Weekly Current Affairs (8th to 14th December 2023) | Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT PDF Download

Jammu and Kashmir Administration’s Rules for Anand Marriage Act Registration

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has taken a significant step by framing detailed rules for the registration of marriages under the Anand Marriage Act. This Act provides statutory recognition to the marriage rituals of Sikhs, addressing their longstanding demand to separate their marriages from the Hindu Marriage Act. The newly formulated “Jammu and Kashmir Anand Marriage Registration Rules, 2023” outline the procedures for Anand marriages.

Registration Process and Timelines

• Under the new rules, tehsildars within their territorial jurisdiction will serve as registrars for Anand marriages. Sikh couples are allowed to apply for registration within three months of solemnizing their marriage. 
• However, if the formalities are completed after this deadline, a late fee will be applicable. The rules aim to streamline the registration process and provide a legal framework for Sikh marriages in the region.

A Longstanding Demand

• The Sikh community has expressed gratitude for the implementation of the Anand Marriage Act, emphasizing that it addresses their identity concerns. 
• The Vice President of the District Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee, Jammu, Balvinder, mentioned that this move fulfills a long-pending demand, and the community is thankful to the Lieutenant Governor for keeping his promise.

Historical Context of the Anand Marriage Act

• The historical roots of the Anand Marriage Act date back to 1909 when the British Imperial Legislative Council passed legislation recognizing the Sikh wedding ceremony, Anand Karaj. The Act aimed to acknowledge and respect the customs and practices of the Sikh community. 
• In 2012, the Parliament passed the Anand Marriage (Amendment) Bill, bringing Sikh traditional marriages under legal recognition. While the central government approved the amendments, individual states and Union territories were tasked with framing specific rules for the registration of Anand marriages.

Uttarakhand Climate Resilient Power System Development Project

The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have officially signed an agreement for a $200 million loan aimed at improving the quality, efficiency, and reliability of power supply in the state of Uttarakhand. The initiative involves upgrading the distribution system to minimize power outages, reduce technical losses, and seamlessly integrate and transmit renewable energy to load centers. The ADB funding will strengthen power system infrastructure, helping Uttarakhand achieve its goal of providing 24×7 power to residents.

Modernization

• The project will modernize Dehradun city’s power network infrastructure through the introduction of an advanced and climate-resilient underground cable system. 
• This comprises 537 km of subterranean cables, 354 ring main units, and 99 compact substations.

Improving Power Distribution Reliability

• In addition to modernization, the project will improve the power system by installing upstream substations and associated power lines. 
• This strategic move aims to meet growing electricity demand, reduce network congestion, and enhance power distribution reliability in both urban and suburban areas.

Empowering Women in Rural Hilly Districts

• The project extends its impact to rural hilly districts by empowering women self-help groups. It provides access to renewable energy sources and energy-efficient equipment, enhancing livelihoods. 
• ADB will facilitate training programs, focusing on energy conservation and business management skills. Moreover, awareness and educational activities in schools will promote employment opportunities in the energy sector.

Japan Fund Support

• The Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific, financed by the Government of Japan through ADB, will provide a $2 million grant. 
• This grant supports livelihood enhancement, training, and awareness-raising activities within the project.

Africa Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition, Statistics and Trends 2023

A new report by United Nations agencies reveals that nearly 282 million people in Africa, constituting about 20% of the population, experienced undernourishment in 2022. This staggering figure represents over 38% of the global population facing hunger, totaling 735 million people that year. The report, jointly released by FAO, AUC, ECA, and WFP, sheds light on the profound impact of COVID-19, contributing to a 57 million increase in undernourished individuals since the onset of the pandemic.

Regional Disparities in Undernourishment

• The Africa Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition, Statistics and Trends 2023 highlights regional disparities in undernourishment. 
• Eastern Africa tops the list with 134.6 million undernourished individuals, followed by Western Africa with 62.8 million, Central Africa with 57 million, Northern Africa with 19.5 million, and Southern Africa with 7.6 million. The report underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions across regions.

Food Insecurity and Malnutrition

• The report reveals that around 868 million people in Africa were moderately or severely food-insecure, with 342 million severely food-insecure individuals. 
• Central Africa witnessed the highest increase in undernourishment prevalence, followed by Western Africa, Southern Africa, Eastern Africa, and Northern Africa. Notably, more women were affected by moderate or severe food insecurity in 2022 than men.

Micronutrient Deficiencies and Other Challenges

• Besides hunger, the report highlights widespread micronutrient deficiencies in Africa. The prevalence of stunting among children under five was 30% in 2022. 
• Southern Africa recorded higher-than-global estimates of overweight children, and South Africa and Botswana had particularly high prevalence rates. The report also addresses the high prevalence of anaemia among adult women in Africa.

