UPSC Daily Current Affairs - 29th May 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS-I/Indian Society

Still no sign of the language of equity and inclusion

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

India often neglects the needs of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) citizens in societal and structural frameworks.

• Exclusion of DHH individuals is seen in various aspects of daily life, such as the absence of sign language interpreters during major public announcements.
• The Indian education system primarily uses oralism over sign language, leading to social isolation and barriers for DHH individuals.

Present Scenario

• Approximately 63 million people in India suffer from Significant Auditory Impairment, with an estimated prevalence of 6.3% in the population.
• There are 291 persons per one lakh population with severe to profound hearing loss.
• Despite the numbers, DHH individuals are often excluded from educational and employment opportunities.

Government Initiatives

• Efforts to employ the deaf are often ineffective, with a lack of Indian Sign Language (ISL) recognition despite demands.

The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Deafness

• Initiated in 2007 in 25 districts, the program aims to prevent avoidable hearing loss, provide early identification and treatment, and develop ear care services.
• Expanded to 228 districts, the program focuses on training, service provision, awareness generation, and monitoring and evaluation.

What Needs to be Done?

• Official Recognition of ISL: ISL should be recognized as an official language and integrated into educational systems.
• Inclusive Health Care: Health systems need to ensure accessible communication for DHH patients.
• Media and Public Communication: Incorporate ISL interpretation in media and government announcements.
• Employment Opportunities: Create more diverse job opportunities for DHH individuals.

Conclusion

To ensure inclusivity for DHH citizens, India must officially recognise ISL, integrate it into education and public services, improve healthcare accessibility, and expand employment opportunities and mental health support.

Main PYQ:

How have digital initiatives in India contributed to the functioning of the education system in the country? Elaborate your answer.

GS-III/Economics

Why have dal imports hit a seven-year high?

Source: The Indian Express

Why in News?

Total pulse production in India has decreased, affecting key pulses like Chana and Arhar/Tur.

India's Position in Pulse Production:

• India is the largest producer, consumer, and importer of pulses globally.
• Pulses account for a significant portion of India's total cultivated area and food grains.
• Per capita availability of pulses has declined over the years.

Significance of Pulse Production:

• Pulses play a crucial role in drought-prone areas, enhance soil fertility, and offer high nutritional value.
• They have low food wastage footprints due to longer storage life.

Cause of Inflation in Pulses:

• Factors such as El Niño-induced weather patterns and irregular rainfall have impacted domestic production.
• This has led to increased retail prices, higher import costs, and economic burdens on households.

Challenges Ahead:

• Future prices depend on monsoon patterns and import dependency due to insufficient domestic production.
• Government initiatives aim to mitigate high dal prices through import liberalization.

Government Initiatives:

• The government has taken steps like removing tariffs and restrictions to boost pulse supply and reduce prices.
• Measures include duty-free imports of key pulses till March 31, 2025.

GS-I/Geography

Tropical Cyclones

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

Days after Cyclone Remal made landfall on the night of May 26, it severely impacted coastal West Bengal in India, along with parts of Assam, Meghalaya and Mizoram in the northeast, and neighbouring Bangladesh. While state governments are still analysing the extent of destruction that the cyclone has left in its wake, in West Bengal, at least six people have been killed, attributed to electrocution.

• Tropical cyclones are weather systems that originate in tropical or subtropical oceans.
• They form between the Tropics of Capricorn and Cancer.
• These cyclones are characterized by large-scale wind circulation and intense storms.

Favorable Conditions for Formation

• A large expanse of warm water with temperatures exceeding 27°C is essential.
• The Coriolis force must be strong enough to initiate cyclonic rotation.
• Minimal variations in vertical wind speed allow storm clouds to ascend vertically.
• An existing weak low-pressure area or cyclonic circulation is necessary.
• A higher divergence is required above the system at sea level.

Origin and Development

• Tropical cyclones emerge over tropical oceans primarily from August to mid-November.
• The Coriolis effect leads to the whirling motion of convectional currents.

Stages of Development

• Formation and Initial Development Stage: Water vapor transport from warm oceans fuels cyclone formation.
• Convection and condensation above the ocean surface create massive cumulus clouds.
• Mature Stage: Intensification leads to powerful thunderstorms and horizontal air spreading.
• Creation of a warm 'Eye' at the cyclone's center characterized by concentric cumulus bands in the Indian Ocean.
• Modification and Decay: Weakening occurs when warm moist air supply diminishes, especially post-landfall or upon encountering cold waters.

