UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 19th February 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/Polity

SC to Hear Petitions Against Law on CEC Appointment Today

Recently, the Supreme Court has agreed to prioritize a hearing on February 19 regarding petitions challenging the new law that increases the central government's authority over the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs).

• The Supreme Court is examining the validity of the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Act, 2023.
• This law removes the Chief Justice of India (CJI) from the selection panel for Election Commissioners.
• Petitioners argue that this change undermines democratic principles and the integrity of the electoral process.

Additional Details

• Challenge to the 2023 Law: The Supreme Court is reviewing the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Act, 2023, which has been criticized for excluding the CJI from the selection panel for Election Commissioners. Petitioners claim this exclusion is a "mockery of democracy" and violates a previous Supreme Court ruling.
• Opposition Dissent: The Congress party has raised concerns that the selection process, now lacking the CJI, increases the risk of executive interference in the appointments, which could compromise the independence of the Election Commission.
• Concerns About Neutrality: Critics argue that the current selection committee, comprising the Prime Minister, a Union Cabinet Minister, and the Leader of the Opposition, may be biased towards the ruling party, which could affect the neutrality of the Election Commission.

The appointment process for the CEC is governed by Article 324 of the Constitution, which empowers the Election Commission of India (ECI) to oversee and manage elections at different levels. The 2023 Act has modified the previously established procedure, leading to ongoing legal debates regarding its legitimacy and adherence to constitutional mandates.

Legal and Constitutional Basis of CEC

• Section 7(1) of the Act: This section defines the selection committee for appointing the CEC and ECs, which now excludes the CJI, raising questions about the validity of such legislative changes.
• Article 141 of the Constitution: The Supreme Court will assess whether the 2023 Act undermines the authority of the Supreme Court to issue binding decisions.
• Dilution of Supreme Court Judgment: Petitioners argue that the 2023 law compromises the integrity of past Supreme Court judgments aimed at protecting the independence of the Election Commission.

Way Forward

• Restore Judicial Oversight: Reinstating the Chief Justice of India in the selection panel could enhance judicial independence and maintain the neutrality of the Election Commission.
• Legislative Safeguards: Enacting a comprehensive law to ensure a transparent and bipartisan appointment process may reduce executive influence and reinforce democratic principles.

In conclusion, the ongoing legal scrutiny of the 2023 Act reflects significant concerns about the independence and integrity of the Election Commission, a crucial institution for maintaining the democratic process in India.

GS3/Environment

Sariska Tiger Reserve (STR)

The forest department has recently made the decision to notify the eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) of Sariska Tiger Reserve (STR), highlighting its ecological significance and the need for protective measures.

• Sariska Tiger Reserve is located in Rajasthan and spans an area of 800 sq. km.
• It was historically a hunting ground for the Maharaja of Alwar before being designated as a natural reserve in 1955 and later as a national park in 1979.
• STR is notable for being the first reserve globally to successfully relocate tigers.
• The reserve is home to ancient temples, palaces, and lakes, including Pandu Pol, Bhangarh Fort, Ajabgarh, Pratapgarh, Siliserh Lake, and Jai Samand Lake.

Additional Details

• Topography: The landscape features rocky terrains, scrub thorn forests, grasses, hilly cliffs, and semi-deciduous woodlands.
• Vegetation: The flora of Sariska is classified as Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests and Tropical Thorn Forests, with predominant species including dhol trees, salar, kadaya, gol, ber, Banyan, gugal, bamboo, kair, and adusta.
• Fauna: In addition to tigers, the reserve hosts a diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, sambhar, chital, nilgai, four-horned antelope, and wild boar.

The notification of the eco-sensitive zone aims to enhance conservation efforts and maintain the ecological balance of the Sariska Tiger Reserve, ensuring the protection of its unique biodiversity and heritage.

GS2/International Relations

India, Qatar Sign Strategic Partnership Agreement

The Amir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, recently made a State Visit to India, during which he engaged in bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Modi. This visit marks his second official trip to India, the first being in March 2015.

