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DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS, 18 JUNE 2024

PROJECT CHEETAH

 

1. Context

The Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary will be the second home for cheetahs in India, after the Kuno National Park. The Madhya Pradesh government has announced that it has completed its preparations for the ambitious project.

2. Why was Project Cheetah launched?

  • India's cheetah relocation program is perhaps among the most ambitious of its kind in the world.
  • The attempt is to, over the next decade, bring in five to 10 animals every year until a self-sustaining population of about 35 is established.
  • Unlike, cheetahs in South Africa and Namibia, which live in fenced reserves, India's plan is to have them grown in natural, unfenced, wild conditions.
  • At Kuno, only six of the 17 adults are in the wild with the rest lodged in large, specially designed enclosures to help the animals acclimatize to Indian conditions.
  • The plan is to release all the animals into the open by the yearend. The animals are radio-collared and tracked 24/7. 

3. How do cheetahs die?

  • The South African study also documented the causes of mortality, where it could be established, for 293 cheetah deaths.
  • It found that holding camps caused 6.5% of cheetah deaths, immobilization/ transit caused 7.5% of deaths, and another 0.7% were caused by tracking devices. This added up to almost 15%  so, one in every seven cheetah deaths was attributed to handling and management.
  • Predation turned out to be the biggest killer in the study, accounting for 53.2% of cheetah mortality. Lions, leopards, hyenas, and jackals were primarily responsible. Several other wildlife including warthogs, baboons, snakes, elephants, crocodiles, vultures, zebras, and even ostriches killed cheetahs.
  • It is well documented that cheetahs suffer very high cub mortality up to 90% in protected areas mainly due to predation. Consequently, nearly 80% of all cheetahs throughout their range in Africa are found living outside of protected parks and reserves.

4. Were these unfortunate cheetah deaths unexpected?

  • The Cheetah Project did anticipate high mortality. The criteria for the project’s short-term success was only “50% survival of the introduced cheetah for the first year”. That would be 10 out of 20.
  • As a result, the Madhya Pradesh government set a six-month deadline for readying Gandhisagar in the Chambal river valley in Mandsaur and Nimach districts for the cheetahs. There is also talk about moving a few animals from Kuno to the safety of an 80-sq-km fenced area in Rajasthan’s Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve.
  • The focus, therefore, is shifting from the project’s stated purpose that of establishing the cheetah in an open landscape as a free-roaming and self-sustaining population occupying thousands of square miles to managing the African imports as a few pocket populations in fenced-in or restricted areas.

5. How successful has Project Cheetah been so far?

  • In September 2023, it will be one year since a batch of eight cheetahs from Namibia arrived in India.
  • They were followed by 12 others from South Africa in February 2023. The official Cheetah Action Plan, the guiding document behind the project, observes that even half the cheetahs surviving the first year would be “an indicator of success”.
  • Independent critics have, however, argued that there are some basic flaws in the project. For one, it is a mistake to have had all 20 cheetahs at Kuno as there is too little space and prey, given that the animal is a courser and needs larger fields of play.
  • Some animals should have gone to the Mukundara reserve in Rajasthan. Forest officials in Madhya Pradesh have also admitted that they are stretched.
  • However, the officials in the National Tiger Conservation Authority, the nodal agency of the Environment Ministry tasked with coordinating the project, say that Kuno is capable of hosting the first lot of animals and future batches will be sent to other reserves.
  • The experience of raising cheetahs in fenced reserves in Africa can’t be replicated in India, say, experts, because India’s cultural values promote coexistence with beasts, and that underpinned the success of tiger, lion, and leopard conservation programs.
For Prelims: Kuno National Park, National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), Project Cheetah, Chambal river valley, and South Africa.

Previous year Question

1. Recently there was a proposal to translocate some of the lions from their natural habitat in Gujarat to which one of the following sites? (UPSC 2017)
A. Corbett National Park
B. Kuno Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary
C. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
D. Sariska National Park
Answer: B
Source: The Hindu
 

EL NINO AND LA NINA

 
 
1. Context
Hyderabad-based Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has developed a new product to predict the emergence of El Niño and La Niña conditions — they are different phases of El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) — up to 15 months in advance
 
2.What are El Niño and La Nina?
 
