UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 23rd February 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/Polity

Regulating Digital Content - Need for a New Legal Framework

Why in News?

The Indian government is currently exploring the necessity of establishing a new legal framework to effectively regulate digital platforms. This initiative is driven by rising concerns over violent and obscene content, particularly highlighted by the recent Ranveer Allahbadia controversy, alongside broader societal apprehensions regarding the misuse of the right to freedom of expression.

Key Takeaways

• The government is assessing public demand for stricter laws against harmful digital content.
• There is an ongoing review of existing legal frameworks related to digital content regulation.
• Challenges exist in the current regulatory environment, particularly concerning enforcement and compliance.

Additional Details

• Concerns Over Digital Content Regulation: The Union Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Ministry has noted that various authorities, including the Supreme Court and multiple High Courts, have raised alarms over harmful online content. For instance, the Supreme Court granted Ranveer Allahbadia protection from arrest but criticized his remarks.
• Existing Legal Framework:The I&B Ministry is reviewing current statutory provisions, which include:
  • The Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code (IT Rules, 2021): These guidelines mandate self-regulation and content classification.
  • Indecent Representation of Women Act, 1986: This act prohibits the obscene depiction of women.
  • Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023: This contains provisions against obscene content.
  • Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act: This act aims to protect children from harmful content.
  • Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000: This addresses the publication of obscene or pornographic materials.
• The Ministry has directed social media and OTT platforms to adhere to the Code of Ethics outlined in the IT Rules 2021 and to implement access controls to prevent children from accessing inappropriate content.

The government's response is characterized by a call for amendments to existing laws, as the Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology has requested clarification on necessary reforms. The Ministry of Electronics and IT is also evaluating the effectiveness of current regulations and proposing amendments to the IT Act, 2000.

However, challenges remain in regulating digital content effectively. For instance, the IT Rules, 2021, which require a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism, have faced legal challenges in various High Courts, leading to stays on their enforcement.

The Role of YouTube and Social Media Intermediaries: These platforms are currently regulated under existing rules but are not held liable for user-generated content unless it violates specific government directives. This limitation has raised concerns about accountability and regulation in the increasingly complex landscape of digital media.

In conclusion, the ongoing debate over digital content regulation underscores the tension between ensuring freedom of expression and the need for responsible content dissemination. The government's active review of laws aims to create a more structured and enforceable legal framework for digital platforms, with judicial scrutiny and public discourse essential for shaping the future of digital content regulation in India.

GS1/Geography

Gulf of Tonkin

Why in News?

Recently, the foreign ministry of Vietnam released a map that delineates its baseline claims in the Gulf of Tonkin, highlighting the ongoing territorial disputes in the region.

Key Takeaways

• The Gulf of Tonkin is known as "Beibu Gulf" in Chinese and "Bac Bo Gulf" in Vietnamese.
• This crescent-shaped, shallow, semi-enclosed water body is located off the northern coasts of Vietnam and South China.
• It serves as a significant area for maritime navigation and resource exploration.

Additional Details

• Geographical Location: The Gulf of Tonkin is situated in the northwestern part of the South China Sea, bordered by:
  • The northern coastline of Vietnam to the west and northwest.
  • China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region to the north.
  • The Leizhou Peninsula and Hainan Island to the east.
• The Gulf connects to the South China Sea through its mouth in the south and to the Hainan Strait in the northeast.
• Major Rivers: The Red River is the primary river that discharges into the Gulf of Tonkin, along with several smaller rivers from the northern and western coastal areas.
• Major Ports: Key ports in Northern Vietnam include Haiphong and Ben Thuy, while Beihai (Pakhoi) is the main port in China.

This development emphasizes the strategic importance of the Gulf of Tonkin and its implications for international relations and regional stability.

GS2/International Relations

India Assumes Chairmanship of Bay of Bengal Inter-Governmental Organisation

Why in News?

India has recently taken over the chairmanship of the Bay of Bengal Inter-Governmental Organisation (BOB-IGO) from Bangladesh during the 13th Governing Council Meeting held in Malé, Maldives. This transition signifies India's growing influence and commitment to enhancing regional cooperation in fisheries management.

Key Takeaways

• India has assumed the chairmanship of BOB-IGO from Bangladesh.
• The meeting took place in Malé, Maldives.
• BOB-IGO was established in 2003 to support small-scale fisheries in the Bay of Bengal region.

