9 PM Daily Current Affairs Brief – January 25th, 2022

Dear Friends We have initiated some changes in the 9 PM Brief and other postings related to current affairs. What we sought to do:

  1. Ensure that all relevant facts, data, and arguments from today’s newspaper are readily available to you.
  2. We have widened the sources to provide you with content that is more than enough and adds value not just for GS but also for essay writing. Hence, the 9 PM brief now covers the following newspapers:
    1. The Hindu  
    2. Indian Express  
    3. Livemint  
    4. Business Standard  
    5. Times of India 
    6. Down To Earth
    7. PIB
  3. We have also introduced the relevance part to every article. This ensures that you know why a particular article is important.
  4. Since these changes are new, so initially the number of articles might increase, but they’ll go down over time.
  5. It is our endeavor to provide you with the best content and your feedback is essential for the same. We will be anticipating your feedback and ensure the blog serves as an optimal medium of learning for all the aspirants.
    • For previous editions of 9 PM BriefClick Here
    • For individual articles of 9 PM BriefClick Here

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 1

GS Paper 2

GS Paper 3

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 1

Bose’s legacy

Source– This post is based on the article “Bose’s legacy” published in Business standard on 24th Jan 2022. 

Syllabus– GS1- The Freedom Struggle. 

Relevance– Subash Chandra Bose, Indian Independence struggle 

News  

Government has decided to place a statue of Subash Chandra Bose at India Gate. occupying a prominent place in the upcoming administrative complex will serve as a daily reminder of Bose’s core political beliefs to citizens. 

What were the basic political ideas that Subash Chandra Bose believed in? 

He was attracted to military discipline. At the 1928 session of the Indian National Congress in Calcutta, he organised a display replete with military pageantry, dressing up in the uniform of a senior officer in the British army. 

He was non-communal and deeply secular. He appointed many Muslims to senior positions in the Indian National Army (INA).  

Despite serious political differences with Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, he accorded them a lot of respect. He was the first who referred to Gandhi as Father of the Nation, in a radio speech, and also named two of the four INA regiments by the name of Gandhi and Nehru. 

He was attracted by the ideology of Marxism and his ambition for post-independent Indian society was strongly egalitarian. 

He also believed in gender equality. The famed Rani of Jhansi regiment he set up under the aegis of the INA remains a unique experiment in women’s empowerment in Southeast Asia to this day. 

ForumIAS is now in Hyderabad. Click here to know more

GS Paper 2


Let’s universalize India’s employment assurance

Source: This post is based on the article “Let’s universalize India’s employment assurance” published in Livemint on 25th Jan 2022.

Syllabus: GS2- Welfare Schemes for Vulnerable Sections of the population

Relevance: Need of urban job guarantee scheme

News: Recently head of Hindustan Unilever has suggested that it’s time for the government to launch an urban job guarantee along the lines of India’s rural employment scheme.

What is the need urban employment scheme?

First, India’s rural employment scheme helped village-dwellers during the covid crisis.

Second, service sector has been severely affected by the pandemic and the livelihoods of large numbers in cities depend on this sector.

For example, restaurants, hotels, tourism-reliant businesses, and proximity-based services were hit so severely that only a few could sustain their payrolls. Jobs in cities remain scarce, which has ultimately resulted in income loss.

Third, acute distress was witnessed in 2020 when people started moving away from urban centers to the interiors after an all-India lockdown.

Fourth, According to ICE360 Survey (2021) conducted by People’s Research on India’s Consumer Economy, the country’s poorest 20% saw their household incomes decline by 53% over the last five years. On the other hand, the richest fifth saw a 39% increase.

Fifth, the burden of formalizing the economy through GST rollout and demonetization was also borne by informal-sector workers. Similarly, COVID restrictions also targeted informal workers.

What are the challenges associated with the urban job guarantee schemes?

One, the fiscal strain is one of the major concerns, and opponents argue that it will attract jobless to cities, which will create a further burden on public infrastructure.

Two, urban living is costlier, and it would be difficult for migrants if wages are kept the same as for rural jobs.

What is the way forward?

First, rural jobs were discussed in the 2000s on the ground that an emergent economy must not let anyone go hungry for want of work. Hence, the safety net must cover everyone to ensure minimal welfare conditions.

Second, a universalizing job guarantee is both fair and useful as a relief measure. India’s e-Shram portal is seen as an opening to an urban employment program.

Third, post-covid circumstances have pushed up the rural employment scheme’s annual allocation to over ₹1 trillion. Now, additional resources must be made available for urban coverage.

Fourth, a job guarantee should be available for all adults, with proof of identity as the sole requirement. It may prove fiscally expensive, but it would also help in increasing consumption among those with a high tendency to spend. Hence, it will help in the revival of the economy.


Rules For a Civil Service

Source: This post is based on the article “Rules for a Civil Service” published in Times of India on 25th Jan 2022.

Syllabus: GS2- Role of Civil Services in a Democracy

Relevance: Civil services and federalism

News: Recently the chief minister of West Bengal and other states objected to the central government’s proposed amendments to the rules governing the deputation of IAS officers.

What are the amendments proposed by the government?

Read: What are the proposed amendments to Rule 6 (deputation of cadre officers)?

Why changes are proposed?

