Weekly Current Affairs (1st to 7th January 2025) Part - 2 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

PMAY-G and Rural Poverty Alleviation in India

Why in News?

• The Ministry of Rural Development has emphasized the progress of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) and is intensifying efforts to create poverty-free villages. By ensuring the timely and effective implementation of rural development schemes, the ministry aims to achieve a poverty-free India.

Key Takeaways

• PMAY-G was introduced in 2016 to provide affordable housing for the rural poor.
• Beneficiaries are selected based on the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data and validated through Gram Sabha approvals and geo-tagging.

Additional Details

• Financial Assistance: Beneficiaries receive Rs 1.20 lakh in plain areas and Rs 1.30 lakh in select hill states, including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
• Cost-sharing patterns are split as follows: 60:40 (Centre: State) in plain areas, 90:10 in northeastern and Himalayan states, and 100% Centre-funded in UT Ladakh.
• Toilet Support: Rs 12,000 is provided for toilet construction via the Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen (SBM-G).
• Cooking Fuel: One LPG connection per household is provided in convergence with the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana.
• Employment Support: The scheme provides 90/95 person-days of unskilled work under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) for house construction.
• The scheme earmarks 60% of targets for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) households, having completed 59.58 lakh SC and 58.57 lakh ST houses.
• The scheme's initial target of 2.95 crore houses by 2023-24 has been extended by 2 crore more houses, with a total outlay of Rs 3,06,137 crore for FY 2024-29.
• As of November 2024, 3.21 crore houses have been sanctioned, with 2.67 crore houses completed and 4.19 lakh houses completed between June and December 2024.
• Mobile applications like Awas Plus-2024 and Awas Sakhi have been launched to streamline beneficiary identification and enhance transparency.

Challenges in Removing Poverty in Rural India

• Dependency on Agriculture: A significant portion of the rural population relies on agriculture, facing challenges such as climate change and poor irrigation, which limit income generation.
• Unemployment and Underemployment: Limited job opportunities outside agriculture lead to high unemployment and underemployment rates.
• Limited Access to Services: Basic services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure are often inadequate.
• Land Ownership: Many rural families lack secure land rights, hindering investment in livelihoods.
• Social Inequality: Marginalized communities, including women, SCs, and STs, face discrimination, perpetuating poverty.
• Migration: Many educated youth migrate to urban areas, leading to a "brain drain" in rural regions.
• Governance Challenges: Weak implementation of policies, corruption, inadequate data, and limited public awareness hinder effective poverty reduction.

How Can Rural India be Made Poverty-free?

• Achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) like No Poverty (SDG 1), Zero Hunger (SDG 2), and Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3).
• Social Protection and Welfare: Ensure comprehensive coverage under pension schemes and 100% healthcare access for Below Poverty Line (BPL) families.
• Employment Generation and Livelihoods: Provide necessary employment under MGNREGA and conduct skill mapping and training.
• Link Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmers Producer Organisations (FPO) with enterprise schemes to enhance income levels.
• Infrastructure Development: Build roads, schools, and community centers to improve access to services.
• Encourage behavioral and social change to discourage exploitative informal credit and promote women's participation in decision-making.
• Disaster Preparedness and Climate Action: Establish a Task Force for Disaster Risk Reduction and promote climate-resilient agricultural practices.

In conclusion, poverty alleviation in rural India requires a comprehensive approach that integrates housing, financial support, employment opportunities, and infrastructure development. Addressing challenges such as agricultural dependency, unemployment, and social inequality is crucial for achieving poverty-free villages through sustainable development and financial inclusion.

Mains Question:

• Assess the challenges faced by rural India in achieving poverty reduction and the role government initiatives play in overcoming these challenges.

Thorium-based Nuclear Energy Production

Why in News?

• India's largest power generator, National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) Limited, has entered into a strategic agreement with US-based Clean Core Thorium Energy (CCTE) to explore the development and deployment of advanced nuclear energy technologies, specifically thorium-based fuel known as Advanced Nuclear Energy for Enriched Life (ANEEL). This innovative fuel, developed by CCTE, is designed for use in pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs). The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) aims to utilize India's significant thorium reserves within its ambitious three-stage nuclear power program as a long-term energy strategy.

Key Takeaways

• NTPC and CCTE have partnered to enhance thorium-based nuclear energy production.
• ANEEL fuel is compatible with India's existing nuclear infrastructure, primarily PHWRs.
• India's three-stage nuclear program focuses on leveraging abundant thorium resources.

