UPSC Daily Current Affairs- 11th January 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS-I

Republic Day Tableaux Selection Process and Recent Controversies

Subject: Art and Culture

Why in News?

The Defence Ministry’s proposal for a rollover plan for States and UTs to showcase their tableaux at the Republic Day parade comes amid ongoing controversies and complaints from various states.

• The plan aims to ensure that every State and UT gets an opportunity to participate within a three-year cycle, addressing the issue of limited slots (approximately 15) available each year.

Selection Process for Republic Day Tableaux

• Participants: State Governments/UT Administrations/Central Ministries/Departments are eligible to send tableaux.
• Application Process: Interested parties submit a concept note and design blueprints to the Ministry of Defence (MoD) by a specified deadline.
• Expert Committee Evaluation: The MoD appoints a committee of experts in art, culture, and related fields to evaluate the proposals in two stages:
• 
  
  1. Stage 1: Initial assessment of proposals and design sketches, with possible rejections or suggestions for modifications.
  2. Stage 2: Evaluation of three-dimensional models, leading to final selection or further modifications.

Criteria for Selection

• Factors Considered: Visual appeal, thematic relevance, detailing, accompanying music, use of local artists, and adherence to the year’s overarching theme.
• 2024 Theme: “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) and “Bharat: Loktantra ki Matrika” (India: the Mother of Democracy).
• Guidelines: The MoD specifies guidelines, including the use of young designers, electronic displays, robotics, 3D printing, augmented/virtual reality, and eco-friendly materials. Conformity to these guidelines is encouraged.

Controversies and Rejections

• Opposition-Ruled States’ Concerns: States like Karnataka, Punjab, and West Bengal have expressed dissatisfaction over their tableaux being rejected.
• Centre’s Stance: The Centre has maintained its decision without providing specific reasons for rejection.
• Possible Reasons for Rejection: Misalignment with the broader theme, as suggested by MoD sources regarding Punjab and West Bengal’s proposals.
• Political Allegations: A politician claimed that the Delhi government’s exclusion lacked justification, intending to showcase the state’s governance model.

Conclusion

• Navigating Challenges: The new rollover plan and selection process aim to balance equitable state representation with adherence to thematic and aesthetic guidelines.
• Addressing Discontent: While the plan seeks to mitigate annual complaints, it also raises questions about transparency and political considerations in the selection process.
• Future Prospects: Ensuring a transparent, inclusive, and theme-compliant selection process is crucial for maintaining the integrity and celebratory spirit of the Republic Day parade.

Source: The Hindu

Rock glaciers

Subject: Geography

Why in News?

A new study revealed that over 100 active permafrost structures identified in the Jhelum basin, can cause catastrophic disasters in future.

About Rock glaciers:

• A rock glacier is a mass of rock, ice, snow, mud, and water that moves slowly down a mountain under the influence of gravity. 
• Unlike an ice glacier, rock glaciers usually have very little ice visible at the surface. 
• The rock glacier might consist of a mass of ice covered by rock debris, or it might consist of a mass of rock with interstitial ice.
• Formation:
  • Rock glaciers typically form in mountainous regions where there is a combination of permafrost, rock debris, and ice.
  • One common scenario involves a pre-existing glacier that accumulates debris and rocks as it moves.
  • Over time, if the glacier recedes or thaws, the debris-covered ice can transform into a rock glacier.
  • These are classified as ‘active’ or ‘relict’ to indicate the status of permafrost within them, identified by the appearance of the rock surfaces. 
• Impacts
  • It increases the risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs).
  • It may also make landslides more frequent with the land on the melting ice becoming loose.

Source: DTE

Kateel Yakshagana mela

Subject: History, Art and Culture

Why in News?

A century-old Yakshagana mela in Dakshina Kannada will resume its all-night performances following approval from the Karnataka High Court.

