UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 8th November 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Science and Technology

What are Airships?

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

Recently, several companies have been exploring ways to manage the buoyancy of airships, addressing a longstanding challenge that has hindered their use for transporting cargo.

Airships

Airships are lighter-than-air vehicles that achieve lift by utilizing buoyant gases which are less dense than the surrounding atmosphere. These vehicles are classified into three primary types: 

• Non-rigid (or blimps)
• Semi-rigid
• Rigid

Typically designed in a bullet shape, airships are filled with helium or hydrogen and consist of three main components: a balloon-like hull, a gondola for passengers or cargo, and a propulsion system. In the early 20th century, airships were the first aircraft to achieve controlled powered flight and were once regarded as the future of travel. 

Airships operate on the principle of being lighter than the surrounding atmosphere. This principle is similar to that of helium balloons. Early models predominantly used hydrogen for lift due to its low cost and easy availability, but its highly flammable nature posed significant risks. In contrast, most modern airships utilize helium, which is safe and non-combustible. 

In contemporary usage, airships serve a limited range of functions, primarily: 

• Advertising platforms
• Aerial reconnaissance for scientific and military applications
• Tourism experiences

One of the key advantages of airships is their reduced environmental impact compared to airplanes, as they do not consume fossil fuels to generate lift. Additionally, they can access locations that are difficult for ships or trucks to reach. 

GS2/International Relations

India should be part of RCEP, CPTPP: NITI Aayog CEO

Source: New Indian Express

Why in news?

According to the CEO of NITI Aayog, India is encouraged to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). This move could have significant implications for India's trade and economic landscape.

Enhanced Trade Opportunities:

• Membership in RCEP and CPTPP could greatly enhance India's trade by opening access to larger markets, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
• These agreements cover a broad spectrum of goods and services, which could lead to an increase in India's exports, notably benefiting Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) that contribute to 40% of the country's exports.

Integration into Global Supply Chains:

• Joining these trade blocs would facilitate India's integration into global supply chains, aligning with the 'China plus one' strategy adopted by various nations to diversify supply sources beyond China.
• This integration could bolster India's manufacturing sector and attract foreign investment.

Regulatory Alignment:

• Being a part of these agreements would require India to align its regulatory frameworks with international standards, potentially improving the business environment and attracting more foreign direct investment (FDI).

Current Tariff Structure and Competitiveness:

• India's average applied tariff is approximately 13.8%, which is higher than China's (9.8%) and the U.S. (3.4%).
• Many bound tariff rates, especially on agricultural products, are among the highest globally, ranging from 100% to 300%, posing significant barriers for foreign exporters.

Risks of Joining RCEP:

• Increased competition with Chinese firms is a major risk, as they may have cost advantages due to economies of scale and established supply chains.
• Opening up to international competition could pressure domestic industries, particularly in less competitive sectors, potentially leading to job losses.
• Dependence on trade agreements might expose India to external economic fluctuations, especially if global demand shifts or geopolitical tensions arise.

Way Forward:

• India should negotiate for phased tariff reductions and secure protections for sensitive sectors like agriculture and small manufacturing to safeguard local industries.
• Strengthening MSMEs through targeted subsidies, infrastructure enhancements, and technology upgrades will help India utilize new market access and build resilience against foreign competition.

Mains PYQ:Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War international scenario. (UPSC IAS/2016)

GS2/Governance

PM-Vidyalaxmi Scheme

Source:Indian Express

Why in News?

The Union Cabinet has recently approved a new Central Sector Scheme called PM Vidyalaxmi, aimed at offering financial support to exceptionally qualified students who are pursuing higher education.

About the PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme:

• Objective: The scheme's main goal is to provide financial assistance to deserving students enrolled in quality educational institutions.
• Eligible Students: Students who gain admission to the top 860 Quality Higher Education Institutions (QHEIs), which encompass both government and private institutions.
• Annual Family Income Criteria: The scheme targets students from families with an annual income of up to ₹8 lakh, specifically those who do not qualify for any other government scholarships or interest subsidies.
• Eligibility Based on NIRF Rankings:
  • Institutions ranked in the top 100 across overall, category-specific, and domain-specific NIRF lists are eligible.
  • State government-run institutions ranked between 101-200 are included.
  • All institutions governed by the central government are eligible.
• Loan Amounts:
  • Loans can be availed up to ₹7.5 lakh, which come with a 75% credit guarantee.
  • For loans that do not exceed ₹10 lakh, a 3% interest subvention is provided during the moratorium period.
• Target Beneficiaries: The scheme aims to assist around 1 lakh students annually, with a focus on students pursuing technical or professional courses in government institutions.
• Financial Outlay: The total financial commitment for this scheme is ₹3,600 crore, covering the period from 2024-25 to 2030-31.
• Expected Impact: The scheme is expected to benefit 7 lakh new students through interest subvention over its duration.
• Application Process: Interested candidates can submit applications through the PM-Vidyalaxmi portal to avail loans and interest benefits.
• Payment Processing: Interest support payments will be managed through e-vouchers and Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) wallets.
• Significance: This initiative is designed to improve access to higher education for talented students, effectively lowering financial barriers.

