Daily Current Affairs – 6th December 2024

1. UGC Draft Proposes Biannual Admissions

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• The University Grants Commission (UGC) has proposed a draft regulation to introduce biannual admissions in higher education institutions. This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and aims to make higher education more accessible and flexible for students.
• Source: The Hindu
• Link: UGC Draft Proposes Biannual Admissions

About UGC Draft Biannual Admissions:

• Definition/Description:
  • The draft regulation proposes that universities offer two admission cycles per year instead of the conventional single admission cycle. This initiative seeks to reduce delays for students unable to enroll during the single cycle.
• Background:
  • Higher education in India traditionally follows an annual admission schedule, leaving students with limited opportunities if they miss the cycle.
  • The NEP 2020 recommended increasing the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in higher education from the current 27.1% to 50% by 2035. This reform supports that goal by increasing opportunities for students.
• Key Aspects:
  • Introduction of flexibility in the academic calendar, enabling more students to enroll at convenient times.
  • Opportunity to reduce dropout rates as students can resume studies within months instead of waiting a full year.
  • Alignment with global education systems that offer multiple admissions cycles, such as the United States.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Smaller and rural institutions may struggle to adapt due to infrastructure and faculty constraints.
  • Coordination challenges in conducting entrance examinations multiple times a year.
  • Potential administrative burden on universities and regulators.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Globally, countries like the US and UK already offer rolling admission cycles, giving students greater flexibility and reducing barriers to entry.
  • For India, this reform is a step toward globalizing its higher education system and improving its international competitiveness.
• Future Prospects:
  • Could enhance GER and make education accessible to a broader demographic, including working professionals and non-traditional students.
  • Likely to increase India’s attractiveness as a destination for international students.

Source: The Hindu

2. Friction Between L-G and CM Grows in J&K

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• Increasing disputes between the Lieutenant Governor (L-G) and Chief Minister (CM) of Jammu and Kashmir have led to delays in decision-making and developmental projects, raising concerns about governance dynamics in the Union Territory.

About the L-G and CM Tensions:

• Definition/Description:
  • The Lieutenant Governor serves as the administrative head of a Union Territory, often holding significant authority over executive decisions. This role can lead to conflicts with elected governments, particularly in matters of jurisdiction.
• Background:
  • Jammu and Kashmir’s reorganization into a Union Territory after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 enhanced the role of the L-G, reducing the autonomy of the region’s elected government.
  • Similar conflicts have been observed in Delhi, where the Chief Minister has frequently clashed with the L-G over administrative control.
• Key Aspects:
  • Disputes involve delays in approvals, local governance issues, and developmental projects.
  • L-Gs are directly appointed by the President of India, whereas CMs are elected by the people, creating a dichotomy in accountability and authority.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Ambiguity in the distribution of powers between the L-G and CM under the existing legal framework.
  • Delays in developmental initiatives due to prolonged disagreements.
  • Frustration among citizens over stalled projects and policy decisions.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Globally, systems like federalism in the US allow for clear delineation of powers between state and federal governments.
  • In India, the structure of Union Territories often places centralized authority above locally elected governments, leading to friction.
• Future Prospects:
  • Institutional reforms to clearly delineate the powers of the L-G and CM can reduce conflicts.
  • Establishing mechanisms for dispute resolution and cooperative governance could enhance efficiency and public satisfaction.

Source: The Hindu

3. States and the Challenge Before the Finance Commission

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• With the upcoming recommendations of the 16th Finance Commission, states have raised concerns over the equitable distribution of financial resources, particularly post-GST and pandemic-induced fiscal stress.

About the Finance Commission and States’ Challenges:

• Definition/Description:
  • The Finance Commission is a constitutional body tasked with recommending the distribution of tax revenue between the Union and states.
• Background:
  • Historically, the Finance Commission has played a crucial role in addressing disparities among states by ensuring balanced resource allocation.
  • Post-GST implementation, states have faced a decline in their independent revenue-generating capacity.
• Key Aspects:
  • Concerns over shrinking fiscal autonomy due to increased centralization of taxes.
  • States demand greater compensation for pandemic-induced revenue losses.
  • Issues with the 15th Finance Commission’s recommendations on using 2011 population data, which disadvantaged southern states.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Rising fiscal deficits in states due to higher spending on welfare schemes.
  • Limited capacity to generate own revenue under the GST regime.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • In federal systems like the US, states enjoy greater taxation autonomy.
  • India’s central-state fiscal relations require a balance between equity and efficiency.
• Future Prospects:
  • Potential reforms in the Finance Commission’s mandate to address changing fiscal realities.
  • Introduction of new mechanisms for compensating states for revenue losses.