Additional Details

• About BOB-IGO: This organisation was established to aid member countries in improving the livelihoods and quality of life for small-scale and artisanal fisherfolk in the Bay of Bengal. It evolved from the Bay of Bengal Programme initiated by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in 1979.
• Member Countries: The current members include Bangladesh, India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka, along with cooperating non-contracting parties such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Thailand.
• Objectives: The primary goals of BOB-IGO include raising awareness about marine fisheries management, enhancing skills through training and technology transfer, establishing regional information networks, and promoting women’s participation in the fisheries value chain.

In conclusion, the leadership transition at BOB-IGO highlights India's pivotal role in regional fisheries management and the ongoing efforts to support sustainable practices and livelihoods for fisherfolk in the Bay of Bengal.

GS3/Science and Technology

Advancements in Perovskite Nanocrystals

Why in News?

Researchers at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS) in Bengaluru have recently developed a groundbreaking technique to reduce anion migration in CsPbX₃ perovskite nanocrystals. This development is significant for enhancing the performance and stability of perovskite materials in various applications.

Key Takeaways

• Innovative method to minimize anion migration in perovskite nanocrystals.
• Perovskite materials exhibit a diverse range of properties due to compositional flexibility.
• Wide applications in optoelectronics, particularly in solar cells and LEDs.

Additional Details

• Perovskite Nanocrystal: This material shares a crystal structure with the mineral calcium titanium oxide (CaTiO₃). It has a general chemical formula of ABX₃, where 'A' and 'B' are cations and 'X' is an anion.
• Perovskite structures can be formed by combining a large number of different elements, leading to a broad spectrum of physical, optical, and electrical characteristics, including insulating, semiconducting, metallic, and superconducting properties.
• Applications include photovoltaic solar cells, photodetectors, and light-emitting devices. Perovskite LEDs are particularly notable for their potential to merge the benefits of OLEDs and QLEDs, making them a promising technology for next-generation lighting.

This novel approach not only enhances the stability of perovskite nanocrystals but also opens up new avenues for their application in advanced optoelectronic devices, potentially transforming the landscape of lighting technology and renewable energy sources.

GS3/Environment

Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR)

Why in News?

The Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR) is set to welcome back a tiger that had previously left its habitat for the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary. This marks a significant event in wildlife management efforts within Jharkhand.

Key Takeaways

• The PTR is located in the Chhota Nagpur plateau region.
• It is part of the Betla National Park and was one of the first nine tiger reserves established under 'Project Tiger'.
• The PTR is notable for being the first reserve globally to conduct a tiger census using pugmark counting in 1932.
• Three rivers—North Koyal, Auranga, and Burha—flow through the reserve, with Burha being the only perennial river.
• The area is mineral-rich, containing resources such as bauxite and coal.

Additional Details

• Vegetation: The reserve is primarily dominated by Northern Tropical Dry Deciduous forests, particularly Sal Forests, along with smaller areas of Northern Tropical Moist Deciduous forests.
• Flora: Notable plant species include Shorea robusta, Acacia catechu, Madhuca indica, Terminalia tomentosa, Butea monosperma, Pterocarpus marsupium, Anogeisus latifolia, and Indigofera pulchela.
• Fauna: The PTR is home to several keystone species, including the Tiger, Asiatic Elephant, Leopard, Grey wolf, Wild dog, Gaur, Sloth bear, and the four-horned antelope.

This return of the tiger to its original habitat is a vital step in conservation efforts and highlights the importance of maintaining wildlife corridors and habitats for the sustainability of species in the region.

GS2/Polity

Controversy around Three-Language Policy

Why in News?

The Union Government has withheld ₹2,152 crore in Samagra Shiksha funds from Tamil Nadu due to the state's refusal to join the PM SHRI scheme, which is linked to the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. While Tamil Nadu is open to participating in the scheme, it strongly opposes the NEP's three-language formula, favoring its established two-language policy. The Centre insists on compliance, citing constitutional alignment, while the Tamil Nadu government labels this as "blackmail" and questions the constitutional basis for such mandates.

Key Takeaways

• The NEP 2020 retains the three-language formula introduced in 1968 but offers more flexibility.
• Tamil Nadu has a historical resistance to the imposition of Hindi in language education.
• Recent political dynamics have led to strong opposition against the three-language policy in Tamil Nadu.

