Daily Current Affairs for UPSC – 15th November 2024

Daily Current Affairs for UPSC – 15th November 2024

1. Supreme Court on Bulldozer Justice: Upholding Rule of Law

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Polity and Governance
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-II (Governance, Constitution, Fundamental Rights)

Why in News?

• The Supreme Court criticized the arbitrary demolition of properties under “bulldozer justice,” asserting that such actions violate constitutional rights and the principles of natural justice.
• Source: The Hindu

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About Bulldozer Justice

• Definition/Description:
  Bulldozer justice refers to the punitive use of property demolition as an immediate response to alleged crimes, often bypassing legal processes. Critics argue it undermines the rule of law and violates fundamental rights.
• Background:
  • Legal Precedent:
    • Article 21 ensures the right to life and dignity, including the right to shelter.
    • Article 300A protects citizens from deprivation of property without due process.
  • Concerns:
    • Demolitions are often perceived as targeting marginalized communities without fair hearings, leading to allegations of bias and misuse of power.
• Key Aspects:
  • Supreme Court Ruling:
    • Demolitions must be preceded by notices and hearings to ensure procedural fairness.
    • The state must justify demolitions as a last resort.
  • Administrative Accountability:
    • Local authorities must adhere to town planning laws and judicial directives during demolitions.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Article 21: Right to life and personal liberty.
  • Article 300A: Protection against deprivation of property.
  • Principle of Natural Justice: Ensures fairness in administrative actions.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Misuse of Authority: Arbitrary demolitions undermine public trust in governance.
  • Judicial Backlog: Victims face delays in accessing justice due to overburdened courts.
  • Marginalization: Disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities exacerbates social inequalities.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • Urban governance challenges include encroachments and lack of affordable housing.
    • High-profile cases have drawn attention to the need for fair administrative practices.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Countries like South Africa have established frameworks ensuring legal oversight in eviction cases to prevent human rights violations.
• Future Prospects:
  • Policy Reforms: Introducing stricter accountability measures for administrative actions.
  • Judicial Oversight: Setting up special tribunals to address property rights disputes promptly.
  • Community Engagement: Involving stakeholders in urban planning to reduce conflicts.

Source

• The Hindu

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2. Lancet Study: India Tops Global Diabetes Cases

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Health and Human Resource Development
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-II (Health, Social Justice)

Why in News?

• A Lancet study reported that India now has the world’s highest number of diabetes cases, with over 212 million people affected.
• Source: The Hindu

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About Diabetes in India

• Definition/Description:
  Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood glucose levels due to insufficient insulin production or ineffective insulin use. The two primary types are Type 1 (autoimmune) and Type 2 (lifestyle-related).
• Background:
  • India’s Diabetes Burden:
    • Rapid urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and poor dietary habits have contributed to the diabetes epidemic.
    • India’s large population magnifies the public health impact of this non-communicable disease (NCD).
  • Economic Impact:
    • Diabetes management imposes significant costs on healthcare systems and families, affecting economic productivity.
• Key Aspects:
  • Findings of the Lancet Study:
    • Urbanization has increased diabetes prevalence among younger populations.
    • Rural areas are catching up due to dietary changes and reduced physical activity.
  • Complications:
    • Diabetes is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, kidney failure, and blindness.
• Government Initiatives:
  • National Program for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke (NPCDCS): Focuses on early detection and awareness.
  • Ayushman Bharat: Covers treatment for diabetes under its health insurance scheme.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Access to Healthcare: Rural areas lack diagnostic facilities and trained healthcare workers.
  • Cost of Medication: Insulin and oral hypoglycemics remain unaffordable for many.
  • Awareness Gaps: Limited understanding of lifestyle changes necessary to manage or prevent diabetes.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • India’s genetic predisposition to Type 2 diabetes is compounded by lifestyle factors.
    • Dietary habits, particularly high carbohydrate consumption, are a key contributor.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Countries like Finland and Japan have implemented successful diabetes prevention programs, focusing on lifestyle changes and community participation.
• Future Prospects:
  • Policy Recommendations: Taxation on sugary foods, subsidies for healthy alternatives, and stricter food labeling regulations.
  • Technological Solutions: Digital tools for monitoring blood glucose levels and telemedicine services for rural outreach.

Source

• The Hindu

3. COP29 and Climate Finance: Developing Nations Demand $1.3 Trillion Annually

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Environment and Climate Change
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-III (Conservation, Climate Change, International Relations)

Why in News?