• India and Qatar have elevated their diplomatic ties to a strategic partnership.
• Both nations aim to double bilateral trade to $28 billion by 2030.
• Qatar's Sovereign Wealth Fund has committed to investing $10 billion in various sectors in India.

Additional Details

• India-Qatar Bilateral Relationship: India and Qatar share a strong relationship characterized by historical ties, high-level engagements, and a significant Indian diaspora that plays a crucial role in Qatar's development.
• Defence Cooperation: The defense collaboration involves training, naval visits, and a Defense Cooperation Agreement, which is monitored by the Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC).
• Commercial & Investment Relations: In 2022-23, the bilateral trade reached $18.76 billion, with India exporting $1.96 billion and importing $16.8 billion from Qatar.
• Energy Cooperation: Qatar is India's largest supplier of LNG and LPG, providing over 48% of India's LNG imports and 29% of its LPG imports in FY 2022-23.
• Cultural Cooperation: The Indian community in Qatar counts over 835,000, making up about 27% of the total population. Recent labor reforms in Qatar benefit this diaspora.
• Strategic Importance: Qatar's strategic location, rich energy resources, and robust trade potential make it a key partner for India.

In conclusion, the recent visit and the agreements signed reflect a significant step forward in India-Qatar relations, with both countries committed to enhancing their economic, cultural, and strategic cooperation in the upcoming years.

GS2/International Relations

Qatar-India Strategic Partnership

Recently, India and Qatar have strengthened their diplomatic ties by establishing a strategic partnership aimed at significantly increasing bilateral trade to nearly $30 billion by the year 2030.

• India and Qatar aim to double their bilateral trade to almost $30 billion by 2030.
• Qatar is a small nation located on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula.
• Doha serves as the capital and the largest city of Qatar.

Additional Details

• Geography: Qatar shares a sole land border with Saudi Arabia to the south and is surrounded by the Persian Gulf on all other sides. The country spans an area of approximately 11,571 sq.km.
• Landscape: The landscape is mostly flat and features barren desert with sand dunes in the south, particularly in the Khor al Adaid area, known as the "Inland Sea." The northern and western regions have slightly rockier terrain with low limestone formations and dry wadis that can transform into rivers during the rainy season.
• Ethnic Composition: Originally settled by Bedouin nomads from central Arabia, Qatari citizens now represent only about one-ninth of the total population. The economic growth since the 1970s has led to a significant influx of foreign workers from countries such as Pakistan, India, and Iran, who now outnumber Qatari nationals.

This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in enhancing collaboration between India and Qatar, with potential implications for economic growth and cultural exchange.

GS2/Polity

Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996

A five-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court recently convened to deliberate on the extent to which courts can modify an arbitral award under Sections 34 and 37 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996.

• The Arbitration and Conciliation Act provides a structured framework for alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in India.
• This act has standardized and updated laws related to arbitration, mediation, and conciliation.
• It facilitates a less adversarial and more cost-effective dispute resolution process compared to traditional court proceedings.

Additional Details

• Framework of the Act: The act creates a two-tiered system offering both arbitration and conciliation, which allows for different modes of conflict resolution.
• Flexibility: Parties involved have the option to select their rules of procedure and arbitrators, promoting flexibility and convenience.
• Confidentiality: The Act mandates confidentiality in proceedings, which is essential for business disputes where sensitive information may be disclosed.
• Finality and Enforceability: Awards granted through arbitration are binding and can be enforced by courts, ensuring compliance from the parties involved.
• Judicial Support: While the Act provides for limited judicial intervention, courts can still step in for appointing arbitrators or enforcing awards when necessary.
• Global Compatibility: Aligned with the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) Model Law, the Act supports international arbitration.

