Daily Current Affairs UPSC 10 July 2024

Jute

• Ministry of Rural Development organized a webinar to boost jute craft-based livelihoods.
• Jute is a Kharif crop and is known as the golden fibre.
• Climatic conditions required for jute growth include alluvial soil, high temperature, heavy rainfall, and humid climate.
• Producing states of jute include West Bengal, Assam, Orissa, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Tripura, and Meghalaya.
• India is the largest producer of raw jute and jute goods, but is losing market share to synthetic fibres due to high cost.

Carbonate Compensation Depth (CCD)

• Research shows that the Carbonate Compensation Depth (CCD) is increasing in size.
• The CCD is the depth in the ocean where the rate of calcium carbonate supply from the surface equals the rate of dissolution.
• In the deep ocean, carbonate particles in sediments come from the shells of plankton that die and sink to the bottom.
• Shells start to dissolve below around 4,000 meters due to ocean waters becoming undersaturated with calcium carbonate because of factors like pressure, temperature, and dissolved CO2.

Financial Inclusion Index

• RBI has released the Financial Inclusion Index for March 2024, showing an increase from 60.1 in March 2023 to 64.2.
• The Financial Inclusion Index is a comprehensive measure that includes details of banking, investments, insurance, postal, and pension sectors.
• This index reflects the level of financial inclusion throughout the country.
• The index is a single value ranging from 0 to 100, with 0 representing complete exclusion and 100 representing full inclusion.
• It consists of three main parameters: Access (35%), Usage (45%), and Quality (20%).
• The Financial Inclusion Index is published annually in July.

Prime Minister’s Science, Technology & Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC)

• The 25th meeting of the Prime Minister's Science, Technology, and Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC) took place.
• PM-STIAC was established in 2018.
• PM-STIAC functions as a council to assess science and technology-related issues, understand challenges, create interventions, develop a roadmap, and advise the Prime Minister.
• PM-STIAC also supervises the implementation of interventions by relevant S&T departments, agencies, and government ministries.
• Missions approved by PM-STIAC include Deep Ocean Exploration Mission, AI Mission, National Quantum Mission, Electric Vehicle Mission, and AGNIi Mission.

Mitochondrial Disease (Mito)

• Mitochondrial donation is a new IVF procedure being trialed in Australia to treat mitochondrial disease.
• Mitochondria are responsible for producing 90% of the energy needed for cell function.
• Mitochondrial disease, or Mito, is an inherited metabolic condition caused by genetic mutations in DNA.
• Mito impairs the ability of mitochondria to convert food and oxygen into energy.
• There are two types of DNA involved in mitochondrial disease: nuclear DNA inherited from both parents, and mitochondrial DNA passed down from the mother.

Fly Ash

• Ministry of Coal is actively working on disposal and repurposing of Fly Ash from thermal power plants.
• Fly Ash is a byproduct of burning coal in thermal power plants.
• Types of Fly Ash include Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP) ash, dry fly ash, bottom ash, pond ash, and mound ash.
• Composition of Fly Ash includes silicon dioxide (SiO2), calcium oxide (CaO), and aluminium oxide (Al2O3).
• Uses of Fly Ash include manufacturing building materials, replacing cement, and enhancing soil fertility.

Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA)

• CCPA mandates an online travel platform to reimburse customers impacted by COVID-19 lockdown.
• Establishment of CCPA in 2020 under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
• CCPA's goal is to advocate for, safeguard, and uphold consumer rights collectively.
• CCPA consists of a Chief Commissioner and additional Commissioners as required.
• CCPA is empowered to investigate breaches of consumer rights, file complaints/prosecutions, mandate the recall of hazardous products/services, etc.

Vachana Literature

• Fa.Gu. Halakatti was known for revitalizing Vachana Literature.
• Vachana Literature is a type of Kannada rhythmic composition.
• Literal meaning of "vachanas" is "that which is spoken".
• Originated in the 11th century and thrived in the 12th century.
• Part of the Sharana movement spearheaded by Guru Basavanna.
• Madara Chennaiah considered as the "father of Vachana poetry" by some researchers.

Kartarpur Corridor

• Pakistan recently completed the bridge at Kartarpur Corridor zero line, connecting Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan with the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Punjab state.
• The corridor links the final resting place of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak Dev with a town built by his followers, Dera Baba Nanak.
• Gurdwara Dera Baba Nanak is located about 1 km from the Indo-Pakistan border on the east bank of River Ravi, while Kartarpur Sahib is on the west bank of River Ravi.