Additional Details

• Three-Language Formula: NEP 2020 allows states to choose three languages, ensuring at least two are native to India, thus non-Hindi-speaking states are not compelled to adopt Hindi.
• Emphasis on Bilingual Education: The policy encourages teaching in the home language/mother tongue alongside English, aiming to enhance bilingual education.
• Role of Sanskrit: Sanskrit is highlighted as an optional language within the three-language framework, emphasizing its importance in the education system.
• Tamil Nadu's opposition to Hindi has historical roots, with significant protests occurring in 1937 and 1965 against the mandatory teaching of Hindi.
• The state government, led by the DMK, has consistently rejected changes to the two-language policy established since the late 1960s.
• Recent developments include the removal of mandatory Hindi learning from the NEP draft in 2019 following strong resistance from Tamil Nadu.
• Concerns over the imposition of Hindi are exacerbated by government actions promoting Hindi education in non-Hindi-speaking states without similar support for South Indian languages.

A constructive dialogue between the Centre and Tamil Nadu is essential to resolve the ongoing controversy. The two-language policy has proven effective in improving educational outcomes in Tamil Nadu, and disagreements over the three-language policy should not hinder essential funding for educational initiatives like Samagra Shiksha.

GS3/Economy

Rising Servicification of Manufacturing Makes Wage Growth Comparisons Tough

Why in News?

The Economic Survey 2024-25 has raised concerns regarding the disparity between corporate profits and wage growth, indicating that while profits have surged, wage increases have not kept pace. The president of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) contends that businesses are actively adjusting salaries, but warns that recent wage trends may not be comparable to historical data due to the rising trend of servicification within manufacturing.

Key Takeaways

• Servicification refers to the merging of services with traditional manufacturing processes.
• Corporate profits have increased significantly, but wage growth has lagged behind.
• Employment patterns are changing as firms outsource non-core functions to service providers.

Additional Details

• Servicification of Manufacturing: This trend involves manufacturers providing additional services such as maintenance, consulting, and digital solutions alongside traditional products. This shift is influenced by consumer demand, technological advancements, and competitive pressures.
• Levels of Servicification:
  • Production Stage: Utilization of automation, AI, and data analytics to improve efficiency.
  • Product Enhancement: Offering services like installation, maintenance, and software updates with products.
  • Business Model Transformation: Transitioning from product sales to solution offerings, such as subscription-based or leasing models.
• Benefits of Servicification:
  • Increased Revenue: Creates new income sources beyond direct product sales.
  • Customer Retention: Fosters loyalty through continued engagement with services.
  • Differentiation: Offers a competitive advantage in saturated markets.
  • Sustainability: Promotes practices like remanufacturing and extending product lifecycles.
• Challenges of Servicification:
  • High Initial Investment: Demands significant investment in technology and skill development.
  • Complexity in Execution: Balancing manufacturing and service operations can be difficult.
  • Workforce Transformation: Requires employees to acquire new skills in data analysis and customer service.
  • Market Adaptation: Customers may initially resist paying for additional services.

The Economic Survey emphasizes that despite rising corporate profits, wage growth has not kept up, which poses a risk to consumer demand and overall economic growth. It highlights that while revenue for a significant number of companies has grown, the corresponding employment increase remains minimal. The CII president argues that businesses are adjusting wages based on factors like inflation, but traditional comparisons may be skewed because of the ongoing servicification trend, leading to employment structures that no longer align with historical wage metrics. Ultimately, a balance between profitability and wage growth is necessary to sustain consumer demand and ensure long-term economic expansion.

GS1/Indian Society

Asperger’s Syndrome

Why in News?

On the occasion of International Asperger’s Day, the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (NIEPID) held various programs aimed at raising awareness and promoting inclusivity for individuals diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome.

Key Takeaways

• Asperger's Syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder that falls under the autism spectrum.
• It is characterized by difficulties in social communication, average or above-average intelligence, and no significant language delay.

Additional Details

• Symptoms:Symptoms usually appear in early childhood and can continue into adulthood, varying in severity. Common symptoms include:
  • Social difficulties
  • Repetitive behaviors
  • Communication challenges
  • Motor coordination difficulties
• Communication Behaviors: Individuals may engage in one-sided, lengthy conversations without recognizing if the listener is engaged or trying to change the subject. They may also exhibit unusual nonverbal communication, such as limited eye contact, few facial expressions, and awkward body language.
• Causes: The exact causes of Asperger’s Syndrome remain unknown to doctors and researchers.
• Treatment: While there is no cure for the core symptoms of Asperger’s Syndrome, early specialized interventions, focusing on behavior management and social skills training, can be beneficial for most children.

