Daily Current Affairs- 5th December 2024

1. Polavaram Dam Project

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Economy
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Economy)

Why in News?:

• The Polavaram Dam project has recently faced setbacks due to damage to its diaphragm wall during the 2022 floods, impacting its construction timeline. Wikipedia

About Polavaram Dam Project:

• Definition/Description:
  • The Polavaram Project is an under-construction multi-purpose irrigation project on the Godavari River in Andhra Pradesh, India. It aims to facilitate irrigation, generate hydroelectric power, and supply drinking water. Wikipedia
• Background:
  • Conceived in 1941, the project’s foundation stone was laid in 1980. It was declared a national project under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014. The project has faced delays due to environmental concerns, inter-state disputes, and funding issues.
• Key Aspects:
  • Irrigation: Designed to irrigate approximately 2.32 million acres across multiple districts in Andhra Pradesh.
  • Hydropower Generation: Plans include a 960 MW capacity hydroelectric plant.
  • Water Supply: Aims to provide drinking water to 540 villages and industrial water to the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant.
  • Flood Control: Expected to mitigate flooding in the Godavari basin.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • The project received environmental clearance in 2005. It is governed by the Ministry of Water Resources and monitored by the Polavaram Project Authority.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Environmental Concerns: Potential submergence of forest areas and displacement of tribal populations.
  • Inter-State Disputes: Neighboring states like Odisha and Chhattisgarh have raised concerns about submergence and displacement.
  • Construction Delays: Damage to the diaphragm wall during floods has hindered progress.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • As a significant component of India’s National River Linking Project, Polavaram is crucial for water resource management. Its success is vital for regional development and inter-state water cooperation.
• Future Prospects:
  • Upon completion, the project is expected to boost agriculture, provide reliable water supply, and generate renewable energy, contributing to the socio-economic development of Andhra Pradesh.

Source: The Hindu

2. Do Not Write Off Trump’s America

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: International Relations
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (IR)

Why in News?:

• The article discusses the enduring influence of Donald Trump on American politics, even as legal battles and controversies surround his presidential legacy.
  Source: The Hindu

About Trump’s America:

• Definition/Description:
  • Refers to the political ideologies, policies, and socio-economic shifts during Donald Trump’s presidency (2017-2021), marked by a focus on “America First,” trade protectionism, and isolationist foreign policies.
• Background:
  • Trump’s presidency significantly impacted U.S. domestic and international politics, polarizing the nation on issues such as immigration, trade, and climate change.
  • The Capitol Riots in January 2021 and Trump’s continued influence within the Republican Party highlight the deep political divisions in the U.S.
• Key Aspects:
  • Foreign Policy: “America First” doctrine, withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord, and the U.S.-China trade war.
  • Economic Policies: Tax cuts for corporations, renegotiation of NAFTA (replaced by USMCA).
  • Social Policies: Tougher immigration laws and rhetoric that deepened racial and ethnic divides.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Legal troubles, including allegations related to election interference and tax evasion, threaten Trump’s political future.
  • Persistent influence on Republican Party dynamics and upcoming elections.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Trump’s policies reshaped U.S.-India relations, focusing on defense cooperation and economic ties.
  • His stance on China aligns with India’s concerns, especially regarding Indo-Pacific security.
• Future Prospects:
  • Trump’s influence could shape the 2024 U.S. presidential elections, impacting global geopolitics, trade, and multilateral relations.

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3. Economic Costs of Ban on Plastic Must Be Seen With Its Ill-Effects on Health

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Environment
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Environment)

Why in News?:

• The article examines the economic implications of plastic bans while highlighting their necessity due to the severe environmental and health impacts of plastic pollution.
  Source: The Hindu

About Plastic Pollution and Its Bans:

