UKPSC Monthly Current Affairs: September 2024 | Monthly Current Affairs UKPSC - UKPSC (Uttarakhand) PDF Download

Dhanyavaad Prakriti

In the 114th episode of "Mann Ki Baat," Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the "Dhanyavaad Prakriti" campaign initiated by the youth of Jhala village in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. This campaign focuses on daily cleaning and proper waste disposal to promote cleanliness and environmental responsibility. The Prime Minister encouraged other villages to adopt similar initiatives as India approaches the 10-year anniversary of the Swachh Bharat Mission on October 2, 2024.

Key Points

Dhanyavaad Prakriti Campaign in Uttarakhand

• The youth of Jhala village in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, have started the "Dhanyavaad Prakriti" campaign.
• This initiative involves villagers dedicating two hours each day to clean their surroundings and dispose of garbage properly, ensuring it is taken outside the village.
• Prime Minister Modi praised this effort and encouraged other villages and localities across India to replicate such initiatives to promote cleanliness and environmental care.

Swachh Bharat Mission’s 10-Year Anniversary

• Prime Minister Modi reminded listeners that the Swachh Bharat Mission will mark its 10th anniversary on October 2, 2024.
• He emphasized that this movement is a fitting tribute to Mahatma Gandhi's lifelong commitment to cleanliness and hygiene.

'Waste to Wealth' and the Principles of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle

• The Prime Minister highlighted the increasing adoption of the principles of "Waste to Wealth," which focuses on reducing, reusing, and recycling waste materials.
• This reflects a growing awareness and commitment among people to manage waste effectively and sustainably.

About Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM)

• The Swachh Bharat Mission is a nationwide movement aimed at creating a Clean India, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's emphasis on cleanliness as a foundation for a healthy and prosperous life.
• Launched on October 2, 2014, the mission covers both rural and urban areas, with the urban component managed by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the rural component by the Ministry of Jal Shakti.

Impact of Landslides in Uttarakhand

Landslides

• The Badrinath National Highway (NH-7) in the Chamoli district has faced repeated blockages due to heavy rainfall, leading to the accumulation of debris.
• The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted more isolated heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand, which could cause further disruptions.

Landslide is a natural disaster where a large amount of rock, soil, and debris moves down a slope. This can happen on both natural and man-made slopes and is often caused by factors like heavy rain, earthquakes, volcanic activity, human activities (like construction or mining), and changes in groundwater levels.

• Types of Landslides:
• Slides: Movement along a rupture surface, can be rotational (curved surface) or translational (planar surface).
• Flows: Movement of soil or rock with a lot of water, includes earth flows, debris flows, mudflows, and creep.
• Spreads: Lateral extension and cracking of soil or rock mass, often due to liquefaction.
• Topples: Forward rotation and free-fall of soil or rock from a steep slope.
• Falls: Detachment from a steep slope and descending by free-fall, bouncing, or rolling.

Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Home Stay Development Scheme in Uttarakhand

World Tourism Day

• To mark World Tourism Day on September 27, 2024, the Uttarakhand Government is making significant improvements to its tourism infrastructure.
• The state plans to increase the number of rooms available under the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Home Stay Yojana, which promotes affordable and authentic lodging for visitors.

Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Home Stay Development Scheme

• The scheme aims to attract tourists to both popular and remote destinations in Uttarakhand.
• It focuses on improving local accommodation facilities, creating job opportunities for residents, and providing homeowners with an additional income source.

Main Objectives

• The scheme's primary goal is to offer clean and affordable home stay options for national and international tourists.
• It also aims to give travelers a chance to experience Uttarakhand's culture and cuisine.

Subsidies and Support

• For Hilly Areas:
• Capital subsidy of 33% or Rs. 10 lakh, whichever is lower.
• Interest subsidy of 50% of the interest or Rs. 1.50 lakh per year, whichever is lower, for the first five years.
• For Plains Areas:
• Capital subsidy of 25% or Rs. 7.50 lakh, whichever is lower.
• Interest subsidy of 50% of the interest or Rs. 1 lakh per year, whichever is lower, for the first five years.

The scheme aims to make Uttarakhand a more appealing destination by improving lodging quality and availability while supporting the local economy.

Uttarakhand to Set up 42 Forest Labs

Recently, the Uttarakhand Forest department has established 42 ecological laboratories to monitor the impact of climate change on the forests.