• At the COP29 negotiations, developing countries demanded $1.3 trillion annually in climate finance to achieve their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
• Source: The Hindu

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About Climate Finance and COP29

• Definition/Description:
  Climate finance refers to funding provided by developed countries to developing nations to mitigate and adapt to climate change. This includes investments in renewable energy, climate-resilient infrastructure, and carbon sequestration projects.
• Background:
  • UNFCCC Framework:
    • Developed countries committed to mobilizing $100 billion annually by 2020, a target that remains unmet.
    • The Paris Agreement (2015) binds countries to set voluntary NDCs to limit global temperature rise to below 2°C.
  • COP29 Agenda:
    • Strengthen financial mechanisms for mitigation and adaptation.
    • Operationalize the Loss and Damage Fund agreed upon at COP28.
• Key Aspects:
  • Developing Nations’ Demand:
    • $1.3 trillion annually by 2030 to implement NDCs and build climate resilience.
    • Argue that developed countries, historically responsible for emissions, must bear the greater financial burden.
  • Developed Nations’ Response:
    • Insist on contributions from wealthy developing countries, citing rising emissions in nations like China and India.
  • Loss and Damage:
    • A contentious issue involving compensation for irreversible damages caused by climate change (e.g., rising sea levels affecting island nations).
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Paris Agreement (2015): Legal framework for international climate action.
  • Green Climate Fund (GCF): A mechanism under the UNFCCC to channel climate finance to developing countries.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Funding Gap: Current contributions fall short of the $100 billion target.
  • Accountability: Lack of transparency in how pledged funds are disbursed and utilized.
  • Adaptation vs. Mitigation: Most funds prioritize mitigation (renewable energy) over adaptation (disaster preparedness).
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • India has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 and increasing renewable energy capacity to 500 GW by 2030.
    • Domestic challenges include balancing development goals with emission reduction targets.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) are most vulnerable to climate impacts, necessitating urgent financial support.
• Future Prospects:
  • Revised Commitments: Strengthening financial pledges and introducing mechanisms for direct access to funds.
  • Private Sector Role: Mobilizing investments through public-private partnerships in renewable energy and green technology.
  • India’s Leadership: Leveraging initiatives like the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to secure climate finance and promote regional cooperation.

Source

• The Hindu

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4. Supreme Court Revisits AFSPA

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Polity, Internal Security
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-II (Governance, Fundamental Rights), GS-III (Internal Security)

Why in News?

• The Supreme Court expressed concerns over the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) and called for a review of its implementation, especially in conflict-prone regions.
• Source: The Indian Express

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About AFSPA and the Supreme Court’s Observation

• Definition/Description:
  AFSPA grants special powers to armed forces in “disturbed areas” to maintain public order, including the authority to conduct searches, arrests, and use force without prior judicial approval.
• Background:
  • Origins: Enacted in 1958 to address insurgencies in the northeastern states and later extended to Jammu & Kashmir.
  • Key Provisions:
    • Armed forces can arrest without a warrant and open fire if deemed necessary.
    • State governments can recommend AFSPA’s imposition or revocation.
  • Controversy:
    • Allegations of misuse and human rights violations have led to calls for its repeal or reform.
• Key Aspects:
  • Supreme Court’s Concerns:
    • Stressed the need for accountability mechanisms to prevent misuse of powers.
    • Suggested regular review of “disturbed area” notifications.
  • Impact on Civil Liberties:
    • Diminishes public trust in the state and exacerbates alienation among affected populations.
  • National Security vs. Human Rights:
    • Balancing operational freedom for armed forces with protection of citizens’ fundamental rights.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Article 355: Obligates the Union to protect states from internal disturbances.
  • Supreme Court Judgments:
    • In Naga People’s Movement v. Union of India (1997), the Court upheld AFSPA’s constitutionality but emphasized safeguards against misuse.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Oversight Mechanisms: Absence of independent review committees to address grievances.
  • Public Perception: Perceived as a tool of oppression, especially in northeastern states and J&K.
  • Accountability: Alleged impunity for security forces in cases of extrajudicial killings and torture.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • Recent reductions in AFSPA’s jurisdiction in Nagaland, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh reflect gradual de-escalation of conflicts.
  • Global Perspective:
    • International human rights organizations have consistently criticized AFSPA, urging India to align its policies with global human rights standards.
• Future Prospects:
  • Policy Reforms: Introducing periodic reviews and establishing grievance redressal mechanisms.
  • Alternative Frameworks: Replacing AFSPA with a more balanced law that ensures both security and civil liberties.
  • Dialogue-Based Approach: Enhancing trust between communities and security forces through inclusive development programs.

