SUPERCONDUCTIVITY
A group of scientists affiliated with research institutes in China and Japan have reported finding a sign of superconductivity in a material that was at the centre of a controversy last year over similar claims.
Their study is described in a preprint paper they uploaded to the internet on January 2. (A preprint is a paper the authors have finished writing and is yet to be peer-reviewed.)
While the study has already drawn some attention in the scientific community, the researchers who conducted it and others are proceeding with caution – some rooted in the superconductivity controversies that erupted last year and some in the study itself
- Superconductivity refers to a state in which a material offers zero, or near-zero, resistance to electric current.
- A current is nothing but the movement of charged particles, electrons in most cases, in a particular direction.
- When the electrons move, they collide, and interact, with other atoms in the material
- Elimination of this resistance can result in super-efficient electrical appliances, removal of transmission losses in power cables, and massive gains in energy
- Superconducting materials show very interesting behaviour under magnetic field which allows the functioning of systems like the MRI scan machine and the superfast Maglev trains that float above the tracks.
- Superconductors have very critical uses in a wide variety of other scenarios as well
- As of now, superconductivity can be achieved only at very low temperatures, more than 250 degree Celsius below zero, very close to absolute zero which is – 273 degree Celsius.
- The first material to have been discovered to show super conductive properties was Mercury, which becomes a superconductor at close to 270 degree Celsius below zero
- Most of the other materials commonly used as superconductors – Lead, Aluminum, Tin, Niobium, and several others – also become superconducting at comparable temperatures, called critical temperature
- In some cases, materials can exhibit superconductivity at slightly higher temperatures as well, but under increased pressure conditions
- It is all about creating the right kind of conditions for the electrons in the material to move without resistance, and a variety of tweaks are experimented with depending upon the internal atomic structure of the material.
- Even the materials that are classified as ‘high-temperature’ superconductors, as of now, show superconductive properties only well below -150 degrees Celsius
- There have been claims for superconductivity at much higher temperatures, in some cases, above zero degree Celsius as well, but these are either contested or require extreme pressure conditions
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For Prelims: Conductors, Insulators, Conductivity, Electrons
For Mains: 1.Discuss the significance of superconductors in modern technology and their potential applications in various sectors like energy, transportation, and medicine. What challenges need to be overcome to realize their full potential?
2.Explain the principles of superconductivity and the factors that influence the critical temperature of superconducting materials. Discuss the different types of superconductors and their unique properties
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GDP AND GVA
1. Context
2. Statistics
- In the current year, the overall demand by people is expected to grow by 4.4%. This is similar to the CAGR (4.5%) in the second term of the Modi government but is substantially lower than the growth rate in the first term (7.1%).
Muted private consumption is made worse by growing inequality — consumption in some parts of the economy (say, the urban rich) has grown quite fast while large sections of the economy (especially rural India) haven’t yet recovered enough. While people should not consume more than their income, the muted performance of the biggest engine of growth is a matter of concern - A high rate of investment spending is considered a salutary signal for the prospects of an economy because it shows businesses are optimistic about future consumption demand. On the face of it, investments have grown by 9.3% in the current financial year, thus helping to push up the CAGR in the second term (5.6%) closer to the CAGR in the first (7.3%).
- However, there are two lingering concerns: one, a large part of the investment spending is still coming from the government and, two, private consumption is still muted
3. GDP and GVA
- GDP and GVA are two main ways to ascertain the country's economic performance. Both are measures of national income.
- The GDP measures the monetary measure of all "final" goods and services that are bought by the final user produced in a country in a given period.
- The GDP does this by adding up the total expenditures in the economy; in other words, it looks at who spent how much. That is why GDP captures the total "demand" in the economy.
- All the money Indians spent on their private consumption (that is, Private Final Consumption Expenditure or PFCE).
- All the money the government spent on its current consumption, such as salaries (Government, Final Consumption Expenditure or GFCE).
- All the money is spent towards investments to boost the economy's productive capacity. This includes business firms investing in factories or the governments building roads and bridges (Gross Fixed Capital Expenditure).
- The net effect of exports (What foreigners spent on our goods) and imports (what Indians spent on foreign goods) (Net Exports or NE).
- The GVA calculates the same national income from the supply side.
- It does so by adding up all the value added across different sectors.
| According to the RBI, the GVA of a sector is defined as the value of output minus the value of its intermediary inputs. This "value added" is shared among the primary factors of production, labour and capital. |
- By looking at GVA growth one can understand which sector of the economy is robust and which is struggling.
4. How are the two related?
- When looking at quarterly it is best to look at GVA data because this is the observed data.
- The GDP is derived by looking at the GVA data.
| The GDP and GVA are related by the following equation; GDP= (GVA)+ (Taxes earned by the Government)- (Subsidies provided by the government). |
- As such, if the taxes earned by the government are more than the subsidies it provides, the GDP will be higher than GVA.
- Typically, that is how it is. For the second quarter too, the GDP (at 38, 16, 578 crores) is much higher than the GVA (Which is at Rs 35, 05, 5999 crores).
- The GDP data is more useful when looking at annual economic growth and when one wants to compare a country's economic growth with its past or with another country.
