues.
• Implementation Challenges: Cash transfers can lead to both exclusion and inclusion errors, undermining their intended fairness and effectiveness.
• Empowering Women: Initiatives like free bus rides for women in Delhi have shown that targeted cash transfers can significantly improve women's access to employment and education.
• Economic Impact: Cash transfers can stimulate demand by increasing purchasing power among lower-income groups, improving overall quality of life.
• Balancing Welfare and Development: The Delhi Model illustrates that welfare schemes and investments in infrastructure can coexist, leading to sustainable improvements in public services.

In conclusion, while cash transfers offer immediate benefits, their over-reliance as political tools can undermine long-term social objectives. A balanced approach that integrates cash transfers into broader strategies addressing systemic issues is essential for sustainable development.