The initiatives organized on International Asperger’s Day highlight the importance of understanding and supporting individuals with Asperger's Syndrome, promoting a more inclusive society.

GS3/Economy

Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) Overview

Why in News?

Recently, India's Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) has shown a positive trend, rising for the first time in three quarters, indicating a potential recovery in business activity.

Key Takeaways

• The PMI is a crucial indicator of business activity in both the manufacturing and services sectors.
• It is derived from a survey that assesses changes in purchasing managers' perceptions regarding key business variables.

Additional Details

• Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI): This index serves as a barometer for market conditions, helping to determine if the economy is expanding, contracting, or remaining stable.
• There are two main types of PMI:
  • Manufacturing PMI: Focuses on the manufacturing sector.
  • Services PMI: Concentrates on the services sector.
• How is Manufacturing PMI calculated?This index is derived from surveys sent to a wide range of companies, asking fact-based questions related to five key variables:
  • New orders
  • Output
  • Employment
  • Suppliers' delivery times
  • Stock of items purchased
• The surveys are conducted on a monthly basis, with a PMI number greater than 50 indicating expansion in business activity, while a number below 50 signifies contraction.
• The rate of expansion is assessed based on the difference from the mid-point of 50 and previous month's data.
• In India, the PMI data is released by S&P Global, a leading provider of financial information and analytics.

The recent rise in the PMI is a positive signal for the Indian economy, suggesting a potential upswing in business confidence and activity following a period of contraction.

GS3/Environment

Bhavani River

Why in News?

The public health and preventive medicines department of Tamil Nadu has reported that the water from the Bhavani River at Palaiyur village in Jadayampalayam village panchayat is unsafe for drinking purposes.

Key Takeaways

• The Bhavani River is a major tributary of the Cauvery River.
• It flows through three districts of Tamil Nadu: Nilgiris, Coimbatore, and Erode.
• The river originates in the upper regions of the Nilgiris in the Western Ghats.

Additional Details

• Geography: The Bhavani River travels a distance of 185 km before it confluences with the Cauvery River at Bhavani. It has a drainage basin covering an area of 6,200 square kilometers, with approximately 87% in Tamil Nadu, 9% in Kerala, and 4% in other regions.
• Agricultural Importance: About 90% of the water from the Bhavani River is utilized for agricultural purposes.
• Tributaries: The largest tributaries of the Bhavani River include the West and East Varagar, which originate from the Nilgiris.
• Cultural Significance: The Bhavani Sangameshwarar Temple is located at the confluence of the Bhavani and Cauvery Rivers, making it a significant pilgrimage center.
• Infrastructure: The Bhavanisagar Dam, one of the largest earthen dams in the world, is constructed on this river.

In summary, the Bhavani River is not only crucial for irrigation and agriculture in Tamil Nadu but also holds cultural and environmental significance. The recent findings regarding water safety highlight the need for monitoring and protecting this vital resource.

GS3/Environment

Extinction Filtering and Biodiversity Loss

Why in News?

Recent research highlights that human activities occurring outside of protected areas are contributing to significant biodiversity loss. The phenomenon known as extinction filtering is particularly impacting sensitive species, leading to a decline in overall biodiversity.

Key Takeaways

• Extinction filtering is the process in which species that are sensitive to human disturbance vanish, leaving behind only those capable of surviving in degraded environments.
• This process predicts that species adapted to high-disturbance habitats are more likely to endure new disturbances, such as habitat loss and fragmentation.

Additional Details

• Impact on Biodiversity: The result is a less diverse and more uniform collection of species in tropical forests, which over time undermines entire ecosystems and their resilience to environmental changes.
• The study indicates that anthropogenic extinction filtering is affecting mammals in tropical forests, where human overpopulation leads to the extinction of the most sensitive species, while more adaptable species continue to survive.
• This issue of extinction filtering is not confined to tropical forests; human activities are influencing wildlife even within protected areas worldwide.

The findings underscore the need for a broader conservation strategy beyond just establishing protected areas to effectively safeguard wildlife and combat biodiversity loss.