UPSC Daily Current Affairs- 9th December 2023 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS-I

Adopt a Heritage 2.0 Program

Subject: History

Why in News?

Recently, the deadline for Submission of Applications for “Adopt a Heritage 2.0” Program has been decided as December 31, 2023.

About the Adopt a Heritage 2.0 Program:

• It is a revamped version of the earlier scheme launched in 2017 and clearly defines the amenities sought for different monuments as per the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act (or AMASR Act), 1958.
• The programme seeks collaboration with the private/public sector companies / trusts / societies / NGOs etc. through their CSR funding who intend to provide, develop, and maintain ‘amenities’ at centrally protected monuments and sites.

What is Adopt a Heritage Scheme?

• It is an initiative of the Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and the Archaeological Survey of India.
• It was launched in September 2017 on the World Tourism Day.
• Under it, the government invites entities, including public sector companies, private sector firms, as well as individuals, to develop selected monuments and heritage and tourist sites across India.
• The project aims to encourage these entities to become ‘Monument Mitras’ and take up the responsibility of developing and upgrading the basic and advanced tourist amenities at these sites.
• The corporate sector is expected to use corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds for the upkeep of the site.
• The Monument Mitras, in turn, will get limited visibility on the site premises and on the Incredible India website.

Source: PIB

Koya Tribe

Subject: Social Issues

Why in News?

In a move to conserve the Indian Bison in their forests, the indigenous Koya tribes inhabiting the Papikonda hill range in Andhra Pradesh have made an exemplary transition by shedding the use of bison horns to make their traditional flute called Permakore.

About the Koya Tribe:

• Koya are one of the few multi-racial and multi-lingual tribal communities in India.
• They live in the forests, plains, and valleys on both sides of the Godavari River, which lies in Andhra Pradesh.
• Many also live in the states of Madhya Pradesh and Orissa.
• They believe their main deity still resides in a cave in the Bastar region.
• Language:
  • Most Koya speak either Gondi or Telugu, in addition to Koyi.
  • Koyi is closely related to Gondi and has been strongly influenced by Telugu.
• Occupation: Traditionally they are pastoralists and shifting cultivators but now-a-days, they have taken to settled cultivation supplemented by animal husbandry and seasonal forest collections.
• They erect menhirs in memory of the dead.
• Culture:
  • The Koyas adopted Bison horns to discover their two cultural forms: the Kommu Koya dance, during which two Bison horns are adorned on the head as part of the attire, and the Permakore flute, which is made of a single horn.
  • They have retained their rich and varied heritage of colourful dance and music which form an integral part of their festivals and rituals.
  • Many Koya deities are female, the most important being the "mother earth."

Source: The Hindu

GS-II

PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme

Subject: Polity and Governance

Why in News?

Recently, the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) on behalf of River Cities Alliance (RCA), has signed a Memorandum of Common Purpose (MoCP) with the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative (MRCTI), representing 124 cities/towns situated along the banks of the Mississippi River, USA

About PM Formalisation of Micro food processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme:

• It is a centrally sponsored scheme launched in 2020.
• Duration: The scheme is operational for a period of five years from 2020-21 to 2024-25 with an outlay of Rs. 10,000 Crore for supporting 2 lakh micro food processing enterprises.
• Funding:
  • 90:10 ratios with North Eastern and Himalayan States.
  • 60:40 ratios with UTs with legislature, and 100% by Centre for other UTs.
  • 60:40 ratios between Central and State Governments for other states.
• Objectives: The objectives of scheme are to build capability of microenterprises to enable:
  • Increased access to credit by existing micro food processing entrepreneurs, FPOs, Self Help Groups and Cooperatives;
  • Integration with organised supply chain by strengthening branding & marketing;
  • Support for transition of existing 2,00,000 enterprises into formal framework;
  • Increased access to common services like common processing facility, laboratories, storage, packaging, marketing and incubation services;
  • Strengthening of institutions, research and training in the food processing sector;
  • Increased access for the enterprises, to professional and technical support.
• Under this scheme micro enterprises will get credit linked subsidy at 35% of the eligible project cost with a ceiling of Rs.10 lakh.
• The beneficiary contribution will be minimum of 10% and the balance from the loan.
• Support to FPOs/SHGs/Cooperatives:
  • Seed capital will be given to SHGs (at Rs. 4 lakhs per SHG) for loans to members for working capital and small tools.
  • Grant for backward/ forward linkages, common infrastructure, packaging, marketing & branding.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Food Processing Industries.

Source: PIB

Expulsion of MP from Lok Sabha

Subject: Polity and Governance

Why in News?

A Member of Parliament from West Bengal was expelled from the Lok Sabha over allegations of a cash-for-query scandal.