Gaur and Sambar

• Research conducted by the National Centre for Biological Sciences found that the genetic connectivity of two major herbivores, the Gaur and Sambar, has been affected by changes in land use and the construction of roads in the Central Indian Landscape.

Gaur (Indian Bison)

• Grazing animal that lives in groups of 30 to 40.
• Mostly found in the Western Ghats.
• Threatened by poaching and food scarcity.
• Classified as Vulnerable by IUCN.
• Listed under Schedule I of WPA, 1972.
• Included in CITES Appendix.

Sambar

• Large deer preyed upon by Indian Leopard, Bengal Tiger, and Dhole.
• State animal of Odisha.
• Native to Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.
• Threatened by habitat encroachment and hunting.
• Classified as Vulnerable by IUCN.
• Listed under Schedule I of WPA, 1972.

"Supreme Court's Guidelines on Differently Abled Representation in Media"

• Stereotyping is the act of making assumptions about individuals based on their group membership, rather than their individual characteristics.
• The Supreme Court has recognized that stereotyping differently abled persons perpetuates discrimination and inequality.

Key Guidelines 

• The CBFC should consult with disability experts before certifying films for screening.
• The 'Nothing about us, without us' principle should be followed to ensure inclusivity.
• Visual media should depict diverse realities of persons with disabilities, showcasing their challenges, successes, talents, and contributions to society.
• Films and media content should aim for accurate representation of medical conditions.

Status of Persons with Disabilities in India according to 2011 census

• According to the 2011 census, 2.21% of India's population are persons with disabilities.
• Among the disabled population, 56% are males and 44% are females.
• The majority (69%) of persons with disabilities reside in rural areas.

Major Challenges Faced by Persons with Disabilities in India

• Limited accessibility to public spaces, transportation, and buildings.
• Stereotypes hinder social integration, leading to exclusion and isolation.
• Inaccessible workplaces, lack of accommodations, and shortage of trained educators limit employment opportunities.

Initiatives to Empower Persons with Disabilities in India

• National Policy for Persons with Disabilities, 2006.
• Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016 to implement the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
• Accessible India Campaign to remove obstacles to indoor and outdoor facilities.
• Draft Guidelines of Accessibility Standards in the Public Exhibition of Feature Films in Cinema theatres for persons with hearing and visual impairment.

"Successful Conclusion of 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit"

• The Prime Minister of India and the President of Russia worked together to lead the Annual Summit in Moscow.
• A joint statement was released following the summit to outline the key agreements and outcomes.

Major Outcomes

• Trade and Economic Partnership: Both countries set a goal of reaching a bilateral trade target of USD 100 billion by 2030 and agreed to promote the use of national currencies in settlements.
• Transport and Connectivity: Plans were made to increase cargo turnover between India and Russia through projects like the North-South International Transport Corridor and the Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor.
• Comprehensive Reform of the UNSC: Both countries called for reforms to the United Nations Security Council to better reflect current global realities.
• Counter Terrorism: The leaders demanded the finalization and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism and agreed to implement UN resolutions on countering terrorism.
• Ukraine Conflict: Both parties committed to resolving the conflict around Ukraine through peaceful dialogue and diplomacy.
• Military Cooperation: Plans were made to encourage joint manufacturing in India of spare parts and components for Russian arms and defense equipment under the Make-in-India program.

Related News: Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle

• The Prime Minister of India was awarded Russia's highest civilian honor, the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, for his exceptional services in promoting the strategic partnership between Russia and India.
• Established in 1698, the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle is awarded for outstanding civilian or military merit.

"Preserving Transhumance Heritage: ICOMOS World Heritage Initiative"

• The initiative is led by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and supported by Azerbaijan.
• Aims to highlight environmental, cultural, and social dimensions of transhumance, promote international cooperation, and raise awareness of its contribution to human heritage.

About Transhumance

• Transhumance is the traditional practice of seasonal livestock movement, involving the migration of human communities with their herds.
• Common practice in mountainous regions worldwide.
• In 2023, Transhumance in 10 European States and Alpine Pasture season of Switzerland were declared Intangible Cultural Heritages of Humanity.

Significance of Transhumance Landscapes

• Demonstrates sustainable use and adaptation to inhospitable environments throughout history.
• Ensures food security, fosters social inclusion, strengthens cultural identity.
• Promotes conservation of ecosystem and biodiversity through habitat conservation, seed dispersal, fire prevention, etc.

Threats to Transhumance Culture

• Economic changes favoring settlements, reduced grazing areas, climate change, land diversion for industrial purposes, and urban development.

