UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 6 August 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS3/Environment

Ol Doinyo Lengai Volcano

Source: Wion

Why in news?

Ol Doinyo Lengai Volcano has been gradually sinking into the ground over the last decade, as indicated by a recent study. This phenomenon might be attributed to a deflating reservoir beneath one of its two craters.

About Ol Doinyo Lengai Volcano:

• The volcano, named Ol Doinyo Lengai, translates to "Mountain of God" in the Maasai language. It stands as a distinctive and active stratovolcano located in the Gregory Rift, situated south of Lake Natron in Tanzania.

Geography and Structure

• Location: Positioned in the Arusha Region of Tanzania.
• Elevation: The volcano's summit reaches approximately 2,962 meters (9,718 feet) above sea level.
• Crater: Ol Doinyo Lengai comprises two primary craters, with the northern one currently active.

Unique Lava

• Ol Doinyo Lengai stands out as the sole known volcano globally that erupts carbonatite magma actively. This magma type is exceptionally fluid and contains high concentrations of alkali elements like calcium and sodium, while being low in silica.
• Contrary to most terrestrial magmas rich in silica, Ol Doinyo Lengai's magma has less than 25% silica by weight, compared to the typical 45-70% in other magmas.

Appearance

• Upon eruption, the lava appears black or dark gray but swiftly transitions to white upon drying. This transformation occurs due to the distinctive weathering process of carbonatite lava, influenced by its chemical composition.

GS3/Economy

Customs Duty Hike Imposed for Lab Chemicals

Source: The Hindu

Why in news?

The Finance Ministry has withdrawn a customs duty hike on imported laboratory chemicals, which was proposed post the Budget.

Importance of Imported Chemicals

• Imported chemicals, reagents, and enzymes are essential for experimental research across various scientific domains and the medical diagnostics industry.
• These include oxidisers, corrosive acids, and compressed gases, used in experiments and product development.
• Laboratory instruments like funnels, beakers, test tubes, and burners are closely associated with these chemicals.

Regulation of Chemicals

• Due to their diverse properties and potential hazards, these chemicals are regulated and their imports are scrutinised. They are often niche and expensive products.
• The Customs Department defines laboratory chemicals as organic or inorganic chemicals, imported in quantities not exceeding 500 grams or 500 milli-litres, identifiable by their purity and markings, intended solely for laboratory use.
• India is a major manufacturer and exporter of pharmaceuticals and complex chemicals.

Impact of Customs Duty Hike

• Researchers faced a significant price hike due to the increased Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on imported laboratory chemicals from 10% to 150%.
• For example, a batch of chemicals that previously cost ₹1,00,000 would now cost ₹2,50,000.
• Additionally, there was a 25% hike on imported plastic components for laboratory use.

Resolution by Customs Department

• The customs department has raised import duties on ethanol that was previously being classified as 'laboratory chemicals' to avoid a 150% customs duty.
• There are two main types of ethanol: regular ethanol used for alcohol production and 'denatured' ethanol, which is mixed with additives and used in laboratories and commercial applications.
• While local manufacturers typically produce denatured alcohol, the new Finance Ministry regulations require imported laboratory chemicals to include a letter stating that they will only be used in a laboratory and not for commercial resale.
• This could cause some delays in the procurement of these chemicals, although the duty rate will return to its original level.

GS3/Environment

Western Ghats

Source: Economic Times

Why in news?

Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre recently announced the formation of a task force aimed at addressing encroachments in the Western Ghats.

About Western Ghats

• The Western Ghats, also known as the Sahyadri, is a mountain range that extends 1,600 km along the western coast of the Indian peninsula.
• It passes through several Indian states: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
• These mountains create an almost continuous chain along the western edge of the Deccan Plateau, from the Tapti River to Swamithoppe in Kanyakumari district at the southern tip of India.
• The range meets the Eastern Ghats at Nilgiris before continuing south.
• Anamudi stands as the highest peak in the Western Ghats.

