Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – CARE (01-10-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Art and Culture: Dadasaheb Phalke Award for Mithun Chakraborty |
| International Relations: Venezuelan opposition figure Machado wins top European rights prize |
| Britain to become first G7 country to end coal power as last plant closes |
| Polity and Governance: Manipur government extends AFSPA in hill districts for 6 months |
| Environment and Ecology: Climate change hit over 50% cotton farmers surveyed in Maharashtra, Gujarat in 5 years |
Dadasaheb Phalke Award for Mithun Chakraborty
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 1 Art and Culture
Context: Dadasaheb Phalke Award
Why in News
- Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty will be honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award at the 70th National Film Awards.
Overview
- The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is India’s highest recognition in cinema, honoring lifetime contributions to the field.
- In 2024, Mithun Chakraborty was selected for this prestigious award, highlighting his remarkable impact on Indian cinema.
Significance of Mithun Chakraborty’s Contribution:
- Iconic Role in Disco Dancer (1982): Chakraborty’s role in Disco Dancer marked a major cultural shift, popularizing disco music in India. His performance contributed to the film becoming a major commercial success both domestically and internationally, especially in the Soviet Union.
- Cultural Influence: The film helped embed disco culture in India, which was reflected in Bollywood’s music and fashion in the 1980s. It also showcased how Bollywood could adapt global trends, reflecting the broader socio-cultural changes happening in India during that era.
- International Appeal: Mithun’s fame extended beyond India, especially in the Soviet Union, where Disco Dancer became the highest-grossing foreign film. This underscores the international influence of Indian cinema during the Cold War period.
Recent Recognition
- In 2024, Mithun Chakraborty was also honoured with the Padma Bhushan Award, solidifying his status as a cultural icon.
- He has ventured into digital platforms with Bestseller and continues to inspire through reality shows like Dance India Dance.
Dadasaheb Phalke Award
- The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is India’s highest cinematic honour, instituted in 1969 in memory of Dadasaheb Phalke, the father of Indian cinema.
- Mithun Chakraborty becomes the 54th recipient, joining the ranks of legends like Raj Kapoor, Lata Mangeshkar, and Waheeda Rehman, among others.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the Dadasaheb Phalke Award:
1. The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is India’s highest honor in cinema, instituted in 1969. 2. Mithun Chakraborty is the 54th recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. 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 |
Q. Consider the following statements in respect of Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards. (2021)
1. Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards are titles under the Article 18(1) of the Constitution of India. 2. Padma Awards, which were instituted in the year 1954, were suspended only once. 3. The number of Bharat Ratna Awards is restricted to a maximum of five in a particular year. Which of the above statements are not correct? (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans. (d) |
| Answer 1– C
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct: The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is India’s highest honor in cinema, named after Dadasaheb Phalke, the father of Indian cinema. It was instituted in 1969 to recognize lifetime contributions to Indian cinema. · Statement 2 is correct: In 2024, Mithun Chakraborty was selected as the 54th recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, joining the ranks of other legendary actors and contributors to Indian cinema.
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Venezuelan opposition figure Machado wins top European rights prize
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS 2- International Relations
Context: Council of Europe Rights prize
Why in News
- The Council of Europe awarded its 2024 rights prize to Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado for her struggle for democracy under President Nicolas Maduro’s iron-fisted rule.
Introduction:
- Recently, Maria Corina Machado, a key opposition leader from Venezuela, was awarded the 2024 Vaclav Havel Human Rights Prize by the Council of Europe.
- This award is significant in the context of ongoing political repression in Venezuela under President Nicolas Maduro.
- Machado’s recognition highlights her contributions to the struggle for democracy and human rights in a highly authoritarian regime.
Background of the Vaclav Havel Human Rights Prize:
- The Vaclav Havel Human Rights Prize was established in 2013 by the Council of Europe to honor individuals, civil society organizations, and institutions that make significant contributions to defending human rights, promoting democracy, and advancing the rule of law.
- The award is named after Vaclav Havel, a former Czech dissident, playwright, and president who played a pivotal role in the post-communist transformation of Czechoslovakia.
Previous laureates include notable figures such as:
- Osman Kavala (2023), a Turkish philanthropist and civil society activist.
- Vladimir Kara-Murza (2022), a Russian activist and opposition leader.
The award has historically recognized those fighting for justice, democracy, and human rights in repressive political regimes.
Significance of Maria Corina Machado’s Award:
- First Latin American Recipient: Maria Corina Machado is the first Latin American to receive this award, signifying the global recognition of her efforts to promote democracy in Venezuela. This highlights the growing international concern over Venezuela’s human rights violations under President Nicolas Maduro’s regime.
