Daily current Affairs for UPSC – 16th November 2024

Daily current Affairs for UPSC – 16th November 2024

1. AFSPA Reimposed in Manipur

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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 Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) has been reimposed in certain areas of Manipur following renewed ethnic violence and instability.
• Source: The Hindu

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About AFSPA and Its Reimposition

• Definition/Description:
  AFSPA grants special powers to armed forces in “disturbed areas,” enabling them to maintain law and order, including arrest without warrant, search operations, and the use of force, even to the extent of causing death.
• Background:
  • Origin: Enacted in 1958 to counter insurgency in the northeast and later extended to Jammu & Kashmir.
  • Controversy: While essential for tackling insurgency, AFSPA has been criticized for alleged human rights violations and misuse of power.
• Key Aspects:
  • Recent Developments:
    • Ethnic violence between communities in Manipur escalated, prompting the state government to request AFSPA reimposition in disturbed areas.
    • The law aims to empower security forces for rapid response in maintaining order.
  • Concerns Over Misuse:
    • Allegations of extrajudicial killings and civilian harassment under AFSPA are recurring themes.
    • The absence of accountability mechanisms aggravates public distrust.
  • Impact on Local Communities:
    • Increased alienation among affected populations due to perceived overreach of security forces.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Article 355: Mandates the Union government to protect states from internal disturbances.
  • Judicial Precedents:
    • In Naga People’s Movement v. Union of India (1997), the Supreme Court upheld AFSPA’s constitutionality but emphasized safeguards against misuse.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Perceived Impunity: The law shields security personnel from prosecution without prior government sanction.
  • Civilian Hardship: Frequent disruptions to daily life due to militarization of civilian spaces.
  • Governance Failure: AFSPA’s reimposition highlights a lack of effective civilian governance and reconciliation mechanisms.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • Manipur’s unique socio-ethnic fabric has historically been prone to conflict, requiring sensitive governance measures.
    • Gradual AFSPA withdrawal in Nagaland, Assam, and Manipur itself earlier signaled progress in conflict resolution, now reversed in parts of Manipur.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Other democracies facing insurgency, like Colombia and the Philippines, have developed frameworks balancing military intervention with community engagement.
• Future Prospects:
  • Reforms in AFSPA:
    • Incorporating periodic reviews and independent oversight mechanisms to prevent misuse.
    • Balancing the need for security with protection of human rights.
  • Community Rebuilding:
    • Initiatives for dialogue between communities and inclusive governance structures.
    • Enhanced developmental programs to address root causes of unrest.

Source

• The Hindu

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2. Birsa Munda Lives On

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Modern Indian History, Tribal Welfare
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-I (History), GS-II (Governance, Social Justice)

Why in News?

• Tributes were paid nationwide to Birsa Munda on his birth anniversary, celebrating his contributions to India’s tribal movements and anti-colonial struggles.
• Source: The Hindu

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About Birsa Munda and His Legacy

• Definition/Description:
  Birsa Munda (1875–1900) was a tribal leader and freedom fighter from Jharkhand who led the Munda Rebellion (1899-1900) against British colonial policies and oppressive landlords.
• Background:
  • Historical Significance:
    • The rebellion, also known as “Ulgulan” or the Great Tumult, aimed to restore tribal rights to land and resist forced labor under the “beth begari” system.
    • Birsa’s movement was rooted in preserving tribal identity, culture, and autonomy.
  • Religious Reform:
    • Birsa proclaimed himself a prophet and sought to unify the tribal communities under his spiritual leadership.
• Key Aspects:
  • Impact of the Rebellion:
    • Though the rebellion was suppressed, it led to the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act, 1908, protecting tribal land rights.
    • Strengthened the tribal identity and sowed the seeds for future movements.
  • Modern Relevance:
    • Birsa Munda remains a symbol of resistance against oppression and the fight for tribal welfare.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Fifth Schedule: Provides special protections for Scheduled Tribes in India.
  • Forest Rights Act, 2006: Aims to recognize the rights of forest-dwelling communities.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Land Alienation: Despite legal protections, tribal communities continue to face displacement due to mining, infrastructure, and industrial projects.
  • Economic Marginalization: Tribals lag in key indicators like education, healthcare, and income generation.
  • Political Underrepresentation: Limited participation in decision-making processes affecting their lives.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • Tribals form about 8.6% of India’s population and are recognized as Scheduled Tribes under the Constitution.
    • Efforts like the Tribal Sub-Plan and Eklavya Model Residential Schools aim to address disparities.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Indigenous rights movements worldwide, such as those in Canada and Australia, highlight common struggles for land, culture, and identity preservation.
• Future Prospects:
  • Policy Focus:
    • Strengthening legal frameworks to prevent tribal land alienation.
    • Expanding welfare schemes to bridge socio-economic gaps.
  • Cultural Preservation:
    • Promoting tribal languages, arts, and traditions to protect their heritage.