First, IAS officers are recruited, appointed, and trained by the central government and allotted to various state cadres. But IAS officers are mandated to serve not only the state cadre to which they belong but also the central government whenever they are called upon to do so.

Second, the central government has the ultimate authority in matters relating to the service conditions. The state governments also have a participating role in these matters by way of the relevant rules.

Third, Senior positions in the central government from the level of deputy secretary/ director to the secretary are manned by IAS officers on central deputation and officers from other services for their domain knowledge.

Fourth, there is a steep fall in the number of officers going on central deputation from 69% of the mandated reserves in 2014 to 30% in 2021.

What are the issues associated with the proposed amendments?

One, states should be consulted to make any drastic changes in the rules to ensure effective governance and cooperative federalism.

Two, officers of the IAS are under the dual control of the state governments and the central government, as the latter is their appointing authority.

Three, the scheme and structure of the IAS are based on sharing of power in order to enable both the Centre and states to utilize the officers’ services.

Fourth, grassroots-level administration remains with the states. Hence, any arbitrary and sudden transfers of officers from the states to the Centre will undermine governance in the state.

Fifth, states consider it as an infringement of the right to govern through their institutions of governance.

What is the way forward?

First, there is a need to review the conditions of service in the Centre and their standards, which has made central deputation a less attractive option.

Second, other issues like selection systems at higher levels and uncertainty regarding tenures of service for IAS officers on central deputation shall be re-examined.

Third, the solution to this problem lies in Cooperative federalism. The consultation process should include the officers to decide whether the proposed amendments are in the right direction. It should all be done without undermining the authority and functional efficiency and causing undue distress to officers.


The country must criminalize marital rape right away

Source: This post is based on the article “Why India must engage with Myanmar” published in Indian Express on 25th January 2022.

Syllabus: GS2- Laws, Institutions, and Bodies constituted for the Protection and Betterment of Vulnerable Sections

Relevance: Criminalization of Marital rape

News: The Delhi high court is hearing whether the marriage exception to Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code should be struck down. It will provide legal recourse to married women if they are forced into sexual intercourse by their husbands.

What is the present legal position?

According to law, consent is presumed and continuous for the duration of the marriage once the woman is married. It means that consent does not need to be negotiated before each marital sexual encounter.

What does NFHS-5 reveal about marital rape?

According to National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), over 24% of Indian women reported facing either domestic or sexual violence.

Instances of forced sex in the absence of consent are high in Karnataka (31%) and low in Odisha (2.5%). 5.4% of women in all-India reported that they had been forced into sex by their husbands, and over 27.4% reported being physically abused.

Why marital rape needs to be criminalized?

One, legal consequences attached with marital rape will act as a deterrent.

Two, forced sex and other forms of sexual violence is a violation of women’s human rights. It damages India’s global standing because India is a signatory to the convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women (CEDAW).

Three, marital rape has long-term consequences on women’s and their children’s health and well-being. For example, injuries, unwanted pregnancies, poor reproductive and sexual health and high risk of sexually transmitted infections along with poor mental health.

Why consent is a complex matter?

One, people see it as a marital obligation, and that is why many women give consent unwillingly. It is also justified on the ground that men have higher sex drive and sexual needs to be fulfilled.

Two, women are not comfortable in discussing sexual violence due to lack of vocabulary or imagery to describe forms of marital rape, presumption of consent, or lack of legal option.

Three, men’s rights activists have raised the issue of the misuse of marital rape law. For example, due to opposition and misuse, Section 498(A) is diluted, and now the Supreme Court has said that there is no need for immediate arrests of husbands and in-laws unless complainants bear visible signs of injury.

What is the way forward?

First, there is a need to change the law to give the problem visibility and acknowledge the harm.

Second, the law to criminalize marital rape should not make an exception only because consent is violated by a person known to the woman (her husband in this case).


Why India must engage with Myanmar

Source: This post is based on the article “Why India must engage with Myanmar” published in Indian Express on 25th January 2022.

Syllabus: GS 2 Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting the Indian interests.

Relevance: Understanding the importance of health India Myanmar relations.

News: Following the military coup in Myanmar, India should adopt a policy that should be a balance of India’s interest and India’s norms.

What is the importance of Myanmar for India?
Read here: Coup in Myanmar and India-Myanmar bilateral relations – Explained
What should be India’s policy after Tatmadaw (military) took over?

India should implement an unbiased and proactive “Neighbourhood First” strategy that facilitates the Act East policy crucial for India’s long-term security and economic interests.

To strengthen its relationship with Myanmar, India should support its critical requirements of systems and platforms like UAVs, surveillance systems, and communication equipment. It should also fasten the completion of the earlier agreement on the operationalization of the Sittwe port, the establishment of an oil refinery, and joint vaccine production facilities for $6 billion.

Considering this, the Indian foreign secretary’s visit in December 2021 to Myanmar marks great importance. It was the first visit by a senior official from the liberal world and has set the stage for rapprochement and dialogue with Myanmar

Read here: A delicate but necessary mission to Mynamar
What should India need to do to strengthen its relationship with Myanmar?

1) Kick-start the process of peace and stability 2) Proactively employ the existing “people-to-people” goodwill 3) Proximate ties between the two armies

Read here: India’s strategy for Myanmar

India’s challenge in European geopolitics

Source: This post is based on the article “India’s challenge in European geopolitics” published in Indian Express on 25th January 2022.

