UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 9th December 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/ Polity and Governance

Copyright Act

Source: Indian Express

Why in News?

Recently, a legal notice was sent by Dhanush to Nayanthara, demanding Rs. 10 crore for allegedly infringing upon copyright related to a film.

• The Copyright Act, 1957 provides a comprehensive framework for copyright protection in India.
• The Act defines the rights of creators over their original works, including literary, artistic, and musical creations.
• Copyright protection duration varies depending on the type of work.

Additional Details

• Copyright Protection: Copyright grants exclusive rights to creators, allowing them to control reproduction, distribution, and adaptation of their works.
• Economic Rights: These include the right to reproduce, distribute, and publicly communicate the work.
• Moral Rights: Creators have the right to claim authorship and to object to any distortion or mutilation of their work.
• Duration of Copyright:
  • Literary, Artistic, Dramatic, and Musical Works: Life of the author plus 60 years.
  • Cinematograph Films and Sound Recordings: 60 years from the year of publication.
• Transformative Works: Works that significantly modify or reinterpret existing material are protected. For example, AIB’s parody of a popular Bollywood song is considered transformative.
• Works in the public domain, such as the Old and New Testaments or the Ramayana, are not protected by copyright, whereas adaptations like television series are.
• Copyright Infringement: A work is considered infringed only if a substantial part is used without authorization.
• Section 52: Lists exceptions where certain uses do not constitute infringement, such as fair dealing for research or criticism.

The Copyright Act remains a vital legal framework for protecting intellectual property rights in India, balancing the rights of creators with public interests.

GS3/Economics

The Issue of India’s Economic Growth Versus Emissions

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

The Economic Survey (2023-24) claims that India has managed to grow its economy without significantly increasing its greenhouse gas emissions. This assertion has ignited a debate regarding the actual sustainability of India's growth.

• India's GDP grew at a 7% CAGR from 2005 to 2019, while GHG emissions increased by only 4%.
• Emission intensity was reduced by 33% from 2005 levels, achieving its 2030 NDC target 11 years early.
• India aims to create a 2.5-3 billion tonne carbon sink by 2030, building on the 1.97 billion tonnes achieved from 2005 to 2019.
• Achieving NDC targets requires $2.5 trillion by 2030, focusing on domestic resources and technology access.

Additional Details

• Decoupling of Economic Growth from GHG Emissions: The Economic Survey does not specify whether the decoupling is absolute (declining emissions with GDP growth) or relative (emissions rising slower than GDP). India has seen relative decoupling since 1990, with GDP growing six-fold while emissions have only tripled. However, there is no absolute decoupling, as emissions continue to rise.
• Sectoral Analysis Needed: Agriculture and manufacturing, which are significant contributors to GHG emissions, require detailed sectoral analysis to better understand their impact.
• Government Initiatives: The Economic Survey outlines key government strategies including emission intensity reduction, investment in renewable energy, creation of carbon sinks, issuance of sovereign green bonds, and increased adaptation expenditure.

To achieve long-term climate commitments, India must strive for absolute decoupling, focusing on renewable energy, emission mitigation, and sustainable development initiatives.

GS2/International Relations

India to Chair the 68th Session of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs

Source: Business Standard

Why in News?

India has recently been appointed to chair the 68th session of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND), marking a significant milestone in its involvement in global drug control policies.

• This is the first occasion that India will chair this important UN body.
• The CND is a key policy-making entity for the United Nations regarding drug-related issues.
• India's leadership reinforces its growing role in addressing international challenges through multilateral frameworks.

Additional Details

• UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs: The CND is the principal policy-making body of the United Nations focused on drug-related matters, with a mandate to monitor global drug trends and assist member states in formulating balanced policies.
• Establishment and Structure: Established by a resolution of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in 1946, it consists of 53 member states elected by ECOSOC and operates under the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
• Functions: The CND meets annually to adopt decisions and resolutions, and it has five subsidiary bodies that focus on drug law enforcement across various regions.
• The headquarters of the CND is located in Vienna.

The appointment of India to chair the CND not only highlights its commitment to international drug control but also signifies its enhanced leadership role on the global stage.

GS3/Environment and Ecology

Indian Star Tortoise

Source: The Hindu

Why in News?

Recent research has revealed the existence of two genetically distinct groups within the Indian star tortoise species, specifically the northwestern and southern populations. This finding is critical for conservation efforts and understanding the biodiversity of this species.

• The Indian star tortoise is recognized for its unique star-like shell patterns.
• This species is primarily herbivorous, feeding on various types of vegetation.
• It is classified as vulnerable by the IUCN and is listed in CITES Appendix I.
• Urbanization and agricultural expansion pose significant threats to its habitat.

Additional Details

• Habitat: Indian star tortoises inhabit a range of environments, including semi-arid lowland forests, thorn scrub forests, and arid grasslands. They are particularly well-adapted to areas that experience seasonal wet and dry conditions.
• Distribution: This species is endemic to the Indian subcontinent, found in northwest India, South India, and Sri Lanka. Interestingly, individuals have also been discovered in homes far from their native habitats, including Canada and the United States.
• Behavior: Generally crepuscular, these tortoises are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, especially in hot weather.
• Diet: Their diet mainly consists of grasses, herbaceous leaves, and flowers, reflecting their herbivorous nature.