GS1/Indian Society

KUMBH MELA

Source:Zee News

Why in news?

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is set to take place at Prayagraj from January 13th, 2025 to February 26th, 2025. This event is one of the largest religious gatherings on the planet and holds immense significance in Hindu tradition.

• The Kumbh Mela occurs every 12 years at four major pilgrimage sites: Prayagraj (where the Ganges, Yamuna, and Sarasvati rivers meet), Haridwar (on the banks of the Ganges), Nashik (along the Godavari river), and Ujjain (by the Shipra river).
• The timing of each Kumbh is meticulously calculated based on the astrological alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter. It is believed that taking part in the festival during these specific celestial configurations magnifies its spiritual benefits.
• A core ritual of the Kumbh Mela is the ceremonial bathing in the sacred rivers, which is thought to cleanse individuals of their sins and free both them and their forebears from the cycle of rebirth. This act is considered essential for attaining Moksha, or spiritual liberation.
• In 2017, UNESCO recognized the Kumbh Mela as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity, highlighting its global cultural significance and the need for its preservation.

GS2/Polity

Supreme Court to Decide on Aligarh Muslim University’s Minority Status

Source: NDTV

Why in News?

A Bench headed by the Chief Justice of India (CJI) is set to deliver its verdict on whether Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) is eligible to claim minority status under Article 30 of the Indian Constitution, with the ruling coinciding with the CJI's last working day in office.

Article 30 of the Indian Constitution:

• Article 30 provides protections for the rights of minority communities in India, ensuring they are treated equally.
• Article 30(1) grants the right to all minorities, based on religion or language, to establish and manage educational institutions of their choice.
• Article 30(1A) addresses the determination of compensation for the acquisition of properties belonging to educational institutions founded by minority groups.
• Article 30(2) prohibits the government from discriminating against educational institutions managed by minorities when it comes to providing aid.

Background of the Controversy around AMU’s Minority Status:

• The controversy traces back to 1967 when the Supreme Court ruled on challenges to amendments to AMU’s founding Act, claiming these amendments undermined the Muslim community's right to manage the institution.
• In 1951, non-Muslim individuals were permitted to join the University Court, which was then the supreme governing body, and the Visitor's role, previously held by the Lord Rector, was transferred to the President of India.
• In 1965, amendments expanded the powers of the Executive Council, limiting the authority of the University Court.
• The Supreme Court concluded that AMU was not established by the Muslim minority but rather created through the Aligarh Muslim University Act, 1920, which was a parliamentary decision.
• This judgement, known as the S. Azeez Basha vs. Union of India case, determined that AMU did not have the status of a minority institution.
• In 1981, the government modified the AMU Act to affirm that the institution was founded by the Muslim community to promote their educational and cultural aspirations.
• However, the Allahabad High Court invalidated this amendment and the university's 50% reservation for Muslims in 2006, reinforcing the earlier Azeez Basha ruling.
• The matter was subsequently referred to a larger bench, leading to a prolonged period of legal debate, with a seven-judge bench reserving its judgment in February.
• The forthcoming ruling will decide if the previous Azeez Basha judgement will be overturned.

Article 15(5) of the Constitution:

• This article exempts minority educational institutions from the requirement of reserving seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
• As AMU's minority status is currently under judicial consideration and the Supreme Court mandated in 2006 to maintain the status quo, the university does not have quotas for SC/ST groups.
• If the Supreme Court recognizes AMU as a minority institution, it would not be obligated to reserve seats for SC/ST/OBC/EWS categories but could reserve seats for Muslim students, potentially up to 50% or more.
• The administrative framework at AMU would transform from its existing structure, which currently includes a diverse Executive Council, to a system with a distinct admissions process.