Syllabus: GS 2 Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting the Indian interests.

Relevance: Understanding European role in Indo Pacific.

News: The resignation of Germany’s Naval chief over his comments made in India, show the complexity of European geopolitics.

He commented on the importance of Russia in balancing China, NATOs difficulty in admitting Ukraine, and told that taking Crimea from Russia might be impossible. Though the comments reflect common sense, but they are against the diplomatic positions held by many countries in Europe.

What geopolitical contradictions does it reveal?

First, Europe remains geopolitically unstable. The European settlements of 1919, 1945, and 1991 have not provided stability.

Second, Europe is struggling to integrate Russia on mutually acceptable terms. Bolshevik revolution of 1917 put Russia and the West at odds with each other. The collapse of the Soviet Union has not resolved this contradiction.

Third, there is growing tension between the US and Europe. Though Europe relies on the US for its security, it resents American dominance over its geo-politics. This was stated by EU’s foreign policy chief Joseph Borrell and also by French president Emmanuel Macron.

Fourth, The emergence of the idea that Europe must look after its own security. Though the EU is a powerful economic entity ($17 trillion), it is still a weak security actor.

Despite these contradictions, India must realize that re-balancing China in Indo-Pacific cannot be done by the USA alone. It also needs the support of the EU.

Read more: India-Germany relations post-merkel era – Explained, pointwise
What lessons can India learn from the Indian national movement?

In the 18th century, Indian princes took advantage of contradictions between Britain and France to preserve their independence.

In the 19th century, Indian revolutionaries turned to Berlin to take advantage of Germany’s emergence. Germany supported the formation of the nationalist government of India in Kabul in 1915 headed by Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh.

Indian communists turned to Soviet Russia when it declared its cause of championing Asian liberation from European imperialism.

During the Second World War, Netaji turned to Germany and Japan. With Japan’s support, a provisional government of India was formed in Singapore in 1943.

What can India learn from its past?

India’s struggle for independence involved exploiting the contradictions between different imperial powers. As the world enters a similar movement, and there is an emergence of tensions between the US, UK, Europe, Russia, China, and Japan, India should leverage these contradictions for its national benefit.


In conjuction: On evolution of democratic society

Source: This post is based on the article “In conjuction: On evolution of democratic society” published in The Hindu on 25th January 2022.

Syllabus: GS 2  Indian Polity – Fundamental Rights.

Relevance : Understanding the significance of Fundamental Rights and duties.

News: Indian PM in his speech recently stated that India had wasted a lot of time “fighting for rights” and “neglecting one’s duties”.

What is the relationship between rights and duties?

The evolution of democratic society is centered on the expansion of individual and group rights. Duties are important for reinforcement of those rights. Thus, Duties and rights complement each other.

Any notion of rights and duties being opposite or hierarchical(superior/inferior) is incorrect.

The Indian Constitution enshrines equality and freedom as fundamental rights, along with rights against exploitation, freedom of religion, cultural and educational rights, and the right to Constitutional remedies.

Read here: List of Fundamental Rights in Indian Constitution

At the same time, citizens have duty to protect the integrity and sovereignty of the nation. Other duties include the duty to promote harmony and brotherhood and to develop scientific temper, humanism, and spirit of inquiry.

Read here: A false conflation between duties and rights

What is the relationship between duties and state?

A shift of state policy with an emphasis on duty is not correct. Duty is not something that citizens owe to the state. Obligation or duties of individual citizens can only be meaningful when their rights are guaranteed by the state.

E.g. When a citizen has the right to use a public road, they have the duty to obey traffic rules also. Citizens here cannot be obligated to obey traffic rules, without giving them the right to use public roads. Both rights and duties here can happen only in conjunction.

But with rising state coercion, restrictions on the rights of the citizens are on the rise.


India needs a national vision

Source: This post is based on the article “India needs a national vision” published in The Hindu on 25th January 2022.

Syllabus: GS 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors.

Relevance: Understanding how India should frame its national vision policy.

News:  In India, announcements are made in various sectors without a stated national vision. There is no official document to guide policy and decision-making.

What are the National vision documents of other countries?

China: It released a ‘Made in China 2025’ document in 2015, that talks about a 10-year plan for the development of 10 key high-tech industries. The target is to be 70% self-sufficient by 2025 and to achieve a dominant position globally by 2049. China’s 2019 defence white paper stated that by 2035, the armed forces would complete the “modernization of national defence and the military” and by 2049, “fully transform the people armed forces into world-class forces.”

USA: USA introduced its vision in 1969 to put a man on the moon by the end of the decade. A 10-year time frame was given to scientists with required financial support, and they met the national goal.

India: India announced its aim of sending astronauts into space by 2022. India carried out only two space launches in 2021 (of which one failed) while China set a world record of 47.

What lessons does India need to learn from other countries?

China initiated its economic reforms in the 1980s, when Deng Xiaoping asked his countrymen to “hide your capability and bide your time.” They were focused on first augmenting national power by gaining economic capability. Now, it is taking further strides with Made in China 2025 plan, a long-term space exploration program, and a military technology enhancement vision.