  • El Niño and La Niña, translating to “little boy” and “little girl” in Spanish, are climatic events arising from interactions between the ocean and atmosphere. They influence water temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, thereby affecting global weather patterns.
  • The Earth's rotation from east to west causes winds between 30 degrees north and south of the equator to tilt in their paths. This results in winds flowing southwest in the northern hemisphere and northwest in the southern hemisphere, a phenomenon known as the Coriolis Effect.
  • Consequently, trade winds blow westward on either side of the equator. Typically, these winds move west from South America towards Asia, leading to upwelling, where cold water from beneath the ocean surface rises, replacing warmer surface waters.
  • Occasionally, weakened trade winds shift back towards South America, preventing upwelling. This leads to warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures along the equatorial Pacific Ocean, marking the onset of El Niño conditions.
  • In contrast, during La Niña, stronger trade winds push warm water towards Asia, enhancing upwelling and bringing cold, nutrient-rich water to South America.
  • Thus, El Niño and La Niña represent opposite phases of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle, which also includes a neutral phase.
  • El Niño events are more common than La Niña ones, occurring every two to seven years when neutral ENSO conditions are disrupted by either phase. Recently, La Niña conditions were observed from 2020 to 2023
3.How could the incoming La Nina impact global weather?
 
  • Due to ENSO and the associated changes in ocean temperatures, air circulation in the region is also influenced. This, in turn, affects precipitation levels in nearby areas and has an impact on the Indian monsoon.
  • The current El Niño event, which started last June, has weakened considerably. It is anticipated that by June, neutral ENSO conditions will be in place. Following this, La Niña conditions are expected to develop, potentially starting to have an impact by August
4.La Nina’s impact on the world
  • Like India, countries such as Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and their neighbors experience abundant rainfall during a La Niña year. This year, Indonesia has already experienced flooding.
  • Conversely, droughts are common in the southern parts of North America, where winters tend to be warmer than usual.
  • Canada and the northwestern coast of the United States face heavy rainfall and flooding. Southern Africa experiences above-average rainfall, while the eastern regions of the continent receive below-average rainfall.
  • ENSO significantly influences hurricane activity over the Atlantic Ocean, with La Niña years typically seeing an increase in hurricanes. For example, in the La Niña year of 2021, the Atlantic Ocean saw a record 30 hurricanes
5.Is climate change affecting ENSO?
  • In India, El Niño is known to reduce southwest monsoon rainfall, leading to higher temperatures and more intense heatwaves, as seen this summer.
  • Historically, monsoon seasons following an El Niño, such as in 1982-1983 and 1987-1988, saw abundant rainfall in 1983 and 1988. A similar pattern may occur this year.
  • From 2020 to 2023, the longest La Niña event of the century took place. This was followed by ENSO neutral conditions, which transitioned to El Niño by June 2023.
  • However, El Niño has been weakening since last December. According to Rajeevan, this rapid shift to La Niña is a natural occurrence and has happened many times in the past.
  • Scientists suggest that climate change will impact the ENSO cycle. Various studies indicate that global warming may alter the average oceanic conditions in the Pacific Ocean, leading to more frequent El Niño events.
  • The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) also predicts that climate change will likely affect the intensity and frequency of extreme weather and climate events associated with El Niño and La Niña
 
 
 
Source: Indianexpress

SATNAMI

 
 
1. Context
Members of the Satnami religious sect set fire to the office of the Superintendent of Police and pelted the office of the District Collector with stones in Baloda Bazar in central Chhattisgarh on 10/06/2024 after alleged inaction over the desecration of a religious site at Amar Cave in the district
 
2. Who are Satnamis?
The Satnamis are a religious group that originated in northern India, particularly in the regions of Punjab, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh. They follow a monotheistic faith and believe in the worship of one God, referred to as "Satnam," which means "True Name."
Members of the predominantly Scheduled Caste Satnami community, also known as the Satnam Panth, primarily reside in Chhattisgarh and adjacent regions of Madhya Pradesh. The desecrated shrine, called Jaitkham, is situated approximately 5 kilometers from Giraud village in the Baloda Bazar district. This site marks the birthplace of Guru Ghasidas, an 18th-century saint who is regarded as the spiritual ancestor of the Chhattisgarh Satnamis
 