The Indian star tortoise is not only a remarkable species due to its striking appearance but also faces significant conservation challenges. Ongoing efforts are essential to protect its habitats and ensure the survival of both the northwestern and southern genetic groups.

GS1/Geography

Syria: A Geopolitical Overview

Source:Mint

Why in News?

On December 8, 2024, Syrian rebels declared the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad after taking control of Damascus. This pivotal moment marks the end of over 13 years of civil war and signifies a substantial shift in the power dynamics of West Asia, particularly affecting the influence of Russia and Iran, who have supported Assad throughout the conflict.

• The fall of Assad's regime represents a significant change in the political landscape of Syria.
• Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the leading rebel group, has emerged as a dominant force.
• Concerns remain among Syrians regarding the potential imposition of strict Islamist rule by HTS.

Additional Details

• Geographical Location: Syria is situated in West Asia, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the west, Turkey to the north, Iraq to the east and southeast, Jordan to the south, and Israel and Lebanon to the southwest.
• Capital: Damascus is the capital and the largest city of Syria.
• Historical Background: The region was part of the Ottoman Empire until the end of World War I, followed by a French mandate until its independence in 1946, leading to the establishment of the modern Syrian state.
• Ethnic and Religious Composition: The population is predominantly Arab, with substantial Kurdish, Armenian, Assyrian, and other minorities. The majority (87%) practice Islam, primarily Sunni (74%), alongside Alawism and Shia Islam (13%), and Christians (10%).
• Cultural Significance: Cities like Damascus and Aleppo are culturally rich, with Damascus being historically significant as the seat of the Umayyad Caliphate during Islamic rule.
• Economic Overview: Syria's GDP (PPP) is approximately $50.28 billion, with a per capita GDP around $2,900. The economy has faced severe challenges due to ongoing conflict, affecting infrastructure and development.

This recent development in Syria is not just a local issue but has far-reaching implications for regional stability and international relations, especially concerning the roles of Russia and Iran in the Middle East.

GS3/Environment and Ecology

All is Not Well with Soil

Source:Indian Express

Why in News?

The 10th World Soil Day, observed on December 5, 2024, underscored the vital importance of soil health in sustaining life on our planet. Coinciding with this global event, the Fertiliser Association of India (FAI) held its annual seminar focused on Sustainable Fertiliser and Agriculture, emphasizing the essential role of fertilizers in enriching soils and ensuring food security. This year's theme, "Caring for Soils – Measure, Monitor, and Manage," brought attention to the urgent need to combat soil degradation and nutrient deficiencies that threaten agricultural productivity.

• Less than 5% of Indian soils have adequate nitrogen.
• 40% of soils are sufficient in phosphate, 32% in potash, and only 20% in organic carbon.
• Micronutrient deficiencies in Indian soils, including sulphur, iron, zinc, and boron, are prevalent.
• India exported 85 million tonnes of cereals between 2020-21 and 2022-23, showcasing its agricultural strength.

Additional Details

• Imbalance in Nutrient Use: The overreliance on nitrogen fertilizers, primarily due to subsidies favoring urea, leads to skewed nutrient application ratios. For instance, Punjab uses 61% more nitrogen than recommended, while underusing potash by 89% and phosphate by 8%.
• Low Nutrient Use Efficiency (NUE): Only 35-40% of fertilizers applied are utilized by crops, resulting in significant environmental losses and greenhouse gas emissions.
• Subsidy Distortions: Urea is priced artificially low due to heavy subsidies, distorting market conditions and leading to imbalanced fertilizer use.
• Diversion and Smuggling: An estimated 20-25% of subsidized urea is misallocated for non-agricultural purposes or smuggled, further straining resources for actual farmers.
• Micronutrient Neglect: Despite their importance, micronutrients receive inadequate attention, resulting in widespread deficiencies that affect crop productivity.

Overall, these challenges threaten not only the profitability of farmers but also the long-term sustainability of agricultural land and the environment. Addressing these issues through effective policy reform can enhance soil health and agricultural productivity in India.

GS3/Environment and Ecology

Damselfish

Source: Forbes

Why in News?

A small team of ichthyologists has recently identified a new species of damselfish in the waters off the Maldives, highlighting the diversity and ecological significance of these fish in marine ecosystems.

• Damselfish are primarily found in warm tropical regions, including the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans.
• There are approximately 250 species of damselfish in the family Pomacentridae, which also includes clownfish.
• These fish are known for their vibrant colors and patterns, as well as their territorial and aggressive behavior.

