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Critical Topics and Their Significance for the UPSC CSE Examination on December 09, 2024
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Special Bench to hear Places of Worship Act case
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of antional and international importance
For Mains Examination: GS II Indian Polity & Governance
Context:
Three-judge SC Bench headed by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna to look into petitions seeking to ‘reclaim’ places of worship allegedly ‘encroached’ by ‘fundamentalist invaders’; first hearing fixed on Dec. 12; ‘grievances’ against Mughal rulers not a valid ground to challenge validity of a legislative enactment, says group representing Gyanvapi mosque
Read about:
Places of Worship Act
Key takeaways:
- Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna has established a Special Bench to address petitions disputing the constitutionality of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act of 1991. This law aims to preserve the identity and character of religious places as they stood on August 15, 1947.
- The three-judge Bench, led by Chief Justice Khanna and including Justices Sanjay Kumar and K.V. Viswanathan, is set to hold its first hearing on December 12 at 3:30 p.m. The court's causelist, released on Saturday, confirmed the case's assignment to this newly formed Bench.
- The petitions challenge the 1991 Act's validity, with one of the petitioners, advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, arguing that the legislation prevents Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs from seeking legal recourse to reclaim places of worship allegedly encroached upon by "barbaric invaders."
- In response, Muslim organizations such as the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) and the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind have opposed the petitions. They argue that these challenges, disguised as public interest litigations, attack a Central law that upholds the principles of secularism and fraternity, enshrined in the Preamble and considered part of the Constitution’s “Basic Structure.” The 1991 Act, they contend, safeguards the religious character of sites and prevents the use of historical grievances to harm the present and future.
- The AIMPLB has referenced the Ayodhya judgment, which acknowledged that the 1991 Act is critical to preserving the nation’s historical and social harmony. The judgment noted that the law unequivocally asserts that historical wrongs cannot serve as tools for present-day oppression.
- Meanwhile, the Gyanvapi mosque management committee has sought to intervene in the case. The Gyanvapi mosque is embroiled in multiple lawsuits filed by Hindu claimants asserting the existence of a temple beneath the mosque and their right to worship there.
- The Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Varanasi, representing the mosque, has countered these claims, arguing that grievances based on actions of Mughal-era rulers cannot justify invalidating a law like the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act
Follow Up Question
Q. The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, is significant in maintaining communal harmony in India. Which of the following statements regarding the Act is/are correct?
- The Act prohibits the conversion of any place of worship from its existing religious character as of August 15, 1947.
- The Act applies to all religious places, including the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid site.
- The Act upholds the secular fabric of India as enshrined in the Preamble of the Constitution.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
|
Answer (b)
|
Why can’t the world agree on a plastic ban?
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance
For Mains Examination: GS III - Environment & Ecology
Context:
The 5th Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) on plastic pollution was a conclave of delegations from about 170 countries mandated to establish a legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution, informally called the Global Plastics Treaty. Despite a week of meetings, the INC-5 failed to meet its mandate.
Read about:
Single Plastic Use
Global Plastic Treaty
Key takeaways:
What is the Global Plastics Treaty?
- In March 2022, the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) committed to combating plastic pollution, including in marine ecosystems. To achieve this, it established Intergovernmental Negotiating Committees (INC) tasked with drafting a treaty by the end of 2024.
- Over two years, countries convened five times to reconcile differing perspectives on addressing plastic pollution. While many nations support recycling initiatives and banning specific plastics, such as India's 2022 prohibition on single-use plastics, they remain hesitant to curb overall plastic production.
- This resistance stems from the economic significance of plastic manufacturing in petro-states and countries with large polymer industries.
- Ahead of the most recent negotiation round in Busan, South Korea, INC-5 Chair Luis Vayas Valdivieso presented a draft "non-paper," summarizing nations' varied approaches to managing plastic production.
- However, negotiations highlighted a stark divide between countries that see plastic pollution as a waste management issue and those advocating for production cuts at the source. This gap remains unresolved
How Severe is Plastic Pollution?
- The scale of plastic pollution is staggering. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), plastic waste production nearly tripled between 1970 and 1990 and surged significantly in the early 2000s, growing more in that decade than in the previous 40 years combined.
- Today, the world generates approximately 400 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, a figure projected to reach 1,100 million tonnes by 2050 if current trends persist.
- Single-use plastics have become increasingly prevalent, with 36% of all plastics used in packaging, of which 85% ends up in landfills or unmanaged waste.