3. Early Satnamis 
  • Guru Ghasidas was born in 1756, but the origins of the Satnami sect date back even further. The term "sat naam" (meaning "true name") was popularized by the 15th-century Bhakti poet Kabir, though it likely originated earlier.
  • Kabir, who opposed idolatry and the rigid practices of organized religion, was a prominent figure in the nirguna bhakti tradition, which worships a formless, all-pervading Absolute. He frequently referred to this Absolute as "sat naam" or "satya naam" in his poetry.
  • In 1657, inspired by Kabir's teachings, a mendicant named Birbhan established a Satnami community in Narnaul, located in present-day Haryana.
  • According to Mughal court historian Khafi Khan (1664-1732), the Satnamis comprised "some four or five thousand householders in the pargana of Narnaul and Mewat," primarily engaged in agriculture and small-scale trade, similar to Banyas (tradesmen) with limited capital (Irfan Habib: The Agrarian System of Mughal India, 1556-1707)
  • Ritual and superstition were condemned, and allegiance was explicitly rendered to Kabir… Caste distinctions within the community of believers were forbidden… An attitude of sympathy with the poor and hostility towards authority and wealth is apparent [in Satnami preachings]
  • Initially, most Satnamis belonged to an “untouchable” caste engaged in leatherwork. The community has, however, moved away from the profession over time
4.Revolt against Aurangzeb
  • If anyone attempts to impose tyranny and oppression upon the Satnamis, they will not tolerate it; most of them are armed," wrote Khafi Khan.
  • In 1672, the Satnamis in what is now Punjab and Haryana revolted against Aurangzeb’s increasing tax demands. Irfan Habib described the revolt as originating from a rural conflict.
  • A Satnami working in his fields had a heated exchange with a Mughal foot soldier guarding a corn heap.
  • The soldier struck the Satnami on the head with his stick, injuring him. In response, a group of Satnamis attacked the soldier, nearly killing him.
  • When the local Mughal police chief sent troops to arrest those responsible, an open rebellion ensued.
  • The rebels temporarily took control of Narnaul and Bairat, but the Mughals eventually suppressed the uprising, killing thousands of Satnamis.
  • Despite their lack of weapons and equipment, the Satnamis fought valiantly, reminiscent of the epic battles in the Mahabharata, as recorded by Mughal chronicler Saqi Mustad Khan in the Maasir-i-Alamgiri
5. Revival under Ghasidas
  • Aurangzeb nearly eradicated the community, which would later experience a revival starting in the mid-eighteenth century — led by Jagjivandas in present-day Uttar Pradesh and Ghasidas in present-day Chhattisgarh.
  • Various theories exist regarding the influences on Ghasidas’ spiritual development, ranging from Sant Ravidas (15th or 16th century) to Kabir. However, according to religious studies scholar Ramdas Lamb in "Rapt in the Name: The Ramnamis, Ramnam, and Untouchable Religion in India" (2002), "most present-day Satnamis either deny or are unaware of any connection between Ghasidas and earlier Satnami movements" in northern India.
  • Nevertheless, Guru Ghasidas’ religious philosophy echoed that of the earlier Satnamis. As Lamb wrote, "his primary directive was the worship of a single true God through the chanting of His name, 'Satnam', and the rejection of idol worship." This rejection of deity worship allowed the Satnamis, who were considered 'untouchable', to circumvent temple-entry restrictions.
  • Ghasidas also instructed his followers to abstain from consuming meat (including eggplant, which resembles flesh), as well as alcohol, tobacco, and smoking. He advocated the use of brass utensils instead of clay, discouraged working with leather and animal carcasses and promoted wearing tulsi bead necklaces similar to those worn by Vaishnavas and Kabirpanthis. Additionally, he urged his followers to discard their caste names and adopt the name ‘Satnami’
6. Present Scenario of Satnami
 
  • At the time of Ghasidas’ death, his followers numbered around a quarter million, predominantly from a specific Scheduled Caste. He established a succession of gurus to lead the sect after him, beginning with his son Balakdas.
  • According to Lamb, by the late 1800s, a hierarchical organizational structure had developed, with the guru at the apex and several village-level priests below. This framework largely remains in place today. "These priests conducted marriages, resolved disputes, administered penance, and served as intermediaries within the organization."
  • Over time, many Satnamis adopted practices, beliefs, and rituals from caste-Hindu traditions, integrating themselves into the Hindu religious mainstream. Some began worshipping Hindu idols and claimed lineage from Rajputs or even Brahmins.
  • Today, Satnamis wield increasing political influence. Satnami leaders not only influence their sect but also hold sway over Chhattisgarh's entire Scheduled Caste population, which comprises 13%.
  • Historically aligned with the Congress party, since 2013, some Satnami gurus have switched their political allegiances multiple times. Consequently, the Satnami vote is now divided among various political parties in Chhattisgarh
 
Source: Indianexpress
 

PARIS AGREEMENT

1. Context

A climate meeting in Bonn, Germany, has failed to make much headway on the crucial issue of defining a new climate finance goal.