Affordability of Nutritious Diets

• The report introduces estimates on the cost and affordability of a nutritious diet, revealing that 77.5% of Africa’s population, approximately one billion individuals, could not afford a healthy diet in 2021. This contrasts sharply with the global rate of 42%. 
• The average cost of a healthy diet in Africa increased by 5.6% from 2020-2021, emphasizing the economic challenges faced by a significant portion of the population.

Multi Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) in Nagpur

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has entered into a significant agreement with M/s. DC Multi Modal Park (Nagpur) Limited, a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) of M/S. DeltaBulk Shipping India Pvt. Ltd., for the development of a Multi Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) in Nagpur. This project, estimated at Rs.673 crore, will be developed over 150 acres under the Public Private Partnership model, marking a pivotal milestone in the country’s development and aligning with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.

Significance

• The MMLP, to be developed in three phases, is poised to become the first in Maharashtra under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. Phase-I, with an investment of Rs. 137 crore, is anticipated to be completed within two years.
•  This initiative aligns with the country’s vision for infrastructural growth and will boost industrial zones in the catchment region, including Nagpur, Wardha, Chandrapur, and Gondiya.

Strategic Location

• The MMLP will be situated in Sindi, near the railway station, in Wadha district of Maharashtra. The strategic location boasts proximity to the Nagpur–Mumbai Maha-Samruddhi Mahamarg and the Howrah–Nagpur–Mumbai rail line. 
• Additionally, it has access from the four-lane Nagpur–Aurangabad NH 361. The site is strategically positioned, being 48 km from Nagpur International Airport and 56 km from Nagpur railway station.

Collaboration

• The project involves collaboration between NHAI and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) through a government SPV named Nagpur MMLP Pvt. Ltd. 
• NHLML, a 100% owned company of NHAI, and JNPA have formed this SPV, with JNPA providing the land for MMLP development and NHLML supplying external rail, road connectivity, as well as water and power supply.

Facilities Provided

• The MMLP will offer diverse facilities, including warehouses, cold storages, intermodal transfers, container terminals, and bulk/break-bulk cargo terminals. Value-added services like sorting/grading, aggregation/desegregation areas, bonded warehouses, and customs facilities will also be provided. 
• project is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities and drive economic development in the region.

Impact on Indian Logistics Sector

• The development of MMLP aligns with the Government of India’s initiative to enhance the country’s freight logistics sector. 
• By facilitating efficient inter-modal freight movement, lowering overall freight costs, improving warehousing, and enhancing tracking and traceability, this project aims to significantly boost the efficiency of the Indian logistics sector.

Mystery of Biocrusts on the Great Wall of China

For centuries, the Great Wall has stood as a testament to China’s dynastic prowess, embodying both ingenuity and authority. However, a recent collaborative study by researchers from China, the US, and Spain delves into the debate surrounding the impact of biocrusts on this iconic structure.

The Biocrust

• Biocrusts, consisting of lichen, bacteria, fungi, moss, and small plants, inhabit mineral surfaces and have sparked controversy within the conservation community. 
• The study aims to unravel whether these living organisms contribute to the weathering of historical monuments or act as a protective shield, enhancing the longevity of these structures.

Extensive Survey of the Great Wall

• The research team conducted an exhaustive survey covering approximately 600 kilometers of the Great Wall, with a specific focus on segments in drier climates. 
• Contrary to the perception of a single wall, the Great Wall is a complex series of fortifications, towers, and battlements adapted to different environmental challenges, including arid regions like the Gobi Desert.

Adaptable Construction Materials

• Examining the construction materials, ranging from clay-rich soil to sand and pebble layers, highlights the adaptability of the Great Wall to diverse environmental conditions. 
• Older sections, especially those constructed with rammed earth, display signs of biocrusts, sparking exploration into their impact on the preservation or deterioration of the ancient structure.

Balancing Preservation and Aesthetics

• The study grapples with finding a balance between the protective benefits of biocrusts and the aesthetic considerations of the Great Wall. 
• While the presence of lichen and moss may alter the visual appeal, the researchers consider whether future generations may accept a “patina of green” as a trade-off for safeguarding one of the world’s most significant architectural treasures.

Climate Change Threats

• In the face of climate change threats, the study suggests that understanding the role of biocrusts on the Great Wall may pave the way for embracing protective vegetation as a means of preserving this colossal historical monument for generations to come.