Features

• Biodiversity Hotspot: The Western Ghats are home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. They host over 5,000 flowering plants, 139 mammal species, 508 bird species, and numerous insects.
• Endemic Species: Many species found here are unique to the region. For example, the Nilgiri tahr, Malabar giant squirrel, and lion-tailed macaque are endemic to the Western Ghats.
• Rainfall Patterns: The Ghats intercept monsoon winds, resulting in heavy rainfall on the western slopes and a rain shadow effect on the eastern slopes. This significantly impacts India's climate.
• Water Source: Several rivers originate in the Western Ghats, including the Godavari, Krishna, and Cauvery. These rivers play a crucial role in supporting agriculture and ecosystems downstream.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized for its ecological significance, the Western Ghats are a designated World Heritage Site, highlighting their importance for global conservation efforts.

GS2/International Relations

India – Bangladesh Bilateral Relationship

Source: Economic Times

Why in News?

India’s relationship with Bangladesh may have entered a phase of uncertainty after Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned following weeks of violent demonstrations. The Army chief has declared that an interim government will now run the country.

Political History of Bangladesh

After the formation of Bangladesh in 1971, Awami League's Sheikh Mujibur Rahman became the first Prime Minister of the country. However, in 1975, he was assassinated during a coup.

1975-1990:

• The Bangladeshi military played a significant role, starting with Chief Justice Abu Sadat Mohammad Sayem's appointment as president in 1975, followed by a military junta.
• Gen Ziaur Rahman became President in 1977 but was assassinated in 1981.
• His successor, Abdus Sattar, was ousted in a 1982 coup led by Army Chief H M Ershad, who later resigned in 1990 due to mass unrest.

Civilian Governments:

• Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina (daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman) served non-consecutive terms, with an attempted coup in 1996.
• Khaleda's term ended in unrest in 2006, leading to a military-influenced caretaker government until 2008.

Post-2008 Stability:

• After regaining power in 2008, Hasina ensured the army returned to barracks.
• In 2010, the Supreme Court limited military interventions and reinforced secular principles in the constitution.

India – Bangladesh Bilateral Relationship

India and Bangladesh share bonds of history, language, culture, and multitude of other commonalities.

Historical Ties:

• India's relationship with Bangladesh dates back to the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War when India provided crucial military and material assistance to help Bangladesh gain independence from Pakistan.
• However, the relationship deteriorated in the mid-1970s due to boundary disputes, insurgency, and water-sharing issues, especially after military regimes took control in Bangladesh.

Economic and Commercial Ties:

• Bangladesh is India’s 25th largest trading partner, with the size of the bilateral trade at $12.9 billion.
• The trade is dominated by exports, with Bangladesh being India’s eighth largest export partner.
• In FY24, India's exports to Bangladesh contracted 9.5 per cent to $11 billion.
• Bangladesh is also a key destination for Indian auto exports, alongside African and Latin American countries.

Power and Energy:

• Bangladesh imports 1160 MW of power from India.
• Projects like the Maitree Super Thermal Power Plant and India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline are key initiatives.

Development Partnership:

• India has extended four Lines of Credit to Bangladesh amounting to USD 8 billion for infrastructure development.
• High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) are a significant part of India’s assistance, focusing on human resource development and capacity building.

Cultural Cooperation:

• Cultural exchanges are facilitated through the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre and Indian Cultural Centre in Dhaka.
• Programs in arts, dance, and language promote people-to-people contacts.
• The Bangladesh Youth Delegation program attracts young talent to visit India.

GS1/Geography

Nigeria

Source: First Post

Why in news?

Nigeria's president called for an end to protests against economic hardship. Amnesty International reported at least 13 fatalities in clashes with security forces during the initial day of protests in Nigeria.

About Nigeria

• Nigeria, officially known as the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a country in West Africa.
• Abuja serves as the capital, while Lagos is the largest city in Nigeria and one of the largest metropolitan areas globally.
• The nation is grappling with significant economic challenges and is currently experiencing a severe economic downturn characterized by high levels of poverty and youth unemployment.
• Geographically, Nigeria is positioned between the Sahel to the north and the Gulf of Guinea to the south in the Atlantic Ocean.
• Nigeria shares borders with Niger to the north, Chad to the northeast, Cameroon to the east, and Benin to the west.
• With a population exceeding 200 million people, Nigeria boasts over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 spoken languages, making it Africa's most populous country.
• Nigeria is a founding member of the African Union and participates in various international organizations such as the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, NAM, the Economic Community of West African States, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and OPEC.
• As Africa's leading oil producer, Nigeria faces numerous challenges including political instability, corruption, economic inequality, poverty, security threats like the Boko Haram insurgency, environmental degradation, pollution, as well as healthcare and education obstacles.