5. GVA data
5.1 Manufacturing sector
- It is a contraction in the manufacturing sector. In Q2, manufacturing GVA declined by 4.3 per cent.
- This is significant because manufacturing carries a huge potential for job creation and can soak up excess labour from the agriculture sector.
- The contraction has meant that manufacturing GVA has grown by just 6.3 per cent over the three years since the Covid pandemic; look at the change between FY23 and FY20 in the Chart.
- However, it would be a mistake to believe that only Covid and its after-effects are responsible for the lacklustre manufacturing performance.
- The fact is, as borne by the data, manufacturing GVA grew by just 10.6 per cent between FY 17 and FY20.
- For perspective, it is important to remember that between FY14 and FY17, manufacturing GVA grew by 31.3 per cent.
- In other words, Indian manufacturing has been struggling to add value for the past six years.
- This would explain why data from the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) shows that jobs in the manufacturing sector halved between 2016 and 2020.
5.2 Trade and hotels
- Almost 15 per cent growth in services such as trade and hotels etc.
- This is also a huge sector for job creation. But again, if one looks at the Q2FY23 level and compares it to the pre-Covid level (Q2 of FY20), the growth is barely over 2 per cent.
- That this sector grew by over 26 per cent in the three years between FY17 and FY20 when India was experiencing a serious economic declaration shows how badly it has been affected by the Covid disruption.
5.3 Mining and quarrying
- Another sector crucial for job creation, even though it is smaller in terms of overall contribution to India's GVA, is mining and quarrying it, too, has contracted by almost 3 per cent.
- Looking back over the past six years, it has contracted by 3.5 per cent between FY17 and FY20 and grown by just 2.5 per cent since then.
5.4 Agriculture
- One positive story emerging from the GVA pertains to agriculture (along with forestry and fishing), which has done better than expected by growing at 4.6 per cent.
- Typically, this is a good growth rate for this sector and has happened despite some worries that the sowing of crops did not happen in time.
- Overall, while the GVA has grown by 5.6 per cent year-on-year, the growth is just 7.6 per cent when compared to the pre-Covid level set in FY20.
6. GDP data
6.1 Private Consumption Expenditure
- GDP is the biggest engine of growth in private consumption expenditure.
- It typically contributes over 55 per cent of India's total GDP.
- This component is also crucial because if this is depressed, it robs the business of any incentive to make fresh investments; and expenditures towards investments are the second biggest contributors to the GDP, accounting for around 33per cent of the total.
- Data shows that private consumption has grown by a healthy 9.7 per cent over the past year.
- However, the growth is relatively modest just 11 per cent when compared over the last three years.
- That between FY 14 and FY17, this component grew by almost 28 per cent providing some perspective.
6.2 Investment expenditure
- The investment expenditures have grown by 10.4 per cent over FY21 and by almost 21 per cent between FY20 and FY23.
- This is the best growth over any three years going back to FY14.
- This suggests brighter prospects for the economy over the medium term.
6.3 Government final consumption expenditures
- The biggest surprise though from the GDP is the contraction in government final consumption expenditures.
- While these types of expenditures account for just about 10-11 per cent of the GDP, they can prop up an economy during tough times when people and businesses hold back spending.
- Oddly enough, data shows that not only did government consumption expenditure contract by 4.4. per cent in Q2 (Over the Q2 of 2021), but that it is almost 20 per cent below the pre-covid level.
6.4 Net Exports data
- The last component of the GDP equation is the Net Exports data.
- Typically, since India imports far more than it exports, the NX value is negative.
- In Q2, this negative value swelled by 89 per cent.
- Over the past three years, this drag on GDP has also increased in size by almost 150 per cent.
For Prelims and Mains
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For Prelims: GDP, GVA, India's economic growth data, Net Exports data, Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), Government final consumption expenditures, Investment expenditure, Private Consumption Expenditure, Mining and quarrying, Agriculture, Trade and hotels, Manufacturing sector,
For Mains:
1. What is the difference between GDP and GVA and discuss their contributions to National development? (250 Words)
2. What are the engines of GDP growth? Explain the factors influencing economic growth. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1.With reference to Indian economy, consider the following statements: (UPSC GS1, 2015)
1. The rate of growth of Real Gross Domestic Product has steadily increased in the last decade. 2. The Gross Domestic Product at market prices (in rupees) has steadily increased in the last decade. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Answer (b)
2.A decrease in tax to GDP ratio of a country indicates which of the following? (UPSC GS1, 2015)
1. Slowing economic growth rate 2. Less equitable distribution of national income Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Answer (a)
UPSC Mains Question
1.Define potential GDP and explain its determinants. What are the factors that have been inhibiting India from realizing its potential GDP? (UPSC GS3, 2020) 2.Explain the difference between computing methodology of India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) before the year 2015 and after the year 2015. (UPSC GS3, 2021) |
SUPREME COURT LEGAL SERVICES COMMITTEE (SCLSC)
- The formation of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee, as mandated by Section 3A of the Legal Services Authorities Act of 1987, aims to offer legal assistance to the disadvantaged sectors of society within matters falling under the jurisdiction of the highest court. As per Section 3A, the Central Authority, represented by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), is responsible for establishing this committee.