Source

• The Indian Express

5. India Tops Global Diabetes Cases: Lancet Report

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Health, Human Development
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-II (Health, Social Justice)

Why in News?

• A Lancet study revealed that India now has the largest number of diabetes cases globally, surpassing 212 million.
• Source: The Hindu

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About Diabetes and Its Impact in India

• Definition/Description:
  Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels. Major types include:
  • Type 1 Diabetes: Autoimmune in nature, requiring insulin.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Linked to obesity and lifestyle factors, accounting for 90% of cases.
  • Gestational Diabetes: Develops during pregnancy.
• Background:
  • Rising Prevalence: India has seen a dramatic rise in diabetes cases over the last few decades due to urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and poor dietary habits.
  • Economic and Social Costs:
    • Loss of productivity and increased healthcare expenditures burden families and the economy.
• Key Aspects:
  • Findings of the Lancet Study:
    • 36% of Indian adults are pre-diabetic.
    • Rural regions are catching up with urban areas due to dietary changes and declining physical activity.
  • Complications:
    • Diabetes significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, kidney failure, and blindness.
    • It is also a leading cause of amputations due to poor wound healing.
• Government Initiatives:
  • National Health Mission: Includes diabetes screening at primary health centers.
  • National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke (NPCDCS): Focuses on awareness, early detection, and treatment.
  • Ayushman Bharat: Covers diabetes treatment under health insurance schemes.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Healthcare Accessibility: Limited access to diagnostics and treatment in rural areas.
  • Affordability: High cost of insulin and other diabetes medications.
  • Awareness Gap: Many individuals remain undiagnosed or untreated due to lack of awareness.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • India is often referred to as the “diabetes capital of the world.”
    • Socio-economic disparities exacerbate the impact on vulnerable populations.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Countries like Finland and Japan have implemented preventive measures, such as community-based exercise programs and dietary regulations, which India could adopt.
• Future Prospects:
  • Policy Recommendations:
    • Implementing a sugar tax to reduce consumption of sugary beverages.
    • Subsidizing essential medicines like insulin for low-income groups.
  • Technological Integration: Using wearable devices and apps for real-time monitoring of blood sugar levels.
  • Focus on Prevention: Promoting public awareness campaigns on healthy lifestyles.

Source

• The Hindu

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6. Inflation Surges to 6.2% in October

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Economics
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-III (Economic Development)

Why in News?

• India’s retail inflation surged to 6.2% in October, surpassing the Reserve Bank of India’s upper tolerance limit due to a sharp rise in food prices, particularly vegetables.
• Source: The Hindu

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About the Inflation Spike

• Definition/Description:
  Inflation is the rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services rises, eroding purchasing power. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) tracks inflation trends based on a basket of goods and services.
• Background:
  • RBI’s Inflation Target:
    • Set at 4% with a tolerance band of ±2% under the Monetary Policy Framework Agreement.
  • Key Contributors:
    • Food prices surged by 10.9%, with vegetables experiencing a 42% rise.
• Key Aspects:
  • Impact on Monetary Policy:
    • The inflation breach limits the RBI’s scope for rate cuts, which were anticipated to spur growth.
  • Consumer Impact:
    • Rising prices strain household budgets, particularly in low-income families.
  • Wider Economic Implications:
    • Persistent inflation could dampen consumption, slowing economic recovery.
• Government and RBI Measures:
  • Short-Term Actions: Reducing import duties on essential food items and releasing buffer stock of vegetables.
  • Long-Term Focus: Enhancing agricultural infrastructure to stabilize supply.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Supply-Side Constraints: Inefficient logistics and storage facilities contribute to seasonal price volatility.
  • Global Influences: Rising global commodity prices, including energy costs, exacerbate domestic inflation.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • High food inflation disproportionately impacts the poor, who spend a significant portion of their income on food.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Similar inflation trends are observed in economies like the U.S. and Brazil due to disruptions in global supply chains.
• Future Prospects:
  • Policy Recommendations:
    • Strengthening the public distribution system to shield vulnerable populations.
    • Promoting cold chain infrastructure to reduce wastage.
  • RBI’s Focus: Balancing inflation control with economic growth through calibrated monetary policy.