• These labs will collect data on changes like early flowering in rhododendrons and litchis, and the quality of Brahmakamal affected by high temperatures.
• These ‘ecological labs’, also called ‘living laboratories’ are distributed across various ecosystems, from the Terai region to alpine meadows.
• Uttarakhand is home to 46 distinct forest types, which can play important role in global climate change research.
• Uttarakhand this summer has reported soaring temperatures beyond 42 degree celsius, which affected the quality of Dehraduni and Ramnagar litchis.
• Rhododendron: Rhododendron is a genus of flowering plants with around 1,000 species, known for their showy, brightly colored flowers, and are popular as ornamental shrubs or small trees. In India, Rhododendron arboreum is the state flower of Himachal Pradesh, and is the state flower of Nagaland and the State Tree of Uttarakhand.
• Brahmakamal: It is the state flower of Uttarakhand. The plant occurs in alpine meadows of the Himalayas, from Jammu and Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh, and is also found in Bhutan, China, Nepal, and Pakistan at altitudes of 3700 to 4600 meters. The plant’s roots and floral buds are used to treat leucoderma, urinary issues, bone fractures, wounds, bone pain, cough, cold, and digestive problems; the whole plant is used for veterinary medicine in haematuria. In Tawang, its dried powder or paste is applied for skin diseases, and floral buds are used to treat boils.
• Litchi: Litchi belongs to the Sapindaceae family and is known for its delicious, juicy, translucent aril or edible flesh. Litchi thrives in sub-tropical climates and prefers moist conditions, growing best in regions with low elevation, up to an altitude of around 800 meters. The ideal soil for litchi cultivation is deep, well-drained loamy soil rich in organic matter. 
• Litchi is sensitive to extreme temperatures, not tolerating temperatures above 40.5 degrees Celsius in summer or freezing temperatures in winter. Prolonged rain, especially during flowering, can interfere with pollination and adversely affect the crop. In India, commercial cultivation was traditionally restricted to the north in the foot hills of Himalayas from Tripura to Jammu & Kashmir and plains of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. 
• Due to increased demand and viability, cultivation has expanded to states like Bihar, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh. Bihar alone accounts for nearly 40% of India’s litchi production, followed by West Bengal (12%) and Jharkhand (10%). India ranks as the second largest producer of litchi globally, following China, with other significant producing countries including Thailand, Australia, South Africa, Madagascar, and the United States.

CM Dhami Unveils Significant Subsidies and Initiatives

On his birthday, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami introduced various initiatives aimed at enhancing the state.

• Development Projects: The Chief Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation for several development projects focused on improving infrastructure and public services.
• Electricity Subsidy: A 50% subsidy on electricity was announced for consumers using up to 100 and 200 units.
• Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban): Under this scheme, 101 beneficiaries of the Lakshmi Housing Scheme in Shikarpur, Roorkee, Haridwar received possession letters and keys to their new homes. 
• Public Welfare Schemes: New public welfare schemes were introduced to benefit the residents of Uttarakhand.
• ADB-Funded Power Projects: The Chief Minister inaugurated five power projects funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), including GIS substations and transmission lines in various regions.

Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY):

• PMAY is part of the Government’s mission "Housing for All by 2022," focusing on urban housing for the economically weaker sections, low-income groups, and middle-income groups.
• The scheme aims to make home loans affordable for the urban poor by providing a subsidy on the interest rate during repayment.

Beneficiary Criteria:

• Economically Weaker Section (EWS): Families with a maximum annual income of Rs. 3,00,000.
• Low Income Group (LIG): Families with a maximum annual income of Rs. 6,00,000.
• Middle Income Groups (MIG I & II): Families with a maximum annual income of Rs. 18,00,000.

Definition of Beneficiary Family:

• A beneficiary family includes a husband, wife, unmarried sons, and/or unmarried daughters.

Government Action on Alleged Love Jihad and Land Jihad

The Uttarakhand government has recently taken steps against alleged Love Jihad and Land Jihad practices, responding to growing concerns about demographic changes in the state.

Love Jihad and Land Jihad:

• Love Jihad refers to the alleged practice of Muslims deceiving Hindu women into marriage for conversion.
• Land Jihad involves claims of Muslims acquiring land illegally or under false pretenses.

Demographic Concerns:

Areas like Purula, Dharchula, and Nandnagar have raised alarms about demographic shifts.

Population Statistics:

• As of the 2011 Census, Hindus made up 82.97% of Uttarakhand’s population, followed by Muslims at 13.95% and Christians at 0.37%.
• The 2023 projections continue to show Hinduism as the dominant religion.

Urban Migration:

The state is experiencing urban migration and population growth, intensifying concerns over demographic stability, especially in sensitive regions.

Uttarakhand Freedom of Religion Act, 2018:

• This law aims to regulate religious conversions, requiring declarations that conversions are not forced or fraudulent.
• It empowers authorities to annul marriages aimed solely at religious conversion.