Source

• The Hindu

3. Wayanad Landslides Not Declared National Calamity

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Disaster Management
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-III (Disaster Management, Environmental Conservation)

Why in News?

• Landslides in Wayanad caused significant damage to life and property, but the region was not declared a national calamity, sparking debates about disaster management policies.
• Source: The Hindu

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About Landslides and Disaster Management in Wayanad

• Definition/Description:
  Landslides are the downward movement of rock, soil, and debris due to gravity, often triggered by heavy rainfall, deforestation, or unregulated construction in hilly areas.
• Background:
  • Wayanad’s Vulnerability:
    • A part of the Western Ghats, Wayanad is ecologically sensitive and prone to landslides during monsoons.
    • Illegal quarrying and deforestation exacerbate the risks.
  • Policy Gaps:
    • Lack of clarity in declaring disasters as national calamities leads to inconsistencies in relief measures.
• Key Aspects:
  • Impact of the Landslides:
    • Loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of communities.
    • Long-term impacts on agriculture and tourism, the region’s main economic activities.
  • Relief and Rehabilitation:
    • Immediate response included rescue operations and provision of temporary shelters.
    • Local communities criticized the delay in aid and lack of coordination among authorities.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Disaster Management Act, 2005: Defines disaster response mechanisms and coordination between central and state governments.
  • Eco-Sensitive Zone Guidelines: Restrictions on developmental activities in ecologically sensitive areas, often poorly implemented.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Insufficient Funding: Relief and rehabilitation budgets are inadequate for large-scale disasters.
  • Policy Ambiguity: No clear criteria for declaring national calamities.
  • Environmental Degradation: Unregulated construction and deforestation increase landslide susceptibility.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • Landslides account for over 12% of natural disasters in India, with the Western Ghats and Himalayan regions most vulnerable.
    • Initiatives like the National Landslide Susceptibility Mapping (NLSM) aim to improve risk assessment.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Countries like Japan and Switzerland use advanced technologies like LiDAR and GIS for real-time landslide monitoring and prevention.
• Future Prospects:
  • Short-Term:
    • Strengthen early warning systems and community-based disaster preparedness.
    • Provide incentives for afforestation and sustainable agricultural practices in vulnerable areas.
  • Long-Term:
    • Develop comprehensive policies for eco-sensitive zones.
    • Invest in technology for real-time monitoring and disaster mitigation.

Source

• The Hindu

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4. Climate Change and Trade: EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)

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Subject and UPSC Paper

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

Why in News?

• The European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) has raised concerns among developing nations, including India, about its implications for global trade and climate justice.
• Source: The Hindu

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About CBAM and Climate Change Implications

• Definition/Description:
  CBAM is a policy by the European Union to impose tariffs on carbon-intensive imports from non-EU countries to promote cleaner industrial practices and prevent carbon leakage.
• Background:
  • Purpose of CBAM:
    • To equalize carbon pricing between EU producers (subject to strict emission controls) and foreign producers.
    • Prevent industries from relocating to countries with lax emission norms to avoid EU carbon costs (carbon leakage).
  • Implementation Timeline:
    • CBAM will be phased in from 2026, covering sectors like steel, aluminum, cement, and fertilizers.
• Key Aspects:
  • Impact on India:
    • Indian exports to the EU, particularly in steel and aluminum, face higher tariffs due to CBAM.
    • Indian industries are less carbon-efficient compared to their European counterparts, increasing their cost burden.
  • Concerns Over Equity:
    • Developing countries argue that CBAM undermines the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities” (CBDR) under the Paris Agreement.
    • They see it as a trade barrier disguised as an environmental measure.
  • EU’s Counterarguments:
    • CBAM is presented as a fair policy to prevent carbon leakage and incentivize global climate action.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Paris Agreement (2015): Recognizes CBDR, emphasizing differentiated responsibilities for developed and developing nations.
  • WTO and Trade Laws: CBAM faces scrutiny over its compliance with global trade norms under the WTO.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Economic Impact on Developing Nations:
    • Developing countries, with limited access to green technologies, are disproportionately affected.
    • Exporters may face reduced competitiveness in EU markets.
  • Lack of Global Consensus:
    • CBAM lacks support from major trading partners like India, China, and Brazil, increasing the risk of trade disputes.
  • Greenwashing Concerns:
    • Critics argue that CBAM disproportionately benefits EU industries without addressing systemic global emission challenges.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • India’s steel and aluminum sectors, which are major exporters to the EU, face compliance challenges.
    • India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission could play a role in greening its industrial base.
  • Global Perspective:
    • CBAM could set a precedent for similar policies by other developed nations, increasing the regulatory burden on exporters globally.
• Future Prospects:
  • Negotiation and Advocacy:
    • India and other developing nations may push for exemptions or support mechanisms under CBAM.
  • Transition to Green Technology:
    • Investing in renewable energy and cleaner production methods to reduce carbon intensity.
  • Collaborative Frameworks:
    • Promoting technology transfer and climate finance to help developing nations comply with global climate targets.

Source

• The Hindu

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5. Military Drills: Keris Woomera 2024

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: International Relations, Security
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-II (International Relations), GS-III (Internal Security)

Why in News?

• India participated in the multilateral military exercise “Keris Woomera 2024,” aimed at enhancing maritime security and interoperability among Indo-Pacific nations.
• Source: The Indian Express

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About Keris Woomera 2024

• Definition/Description:
  Keris Woomera is an annual military exercise involving key Indo-Pacific nations to strengthen maritime security, counter-terrorism, and disaster response operations.
• Background:
  • Maritime Security in the Indo-Pacific:
    • The Indo-Pacific region is vital for global trade and geopolitics, making it a hotspot for cooperation and conflict.
    • Security concerns include piracy, smuggling, and territorial disputes, particularly in the South China Sea.
  • India’s Participation:
    • Reflects India’s commitment to its Act East Policy and enhancing strategic partnerships in the region.
• Key Aspects:
  • Objectives of the Exercise:
    • Enhance interoperability among participating navies.
    • Share best practices in maritime operations, disaster relief, and counter-terrorism.
  • India’s Role:
    • India contributed with advanced naval platforms and expertise in humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR).
  • Participating Nations:
    • Key players include Australia, Japan, the US, and ASEAN nations, highlighting the Quad’s influence in the region.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea): Governs maritime rights and responsibilities.
  • Indo-Pacific Strategy: Focuses on maintaining a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Rising Chinese Influence:
    • China’s militarization of the South China Sea threatens regional stability.
    • Frequent confrontations with other Indo-Pacific nations over territorial claims.
  • Coordination Gaps:
    • Divergent priorities among participating nations could hinder the effectiveness of exercises like Keris Woomera.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • India’s participation underscores its strategic shift towards proactive maritime diplomacy.
    • The exercise complements India’s naval modernization and regional leadership aspirations.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Such exercises align with the broader goals of the Quad to counterbalance China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific.
• Future Prospects:
  • Strengthening Partnerships:
    • Expanding India’s bilateral and multilateral naval exercises to include more Indo-Pacific stakeholders.
  • Technological Collaboration:
    • Joint development of naval technologies to enhance operational readiness.
  • Focus on HADR:
    • Positioning India as a regional leader in disaster relief and humanitarian assistance.

Source

• The Indian Express

6.Air Pollution in New Delhi: Stricter Anti-Pollution Measures Amid Worsening Air Quality”

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Environment and Public Health
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-III (Environment and Disaster Management)

Why in News?

• New Delhi and its surrounding areas are experiencing hazardous levels of air pollution, prompting stricter anti-pollution measures, including halting construction and shifting primary schools to online classes.
• Source: Reuters

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About Air Pollution in New Delhi

• Definition/Description:
  Air pollution in New Delhi refers to the presence of harmful levels of pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide in the air. These pollutants arise from vehicle emissions, industrial activities, construction dust, and seasonal factors like crop stubble burning.
• Background:
  • Annual Winter Crisis: Every winter, Delhi faces a severe pollution crisis due to temperature inversions trapping pollutants closer to the surface, compounded by stubble burning in neighboring states.
  • Previous Measures: Policies such as the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and introduction of CNG public transport have been implemented, but pollution levels remain dangerously high.
• Key Aspects:
  • Sources of Pollution:
    • Vehicular emissions and industrial activities contribute significantly to the high levels of particulate matter.
    • Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana adds to pollution during the winter months.
  • Impact on Health:
    • Prolonged exposure to high pollution levels causes respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, and premature deaths.
    • Vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly, are disproportionately affected.
  • Economic Costs:
    • Air pollution reduces workforce productivity and increases healthcare costs, adding to the economic burden.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP):
    • A stepwise action plan to mitigate air pollution based on air quality levels, including measures such as halting construction and restricting vehicle use.
  • National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):
    • Launched to reduce PM2.5 levels by 20-30% by 2024 through improved air quality monitoring and interventions.
  • Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM):
    • Oversees and coordinates efforts across NCR states to manage and reduce air pollution.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Enforcement Gaps: Inconsistent enforcement of pollution control measures at the local level weakens their effectiveness.
  • Dependency on Seasonal Factors: Over-reliance on temporary measures like bans during winter fails to address the root causes of air pollution.
  • Public Awareness: Despite policies, public participation in adopting eco-friendly practices remains low.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • New Delhi ranks among the world’s most polluted cities, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive policy intervention.
    • Pollution also impacts India’s image globally, particularly as the host of the G20 in 2024.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Cities like Beijing and Los Angeles have implemented successful air quality improvement strategies, offering lessons for New Delhi in addressing pollution.
• Future Prospects:
  • Technological Innovations: Adoption of technologies like smog towers and real-time air quality monitoring could reduce pollution levels.
  • Transition to Renewable Energy: Increasing reliance on renewable energy and phasing out coal-based power plants can help mitigate pollution.
  • Strengthened Legal Framework: Enhanced penalties for violations and stricter enforcement of air quality norms are essential.

Source

• Reuters

7. India’s Forex Reserves Decline for Sixth Consecutive Week – Impact on Economic Stability”

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Subject and UPSC Paper

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

Why in News?

• India’s foreign exchange reserves have declined for the sixth consecutive week, reaching $675.65 billion as of November 8, 2024, marking the lowest level in nearly three months.
• Source: Reuters

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About India’s Declining Forex Reserves

• Definition/Description:
  Foreign exchange reserves are assets held by a central bank in foreign currencies, which include gold reserves, Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), and foreign currency assets. These reserves help stabilize the national currency, ensure smooth international trade, and act as a buffer during economic crises.
• Background:
  • Role of Forex Reserves:
    • They are used to maintain exchange rate stability and support monetary policies.
    • A decline in reserves may indicate increased pressure on the currency due to capital outflows or rising import costs.
  • Recent Trends:
    • The ongoing decline in India’s forex reserves reflects the challenges posed by global economic volatility, higher energy import costs, and potential foreign investor pullout.
• Key Aspects:
  • Contributors to the Decline:
    • Rising Oil Prices: India’s dependency on oil imports has increased due to escalating global crude oil prices.
    • Capital Outflows: Foreign investors have been withdrawing funds from Indian markets, driven by higher U.S. interest rates and global economic uncertainties.
    • Strengthening Dollar: A stronger U.S. dollar has led to depreciation of the Indian rupee, prompting the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to intervene using reserves to stabilize the currency.
  • Impact on the Indian Economy:
    • A decline in reserves reduces India’s capacity to defend the rupee against further depreciation.
    • It also impacts import payments, particularly for essential goods like oil, fertilizers, and electronic components.
    • Lower reserves reduce investor confidence, potentially affecting foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Monetary Policy by RBI:
    • The RBI manages forex reserves and intervenes in the currency market to stabilize the rupee during volatile periods.
  • Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), 1999:
    • Regulates external trade and payments to ensure an orderly development of the forex market in India.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Rising Trade Deficit: India’s trade deficit has widened due to higher import costs and stagnant export growth.
  • Limited Policy Maneuverability: With declining reserves, the RBI has fewer tools to control currency depreciation without exacerbating reserve depletion.
  • Global Uncertainties: Geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and global inflationary pressures continue to challenge India’s forex management.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • India’s high dependency on imports for energy and raw materials makes its economy vulnerable to external shocks.
    • Managing forex reserves is critical for ensuring financial stability and sustaining investor confidence in the Indian economy.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Other emerging markets like Turkey and Argentina have faced similar reserve challenges, highlighting the need for effective monetary policies and diversified trade strategies.
• Future Prospects:
  • Diversifying Export Base: India could boost reserves by expanding high-value exports in sectors like technology, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy.
  • Strengthening Bilateral Agreements: Currency swap agreements with major economies can help reduce dependency on dollar reserves.
  • Boosting FDI Inflows: Simplifying investment norms and enhancing investor confidence could attract more foreign capital.

Source

• Reuters

8. Reliance Calls for Regulatory Review of Starlink and Kuiper – Protecting Local Telecom Interests”

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: Science and Technology, Economy
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-III (Economic Development, Technology)

Why in News?

• Reliance Industries has urged India’s telecom regulator to evaluate the reach and potential market impact of Elon Musk’s Starlink and Amazon’s Kuiper satellite internet services before spectrum allocation.
• Source: Reuters

About Starlink, Kuiper, and Regulatory Concerns

• Definition/Description:
  Starlink (by SpaceX) and Kuiper (by Amazon) are satellite internet services aiming to provide global internet coverage, particularly in underserved or remote regions. These services use low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to offer high-speed internet.
• Background:
  • India’s Satellite Internet Landscape:
    • India is a growing market for satellite internet, with initiatives to improve connectivity in rural and remote areas.
    • Local telecom players like Jio and Airtel have invested heavily in terrestrial and satellite-based networks.
  • Competition from Foreign Players:
    • Starlink and Kuiper, with their global satellite networks, could provide faster and more cost-effective internet services, posing competition to domestic players.
• Key Aspects:
  • Reliance’s Concerns:
    • Reliance has expressed apprehensions about the potential dominance of foreign satellite services, which could harm local telecom investments.
    • It suggests that foreign players’ extensive infrastructure and lower costs might disrupt the competitive balance in India’s telecom sector.
  • Potential Benefits of Satellite Internet:
    • High-speed internet in remote and rural areas where fiber connectivity is challenging.
    • Enhanced connectivity for critical sectors like education, healthcare, and disaster management.
  • Challenges for Domestic Players:
    • High investment requirements for satellite deployment.
    • Dependence on regulatory approvals and spectrum allocation delays.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI):
    • Responsible for regulating telecom services and ensuring a level playing field among players.
  • Spectrum Allocation Policy:
    • Spectrum for satellite communications is allocated by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in consultation with TRAI.
  • Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Policy:
    • Allows foreign investment in the telecom sector under specific guidelines, ensuring national interests are protected.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Regulatory Clarity: Lack of clear guidelines for spectrum allocation for satellite internet services creates uncertainty for both domestic and foreign players.
  • Fair Competition: Ensuring a level playing field between domestic and foreign companies while fostering innovation and connectivity.
  • Infrastructure Costs: Domestic players face higher costs and longer timelines for satellite deployment compared to global giants like SpaceX and Amazon.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • India’s government aims to achieve universal internet connectivity, but balancing foreign competition with local telecom growth remains a challenge.
    • Expanding satellite internet could complement government programs like BharatNet, aimed at improving rural connectivity.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Satellite internet services are growing worldwide, with companies like Starlink and Kuiper vying for global dominance.
    • Nations like the U.S. and China have adopted protective policies to safeguard domestic telecom interests while leveraging foreign innovation.
• Future Prospects:
  • Collaborative Opportunities: Encouraging partnerships between global giants and Indian firms to share technology and resources.
  • Regulatory Reforms: Developing clear policies on spectrum allocation and fair competition to attract investment while safeguarding local interests.
  • Boosting Domestic Capacity: Supporting Indian satellite and telecom companies through incentives and R&D funding to compete globally.

Source

• Reuters

9. UNHRC Concerns Over India’s Policies

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: International Relations, Human Rights
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-II (International Relations, Governance, and Social Justice)

Why in News?

• The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) expressed concerns over India’s counter-terrorism laws and their alleged misuse, alongside concerns about minority rights and freedom of expression.
• Source: The Indian Express

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About UNHRC and Its Observations on India

• Definition/Description:
  The UNHRC is an intergovernmental body within the United Nations that works to promote and protect human rights globally. It reviews member states’ compliance through mechanisms like the Universal Periodic Review (UPR).
• Background:
  • India’s Counter-Terrorism Laws:
    • The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) allows authorities to designate individuals as terrorists and arrest them without charge for extended periods.
    • It has been criticized for alleged misuse and weak safeguards against wrongful detention.
  • Freedom of Expression:
    • Concerns have been raised about restrictions on press freedom and growing online censorship under laws like the IT Rules, 2021.
• Key Aspects:
  • UNHRC’s Concerns:
    • Alleged suppression of dissent through restrictive laws.
    • Marginalization of minority groups and erosion of social harmony.
  • India’s Response:
    • The government defends these laws as essential for national security and preventing extremism.
    • Stressed the country’s commitment to a pluralistic and democratic framework.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • Indian Constitution:
    • Articles 19, 21, and 25 ensure freedom of expression, right to life, and religious freedom.
  • UAPA, 1967: Defines unlawful activities and prescribes penalties for terrorist acts.
  • IT Rules, 2021: Governs digital platforms and content regulation.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Misuse Allegations:
    • Arbitrary arrests and delays in trials under UAPA highlight judicial bottlenecks.
    • Media and activists allege undue suppression of dissent.
  • Balance Between Security and Freedom:
    • Policymakers face challenges in balancing the need for stringent anti-terror laws with protecting individual liberties.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • India argues that robust counter-terrorism measures are critical given its internal security challenges.
    • However, perceptions of declining press freedom and rising communal tensions hurt India’s global image.
  • Global Perspective:
    • Internationally, similar concerns have been raised against other democracies (e.g., Patriot Act in the U.S.) for their security laws.
• Future Prospects:
  • Judicial Oversight:
    • Introducing stricter safeguards to prevent misuse of counter-terrorism laws.
  • Dialogue on Human Rights:
    • Strengthening engagement with UN bodies to address gaps while maintaining sovereignty.
  • Technology and Transparency:
    • Leveraging digital platforms for real-time judicial reviews and improved accountability.

Source

• The Indian Express

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10. World Trade Organization’s Role in Global Trade

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Subject and UPSC Paper

• Subject: International Trade and Economy
• UPSC Mains Paper: GS-III (Economic Development, International Relations)

Why in News?

• The WTO’s ministerial conference debated critical issues, including reforms in global trade rules, dispute resolution mechanisms, and subsidies.
• Source: The Hindu

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About the WTO and Its Current Challenges

• Definition/Description:
  The World Trade Organization (WTO) is an intergovernmental organization that regulates international trade, aiming to reduce trade barriers and resolve disputes among member nations.
• Background:
  • Relevance:
    • The WTO has faced criticism for its inability to address emerging global trade challenges, such as digital trade, subsidies, and the dominance of major economies.
  • India’s Role:
    • India has been vocal about protecting the interests of developing nations, especially in areas like agriculture and technology transfer.
• Key Aspects:
  • Key Issues at the Conference:
    • Dispute Settlement Mechanism: The appellate body remains non-functional, stalling trade dispute resolutions.
    • Subsidies and Protectionism: Developed nations are accused of using non-tariff barriers to limit competition.
    • Climate-Linked Trade Measures: Policies like the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) are seen as discriminatory by developing nations.
  • India’s Stand:
    • Advocates for a fair and equitable trade regime.
    • Opposes stringent environmental measures that disproportionately affect developing economies.
• Regulatory or Legal Framework:
  • WTO Agreements:
    • General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT): Focuses on trade in goods.
    • Agreement on Agriculture (AoA): Regulates agricultural subsidies and market access.
• Current Challenges/Issues:
  • Relevance of the WTO:
    • Critics argue that the WTO has failed to adapt to changing global trade dynamics, such as the rise of e-commerce and digital trade.
  • Protectionism:
    • Increasing use of trade measures like anti-dumping duties and subsidies by major economies threatens free trade.
  • Developing vs. Developed Nations:
    • Tensions persist over issues like public stockholding for food security and technology access.
• Global or Indian Context:
  • Indian Context:
    • India defends its agricultural subsidies and public stockholding policies, emphasizing food security.
    • India’s growing tech sector also makes digital trade a key focus in WTO negotiations.
  • Global Perspective:
    • The WTO’s ability to enforce rules and promote equitable trade remains under scrutiny.
• Future Prospects:
  • Reforms in WTO:
    • Reviving the appellate body and streamlining dispute resolution processes.
    • Addressing climate-linked trade barriers and creating frameworks for digital trade.
  • India’s Role:
    • Strengthening coalitions with other developing countries to ensure a balanced global trade system.

Source

• The Hindu