2. What is Paris Agreement?

  • Paris Agreement is a multinational agreement that was signed as part of the UNFCCC with the intention of reducing and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.
  • 196 nations ratified the climate change agreement at the Conference of the Parties (COP 21) in Paris in December 2015. It is an international agreement that is binding on all parties involved.
  • Achieving the long-term temperature goal was the purpose of the Paris Climate Accord. To attain a world without greenhouse gas emissions by the middle of the century, nations strive to peak global greenhouse gas emissions as soon as possible.
  • The Paris Climate Accord's major objective is to keep global warming well below 2° Celsius and ideally below 1.5° Celsius in comparison to pre-industrial levels.
  • The Paris Agreement is a watershed moment in the multilateral climate change process because it brings all nations together for the first time in a binding agreement to undertake ambitious efforts to combat climate change and adapt to its effects.

3. COP21

  • To keep the rise in the average world temperature to well under 2°C above pre-industrial levels. To continue making efforts to keep global warming to 1.5°C over pre-industrial levels, knowing that doing so would greatly lessen the dangers and effects of climate change.
  • The Agreement also mentions achieving the global peaking of emissions by the middle of the century while taking into account the fact that developing nation Parties will have a longer peaking period.

4. What are NDCs

  • At the Conference of the Parties (COP21) of the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which took place in Paris in December 2015, nations from all over the world pledged to establish a new global climate agreement by that time.
  • In advance of a new international agreement, nations have committed to publicly state their Intended Nationally Determined Contributions or the climate activities they plan to take after 2020.
  • The 2015 agreement's ambitious goals and whether the world is put on a course toward a low-carbon, climate-resilient future will be largely determined by the INDCs.
  • The Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) of India has also been submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
  • Countries communicate actions they will take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to meet the Paris Agreement's goals in their NDCs.
  • Countries also communicate actions they will take to build resilience to adapt to the effects of rising temperatures in their NDCs.
Image Source: The Hindu

5. Highlights of the report on the performance of the Paris Agreement

  • After the signing of the Agreement, the last eight years (2015-2022) have consecutively been the warmest years on record globally.
  • The situation could have been far worse if the La Nina weather event had not occurred in the past three years, which has a cooling effect on the weather system.
  • Globally updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius have failed even to achieve a 2-degree Celsius target.
  • The Paris Agreement has not been able to equitably phase out fossil fuels predominantly responsible for the climate crisis.
  • Neither the NDCs nor the disaster risk reduction and climate risk management plans are in place to combat climate-induced extreme weather phenomena.

6. A series of climate records fell over in 2022, the report showed. 

  • Global mean temperature rising: The global mean temperature in 2022 was 1.15°C, ranging from 1.02°C to 1.28°C above the 1850–1900 average. This was the highest on record for the past eight years. The value is about 0.2°C higher than the statistic before 2015. The pre-industrialisation era is considered a benchmark as there was no significant anthropogenic emission at the time.
  • Record melting of Antarctica ice: Sea ice in Antarctica dropped to an all-time low, 1.92 million square kilometres, on February 25, 2022. This was almost a million sq km below the mean of the last three decades till 2020. 
  • Greenhouse gases surged: The levels of three major greenhouse gases — carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide — continued to increase in 2022. The data shows that growth rates of all three gases have increased around 20 per cent compared to 2011-15 levels.
  • Sea level rise doubled: Global mean sea level continued to rise in 2022. It has doubled to 4.62 millimetres per year during 2013–2022 from 2.27 mm recorded in the first decade of the satellite record (1993–2002). The rate of increase quickened after 2015. Ocean heat content, which measures this gain in energy, reached a new observed record.
  • Record thinning of glaciers: Long-term observational data is available for glaciers, which were found to have thinned over 1.3 metres between October 2021 and October 2022. The loss is much larger than before. The cumulative thickness loss since 1970 amounts to almost 30 metres.
  • More than half of the oceans saw marine heatwaves in 2022:  Despite continuing La Nina conditions, 58 per cent of the ocean surface experienced at least one marine heatwave during 2022. 
  • Heatwaves killed 15,000 in Europe: Record-breaking heatwaves affected China and Europe during the summer, with excess deaths associated with the heat in Europe exceeding 15000. Casualties were reported across Spain, Germany, the United Kingdom, France and Portugal.
  • 1,600 suffered deaths from weather extremes in India: India suffered from significant flooding at various stages during monsoon, particularly in the northeast in June, with over 700 deaths reported from flooding and landslides and a further 900 from lightning.
For Prelims: Paris Agreement, Conference of the Parties (COP 21), World Meteorological Organization (WMO), UNFCCC, Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
For Mains: 1. Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (UPSC 2021)

 

Previous year Question

1. With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2016)

1. The Agreement was signed by all the member countries of the UN and it will go into effect in 2017.

2. The Agreement aims to limit greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in average global temperature by the end of this century does not exceed 2°C or even 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

3. Developed countries acknowledged their historical responsibility for global warming and committed to donate $1000 billion a year from 2020 to help developing countries cope with climate change.
 