Source

• The Hindu

7. Supreme Court Revisits AFSPA

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Polity and Internal Security
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-II (Governance, Fundamental Rights), GS-III (Internal Security)

Why in News?

• The Supreme Court raised concerns over the misuse of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) and called for its periodic review to address allegations of human rights violations.
• Source: The Indian Express

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About AFSPA and its Implications

• Definition/Description:
  AFSPA grants special powers to armed forces in “disturbed areas,” allowing them to search, arrest, and open fire without prior judicial approval.
• Background:
  • Enacted in 1958: Originally implemented in northeastern states to address insurgencies. Later extended to Jammu and Kashmir.
  • Controversies:
    • Critics argue it provides excessive impunity to security forces, leading to human rights abuses.
    • Supporters view it as essential for maintaining law and order in conflict zones.
• Key Aspects:
  • Supreme Court’s Observations:
    • Highlighted the need for safeguards against misuse of powers.
    • Stressed the importance of accountability and transparency in operations.
  • Operational Freedom vs. Accountability:
    • The act empowers security forces but limits judicial oversight, raising concerns about violations of fundamental rights.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Article 355: Obligates the Union to protect states from internal disturbances.
  • Judicial Precedent:
    • Naga People’s Movement v. Union of India (1997): SC upheld AFSPA’s constitutionality but emphasized safeguards against abuse.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Perceived Impunity: Lack of accountability mechanisms undermines public trust in institutions.
  • Prolonged Implementation: AFSPA remains in force in many areas despite improved security conditions.
  • Public Perception: Alleged misuse fuels alienation and resentment among local communities.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • AFSPA has been gradually withdrawn from parts of Nagaland, Manipur, and Assam, signaling improving conditions.
  • Global Perspective:
    • International human rights bodies have criticized AFSPA, urging India to align its policies with global standards.
• Future Prospects:
  • Policy Reforms:
    • Introducing time-bound reviews and independent oversight committees.
    • Strengthening grievance redressal mechanisms for affected communities.
  • Dialogue-Based Approach: Enhancing trust between security forces and civilians through developmental initiatives.

Source

• The Indian Express

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8. COP29: Developing Nations Demand $1.3 Trillion in Climate Finance

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Environment and Climate Change
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-III (Conservation, Climate Change, International Relations)

Why in News?

• Developing countries have called for $1.3 trillion annually in climate finance at COP29 negotiations to achieve their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
• Source: The Hindu

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About Climate Finance and COP29

• Definition/Description:
  Climate finance refers to funding provided by developed nations to assist developing countries in mitigating and adapting to climate change.
• Background:
  • Paris Agreement (2015):
    • Countries committed to limiting global warming to below 2°C, with financial mechanisms for climate action.
    • Developed nations pledged $100 billion annually by 2020, a target not yet met.
  • Key Focus Areas of COP29:
    • Operationalizing the Loss and Damage Fund.
    • Ensuring transparency in climate finance disbursement.
• Key Aspects:
  • Developing Nations’ Demand:
    • $1.3 trillion annually to implement NDCs and build climate-resilient infrastructure.
    • Emphasize historical responsibility of developed nations for global emissions.
  • Challenges in Climate Finance:
    • Delays in fund disbursement and lack of accountability.
    • Mismatch between mitigation and adaptation priorities.
  • Loss and Damage Fund:
    • Aims to compensate vulnerable nations for irreversible climate impacts, such as rising sea levels and extreme weather events.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • UNFCCC: Framework for global climate action.
  • Green Climate Fund (GCF): Mechanism to mobilize and allocate climate finance.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Funding Gap: Current pledges fall short of the required $1.3 trillion.
  • Accountability Concerns: Limited tracking of how funds are used.
  • Adaptation Neglect: Most funds prioritize mitigation, leaving adaptation underfunded.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • India has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 and increasing renewable energy capacity to 500 GW by 2030.
    • Needs significant climate finance to meet these ambitious goals.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) remain the most vulnerable and reliant on international support.
• Future Prospects:
  • Revised Commitments: Developed nations must scale up pledges and ensure timely disbursements.
  • Private Sector Engagement: Mobilizing investments through public-private partnerships.
  • Technology Transfer: Enhancing access to clean technologies for developing countries.