Transhumance Landscapes of India

• Transhumance practice prevalent in the Himalayas among nomadic tribes like Gujars, Bakarwals, Gaddis, and Changpas who rear sheep and goats.
• Animals moved to subalpine and alpine pastures in summer, grazed on plains in winter.
• System also exists in plains like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh.

"NHRC Advisory: Ending the Need for Begging"

• The advisory focuses on protecting and rehabilitating impoverished, uneducated children, women, and differently-abled individuals who are engaged in begging.
• It outlines eight key areas for action by the Centre, State governments, and UT administrations to address this issue.
• The 2011 census data shows that there were over 413 thousand beggars and vagrants in India.

Key Action Areas

• Survey, identification, and mapping: Creating a national database of individuals engaged in begging.
• Rehabilitation through shelter homes: Providing education and necessary assistance to individuals engaged in beggary.
• Healthcare services: Offering mental health care, de-addiction, and healthcare services in shelter homes.
• Education: Ensuring early childhood care and free compulsory education for individuals involved in begging.
• Drafting a National Policy: Creating a policy for the protection and rehabilitation of beggars and decriminalizing begging.
• Collaboration with NGOs: Working with NGOs, civil society organizations, private sector, and charitable trusts for skill training programs.
• Access to financial services: Providing access to financial services through Self-help Groups (SHGs).
• Awareness generation and monitoring: Creating awareness, sensitizing the public, and monitoring the situation.

Issues associated with Beggary

• Beggary is a socio-economic issue stemming from poverty, lack of education, and limited employment opportunities.
• Physically challenged individuals often have to rely on others for survival due to societal neglect.
• Systemic deficiencies and structural inequalities contribute to perpetuating poverty.
• Organized groups sometimes exploit vulnerable children into begging.

Constitutional Provisions

• The Preamble emphasizes 'Justice - social, economic, and political' and 'Fraternity, assuring the dignity of the individual'.
• Article 23 of the Constitution states that the State should strive to prohibit all forms of human trafficking, beggary, and forced labor.

Government Initiatives

• Bombay Prevention of Begging Act, 1959.
• Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
• SMILE: A Central Sector Scheme aimed at the comprehensive rehabilitation of individuals engaged in begging.

Preserving Ahom Era Moidams

• The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) has suggested that Assam's Ahom Era Moidams be added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
• ICOMOS serves as an advisory group to the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, assisting in the implementation of the World Heritage Convention.

About ‘Moidam’

• Located in Charaideo district in Assam, these burial grounds are where the rulers of the Ahom kingdom were laid to rest.
  
  • The burial grounds are often likened to the pyramids of Egypt due to their historical significance and grandeur.
  • In the 13th century, Chau-lung Siu-ka-pha, the founder of the Ahom kingdom, established his first capital at Che-raidoi or Charaideo, situated at the base of the Patkai hills.

Architectural features:

• The exterior of Moidams is rounded and their sizes vary based on the importance of the person buried.
• Moidams consist of a vaulted chamber with a raised platform, a hemispherical earthen mound with a brick structure, and an octagonal boundary wall with an arched gateway.
• Objects such as royal insignia, wooden, ivory, or iron objects, gold pendants, etc. were buried with the deceased.
• The Changrung Phukan, a canonical text developed by the Ahoms, details the materials used to construct Moidams, including wood, stone, and burnt bricks.

"Indian Scientists Create Open-Source TMT Tool"

• The goal is to develop a comprehensive star catalogue for the Adaptive Optics system of the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) to improve the quality of astronomical images.
• Telescopes on Earth face atmospheric distortion, especially high-capacity ones like the TMT, which can be corrected using an Adaptive Optics System (AOS).

About Adaptive Optics System

• The AOS uses deformable mirrors controlled by computers to correct atmospheric turbulence in real-time, requiring a bright reference star near the object being studied.
• The Narrow Field Infrared Adaptive Optics System (NFIRAOS) on TMT will be enhanced by a Laser Guide Star (LGS) facility and feedback from three Natural Guide Stars (NGS).

Ground-Based Astronomy

• Ground-based astronomy involves large telescopes on Earth's surface using advanced optics to study celestial objects, offering cost-effective and easier maintenance compared to space telescopes.
• Projects like the Thirty Meter Telescope, Giant Magellan Telescope, and European Southern Observatory are part of the Extremely Large Telescope initiative.

Thirty Meter Telescope

• The TMT is being constructed at Maunakea in Hawaii by the TMT International Observatory LLC (TIO), a non-profit partnership between the USA, Japan, India, and Canada.
• Indian institutions like the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Inter-University Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), and Aryabhatta Research Institute for Observational Sciences (ARIES) are collaborating with TMT on this project.