In the case of India, the announcements are made first, and later we think properly about it. For example, Atmanirbhar campaign.  In the era of globalization where technologies are protected by nations, international cooperation is the only way out. Some advancements by DRDO in UAV and drone technology have been made.

During the pandemic, India was not able to fulfill its vaccine export commitments during the second Covid wave showed that the world is interdependent. This also raised questions about India’s self-sufficient capabilities.

How should India frame its national vision policy?

The fact that every military emergency, like Kargil or Pulwana, has resulted in emergency arms purchase shows that there is a lack of national vision. There is a need of formulating a comprehensive and coherent multi-sectoral and multi-ministerial policymaking.

This calls for a three-step process:
1. First, adequate time should be given to experts to draft national policy.
2. Second, the vision should include economic and technological analysis to ensure a realistic national dream.
3. Third, the plan should be implemented by an experts body that will have political backing.


The devastating impact of school closure

Source: This post is based on the article “The devastating impact of school closure” published in The Hindu on 25th January 2022.

Syllabus: GS 2 Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to education.

Relevance: Understanding the need to open the schools again.

News: Schools are becoming an easy target for politicians. A decision of closing the schools makes them caring and sensitive, but it impacts the lives of children.

Why the reasoning provided for the closure of schools is not correct?

Protect children: The main reason given for closing the school is to protect the children. According to data, the risk of COVID-19 for those under 25 years is much lower than the risk from traffic accidents. So, school closure to “protect children” is not a good idea.

Schools as super-spreaders: There is an assumption that school acts as a hotspot, which is proved wrong scientifically. According to a study in Spain data from over 1 million children of all ages in schools, found that the R-value (rate of virus spread) is less than one for all schoolchildren and is as low as 0.2 for pre-primary children. So, the practice of shutting Anganwadis and primary schools in India is unscientific, when every other place in India is crowded: banks, markets, buses, etc.

Read here: The need to reopen anganwadis

Online education: It is a poor replacement for physical classes, especially for children in primary and pre-primary classes. These students require human interactions with teachers and peers, to learn, as well as to connect socially and emotionally.

Read here: Long term Impacts of School Closure – Explained, pointwise

Increase of mental health problems in children: An increase in mental health issues has been noticed in UK children due to schools closure. American Academy of Pediatrics also called the mental health crisis among children a national emergency. In India, apart from mental health, other issues are also on the rise among children. As per the 2011 Census, India had an estimated 10.1 million children in child labor.

Read here: Getting nutrition back on the school high table

Vaccination: There is a myth that schools are safe only after children are vaccinated against COVID-19. This is not true, as schools were open in several other countries even before adults were vaccinated. It is visible that current COVID-19 vaccines (even boosters) do not prevent infection or transmission. Also, the question of emergency authorization of vaccines for children is not required, as there is no COVID-19 emergency for children.

What is the way forward?

Education is a constitutional right. By closing schools for a long period and providing a poor substitute with online education, children’s rights are being violated. There is a need to reopen the schools again so that children can gradually come to their normal routine.

GS Paper 3


There’s No Blame in Shifting The Flame

Source: This post is based on the article “There’s No Blame In Shifting The Flame” published in ToI on 25th Jan 2022.

Syllabus: GS 3 – Issues related to Defence.

Relevance:  The National War Memorial, The Amar Jawan Jyoti

News: Some sections of the society are against the merging of the Amar Jawan Jyoti flame with the torch at the National War Memorial.

The Amar Jawan Jyoti: it was a tribute to the 3,483 martyrs of the 1971 Bangladesh War.

India Gate: it was built as a tribute to the fallen soldiers who fought under the British flag in World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War.

The National War Memorial: It was inaugurated in 2019. It is intended as a homage to martyrs of conflicts after Independence.

Why is the current place inappropriate? 

Read more here: https://forumias.com/blog/relocating-the-amar-jawan-jyoti-to-national-war-memorial-is-logical-and-beyond-approach/

Why the New National War Memorial is by far better suited to house the eternal flame of the Amar Jawan Jyoti?

Firstly, the Amar Jawan Jyoti has not been “extinguished”. It has merely been merged with the National War Memorial.

Secondly, the Amar Jawan Jyoti was always a “makeshift” memorial housed temporarily under the arch of India Gate. Ever since it was dedicated to the nation in 1972 the understanding was that the flame would be shifted to a more elaborate and permanent memorial.

Thirdly, soldiers inscribed on India Gate ‘a symbol of our colonial past’. They had no choice but to fight someone else’s arguably unjust war waged to preserve illegal colonial acquisitions


Covid-19 pandemic has widened economic inequities. Government interventions must be mindful of this challenge

Source– This post is based on the article “Covid-19 pandemic has widened economic inequities. Government interventions must be mindful of this challenge” published in Indian express on 24th Jan 2022.  

Syllabus– GS3- Inclusive growth. 

Relevance– Inequality, Pandemic  

News 

Since the onset of the pandemic, there has been growing concern that income and wealth disparities have widened in the country during this period.  

What are the factors that support this view? 

Pandemic has led to rise in unemployment rate, increase in casualisation of the workforce, rising dependence on MGNREGA and financial distress among MSMEs, along with rising profits of large firms and a soaring stock market. 

This all point out towards the fact that Covid-19 has exacerbated inequality. 

What does the data from various survey says about the trend? 

