Weekly Current Affairs (1st to 7th December 2024) Part - 1 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Cultural Exchange and Growth of Kashmir's Craft Industry

Why in News?

• Recently, artisans from Kashmir and Central Asia reunited in Srinagar after nearly 500 years for a three-day craft exchange initiative, celebrating their shared heritage and reviving cultural connections. This event marked Srinagar's recognition as a “World Craft City” by the World Crafts Council (WCC).

Key Takeaways

• Artisans from Kashmir and Central Asia celebrated a historic craft exchange.
• Srinagar was recognized as a “World Craft City” by the World Crafts Council.
• Central Asia significantly influenced the development of crafts in Kashmir.

Additional Details

Historical Craft Connections: 

• Zain-ul-Abidin, the 9th Sultan of Kashmir in the 15th century, introduced Central Asian craft techniques to Kashmir, collaborating with artisans from Samarkand, Bukhara, and Persia. These cultural links diminished after his reign and ceased by 1947.

Craftsmanship Techniques:

• Wood Carving: Kashmiri artisans are known for intricate woodwork, integrating Central Asian techniques.
• Carpet Weaving: Influenced by Persian knotting methods, Kashmiri carpets feature patterns named after Iranian cities.
• Embroidery: The Uzbek suzani embroidery served as a precursor to Kashmir's sozini work.

World Craft City: Launched in 2014, this initiative by the World Crafts Council recognizes cities for their contributions to cultural and economic development through crafts.

Key Crafts of Srinagar:

• Pashmina Shawls: Renowned for quality, originating from Kashmir and promoted by Mughal Emperor Akbar.
• Kashmiri Carpets: Notable for rich designs and traditional Persian styles.
• Paper Mâché: An art form evolving from simple pen cases to intricate surface decoration.
• Embroidered Textiles: Utilizing fine techniques like Sozni and Aari work.
• Copperware: Traditional crafts including samovars and tea sets.
• Khatamband: A nail-free ceiling art using walnut or deodar wood in geometric patterns.

Artisans can gain from cross-border cultural exchanges by enhancing their skills, expanding markets, and serving as cultural ambassadors. However, they face challenges such as insufficient income, gender wage disparities, declining interest in traditional crafts, and a lack of innovation. To improve the global competitiveness of the Kashmiri handicraft sector, government support, educational initiatives, tourism integration, and sustainability practices are essential.

Interpreting the Places of Worship Act, 1991

Why in News?

• The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, which aims to maintain the religious character of places of worship, has come under scrutiny due to ongoing legal disputes. The recent controversy surrounding the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, has reignited discussions about the relevance and implications of this Act.

Key Takeaways

• The Shahi Jama Masjid is at the center of a legal dispute regarding its historical origins.
• The Places of Worship Act seeks to preserve the religious status of places of worship as they existed on August 15, 1947.

Additional Details

• Background of the Dispute: Petitioners allege that the Shahi Jama Masjid, built in the 16th century, was constructed on the site of an ancient Hindu temple. It was established around 1528 by Mir Hindu Beg, a general under Mughal Emperor Babur, featuring architectural elements that suggest ties to earlier structures.
• Judiciary Involvement: A local court ordered a survey to verify the claims about the mosque's historical and religious character, leading to violent clashes during subsequent surveys.
• Legal Status: The mosque is protected under the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act, 1904, and is recognized as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
• Provisions of the Act:
  • Section 3: Prohibits the conversion of any place of worship from one religious denomination to another.
  • Section 4(1): Mandates that the religious identity of a place of worship must remain unchanged from its status on August 15, 1947.
  • Section 4(2): Stops ongoing legal proceedings regarding conversions of places of worship prior to the Act.
  • Section 5 (Exceptions): Exempts the Ayodhya dispute and certain historical sites from the Act.
  • Section 6 (Penalties): Outlines penalties for violations, including imprisonment and fines.
• The Supreme Court has indicated that inquiries into the religious character of places of worship may proceed, provided they do not result in changes to that character.

In conclusion, the Places of Worship Act, 1991 is a crucial legal framework aimed at maintaining communal harmony by preserving the status of religious sites. However, ongoing legal challenges and the recent Shahi Jama Masjid dispute highlight the complexities and contentious nature of interpreting this Act in contemporary India.

Birth Anniversary of Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh

Why in News?

• Vice-President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar recently paid tributes on the 138th birth anniversary of Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh (1886-1979), a prominent visionary nationalist.

Key Takeaways

• Birth Date: December 1, 1886
• Place of Birth: Hathras, Uttar Pradesh
• Roles: Freedom fighter, revolutionary, writer, social reformer, and internationalist

Additional Details

• Contribution to Education: Founded Prem Mahavidyalaya in 1909, which is recognized as India's first polytechnic, aimed at promoting indigenous technical education.
• Freedom Movement Contributions: Participated in the 1906 Congress session in Kolkata and was an advocate for indigenous industries. He played a crucial role in the Swadeshi movement by promoting small industries and local artisans.
• Provisional Government: In 1915, during World War I, he proclaimed the first Provisional Government of India in Kabul, Afghanistan, opposing British colonial rule, and sought international support from countries like Germany, Japan, and Russia.
• Internationalist and Peace Advocate: Nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1932 for his global peace advocacy and efforts to expose British atrocities in India and Afghanistan.
• Political Career: After India's independence, he promoted the idea of Panchayati Raj and served as a Member of Parliament for Mathura in 1957.

Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh is remembered for his significant contributions to the Indian independence movement, particularly through his international diplomacy and efforts to raise awareness about India's struggles against colonial rule.

Rise and Challenges of India's Gig Economy

Why in News?

• According to a white paper by the Forum for Progressive Gig Workers, the gig economy in India is projected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17%, reaching USD 455 billion by 2024, driving significant economic growth and employment opportunities.

Key Takeaways

• The gig economy refers to a labor market characterized by short-term, flexible jobs, often facilitated through digital platforms.
• By 2030, gig workers are expected to comprise 4.1% of India's total workforce, significantly impacting job creation and economic growth.
• Challenges faced by gig workers include job insecurity, income volatility, and regulatory gaps.

Additional Details

• What is the Gig Economy: The gig economy consists of individuals or companies offering services on a temporary or task-by-task basis, rather than traditional full-time employment. Common activities include freelance work, food delivery, and digital services.
• Market Size: The number of gig workers in India is expected to grow from 7.7 million in 2020-21 to 23.5 million by 2029-30, with key sectors being e-commerce, transportation, and delivery services.
• Driving Factors: Major factors include digital penetration, startup growth, consumer demand for convenience, low-cost labor availability, and changing work preferences among younger generations.
• Challenges: Gig workers face job insecurity, income volatility, regulatory gaps, and issues with timely payments. Many express a desire for better skill-building opportunities.
• Way Forward: Suggested solutions include legal reforms to protect gig workers, a portable benefits system, and promoting skill development initiatives.

The gig economy is becoming a significant part of India's labor market, offering flexible employment options while also presenting unique challenges that need to be addressed through comprehensive policies and support systems.

Global Cooperation in Space Debris Management

Why in News?

• Recently, the issue of increasing satellites and space debris in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) has gained international attention. Experts are warning that without global cooperation, this crucial region of space may become unusable. In October 2024, a United Nations panel on space traffic coordination called for urgent measures to address this challenge.

Key Takeaways

• LEO is vital for satellite operations, but increasing congestion poses significant risks.
• Over 14,000 satellites, including 3,500 inactive ones, are currently in LEO, along with approximately 120 million debris fragments.
• International cooperation is essential to manage space debris and ensure safe operations in LEO.

Additional Details

• Lower Earth Orbit (LEO): Refers to an orbit around Earth at altitudes typically ranging from 180 km to 2,000 km. This region is closest to the Earth's surface and is frequently utilized for satellites, including the International Space Station (ISS).
• Satellites in LEO must travel at a speed of approximately 7.8 kilometers per second to maintain their orbit, balancing gravitational pull with centrifugal force.
• LEO is preferred for Earth observation and communication satellites due to high-resolution imaging and reduced latency.

Challenges Associated with LEO

• Congestion and Space Debris: The growing number of satellites raises concerns about space debris, which includes decommissioned satellites and broken parts, posing collision risks.
• Collision Risk: With a projected USD 556 million in damages between 2024-29 and a 3.13% collision probability, increased congestion poses serious hazards.
• Management Challenges: Issues include commercial interests limiting transparency, lack of standardization in collision avoidance methods, and geopolitical tensions affecting international cooperation.

Threats Posed by Space Debris

• Space debris poses significant risks to operational satellites, potentially rendering them nonfunctional.
• The accumulation of debris limits future missions' access to prime orbital slots.
• Kessler Syndrome is a scenario where increasing debris density leads to more collisions, generating even more debris.

Initiatives to Address Space Debris Challenges

• India's Initiatives: ISRO has established systems for monitoring and managing space debris, including the System for Safe and Sustainable Operations Management (IS 4 OM) and Project NETRA, an early-warning system.
• Global Initiatives: The Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC) and the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) focus on international coordination and guidelines for sustainable space activities.

Way Forward

• Improved monitoring and upgraded tracking technologies are essential for effective debris management.
• Enhanced international coordination and automated systems can help reduce congestion and prevent collisions.
• Active debris removal technologies, such as harpoons and directed lasers, are being explored to manage defunct space objects.

In conclusion, addressing the challenges posed by space debris requires global cooperation, innovative technologies, and adherence to international guidelines for sustainable space operations.

Demand for Holding Parliament Sessions Outside Delhi

Why in News?

• Recently, a Member of Parliament (MP) from the YSR Congress party proposed the idea of conducting two parliamentary sessions annually in South India. This proposal aims to address the logistical and climatic challenges that Members of Parliament face during the extreme winters and hot summers in Delhi. The concept, which has historical backing from notable figures such as B.R. Ambedkar and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, is now being revisited.

Key Takeaways

• The proposal seeks to decentralize parliamentary sessions to enhance regional representation.
• It highlights the difficulties posed by Delhi's climate on effective governance.
• Historical precedents support the idea of holding sessions outside Delhi.

Additional Details

• Historical Support: The notion of decentralizing parliamentary sessions was notably suggested by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who, in his book “Thoughts on Linguistic States,” argued for two capitals, citing Delhi's inconvenience for southern states due to its climate and distance. He proposed Hyderabad as a second capital during summer months for its central location and suitability.
• Private Member’s Resolution: In November 1959, MP Prakash Vir Shastri introduced a resolution to hold a session of the Lok Sabha in South India, suggesting cities like Hyderabad or Bangalore. He emphasized that this initiative was intended to promote national unity rather than be viewed through a political lens.
• Arguments for the Proposal:
  • Enhanced Regional Representation: Holding sessions in South India could improve visibility and representation of southern states in national policymaking.
  • Climate Considerations: Moving sessions could alleviate issues related to extreme weather, potentially enhancing the health and productivity of MPs.
  • Decentralization of Power: This initiative could promote the democratic principle that governance should be accessible to all citizens, irrespective of their geographical location.
  • Historical Precedent: Support from historical figures for similar proposals enhances the credibility of the current initiative.

Challenges to Consider

• Logistical Hurdles: Relocating parliamentary machinery and personnel would be complex and resource-intensive, with critics labeling it as a “tedious” undertaking.
• Political Polarization: Critics argue that this move might exacerbate the North-South divide by emphasizing regional identities over national unity.
• Institutional History: Parliament has functioned from Delhi for over 75 years, and some critics maintain that existing mechanisms adequately represent southern states.

Way Forward

• Pilot Regional Sessions: Conducting occasional parliamentary committee meetings or winter sessions in southern cities like Bengaluru or Hyderabad can help assess logistical challenges and public response.
• Strengthening Regional Representation: Increasing parliamentary seats for southern states post-census reforms could enhance regional equity without the need for logistical changes.
• Enhancing Accessibility: Investments in better communication technology and logistics could facilitate smoother integration for MPs from all regions, mitigating travel and climate challenges.

The proposal to hold parliamentary sessions in South India highlights ongoing discussions about regional representation and political decentralization. While it raises valid points regarding inclusivity and climate-related challenges, the practicality of such a move remains a topic of debate. A balanced approach that strengthens existing systems, leverages technology, and conducts regional pilot sessions may effectively address these concerns without compromising legislative efficiency.

Mains Question:

• Evaluate the arguments for and against holding Parliament sessions in South India. How could this impact national integration and regional representation?

Rising Road Accidents in India

Why in News?

• Recent data from the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways reveals alarming trends in road safety in India, indicating a rise in both road accidents and fatalities. This is particularly concerning in light of the government's goal to reduce road accident deaths by 50% by 2030.

Key Takeaways

• India has the highest road accident fatality rate globally, with 250 deaths per 10,000 km.
• In 2023, more than 4.80 lakh road accidents resulted in over 1.72 lakh deaths, a 2.6% increase from 2022.
• Major causes of fatalities include non-compliance with safety measures like helmet and seat belt usage.

Additional Details

• Total Accidents and Fatalities: In 2023, India recorded over 4.80 lakh road accidents leading to approximately 1.72 lakh deaths, which is a notable increase from the previous year.
• Demographic Insights: The year 2023 saw 10,000 minors and 35,000 pedestrians killed in road accidents. Notably, two-wheeler users and pedestrians accounted for 44.8% and 20% of fatalities, respectively.
• Regional Disparities: Uttar Pradesh reported the highest number of road deaths, with 44,000 accidents resulting in 23,650 fatalities.
• Human Behavior: Reckless driving and over-speeding were responsible for 68.1% of deaths in 2023.
• Infrastructure Deficiencies: Poorly maintained roads and design flaws significantly contribute to accidents.
• Lack of Awareness: Many drivers are not aware of the importance of safety features like airbags and the proper use of seat belts.

The current state of road accidents in India is alarming and requires urgent action. A multi-faceted approach that includes education, improved engineering of roads and vehicles, strict enforcement of laws, and enhanced emergency care is essential to address the high rates of road fatalities.