- Nearly all single-use plastic items—98%—are derived from fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions that could consume 19% of the global carbon budget by 2040.
- Despite efforts, less than 10% of the seven billion tonnes of plastic waste ever produced has been recycled. Much of this waste is lost to the environment or exported for disposal, often burned or dumped.
- The financial loss from inefficient processing of plastic packaging waste is estimated at $80–$120 billion annually. Commonly discarded items include cigarette butts (containing microplastics), food wrappers, bottles, and grocery bags.
India’s Position on the Treaty
- India has expressed reservations about proposals to regulate the production of primary plastic polymers, citing concerns about its developmental rights. At the INC negotiations, India's delegation, led by Naresh Pal Gangwar, emphasized its commitment to consensus-based decision-making under multilateral agreements. India highlighted its existing measures, such as banning 22 single-use plastic items and implementing an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regime to enforce recycling obligations for companies.
- However, India views restrictions on plastic production as trade barriers, given its economic reliance on virgin polymer production and exports, with major corporations like Reliance Industries heavily invested in this sector.
- India aligns with countries like China and Saudi Arabia in opposing stringent production cuts. While 85–100 countries supported measures to limit plastic production and set year-wise targets, India objected to voting mechanisms for advancing treaty negotiations, arguing that such processes could undermine equity and consensus
Is This the End of the Road?
Not at all. A continuation of negotiations, referred to as “INC 5.2,” is anticipated next year to seek a resolution and finalize the treaty. If adopted, the treaty would pave the way for periodic Conferences of Parties (COP) similar to climate agreements. Historical precedents show that environmental treaties often take years to negotiate, ratify, and implement. For example, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) required multiple sessions over five years to finalize its instrument on marine biodiversity. Similarly, the Global Plastics Treaty negotiations may require extended discussions and adjustments before reaching a consensus
Follow Up Question
1.Consider the following statements : (UPSC 2023)
2.The Biodiversity Management Committees have important functions in determining access and benefit sharing, including the power to levy collection fees on the access of biological resources within its jurisdiction.
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 (c)
The Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) are crucial for implementing the objectives of the Nagoya Protocol, which focuses on access to genetic resources and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from their utilization. Under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, BMCs are responsible for preparing People's Biodiversity Registers (PBRs) and ensuring the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, aligning with the protocol's goals. Statement 2:The BMCs play a significant role in Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) mechanisms. They have the authority to determine and charge collection fees for accessing biological resources within their jurisdiction. This is in accordance with the guidelines under the Biological Diversity Act, which mandates fair benefit-sharing for local communities. Thus, both statements are correct, making the correct answer (c) Both 1 and 2 |
Decoupling signifies a disconnect between economic growth and environmental harm. Historically, economic expansion has correlated with environmental degradation, with growth driving GHG emissions. However, in light of the escalating climate crisis, achieving economic growth without increasing emissions has become a global priority.
Decoupling is categorized into two types:
- Absolute Decoupling: Economic growth occurs while emissions decrease, representing the ideal scenario where countries achieve development without adding environmental harm.
- Relative Decoupling: Both GDP and emissions grow, but the economy expands at a faster rate than emissions. This reflects progress but acknowledges continued environmental impact.
Decoupling is critical for sustainable development. It offers a framework to enhance living standards and reduce energy poverty without worsening climate change. It also counters calls for "degrowth," a concept that advocates for curbing economic expansion to reduce ecological damage. Proponents of "green growth" argue for the coexistence of economic progress and environmental preservation, while degrowth advocates contend that economic growth inherently drives environmental degradation. Critics of degrowth highlight that nations, especially developing ones, must address both rising emissions and pressing issues like poverty and low living standards—challenges that economic growth can help resolve
Greenhouse Gases (GHG)
Major Greenhouse Gases:
-
Carbon Dioxide (COâ‚‚):
- Sources: Fossil fuel combustion, deforestation, cement production.
- Impact: Largest contributor to anthropogenic global warming due to its high concentration and longevity in the atmosphere.
-
Methane (CHâ‚„):
- Sources: Agriculture (e.g., livestock digestion), wetlands, landfill decomposition, and fossil fuel extraction.
- Impact: 25–30 times more potent than COâ‚‚ in trapping heat over a 100-year period.
-
Nitrous Oxide (Nâ‚‚O):
- Sources: Agricultural fertilizers, industrial processes, fossil fuel combustion, and biomass burning.