• Her expulsion highlights the importance of maintaining strict ethical standards and parliamentary etiquette in legislative proceedings.

Parliamentary Etiquette and Rules

• Expected Conduct of MPs: MPs must adhere to rules of parliamentary etiquette, such as not interrupting speeches, maintaining silence, and avoiding obstruction during debates.
• Updated Rules for Modern Protests: In 1989, rules were updated to include prohibitions against shouting slogans, displaying placards, tearing documents, and using electronic devices for protest in the House.
• Rajya Sabha’s Similar Rules: The Rajya Sabha, like the Lok Sabha, has similar rules to ensure smooth conduct of proceedings.

Power of Suspension in Parliament

• Presiding Officer’s Authority: The presiding officer of each House can direct an MP to withdraw from the chamber for disorderly conduct, resulting in absence for the day.
• Naming and Suspension Process: MPs obstructing House business can be “named” by the presiding officer, leading to a possible suspension motion by the Parliamentary Affairs Minister.
• Duration of Suspension: Suspensions can last until the end of the session.

Legal Recourse: Approaching the Supreme Court

• Option for Judicial Review: The expelled MP has the option to challenge the expulsion in the Supreme Court, as explained by former Lok Sabha Secretary General P D T Achary.
• Constitutional Provisions: Article 122 of the Constitution provides immunity to parliamentary proceedings from judicial scrutiny based on procedural irregularity.
• Scope for Judicial Review: Despite this immunity, the Supreme Court in the 2007 Raja Ram Pal case clarified that judicial review is possible in cases of substantive or gross illegality.

The Raja Ram Pal Case (2007)

• Case Background: Raja Ram Pal, a BSP leader, was among 12 MPs expelled in the 2005 cash-for-query scam.
• Supreme Court’s Stance: The Court upheld the expulsion but noted that proceedings tainted by substantial illegality are open to judicial scrutiny.
• Judicial Review of Parliamentary Actions: The Court affirmed its role in scrutinizing legislative actions that infringe on fundamental rights.

Article 105 of the Constitution

• Powers and Privileges of Parliament: Article 105 deals with the powers, privileges, and immunities of Parliament and its Members.
• Judicial Scrutiny of Privilege Enforcement: The Court recognized that the enforcement of privilege by the legislature can be subject to judicial review, within certain constitutional limits.

Grounds for Challenging Expulsion

• Examining Privilege and Procedure: The court can scrutinize whether the privilege cited for expulsion existed and if proper procedures were followed.
• Functioning of Committees: The roles of the Privileges Committee and Ethics Committee are distinct, focusing on investigating misconduct and ensuring dignity in the House.
• Investigative Procedures: Proper investigative procedures, including the right to depose and cross-examine, are essential for fairness and truth-finding.

Determining Offense and Punishment

• Article 20 of the Constitution: This article stipulates that punishment requires an existing law defining the act as an offense.
• Case-Specific Issues: In the case of the expelled MP, issues like sharing Parliament login-passwords and accepting money for questions are examined for rule violations.
• Breach of Privilege and Inquiry: Accepting money for asking questions in Parliament is a breach of privilege warranting inquiry by the Privileges Committee.

Conclusion

• Ongoing Debate and Implications: The case continues to spark debate on the limits of parliamentary privilege, the role of the judiciary, and the ethical standards expected of elected representatives.
• Balancing Authority and Rights: The expulsion case underscores the delicate balance between parliamentary authority and the rights of its members.
• Importance of Judicial Oversight: The potential for judicial review emphasizes the importance of legal oversight in maintaining democratic principles and fairness in legislative processes.

Source: The Hindu

Why Parliament passed the Advocates Amendment Bill?

Subject: Polity and Governance

Why in News?

The Odisha Government invoked its Essential Services (Maintenance) Act (ESMA) prohibiting strikes by paramedical staff, including nurses, pharmacists and technicians to ensure that medical services are not disrupted.

About Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA)

• Description: The Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) is a significant piece of legislation enacted by the Parliament in 1968.
• Constitutional Placement: It falls under list no. 33 in the 7th schedule under the concurrent list of the Indian Constitution.
• Purpose: ESMA is primarily used by states to manage strikes by employees, especially in essential services.
• Essential Services: The Act empowers the government to designate any economic activity or service as ‘essential’, where disruption would impact the normal life of people.

• Police Authority: The Act grants police the authority to arrest protestors without a warrant if they violate the provisions of ESMA.
• State-Specific Provisions: Each Indian state has its unique version and provisions of the ESMA.