Truth and Reconciliation Commission

Recently, the Supreme Court unanimously upheld the Centre’s decision to abrogate Article 370 in 2019. The five-judge bench delivered three concurring opinions, affirming that Jammu and Kashmir no longer holds special status in the Indian Union. Justice Sanjay Kaul, in his opinion, suggested the establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) to investigate alleged human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized that the TRC should be a platform for dialogue and not a criminal court.

Understanding Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC)

• A Truth and Reconciliation Commission, also known as a ‘truth commission,’ is an official mechanism aimed at acknowledging and revealing wrongdoings by a government or non-state actors. It addresses past conflicts and promotes resolution. 
• Priscilla B Hayner’s definition outlines that a TRC focuses on the past, investigates events over time, engages with the affected population, operates temporarily, and is authorized by the state.

Countries with Past Truth Commissions

• South Africa, Australia, and Canada had notable and impactful commissions. In India’s neighboring countries, Sri Lanka and Nepal have also established truth commissions.

Canadian Truth and Reconciliation Commission

• The Canadian TRC addressed the legacy of the Indian Residential Schools system, where indigenous children were removed from their families. The commission traveled for six years, hearing from over 6,500 witnesses. 
• The Government of Canada supported the TRC with about $72 million. The TRC created a historical record housed at the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.

South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission

• In post-apartheid South Africa, President Nelson Mandela’s government established a TRC in 1995. The TRC aimed to uncover the truth about human rights violations during apartheid, focusing on reconciliation rather than prosecution. 
• The commission’s report, released in volumes between 1998 and 2003, played a crucial role in healing the country.

“State of Finance for Nature” Report

A new United Nations report, “State of Finance for Nature,” reveals that countries invest nearly $7 trillion annually in subsidies and private investments with direct negative impacts on nature. This staggering figure accounts for 7% of the global gross domestic product, highlighting the urgent need for a shift in financial practices.

Launch and Presentation at COP28

• The report was presented by the UN Environment Portal (UNEP) at the 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. 
• Launched on 8th December, 2023, the report analyzes private finance flows affecting nature negatively, providing unprecedented insights into the scale of the issue.

Disparity: Nature-based Solutions (NbS) vs. Negative Impacts

• Private finance flows negatively impacting nature total $5 trillion, a stark contrast to the significantly lower private investments in nature-based solutions (NbS), estimated at $200 billion annually. The report emphasizes the urgent need to address this substantial disparity in funding.

Industries Contributing to Negative Impact

• The analysis identifies five industries as major contributors to negative financial flows: Construction, electric utilities, real estate, oil and gas, and food and tobacco. These industries collectively contribute about 16% of overall investment flows in the global economy.

Fossil Fuel Subsidies and Global Trends

• The report notes that global fossil fuel subsidies to consumers doubled between 2021 and 2022, reaching $1.16 trillion. This increase was fueled by subsidies related to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
• The International Energy Agency (IEA) also highlighted additional spending of $500 billion to lower energy costs in 2022.

Agriculture and Environmental Harmful Subsidies

• Environmentally harmful subsidies in agriculture account for over $345 billion. The report reveals that, while the agricultural sector receives substantial support, only 13% is allocated to public goods and services, essential for NbS-based infrastructure.

Positive Trends: Increase in NbS Financing

• Despite challenges, the report brings a glimmer of hope, indicating an 11% increase in total traceable finance flows to NbS in 2022, amounting to $20 billion. 
• This rise is attributed to a $17 billion increase in public funding for NbS in sustainable agriculture, fishing, and forestry.

Urgent Call for Action

• To align with global targets, the report recommends doubling annual finance flows towards NbS from $200 billion to $436 billion by 2025 and nearly tripling it to $542 billion by 2030. 
• It underscores that addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and land degradation requires a significant reduction in the $7 trillion finance flows directed toward nature-negative practices.

Gap Between Commitments and Actions

• The report highlights a misalignment between countries’ commitments and their actions, warning that the world may experience a 2.8°C warming by the end of the century if current trends persist. 
• It calls for immediate and substantial efforts to bridge the financing gap and redirect funds toward sustainable practices.

Parliamentary Panel’s Recommendation Concerning Puja at Protected Monuments

A parliamentary panel has proposed that the government explore the possibility of allowing puja and worship at Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protected monuments with religious significance. This recommendation comes as part of the report on ‘Issues relating to Untraceable Monuments and Protection of Monuments in India,’ presented in both Houses on Friday.

Current ASI Policy: Limited to Existing Traditions

• Currently, ASI permits worship and rituals only at monuments where such traditions were ongoing at the time the monument came under the ASI’s custody. 
• The proposed change could potentially open up a broader range of protected monuments, including dilapidated temples, dargahs, churches, and other religious sites.