Additional Details

• Advanced Nuclear Energy for Enriched Life (ANEEL): ANEEL is a patented nuclear fuel that combines High Assay Low Enriched Uranium (HALEU) with thorium. It honors Dr. Anil Kakodkar, a leading nuclear scientist in India. HALEU, enriched between 5% and 20%, is crucial for many advanced nuclear reactor designs and is primarily produced in Russia and China.
• Compatibility with PHWRs: ANEEL fuel can be utilized in India's existing 22 operating reactors, which include 18 PHWRs and 4 Light Water Reactors (LWRs). India is also constructing 10 new PHWRs, each with a capacity of 700 MW.
• Ease of Thorium Deployment: ANEEL simplifies thorium use by allowing the incorporation of imported HALEU, contrasting with the traditional method of creating thorium blankets around uranium or plutonium reactors.
• Efficiency: The burn-up efficiency of ANEEL fuel is 60,000 MW-days per tonne, significantly higher than the 7,000 MW-days per tonne for conventional natural uranium, leading to reduced waste and operational costs.
• Non-Proliferation: Thorium and spent ANEEL fuel are non-weaponizable, alleviating concerns for foreign uranium suppliers and operators.

India's nuclear strategy, through its three-stage program, aims to harness the country's vast thorium reserves for sustainable energy solutions. The collaboration with CCTE for advanced thorium fuel signifies a promising trajectory for the development of efficient, low-waste nuclear power. Despite existing challenges, the potential of thorium in addressing India's energy needs is considerable.

Mains Question:

• Discuss the significance of thorium-based nuclear reactors in India’s energy strategy. How does the three-stage nuclear power program align with this objective?

Transgender Rights and Related Concerns

Why in News?

• The recent ruling in the Ms. X vs State of Karnataka Case in 2024 by the High Court has significant implications for transgender rights in India. The court affirmed that transgender individuals have the right to change their name and gender on birth certificates, aligning with the provisions of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, and the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Rules, 2020.

Key Takeaways

• The Karnataka High Court ruled in favor of a transgender individual, allowing changes to birth certificates based on gender identity.
• This ruling emphasizes the precedence of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act over the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969.

Additional Details

• Background: The petitioner, diagnosed with gender dysphoria, had undergone sex-reassignment surgery and changed her identity on several official documents, but faced rejection for her birth certificate.
• Gender Dysphoria: This term refers to the psychological distress experienced when a person's assigned sex at birth does not align with their gender identity.
• Legal Objection: Under Section 15 of the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969, changes to birth certificates are allowed only in cases of erroneous or fraudulent information.
• Violation of Fundamental Rights: The petitioner argued that the limitations imposed by the Registration Act violated her right to live with dignity, as guaranteed by Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.
• Karnataka HC Ruling: The court noted that the 1969 Act is a general law and must defer to the special provisions of the Transgender Persons Act, invoking the principle of generalia specialibus non-derogant.
• Significance: The ruling reinforces the legal recognition of gender identity for transgender individuals and sets a precedent for future cases.

Issues Faced by Transgender Individuals in India

• Social Marginalization: Exclusion from society leads to limited social participation and increased isolation.
• Discrimination in Education: Transgender students often face bullying, resulting in high dropout rates and lower literacy levels.
• Homelessness: Family rejection and inadequate housing options force many transgender youth to live on the streets, leading to further abuse and mental health challenges.
• Transphobia: Societal intolerance results in violence and discrimination against transgender individuals.
• Psychological Distress: Many transgender individuals experience anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts due to a lack of support.
• Public Representation: Negative media portrayals perpetuate harmful stereotypes and societal rejection.

Way Forward

• Empowerment and Legal Reform: A more inclusive approach in policy-making is crucial for addressing transgender issues.
• Access to Education: Schools need to implement anti-bullying policies specifically for transgender students.
• Addressing Social Concerns: Ensuring access to essential services such as legal aid and education is vital.
• Economic Opportunities: Providing financial assistance can help transgender individuals become entrepreneurs.
• Combating Transphobia: Public education campaigns are necessary to challenge stereotypes and promote acceptance.

This case highlights the ongoing struggle for transgender rights in India and the importance of legal frameworks that support their identity and dignity. Continued advocacy and reform are essential for improving the lives of transgender individuals in society.