- Its composition includes a presiding Supreme Court judge as the chairperson and other members possessing qualifications and expertise specified by the governing body. Both the chairperson and other members are appointed by the Chief Justice of India (CJI), who also holds the authority to designate the Committee's Secretary
- The Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC) comprises Chairperson BR Gavai and nine individuals chosen by the CJI.
- Additionally, the Committee holds the authority to hire personnel and staff members as outlined by the central guidelines, following discussions with the CJI.
- Moreover, Rule 10 of the NALSA Rules from 1995 specifies the quantity, expertise, and credentials expected of SCLSC members.
- As outlined in Section 27 of the 1987 Act, the central government is authorized to establish regulations, through notification and in consultation with the CJI, to enforce the provisions of the Act
4.What the Legal Services Authorities Act says?
- The Legal Services Authorities Act of 1987 was introduced to establish a legal foundation for legal aid programs. Its primary goal is to offer competent and cost-free legal services to various eligible segments of society, encompassing women, children, SC/ST and EWS categories, industrial laborers, individuals with disabilities, among others.
- This Act led to the formation of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in 1995, tasked with overseeing the execution of legal aid initiatives, setting guidelines for accessible legal services, and creating a nationwide framework for dispensing legal aid and support.
- NALSA also allocates funds and grants to State Legal Services Authorities (SLSAs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) for the implementation of legal aid programs. Consequently, State Legal Services Authorities were established in each state to execute NALSA's policies, deliver free legal services, and conduct Lok Adalats.
- These authorities, led by the Chief Justice of the respective High Court, have the senior High Court judge as their Executive Chairman, with the HC Chief Justice serving as the chief patron of the SLSA and the CJI as the chief patron of NALSA.
- Furthermore, District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) and Taluk Legal Services Committees were instituted in districts and most taluks, respectively.
- Positioned within the District Courts Complex in each district, DLSAs are overseen by the District Judge. Taluk or Sub-Divisional Legal Services Committees, headed by a senior civil judge, were established in most taluks.
- Together, these entities organize legal awareness programs, furnish free legal services, facilitate the acquisition and issuance of certified order copies and other legal documents, among other duties
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Previous Year Questions
1.In India, Legal Services Authorities provide free legal services to which of the following types of citizens? (UPSC CSE 2015)
1. A person with an annual income of less than Rs.1,00,000
2. Transgender with an annual income of less than Rs. 2,00,000
3. Member of Other Backward Classes (OBC) with an annual income of less than Rs. 3,00,000 4. All Senior Citizens
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A.1 and 2 only
B.3 and 4 only
C.2 and 3 only
D.1 and 4 only
Answer (A)
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GLOBAL WARMING
1. Context
Heavy rains have hit France, England, Netherlands and Germany for more than two weeks, causing rivers to burst their banks in many areas, flooding homes and prompting evacuations.
While rain this time of year in these regions isn’t unusual, it’s the intensity of the downpour that has set off alarm bells among experts. They suggest a combination of factors, including global warming, rising sea levels, and ageing flood defence systems have led to the deluge in the countries
2. The difference in Temperature rise
- Temperature rises over land is much higher than over oceans. Overland the annual mean temperatures have risen by as much as 1.59 degree Celsius since preindustrial times, according to the latest report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
- Oceans, in contrast, have warmed by about 0.88 degree Celsius. The warming trends over the Indian region are very different.
- An assessment of climate change over the Indian subcontinent, published by the Ministry of Earth Sciences in 2020, said annual mean temperatures had risen by 0.7 degree Celsius from 1900.
- This is significantly lower than the 1.59 degree Celsius rise for land temperatures across the world. It could give the impression that the problem of climate change in India was not as acute as in other parts of the world. But that is not entirely accurate.
3. Why is warming over India is lower?
- The relatively lower rise in temperatures over India is not a surprise. Also, India is not a special case. The increase in temperatures is known to be more prominent in the higher altitudes, near the polar regions, than near the equator.
- This is attributable to a complex set of atmospheric phenomena, including heat transfers from the tropics to the poles through prevailing systems of air circulation. India happens to be in the tropical region, quite close to the equator.
- A substantial part of the difference between the temperature rise over India and that over the entire world can be explained by understanding what the different numbers represent.
- The planet as a whole has warmed by 1.1 degree Celsius compared with preindustrial times.
- But, as mentioned earlier, this is just the average. Different regions have seen very different levels of warming.
- The polar regions, particularly the Arctic, have seen significantly greater warming. The IPCC report says the Arctic region has warmed at least twice as much as the world average.
- Its current annual mean temperatures are about 2 degrees Celsius higher than pre-industrial times. Some other studies suggest the Arctic could be warming even faster.
- Again, this happens because of a variety of reasons, including the processes mentioned earlier. Another prominent cause is what is known as the albedo effect, or how much sunlight a surface reflects. The ice cover in the Arctic is melting, because of which more land or water is getting exposed to the Sun.
- Ice traps the least amount of heat and reflects most of the solar radiation when compared with land or water.
- More recent research suggests that the higher warming in the polar region could be attributed to a host of factors, including the albedo effect, changes in clouds, water vapour, and atmospheric temperatures.
- The warming in the polar regions accounts for a substantial part of the 1.1-degree Celsius temperature rise over the entire globe.
4. Higher warming over land than oceans
- However, the 0.7 degree Celsius temperature rise over India has to be compared with the warming seen over land areas, not the entire planet.
- As mentioned, land areas have become warmer by 1.59 degree Celsius. Land areas tend to get heated faster and by a larger amount, than oceans.
- Daily and seasonal variations in heating over land and oceans are usually explained in terms of their different heat capacities. Oceans have a higher capacity to cool themselves down through the process of evaporation.
- The warmer water evaporates, leaving the rest of the ocean relatively cooler. However, longer-term enhanced heating trends over land have to be attributed to other, more complicated, physical processes involving land-ocean-atmospheric interactions.
5. Impact of Aerosols
- Aerosols refer to all kinds of particles suspended in the atmosphere. These particles have the potential to affect the local temperature in multiple ways.
- Many of these scatter sunlight back, so that lesser heat is absorbed by the land. Aerosols also affect cloud formation.
- Clouds, in turn, have an impact on how much sunlight is reflected or absorbed.
Aerosol concentration in the Indian region is quite high, due to natural as well as man-made reasons. - Due to its location in the tropics and the arid climate, India is no stranger to dust. But it also happens to be experiencing heavy pollution right now.
- Emissions from vehicles, industries, construction, and other activities add a lot of aerosols to the Indian region. A reduction in warming could be an unintended but positive side effect.
| For Prelims: Global Warming, Intercontinental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Aerosols, Albedo, Climate change, and land-ocean-atmospheric interactions. |
Previous year Questions
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1. In the context of mitigating the impending global warming due to anthropogenic emissions of carbon dioxide, which of the following can be the potential sites for carbon sequestration? (UPSC 2017)
1. Abandoned and uneconomic coal seams
2. Depleted oil and gas reservoirs
3. Subterranean deep saline formations
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3 only
Answer: D
2. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017)
1. Climatic and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants is a unique initiative of the G20 group of countries.
2. The CCAC focuses on methane, black carbon, and hydrofluorocarbons.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D.Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B
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GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION TAG
1. Context
2. About Geographical Indication (GI) Tag
- A Geographical Indication (GI) is a label that is applied to products that have a specific geographical origin and that have characteristics related to that particular location.
- For Example, a GI tag for Amroha Dholak indicates that the dholaks must be made in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, using traditional methods and materials.
3. Importance of GI Tag
- GI tags are important because they help to produce the reputation and authenticity of products from a particular region.
- They also help to promote fair trade and sustainable practices. In the case of the seven products from Uttar Pradesh that have received GI tags, these tags will help to ensure that these products are made using traditional methods and that they are of high quality.
- This will benefit the artisans who make these products and it will also help to preserve the unique cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh.
4. Products from Uttar Pradesh Get GI Tag
4.1. Amroha Dholak
- It is a musical instrument crafted from natural wood, particularly mango, jackfruit and teakwood.
- Skilled artisans carve hollow blocks of various sizes and shapes from mango and sheesham trees, which are then fitted with animal skin, typically goatskin, to produce the instrument.
- It is produced by around 300 small units, employing over 1, 000 artisans. The Artisans Welfare Society in Mohalla Danishmandan, Amroha, Uttar Pradesh applied the GI Tag.
Image source: One district-one product4.2. Baghpat Home Furnishings
- Exquisite Handloom Craft The Directorate of Handloom and Textile Industries, Government of Uttar Pradesh and the Master Weavers Cooperative Society Limited applied the Baghpat Home Furnishings.
- Baghpat and Meerut are renowned for their exclusive handloom home furnishing products and the tradition of weaving cotton yarn fabrics for generations.
- The handloom weaving process in Baghpat is known for utilizing only cotton yarn and the distinctive frame loom technique.
Image source: One district-one product4.3. Barabanki Handloom Product
- A GI Tag for Traditional Weaving The Barabanki Handloom Product has also been honoured with a GI tag.
- The application for this product was filed by the Directorate of Handloom and Textile Industries, Government of Uttar Pradesh, along with Bhartiya Bunkar Sahkari Samiti Limited.
- The filing reveals that the Barabanki cluster comprises approximately 50, 000 weavers and 20, 000 looms in Barabanki and its adjoining areas.
- The annual turnover of this cluster is projected to be around ₹150 crores.
Image source: One district-one product4.4. Kalpi Handmade Paper
- An Age-old Craft application for the Kalpi Handmade Paper was submitted by the Hasht Nirmit Kagaj Samiti in the Industrial Estate of Kalpi, Uttar Pradesh.
- Kalpi has a rich history of handmade paper manufacturing. Munnalal Khaddari a Gandhian formally introduced the craft in the 1940s, although some locals claim its roots go even further back.
- The Kalpi handmade paper-making cluster engages over 5, 000 craftsmen and operates approximately 200 units.
Image Source: Magzter4.5. Mahoba Gaura Patthar Hastashlip
- Crafted from the Pyro Flight Stone Mahoba Gaura Pattar Hastashlip represents the stone craft of the region, specifically using the unique and delicate Pyro Flight Stone.
- This radiant white stone is predominantly found in Mahoba and is carved into various pieces to create stunning craft items.
Image Source: Jagran4.6. Manipuri Tarkashi
- Intricate Brass Wire Inlay Work on Wood Mainpuri Tarkashi is a popular art form originating from Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh.
- It involves intricate brass wire inlay work on wood. Traditionally, it was employed in the creation of Khadaous (wooden sandals) an essential household item when leather was considered unclean.
4.7. Sambhal Horn Craft
- Unique Handcrafted Art The Sambhal Horn Craft utilizes raw materials obtained from dead animals and showcases the skilful handiwork of artisans.
- This craft involves completely handmade creations and is recognized for its distinctiveness.
Image source: One district-one product
It is embroidered on an off-white coarse cloth with red, yellow and green coloured threads, with each colour holding significance. Green symbolises the mountains and hills, and yellow stands for peace and happiness. Red stands as the symbol of blood.
The art form belongs to the Lanjia Saura community, a PVTG largely residing in the Rayagada district. These paintings are in the form of exterior murals painted on the mud walls of homes. White paintings figure over a crimson-maroon background.
It is believed that the Lanjia Sauras paint their walls with Idital artworks to show gratitude to their deities and forefathers, and also for the well-being of their community. Reflecting the love and affection of the primitive tribes for nature, they feature subjects like tribal humans, trees, animals, birds, the Sun and the Moon.
4.10. Koraput Kala Jeera Rice
Nayagarh Kanteimundi Brinjal is known for its prickly thorns on the stems and the whole plant. The green and round fruits contain more seeds as compared to other genotypes. It is famous for its unique taste and relatively short quick cooking time. The plants are resistant to major insects and can be grown with minimal pesticide.
It is being widely cultivated in Nayagarh district of the state. The growers are getting a yield of up to 200 quintals per hectare and selling at around Rs 60 per kg. Historical records also suggest that the locals got the brinjal from the hilly areas. They collected seeds from it and started raising seedlings nearly 100 years ago
4.13.Odisha Khajuri Guda
Odisha’s “Khajuri Guda” or jaggery is a natural sweetener extracted from date palm trees and has its origin in the Gajapati district. Traditionally, the jaggery is prepared in a trapezoidal form called ‘Patali Gur’ and is organic by nature. It is dark brown and has a unique taste
4.14.Dhenkanal Magji
Dhenkanal Magji is a type of sweet made from cheese from buffalo milk, with distinct characteristics in terms of appearance, taste, flavour, shape, and size. It also has unique nutritional values that distinguish it from other cheese-based sweets.
Thousands of people were said to be earning their livelihood through animal husbandry, especially buffalo rearing, during the British era. The region was the hinterland of buffalo milk production and cheese was the third largest produce, after milk and curd. Mandar-Sadangi area of Gondia block is believed to be the centre of origin of the sweet stuff, which has now been spread to the entire district.
The sweet is prepared by draining moisture from the cheese and then frying it, finally forming balls from the mixture
5. Way forward
A marker of authentic products, the GI tags also help protect the interests of the local growers and artisans by preventing duplicity of the products and sale from unauthorised traders. Consumers, through the tags, can know which goods are certified
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For Prelims: Geographical Indication Tag, Uttar Pradesh, Amroha Dholak, Mahoba Gaura Patthar Hastashlip, Manipuri Tarkashi, Sambhal Horn Craft, Baghpat Home Furnishings, Barabanki Handloom Product, Kalpi Handmade Paper,
For Mains:
1. Discuss the potential economic and cultural benefits of obtaining GI tags for regional products in terms of enhancing their market value and preserving traditional knowledge. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions 1. Which of the following has/have been accorded 'Geographical Indication' status? (UPSC 2015) 1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees
2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma
3. Tirupathi Laddu
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
A. 1 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: C
2. India enacted The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in order to comply with the obligations to (UPSC 2018)
A. ILO B. IMF C. UNCTAD D. WTO
Answer: D
3. On the basis of 'one district one product' programme in Uttar Pradesh, which one of the following pairs is NOT correctly matched? (UPPSC Combined State Exam 2022)
A. Gautam Buddh Nagar - Readymade Garments
B. Amethi - Moonz Products
C. Agra - Leather Products
D. Baghpat - Wooden Toys
Answer: D
4. In which of the following states was the Monpa handmade paper making unit inaugurated in December 2020? (SSC CHSL 2021)
A. Manipur B. Tripura C. Assam D. Arunachal Pradesh
Answer: D
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HIT-AND-RUN LAWS
West Bengal and Punjab have staged protests against the recent legislation concerning hit-and-run incidents. Section 106 (2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS) stipulates a penalty of up to 10 years in jail and a fine for fleeing an accident spot and failing to report the incident to a police officer or a magistrate. This law is in addition to the colonial-era provision on causing death due to rash or negligent acts under Section 304A of the Indian Penal Code, 1860. Protestors are demanding the withdrawal or amendment of Section 106 (2), backed by the threat of a nationwide strike if their demands are not met. They argue that while strict action in hit-and-run cases is necessary, the new law has several flaws that need reconsideration.
2. Protests Erupt Over New Legislation
- The recent enactment of the new law has triggered widespread protests, particularly among truck drivers, creating disruptions across multiple states in India.
- In Maharashtra, the protest escalated significantly, with truck drivers staging roadblocks.
- The situation turned volatile, leading to incidents of stone-pelting that resulted in injuries to police personnel and damage to vehicles.
- Additionally, there are growing concerns about potential fuel shortages as a consequence of the ongoing unrest.
- Chhattisgarh experienced a similar upheaval, as approximately 12,000 private bus drivers initiated a strike. This widespread strike left commuters stranded in major cities and caused panic at petrol pumps due to the disruption in regular transportation services.
- The repercussions of the protests extended to other states like West Bengal, Punjab, and Madhya Pradesh, where normalcy has come to a grinding halt. These regions reported disruptions and standstills, further emphasizing the widespread impact of the protests against the newly introduced legislation.
3. Protesters' Demands and Concerns
- Transporters and commercial drivers have articulated several demands, expressing reservations about the recently enacted legislation on hit-and-run incidents.
- Protesters are particularly concerned that the new law imposes stringent punishment even in cases of unintentional accidents.
- Their primary objection revolves around the severe penalty of 10 years imprisonment and a ₹7 lakh fine for drivers who flee the accident scene without reporting it.
- They argue that such penalties fail to account for the challenging work conditions they face, including long driving hours and difficult road conditions.
- Transporters contend that the prescribed punishment is excessive and does not take into consideration the practical challenges of their profession.
- They highlight factors beyond a driver's control, such as poor visibility due to fog, which may contribute to accidents.
- Additionally, drivers fear mob violence if they stop to assist the injured at accident sites, further fueling their opposition to the law.
- Protesters express a general perception that drivers are often unfairly blamed for accidents, irrespective of the actual circumstances.
- They argue that the punishment outlined by the law is disproportionate and does not align with the realities of road transport and the unpredictable nature of accidents.
- Concerns are raised about the potential misuse of the law by law enforcement agencies to the detriment of drivers.
- Protesters fear that harsh penalties could be leveraged against them unfairly, jeopardizing their livelihoods and tarnishing the reputation of the transport industry as a whole.
- There is a shared apprehension that such stringent measures might dissuade individuals from entering or continuing in the transportation profession.
4. Rationale Behind the New Legislation
- The introduction of the new law is underscored by the alarming figures about road accidents in India, highlighting the imperative need for stringent measures to address the crisis.
- The backdrop of the new legislation is framed by unsettling figures related to road accidents in India. In 2022, the country witnessed the highest count of road crash fatalities, surpassing 1.68 lakh deaths.
- This translates to an average of 462 deaths daily, pointing towards a critical and pervasive issue.
- Despite a global decrease of 5% in road crash deaths, India experienced a concerning year-on-year increase of 12% in road accidents and 9.4% in fatalities in the same year.
- The gravity of the situation is further emphasized by the fact that the country averages 19 deaths every hour due to road accidents, equating to nearly one death every three and a half minutes.
- More than half of all road fatalities occurred on national and State highways, constituting less than 5% of the total road network. This statistic underscores the critical need for interventions, especially on major road arteries.
- Despite possessing only 1% of the world's vehicles, India accounts for approximately 10% of crash-related deaths globally.
- The economic toll is significant, with India incurring an annual loss of 5-7% of its GDP due to road crashes, highlighting the multifaceted impact of the road safety crisis.
5. The Morality Behind the Hit-and-Run Law
The new legislation addressing hit-and-run incidents is underpinned by a fundamental principle, responding to the alarming statistics and societal concerns surrounding road accidents in India.
Expressive Function for Deterrence
The law, reflected in the context of 47,806 recorded hit-and-run incidents resulting in 50,815 deaths in 2022, seeks to serve an expressive function. One key aspect is the deterrence of drivers from engaging in rash and negligent driving practices that may lead to fatalities. The principle here is to emphasize the gravity of the offence and discourage reckless behaviour on the roads through the imposition of stringent punishment.
Positive Obligation and Reporting Duty
On the other side, the law introduces a positive obligation on the part of the offender. If an individual causes death due to rash and negligent driving, attempting to escape legal consequences triggers penalties. The law mandates reporting such incidents to the police or magistrate, and there are provisions to criminalize any omission in fulfilling this duty. This legal duty arises from a legislative intent to translate moral responsibility into a legal obligation, reinforcing accountability towards the victim of a road accident.
Precedents in Motor Vehicle Legislation
This conversion of moral responsibility into a legal duty is not novel in the realm of motor vehicle accidents. For instance, Section 134 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, obliges the driver to take reasonable steps to secure medical attention for the injured, emphasizing the ethical responsibility in the aftermath of an accident. Additionally, the question of whether an offender fled the accident spot has been identified as a significant factor in the framework for motor accident claims, as illustrated by the case of Rajesh Tyagi versus Jaibir Singh (2021) formulated by the Delhi High Court.
6. Assessment of Protests and Legal Misconceptions
The ongoing protests against Section 106 (2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) have been driven by certain misconceptions, raising questions about the justification of the demonstrations.
Misconceptions Regarding Penalties
Contrary to widely circulated beliefs, Section 106 (2) of the BNS does not explicitly state a fine of ₹7 lakh for fleeing an accident spot. While the section discusses a maximum punishment of 10 years and a fine, the specific amount of ₹7 lakh is not mentioned in the legislation. It is crucial to correct this misinformation to ensure an accurate understanding of the law.
Compensation Provision in Motor Vehicles Act
Section 161 of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, plays a role in compensating victims of hit-and-run accidents. The compensation provided for death is ₹2 lakh, and for cases of grievous hurt, it amounts to ₹50,000. Importantly, this compensation is not recoverable from the drivers involved in the accidents, distinguishing it from the penalties outlined in Section 106 (2) of the BNS.
Distinction Between Sub-sections in Section 106
Section 106 of the BNS comprises two sub-sections. Sub-section 1 pertains to cases of rash or negligent driving where reporting the incident to the police results in a punishment of up to five years with a fine. In contrast, Sub-section 2 deals with instances where the driver fails to report the matter and attempts to escape, leading to a more severe punishment of up to 10 years. Notably, despite the increase in the quantum of punishment in Sub-section 2, the offence has not been categorized as non-bailable.
The protests, fueled by certain misconceptions, prompt a critical reassessment of the actual provisions of Section 106 (2) and the necessity for accurate dissemination of legal information.
7. Proposed Revisions for Equitable Treatment
Moving forward, there is a pressing need to review and reconcile Sections 106 (1) and (2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) to ensure fair treatment for the vast number of truck drivers and individual vehicle drivers across the country.
Challenges with Existing Categorization
The existing categorization under Section 106 (1) of the BNS, offering exceptions for doctors in cases of rash or negligent acts with a punishment of up to two years and a fine, raises concerns about equality and fairness. This limited categorization, while beneficial for doctors, overlooks the varied liability scenarios in other professions, demanding a more inclusive approach.
Contested Nature of Section 106 (2)
Section 106 (2), specifically contested by truck drivers, warrants a reevaluation. One prominent issue is the lack of differentiation between rash and negligent driving, treating them as a single category. To establish a more nuanced and proportionate liability framework, these acts should be treated as distinct, each carrying different degrees of liability. This differentiation is crucial to avoid unjust prejudice against drivers in diverse circumstances.
Consideration of Contributory Factors
Determining liability should involve a comprehensive assessment of contributory factors in negligent acts, including commuter behaviour, road conditions, and lighting. Applying a one-size-fits-all approach under one clause can lead to unfair prejudice against drivers facing varying circumstances. A graded system based on liabilities is proposed to address these concerns.
Differentiated Scales for Penalties
Rather than a uniform 10-year imprisonment for all cases, a differentiated scale based on liabilities should be established. This approach would alleviate the apprehensions of drivers and contribute to a more just legal framework. Ambiguities within the clause should be clarified, explicitly stating that Section 106 (2) applies solely in cases of death resulting from an accident. Minor injuries should not be equated with criminal acts, and alternative measures such as community service, license revocation, or mandatory driving retests could be explored for road accidents resulting in less severe injuries.
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For Prelims: Section 106, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Section 304A, Indian Penal Code, Motor Vehicles Act, 1988
For Mains:
1. To what extent does the new hit-and-run law in India reflect a balance between public safety and individual rights, particularly for drivers? Discuss the underlying moral principles and potential challenges in achieving this balance. (250 Words)
2. Imagine you are a member of a government committee tasked with reviewing the hit-and-run law. Identify specific provisions you would recommend revising or amending, and explain your reasoning. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 states that 'subject to the provisions of Section 18, no person under the age of ______ years shall drive a transport vehicle in any public place'. (SSC GD Constable 2021)
A. 18 B. 20 C. 21 D. 16
2. The main function of Motor Vehicle Act is: (JKSSB 2021)
A. To conduct road investigations
B. To collect tax on fuel
C. To prepare standard specifications and reports
D. To regulate the road traffic in the form of traffic laws, ordinances and regulations
Answers: 1-A, 2-D
Mains
1. We are witnessing increasing instances of sexual violence against women in the country. Despite existing legal provisions against it, the number of such incidences is on the rise. Suggest some innovative measures to tackle this menace. (UPSC 2014) 2. Mob violence is emerging as a serious law and order problem in India. By giving suitable examples, analyze the causes and consequences of such violence. (UPSC 2015) 3. Instances of the President’s delay in commuting death sentences has come under public debate as denial of justice. Should there be a time specified for the President to accept/reject such petitions? Analyse. (UPSC 2014) 4. National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in India can be most effective when its tasks are adequately supported by other mechanisms that ensure the accountability of a government. In light of above observation assess the role of NHRC as an effective complement to the judiciary and other institutions in promoting and protecting human rights standards. (UPSC 2014) |
ECOWAS
Recent events in Niger, including a coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, have raised concerns globally. Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani was installed as the new head of state, with President Bazoum expressing alarm over challenging economic conditions. Notably, Niger sought assistance from Russia's Wagner Group, despite its recent fallout with Russian President Vladimir Putin. In response to the crisis, ECOWAS, a regional bloc, is considering various measures, including a potential military intervention.
2. What is ECOWAS?
ECOWAS, also known as CEDEAO, is a regional economic and political union established in 1975 to promote cooperation and integration among its 15 West African member states. These members, with a combined population of around 400 million, include Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Côte d'Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Senegal and Togo.
Key Objectives
- ECOWAS aims to create a single, large trading bloc by facilitating the free movement of goods, people, and capital across member states. This includes establishing a common currency and harmonizing policies in areas like industry, transport, telecommunications, energy, finance, and social and cultural matters.
- ECOWAS promotes democratic principles, the rule of law, and good governance within its member states. It has actively condemned recent coups in Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso, and suspended these countries from the bloc.
Structure and Leadership
- The highest decision-making body, chaired by the current Head of State and Government of a member state for one year.
- ECOWAS has various institutions like the Commission, Parliament, Community Court of Justice, and specialized agencies to implement its policies and programs.
Challenges
- Recent coups in some member states pose a significant challenge to ECOWAS's goals of stability and good governance.
- Poverty, inequality, and resource scarcity remain major issues in many member states.
- Violent extremism and terrorism threaten regional security and development.
3. ECOWAS's Role in the Region
Beyond its focus on economic integration, ECOWAS has played a crucial role in promoting stability and peace in West Africa. Its efforts have extended beyond just economic cooperation, including:
- ECOWAS established the ECOMOG regional peacekeeping force, which intervened in conflicts like Liberia's civil war and Sierra Leone's coup. This demonstrates its commitment to resolving regional conflicts through collective action.
- ECOWAS has actively supported democratic transitions in member states. Its intervention in The Gambia after the 2017 election refusal to concede by the incumbent president highlights its role in upholding democratic principles.
- ECOWAS works to address the root causes of conflict through initiatives focused on development, good governance, and human rights. This proactive approach aims to prevent conflicts before they erupt.
It's interesting to note that the current coup leader in Niger, Gen. Tchiani, previously served as an ECOWAS peacekeeper himself. This highlights the complex dynamics at play in the region, where individuals with experience in peacekeeping efforts can also become involved in military actions.
4. ECOWAS Response to Niger Crisis
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is grappling with the complex situation in Niger, and while a military intervention appears to be under consideration, the regional grouping faces numerous challenges.
Neighboring Support and Military Justifications
Mali and Burkina Faso, both under military juntas, have declared solidarity by sending a delegation to Niger. They emphasize that an attack on Niger would be perceived as an attack on them. The military coups in these neighbouring countries have been justified by pointing to the increasing influence of terrorist forces and security challenges, which, according to military leaders, the civilian establishments were incapable of handling. Criticism has also been directed at Western involvement in addressing these issues.
Terrorist Threat and Humanitarian Concerns
President Omar Alieu Touray of the ECOWAS Commission reported to the UN Security Council that the region witnessed 1,814 incidents of terrorist attacks resulting in 4,593 fatalities from January 1 to June 30, 2023. By the end of April 2023, half a million refugees were recorded in the region, underscoring the severity of the humanitarian crisis.
Economic Sanctions and Foreign Relations
The effectiveness of longstanding economic sanctions imposed by ECOWAS is in doubt, given the low economic growth prospects in the affected countries. France, a former colonizer of Niger, has halted aid following the coup. The presence of over 2,000 troops from France and the US has stirred local discontent, leading to anti-France sentiments expressed through graffiti and slogans.
Internal Struggles for Military Intervention
Internally, launching a military attack poses challenges. Nigeria, a neighbouring country, currently holds the chair of the ECOWAS bloc, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu leading the call for military intervention. However, the Nigerian Senate has resisted approving Tinubu's request for military deployment, introducing further complexities to the situation. The internal dynamics within ECOWAS may impact the feasibility and nature of any potential intervention.
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For Prelims: ECOWAS, Nigeria, UN Security Council
For Mains:
1. What are the key objectives of ECOWAS, and how does it aim to achieve a single, large trading bloc among its member states? Discuss the challenges it faces in realizing these objectives. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. In the recent years Chad, Guinea, Mali and Sudan caught international attention for which one of the following reasons is common to all of them? (upsc 2023) (a) Discovery of rich deposits of rare earth elements 2. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2018) Regions sometimes
mentioned in the news Country
1. Catalonia Spain 2. Crimea Hungary 3. Mindanao Philippines 4. Oromia Nigeria Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? A. 1, 2 and 3 B. 3 and 4 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 2 and 4 only
3. With reference to the "United Nations Credentials Committee", consider the following statements: (UPSC 2022)
1. It is a committee set up by the UN Security Council and works under its supervision.
2. It traditionally meets in March, June and September every year.
3. It assesses the credentials of all UN members before submitting a report to the General Assembly for approval.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 3 only B. 1 and 3 C. 2 and 3 D. 1 and 2
4. In the UN Security Council there are: (NTPC 2021)
A. 10 permanent and 10 non-permanent members
B. 5 permanent and 10 non-permanent members
C. 5 permanent and 5 non-permanent members
D. 10 permanent and 5 non-permanent members
Answers:1-D, 2-C, 3-A, 4- B
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