Select the correct answer using the code given below
A. 1 and 3 only
B.  2 only
C.  2 and 3 only
D.  1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
 
2. The term ‘Intended Nationally Determined Contributions’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of ( UPSC 2016)

A. pledges made by the European countries to rehabilitate refugees from the war-affected Middle East

B. plan of action outlined by the countries of the world to combat climate change

C. capital contributed by the member countries in the establishment of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank

D. plan of action outlined by the countries of the world regarding Sustainable Development Goals

Answer: B

Source: Down to Earth

NOTIFIED DISASTER

 
 
 
1. Context
The ongoing spell of extreme heat in many parts of the country has once again reopened discussions on the inclusion of heatwaves as one of the notified disasters under the Disaster Management (DM) Act, 2005
 
2. What is a Notified Disaster?
 
  • A "Notified Disaster" refers to an event that has been officially recognized and declared by the government as a disaster under relevant legal and administrative frameworks. This formal notification typically allows for the activation of specific disaster response mechanisms and the allocation of resources to manage the situation
  • The DM Act was established following the 1999 Odisha super-cyclone and the 2004 tsunami. It characterizes a disaster as a “catastrophe, mishap, calamity or grave occurrence” resulting from “natural or man-made causes,” leading to significant loss of life, property damage, or environmental harm. Additionally, it must be of such a scale that it exceeds the community's ability to cope.
  • When such an event occurs, the DM Act’s provisions can be activated. These provisions allow states to access funds from two sources created by the Act — the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) at the national level and the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) at the state level.
  • Initially, states use the SDRF funds, and only when the disaster's severity surpasses the SDRF's capacity, do they seek resources from the NDRF
  • The NDRF is fully funded by the central government, while states are required to contribute 25% to the SDRF (10% for special category states), with the central government providing the remaining funds. These funds are exclusively designated for disaster response and management.
  • Presently, there are 12 disaster categories recognized under this Act: cyclones, drought, earthquakes, fires, floods, tsunamis, hailstorms, landslides, avalanches, cloudbursts, pest attacks, and frost and cold waves
In the FY 2023-24, only two states drew money from the NDRF
 
3. Why heatwaves were not included as notified disasters?
 
  • Although heatwaves have long been a common occurrence in India, particularly affecting large parts of northern, eastern, and central regions, they were not classified as a disaster when the DM Act was enacted in 2005.
  • This was because heatwaves were seen as typical summer events rather than unusual weather phenomena.
  • However, over the past 15 years, the intensity and frequency of heatwaves have risen significantly. Increased economic activities have resulted in more people working outdoors, making them more susceptible to heat-strokes. Currently, 23 states are vulnerable to heatwaves.
  • These states, along with several vulnerable cities, have developed heat action plans (HAPs) to mitigate the effects of extreme heat. HAPs include measures such as creating shaded areas, ensuring the availability of cool water in public places, distributing simple oral rehydration solutions, and adjusting the schedules of schools, colleges, and offices.
  • These initiatives require funding, but state governments have not been able to use the SDRF for these purposes. Consequently, there is a push to have heatwaves recognized as a notified disaster under the DM Act
4. Centre Stand on Heatwaves

There are two primary reasons for this:

Finance Commission Reluctance:

  • States have requested the inclusion of heatwaves as a notified disaster from the last three Finance Commissions, the constitutional bodies responsible for allocating financial resources between the central and state governments.
  • However, the Finance Commissions have not been fully convinced. The 15th Finance Commission, whose recommendations are currently in effect, stated that the existing list of notified disasters largely meets the states' needs and did not find sufficient reason to add heatwaves.
  • Nonetheless, it supported an enabling provision from the previous commission allowing states to use up to 10% of the SDRF funds for "local disasters," such as lightning or heatwaves, which states could designate independently.
  • Using this provision, at least four states — Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, and Kerala — have classified heatwaves as local disasters. The central government has resisted classifying heatwaves as a national disaster, citing the Finance Commission's stance as a reason.
Practical Difficulties:
  • Although not explicitly stated, the primary reason for the hesitation to classify heatwaves as a notified disaster is the significant financial burden it would entail.
  • The government is required to provide compensation — Rs 4 lakh — for each death caused by a disaster on the notified list, as well as compensate for grievous injuries
5. What are heat waves and their effects?
 