- Impact: About 300 times more effective than COâ‚‚ in heat trapping over a century
1.Consider the following statements regarding Greenhouse Gases (GHGs):
- Methane is more effective than carbon dioxide in trapping heat over a 100-year period.
- Fluorinated gases are emitted in larger quantities compared to carbon dioxide.
- Nitrous oxide emissions primarily come from the use of synthetic fertilizers in agriculture.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2, and 3
(d) 1 only
|
Answer (a)
Based on this analysis:
Therefore, the correct answer is (a) 1 and 3 only |
New study suggests existence of a dockyard at Lothal, Gujarat, during Harappan Civilisation
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance
Context:
Since the discovery of Harappan sites at Lothal, located in the Bhal region of Gujarat, in the 1950s, archaeologists have been divided on whether a dockyard existed at the location during the Indus Valley Civilisation
Read about:
What is Indus Valley Civilisation (IVC)?
What is Art & Culture in Harappan Civilisation?
Key takeaways:
- The researchers developed their study based on the hypothesis that Lothal was connected to an inland network that linked it to the Rann of Kutch. During their investigation, Gupta identified a water channel, which turned out to be the Sabarmati River.
- This river originally flowed by Lothal but has since shifted to its current course, now located 20 kilometers away, according to the study.
- By using advanced technology, the researchers traced the gradual shifting of the Sabarmati River, which, at one point, flowed near Lothal. This indicates that when Lothal functioned as a Harappan port, the river was likely flowing at that location.
- The Nal Sarovar was also in full flow, with a river branching out from it. Thus, there was a route from Lothal to the Nal Sarovar, then to the Little Rann, and finally to Dholavira. It would have taken about two days to travel this route by boat, suggesting that traders might have used it for transporting goods. Evidence of foreign trade found at Lothal supports this theory.
- Some researchers who believed in the existence of a dockyard at Lothal based their argument on the discovery of a basin measuring 222 x 37 meters. Others, however, suggested it was merely an “irrigation tank.”
- To support their study, the researchers utilized data from early maps, satellite imagery, and digital elevation models, which are 3D representations of a planet or celestial body’s topography.
- The research focused on two topographic maps from the 19th century, which helped distinguish paleochannels—ancient river channels—from perennial streams and allowed the researchers to understand the geomorphic changes that have taken place over the past 150 years
Follow Up Question
1.Which of the following statements about the Harappan civilisation is/are correct?
- The Harappan civilisation was primarily urban and had advanced town planning with well-laid-out streets and drainage systems.
- The Harappan people had knowledge of metallurgy and produced copper, bronze, lead, and tin objects.
- The script used by the Harappan people has been deciphered, revealing their detailed trade records and social structure.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3
|
Answer (A)
|
- Antibiotics are often praised for their ability to treat deadly infections and save lives, but their excessive and improper use in humans, animals, and agriculture has significant, often overlooked consequences.
- While it is widely recognized that such practices contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a deeper threat exists in the disruption they cause to the microbiome. This disturbance can impact every organ and function within the body.
Microbiome's Importance
- The human body harbors a complex community of microorganisms known as the microbiome, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. With about 38 trillion microbial cells in our body, they actually outnumber our human cells, which total around 30 trillion.
- The gut microbiome, in particular, is crucial for maintaining health by aiding in digestion, supporting the immune system, producing essential nutrients, and protecting against harmful pathogens. The diversity and balance of these microbial communities are vital to our overall well-being.
Impact of Antibiotics on the Microbiome
- While antibiotics are critical in treating bacterial infections, their overuse can severely disrupt the microbiome. These medications do not differentiate between harmful bacteria and beneficial microbes, leading to a condition known as dysbiosis.
- Dysbiosis, the imbalance in the gut microbiome, can have long-lasting consequences, potentially lasting months or years after antibiotic use.
- It is linked to conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, weakened immune function, and metabolic disorders.
Gut-Organ Interactions
- The gut microbiome interacts with various organs through complex networks known as gut-organ axes. For instance, the gut-brain axis links the gut microbiome to the brain, where imbalances can affect mental health.
- The gut-liver axis involves the transport of bacterial toxins to the liver, potentially worsening liver conditions.
- The gut-skin axis influences skin health, where dysbiosis can exacerbate conditions like acne and eczema. Furthermore, the gut microbiome plays a role in metabolic processes, and its disruption can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic syndromes.