Legal Provisions:

• Unlawful religious conversion is a cognizable and non-bailable offense.
• Offenders face imprisonment from 3 to 10 years and fines ranging from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 5 lakhs.

Clock Tower in Dehradun Stops Ticking

Recently, the famous Clock Tower in Dehradun has stopped working because thieves stole its copper parts from inside.

Historical Importance

The Clock Tower was built in the 1940s and was opened to the public in 1953 by Smt. Sarojini Naidu.

It was commissioned by Lala Sher Singh to honor his father, Lala Balbir Singh, and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by freedom fighters for India’s independence.

Architectural Features

• The tower has a unique hexagonal shape with a clock on each of its six sides.
• It stands about 85 meters tall, and its chimes used to be heard all over the city.

The Clock Tower is a symbol of Dehradun’s growth and is a source of pride for its residents.

Reduction of Helicopter Service Tax for Religious Purposes to 5%

Recent Announcement

• During the 54th GST Council Meeting, the Uttarakhand Finance Minister declared a reduction in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) for helicopter services used by pilgrims and tourists on a sharing basis.
• The tax rate for these services has been lowered from 18% to 5%.

Examples of Affected Services

• Kedarnath : Helicopter services for pilgrims visiting the Kedarnath shrine.
• Badrinath : Helicopter services for those traveling to the Badrinath temple.

Current GST Rates for Various Services

• Domestic Passenger Transportation : 5% GST, with Input Tax Credit (ITC) applicable only on input services (not on goods).
• International Charter Flights : Zero-rated, meaning no GST is applied as these services are considered exports.
• Non-Passenger Services : Generally subject to 18% GST, similar to other non-passenger air services.

Overview of Goods and Services Tax (GST)

• GST is a value-added tax imposed on most goods and services sold for domestic use. While consumers pay the GST, it is collected and remitted to the government by the businesses selling these goods and services.
• Applicability : GST applies to the supply of goods or services, unlike the previous system which focused on the manufacture or sale of goods or the provision of services.
• Taxation Principle : GST is based on destination-based consumption taxation, as opposed to the earlier origin-based taxation method.
• Dual GST System : GST comprises both Central GST (CGST) and State GST (SGST), levied simultaneously on a common tax base.
• Import of Goods and Services : Imports are treated as inter-state supplies and are subject to Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST), along with applicable customs duties.
• Determination of GST Rates : The rates for CGST, SGST, and IGST are mutually agreed upon by the Centre and the States and are notified based on the recommendations of the GST Council.

Maa Nanda - Sunanda Mohatsav

Recently, the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand virtually inaugurated the Maa Nanda-Sunanda Mahotsav 2024 in Nainital. He emphasized the festival's importance in reconnecting people with their cultural heritage.

Maa Nanda-Sunanda Mahotsav:

• This festival is celebrated in honor of the goddesses Nanda and Sunanda during the Nandashtami festival in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, every September.
• The celebration takes place in various locations, including Almora, Nainital, Kot Along, Bhowali, and Johar.

Bugyal Conservation Day:

• The Chief Minister also declared September 2nd as Bugyal Conservation Day. This initiative aims to protect alpine meadows, which are considered the Himalayas' "precious heritage."

Bugyals:

• Bugyals are high-altitude alpine meadows located in Uttarakhand.
• These meadows are known for their lush greenery and are found at elevations above 3,000 meters (10,000 feet).
• Ecologically, bugyals are vital for biodiversity, supporting various plant and animal species.
• They provide grazing grounds for livestock and play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.

Popular Bugyals in Uttarakhand:

• Dayara Bugyal: Renowned for its vast meadows and breathtaking views.
• Bedni Bugyal: Famous for its picturesque landscapes and popularity as a trekking destination.
• Auli Bugyal: Known for its stunning panoramic views and rich biodiversity, Auli is surrounded by the majestic peaks of Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Dunagiri.

Uttarakhand CM Approves Flood Relief Funds

Disaster Relief Fund

• Recently, the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand approved special assistance from the Chief Minister's Disaster Relief Fund to support businessmen affected by heavy rains in the Sonprayag area.
• The allocated funds are intended to compensate for the damage caused to pedestrian and motor roads from Linchauli to Sonprayag due to the severe rainfall.
• This financial assistance specifically targets those affected by the damage that occurred on July 31st.
• Payments will be processed through e-banking or demand drafts, and the details of the beneficiaries will be maintained at the district level.

CM Relief Fund (CMRF)

• The CM Relief Fund is an emergency assistance scheme designed to provide relief to families and individuals affected by natural calamities such as floods, droughts, earthquakes, and similar disasters.
• This fund aims to support deserving cases impacted by these unfortunate events.