Arguments from the Centre and AMU:

• The precedent set by St. Stephen’s College: The Supreme Court acknowledged the minority status of St. Stephen’s College in Delhi in 1992, affirming its right to admit up to 50% Christian students and manage its affairs independently.
• The Centre's argument: The Centre differentiated St. Stephen’s from AMU, asserting that St. Stephen’s was a privately founded institution, while AMU was established by legislative action and receives ongoing government funding.
• The Centre contended that AMU, being a national university, should uphold its secular character rather than prioritize the interests of a specific community.
• Counterarguments: Advocates for AMU argue that exempting the university from certain quotas would not adversely affect the public interest, as Article 30 endows minorities with specific rights.
• Senior advocate Kapil Sibal stated that minority rights play a crucial role in fostering equality among diverse social groups.
• He emphasized that, according to the St. Stephen’s ruling, minority communities maintain a "continuing right to administer" their institutions, regardless of government involvement.
• Senior advocate Rajeev Dhavan referenced institutions like Aliah University in Kolkata, which retains its minority status despite receiving government support.

Conclusion:

• The forthcoming decision from the Supreme Court is critical for AMU, as it will determine whether the university can claim minority status and maintain autonomy over its admissions and governance under Article 30.
• This ruling will also have significant implications for the rights of minority educational institutions and their interactions with state policies regarding social justice and equality.

GS3/Economy

India's CPI and IIP data release time to change

Source:Mint

Why in news?

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has made a significant adjustment to the release timing of key economic indicators—retail inflation (CPI) and factory output (IIP). Starting now, these statistics will be disclosed at 4 pm instead of the previous 5:30 pm on the 12th of each month. This change is designed to allow more thorough data analysis on the release day and to better align with the closing hours of India's primary financial markets.

Consumer Price Index (CPI)

• The CPI is a crucial metric for assessing retail inflation by gathering data on the prices of goods and services consumed by the public.
• The National Statistical Office (NSO), part of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, is responsible for releasing CPI figures.
• CPI is published for all of India, as well as for individual States and Union Territories, covering rural, urban, and combined categories.
• As of now, CPI calculations utilize 2012 as the base year.
• The CPI basket includes a diverse range of goods and services, categorized into sectors such as food and beverages, clothing, housing, fuel and light, recreation, and more.
• Each category of items is assigned specific weights, and currently, the CPI is calculated based on 299 different items.

Index of Industrial Production (IIP)

• The IIP measures industrial production over a specified period, typically monthly, in comparison to a reference period.
• There is generally a six-week delay in the release of IIP data after the reference month has concluded.
• The IIP is calculated using 2011-2012 as its base year.
• The NSO, under MoSPI, also publishes IIP statistics.

IIP Index Components

• The IIP serves as a composite indicator that tracks growth across various industrial sectors, categorized into:
  • Broad sectors: Mining (14.4%), Manufacturing (77.6%), and Electricity (8%).
  • Use-based sectors: Including Basic Goods, Capital Goods, and Intermediate Goods.
• The Eight Core Industries contribute approximately 40.27% to the IIP weight.

Consumer Price Index (CPI): Key Inflation Indicator

• The CPI monitors price changes for goods and services bought by consumers, acting as a primary macroeconomic measure of inflation.
• It is extensively utilized by governments and central banks for inflation management, ensuring price stability, and as a deflator in national accounts.
• The year-on-year change in CPI indicates how prices for a designated basket of goods are increasing.
• The current CPI (combined) employs the base year of 2012, having been updated from the previous base year of 2010 in January 2015.

Index of Industrial Production (IIP): Measure of Industrial Activity

• The IIP assesses the level of industrial production in an economy, reflecting short-term fluctuations in the output of selected industrial products compared to a base period (2011-12).
• This index evaluates industrial growth across three main sectors: Mining, Manufacturing, and Electricity, along with various use-based categories like basic goods, capital goods, intermediate goods, consumer durables, and non-durables.
• It serves as a short-term indicator of industrial activity until more comprehensive data from the Annual Survey of Industries and National Accounts Statistics is available.

About the News

• The Indian Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation is modifying the release schedule for critical economic data.
• The Consumer Price Index and Index of Industrial Production will now be made available at 4 pm on the 12th of each month.
• This new timing aligns with the closure of major financial markets in India, enhancing transparency and accessibility through this adjustment.
• Both CPI and IIP indicators are vital for informing economic policies and guiding market decisions.
• If the 12th falls on a holiday, CPI data will be released on the next working day, while IIP data will be made available the prior working day.

Previous Data Release Timing

• The earlier release time of 5:30 pm was established in 2013 following incidents of data leaks, which prompted the Ministry to shift the timing to mitigate the influence on trading during market hours.
• Previously, the data was released around 11-11:30 am, which had notable impacts on forex and bond markets.
• This timing was adjusted to align with market closures, as forex and bond markets typically end trading by 5 pm.
• Although retail inflation data has always been reported monthly, wholesale inflation data was released weekly until December 2012, when it transitioned to a monthly release on the 14th around noon.