GS-III/Economics

NABARD'S CLIMATE STRATEGY 2030

Source: Denmark.in

Why in News?

The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has introduced its Climate Strategy 2030 to meet India's demand for green financing.

• Current green finance inflows are insufficient to meet India's financial needs, with a required annual investment of approximately USD 170 billion to reach over USD 2.5 trillion by 2030.

NABARD's Climate Strategy 2030

• Accelerating Green Lending: Focuses on increasing green financing across various sectors.
• Market-making Role: Aims to create a conducive market environment for green finance.
• Internal Green Transformation: Involves implementing sustainable practices within NABARD's operations.
• Strategic Resource Mobilisation: Effectively mobilizing resources to support green initiatives.

This strategy aims to bridge the financial gap for sustainable initiatives by mobilizing resources efficiently.

Green Financing

• Refers to mobilizing financial resources to support investments with positive environmental impacts.
• Includes investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable infrastructure, and climate-smart agriculture.

Significance of Green Financing

• Transition to a Low-carbon Economy: Directs funds towards renewable energy and clean technologies to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
• Promoting Climate Adaptation and Resilience: Investments in green infrastructure aid communities in adapting to climate change.
• Unlocking New Economic Opportunities: Shifts towards a green economy stimulate innovation and job creation.

Issues/Challenges Related to Green Financing

• Higher Initial Investments: Green projects often require more initial investment compared to conventional projects.
• Longer Payback Periods: Green projects may not align with short-term investment horizons of investors.
• Absence of Globally Accepted Standards: Lack of standardized criteria leads to ambiguity in evaluating environmental impact.
• Risk of Greenwashing: Misrepresentation of investments as environmentally friendly without substantial sustainability benefits.

GS-I/Geography

Campi Flegrei Super Volcano

Source: CNN

Why in the News?

A 4.4 magnitude earthquake struck Italy's Campi Flegrei super volcano, with Pozzuoli as the epicenter. It was felt as far as Naples and is considered the strongest tremor in 40 years.

Bradyseism Concerns near Campi Flegrei:

• Campi Flegrei is prone to bradyseism, a phenomenon where ground elevation changes due to subsurface pressure.
• The area, located 50 kilometers from Mt. Vesuvius, is currently undergoing a new cycle of bradyseism as noted by volcanologists.
• Over 500,000 people reside in the red zone adjacent to Campi Flegrei, leading the Italian Civil Protection Agency to update evacuation plans.

About Campi Flegrei Volcano

• Campi Flegrei, also known as the Phlegraean Fields, is a sizable volcanic area situated in the western suburbs of Naples, Italy.
• It is recognized as one of the most active volcanic systems globally, having been active for a minimum of 50,000 years.

Its Volcanic System:

• Location: Campi Flegrei is positioned within the Campanian volcanic arc in southern Italy, extending from the city of Naples to the Gulf of Pozzuoli.
• Geological Formation: The volcanic system of Campi Flegrei is distinguished by a large caldera, which is a collapsed volcanic crater surrounded by numerous volcanic vents, craters, and lava domes. The caldera has a diameter of approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles).
• Volcanic Activity: Campi Flegrei is classified as a supervolcano due to its size and potential for significant eruptions. It has witnessed various periods of volcanic activity, including explosive eruptions, lava flows, and phreatic (steam-driven) eruptions.
• Terrain Features: The landscape of Campi Flegrei showcases volcanic characteristics such as craters, fumaroles (steam vents), mud pots, and hot springs.

PYQ:

• Mention the global occurrence of volcanic eruptions in '2021' and their impact on the regional environment.
• Consider the following statements:
  • The Barren Island volcano is an active volcano situated in the Indian Territory.
  • Barren Island lies about 140 km east of Great Nicobar.
  • The last eruption of the Barren Island volcano occurred in 1991, and it has remained inactive since then.

GS-I/Geography

Rising Heat Stress in Six Metros

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

Major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Hyderabad are facing increasing heat stress.

• The Center for Science and Environment in Delhi conducted a study highlighting this issue.
• Heatwaves have been persistent in various regions of India, such as Odisha, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi.
• Key Findings:
  • Heat stress escalation is primarily attributed to a rise in relative humidity over the past two decades.
  • Relative humidity is a measure of water vapor in the air concerning its temperature.
  • Urban areas experience an "urban heat island" effect due to increased construction, reduced green spaces, congestion, and human activities.
  • Warmer nights in these cities are linked to land surface temperatures not cooling as rapidly as before.
  • High heat and humidity levels can hinder the body's cooling mechanism, leading to health risks and potential fatalities.
• Implications:
  • Combination of high temperatures, humidity, and urbanization poses a threat to public health.
  • Emergency measures during heatwaves are crucial to safeguard the population.
  • Long-term strategies like increasing green spaces, enhancing thermal comfort in buildings, and reducing waste heat are essential for mitigation.

GS-III/Economy

The Challenges in Curbing Cultivation of a Banned Rice Variety in Punjab

Source: Indian Express

Why in the News?

Punjab's paddy farmers have started sowing seeds for this year's kharif season, defying the ban on variety PUSA-44.

About the Cultivation of Paddy Varieties like PUSA-44

• PUSA-44, a long-duration paddy variety developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), has been a major contributor to stubble burning.
• Its growth cycle of 155-160 days, from nursery sowing to harvesting, results in late October maturity, leaving a brief window for field preparation for the next crop.

The Impact on Groundwater in Punjab

• Severe over-extraction: 119 out of 138 blocks in Punjab are over-exploited, with central and southern regions like Patiala, Sangrur, Barnala, among the most affected.
• Water Table Depth: The average groundwater depth has exceeded 70 meters, with some areas facing unavailability even at 150-200 meters.
• Groundwater Depletion vs. Demand: Punjab extracts 14 billion cubic meters annually, surpassing the annual recharge of 20 BCM, leading to a deficit of 34 BCM.
• Future Projections: Groundwater levels could plummet below 300 meters in 18-20 years, resulting in contaminated water and costly extraction.

Reasons for Farmers' Reluctance to Stop Cultivation

• Higher Income: Cultivating PUSA-44 ensures a higher yield and guaranteed Minimum Support Price (MSP), boosting farmers' earnings.
• Seed Availability: Farmers retain seeds from previous seasons, and many stores have already distributed seeds for this variety.
• Resistance to Change: Despite knowing the negative impacts, farmers in districts like Barnala, Sangrur, and Moga persist with PUSA-44 due to heavy reliance.
• Transition Challenges: Shifting practices in entrenched districts with significant dependence on PUSA-44 is a gradual process.

Judicial Stance on Cultivation of Long-Duration Paddy Varieties

• The Supreme Court stresses the need to halt stubble burning in states like Punjab and advocates for alternatives like the shorter-duration Pusa-2090 rice variety.
• Pusa-2090 matures in 120-125 days, offering similar yields to PUSA-44 and addressing the issue of stubble burning.
• Happy Seeder (Tractor) serves as an eco-friendly alternative to stubble burning.

Way Forward

• Public Awareness and Guidance: Educate farmers about the benefits of short-duration varieties, emphasizing water efficiency and stubble management.
• Supportive Policies: Government and experts should offer incentives and assistance for transitioning to sustainable paddy varieties.
• Gradual Implementation: Recognize the need for a phased approach to changing farming practices in heavily reliant districts.

Main PYQ

The Ideal Solution for Depleting Groundwater Resources in India

• Implementing an effective water harvesting system in urban areas can significantly address the issue.

GS-II/International Relations

CARBON FIBER

Source: MSN

Why in News?

Vice President's Visit to NAL Facility in Bengaluru

• Properties of Carbon Fiber
• Applications of Carbon Fiber

Vice President's Visit to NAL Facility in Bengaluru

• Vice President recently visited National Aerospace Limited (NAL) facilities in Bengaluru.
• Laid the foundation stone of the Centre for Carbon Fiber and Prepregs.

Properties of Carbon Fiber

• Thin, strong crystalline filaments of carbon.
• Diameter of about 5 to 10 micrometers.
• Composed mostly of carbon atoms.
• Properties include:
  • High stiffness
  • High tensile strength
  • High strength-to-weight ratio
  • High chemical resistance
  • High-temperature tolerance
  • Low thermal expansion

Applications of Carbon Fiber

• Used in aerospace, civil engineering, military, motorsports, and other sports.
• Combined with other materials to form composites.
  • Example: Carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer
  • Example: Reinforced carbon-carbon composites
• Utilized in making aircraft parts, racing car bodies, golf club shafts, bicycle frames, and more.
• Provides high strength and light weight in various components.