• Worker’s Basic Right: Striking is a fundamental means for workers to legitimately promote and defend their economic and social interests.
• Legal Status: While the right to protest is a fundamental right under Article 19 of the Indian Constitution, the right to strike is a legal right with certain restrictions.
• Industrial Dispute Act 1947: This act outlines the legal framework and restrictions for strikes, especially in public sectors and essential services.
• Restrictions in Specific Sectors: Strikes are particularly restricted for public sector employees, banking, oil, metropolitan transport, and education sectors under state jurisdiction.

• ILO’s Stance: The ILO’s Committee on Freedom of Association has established principles regarding the right to strike.
• Essential Services Definition: Essential services are those whose interruption could endanger the life, safety, or health of part or all of the population.
• Examples of Essential Services: The committee identifies sectors like hospitals, electricity, water supply, telephone services, and air traffic control as essential services.
• Restriction on Strikes: Employees in these essential services are generally not permitted to strike.

• Irresponsible Use: The Act has been criticized for its sometimes irresponsible and unwise implementation.
• Suppression of Democratic Rights: ESMA is seen as monopolizing power and suppressing the democratic rights of stakeholders, particularly the right to protest or strike.
• Government’s Overpowering Role: Critics argue that ESMA dangerously skews the balance in industrial relations towards the government in the public sector.

• Debate on ESMA’s Role: The Essential Services Maintenance Act remains a contentious topic, balancing the need for uninterrupted essential services with the rights of workers to strike.
• Need for Responsible Implementation: Responsible and democratic application of ESMA is crucial to maintain this balance.
• Ongoing Discussions: The Act continues to spark debate about the extent of government power and the protection of workers’ rights in essential sectors.

Source: The Hindu

GS-III

Kavach’ System

Subject: Science and Technology

Why in News?

The ambitious automatic train protection (ATP) system, Kavach, has so far been deployed on 1465 route km and 139 locomotives (including Electric Multiple Unit rakes) on South Central Railway sections, as per a government release.

About ‘Kavach’ System:

• It is an indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system.
• It was developed by the Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) under the Indian Railway (IR) in collaboration with the Indian industry.
• It is a set of electronic devices and Radio Frequency Identification devices installed in locomotives, in the signalling system, as well the tracks, that talk to each other using ultra-high radio frequencies to control the brakes of trains and also alert drivers, all based on the logic programmed into them.
• Since 2016, the railways have been carrying out field tests for Kavach on passenger trains.
• Applications:
  • It is meant to provide protection by preventing trains from passing the signal at Red (which marks danger) and avoiding collisions.
  • The system can alert the loco pilot, take control of the brakes, and bring the train to a halt automatically when it notices another train on the same line within a prescribed distance.
  • The device also continuously relays the signals ahead to the locomotive, making it useful for loco pilots in low visibility.
  • It also controls the speed of the train through an automatic application of brakes in case the loco pilot fails to do so.
  • It helps the loco pilot in run the train during inclement weather conditions, such as dense fog.
  • An added feature is the centralised live monitoring of train movements through the Network Monitor System.

Source: Business Standard

Mauritian Dodo

Subject: Environment and Ecology

Why in News?

Mauritian authorities are now working to resurrect the human-caused extinct bird ‘Dodo’.

• Genetic Blueprint: The first step in de-extinction is obtaining a complete and accurate genome of the species.
• Genome Sequencing: Paleo-geneticists have successfully sequenced the dodo’s genome using DNA from a museum specimen.
• Comparative Genomics: The dodo’s genome is being compared with that of its closest extinct and extant relatives to identify unique dodo traits.

Process of Resurrecting

• Editing Genetic Material: The project involves editing the primordial germ cells (PGCs) of the Nicobar pigeon, the dodo’s closest living relative, to express dodo traits.
• Interspecies Surrogacy: These edited PGCs will be inserted into chicken embryos, with chickens acting as interspecies surrogates to potentially birth a dodo offspring.
• Physical Resemblance: The aim is to create a bird physically indistinguishable from historical accounts of the dodo.

• Scientific Hurdles: Experts emphasize the complexity of recreating a species and the time required for selective breeding to achieve dodo-like characteristics.
• Habitat Restoration: Mauritius’ transformed landscape poses challenges for reintroducing the dodo, necessitating the control or removal of invasive species.
• Alternative Habitats: The project considers reintroducing dodos to more pristine, uninhabited islands like Round Island and Aigrettes.

• Ecosystem Restoration: Reintroducing the dodo could help restore mutualistic relationships in Mauritius’ ecosystem, particularly in seed dispersal.
• Conservation Technology: The techniques developed could aid in conserving and restoring other endangered avian species.
• Symbolic Value: The project is driven by a desire to create ‘conservation optimism’, using the dodo as a symbol of hope in the face of human-caused extinctions.

Source: The Hindu