About Kateel Yakshagana mela:

• It is a famous Yakshagana troupe started in the mid-19th century.
• The Yakshagana troupe, Kateel Sri Durgaparameshwari Yakshagaana Dashavatara Mandali, popularly known as Kateel Mela is an important ‘Harake Seva’ (hosting the Yakshagana show for God fulfilling a wish) troupe.
• It performs on request by devotees who have taken a vow (Harake) to arrange a show of Yakshagana for fulfilment of a desire or as a service.

Key facts about Yakshagana

• It is a traditional folk-dance form popular in Coastal Karnataka.
• It is a rare combination of dance, music, song, scholarly dialogues and colourful costumes.
• Traditionally, men portray all roles, including the female ones, though women are now part of Yakshagana troupes.
• A typical troupe consists of 15 to 20 actors and a Bhagawatha,who is the master of ceremonies and the main storyteller.
• Elements of Yakshagana
  • The Act: Each performance typically focuses on a small sub-story (known as ‘Prasanga’) from ancient Hindu epics of Ramayana or Mahabharata.
  • The show consists of both stage performances by talented artists and commentary (performed by the lead singer or Bhagawatha) accompanied by traditional music. 
  • The Music: Musical instruments used in Yakshagana include Chande (drums), Harmonium, Maddale, Taala(mini metal clappers) and flute among others. 
  • The Dress: Costumes used in Yakshagana are very unique and elaborate. Large size headgear, coloured faces, elaborate costumes all over the body and musical beads on the legs (Gejje).

Source: The Hindu

GS-II

Political Split and Maharashtra Assembly Speaker’s Ruling

Subject: Indian Polity 

Why in News?

Maharashtra Assembly Speaker ruled that the ruling faction of a political party was the legitimate and real, having the support of the majority of the party’s MLAs.

Anti-Defection Law in India

• Rise of Political Instability: The late 1970s saw rampant floor-crossing by legislators, epitomized by the phrase “Aaya Ram Gaya Ram” after MLA Gaya Lal’s frequent party changes in 1967.
• Legislative Efforts: Various bills, including the 32nd and 48th Constitution Amendment Bills, were introduced to address defections but lapsed or were not passed.
• Enactment of the Law: The 52nd Amendment in 1985, under Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, introduced the Tenth Schedule to the Constitution, embedding the anti-defection law.

Features of the Anti-Defection Law

[A] Disqualification Criteria:

• Members of Political Parties: Disqualification occurs if a member voluntarily gives up their party membership or defies the party’s directive without prior permission, which is not condoned within 15 days.
• Independent Members: Disqualification occurs if they join a political party after election.
• Nominated Members: Disqualification occurs if they join a political party after six months from taking their seat in the House.

[B] Exceptions:

• Merger: A member is not disqualified if their original party merges with another party, and at least two-thirds of its members agree to the merger.
• Presiding Officers: Members who become presiding officers can relinquish party membership and rejoin it after their term without facing disqualification.

[C] Decision Making:

• Deciding Authority: The presiding officer of the respective House is the authority to decide on disqualification matters, subject to judicial review as established in the Kihoto Hollohan case (1991).
• Rule-making Power: The presiding officer can formulate rules for implementing the Tenth Schedule, subject to the approval of the House.
• Procedure for Disqualification: The presiding officer acts upon a defection case upon receiving a complaint. The accused member must be given a chance to explain, and the matter can be referred to a committee for inquiry.
• Position of Speaker: Party whips do not apply to the Speaker. However, questions of disqualification under the law concerning the Speaker or Chairman are decided by a member elected by the House.

Judicial Interpretations and Election Commission’s Role

• Key Judgments: The Kihoto Hollohan case (1991) made the Speaker’s decision on defection subject to judicial review. Other significant cases include Ravi Naik vs Union of India and G. Viswanathan Vs. The Hon’ble Speaker, Tamil Nadu, which clarified aspects of voluntary membership relinquishment and expulsion.
• Election Commission’s Guidelines: The EC resolves intra-party disputes based on majority support in both organizational and legislative wings and may freeze party symbols in unresolved cases.