• Definition/Description:
  • Plastic pollution refers to the accumulation of plastic waste in the environment, causing ecological, economic, and health challenges.
• Background:
  • Single-use plastics contribute significantly to pollution. India implemented a nationwide ban on certain single-use plastics in 2022 as part of its Swachh Bharat Mission.
• Key Aspects:
  • Health Impacts: Microplastics entering the food chain can harm human health, including endocrine disruption and carcinogenic risks.
  • Environmental Costs: Plastic contributes to marine pollution, harming aquatic biodiversity.
  • Economic Costs: Alternatives to plastic are costlier, and industries face challenges in transitioning to sustainable packaging.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016.
  • Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for managing post-consumer plastic waste.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Inadequate infrastructure for recycling and waste segregation.
  • Resistance from the plastic manufacturing industry due to economic constraints.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • India ranks among the top plastic polluters.
  • Globally, initiatives like the UN’s Plastic Treaty aim to address this crisis.
• Future Prospects:
  • Increased investment in biodegradable alternatives and innovation in waste management systems.

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4. Cash Transfer Schemes for Women as New Poll Plank

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Governance
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (Governance)

Why in News?:

• Several states in India are using direct cash transfer schemes targeted at women as a key electoral promise ahead of upcoming elections.
  Source: The Hindu

About Cash Transfer Schemes:

• Definition/Description:
  • Direct cash transfer schemes involve transferring money directly to beneficiaries, ensuring minimal leakage and maximum efficiency.
• Background:
  • Notable schemes like PM Jan Dhan Yojana and DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer) have proven effective in reducing poverty and empowering women.
• Key Aspects:
  • Women Empowerment: Financial independence leads to better decision-making within households.
  • Poverty Alleviation: Provides a safety net for marginalized groups.
  • Economic Inclusion: Encourages participation in formal banking systems.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Guided by the JAM (Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile) Trinity.
  • State-level schemes like Rajasthan’s Mukhya Mantri Rajshree Yojana and Tamil Nadu’s Magalir Urimai Thogai.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Risk of financial dependence on government subsidies.
  • Potential misuse for electoral gains rather than sustainable development.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Countries like Brazil (Bolsa Família) and the U.S. have similar welfare programs.
  • In India, the focus on empowering women aligns with SDG goals, especially SDG 5 (Gender Equality).
• Future Prospects:
  • A move toward universal basic income or more targeted welfare schemes for long-term socio-economic improvement.

5. India’s Strategic Focus on West Africa

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: International Relations
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (IR)

Why in News?:

• India is intensifying its diplomatic and economic engagements with West African nations, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties and explore new avenues for cooperation. Source: The Hindu

About India’s Engagement with West Africa:

• Definition/Description:
  • West Africa comprises 16 countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal, known for their rich natural resources and strategic maritime positions.
• Background:
  • Historically, India has maintained cordial relations with West African nations, focusing on trade, capacity building, and cultural exchanges.
  • Initiatives like the India-Africa Forum Summit have institutionalized these partnerships.
• Key Aspects:
  • Trade Relations: Bilateral trade has seen significant growth, with India importing oil, gas, and minerals, and exporting pharmaceuticals, textiles, and machinery.
  • Energy Cooperation: Nigeria is a key supplier of crude oil to India, contributing to India’s energy security.
  • Development Assistance: India has extended lines of credit for infrastructure projects and offers scholarships under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program.
  • Security Collaboration: Joint efforts in combating piracy in the Gulf of Guinea and addressing terrorism threats.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Bilateral agreements on trade, investment protection, and double taxation avoidance have been established to facilitate cooperation.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Competition: China’s extensive investments in West Africa pose challenges to India’s influence.
  • Political Instability: Some West African nations face political unrest, affecting bilateral projects.
  • Logistical Hurdles: Infrastructure deficits hinder seamless trade and connectivity.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Strengthening ties with West Africa aligns with India’s broader Africa policy, aiming to secure energy resources and counterbalance China’s presence.
• Future Prospects:
  • Potential for collaboration in renewable energy, digital technology, and healthcare sectors.
  • Enhancing people-to-people connections through cultural exchanges and educational partnerships.

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6. Is the Caste Census a Useful Exercise?