Managing Hazardous Waste

Why in News?

• Four decades after the Bhopal gas tragedy (1984), hazardous waste (toxic waste) from the abandoned Union Carbide India Ltd (UCIL) factory in Madhya Pradesh was finally removed for incineration.

Key Takeaways

• The Bhopal Gas Tragedy is recognized as the world's worst industrial disaster.
• Hazardous waste poses significant risks to health and the environment.
• India generates approximately 7.66 million tonnes of hazardous waste annually.
• Regulatory frameworks like the Environment Protection Act and Basel Convention help manage hazardous waste.

Additional Details

• Bhopal Gas Tragedy: On December 2, 1984, a catastrophic chemical leak at the UCIL pesticide plant in Bhopal resulted in the release of methyl isocyanate (MIC) gas, killing over 5000 people and affecting more than half a million others.
• Health Effects: Immediate effects included respiratory issues and abdominal pain, while long-term effects involved chronic conditions like decreased lung function and genetic abnormalities.
• Government Response: The Indian government enacted the Bhopal Gas Leak Disaster (Processing of Claims) Act, 1985, and a settlement of USD 470 million was reached in 1989.
• Hazardous Waste Definition: Hazardous waste is defined as waste that poses a danger due to its toxic, flammable, reactive, or corrosive characteristics.
• Sources of Hazardous Waste: This includes the production and consumption of chemicals, outdated technologies, and residues from wastewater treatment.
• Disposal Methods: Common disposal methods include co-processing in cement plants, material and energy recovery, incineration, and pyrolysis.
• Statistics: Approximately 83% of hazardous waste in India is generated in seven states, namely Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh.

The Bhopal Gas Tragedy underscores the severe consequences of industrial safety negligence. Although regulatory measures like the Hazardous Waste Management Rules and the Basel Convention have been introduced, challenges in safe waste disposal persist, highlighting the urgent need for stricter compliance and effective remediation strategies in India.

Artesian Well in Rajasthan and Tethys Sea

Why in News?

• Recently, large amounts of water have begun gushing out from underground in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, which is attributed to an artesian well in India. Experts have rejected the notion that this water is linked to the ancient Saraswati River, suggesting instead that it may be millions of years old, with origins from the Tethys Sea from pre-Vedic times.

Key Takeaways

• Artesian wells allow water to rise naturally under pressure without pumping.
• The recent water gushing in Rajasthan has possible links to ancient geological formations.

Additional Details

• What is an Artesian Well: An artesian well is a well where water rises to the surface naturally due to pressure, without the need for pumping. This occurs when water is trapped in a confined aquifer, which is surrounded by impermeable layers such as clay or rock.
• Formation: Artesian wells are formed when a well penetrates a confined aquifer, allowing the water, which is under pressure from the weight above, to rise through the borehole.
• Water Flow: In cases where the pressure is sufficient, water can flow freely to the surface, termed "flowing artesian wells." If the pressure is insufficient, mechanical pumps may be necessary.
• Locations: Notable examples of artesian wells include the Great Artesian Basin in Australia and the Dakota aquifer in the United States.
• Difference with Tube Wells: Artesian wells can rise on their own due to natural pressure, while tube wells require external power to pump water.

Features of Artesian Wells Found in Rajasthan

• Water Eruption: In the desert regions of Rajasthan, water is confined beneath a geological layer of sandstone. When the top layer is punctured, water flows upwards due to heavy pressure, often gushing out like a fountain.
• Ancient Sea Evidence: The borewell water exhibits high salinity akin to that from ancient seas, believed to be remnants from around 250 million years ago.
• Presence of Marine Clay: Along with water, fine white marine clay with skeletal remains surfaced, supporting the idea that the groundwater is part of ancient sea remnants.
• Geological Significance: Jaisalmer once bordered the Tethys Sea, which housed dinosaurs on one side and deep waters on the other. Fossils of giant sharks have been discovered only in certain locations like Jaisalmer, Japan, and Thailand.