  • A heatwave is defined as a prolonged period of excessively high temperatures, often accompanied by high humidity, that significantly exceeds the typical climatic conditions for a particular region and time of year. This extreme heat can last for several days to weeks and can have severe impacts on health, infrastructure, and the environment
  • Heatwaves cause a significant number of fatalities annually, although the recorded death toll has not been notably high in recent years. However, this trend is evolving. This year, over 500 deaths linked to heat have already been documented. If the government becomes obligated to compensate for these deaths, a higher number of fatalities could be disclosed.
  • Another issue lies in attributing deaths directly to heatwaves. In many instances, heat itself does not directly cause fatalities; instead, individuals succumb to exacerbated pre-existing health conditions aggravated by extreme heat.
  • Determining whether heat played a decisive role can be challenging. This contrasts starkly with other disasters where identifying victims is typically more straightforward
6. Way Forward
 
Between 2021 and 2026, the 15th Finance Commission proposed allocating Rs 1,60,153 crore to various State Disaster Response Funds (SDRFs), a substantial amount of funding. For instance, Uttar Pradesh has been assigned approximately Rs 11,400 crore for its SDRF during this five-year period, while Maharashtra has been allotted the highest amount, around Rs 19,000 crore. This funding is intended to address all types of disasters over the specified period. Concerns arise that even this allocation might prove inadequate if heatwaves and lightning — which also cause significant loss of life annually — are included in the list of officially recognized disasters
 
 
For Prelims: Heatwaves, a Notified Disaster, El Nino and La Nina
For Mains: GS III- Disaster Management Management Act 2005
 
 
Previous Year Questions
 
1. Explain the mechanism and occurrence of cloudburst in the context of the Indian subcontinent. Discuss two recent examples. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2022]
2.Describe the various causes and the effects of landslides. Mention components of the important components of National Landslide Risk Management strategy
Source: Indianexpress
 

BIRSA MUNDA

 
1. Context
Marking the 124th death anniversary of revolutionary tribal leader Birsa Munda, Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren paid his tributes on Sunday (June 9 2024)
 
2.Why Janjatiya Gaurav Divas is celebrated?
  • "Janjatiya Gaurav Divas," or Indigenous People's Pride Day, is celebrated in India to honor and recognize the rich cultural heritage, traditions, customs, and contributions of the indigenous or tribal communities in the country.
  • The day aims to raise awareness about the unique identities, languages, art, crafts, rituals, and knowledge systems of these tribal groups. It acknowledges their significant role in the cultural mosaic of India and promotes respect for their way of life.
  • Moreover, the celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas serves as a platform to highlight the challenges faced by indigenous communities, such as issues related to land rights, socio-economic disparities, cultural preservation, and access to education and healthcare. It endeavors to create a sense of pride and empowerment among these communities while also fostering inclusivity and understanding among the broader population regarding their diverse cultures and lifestyles.

3.Who was Birsa Munda?

Birsa Munda - Our Inspiration | The Avenue Mail

  • Birsa Munda, a youthful freedom fighter and tribal leader, is renowned for his fervent activism in the late 19th century, symbolizing a potent opposition to British rule in India. Hailing from the tribal regions of Bihar and Jharkhand, his accomplishments are notably exceptional as he attained them before turning 25. Jharkhand was established in honor of his impact on the national movement, marking his birth anniversary in 2000.
  • Born on November 15, 1875, Birsa grew up migrating across villages with his parents, belonging to the Munda tribe in the Chhotanagpur Plateau. His initial education was under Jaipal Nag's tutelage at Salga, where he later converted to Christianity at the recommendation of his teacher to attend a German Mission school. However, he eventually left the school.
  • The influence of Christianity shaped his later religious perspectives. Acquainted with British colonial rule and missionary attempts to convert tribals, Birsa initiated the faith of 'Birsait.' This faith garnered followers from the Munda and Oraon communities, posing a challenge to British conversion endeavors.
  • Between 1886 and 1890, Birsa spent substantial time in Chaibasa, a hub for the Sardars agitation. Influenced by these activities, he became part of the anti-missionary and anti-government movement. By 1890, he was deeply involved in the resistance against British oppression of tribal communities.
  • Birsa Munda was apprehended by British police on March 3, 1900, while resting with his tribal guerrilla army in Jamkopai forest, Chakradharpur. He passed away in Ranchi jail on June 9, 1900, at the young age of 25. Despite his short life and the movement's decline post his demise, Birsa Munda successfully mobilized tribal communities against the British. He compelled colonial officials to introduce laws safeguarding tribal land rights. His legacy endures through celebrations, and he remains a significant figure in literature, academia, and mass media.