Parliamentary Committee’s Recommendations

• The parliamentary committee, led by YSR Congress Rajya Sabha MP V Vijaisai Reddy, suggested that ASI explores the possibility of permitting puja, worship, and certain religious activities at Centrally Protected Monuments of religious significance. 
• However, this allowance would be subject to the condition that such activities do not harm the conservation and preservation of the monuments.

Response from Ministry of Culture

• The Ministry of Culture acknowledged the recommendation, stating it will explore its feasibility. However, it emphasized that, as per the existing policy decision, the revival of worship is not allowed where it was not present at the time of protection by the ASI or has been abandoned for an extended period.

Past Incident at Martand Sun Temple

• In May last year, prayers were held at the ruins of the eighth-century Martand Sun Temple in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to concerns from the ASI. 
• The agency deemed it a violation of its rules, stating that prayers are allowed only at sites where they were “functioning places of worship” at the time the ASI assumed control.

Current Status of Protected Monuments

• Out of the 3,693 centrally protected monuments and archaeological sites managed by the ASI, about a fourth (820) have places of worship. The rest are considered non-living monuments, where new religious rituals are prohibited. 
• The proposed change would potentially impact the category of monuments where worship is currently restricted.

Panel Criticizes Ministry for Limited Action on Recommendations

• The parliamentary committee expressed dissatisfaction with the Ministry of Culture for providing action-taken notes on only 21 out of 35 recommendations from its report on “untraceable monuments.”
• The committee emphasized the importance of addressing critical issues and conducting surveys to identify monuments promptly.

ASI Rules on Prayers at Protected Sites

• ASI rules allow prayers at protected sites only if they were “functioning places of worship” at the time of ASI takeover. Notable examples include the Taj Mahal and several mosques, churches, and Buddhist monasteries. 
• The proposed changes could impact the existing limitations on worship at non-living monuments.

World’s First Global Cooling Pledge

Sixty-three countries, including the US, Canada, and Kenya, joined forces at COP28 to make history by signing the Global Cooling Pledge. This landmark commitment aims to slash cooling emissions by at least 68% by 2050. With cooling emissions currently accounting for 7% of global greenhouse gases, the pledge addresses the urgent need for action as these emissions are expected to triple by 2050.

Cooling Emissions and Global Warming

• Cooling emissions originate from refrigerants, commonly found in appliances like air conditioners and refrigerators, and the energy used for cooling. 
• The rise in global temperatures is set to intensify the demand for cooling, leading to a surge in cooling emissions. Let’s delve into the details.

The Role of Refrigerants

• Refrigerants, also known as coolants, facilitate the cooling process by rapidly changing their state. Historically, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were widely used until their detrimental impact on the ozone layer led to the 1987 Montreal Protocol. 
• Although CFCs were replaced by hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), these alternatives, while ozone-friendly, contribute significantly to global warming.

The Environmental Impact of HFCs and HCFCs

• HFCs and HCFCs, the successors to CFCs, may not harm the ozone layer, but they are potent greenhouse gases. For instance, HFC-134a, commonly used in domestic fridges, has a global warming potential 3,400 times that of CO2. 
• Improper disposal of appliances containing these refrigerants results in significant emissions, contributing to global warming.

Cooling Emissions from Appliances

• Leakage of HFCs and HCFCs occurs mainly when appliances are damaged or improperly disposed of. Ninety percent of refrigerant emissions happen at the end of an appliance’s life, exacerbating the environmental impact.

Major Contributor

• The electricity used to power cooling appliances is another substantial source of cooling emissions. Fossil fuels, responsible for over 75% of greenhouse gas emissions, play a significant role in electricity production worldwide, especially in developing countries.

A Vicious Cycle

• While cooling emissions currently constitute a relatively small portion of global greenhouse gases, escalating global temperatures are expected to change this. 
• As temperatures rise, the demand for cooling will surge, creating a destructive feedback loop that intensifies global warming.

Global Response and Solutions

• Countries recognize the urgency of addressing cooling emissions. The Kigali Amendment, signed in 2016, commits over 150 nations to an 80% reduction in HFC consumption by 2047. This reduction could prevent more than 0.4 degrees Celsius of global warming by 2100. 
• The use of climate-friendly chemicals and proper disposal of refrigerants are crucial steps. Additionally, focusing on alternative cooling methods, such as improved insulation and better ventilation, is essential for a sustainable future.

Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2024

India has secured the seventh position in climate performance during 2022, making significant progress over the previous year when it held the eighth spot. This positive trajectory places India effectively fourth, considering the absence of countries in the first three ranks within the ‘very high’ performance category. The rankings are part of the annual report, Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2024, published on the sidelines of COP28 in Dubai on December 8.