Source

• The Hindu

9. India’s Food Price Inflation: October Spike

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Economics
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-III (Economic Development)

Why in News?

• India’s food inflation surged to 10.9% in October, with vegetables registering a 42% increase, contributing to overall retail inflation exceeding the Reserve Bank of India’s target range.
• Source: The Hindu

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About Food Inflation in India

• Definition/Description:
  Food inflation is the rate at which the prices of food items increase over a specific period. It significantly impacts the Consumer Price Index (CPI), given that food constitutes about 45% of India’s CPI basket.
• Background:
  • Seasonal Factors:
    • Poor monsoon distribution and unseasonal rains disrupted agricultural output.
  • Supply Chain Inefficiencies:
    • Inadequate cold storage and transportation issues exacerbated price volatility.
• Key Aspects:
  • Drivers of Inflation:
    • Vegetables (42%), cereals, and edible oils were the main contributors to the price rise.
    • Global factors, such as rising crude oil prices and geopolitical disruptions, also played a role.
  • Impact on Households:
    • Higher food prices reduce disposable income, affecting non-essential consumption.
    • Low-income families, spending a larger share on food, are disproportionately impacted.
  • Policy Implications:
    • Limits the RBI’s ability to reduce interest rates to boost growth.
    • Strains fiscal resources if the government increases subsidies or reduces import duties.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Essential Commodities Act, 1955: Empowers the government to regulate production and supply of essential items.
  • Public Distribution System (PDS): Provides food grains at subsidized rates to vulnerable sections.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Storage and Wastage: Over 30% of perishable food is wasted due to inadequate infrastructure.
  • Middlemen Exploitation: Farmers receive low prices, while consumers face inflated rates.
  • Climate Vulnerability: Erratic weather patterns increasingly disrupt agricultural yields.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • High food inflation impacts macroeconomic stability, affecting growth and fiscal balance.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Inflation trends in major economies like the U.S. and EU are similarly driven by supply chain bottlenecks and rising energy prices.
• Future Prospects:
  • Short-Term Measures:
    • Importing essential commodities to stabilize supply.
    • Utilizing buffer stocks to control vegetable prices.
  • Long-Term Reforms:
    • Strengthening agricultural logistics and cold storage.
    • Promoting technology-driven solutions like precision farming.

Source

• The Hindu

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10. Supreme Court on Article 300A: Property Rights

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Polity and Governance
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-II (Governance, Constitution)

Why in News?

• The Supreme Court reiterated the constitutional protection under Article 300A, asserting that deprivation of property must follow due legal process.
• Source: The Hindu

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About Article 300A and Property Rights

• Definition/Description:
  Article 300A of the Indian Constitution ensures that no citizen shall be deprived of their property except by the authority of law. It provides statutory protection for property rights, unlike the earlier fundamental right under Article 31.
• Background:
  • Constitutional Evolution:
    • The right to property was originally a fundamental right under Articles 19 and 31.
    • It was removed as a fundamental right by the 44th Amendment (1978) and added as a constitutional right under Article 300A.
  • Judicial Interpretation:
    • Courts have consistently emphasized the importance of following due process before property deprivation.
• Key Aspects:
  • Supreme Court’s Observations:
    • Arbitrary demolition of properties violates Article 300A.
    • State actions must be proportional, reasonable, and procedurally sound.
  • Impact on Governance:
    • Reinforces accountability of administrative authorities.
    • Protects citizens from arbitrary actions, especially during urban development projects.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Land Acquisition Act, 2013: Mandates fair compensation and rehabilitation for land acquisition.
  • Principles of Natural Justice: Ensures transparency and fairness in administrative decisions.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Urban Evictions: Slum demolitions often bypass procedural safeguards, impacting marginalized communities.
  • Land Acquisition: Disputes over compensation and rehabilitation remain common.
  • Judicial Backlog: Property disputes constitute a significant share of pending cases.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • Property rights are critical for economic development and urbanization.
    • Ensuring procedural fairness is essential to maintain public trust in governance.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Property rights are recognized as fundamental in many democracies, with strict procedural safeguards.
• Future Prospects:
  • Reforms in Urban Planning:
    • Inclusive policies to integrate slums and informal settlements.
  • Technology Use:
    • Digitizing land records to reduce disputes and ensure transparency.

Source

• The Hindu