GS2/Polity

The Powers of the Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Delhi

Source: Live Law

Why in news?

The Supreme Court recently ruled that the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi has a statutory duty to nominate 10 persons or aldermen with expertise in municipal administration to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). This decision has sparked controversy, with the ruling party of the National Capital Territory of Delhi expressing concerns about the impact on democratic processes.

The Office of the Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Delhi:

• Constitutional Provisions:
  • Article 239 of the Indian Constitution assigns the administration of every union territory to an administrator appointed by the President of India.
  • The Constitution (69th Amendment) Act of 1991 introduced Article 239AA, establishing an elected Legislative Assembly and a Council of Ministers for the National Capital Territory of Delhi.
  • The LG of Delhi serves as the Administrator of the NCT.
• Powers of LG:
  • The LG typically acts on the advice of the Council of Ministers, but can exercise discretion when required by law.
  • In case of disagreements with the Ministers, the matter is referred to the President for a decision.
  • Under Article 239AB, the President may suspend provisions of Article 239AA if necessary for the administration of the NCT.

Tussle Between the Union Govt/LG and the Govt of NCT of Delhi:

• Political Conflicts:
  • The relationship between Articles 239 and 239AA leads to disputes between the Union and the NCT government over administrative control.
  • In 2018, the Supreme Court ruled that the LG must heed the advice of the Council of Ministers in matters where the Legislative Assembly has legislative powers.
  • The Government of National Capital Territory (Amendment) Act, 2021 was passed to counter this ruling.

Tussle Between the LG and the Govt of NCT over the Administration of MCD:

• The Legal Dispute:
  • The central question was whether the LG could nominate 10 individuals to the MCD without following the advice of the Council of Ministers.
  • In 2023, the Supreme Court ruled that the LG's power to nominate individuals to the MCD stems from the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act, 1957.

GS2/International Relations

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina Quits

Source: The Hindu

Why in news?

Sheikh Hasina has stepped down as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh amidst violent demonstrations demanding her resignation. The Bangladesh Army, under the leadership of General Waker-Uz-Zaman, has assumed control.

The scenario in Bangladesh

• Bangladesh has been experiencing significant protests for the past month concerning the job quota system.
• The demonstrations are primarily against the reinstatement of a 30% quota in government jobs at all levels for individuals who fought for Bangladesh's independence from Pakistan, along with their descendants.
• These protests mark the most extensive unrest since Sheikh Hasina's re-election for her fourth consecutive term in 2008.

Hasina's resignation and relocation to India

• After resigning, Sheikh Hasina left for India on a military aircraft due to weeks of anti-government protests resulting in numerous casualties.
• Following her resignation, she was reportedly given an ultimatum to leave the country.
• Upon departing Dhaka, she arrived at Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, and engaged in discussions with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval regarding the situation in Bangladesh and her future plans.

India's loss of a key ally

• Sheikh Hasina's departure signifies India losing a trusted regional partner after 17 years.
• Despite her re-election earlier in the year, Hasina's initial bilateral visit was to India, emphasizing the close collaboration between the two countries in combating terrorist activities in Bangladesh.
• During her tenure, a historic land boundary agreement was achieved between Bangladesh and India, strengthening their ties further.

Concerns over China's influence

• The increasing Chinese presence in Bangladesh poses a significant challenge to India, potentially isolating it from friendly neighboring countries.
• India's strategic and security interests could be compromised with China, Pakistan, Nepal, Afghanistan, Maldives, and a possibly ambivalent Bangladesh surrounding it.

India's historical dynamics with Bangladesh

• During the rule of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), anti-India sentiments rose sharply, leading to significant concerns for India's security.
• The BNP's alliance with groups like Jamaat-e-Islami and its anti-India stance intensified tensions between the two countries.
• India faced security challenges during the BNP's governance, with various insurgent groups operating from Bangladeshi territory.