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Governance
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (Governance)

Why in News?:

• The Indian government is deliberating the implementation of a caste-based census to gather comprehensive data on various social groups. Source: The Hindu

About the Caste Census:

• Definition/Description:
  • A caste census involves systematically collecting data on the caste affiliations of the population to inform social and economic policies.
• Background:
  • The last comprehensive caste census in India was conducted in 1931.
  • The Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) of 2011 collected caste data, but its findings were not fully published.
• Key Aspects:
  • Policy Formulation: Accurate caste data can aid in designing targeted welfare schemes and affirmative action policies.
  • Resource Allocation: Helps in equitable distribution of resources among various social groups.
  • Social Justice: Facilitates identification of marginalized communities requiring government support.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • The Census Act of 1948 governs the conduct of censuses in India.
  • Decisions regarding the inclusion of caste data are made by the central government.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Data Accuracy: Ensuring precise data collection across diverse and vast populations is challenging.
  • Political Sensitivity: Caste-related data can lead to political mobilization and potential social unrest.
  • Privacy Concerns: Collecting sensitive information raises issues about individual privacy.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • India’s complex caste system necessitates detailed data for effective governance and social justice.
  • Comparatively, countries like the USA collect racial data to address inequalities.
• Future Prospects:
  • A comprehensive caste census could lead to more inclusive policies and better representation of marginalized groups.
  • However, it requires careful implementation to avoid exacerbating social divisions.

7. India Backs UN Resolution Calling for Israel’s Exit

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: International Relations
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (IR)

Why in News?:

• India voted in favor of a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution demanding Israel’s withdrawal from Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem. Economic Times

About India’s Position on the Israel-Palestine Conflict:

• Definition/Description:
  • India’s stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict has traditionally been one of support for a two-state solution, advocating for peaceful coexistence between Israel and a sovereign Palestinian state.
• Background:
  • Historically, India has maintained a balanced approach, recognizing Israel’s right to exist while supporting Palestinian self-determination.
  • India established full diplomatic relations with Israel in 1992 and has since developed strong bilateral ties.
  • Simultaneously, India has consistently supported Palestinian causes in international forums.
• Key Aspects:
  • Diplomatic Relations: India engages with both Israel and Palestine, maintaining embassies in Tel Aviv and Ramallah.
  • Economic Ties: India-Israel relations have expanded in areas like defense, agriculture, and technology.
  • International Support: India has historically voted in favor of Palestinian-related resolutions at the UN, reflecting its commitment to Palestinian rights.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • India’s foreign policy is guided by principles of non-alignment, peaceful coexistence, and support for UN resolutions upholding international law.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Balancing Act: Navigating relations with Israel and Palestine without alienating either party.
  • Geopolitical Pressures: Managing international expectations, especially from allies with vested interests in the Middle East.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • India’s vote aligns with its historical support for Palestinian self-determination.
  • The decision reflects India’s commitment to international law and UN resolutions.
• Future Prospects:
  • India is likely to continue advocating for a peaceful resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, supporting dialogue and a two-state solution.

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8. RS Passes Boilers Bill for Safety at Factories

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Governance
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (Governance)

Why in News?:

• The Rajya Sabha has approved the Boilers Bill, 2024, aiming to modernize boiler safety regulations and enhance worker safety in factories. Devdiscourse

About the Boilers Bill, 2024:

• Definition/Description:
  • The Boilers Bill, 2024, seeks to replace the century-old Boilers Act, 1923, introducing updated safety standards and regulatory measures for boiler operations in industries.
• Background:
  • The Boilers Act, 1923, was enacted to ensure the safety of boilers and prevent accidents.
  • Over time, advancements in technology and industrial practices necessitated a comprehensive update to the existing law.
• Key Aspects:
  • Decriminalization: The bill decriminalizes certain offenses, converting fines into penalties for minor violations to facilitate ease of doing business.
  • Safety Provisions: It mandates the employment of qualified personnel for boiler operations and repairs, ensuring adherence to safety standards.
  • Simplified Compliance: The bill streamlines procedures for boiler registration and certification, reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • The Boilers Bill, 2024, aligns with the Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Conditions Code, 2020, aiming for cohesive industrial safety regulations.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Implementation: Ensuring that industries, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), comply with the new safety standards.
  • Training: Providing adequate training to personnel to meet the qualifications mandated by the bill.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Modernizing boiler regulations brings India in line with international safety standards, promoting worker safety and industrial efficiency.
• Future Prospects:
  • The bill is expected to reduce boiler-related accidents, enhance worker safety, and improve the ease of doing business by simplifying compliance requirements.