GS-II/International Relations

Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC)

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The Government of India has granted $1 million as immediate assistance for Papua New Guinea, which has been hit by a devastating flood and landslip that has so far killed 2,000 people. 

What is FIPIC?

• The Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) is a multilateral platform initiated by India in 2014 to strengthen ties with Pacific Island countries.

Overview of FIPIC

• Purpose: FIPIC aims to enhance India's engagement with Pacific Island nations through collaborative projects.
• Members: FIPIC includes India and 14 Pacific Islands nations.
• Summits: FIPIC summits have been held in different countries to foster cooperation.

India's Act East Policy

• Introduction to Act East Policy
  • Launched in November 2014 by PM Modi, the Act East Policy aims to strengthen economic and strategic relations in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Objectives and Scope
  • Objectives: To enhance economic cooperation, cultural ties, and strategic partnerships, especially in the North Eastern Region.
  • Scope: Extends beyond ASEAN to include East Asian countries with a focus on various sectors.
• Key Dimensions
  • 4C's: Culture, Commerce, Connectivity, Capacity building are key focus areas.
• Security Focus
  • Act East Policy emphasizes enhanced security cooperation, particularly in response to regional challenges.
• Historical Context
  • Evolved from the Look East Policy to further India's strategic interests and counterbalance regional influences.
• Significant Engagements and Projects
  • India actively participates in regional forums and has undertaken major projects to strengthen regional ties.

GS-II/Governance

What are fire safety rules, and why are there compliance challenges?

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

Fire safety rules are essential regulations designed to prevent and mitigate the impact of fire incidents. However, there are challenges in ensuring compliance with these rules, as evidenced by recent tragic events.

Recent Fire Tragedies

• Rajkot gaming zone and Delhi children’s hospital fires resulted in 40 fatalities, emphasizing the critical need for stricter fire safety enforcement.
• The Accidental Deaths and Suicides in India (ADSI) report by the National Crimes Records Bureau revealed that in 2022, 7,435 individuals lost their lives in over 7,500 fire accidents.
• Lessons from past tragedies like the 1997 Uphaar Cinema fire and the 2004 Kumbakonam fire, which claimed the lives of 90 schoolchildren, seem to have been disregarded.

Laws and Guidelines for Fire Safety

• National Building Code (NBC): Issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards, it provides detailed fire safety measures and construction guidelines that states must incorporate into local building regulations.
• Model Building Bye Laws 2016: Issued by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, it offers norms for fire protection and safety in building construction.
• State Fire Services Act: Individual states have their own laws governing fire safety.
• National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Guidelines: Offer instructions for fire safety in various settings and emphasize the importance of evacuation procedures and safety spaces.

Key Points from Fire Safety Regulations

• Building Classification: Buildings are categorized based on occupancy, with specific safety measures for different types of structures.
• Construction Material: Non-combustible materials and fire-resistant internal walls are mandated.
• Electrical Safety: Requirements include flame retardant wiring, separate voltage wiring shafts, and fire-stop materials.
• Emergency Power and Signage: Provision of emergency systems like lighting, alarms, and clear exit signage.
• Technological Measures: Implementation of automatic fire detection systems, sprinklers, and other safety features.

Challenges in Fire Safety Compliance

• Lack of Uniform Legislation: Variability in safety laws across states and non-mandatory nature of the NBC hinder consistent enforcement.
• Inadequate Fire Safety Audits: Infrequent safety checks by local authorities contribute to non-compliance.
• Staff Shortages: Insufficient firefighting personnel exacerbate enforcement challenges.
• Community Awareness: Improved education and training are needed for better fire safety awareness and emergency response.

Judicial Responses

• Legal Actions: Courts have intervened in cases of negligence, mandating adherence to safety guidelines and regular audits.
• National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM): Emphasizes the importance of community resilience and adherence to safety standards.
• Report Findings: Reports highlight authorities' failure to learn from past incidents and enforce necessary safety measures.

Way Forward

• National Standards: Transforming the NBC into a mandatory standard nationwide can enhance safety regulations.
• Regular Inspections: Mandating frequent safety audits can ensure compliance.
• Transparent Assessment: Third-party agencies conducting unbiased audits can improve assessment accuracy.

Main Point for Discussion

• Discuss recent proactive disaster management measures by the Indian Government, departing from reactive approaches.