Major Provisions of the Act

• Arbitration Agreement: A written agreement between parties to resolve disputes through arbitration, allowing for the commencement of arbitration proceedings.
• Appointment of Arbitrators: Parties can appoint arbitrators; however, courts may intervene if there is a failure to agree on an appointment, promoting self-regulation with judicial support.
• Interim Measures: Courts are authorized to provide interim relief before arbitration proceedings commence, protecting parties from potential asset loss.
• Arbitral Proceedings: Parties have the autonomy to agree on procedural rules or adopt institutional guidelines, encouraging procedural flexibility.
• Forms and Contents of Arbitral Award: Awards must be documented in writing, signed by arbitrators, and include reasoning unless the parties decide otherwise.
• Setting Aside Awards: The Act specifies conditions under which a court may annul an award, including cases of party incapacity or invalid agreements.
• Appeals: Appeals are limited to specific grounds to ensure awards are largely final and enforceable, reducing the risk of prolonged litigation.

Amendments to the Arbitration and Conciliation Act

• 2015 Amendment: Introduced strict timelines for initiating arbitral proceedings, aiming for completion within 12 months, and limited judicial interference to ensure finality.
• 2019 Amendment: Established the Arbitration Council of India (ACI) to set arbitration standards and promote institutional arbitration while mandating disclosure of any conflicts of interest by arbitrators.
• 2021 Amendment: Removed automatic stays on arbitral awards for issues such as fraud or corruption and streamlined the enforcement process, endorsing a pro-enforcement stance.

The ongoing discussions regarding the court's power to modify arbitral awards highlight the evolving nature of arbitration as a preferred method of dispute resolution in India, balancing the need for judicial oversight with the principles of autonomy and efficiency.

GS3/Economy

Soil Health Card Scheme

The Soil Health Card Scheme has recently completed a decade since its launch, marking a significant milestone in promoting sustainable agriculture in India.

• The scheme was initiated in 2015 to help state governments provide soil health cards to farmers.
• It offers farmers vital information on the nutrient status of their soil along with tailored recommendations for nutrient application.

Additional Details

• Soil Health Parameters: The soil health cards assess the soil based on 12 critical parameters:
  • Macro-nutrients: Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), and Sulfur (S).
  • Micro-nutrients: Zinc (Zn), Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), and Boron (Bo).
  • Physical properties: pH (Acidity or Basicity), Electrical Conductivity (EC), and Organic Carbon (OC).
• Soil Sampling: Soil samples are typically collected twice a year, following the harvest of Rabi and Kharif crops or when there is no standing crop in the field.
• Farmers receive their soil health card once every three years, ensuring they have updated information.
• Village Level Soil Testing Labs: These can be established by rural youth and community-based entrepreneurs, including Self Help Groups (SHGs), schools, and agricultural universities to provide test results.
• The Soil Health Card Scheme has been integrated into the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) as a component called ‘Soil Health & Fertility’ since the 2022-23 fiscal year.
• Technological Advancements: A mobile application (SHC Mobile App) has been developed to facilitate the implementation and monitoring of the scheme, providing farmers with easy access to their soil health cards.
• Benefits: The scheme enables farmers to monitor their soil health effectively and receive formatted reports, aiding them in making informed decisions about crop cultivation. This regular monitoring ensures that farmers are aware of any changes in soil conditions and can adapt accordingly.
• Nodal Agency: The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW) oversees the implementation of the Soil Health Card Scheme.

In conclusion, the Soil Health Card Scheme represents a significant effort to enhance soil health and agricultural productivity in India, benefiting farmers with necessary insights into their soil's nutrient status and fertilization needs.

GS3/Economy

Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) Findings

The latest quarterly data from the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) reveals that the unemployment rate in urban areas has remained steady at 6.4% during the third quarter (October-December) of FY25, compared to the previous quarter.

• The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) in urban areas has risen from 49.9% in October-December 2023 to 50.4% in the same period of 2024.
• LFPR for males aged 15 years and above increased from 74.1% to 75.4%, indicating a positive trend in male participation.
• LFPR for females in urban areas also saw a slight increase from 25.0% to 25.2%.
• The Worker Population Ratio (WPR) in urban areas improved from 46.6% to 47.2% during the same time frame.
• The overall unemployment rate (UR) in urban areas decreased marginally from 6.5% to 6.4%.
• Unemployment among females dropped from 8.6% to 8.1%, while the rate for males remained constant at 5.8%.
• However, the jobless rate for youth aged 15-29 increased to 16.1% from 15.8% in the previous quarter.