4.Why Munda Rebellion is significant?

 

  • The Munda Rebellion, also known as the Ulgulan or the Munda Uprising, was a significant tribal revolt against British colonial rule in India. It took place primarily in the region of Chotanagpur plateau, present-day Jharkhand, between 1899 and 1900.
  • Led by Birsa Munda, a revered tribal leader and freedom fighter, the rebellion was a response to various grievances faced by the tribal communities, including exploitation by landlords, loss of traditional land rights, forced labor, and oppressive policies imposed by the British authorities and missionaries.
  • The movement was deeply rooted in the cultural and religious beliefs of the Mundas and other tribal communities in the region. Birsa Munda, considered a charismatic figure, unified various tribes under a common cause to resist British oppression and reclaim their rights and autonomy.
  • The rebellion was characterized by acts of civil disobedience, non-cooperation, and sporadic violent clashes with the British forces. Birsa advocated for a return to the traditional way of life and urged his followers to revolt against the oppressive practices enforced by the British administration and missionaries.
  • However, the rebellion faced significant challenges, including lack of resources, arms, and unified leadership. The British swiftly suppressed the uprising by employing military force and eventually captured Birsa Munda. He was arrested in 1900 and later died in custody in Ranchi jail.
  • Despite its relatively short duration, the Munda Rebellion holds historical significance as one of the earliest and notable uprisings against British colonial rule led by tribal communities in India. It symbolized the resistance of indigenous tribes against oppressive policies and became a catalyst for future movements advocating for the rights and autonomy of tribal populations in the country.

5. What are Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)?

  • PVTGs, previously referred to as primitive tribal groups, represent a subset of the Scheduled Tribes (STs), comprising those within the ST category recognized as particularly vulnerable compared to the general ST population. These endangered tribal groups were categorized by the government to prioritize advancements in their living conditions. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs identifies 75 PVTGs dispersed across 15 states and Union Territories.
  • The initiative was initially announced during the 2023-24 budget and is being rolled out preceding the Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. These states harbor a substantial tribal population, with Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh recording ST proportions of 21.1% and 30.6%, respectively, as per the 2011 Census.
  • PVTGs represent the most susceptible factions within tribal communities, typically possessing unique cultures, residing in remote areas, and maintaining minimal interaction with other communities.
  • The program aims to comprehensively address the scattered, isolated, and hard-to-reach settlements of PVTGs by providing essential amenities such as infrastructure development including roads, telecommunications, electricity, secure housing, clean water, sanitation facilities, enhanced access to education, healthcare, nutrition, and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
  • Approximately 28 lakh individuals from the 75 PVTGs inhabit 22,544 villages spread across 18 states and Union Territories within India.

6. Way forward

The norms of certain schemes will be relaxed to cover these remote habitations.
In addition to the 11 interventions, saturation of other government schemes such as PMJAY health insurance scheme, the Sickle Cell Disease Elimination programme, TB Elimination programme, 100% childhood immunisation, PM Surakshit Matrutva to ensure free of cost antenatal care to all women, PM Matru Vandana Yojana for cash benefit to mothers, PM Poshan, and PM Jan Dhan Yojana.

 

For Prelims: Indian Polity and Governance-Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.

For Mains: General Studies I: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present significant events, personalities, issues.

General Studies I: Social empowerment

General Studies II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation

 

Previous Year Questions

1.Consider the following statements about Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India: (UPSC CSE 2019)

1. PVTGs reside in 18 States and one Union Territory.

2. A stagnant or declining population is one of the criteria for determining PVTG status.

3. There are 95 PVTGs officially notified in the country so far.

4. Irular and Konda Reddi tribes are included in the list of PVTGs.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A.1, 2 and 3

B.2, 3 and 4

C.1, 2 and 4

D.1, 3 and 4

Answer (C)

Source: Indianexpress

CABINET COMMITTEES

 
 
1. Context
The contours of the Narendra Modi 3.0 ministry are becoming clearer ahead of the swearing-in ceremony on Sunday (June 9) evening. The Prime Minister-designate had tea with his new team at his residence earlier in the day
 
2. What are the various Cabinet committees?
 
  • After the Union Cabinet is sworn in and ministerial portfolios are assigned, the next step involves establishing the high-profile Cabinet committees.
  • These committees are formed by the Prime Minister and comprise selected Cabinet members who are delegated specific roles. The Prime Minister has the authority to adjust the number of committees and modify their assigned functions as needed.
  • Each committee typically consists of three to eight members, predominantly Cabinet ministers. Occasionally, non-Cabinet ministers may also participate as members or special invitees. When the Prime Minister serves on a committee, he assumes the role of its chairperson.
  • These committees deliberate on issues, develop proposals for Cabinet consideration, and make decisions on matters within their purview. The Cabinet retains the authority to review these decisions.
  • During the Manmohan Singh government, there were up to 12 Cabinet committees in addition to numerous Groups of Ministers (GoMs) and Empowered Groups of Ministers (EGoMs)
 
How Many Committees are Present right now?
 
Currently, there are eight Cabinet committees: the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs, Cabinet Committee on Investment and Growth, Cabinet Committee on Security, Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs, Cabinet Committee on Employment & Skill Development, and Cabinet Committee on Accommodation.
The committees focusing on investment and employment were introduced by the Modi government in 2019. Except for the Cabinet Committee on Accommodation and Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs, all committees are chaired by the Prime Minister
 
3. Significance of Cabinet Committees
 
  • Led by the Prime Minister, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) includes the Ministers of Finance, Defence, Home Affairs, and External Affairs as its members.
  • It oversees discussions, appointments within national security bodies, and major decisions concerning national security, defence spending, and related policy matters. In addition to defence issues, the CCS also addresses law and order, internal security, and foreign policy matters related to security, including considerations involving atomic energy.
  • Given its crucial role, there is an expectation that the BJP will resist pressure from allies such as the TDP and JDU to relinquish any of these significant portfolios.
  • With all current CCS members—Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Nirmala Sitharaman, and S Jaishankar—regularly attending informal meetings at the Prime Minister's residence, there is widespread anticipation of continuity within the CCS in Modi's second term
4. Coalition Government and Cabinet Committees (CCs)
 
  • In a coalition government, where multiple political parties come together to form a government, the composition and functioning of Cabinet Committees (CCs) can be influenced by the dynamics of coalition politics
  • One notable instance occurred during the transition from Atal Bihari Vajpayee's tenure as Prime Minister to the H D Deve Gowda government in 1996.
  • Deve Gowda, then Chief Minister of Karnataka, assumed office as Prime Minister on June 1. Mulayam Singh Yadav from the Samajwadi Party was appointed Defence Minister, P Chidambaram, who had established the Tamil Maanila Congress earlier that year, took on the role of Finance Minister, and Indrajit Gupta of the CPI became Home Minister.
  • In 2001, during Vajpayee's leadership of the NDA government, George Fernandes, founder of the Samata Party, was appointed Defence Minister and held the position for three years.
  • As Defence Minister during the BJP-led governments of Atal Bihari Vajpayee's second and third terms (1998–2004), Fernandes oversaw significant events such as the Kargil War and the nuclear tests conducted at Pokhra
5. Way Forward
Overall, in a coalition government, Cabinet Committees play a crucial role in managing and balancing the interests of coalition partners while addressing national priorities. Effective coordination and communication among coalition members are essential for the smooth functioning of CCs and the government as a whole
 
 
For Prelims: Cabinet Committees, Ethics Committes
For Mains: GSII- Cabinet Committees and thier Significance
 
 
Previous Year Questions
 
1.Read the following statements related to Cabinet Committees and choose the correct option : (CGPSC Civil Service 2020 Official Paper 1)
 
Statement I : Cabinet Committees are not mentioned in the Constitution
Statement II : Cabinet Committees are set up by the Prime Minister according to the exigencies of the time and requirements of the situation
Statement III : If Prime Minister is the member of Committee, he may not necessarily be the Chairman of Committee
Statement IV : Parliamentary Affairs Committee is chaired by the Prime Minister
 
A.All statements are true
B.Statements I, II and III are true, but Statement IV is false
C.Statements II, III and IV are true, but Statement I is false
D.Statements I and II are true, but Statements III and IV are false
 
Source: Indianexpress
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