Beyond the Gut
The microbiome's influence extends beyond the gut. The skin microbiome, for example, plays a crucial role in protecting against infections and maintaining skin health. The respiratory tract microbiome helps defend against respiratory infections, and the genitourinary microbiome protects against infections in the urinary and reproductive systems.
Colonization Resistance
- A particularly concerning aspect of antibiotic use is its impact on colonization resistance, the ability of the native gut microbiome to protect against pathogenic microorganisms. Antibiotics can reduce this resistance, allowing harmful bacteria to establish themselves and increase the risk of infections.
- Given the profound effects of antibiotics on the microbiome and the long-term health risks associated with dysbiosis, it is essential to use these medications judiciously.
- Alternatives like better hygiene practices, vaccinations, and bacteriophage use should be considered to reduce antibiotic reliance.
- While antibiotics have revolutionized medicine, their misuse can turn them into harmful agents, underscoring the need for careful and responsible use to preserve the balance of our microbiome and maintain health
1.Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India? ( UPSC CSE 2019)
- Genetic predisposition of some people
- Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases
- Using antibiotics in livestock farming
- Multiple chronic diseases in some people
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4
|
Answer (b)
Thus, options 2 and 3 are correct, making (b) 2 and 3 only the right answer |
International Big Cat Alliance and India
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance
For Mains Examination: GS III - Environment & Ecology
Context:
India recently joined the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). In this Wildlife Week, let's learn about Big Cats, their habitats, the significant steps taken by the government for their conservation, and more
Read about:
What is International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)?
What is Project Cheetah?
Key takeaways:
As India observes Wildlife Week 2024, it’s essential to highlight a significant development regarding the country’s wildlife. In September of this year, India officially became a member of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). The IBCA was established last year to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger, and its mission is to promote awareness about the conservation of seven big cat species.
India is home to five of these seven big cats: the tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, and cheetah, with the puma and jaguar being the exceptions. This raises several questions: What defines these big cats, how do they differ from one another, and what are their habitats? What are their population figures, and what significant actions has the government taken for their conservation? Here’s a comprehensive overview of the seven big cats.
Tiger (Panthera Tigris)
The tiger has two recognized subspecies: Panthera tigris tigris (the continental tiger) and Panthera tigris sondaica (the Sunda tiger). Tigers primarily rely on their sight and hearing for hunting rather than smell, usually stalking their prey alone. According to the World Wildlife Fund, a tiger can consume more than 80 pounds of meat in a single meal.
As reported in the fifth cycle of the All India Tiger Estimation 2022, India has approximately 3,167 tigers, representing over 70% of the world’s wild tiger population.
Conservation Efforts
-
Indian Board for Wildlife (IBWL): The International Union for Conservation of Nature has endorsed the board’s recommendation to prohibit the export of wild cat skins, including those of tigers.
-
Project Tiger: Launched in 1973, this centrally sponsored initiative was established in nine reserves across states like Assam, Bihar, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and West Bengal.
-
National Tiger Conservation Authority: Following amendments to the Wildlife (Protection) Act in 2006, the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau and the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) were set up as statutory bodies based on the Tiger Task Force report.
-
Bilateral Cooperation: India has been working with neighboring nations to strengthen transboundary conservation efforts, such as with Bangladesh to support tiger conservation in the Sundarbans. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between India and Cambodia focusing on “Cooperation in biodiversity conservation and sustainable wildlife management recovery strategies for tigers and their habitats,” as stated on the Ministry of External Affairs website.
-
Conservation Assured Tiger Standards (CA|TS) Accreditation: This international accreditation framework evaluates management practices in tiger reserves to ensure compliance with strict conservation standards.
-
International Big Cats Alliance (IBCA): Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023, the IBCA aims to enhance the protection of seven big cats: the tiger, leopard, snow leopard, lion, cheetah, puma, and jaguar. The initiative was announced during a program celebrating 50 years of Project Tiger and seeks to foster connections with various countries that share habitats with these big cats, enhancing international cooperation and conservation efforts for these magnificent animals
1.Consider the following: (2012)
- Black-necked crane
- Cheetah
- Flying squirrel
- Snow leopard
Which of the above are naturally found in India?
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
|
Answer (b)
Thus, the species that are currently naturally found in India are the Black-necked crane, Flying squirrel, and Snow leopard |
| Subject | Topic | Description |
| History | Modern Indian History | Company rule and Crown rule 1773 - 1947 |
| History | Modern Indian History | Fall of Mughals |
| History | Modern Indian History | Establishment of British rule in India |
| History | Modern Indian History | Economic Policies of the British |
|
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