Concerns About New Timing’s Market Sensitivity

• While the new release time aligns with stock market closures, analysts have raised concerns that government bonds and foreign exchange markets remain open until 5 pm, which could still influence real-time trading activities.
• The Ministry emphasizes that this timing change reflects MoSPI's commitment to enhancing transparency and accessibility of data.

GS2/Polity

Sanction Needed Under PMLA to Prosecute Public Servants

Source: Indian Express

Why in news?

The Supreme Court recently determined that Section 197(1) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), which requires prior government sanction to prosecute public servants, also applies to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). This ruling supports the Telangana High Court's decision that annulled a trial court's order allowing prosecution of IAS officers accused of money laundering.

• The Supreme Court upheld that any public servant accused of offenses related to their official duties must have government sanction for prosecution under the PMLA.
• Section 197(1) stipulates that a judge, magistrate, or public servant cannot be prosecuted for actions taken while performing their official duties without prior government approval.
• The Enforcement Directorate (ED) presented two arguments against the application of Section 197(1):
  • They claimed one of the accused should not be classified as a public servant.
  • The ED argued that Section 71 of the PMLA gives it precedence over other laws, including the CrPC.
• The Supreme Court rejected the ED's first argument, affirming that the accused are indeed civil servants and their alleged actions relate directly to their official responsibilities.
• Furthermore, the court noted that for Section 197(1) to apply, both conditions regarding the nature of the public servant and the nature of the alleged offense were satisfied.

It was clarified that Section 65 of the PMLA also incorporates the provisions of the CrPC for PMLA proceedings, as long as they do not conflict with PMLA stipulations.

Additional Information

• The PMLA establishes strict criteria for granting bail to accused individuals.
  • Section 45 of the PMLA prevents courts from granting bail unless the accused can demonstrate that no strong case exists against them and that they will not engage in further offenses.
• One of the main criticisms of the PMLA is its creation of an alternate criminal justice framework.
  • The ED operates outside the CrPC's jurisdiction, meaning it does not adhere to the same rules regarding searches, seizures, arrests, and property attachments as the police do.

GS2/International Relations

Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership

Source: Indian Express

Why in news?

In a significant shift from the government's previously stated stance, a leading official from the Niti Aayog has expressed that India should consider joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which is predominantly backed by China.

About

• Definition: The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership is a proposed trade agreement involving the member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) along with its Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners.
• Aim: The agreement seeks to encompass various aspects of trade including goods, services, and intellectual property rights.

Member Countries:

• The RCEP consists of 10 ASEAN member countries:
  • Brunei
  • Cambodia
  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia
  • Myanmar
  • Singapore
  • Thailand
  • The Philippines
  • Laos
  • Vietnam
• Additionally, it includes six FTA partners:
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
• Negotiation Timeline: RCEP negotiations began in November 2012 and the agreement officially came into effect on January 1, 2022.

Objective:

• The primary goal of RCEP is to establish an integrated market among 16 nations, facilitating easier access to products and services across the region.
• Focus Areas for Negotiations:
  • Trade in goods and services
  • Investment opportunities
  • Intellectual property rights protection
  • Dispute resolution mechanisms
  • E-commerce regulations
  • Support for small and medium enterprises
  • Broader economic cooperation among member states

GS2/International Relations

India makes formal bid to host 2036 Olympics

Source:Indian Express

Why in news?

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has officially expressed India's desire to host the 2036 Olympics and Paralympics by submitting a 'Letter of Intent' to the International Olympic Committee (IOC). This announcement comes as several strong contenders, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey, are also vying for the opportunity. The IOC will not make a final decision until after its elections next year, with the selection process managed by the IOC's Future Host Commission.

Process of selection of host country

About the IOC

• The IOC is responsible for the organization of the modern Olympic Games, including Summer, Winter, and Youth events.
• Founded in 1894 by Pierre de Coubertin in France, the IOC aims to revive the spirit of the ancient Greek Olympics and is headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Roles & Responsibilities of the IOC

• The IOC oversees the National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and manages the Olympic Games.
• The organization plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and success of the Olympic Movement.

Background of Host Election

• The host election process is a collaborative effort between the IOC and the prospective host country, including its NOC, to assess all aspects of the proposed Games.
• Two Future Host Commissions oversee the selection, one for Summer Games and another for Winter Games, ensuring alignment with the Olympic Movement's goals.