Additional Details

• Habitat: Damselfish thrive mainly in reef environments but can also inhabit brackish and freshwater areas.
• Feeding Habits: Some species primarily consume plant matter or small aquatic animals, while others are omnivorous.
• Algae Farming: Certain damselfish species practice "algae farming," actively managing their habitats to promote the growth of desirable algae, which is vital for coral reef health.
• However, excessive damselfish populations can lead to stress on coral reefs, as they may consume live coral tissue while cultivating their algae gardens.

The discovery of new damselfish species not only enriches our understanding of marine biodiversity but also emphasizes the importance of protecting coral reef ecosystems, where these fish play crucial roles.

GS3/Economics

RBI's Approach to De-Dollarization and Diversifying Risks

Why in News?

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently articulated its perspective on de-dollarization, clarifying that its policies are primarily focused on diversifying risks rather than completely eliminating the use of the US dollar in international trade and reserves.

• RBI's strategy aims to reduce dependency on the US dollar while acknowledging its continued importance in global trade.
• Increased gold purchases by central banks signify a shift in reserve strategies amid global uncertainties.
• India is promoting trade in domestic currencies with select partners to mitigate risks associated with dollar reliance.

Additional Details

• De-dollarization: This term refers to efforts to decrease dependence on the US dollar in international transactions, often driven by geopolitical tensions and a desire for economic independence.
• Vostro Accounts: These are accounts held by foreign banks in Indian rupees, facilitating trade in local currencies and reducing the need for third-party currencies like the dollar.
• In 2022, global central banks purchased a record 1,136 tonnes of gold, indicating a growing trend towards diversifying reserves.
• Emerging markets, including India, are increasingly seeking alternatives to the dollar due to the geopolitical risks linked to its dominance.
• India's trade in rupees with partners such as Russia and the UAE is limited due to trade deficits, highlighting the challenges of implementing domestic currency trade.

In conclusion, the RBI's measured approach to managing dollar dependence reflects a strategic effort to balance risk mitigation with the need for stable global trade. While initiatives to increase gold reserves and promote the rupee are underway, challenges such as trade deficits and high transaction costs pose significant hurdles to fully reducing reliance on the dollar.

GS3/Science and Technology

What is Crohn's Disease?

Source: News Medical

Why in News?

Recent research has evaluated the effectiveness and safety of filgotinib, a Janus kinase (JAK) 1 preferential inhibitor, as both an induction and maintenance therapy for patients suffering from moderately to severely active Crohn's disease.

• Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• It is a chronic condition that leads to inflammation in the digestive tract.
• The cause of Crohn's disease is largely unknown, but may involve an abnormal immune response.
• Symptoms can begin in childhood or early adulthood but may develop at any age.

Additional Details

• Symptoms:Common symptoms include:
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal cramping and pain
  • Anemia
  • Altered appetite
  • Weight loss
• Treatment: While there is no known cure for Crohn's disease, various therapies can significantly alleviate its signs and symptoms.

In summary, while Crohn's disease presents significant challenges, ongoing research like the study on filgotinib brings hope for improved management of this condition.

GS2/Polity and Governance

India Internet Governance Forum 2024

Source:The Hindu

Why in News?

The India Internet Governance Forum (IIGF) 2024 is set to take place on December 9-10, 2024, at the Bharat Mandapam Convention Center in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. This event is significant as it marks an important gathering for discussions on vital internet policy issues in India.

• The IIGF is the Indian chapter of the United Nations Internet Governance Forum (UN IGF).
• Established in 2021, it aims to leverage the Internet's potential while addressing related challenges.
• The forum is supported by a 14-member multi-stakeholder committee, promoting inclusive dialogue.
• Key themes include cybersecurity, digital inclusion, data privacy, and emerging technologies.

Additional Details

• Support: The event is backed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI).
• Focus Areas: The forum will address essential themes such as Legal and Regulatory Frameworks for balanced internet governance and Responsible AI, emphasizing ethical artificial intelligence use for societal benefit.

The IIGF 2024 aims to deepen discussions on internet governance, foster meaningful dialogue, and reinforce India’s leadership in the global digital ecosystem. The initiative seeks to create a secure, inclusive, and sustainable digital landscape for all stakeholders.

GS3/Environment and Ecology

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve

Source: Hindustan Times

Why in News?

A recent investigation has been initiated following the emergence of a viral video that shows a convoy of vehicles, reportedly linked to a minister from Uttar Pradesh, traversing the core area of the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve.

• The reserve spans parts of the Pilibhit, Lakhimpur Kheri, and Bahraich districts, located along the India-Nepal border.
• It features a dry and hot climate, characterized by dry teak forests and the presence of the river Gomti.

Additional Details

• Geographical Significance: The Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas and the plains of the 'terai' region. It serves as a catchment area for various rivers, including the Gomti, Sharda, Chuka, and Mala Khannot.
• Flora: The reserve hosts a diverse range of vegetation, with dense sal forests and grasslands that undergo periodic flooding, contributing to the rich biodiversity.
• Fauna: The reserve is a sanctuary for several endangered species, including the tiger and swamp deer, as well as a variety of birds such as the Great Hornbill and Bengal Florican.

This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding wildlife conservation and the protection of natural habitats within the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve.