UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 10th December 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/Governance

UGC's New Guidelines to Promote Lifelong Learning

Source:The Hindu

Why in News?

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced new guidelines focused on the "Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in Higher Education". This initiative aims to enhance accessibility to education and promote lifelong learning, particularly addressing the needs of India's substantial informal workforce and bridging the gap between real-world experience and formal education.

Key Takeaways

• RPL is a formal system that evaluates and acknowledges skills and knowledge acquired through informal and experiential learning.
• The guidelines align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, promoting inclusivity and skill-based education.
• The initiative aims to foster economic growth and social inclusion by recognizing diverse learning experiences.

Additional Details

• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL allows individuals to gain formal recognition and qualifications based on their informal learning experiences, thereby enhancing career prospects and employability.
• Alignment with NEP 2020: The UGC Chairman emphasized that RPL supports the NEP 2020's goals of inclusivity and skill development, which is further reinforced by the National Credit Framework (NCrF).
• Objectives of RPL:
  • Enhancing Accessibility: Providing pathways for individuals with informal learning to access higher education.
  • Promoting Lifelong Learning: Equipping individuals with updated skills for evolving job markets.
  • Encouraging Social Inclusion: Supporting marginalized groups in gaining recognized qualifications.
• Benefits of RPL:
  • Economic Growth: Contributing to a skilled workforce and national economic development.
  • Career Progression: Improving employability through access to higher education and formal qualifications.
  • Bridging Gaps: Connecting practical experiences with formal education for better professional integration.
• Implementation Focus: The guidelines stress the importance of robust governance, collaboration among various stakeholders, and quality assurance to maintain the integrity of RPL.

The UGC's new RPL guidelines represent a significant step toward creating an inclusive and skill-oriented education system in India. By valuing diverse learning experiences and promoting lifelong education, this initiative addresses both societal and economic challenges, ultimately fostering a more equitable and capable workforce.

GS3/Environment

In Energy-Dependent World, the Issue of Food Security

Source:The Hindu

Why in News?

The World Bank highlights that the intertwined crises of food insecurity and energy poverty represent one of the most significant challenges of the 21st century. The agricultural sector, essential for human survival, both contributes to and suffers from energy dependency and climate change, making it crucial to explore the strains on food and energy systems and to seek sustainable solutions.

Key Takeaways

• Food production and energy systems are stressed by climate change, population growth, and systemic inequalities.
• Agriculture's dependency on fossil fuels exacerbates environmental degradation and food insecurity.
• Global food security is threatened by price volatility linked to fossil fuel costs.
• Inequities in energy access impact agricultural productivity, especially in low-income nations.

Additional Details

• Impact of Climate Change: Climate change, alongside rising global populations, places immense pressure on agricultural systems. Agriculture accounts for about 70% of global freshwater use and contributes over 20% of greenhouse gas emissions.
• Fossil Fuel Dependency: Modern agriculture relies heavily on fossil fuels for mechanization, irrigation, and fertilizer production, significantly impacting environmental sustainability.
• Economic Vulnerabilities: Fluctuating energy prices directly affect farmers' production costs, as seen during geopolitical events like the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which resulted in soaring fertilizer prices and increased food costs.
• Inequities in Energy Access: Low-income countries face challenges due to unreliable energy systems, limiting their agricultural productivity, as demonstrated by sub-Saharan Africa’s fertilizer usage.
• Future Directions: Solutions must focus on integrating renewable energy technologies in agriculture while ensuring equitable resource distribution and involving marginalized communities in decision-making.

In conclusion, addressing the dual crises of food and energy insecurity requires a comprehensive approach. By prioritizing sustainable agricultural practices and renewable energy solutions, we can work towards a more equitable future that safeguards food security while mitigating environmental degradation.

GS2/Polity

Article 67(b) of the Constitution of India

Source:The Wire

Why in News?

The opposition parties in India have initiated steps to submit a notice under Article 67(b) of the Constitution, aiming to remove the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, who is also the Vice President of India, from office.

Key Takeaways

• Article 67(b) outlines the procedure for the removal of the Vice President of India.
• A resolution for removal must be passed by a special majority in the Rajya Sabha and by a simple majority in the Lok Sabha.
• A minimum of 14 days' notice is required before moving the resolution.

Additional Details

• Removal Process:The Vice President can be removed from office through a resolution that requires:
  • A special majority vote in the Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
  • A simple majority vote in the Lok Sabha (House of the People).
• Notice Requirement: The resolution cannot be introduced without providing a minimum of 14 days' notice, which must clearly state the intention and reasons for the resolution.
• Discretionary Grounds: The Constitution does not specify particular grounds for removal, allowing Members of Parliament to exercise their discretion in determining the reasons.

This procedural framework emphasizes the checks and balances in place for the removal of the Vice President, reflecting the significance of legislative consensus in such critical matters of governance.

GS2/International Relations

Under Trump 2.0: The World and India Outlook

Source:The Hindu

Why in News?

Following the recent elections, it is anticipated that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump will adopt a more favorable stance towards India compared to other nations, impacting various aspects of international relations.

Key Takeaways

• Potential impacts of Trump’s protectionist trade policies.
• Effects of immigration policies on the Indian workforce in the U.S.
• Strategic opportunities and challenges for India in the Indo-Pacific region.

Additional Details

• Increased Tariffs: Trump is likely to impose higher tariffs on Chinese imports, which may shift trade dynamics. India could benefit as companies relocate manufacturing bases away from China, potentially boosting Indian exports.
• Supply Chain Diversification: As U.S. firms aim to diversify their supply chains, India could become a preferred alternative for manufacturing and technology services, enhancing economic ties.
• Pressure on Indian Goods: Retaliatory measures from China or other nations could lead to increased scrutiny or tariffs on Indian products, impacting competitiveness in those markets.
• H-1B Visa Restrictions: Stricter immigration policies may limit H-1B visas for Indian IT professionals, affecting their ability to work in the U.S.
• Talent Drain: Stringent immigration laws could drive skilled Indian professionals to seek opportunities in countries with friendlier immigration policies, impacting India's tech sector.
• Focus on Skilled Workers: If Trump prioritizes skilled labor that meets U.S. economic needs, there may be opportunities for Indian professionals who qualify.
• Strengthened Alliances: India is likely to strengthen ties with the U.S. and allies like Japan and Australia through frameworks like the Quad, aimed at counterbalancing China's influence.
• Defence Cooperation: Enhanced military collaboration may lead to increased sales and joint exercises with the U.S., bolstering India's defense capabilities.
• Balancing Relations with China: While strengthening ties with the U.S., India must carefully navigate its complex relationship with China amid heightened U.S.-China tensions.
• Regional Stability Challenges: Trump's assertive foreign policy could lead to greater instability in the Indo-Pacific, requiring India to manage its responses strategically.

In conclusion, India has several strategic opportunities under Trump’s leadership, but it must focus on leveraging partnerships while promoting domestic resilience through initiatives like "Make in India" to adapt to shifting global dynamics.

GS2/International Relations

India-Australia CCEA Stocktake

Source: PIB

A recent stocktake visit for the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) was held in New Delhi, highlighting ongoing discussions between India and Australia regarding economic collaboration.

Key Takeaways

• The discussions encompassed various critical aspects such as trade in goods and services, mobility, agri-tech cooperation, and market access modalities that support India's food security objectives.
• Both nations reaffirmed their shared commitment to ensuring that the CECA yields meaningful benefits and delivers a balanced outcome for both parties.
• The dialogues have paved the way for enhanced cooperation in agricultural innovation, market access, and supply chain resilience.

Additional Details

• About India-Australia CECA Negotiations: CECA is a comprehensive trade agreement that aims to be more extensive than the previous India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), which has been in effect since December 2022.
• Negotiations for CECA began in May 2011, were suspended in 2016, and were re-launched in 2021 following the conclusion of ECTA. To date, ten rounds of negotiations have been conducted.
• Key Features of CECA: The agreement covers various areas including digital trade, government procurement, and specific rules regarding product origins. It also introduces new domains such as competition policy, MSMEs, critical minerals, and sports.
• India-Australia Trade Statistics (2023-24): Imports from Australia decreased by 15% to USD 16.15 billion, while exports to Australia increased by 14.23% to USD 7.94 billion. Australia is currently India's 13th largest export destination and 14th largest source of imports.

In summary, the CECA aims to enhance bilateral trade and cooperation between India and Australia, focusing on sectors that contribute to economic growth and resilience.

GS3/Environment

Recent Rescue of a Markhor in Kashmir

Source: Economic Times

Why in News?

A male markhor, one of the most elusive large mammals in India, was rescued by wildlife authorities after straying into Noorkhah village near Baramulla in north Kashmir. This incident highlights the species' presence in regions close to protected areas such as Kazinag National Park and the Line of Control.

Key Takeaways

• The Markhor (Capra falconeri) is a large wild goat species native to mountainous regions of South Asia and Central Asia, particularly found in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and parts of India (Jammu and Kashmir).
• Conservation Status: It has been listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List since 2015.
• CITES: The species is listed under Appendix I, which prohibits international trade.
• National Animal: The markhor is the national animal of Pakistan, commonly referred to as the screw-horned goat due to its distinct corkscrew-shaped horns.
• Etymology: The name "Markhor" is derived from Pashto and Persian, meaning "snake-eater", which refers to an ancient belief regarding its diet.

Additional Details

• Physical Characteristics:
  • Horns: Both male and female markhors have tightly curled, corkscrew-like horns, with males' horns reaching lengths of up to 160 cm (63 in).
  • Coat: Their coat is grizzled and ranges in color from light brown to black, varying in thickness and length with the seasons.
• Habitat:
  • Elevation: Markhors are typically found in mountainous terrains at elevations between 600 and 3,600 meters (2,000 to 11,800 feet).
  • Environment: They inhabit shrub forests comprising oaks, pines, and junipers.
• Behavior:
  • Activity: Markhors are diurnal, with peak activity occurring in the early morning and late afternoon.
  • Diet: They are herbivorous, grazing on grasses during spring and summer, and browsing on leaves and shoots in winter.
  • Reproduction: Mating season occurs in winter, characterized by males engaging in horn-locking fights to establish dominance.
• Threats:
  • Habitat Loss: The species faces threats from deforestation and land conversion for agricultural purposes.
  • Illegal Wildlife Trade: Poaching for meat and prized horns is a significant concern.
  • Predation: Natural predators include snow leopards, brown bears, lynxes, jackals, and golden eagles.

The rescue of the markhor emphasizes the need for continued conservation efforts to protect this remarkable species and its habitat from various threats. Awareness and action are crucial for ensuring the survival of such elusive wildlife in their natural environments.

GS3/Science and Technology

Research on Melye-amiley: A Traditional Fermented Bamboo Shoot with Anti-Obesity Effects

Source: Economic Times

Why in News?

A recent study published in the journal Food Frontiers has brought attention to the traditional fermented bamboo shoot variety from Tripura, known as Melye-amiley, highlighting its potential anti-obesity benefits. This research presents promising implications for weight management and metabolic health.

Key Takeaways

• Melye-amiley is a traditional shoot variety from Tripura.
• It has demonstrated significant anti-obesity effects.
• The extract reduces lipid accumulation and promotes fatty acid β-oxidation.

Additional Details

• In-vitro Studies: Research indicates that treatment with Melye-amiley extract can significantly reduce intracellular lipid accumulation.
• The mechanism involves an increase in the expression of lipolytic genes such as HSL, LPL, and Agtl, as well as fat browning regulators like UCP1, PRDM16, and PGC1-alpha.
• Furthermore, the study shows that Melye-amiley treatment enhances thermogenic protein expression through the AMPK signaling pathway, which stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis and boosts fatty acid β-oxidation.
• This multifaceted approach suggests that the fermented bamboo shoot extract can effectively increase energy expenditure in white adipocytes, positioning it as a valuable option for weight management.

The findings of this study suggest that the fermented bamboo shoot extract, Melye-amiley, offers a promising natural solution for combating obesity, enhancing metabolic health, and promoting effective weight management strategies.

GS3/Science and Technology

Subaru Telescope Captures Interacting Galaxies NGC 5257 and NGC 5258

Source:MSN

Why in News?

The Subaru Telescope has made headlines for its stunning capture of a pair of interacting galaxies, designated as NGC 5257 and NGC 5258. This observation highlights the telescope's advanced capabilities in astronomical research.

Key Takeaways

• The Subaru Telescope is an 8.2-metre optical-infrared telescope located on Mauna Kea, Hawaii.
• It is operated by the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan and is renowned for its ability to gather faint light from distant celestial objects.

Additional Details

• Location: The telescope is situated on Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano that rises 4,163 metres above sea level, providing an optimal environment for astronomical observations.
• Design Feature: To combat air turbulence, the telescope's dome is cylindrical, a unique design compared to the hemispherical domes of many other observatories.
• The Subaru Telescope's observations range from nearby shooting stars to galaxies located 13.1 billion light years away, showcasing its extensive observational reach.

This recent observation of NGC 5257 and NGC 5258 not only demonstrates the Subaru Telescope's capabilities but also contributes valuable insights into the study of galaxy interactions in the universe.

GS2/Governance

Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman Scheme

Source:DTE

Why in News?

The central government has recently updated the prices of food items provided to children under the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Yojana, highlighting the ongoing efforts to enhance nutritional support for school-aged children in India.

Key Takeaways

• The Mid-Day Meal Scheme was renamed to the Pradhan Mantri POSHAN Scheme in 2021.
• This scheme aims to provide nutritional support and improve school attendance among students.
• One hot cooked meal is offered to students in Balvatika and classes I to VIII at government and aided schools on all school days.

Additional Details

• Objectives of the Scheme:
  • To improve the nutritional status of eligible children in government and government-aided schools.
  • To encourage regular school attendance among children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
  • To provide nutritional support to children in drought-affected and disaster-stricken areas during summer vacations.
• Inflation Data: The Labour Bureau of the Ministry of Labour analyzes inflation for items in the PM POSHAN basket using the Consumer Price Index – Rural Labourers (CPI-RL).
• The CPI-RL is compiled based on price data collected monthly from 600 villages across 20 states in India.
• The government has recently increased the 'Material Cost' for the PM POSHAN items by 13.70% based on CPI-RL data.

This revision of food prices under the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman Scheme reflects the government’s commitment to addressing hunger and improving educational outcomes for children across the nation.

GS3/Defence & Security

Overview of Voronezh Radar

Source: Eurasian Times

Why in News?

India is poised to finalize a significant defense agreement worth USD 4 billion with Russia, which involves the acquisition of the Voronezh ballistic missile attack early warning radar system. This development underscores the importance of advanced radar technology in modern defense strategies.

Key Takeaways

• The Voronezh radar system enhances Russia's early warning and missile defense capabilities.
• It can track various threats, including ballistic missiles and aircraft, up to distances of 8,000 kilometers.
• Phased array technology allows for quick electronic steering, improving operational efficiency.

Additional Details

• Voronezh Radar System: This radar is a vital part of Russia's defense infrastructure, designed to detect and monitor missile threats and other aerial activities.
• Deployment: Voronezh radars are strategically placed throughout Russia to ensure broad coverage against potential missile attacks.
• Types of Voronezh Radars: Various models exist, including the Voronezh-M (meter range), Voronezh-DM (decimeter range), and Voronezh-CM (centimeter range), as well as hybrids that utilize multiple ranges.
• Integrated System: Multiple Voronezh radars can operate together as part of a comprehensive Missile Attack Early Warning System, creating a unified radar picture for enhanced situational awareness.

This agreement not only signifies India's commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities but also reflects the ongoing strategic partnership between India and Russia in the domain of military technology.

GS3/Economy

The Friction Between RBI Governors and the Indian Government

Source:Indian Express

Why in News?

As Shaktikanta Das concludes his tenure as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on December 10, his leadership has been marked by notable tensions between the central bank and the government. This friction primarily revolves around monetary policy decisions and reflects a longstanding history of conflicts between successive RBI Governors and the Indian government.

Key Takeaways

• The relationship between the RBI and the government has historically been characterized by tension, particularly concerning monetary policy.
• Key issues during Das's tenure included the standoff over policy rates amid economic challenges.
• The appointment of Sanjay Malhotra as the 26th RBI Governor marks a new chapter in this ongoing dynamic.

Additional Details

• Historical Context: The friction between RBI Governors and the government is not new. Governors such as YV Reddy, D Subbarao, Raghuram Rajan, and Urjit Patel faced significant challenges in maintaining the autonomy of the RBI against governmental pressures.
• Key Issues During Shaktikanta Das's Tenure: Despite government urging to reduce key policy rates to stimulate the economy, the RBI maintained the repo rate at 6.50% to manage inflation, demonstrating a prioritization of inflation control over growth stimulation.
• Recurring Themes: Conflicts often arise over the autonomy of the central bank, interest rate policies, regulatory jurisdiction, and diverging priorities between the government and RBI.

The ongoing tension between the RBI and the government highlights the delicate balance required to ensure monetary policy autonomy while addressing fiscal and economic needs. As Shaktikanta Das's tenure comes to a close, this dynamic underscores the critical role of the RBI in maintaining financial stability amidst political pressures.