Challenges and Criticisms

• Discriminatory Features: The law is criticized for not differentiating between dissent and defection and for its approach to individual versus group defections.
• Absence of Time Limit: The lack of a mandated timeframe for decisions on defection cases has led to manipulation and delays.
• Impact on Democratic Functioning: Critics argue that the law restricts legislators’ freedom and weakens legislative checks on the executive.

Debate on Repeal or Amendment

• Arguments for Repeal: Some argue for the law’s repeal, citing its failure to prevent defections and its hindrance to representative democracy.
• Arguments against Repeal: Proponents believe it ensures government stability, recognizes party systems, and reduces corruption.
• Suggested Amendments: Recommendations for amendments include limiting the law’s scope, enhancing decision-making processes, and promoting intra-party democracy.

Expert Recommendations

• Dinesh Goswami Committee (1990) and Law Commission (170th Report, 1999): Suggested amendments include limiting disqualification and involving the President/Governor and EC in decision-making.
• Constitution Review Commission (2002): Proposed barring defectors from holding public office and invalidating their votes in toppling governments.
• Election Commission’s Proposal: Recommended that decisions under the Tenth Schedule should be made by the President/Governor based on the EC’s binding advice.

Way Forward

• Amending the Law: Amendments should address existing shortcomings, such as defining “voluntarily giving up membership” and removing distinctions in disqualification criteria.
• Enhancing Democratic Functioning: Reforms should focus on promoting intra-party democracy and regulating the use of whips.
• Voter Responsibility: The electorate’s role in holding defectors accountable through the ballot remains crucial.

Conclusion

• Navigating Political Stability and Democracy: The anti-defection law seeks to balance political stability with democratic representation and legislative accountability.
• Adapting to Contemporary Politics: As political dynamics evolve, so must the legal frameworks, ensuring their relevance and effectiveness.

Source: The Hindu

GS-III

Amaterasu Particles: Understanding High-Energy Cosmic Rays

Subject: Science and Technology

Why in News?

In a significant scientific breakthrough, Japanese scientists discovered an ultra-high-energy cosmic ray in May 2021, which he named ‘Amaterasu’ after the Japanese sun goddess.

Discovery of Amaterasu

• Event Identification: Dr. Toshihiro Fujii, an astronomer at Osaka Metropolitan University, discovered the cosmic ray named Amaterasu.
• Measurement: Amaterasu had an energy of 240 exa-electron-volt (EeV), an extremely high level.
• Comparison with Man-Made Accelerators: This energy is about 40 million times higher than that of protons accelerated by the Large Hadron Collider (LHC).

Mystery of Amaterasu’s Origin

• Unusual Origin: Amaterasu appears to have originated from an empty part of the universe.
• Dr. Fujii’s Theories: Possible explanations include an unidentified source, interaction with a strong magnetic field, or the need for new physics models.
• Previous Records: The “Oh My God” particle, detected in 1991 with an energy of 320 EeV, remains the most energetic cosmic ray recorded.

Nature and Impact of Cosmic Rays

• Composition: Cosmic rays are streams of energetic particles, including protons and alpha particles, originating from outer space and the sun.
• Interaction with Earth: Most cosmic rays lose their energy in Earth’s atmosphere, preventing harmful high-intensity rays from reaching the surface.
• Historical Significance: Studies of cosmic rays since the 1930s have led to the discovery of many subatomic particles, although their sources and high energy remain a mystery.

Types and Origins of Cosmic Rays

• Galactic Cosmic Rays (GCR): Originating from beyond our solar system, possibly from supernovae.
• Solar Cosmic Rays: Emitted by the sun, primarily in solar flares, consisting mainly of protons.
• Composition Analysis: Studies show a helium-to-hydrogen nuclei mass ratio in cosmic rays similar to the early universe’s composition.

Implications of High-Energy Cosmic Rays

• Ultra-high-energy cosmic Rays (UHECRs): These are extragalactic particles with energies exceeding 1 EeV.
• Limitations in Space Travel: UHECRs with more than 60 EeV energy face suppression due to interaction with cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation, limiting their travel distance to 50-100 megaparsecs.