Key Facts About the Tethys Sea

• The Tethys Sea formed during the early Mesozoic Era, particularly in the Triassic period (about 250 to 201 million years ago).
• It was situated between the landmasses of Gondwana and Laurasia, which included present-day continents.
• Geographic Extent: The Tethys Sea extended across parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, connecting the Pacific Ocean in the east and the Atlantic in the west.
• Closure: By the Late Cretaceous (around 66 million years ago), the Tethys Sea began to close due to tectonic plate shifts, leading to the formation of smaller seas like the Mediterranean and Caspian Seas.
• Tectonic Significance: The closure of the Tethys Sea contributed to the creation of new landmasses, including the Indian subcontinent's movement toward the Asian plate, which resulted in the uplift of the Himalayan mountain range.
• Fossil Evidence: The Tethys Sea was home to diverse marine life, including early sharks and marine reptiles, contributing to the development of petroleum basins in North Africa and the Middle East.

In conclusion, the recent emergence of water from underground in Jaisalmer, attributed to an artesian well, has reignited discussions regarding its potential connection to the ancient Saraswati River. However, scientific assessments indicate that the water is more likely linked to remnants of the Tethys Sea, rather than the Saraswati River.

Mains Question: 

• Discuss the concept and formation of artesian wells.

67th Foundation Day of DRDO

Why in News?

• Recently, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) celebrated its Foundation Day on 1st January and paid tributes to former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, known as the Missile Man of India. This event highlighted the significant strides DRDO has made in enhancing India’s defense capabilities.

Key Takeaways

• DRDO was established in 1958 through the merger of several defense and technical organizations.
• It operates 41 laboratories and 5 DRDO Young Scientist Laboratories (DYSLs).
• The guiding principle of DRDO is "Balasya Mulam Vigyanam" (Strength lies in science).

Additional Details

• Establishment: DRDO was formed by merging the Technical Development Establishment (TDEs) of the Indian Army, the Directorate of Technical Development and Production (DTDP), and the Defence Science Organisation (DSO), serving as the R&D wing of the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.
• Mission: To achieve self-reliance in critical defense technologies and systems while equipping the Indian armed forces with advanced weapon systems.
• Technology Clusters: In 2007, DRDO restructured into seven technology domain-based clusters, each led by a Director General.

In 2024, DRDO made significant advancements and handed over multiple advanced systems including Air Defence Systems and Missile Systems. They also developed AI tools such as ‘Divya Drishti’, enhancing defense capabilities through innovative technologies.

Key Achievements of DRDO

• System Handovers: Advanced systems like Air Defence Tactical Control Radar (ADTCR) and Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LR-LACM) were handed over.
• Flagship Programs: Two flagship programs were sanctioned, focusing on the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and a new Missile Test Range in Andhra Pradesh.

Contributions of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam to DRDO

• Leadership in IGMDP: Dr. Kalam played a pivotal role in the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP), which aimed at developing a range of indigenous missiles.
• Under his leadership, key missiles such as Prithvi, Trishul, Akash, Nag, and Agni were developed, establishing India as a missile-producing nation.

Dr. Kalam's vision and leadership not only advanced missile technology but also reduced India's dependency on foreign suppliers, significantly contributing to national security and defense self-reliance.

The Integrated Guided Missile Development Program was initiated to strengthen India's defense capabilities and resulted in significant technological advancements, fostering an indigenous defense industrial base.

Mains Question:

• Discuss the role of DRDO in India’s journey towards self-reliance in defense technologies, with specific reference to the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program.

SBI Reports Decline in Poverty in India

Why in News?

• A recent research report by the State Bank of India (SBI) highlights a significant decline in poverty rates across both rural and urban India. This improvement is attributed to targeted government interventions, advancements in rural infrastructure, and enhanced consumption patterns among lower-income groups.

Key Takeaways

Decline in Poverty Rates:

• Rural Poverty: Reduced to 4.86% in FY24 from 25.7% in 2011-12.
• Urban Poverty: Estimated at 4.09% in FY24, down from 13.7% in 2011-12.

Impact of Government Interventions: Enhanced rural livelihoods through Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT), infrastructure development, and farmer-centric initiatives have significantly reduced consumption inequality.

Improved Consumption in Rural Areas: The gap between rural and urban consumption is narrowing, with rural Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) showing a decline in disparity.

Additional Details

• Poverty Line Definition: The estimated poverty line in FY24 is Rs 1,632 for rural areas and Rs 1,944 for urban areas, adjusted for inflation.
• State-wise Savings: Higher income states report savings rates above the national average of 31%, while low-income states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar show significantly low savings rates.

The report concludes that while poverty rates are declining, disparities still exist, particularly between different states and urban-rural divides. Continuous government support and policy initiatives will be essential to sustain progress and address remaining challenges in poverty alleviation.