Source: The Hindu

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4. A Three-Nation Visit as a Foray into Summit Diplomacy

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• India’s Prime Minister recently visited three strategically significant nations, highlighting India’s growing role in global diplomacy and addressing bilateral issues.

About the Three-Nation Visit:

• Definition/Description:
  • Summit diplomacy involves direct engagement between heads of states to resolve bilateral or multilateral issues and build long-term partnerships.
• Background:
  • Previous high-level visits have focused on strengthening economic ties and enhancing defense cooperation.
  • India has emphasized a multipolar world order through strategic engagements.
• Key Aspects:
  • Economic cooperation agreements signed during the visit.
  • Focus on technology transfer and defense collaboration.
  • Strengthening people-to-people ties through cultural exchanges.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Balancing diplomatic ties amidst geopolitical tensions, such as the Ukraine war and China’s assertiveness.
  • Addressing trade imbalances with partner nations.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • India’s active participation in global forums like G20 and QUAD underscores its growing diplomatic stature.
  • Bilateral ties are critical for achieving India’s strategic goals, including economic growth and regional stability.
• Future Prospects:
  • Enhanced trade and defense cooperation expected to solidify India’s global partnerships.
  • Strengthened strategic alignment in the Indo-Pacific region.

Source: The Hindu

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5. India and China Must Engage Intensely at All Levels to Resolve Border Disputes

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• Recent talks between India and China have emphasized the need for multi-level engagement to resolve ongoing border tensions, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

About India-China Border Disputes:

• Definition/Description:
  • The India-China border dispute involves unresolved demarcation issues across three sectors: Western (Ladakh), Middle (Uttarakhand/Himachal), and Eastern (Arunachal Pradesh).
• Background:
  • Historical tensions date back to the 1962 war.
  • Recent clashes, such as in Galwan Valley (2020), have reignited concerns over Chinese aggression.
• Key Aspects:
  • Need for clear delineation of the LAC.
  • Importance of confidence-building measures (CBMs) to prevent clashes.
  • Bilateral and multilateral efforts to resolve disputes diplomatically.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • China’s assertive policies and infrastructure buildup near the border.
  • Lack of trust between the two nations, complicating negotiations.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • India’s strategic alignment with QUAD and other global alliances underscores its concerns over Chinese dominance.
  • Border stability is crucial for India’s economic and security interests.
• Future Prospects:
  • Intensified diplomatic and military engagements to reduce tensions.
  • Strengthening of India’s border infrastructure to counter challenges.

Source: The Hindu

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6. Is Israel’s War in Gaza Putting the Global Order at Peril?

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• The ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict has raised concerns about its impact on the global order, including rising geopolitical tensions and humanitarian crises.

About the Israel-Gaza Conflict:

• Definition/Description:
  • The conflict stems from decades-old tensions between Israel and Palestine over territorial rights and political sovereignty.
• Background:
  • The 1948 Arab-Israeli war laid the foundation for the current conflict.
  • Multiple peace agreements, including the Oslo Accords, have failed to resolve the issue.
• Key Aspects:
  • Impact on global oil prices due to instability in the Middle East.
  • Humanitarian crisis in Gaza due to military actions and blockades.
  • Role of global powers in mediating peace.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Escalation of violence and loss of civilian lives.
  • Polarization among global powers, complicating peace efforts.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • India has historically supported a two-state solution but maintains strong ties with Israel.
  • Middle East stability is critical for India’s energy security and diaspora interests.
• Future Prospects:
  • Increased global pressure for ceasefire agreements.
  • Long-term focus on addressing the root causes of the conflict through diplomatic measures.