Surveys in India tend to underestimate household consumption and income when compared to data from the National Accounts. This makes it difficult to arrive at precise estimates of the distribution of income, consumption or wealth.  

However, recently a think tank called People’s Research on India’s Consumer Economy (PRICE) has conducted a survey. It provides a good estimate of how pandemic has led to an increase in inequality. 

What does this survey indicate? 

The survey indicates that the annual income of the poorest 20 per cent of households in India declined by around 53 per cent in 2020-21 compared to levels observed in 2015-16. In comparison, incomes of the top 20 per cent households grew by 39 per cent over the same period. 

The decline in incomes isn’t just limited to the bottom 20 per cent of households. Households in the second and third quintiles also witnessing a income fall, though of lower magnitudes.  

The urban poor have borne a disproportionate burden of the loss. 

What is the way forward? 

Since large parts of the economy continue to face financial distress, government should intervene through the upcoming Union budget to bridge this growing inequality.


Price we pay for privatisation delays”

Source– This post is based on the article “Price we pay for privatisation delays” published in Live Mint on 25th Jan 2022. 

Syllabus– GS3-Indian Economy and issues relating to planning. 

Relevance– Disinvestment, Strategic sector. 

News 

Government has been missing its disinvestment targets by huge margin and this delay has been hurting its revenues and PSUs both. 

What has been government’s progress on its disinvestment target? 

For 2021-22, the Centre set a disinvestment target of ₹1.75 trillion however so far it has collected just ₹9,329 crore. 

Although the finance minister’s budget speech in February 2021 listed BPCL, Air India, Shipping Corporation of India, Container Corporation of India, IDBI Bank, etc for disinvestment. The only transaction that has materialized is Air India going to the Tata Group. 

How is the delay in disinvestment hurting the PSU sector? 

This index has risen only 16% while the Sensex has nearly doubled since. 

Note- Bombay Stock Exchange’s S&P BSE Bharat 22 Index measures the stock performance of 22 companies that had seen different degrees of disinvestment by the Centre.  

The sale of BPCL, for instance, was approved by the Centre on 21 November 2019. In the three-month period prior to that announcement, the BPCL stock surged 60%. However, the sale process did not received the appropriate response , with global majors staying away. And the stock has dropped 10%.  

A company can either retain its surplus (for expansion or improvement in operations, or for tighter days) or distribute it to shareholders as dividends. Government to enhance its revenues is seeking huge dividends from PSUs leaving less with them for expansion.  

At the same time, the market value of PSUs(Which is a marker of how investors see them) has stagnated. 

In recent times, most disinvestment has involved giving away small stakes in the stock market or merging two PSUs. Both these ways are not profitable for PSUs and also lower the revenue potential for the Centre. 

What is the way forward? 

While on one hand Centre is presenting the view that its disinvestment policy is “being guided by the basic economic principle that government should discontinue in sectors where competitive markets can utilize the economic potential of such entities through strategic investors”.  

While at the same time, it is also forming new ventures. According to the Department of Public Enterprises, Government has a plan to bring 96 new PSUs. Government should try to sort out these dichotomies and should start execution of its other disinvestment Plans. 

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Climate hazards and vulnerability Atlas of India: Sundarbans is cyclone capital of India: IMD report

Source: This post is based on the article ‘Sundarbans is cyclone capital of India: IMD report’ published in Down To Earth on 25th January 2022.

What is the News?

India Meteorological Department (IMD) has released India’s first Climate hazards and vulnerability Atlas of India”.

What is the Climate Hazards and Vulnerability Atlas of India?

The Atlas has been developed by the scientists at the Climate Research and Services (CRS) office of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Pune.

The atlas is depicted using Geographic Information System(GIS) tools and provide district maps on hazard events and vulnerability.

The atlas will have two uses: a) It will act as a reference for impact-based warnings that IMD issue for various regions, and b) It can be used to plan climate-resilient infrastructure.

Read more: Sunderbans plantation: Shield against cyclones but obstruction for animals?
What are the key findings of the Atlas related to cyclonic events?

Most Impacted by Cyclones: West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district within which the larger share of the Sundarbans is located is impacted by cyclones the most frequently among Indian districts.

The return period of cyclonic storms in the district was 1.67 years on a scale of 1.5 to 60 years. Shorter return periods indicate more frequent cyclones.

Cyclone Vulnerability: Purba Medinipur in West Bengal had the highest cyclone vulnerability in the country for cyclones of all intensities. 

Baleshwar in Orissa topped the list in terms of vulnerability to severe cyclonic storms. South 24 Parganas was the second-most vulnerable to all cyclones, and ranked third in terms of severe cyclonic storms.

Other key Findings: Around 4% of the districts and 7% of the population in India are highly vulnerable to cyclones. Most of the coastal districts of the East Coast are highly vulnerable to cyclones.

Read more: Storm surges and relief: Why India should rethink its cyclone response

Can’t keep someone in jail indefinitely over national security fears: Supreme Court

Source: This post is based on the article Can’t keep someone in jail indefinitely over national security fears: Supreme Courtpublished in TOI on 25th January 2022.

What is the News?

In a recent judgement, the Supreme Court has emphasised on the judicial doctrine “bail is a rule, jail is an exception”.

What was the case about? 