Additional Details

• Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): This metric reflects the percentage of the working-age population that is either employed or actively seeking employment. The increase in LFPR indicates a growing engagement of individuals in the labor market.
• Worker Population Ratio (WPR): This represents the proportion of the population that is employed. The rise in WPR signifies an improvement in job availability and employment rates across urban areas.
• The PLFS, conducted by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) since 2017, aims to provide timely data on employment and unemployment indicators.

In summary, while the overall unemployment rate remains stable, there are notable changes in labor force participation and employment ratios, particularly among different demographics. The increasing youth unemployment rate is a concern that requires further attention.

GS3/Economy

Inland Water Transport Terminal in Assam

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has recently inaugurated an Inland Waterways Terminal (IWT) on the Brahmaputra River in Jogighopa, Assam. This development is significant for enhancing regional connectivity and trade.

• The terminal aims to improve connectivity in Assam and boost trilateral trade with Bhutan and Bangladesh.
• Laid at a cost of Rs 82 crore, the foundation stone was established in February 2021.
• It has the potential to lower transportation costs and provide an eco-friendly alternative for cargo transportation via the Brahmaputra.
• By 2027, the terminal is anticipated to manage a cargo capacity of 1 million tonnes per annum.

Additional Details

• Inland Waterways Authority of India: This is a statutory body constituted under the Inland Waterways Authority of India Act (IWAI), 1985, aimed at the development and maintenance of IWT infrastructure.
• This Authority operates five regional offices located in Guwahati (Assam), Patna (Bihar), Kochi (Kerala), Bhubaneswar (Odisha), and Kolkata (West Bengal), with its headquarters in Noida, Uttar Pradesh.

The establishment of the Inland Water Transport Terminal is a crucial step towards enhancing trade and connectivity in the region, promising economic benefits and fostering international relations through improved waterways.

GS2/International Relations

Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC)

Recently, oil flow through the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) has been significantly reduced by 30-40% due to a Ukrainian drone attack on a pumping station. This pipeline is a crucial route for supplying oil from Kazakhstan to international markets.

• The CPC pipeline is a major conduit for oil exports from Kazakhstan.
• It has experienced a notable reduction in oil flow following geopolitical tensions.

Additional Details

• Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC): The CPC is a substantial investment project, costing approximately $2.6 billion, and consists of a 935-mile crude oil pipeline.
• Route: The pipeline transports oil from the Tengiz oil field in Kazakhstan to the Russian Black Sea port of Novorossiysk.
• History: Construction began in 1999, and the pipeline was commissioned in 2001. A significant expansion project costing $5.1 billion was completed in 2018.
• Significance: The CPC is a pivotal East-West pipeline, facilitating the transport of oil from the Caspian Sea region to global markets and accounts for two-thirds of Kazakhstan's oil exports.
• Capacity: The pipeline has a total capacity of 1.4 million barrels per day, representing 3% of global seaborne oil trade.

This recent disruption in oil flow highlights the vulnerability of energy supply routes to geopolitical events, emphasizing the importance of the CPC in the global oil market.

GS3/Environment

Delhi Earthquake

A magnitude 4 earthquake struck New Delhi with its epicenter near Dhaula Kuan. The quake was shallow, occurring at a depth of 5 km, which highlights Delhi’s seismic vulnerability due to its location in Zone IV of India’s earthquake hazard map.

• The earthquake's magnitude was 4.
• Epicenter located near Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi.
• Shallow depth of 5 km raises concern over seismic activity.
• Delhi is situated in Zone IV, indicating high seismic risk.

Additional Details

• Tectonic Activity along the Delhi-Hardwar Ridge: Delhi is positioned on an active seismic fault. The continuous collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates builds tectonic stress, leading to earthquakes when this stress is released.
• Groundwater Extraction as a Seismic Trigger: Excessive groundwater extraction alters rock pressure, which can potentially induce fault movements.
• Anthropogenic (Human-Induced) Activity: Urbanization, metro construction, and large-scale infrastructure projects modify subsurface stress. Vibrations from construction activities can contribute to localized seismic instability.
• About the Aravalli-Delhi Fold Belt: This significant geological formation extends from southern Rajasthan to Haryana and Delhi. It consists of ancient folded rock formations that have transformed over millions of years. The region has several pre-existing faults, meaning seismic activity can occur without direct tectonic subduction. Although historically more active, tectonic movements in the belt have slowed over time, leading to earthquakes caused by fault reactivation and local stress accumulation rather than large-scale tectonic shifts.