Key Findings from the Report

Top Performers

• Denmark retained the top spot with a remarkable score of 75.59%, showcasing consistent commitment to climate action.
• Estonia and the Philippines secured the second and third ranks, with scores of 72.07 and 70.70, respectively.
• India closely followed with a score of 70.25%, demonstrating significant improvement from the previous year’s score of 67.35.

Global Trends in Climate Performance

• Most developed countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, and Italy, showed a decline in climate performance compared to the previous year.
• Saudi Arabia ranked at the bottom (67th), while the host country, the United Arab Emirates, occupied the 65th position.

Urgent Need for Global Action

• The report emphasizes that CCPI countries must achieve an emissions peak by 2025 to align with the 1.5°C goal and aim to halve emissions by 2030 (vs 2020 levels).
• Despite the urgency, global greenhouse gases (GHG) increased in 2022, with atmospheric CO2 now 50% higher than pre-industrial levels.

Challenges and Opportunities for India

• India’s high population, contributing to lower per capita energy use, plays a significant role in its high position in climate performance.
• In GHG Emissions and Energy Use categories, India ranked 9th and 10th, respectively, benefiting from a low per capita benchmark.
• However, in Renewable Energy, India is ranked 37th, indicating a need for accelerated progress.

Concerns Over Coal Dependency

• The report highlights India’s reliance on coal for meeting growing energy needs, contributing to GHG emissions and severe air pollution, particularly in cities.

Global Perspectives on Climate Performance

• Of the 64 countries assessed, 37 countries showed a decline in performance compared to the previous year, highlighting the ongoing challenges in reducing emissions globally.

West Bengal Goods and Services Tax (Second Amendment) Bill, 2023

The West Bengal Assembly has approved a bill that imposes the highest Goods and Services Tax (GST) rate of 28% on the full face value of bets in online gaming, horse racing, and casinos. The move is aimed at boosting the state’s revenue, according to Minister of State for Finance Chandrima Bhattacharya.

Revenue Augmentation

• The West Bengal Goods and Services Tax (Second Amendment) Bill, 2023, once enacted, is expected to enhance the state’s revenue. 
• West Bengal stands among the states advocating for the highest taxation on online gaming and related activities.

Games of Chance

• Online gaming, casinos, and horse racing are categorized as games of chance rather than skill. In such cases, the “right to participate and the right to win cannot be separated.” 
• This perspective underlines the rationale behind taxing these activities at the highest GST rate.

State’s Advocacy for Highest Taxation Rates

• As a member of the GST Council, West Bengal has consistently favored imposing the highest GST rates on activities like online gaming. 
• The bill’s delayed introduction in the assembly was attributed to numerous queries raised by the governor.

Effective GST Rates from October 1

• The GST rates on online gaming, horse racing, and casinos came into effect from October 1 in various states. The move aligns with the state’s commitment to taxing these activities at the highest rates.

Pending IGST Dues

• Presently, West Bengal is awaiting Rs 467 crore from the Centre on account of Inter-State Goods and Services Tax (IGST). This pending amount is a crucial aspect of the state’s fiscal concerns.

‘Suchitwa Theeram’ Project

The Kozhikode district administration is taking a significant step towards maintaining the cleanliness of its coastal areas through the initiation of the ‘Suchitwa Theeram’ project. This endeavor falls under the broader ‘Malinya Muktha Navakeralam’ program, overseen by the Department of Local Administration.

• On December 9, a large-scale clean-up drive will be executed across 12 coastal local bodies within the district. District Collector Snehil Kumar Singh, Sub-collector V. Chelsasini, and Joint Director of Local Administration P.S. Shino will actively participate in the cleaning activities at Bhatt Road Beach in Kozhikode.

Targeted Coastal Areas

• Major clean-up activities will be concentrated in specific coastal locations, including Vakkadavu beach in Kadalundi grama panchayat, Kappad at Chemancheri, Kavalad at Chengottukavu, Koyilandy Harbour, Muthayam beach at Moodadi, Kallakam drive-in beach at Thikkodi, Sand Banks at Vadakara, Arakkal at Onchiyam, Poozhithala at Azhiyur, Gosai Kunnu Pallithazham at Chorode, Payyoli beach, and Kolavipalam in Payyoli grama panchayat.

Active Participation of Volunteers

• The success of the ‘Suchitwa Theeram’ project relies on the collective efforts of volunteers. Participants include those from the campuses of Kozhikode, National Service Scheme, members of Harithakarma Sena, and Kudumbasree. 
• Additionally, officials from the Department of Local Administration will actively contribute to the cleanliness drive.