A person and a BSF Commandant were arrested in a trans-border cattle smuggling case. A charge sheet was filed by the CBI last year.

After this, the BSF person was granted bail by the High Court, but the other accused was not granted bail on the suspicion that he is part of a larger conspiracy that could jeopardise national security.

Read more: Explained: When can an individual get statutory bail?
What did the Supreme Court say?

The Supreme Court granted bail to the other accused person.

The court said that no one can be imprisoned indefinitely while under investigation by government agencies based on a speculative suspicion that an accused’s actions are part of a larger conspiracy that could jeopardise national security.

Must read: Issue of Bail under UAPA (Unlawful Activities Prevention Act) – Explained, Pointwise

Clear and present danger: Lancet study highlights AMR time bomb in India, world

Source: This post is based on the article ‘Clear and present danger: Lancet study highlights AMR time bomb in India, world’ published in Down To Earth on 25th January 2022.

What is the News?

According to a study published in The Lancet, Antimicrobial resistance(AMR) is a major health threat both for the world and for India.

The study calculated the disease burden on the basis of two criteria: Deaths directly attributable to AMR and Deaths associated with AMR.

What are the key findings of the study?
Deaths directly attributable to AMR

Antimicrobial resistance(AMR) was directly attributable to the death of around 1.27 million people in 2019.

AMR played a key associated role in the 4.95 million deaths in 2019.

E.coli and MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) were among the drug-resistant bacteria that led to most deaths.

Deaths associated with AMR

AMR posed a threat to people of all ages. But young children were found to be at particularly high risk, with one in five deaths attributable to AMR occurring in children under the age of five.

The study also showed a global disparity in the AMR threat. The deaths per thousand associated with AMR for Central Europe, Eastern Europe, Central Asia, Caribbean, Middle East was found to be less than South Asia or Southeast Asia, East Asia and Oceania or sub-Saharan Africa Regions.

Read more: Antimicrobial resistance in aquaculture can hit exports, Centre warns states
What are the suggestions given by the study?

The study has made several suggestions such as a) Reducing human exposure to antibiotics in meat, b) Minimizing the unnecessary use of antibiotics — for example, in treating viral infections c) Preventing the need for antibiotics through vaccination programs and vaccine development and d) Providing more funding to develop new antibiotics and treatments.

Read more: Antimicrobial Resistance may Become a Silent Pandemic

Ministry of Electronics & IT releases 2nd Volume of Vision Document on Electronics Manufacturing

Source: This post is based on the articles:

 Ministry of Electronics & IT releases 2nd Volume of Vision Document on  Electronics Manufacturingpublished in PIB on 25th January 2022.

‘Government to push electronics manufacturing to $300 billion by 2026’ published in Livemint on 25th January 2022.

What is the News?

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has released a 5-year roadmap and Vision Document for the electronics sector, titled “$300 bn Sustainable Electronics Manufacturing & Exports by 2026”.

Note: The vision document comes in the backdrop of the PLI scheme announced by the government. The government has committed nearly US$17 billion over the next 6 years across four PLI Schemes – Semiconductor and Design, Smartphones, IT Hardware and Components. 

What is the objective of the report?

To lead India’s transformation into a US$300 billion electronics manufacturing powerhouse, from the current US$75 billion, by 2026.

To make electronics, India’s third-largest exports category, exponentially expanding exports to $120 billion from the current $10.6 billion by 2026.

Read more: YEAR END REVIEW 2021: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
Why should India concentrate on the electronics sector?

India has a great opportunity in the electronics sector due to 2 key factors: growth of digital consumption and growth and diversification of global value chains.

The key products that are expected to lead India’s growth in electronics manufacturing include Mobile Phones, IT Hardware (laptops, tablets), Consumer electronics (TV and audio), Industrial electronics, Auto electronics, Electronic components, LED Lighting, Strategic electronics, PCBA, Wearables and hearables, and Telecom equipment.

Among these products, Mobile manufacturing is expected to cross US$100 billion annual production – up from the current US$30 billion. It is expected to constitute nearly 40% of this ambitious growth.

Read more: Electronics incentive schemes launched
What are the recommendations given by the report to achieve projected growth in the electronics sector?

Firstly, the report focuses on a five-part strategy that is based on an “all of the government” approach. The strategy includes 1) Building competitiveness and scale by attracting global electronics manufacturers/brands, 2) Shifting and developing sub-assemblies and component ecosystems, 3) Building a design ecosystem 4) Nurturing Indian champions and 5) Steadily removing cost disabilities faced by India.

Secondly, the report makes a strong recommendation on the need to focus on aggregate domestic value addition in the electronics sector, as India transforms from its current state to one that is gearing to compete with the likes of China and Vietnam.

Thirdly, the report seeks a competitive tariff structure on electronic components and the removal of all regulatory uncertainty.

Fourthly, it recommends a “winner takes all” strategy backed by economies of scale and global competitiveness, new and revised incentive schemes for some sectors and the need to address issues of sustainability and ease of doing business.


Year-End Review-2021- Department of Biotechnology

Source: This post is based on the article Year-End Review-2021- Department of Biotechnologypublished in PIB on 25th January 2022.

What is the News?

The Department of Biotechnology has taken several initiatives in the year 2021.