Security implications for India

• India faces multiple security concerns on various fronts, including the LoC with Pakistan, the standoff with China in Ladakh, and volatility along the Myanmar border.
• The resurgence of Islamist extremism in Bangladesh could pose additional security challenges for India.

Future prospects and diplomatic relations

• The transit and trans-shipment agreements with Bangladesh may undergo changes under the new administration, impacting India's logistical supply chains to its Northeastern regions.
• India must collaborate with the interim government to ensure the continuity of these agreements.

India's stance and diplomatic considerations

• India has portrayed the violent protests in Bangladesh as an internal issue for the country.
• Despite criticism from Western nations regarding Sheikh Hasina's governance, India maintained its support for her, leading to tensions with Western powers.
• India's diplomatic engagements with Bangladesh are expected to continue, adapting to the new leadership's policies and approaches.

Conclusion

During the recent demonstrations, there were instances of anti-India sentiments, raising concerns over popular perceptions in Bangladesh. Diplomatic relations are anticipated to persist, albeit potentially differing from the rapport established during Sheikh Hasina's tenure.

GS2/Polity

SUBSTANTIVE EQUALITY AND THE QUOTA QUESTION

Source: Indian Express

Why in news?

The recent judgment by the Supreme Court regarding sub-classification within the Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) quota signifies a significant development in equality jurisprudence. Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud emphasized the concept of substantive equality in this ruling.

What is substantive equality?

• Substantive equality, unlike formal equality, focuses on addressing the actual disparities and disadvantages faced by individuals or groups due to their unique circumstances or historical injustices.
• It aims to provide equal opportunities by recognizing and addressing specific needs and barriers that different individuals or groups encounter.
• While formal equality treats everyone the same, substantive equality seeks to level the playing field by offering support and adjustments based on specific requirements and historical contexts.

Supreme Court's perspective on reservations

• Initial View:

  • The Supreme Court initially considered reservations as exceptions to the principle of equal opportunity, as seen in the State of Madras v. Champakam Dorairajan (1951) case.
  • Formalistic interpretations persisted until the Indra Sawhney v. Union of India (1992) judgment, where a 50% cap on reservations was imposed.

• Shift Towards Equality:

  • The State of Kerala v. N.M. Thomas (1975) case marked a shift towards a more expansive view of equality, allowing relaxation of criteria for SC and ST candidates in government jobs.

• Emphasis on Efficiency:

  • Article 335 of the Constitution emphasizes that reservations for SCs and STs must align with administrative efficiency.
  • The efficiency of administration was highlighted in various judgments, with reservations in promotions being a point of contention.

• Repudiation of Binary:

  • Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud rejects the notion that reservations are concessions, viewing them as embodiments of substantive equality.
  • He argues that reservations help in providing access to promotions for SC/ST candidates, thereby challenging the traditional reservation-versus-merit dichotomy.

GS3/Economy

FASTag

Source: Times of India

Why in news?

The National Payments Corporation of India implemented new FASTag regulations effective August 1, 2024, aimed at improving toll collection efficiency.

As part of the new rules, FASTag service providers are required to complete Know Your Customer (KYC) updates for all FASTags issued between three to five years ago by October 31, 2024. Furthermore, the NPCI mandates that any FASTag older than five years must be replaced.

About National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC)

• National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has developed the National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) program to meet the electronic tolling requirements of India.
• It offers an interoperable nationwide toll payment solution including clearing house services for settlement and dispute management.
• Interoperability, as it applies to the National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) system, encompasses a common set of processes, business rules, and technical specifications which enable a customer to use their FASTag as a payment mode on any of the toll plazas irrespective of who has acquired the toll plaza.

What is FASTag?

• FASTag is a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) passive tag used for making toll payments directly from the customer's linked prepaid or savings/current account.
• It is affixed on the windscreen of the vehicle and enables the customer to drive through toll plazas without stopping for any toll payments. The toll fare is directly deducted from the linked account of the customer.
• FASTag is also vehicle-specific and once affixed to a vehicle, it cannot be transferred to another vehicle.
• FASTag can be purchased from any of the NETC Member Banks. If a FASTag is linked to the prepaid account, then it needs to be recharged/topped up as per the customer's usage.