Source: The Hindu

7. Is Syria’s Assad Regime in Danger?

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• Ongoing instability in Syria, fueled by internal dissent and international sanctions, has raised concerns about the survival of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

About the Assad Regime in Syria:

• Definition/Description:
  • The Assad regime has governed Syria since 1971, with Bashar al-Assad assuming power in 2000. The regime faces opposition due to allegations of authoritarianism and human rights violations.
• Background:
  • The Syrian Civil War, which began in 2011, has significantly weakened the regime.
  • International actors, including the US and Russia, have played critical roles in shaping the conflict’s trajectory.
• Key Aspects:
  • Economic collapse due to sanctions and war.
  • Ongoing insurgency by rebel groups in northern Syria.
  • Challenges in rebuilding infrastructure and governance.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Economic sanctions imposed by the US and EU, exacerbating Syria’s humanitarian crisis.
  • Reduced legitimacy due to widespread allegations of war crimes.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Stability in Syria is crucial for Middle East geopolitics.
  • India has maintained a non-interventionist stance but supports Syria’s territorial integrity.
• Future Prospects:
  • Increased international mediation efforts could lead to political reconciliation.
  • Reconstruction and foreign aid will play a vital role in Syria’s recovery.

Source: The Hindu

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8. Critical Measures: Should Film Reviews on Social Media Platforms Be Banned?

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• A debate has arisen over whether film reviews on social media platforms should be regulated or banned to curb the influence of biased or fake reviews on public perception.

About Film Reviews on Social Media:

• Definition/Description:
  • Film reviews on social media allow audiences to share opinions on movies. However, they often lead to controversies due to misinformation or targeted campaigns.
• Background:
  • With the rise of social media, platforms like YouTube and Twitter have become significant avenues for film critique.
  • Concerns have been raised over the authenticity and influence of such reviews.
• Key Aspects:
  • Impact on box office performance and the livelihood of industry professionals.
  • Role of influencers and paid reviews in shaping public opinion.
  • Lack of accountability for false or defamatory content.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Difficulty in regulating content without infringing on freedom of speech.
  • Identifying and penalizing fake or biased reviews.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Globally, countries like the US have stricter rules on paid promotions.
  • In India, self-regulatory bodies exist, but enforcement remains weak.
• Future Prospects:
  • A balanced approach involving regulation and industry-driven self-regulation could address concerns without stifling creative freedom.

Source: The Hindu

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9. PSLV-C59 Places PROBA-3 Satellites into Designated Orbit with Precision

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• The PSLV-C59 mission successfully launched PROBA-3 satellites, demonstrating India’s growing capabilities in space technology.

About the PSLV-C59 Mission:

• Definition/Description:
  • The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is India’s primary launch vehicle for placing satellites into orbit.
  • PROBA-3 is a European Space Agency mission focused on advanced solar studies.
• Background:
  • India’s PSLV has a proven track record, with over 50 successful launches since its inception.
  • Collaboration with international agencies highlights India’s role in global space exploration.
• Key Aspects:
  • Precision launch technology showcased in the mission.
  • Boost to international collaborations in space technology.
  • Advances in satellite payload and orbital deployment.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Competition from global players like SpaceX and China’s Long March rockets.
  • Need for more advanced propulsion systems for heavier payloads.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • India’s space missions are vital for applications like communication, navigation, and Earth observation.
  • Globally, space is becoming an arena for strategic competition and collaboration.
• Future Prospects:
  • Strengthening ISRO’s capabilities to compete in the global space market.
  • Development of reusable launch vehicles to reduce costs.

Source: The Hindu

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10. RBI’s Rate Dilemma: November Inflation Likely Eased to 5%

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) faces a policy dilemma as inflation is projected to have eased to 5%, prompting debates over maintaining or reducing interest rates.

About the RBI Rate Dilemma:

• Definition/Description:
  • The RBI adjusts interest rates to manage inflation and support economic growth, a delicate balancing act influenced by multiple factors.
• Background:
  • Inflation peaked earlier in the year due to supply chain disruptions and rising fuel prices.
  • RBI’s monetary policy committee (MPC) has raised rates to contain inflation but faces calls for easing to boost growth.
• Key Aspects:
  • Inflation control through higher rates often leads to reduced economic activity.
  • Lower rates could stimulate growth but risk increasing inflation again.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Balancing growth and inflation amid global economic uncertainty.
  • Managing capital outflows due to higher US interest rates.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Globally, central banks are adopting diverse strategies to tackle inflation.
  • In India, inflation control is critical to maintaining purchasing power and economic stability.
• Future Prospects:
  • Continued focus on data-driven policy adjustments.
  • Potential for rate cuts if inflation remains under control.