Several of them are
Developments in Medical Biotechnology

Autologous hair follicle grafting is a recent therapy to stimulate the closure of non-healing wounds. A collaboration between the academicians and clinicians demonstrated that grafting hair follicles into chronic wounds from the patient’s own scalp promotes complete repair of the injured skin.

Unique Methods of Management and treatment of Inherited Disorders (UMMID) initiative 

Garbh-ini (Interdisciplinary Group for Advanced Research on Birth Outcomes—DBT India Initiative): It is a cohort study of pregnant women. Under this initiative, women were enrolled within 20 weeks of gestation and are followed until delivery and post-partum. The objectives are to identify clinical, epidemiologic, genomic, microbial correlates; discover molecular-risk markers by using an integrative approach and generate a risk-prediction algorithm for preterm birth. 

CAR-T cell therapy: Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) is a type of treatment in which a patient’s T cells (a type of immune system cell) are changed in the laboratory, so they will attack cancer cells.​​ CAR T-cell therapy is used to treat certain blood cancers, and it is being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer.

The first gene therapy clinical trial for a genetic disorder, Hemophilia A, in India has been approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). 

dbGENVOC

SWADESH

Developments in Agriculture Biotechnology

Tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus (ToLCNDV) infection causes severe losses in tomato yield worldwide. Scientists have found an effective defence strategy. They have employed Sw5a (R gene) that recognizes AC4 protein (viral effector) of ToLCNDV to restrict virus spread.

Crop varieties Developed

The country’s first ever non-GM (genetically modified) herbicide-tolerant basmati rice varieties Pusa Basmati 1979 and Pusa Basmati 1985 for direct seeded conditions have been developed. They can significantly save water and labour compared to conventional transplanting.

CR Dhan 803 (Pooja-Sub1) rice variety has been released for Odisha State. It has a high yield under submergence conditions, high hulling, milling, no grain chalkiness and intermediate amylose content. 

A drought tolerant chickpea varieties IPCL4 -14 and BG 4005 has been released for timely sown and rainfed conditions.

Other developments

IndiGau chip 

First One Health Mega Project: It was launched with 27 organisations led by DBT-National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad. This programme envisages carrying out surveillance of important bacterial, viral and parasitic infections of zoonotic as well as transboundary pathogens in India, including the North-eastern part of the country.

Biotech-PRIDE 

MANAV: Human Atlas Initiative

Biotech-KISAN

Star College Scheme

​​​​Mission Integrated Biorefineries: It was launched by India and Netherlands to accelerate the commercialization of integrated biorefineries and achieve the goal of replacing an additional 10% of fossil carbon equivalent by sustainable bio-carbon in fuels, chemicals, and materials derived from residues and wastes by 2030.

COVID Vaccine development: ZyCoV-D Vaccine, CORBEVAX, India’s first Intranasal Vaccine.

Covid Suraksha

Partnerships for Advancing Clinical Trials (PACT) programme: Under the PACT programme, DBT is working closely with the Ministry of External Affairs to strengthen capacities for facilitating phase III clinical trials of COVID vaccines in neighbouring / friendly nations.

Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) 

India International Science Festival (IISF)

Global Bio India 2021


Engineering Goods exports register a growth of 54% and jump to USD 81.8 Billion during April-December 2021 as compared to USD 52.9 Billion during same period in the previous year (2020)

Source: This post is based on the article Engineering Goods exports register a growth of 54% and jump to USD 81.8 Billion during April-December 2021 as compared to USD 52.9 Billion during same period in the previous year (2020) published in PIB on 25th January 2022.

What is the News?

The Engineering Goods exports have registered a growth of 54% during April-December 2021 as compared to the same period in the previous year (2020).

What are Engineering Goods?

The Engineering Goods sector comprises metal products, industrial machinery and equipment, automobiles and their components, transport equipment, bicycles, medical devices and renewable equipment.

Why has there been tremendous growth in Engineering Goods Exports?

The impressive growth in Engineering Goods exports in recent years has largely been due to the zero duty Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme.

What is the Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme?

Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Commerce & Industry 

The scheme forms part of the Foreign Trade Policy(FTP) 

Note: The present FTP policy came into force in 2015 with validity up to 2020. In order to provide policy stability during the pandemic period, the policy was extended up to 31st March 2022.

The scheme allows the import of capital goods for pre-production, production and post-production at Zero customs duty.  

However, imports under EPCG Scheme are subject to an export obligation. Such as, the goods manufactured from the imported machinery should be exported worth 6 times of the duties, taxes, and cess saved on the capital goods within 6 years from the Authorization issue date.


Key Initiatives and Achievements of Ministry of Rural Development during the year 2021

Source: This post is based on the article Key Initiatives and Achievements of Ministry of Rural Development during the year 2021published in PIB on 25th January 2022.

What is the News?

The Ministry of Rural Development has taken several initiatives in the year 2021.

Several of them are

Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)

Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY)

Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)

Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY)

Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G)

Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission (SPMRM)

Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)

Nutri Gardens

Medicinal Plantation

Yuktdhara Portal

Climate Resilience Information System and Planning (CRISP-M) 

National Social Assistance Programme(NSAP)

SAMBAL Mobile Application: It is a citizen-centric mobile application that provides (i) Information on NSAP schemes along with State top-ups (ii) Enrolment of new applicants, tracking of application, sanction and disbursement status.