9. At Railways Bill Discussion, MPs Raise Concern Over Privatisation, Safety, and Ticket Charges

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Governance
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (Governance)

Why in News?:

• During the parliamentary discussion on the Railways Bill, Members of Parliament expressed concerns regarding the potential impacts of privatisation on safety standards and fare structures. Source: The Hindu

About the Railways Bill:

• Definition/Description:
  • The Railways Bill aims to introduce reforms in the railway sector, including provisions for increased private sector participation, modernization of infrastructure, and enhancement of service quality.
• Background:
  • India’s railway network, one of the largest globally, has traditionally been state-operated.
  • In recent years, there has been a push towards involving private entities to improve efficiency and passenger services.
• Key Aspects:
  • Privatisation Initiatives: Allowing private operators to run passenger trains on select routes.
  • Safety Measures: Implementing advanced signaling systems and upgrading tracks to enhance safety.
  • Fare Regulation: Establishing frameworks to ensure fair ticket pricing amidst private participation.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • The Bill proposes amendments to existing railway laws to facilitate private sector involvement and outlines the roles of regulatory bodies in overseeing operations.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Safety Concerns: Ensuring that privatisation does not compromise safety standards.
  • Fare Hikes: Preventing unreasonable increases in ticket prices due to profit motives.
  • Operational Coordination: Maintaining seamless integration between private operators and the existing railway system.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Global Examples: Countries like the UK have experienced mixed outcomes with railway privatisation, facing challenges related to service quality and fare control.
  • Indian Scenario: Balancing the benefits of private investment with the need to provide affordable and safe transportation to the public.
• Future Prospects:
  • Infrastructure Development: Potential for accelerated modernization of railway infrastructure through private investments.
  • Service Quality: Improved passenger amenities and punctuality with competitive operations.
  • Regulatory Oversight: Strengthening regulatory mechanisms to monitor safety and fare structures effectively.

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10. Top Court Directs Five States to Provide Facts and Figures on Illegal Sand-Mining

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Environment
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Environment)

Why in News?:

• The Supreme Court has ordered five states to submit detailed reports on the extent and impact of illegal sand mining activities within their jurisdictions. Source: The Hindu

About Illegal Sand Mining:

• Definition/Description:
  • Illegal sand mining refers to the unauthorized extraction of sand from rivers, beaches, and other natural sources, leading to environmental degradation and ecological imbalances.
• Background:
  • Sand is a crucial component in construction, leading to high demand.
  • Unregulated mining has resulted in adverse environmental impacts, prompting legal interventions and the need for sustainable practices.
• Key Aspects:
  • Environmental Impact: Erosion of riverbanks, loss of aquatic habitats, and lowering of groundwater levels.
  • Economic Factors: The construction industry’s reliance on sand creates lucrative opportunities for illegal operations.
  • Regulatory Challenges: Difficulty in monitoring vast mining areas and enforcing existing laws.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • National Guidelines: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has issued Sustainable Sand Mining Management Guidelines to regulate extraction.
  • State Regulations: States have specific laws and task forces to monitor and control sand mining activities.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Enforcement Gaps: Inadequate implementation of regulations due to corruption and lack of resources.
  • Environmental Degradation: Continued illegal mining leads to severe ecological consequences, affecting agriculture and livelihoods.
  • Social Conflicts: Disputes arise between local communities and mining operators, sometimes leading to violence.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Global Perspective: Countries worldwide face challenges with illegal sand mining, necessitating international cooperation for sustainable management.
  • Indian Scenario: India’s rapid urbanization has escalated sand demand, intensifying illegal mining activities across various states.
• Future Prospects:
  • Technological Monitoring: Utilizing satellite imagery and drones for real-time surveillance of mining activities.
  • Community Involvement: Engaging local populations in monitoring and reporting illegal operations.
  • Policy Reforms: Strengthening legal frameworks and ensuring strict penalties to deter illegal mining.