Source: The Hindu

11. Bhutan and India Discuss Gelephu, Hydel Power Plans

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• Bhutan and India held discussions on the development of Gelephu Airport and advancing hydroelectric power projects to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

About Bhutan-India Cooperation:

• Definition/Description:
  • India and Bhutan share a long-standing partnership, particularly in areas such as hydropower, trade, and regional connectivity.
• Background:
  • Hydropower forms a significant part of Bhutan’s economy, with India as the largest investor and importer.
  • Gelephu Airport is envisioned to boost regional connectivity and tourism.
• Key Aspects:
  • Agreements to fast-track hydropower projects like the Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project.
  • Focus on sustainable development and climate change mitigation in energy projects.
  • Exploration of new trade routes and aviation links to enhance connectivity.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Delays in project completion due to financial and environmental concerns.
  • Dependence on India for funding and technical support.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Bhutan’s hydropower projects are vital for India’s clean energy goals.
  • Strengthening Bhutan-India ties aligns with India’s Act East Policy.
• Future Prospects:
  • Gelephu Airport could transform regional connectivity in South Asia.
  • New hydropower projects may help Bhutan achieve self-sufficiency in energy production.

Source: The Hindu

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12. How Tuberculosis Destabilises the Mental Moorings of Patients

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• Tuberculosis (TB) patients often experience severe mental health challenges, exacerbated by stigma, prolonged treatment, and socioeconomic factors.

About TB and Mental Health:

• Definition/Description:
  • Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs, requiring long-term treatment, often leading to mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
• Background:
  • India accounts for 26% of global TB cases.
  • Programs like the National TB Elimination Program aim to eliminate TB by 2025.
• Key Aspects:
  • Psychological impact due to extended isolation during treatment.
  • Economic burden of treatment and loss of livelihood for patients.
  • Social stigma leading to ostracization.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Inadequate mental health support for TB patients.
  • High dropout rates from treatment programs due to mental distress.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Globally, WHO recommends integrating mental health services into TB care.
  • In India, initiatives like Nikshay Mitra aim to provide holistic care for TB patients.
• Future Prospects:
  • Increasing awareness and counseling support for TB patients.
  • Strengthened public-private partnerships to address the dual burden of TB and mental health.

Source: The Hindu

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13. What Is Behind Cryptocurrency’s Surge?

Subject and UPSC Paper:

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

Why in News?:

• Cryptocurrencies have seen a significant surge in value, sparking debates about their viability, regulation, and risks.

About Cryptocurrency Surge:

• Definition/Description:
  • Cryptocurrencies are decentralized digital assets using blockchain technology for secure transactions.
• Background:
  • Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies have become popular as alternative investments.
  • Factors like institutional adoption, speculation, and limited supply drive prices.
• Key Aspects:
  • Increased interest from retail and institutional investors.
  • Innovations like decentralized finance (DeFi) boosting crypto adoption.
  • Regulatory uncertainty creating volatility.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Risks of fraud, money laundering, and cybersecurity threats.
  • Environmental concerns due to high energy consumption in mining.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Globally, countries like El Salvador have legalized Bitcoin, while others, like China, have banned cryptocurrencies.
  • In India, the government is exploring a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) while seeking to regulate private cryptocurrencies.
• Future Prospects:
  • Development of robust regulatory frameworks to balance innovation and risks.
  • Greater integration of blockchain technology in mainstream financial systems.

Source: Indian Express

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14. PM Modi to Inaugurate Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav Celebrating North-East’s Culture & Craft

Subject and UPSC Paper:

• Subject: Culture
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS1 (Culture)

Why in News?:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav, a festival aimed at showcasing the culture, traditions, and crafts of India’s northeastern states.

About the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav:

• Definition/Description:
  • The Ashtalakshmi concept refers to the eight northeastern states as the economic and cultural jewels of India.
• Background:
  • The festival is part of India’s Act East Policy, which focuses on integrating the Northeast with the country’s economic and cultural mainstream.
• Key Aspects:
  • Highlights include exhibitions of traditional crafts, music, and dance forms like Manipuri, Sattriya, and Bihu.
  • Emphasis on promoting local artisans and entrepreneurs.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Limited infrastructure and connectivity hinder economic growth in the Northeast.
  • Preservation of indigenous traditions and crafts amidst modernization.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Globally, similar festivals like Scotland’s Highland Games promote regional identity.
  • In India, cultural integration is crucial for national unity and economic growth.
• Future Prospects:
  • Enhanced focus on tourism and trade opportunities in the Northeast.
  • Strengthened cultural ties with Southeast Asia under the Act East Policy.

Source: AIR