Mains Answer Writing

[UPSC Interview 2023] – Transcript #160: Dinesh Dasa sir Board, Agriculture Optional, Rajasthan Home State

Date of Interview: 29 Feb Board: Dinesh Dasa sir Optional: Agriculture Home State: Rajasthan Keyword- Agriculture, Rajasthan Duration: 30-35 min To view all IAS Interview Transcripts 2023, visit this page Chairman I ll give you one statement reflect on it Gm crops are good but we degrading our genetic biodiversity Tell me why onion inflation is… Continue reading [UPSC Interview 2023] – Transcript #160: Dinesh Dasa sir Board, Agriculture Optional, Rajasthan Home State

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[UPSC Interview 2023] – Transcript #159: Lt, Gen Raj Shukla Board, PSIR Optional, Bihar Home State

Date of Interview: 19th Feb, Bihar Board: Lt, Gen Raj Shukla Optional: PSIR Home State: Bihar Background: IIT Roorkee Key words: IIT Roorkee , Bihar, patent office(DAF) Last to go forenoon session To view all IAS Interview Transcripts 2023, visit this page Chairman Discussion on Electoral bond. Issue with SC decision on bond Alternative to electoral… Continue reading [UPSC Interview 2023] – Transcript #159: Lt, Gen Raj Shukla Board, PSIR Optional, Bihar Home State

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[UPSC Interview 2023] – Transcript #158: Bidyut Behari Swain Board, Commerce & Accountancy Optional, Arunachal Pradesh Home State, JRF, writing Hobbies

Date of Interview: 28-02-24 (forenoon) Board: Bidyut Behari Swain Optional: Commerce & Accountancy Home State: Arunachal Pradesh Hobbies: Writing (others not asked) Daf- JRF, writing Time- around 35 mins To view all IAS Interview Transcripts 2023, visit this page Chairman Tell me about Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura (I am from NE) Tell me about JRF How to boost… Continue reading [UPSC Interview 2023] – Transcript #158: Bidyut Behari Swain Board, Commerce & Accountancy Optional, Arunachal Pradesh Home State, JRF, writing Hobbies

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Must Read Daily Current Affairs Articles 28th March 2024

About Must Read News Articles is an initiative by Team ForumIAS to provide links to the most important news articles of the day. It covers The Hindu newspaper. This saves the time and effort of students in identifying useful and important articles. With newspaper websites requiring a paid subscription beyond a certain number of fixed… Continue reading Must Read Daily Current Affairs Articles 28th March 2024

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Ace CSE 2024 Prelims with ForumIAS All-India Simulator Tests!

Dear CSE 2024 Aspirants,   Prelims 2024 has been postponed by almost a month. While this shift might have disrupted some of your plans, it also presents an invaluable opportunity to further refine your preparation and approach the examination with even greater confidence. Therefore, to capitalize on this opportunity, you need a thorough practice, to… Continue reading Ace CSE 2024 Prelims with ForumIAS All-India Simulator Tests!

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[UPSC Interview 2023] – Transcript #157: Sanjay Verma Board, Sociology Optional, Maharashtra Home State, Teaching Hobby

Date of Interview: 28-02-24 (forenoon) Board: Sanjay Verma Sir Optional: Sociology Home State: Maharashtra Hobby: Teaching DAF- Maharashtra,  Civil engg graduate, solid waste management, teaching, Sociology optional To view all IAS Interview Transcripts 2023, visit this page Chairman It was quite a long wait for you. How was your experience As you are from Maharashtra, have… Continue reading [UPSC Interview 2023] – Transcript #157: Sanjay Verma Board, Sociology Optional, Maharashtra Home State, Teaching Hobby

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Better utilization of fertilizer and food subsidies: Basic subsidies can be climate focused and aimed better

Source: The post better utilization of fertilizer and food subsidies has been created, based on the article “Basic subsidies can be climate focused and aimed better” published in “Live mint” on 27th March 2024. UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3-economy- Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices. News: The article… Continue reading Better utilization of fertilizer and food subsidies: Basic subsidies can be climate focused and aimed better

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Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (UMTA): Indian cities cry out for UMTA

Source: The post Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (UMTA) has been created, based on the article “Indian cities cry out for UMTA” published in “Business standard” on 27th March 2024. UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- economy- infrastructure News: The article discusses the need for Indian cities to create a Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (UMTA). This… Continue reading Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (UMTA): Indian cities cry out for UMTA

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The shift in India’s foreign policy language – How Delhi talks to world

Source: The post India’s foreign policy language has shifted from being defensive to more assertive and confident has been created, based on the article “How Delhi talks to world” published in “Indian express” on 27th March 2024. UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2-International Relations-Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s… Continue reading The shift in India’s foreign policy language – How Delhi talks to world

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UN resolution on the ceasefire in Gaza: Express View on US, Israel and UN: A loud abstention

Source: The post UN resolution on the ceasefire in Gaza has been created, based on the article “Express View on US, Israel and UN: A loud abstention” published in “Indian express” on 27th March 2024. UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2-International relations- Important International institutions, agencies and fora, their structure, mandate. News: This article discusses… Continue reading UN resolution on the ceasefire in Gaza: Express View on US, Israel and UN: A loud abstention

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