Recent Floods in Uttarakhand

• In response to the recent floods, approximately 17,000 people were evacuated from disaster-affected areas in Uttarakhand.

Supreme Court Criticizes Appointment of New Director to Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park, located in Uttarakhand, spans 820 square kilometers along the foothills of the Shivalik range. It was established in 1983 by amalgamating three sanctuaries: Rajaji, Motichur, and Chila. The park is named after C. Rajgopalachari, a prominent freedom fighter known as "Rajaji."

• The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including Asian elephants, tigers, leopards, and various bird species. Forest types within the park include sal forests, riverine forests, broad-leaved mixed forests, scrubland, and grassy areas.
• In 2015, Rajaji National Park was designated as a Tiger Reserve, further highlighting its ecological significance.
• The park is also known for its cultural heritage, including the presence of the Van Gujjars, a pastoral community that migrates to the park in winter.
• Supreme Court Criticism: The Supreme Court recently criticized the Uttarakhand government for appointing a Forest Officer (IFS) as the Director of Rajaji National Park.
• Appointment Controversy: The appointment has sparked controversy because the officer is currently under investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for alleged illegal activities.
• Bypassing Officials: Allegations suggest that the Chief Minister bypassed objections from the Forest Minister and Chief Secretary, both of whom recommended reconsidering the appointment due to the officer's legal troubles.
• Supreme Court Observations: The Supreme Court emphasized that such decisions should not be made unilaterally and highlighted the importance of the public trust doctrine. The court stressed that the government's role is to protect natural resources responsibly, which was compromised in this case.

Landslides block Badrinath National Highway

A landslide has recently blocked the Jyotirmath-Malari road, which is a crucial connection to the India-China border area, as well as the Karnaprayag-Gwaldam national highway.
The landslides, triggered by heavy rainfall, have specifically blocked the highway at several locations, including Pagalnala, Patalganga, and Nandaprayag.

• Jyotirmath-Malari Road : This is a high mountain road within the Nanda Devi National Park, linking Jyotirmath, situated at an altitude of 1,934 meters, and Malari, at 3,033 meters. The road is known for its extreme steepness and numerous hairpin turns. It is also prone to periodic damage from winter snow, ice, and flooding from the Dhauliganga River.
• Dhauliganga River : This river originates from Vasudhara Tal, which is possibly the largest glacial lake in Uttarakhand. Dhauliganga is a significant tributary of the Alaknanda River, along with other tributaries like the Nandakini, Pindar, Mandakini, and Bhagirathi rivers. Dhauliganga merges with the Alaknanda River at Vishnuprayag.
• Nanda Devi National Park : This park is located around the peak of Nanda Devi, which stands at 7,816 meters in Uttarakhand, India. The park includes the Nanda Devi Sanctuary, a glacial basin surrounded by towering peaks, and is drained by the Rishi Ganga river. Nanda Devi National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, established in 1982 as Sanjay Gandhi National Park and later renamed. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988.
• Landslide : A landslide refers to the movement of rock, earth, or debris down a slope due to the force of gravity. This movement is often triggered by various factors such as heavy rainfall, earthquakes, or the inherent instability of the slope. Landslides result in the displacement of material, which can cause significant damage and destruction to the affected areas.
• Pitr Chaya Express: Recently, Uttarakhand announced plans to run a special train from Mumbai to Uttarakhand for temple visits.
• Tarpan at Haridwar, Rishikesh, Panch Prayag, and Brahma Kapal at Badrinath: This train is dedicated to honoring ancestors, covering important pilgrimage sites. It aligns with the Hindu tradition of offering “Tarpan” to ancestors during the Shradh (Pitr Paksh) period.
• Manaskhand Express: This train, which started in June 2024, offers a journey covering popular destinations in Uttarakhand, including train travel, meals on the train, road travel within the state, sightseeing, and accommodation in hotels or homestays.
• Destinations Covered: Punagiri Temple, Nanakmatta Gurudwara, Tea Garden at Champawat, Haat Kalika Temple, Patal Bhuvneshwar Temple, Jageshwar Temple, Golu Devta Temple, Kasar Devi Temple, Sun Temple Katarmal.

Changes to Filing Complaints in Government Departments

To combat the issue of fake complaints, the Uttarakhand government has introduced a new requirement for filing complaints against government departments.

• Affidavit Requirement: Complaints must now be accompanied by an affidavit to ensure their authenticity.
• Issue with False Details: The move comes in response to complaints being submitted with false information, such as incorrect addresses and phone numbers.
• Objective: The goal of this requirement is to ensure that only accurate and valid complaints are registered and addressed by the authorities.
• Reason: This initiative aims to prevent the misuse of the complaint system, which can waste time and resources, and to streamline the process for genuine complaints.