Source: The Hindu

Mysteries of Plant Root Oscillation

Subject: Environment and Ecology

Why in News?

Plant roots, hidden beneath the soil, are more influential in shaping our environment than we often realize.

• Recent scientific discoveries have revealed that the growth of plant roots involves complex genetic processes.

Discoveries in Root Growth

• Gene Oscillation Discovery: Scientists found that certain genes in the root tip pulsate in their activity, a discovery made about 15 years ago.
• Ongoing Research: This pulsation is still not fully understood, but ongoing research is shedding more light on it.
• Importance for Agriculture: Understanding this process is crucial for selecting and designing plants that can thrive in various soils and climates, especially with the increasing occurrence of extreme weather.

Inside Plant Cells

• Chemical Reactions and Gene Activity: Plant cells are constantly undergoing a variety of chemical reactions and changes in gene activity.
• External Influences: These processes can be influenced by external factors like light, temperature, and nutrient availability.
• Genetic Programming: Many of these cellular activities are predetermined by the plant’s genetic makeup.
• Common Misconception: Plants are often seen as simple organisms primarily beneficial for producing oxygen.

Oscillations in Plant Cells

• Molecular Rhythms: Certain molecules in plant cells show rhythmic patterns, appearing and disappearing at regular intervals.
• Circadian Rhythms: An example of such a rhythm is the circadian clock, which is present in both plants and animals.
• Variety in Nature: Oscillations occur in various forms in nature, from quick cycles like heartbeats to slower ones like the menstrual cycle.
• Root Chemical Processes: Similar oscillatory processes are happening in plant roots, contributing to their growth.

Understanding Root Growth Oscillation

• Feedback Loops: The oscillation in root growth is thought to be caused by negative feedback loops, a common mechanism in natural processes.
• Microscopic Markers: Scientists have used fluorescent markers to observe how this oscillation influences the direction of root growth.

Mystery of Root Tip Oscillation

• Unknown Causes: The exact reason for this oscillation at the root tip is still unknown, and it’s not related to circadian rhythms.
• Auxin’s Role: The plant hormone auxin, which promotes growth, appears to play a crucial role in this process.
• Gene and Hormone Interaction: The interaction between auxin and certain genes, which involves complex feedback loops, might be key to understanding these oscillations.

Mathematical Models in Plant Growth

• Historical Use of Geometry: Geometry has been used to study the visible parts of plants.
• Dynamical Systems Theory (DST): This mathematical approach helps explain the oscillatory patterns in plant roots, particularly how auxin distribution is affected by cell division.

Challenges in Understanding Auxin Patterns

• Cell Division Synchronization Theory: There was a hypothesis that synchronized cell division could lead to regular auxin pulses.
• Irregular Auxin Patterns: However, observations show that auxin distribution is not as regular as expected, indicating a more complex process.

Source: Indian Express

Momentum investing

Subject: Economy

Why in News?

Many academic studies have shown that momentum investing can generate high returns that comfortably beat the benchmark indices.

About Momentum investing:

• It refers to a style of investing wherein investors purchase assets such as stocks or bonds that are consistently rising in price while selling assets whose prices are falling.
• Momentum investors buy assets with rising prices in the hope that the upward price momentum of these assets would continue, thus allowing them to sell these assets at higher prices in the future to make profits.
• It is based on the philosophy that there can be discernible trends in asset prices and that these trends tend to persist over time.
• The persistence of such trends gives investors an opportunity to recognise and participate in them early enough to make significant profits from their investments.
• Similarly, they sell assets that are falling in price expecting the fall in prices to continue for some time.
• Momentum investors generally do not conduct a deep analysis of the fundamental or intrinsic value of the assets in which they invest their money.
• They invest purely based on whether the price of an asset is showing a strong trend, either upward or downward, that they can ride on.
• The “buy high, sell higher” philosophy of momentum investing is in stark contrast to the traditional “buy low, sell high” advice given to investors.

Source: The Hindu