11. After Anomaly Alert, ISRO Sets PROBA-3 Launch for Today

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Science and Technology
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS3 (Science and Technology)

Why in News?:

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) rescheduled the launch of the European Space Agency’s (ESA) PROBA-3 mission after detecting an anomaly, with the new launch set for today. Source: Moneycontrol

About the PROBA-3 Mission:

• Definition/Description:
  • PROBA-3 (Project for On-Board Autonomy) is an ESA mission comprising two satellites designed to demonstrate precise formation flying and study the Sun’s corona by creating artificial solar eclipses.
• Background:
  • Formation flying involves multiple satellites maintaining specific relative positions, enabling coordinated observations.
  • The mission aims to observe the Sun’s corona, the outermost part of its atmosphere, which is crucial for understanding solar activity and space weather.
• Key Aspects:
  • Mission Components: Two satellites—the Coronagraph Spacecraft (CSC) and the Occulter Spacecraft (OSC)—will fly in formation, with the OSC blocking the Sun’s light to allow the CSC to observe the corona.
  • Technological Demonstration: The mission will test technologies for precise control and positioning of multiple satellites, paving the way for future formation-flying missions.
  • Scientific Goals: Studying the Sun’s corona to gain insights into solar winds and coronal mass ejections, which can impact Earth’s space environment.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • The mission is a collaboration between ESA and ISRO, with ISRO providing the launch vehicle under commercial arrangements.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Technical Anomalies: Pre-launch checks revealed anomalies, leading to rescheduling to ensure mission success.
  • Coordination: Managing international collaboration and integration of technologies from different agencies.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • International Collaboration: The mission exemplifies global cooperation in space exploration, combining ESA’s mission design with ISRO’s launch capabilities.
  • India’s Role: Highlights ISRO’s growing prominence as a reliable launch service provider for international missions.
• Future Prospects:
  • Advancements in Space Science: Success could lead to more complex formation-flying missions for various scientific objectives.
  • Enhanced Space Weather Prediction: Improved understanding of solar phenomena can lead to better forecasting of space weather events affecting Earth.

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12. Indo-Russian Venture to Set Up 3 Depots for Vande Bharat Project

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: International Relations
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS2 (International Relations)

Why in News?:

• An Indo-Russian joint venture, Kinet Railway Solutions, plans to establish three depots for the maintenance of Vande Bharat trains, enhancing the project’s infrastructure. Source: NBM&CW

About the Indo-Russian Collaboration on Vande Bharat Trains:

• Definition/Description:
  • Kinet Railway Solutions is a joint venture between India’s Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) and Russia’s Metrowagonmash (MWM) and Locomotive Electronic Systems (LES), focusing on manufacturing and maintaining Vande Bharat trains.
• Background:
  • Vande Bharat Express, India’s semi-high-speed train, represents a significant advancement in the country’s rail infrastructure.
  • The collaboration aims to leverage Russian expertise in train manufacturing to enhance India’s capabilities.
• Key Aspects:
  • Manufacturing Agreement: The JV is contracted to produce 120 Vande Bharat sleeper trainsets and provide maintenance for 35 years.
  • Depot Establishment: Three maintenance depots are planned to ensure efficient upkeep and operation of the trainsets.
  • Technology Transfer: The partnership facilitates the transfer of technology and expertise from Russia to India.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • The agreement aligns with India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, promoting domestic manufacturing with foreign collaboration.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Sanctions Impact: International sanctions on Russian entities may affect the JV’s operations and timelines.
  • Operational Coordination: Integrating Russian technology with Indian railway systems requires meticulous planning and execution.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Strategic Partnership: The project strengthens Indo-Russian ties, showcasing collaboration beyond defense into infrastructure development.
  • Economic Implications: Enhances India’s manufacturing sector and contributes to the modernization of its railway infrastructure.
• Future Prospects:
  • Railway Modernization: Successful implementation could lead to further collaborations, advancing India’s goal of upgrading its rail network.
  • Regional Connectivity: Improved train services can boost regional connectivity and economic growth.