Himalayan earthquakes are primarily caused by the subduction of the Indian plate beneath the Eurasian plate.

Previous Year Questions (PYQ)

• [2021]: Discuss the vulnerability of India to earthquake-related hazards, providing examples of major disasters caused by earthquakes in different parts of India over the past three decades.
• [2015]: The frequency of earthquakes appears to have increased in the Indian subcontinent; however, India's preparedness for mitigating their impact has significant gaps. Discuss various aspects.

Understanding the seismic risks associated with Delhi and the broader Indian region is critical for disaster preparedness and risk mitigation strategies.

GS2/Polity

Appointment of Gyanesh Kumar as Chief Election Commissioner - Key Changes and Controversy

Former IAS officer Gyanesh Kumar has been appointed as the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India, succeeding Rajiv Kumar. This appointment was made by a Selection Committee consisting of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. The process has generated controversy due to objections from opposition parties and ongoing Supreme Court cases.

• Gyanesh Kumar succeeds Rajiv Kumar as CEC of India.
• The appointment process has faced criticism and legal challenges.
• The new appointment process follows the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023.

Additional Details

• Previous System of Appointment: The Election Commission of India (ECI) previously operated without a formal law for appointing the CEC and Election Commissioners (ECs). The CEC was traditionally the senior-most EC appointed by the President based on the Prime Minister's advice.
• New Appointment Process: The 2023 Act introduces a two-stage process involving a Search Committee, led by the Law Minister, which shortlists candidates, followed by a Selection Committee that finalizes the candidate for appointment.
• Eligibility Criteria: Candidates must be former Secretaries to the Government of India, possessing integrity and experience in election management, and they are not eligible for reappointment. The total tenure is capped at six years.
• LoP’s Dissent: The Leader of Opposition has raised concerns, requesting a delay in the appointment until the Supreme Court resolves ongoing petitions regarding the selection process.
• Legal Challenges: The Supreme Court is set to hear a case concerning the exclusion of the Chief Justice of India from the Selection Committee, which was previously mandated by a ruling in March 2023.

The appointment of Gyanesh Kumar as CEC represents the first application of the new 2023 Act. However, with a Supreme Court ruling pending, the issues surrounding the independence and transparency of the Election Commission continue to be debated.

GS3/Defence & Security

Exercise Dharma Guardian

India and Japan are poised to initiate the 6th edition of the Dharma Guardian military exercise at Mount Fuji, highlighting their ongoing defense collaboration.

• The exercise will take place from February 25 to March 9, 2025.
• 120 Indian soldiers from the Madras Regiment will participate, emphasizing urban warfare and counter-terrorism operations.

Additional Details

• About the Exercise: This is an annual joint military exercise between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), established in 2018.
• Key Features:
  • Joint Counter-Terrorism Training: Focused on urban and semi-desert warfare.
  • Advanced Tactical Drills: Includes close-quarters combat, live fire, and battlefield medical evacuation.
  • 48-hour Validation Exercise: Tests real-time combat coordination.
  • Cultural and Professional Exchange: Aims to strengthen military ties between India and Japan.
• Significance:
  • Strengthens Strategic Ties: Enhances defense cooperation under the Indo-Pacific framework.
  • Enhances Regional Security: Aligns with the vision of the Quad nations (India, Japan, US, Australia).
  • Boosts Defence Technology Collaboration: Involves co-development of advanced systems like the Unicorn Stealth Antenna System.
  • Improves Military Readiness: Supports joint UN peacekeeping and disaster response operations.

This exercise not only signifies strong military cooperation between India and Japan but also plays a crucial role in enhancing regional security and military readiness in the Indo-Pacific region.