Informal Dialogue

• The IOC begins the selection process with informal discussions with interested host nations, initiated by the submission of a 'Letter of Intent.'

Targeted Dialogue

• If the IOC finds the candidate's planning satisfactory, it enters a targeted dialogue phase, inviting the preferred host to refine and present their proposal.

No Fixed Timeframe

• There is no specific timeline for the election of the hosts, allowing flexibility in the selection process.

Criteria Considered by the IOC

• The IOC evaluates various factors, including funding strategies, infrastructure capabilities, accommodation capacity, and public support.
• Consideration is also given to the socio-economic and geopolitical contexts of the candidate city.

About the News

• The Indian Olympic Association has formally submitted its interest in hosting the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games, indicating a significant step towards realizing this ambition.
• With the 2028 Summer Olympics set to take place in Los Angeles and the 2032 Games in Brisbane, Australia's bid, India's proposal aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for the Games to come to India.

Ahmedabad as Potential Host City

• India's last major international multi-sport event was the 2010 Commonwealth Games held in New Delhi.
• Ahmedabad has emerged as a strong candidate for hosting the 2036 Games, should India's bid succeed.
• IOA President PT Usha and other sports officials have actively promoted this bid during the 2024 Paris Olympics, emphasizing India's preparedness to host the event.

India's Push for Inclusion of Regional Sports

• India is advocating for the inclusion of yoga, a key aspect of its cultural heritage, in the Olympic sports program.
• The Sports Ministry's Mission Olympics Cell has identified six sports, including yoga, Twenty20 cricket, kabaddi, chess, squash, and kho kho, for potential inclusion.
• As per IOC regulations, host nations can propose regionally popular sports for consideration in that edition of the Games.

GS3/Science and Technology

TITANIUM

Source: New ATLAS

Why in news?

Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL), a central public sector undertaking, has entered into an agreement with Ust-Kamenogorsk Titanium and Magnesium Plant JSC (UKTMP JSC) from Kazakhstan to form a joint venture. This venture aims to produce titanium slag in India by utilizing ilmenite sourced from Odisha. The initiative is expected to enhance the titanium value chain in India by converting low-grade ilmenite into high-grade titanium feedstock, simultaneously creating job opportunities.

India holds around 11% of the global titanium-iron ore reserves, primarily located in the beach sands along the coastal regions of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha.

Titanium, represented by the symbol Ti and atomic number 22, is a metallic element known for its strength, low density, and exceptional resistance to corrosion.

• Strength: Titanium is comparable in strength to steel but is approximately 45% lighter, making it ideal for applications where a high strength-to-weight ratio is essential.
• Corrosion Resistance: It exhibits remarkable resistance to corrosion, particularly against seawater, acids, and chlorine, due to a protective oxide layer that forms naturally on its surface.
• Melting Point: Titanium has a high melting point of about 1,668°C (3,034°F), rendering it suitable for high-temperature applications.

Chemical Properties:

• Oxidation: Titanium readily forms titanium dioxide (TiO₂), a stable oxide that contributes to its corrosion resistance.
• Alloying: It is frequently alloyed with metals such as aluminum, iron, vanadium, and molybdenum to improve its mechanical properties.
• Biocompatibility: Titanium is biocompatible and non-toxic, making it an ideal choice for medical applications, including implants, prosthetics, and surgical instruments.

Major Uses of Titanium

• Aerospace Industry: Due to its strength, lightweight nature, and heat resistance, titanium is extensively used in aerospace components such as jet engines, aircraft frames, and missile structures. The use of titanium alloys helps reduce weight and enhance fuel efficiency in aircraft.
• Medical and Dental Applications: Owing to its biocompatibility, titanium is commonly employed in orthopedic implants, dental implants, and bone plates. It is also used in surgical instruments and tools, as it does not adversely react with body tissues.
• Automobile and Sports Equipment: High-performance automobile manufacturers utilize titanium in engines and exhaust systems due to its strength and thermal resistance. Additionally, titanium is favored in sports equipment, including golf clubs, bicycles, and tennis rackets, for its lightweight and durability.
• Pigments and Cosmetics: Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is widely utilized as a white pigment in paints, coatings, plastics, and cosmetics due to its opacity and brightness. It is also a key ingredient in sunscreens for its ability to block UV rays.

Titanium Extraction and Production

• Ores: The primary sources of titanium are ilmenite (FeTiO₃) and rutile (TiO₂). Major producers include Australia, South Africa, Canada, and India.
• Extraction: The Kroll process is the standard method for extracting titanium from its ores.
• Recycling: Titanium can be efficiently recycled, which is advantageous for industries such as aerospace where the cost of materials is significant.