- Human Rights and Democracy in Venezuela:
- Political Repression: Venezuela under Maduro has been characterized by authoritarianism, economic mismanagement, human rights abuses, and the suppression of political opposition. Machado’s recognition amplifies the struggle faced by Venezuelan opposition figures and citizens.
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- Disputed Elections: Machado played a central role in the 2024 Venezuelan presidential elections, where the opposition believes their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, won, although Maduro claimed victory. This electoral dispute is central to the current political crisis in Venezuela.
- Machado’s Struggle for Democracy:
- Despite being in hiding due to government crackdowns, Machado continues to represent the voice of millions of Venezuelans who seek a return to democracy. Her dedication, despite threats and arrests of her supporters, underscores her importance in the broader fight against authoritarianism in Latin America.
- In her acceptance speech, Machado dedicated the award to the Venezuelan people, emphasizing that their struggle for truth and justice persists even under dictatorship.
International Implications:
- Global Attention to Venezuela’s Human Rights Crisis: The award brings global attention to the situation in Venezuela. It pressures the international community, including human rights organizations, to focus on Venezuela’s ongoing political and human rights crisis.
- Soft Power and Diplomacy:
- The award serves as a diplomatic tool to highlight human rights violations in Venezuela. By honoring Machado, the Council of Europe underscores the importance of upholding democratic values worldwide, influencing global diplomatic efforts in promoting democracy in authoritarian regimes.
- Symbolism of the Award: Machado’s recognition aligns with the legacy of Vaclav Havel, a leader who fought against communist oppression in Czechoslovakia. This creates a symbolic parallel between post-communist struggles in Eastern Europe and the current political repression in Venezuela.
Europe’s Vaclav Havel Human Rights Prize
- The Vaclav Havel Human Rights Prize is one of the most prestigious international awards recognizing individuals, civil society organizations, and institutions that have made outstanding contributions to the defense of human rights.
- It was established by the Council of Europe to honor the legacy of Vaclav Havel, a Czech dissident, playwright, and president who played a pivotal role in dismantling communist rule in Czechoslovakia.
Background of the Award:
The prize was created in 2013 in collaboration between:
- Council of Europe’s Parliamentary Assembly (PACE),
- Vaclav Havel Library, and
- Charta 77 Foundation (a Czech organization named after the human rights manifesto “Charta 77” authored by Vaclav Havel and other dissidents).
The award is presented annually to recognize those who have shown exceptional commitment to defending human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. It aims to raise awareness of human rights violations around the world and to support the work of those fighting for justice and freedom.
Who was Vaclav Havel?
- Vaclav Havel was a key figure in the Velvet Revolution (1989) that peacefully ended communist rule in Czechoslovakia. He later became the first president of the post-communist Czech Republic (1993–2003).
- As a dissident and intellectual, Havel was known for his writings on human rights, freedom, and democracy, making him a symbol of peaceful resistance against authoritarian regimes.
- His vision of non-violent political activism and commitment to democratic ideals made him an international human rights icon.
Purpose of the Award:
- The prize is awarded to those who have demonstrated courage, integrity, and persistence in defending human rights, often in the face of significant personal danger or risk.
- The goal is to support and recognize the efforts of human rights defenders worldwide, drawing attention to causes and individuals who may otherwise be overlooked by the international community.
Selection Process:
The Vaclav Havel Human Rights Prize is awarded after a rigorous selection process:
- Nominations: Nominations are submitted by non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international organizations, and national parliaments. Nominees must have shown outstanding action in the defense of human rights.
- Shortlisting: A panel of independent experts, including human rights specialists and members of the Council of Europe’s Parliamentary Assembly (PACE), reviews the nominations and creates a shortlist.
- Awarding: The final laureate is chosen by the PACE Bureau, based on the recommendations of the panel. The award is presented at a special ceremony during the autumn session of PACE in Strasbourg.
Prize Components:
- Monetary Award: The winner receives a monetary prize of €60,000.
- Recognition: The prize brings global attention to the laureate’s work, offering them support and visibility on an international platform.
- Symbolic Importance: The award is a symbolic gesture that reinforces the laureate’s moral courage and perseverance in defending human rights.
Previous Notable Laureates:
- Osman Kavala (2023) – A Turkish philanthropist and civil society leader, Kavala remains imprisoned after being arrested in 2017 for his activism in Turkey. His recognition highlighted the importance of civil society and political freedoms in the country.
- Vladimir Kara-Murza (2022) – A Russian opposition politician, journalist, and human rights activist who was imprisoned for his opposition to the Russian government and Vladimir Putin. His recognition symbolized the struggle for democratic values in Russia.
- Ilham Tohti (2019) – A Uyghur intellectual and advocate for Uyghur rights in China, Tohti was awarded while serving a life sentence for his activism on behalf of China’s Uyghur minority. The award underscored the repression faced by ethnic minorities in authoritarian regimes.
- International Awareness: The Vaclav Havel Human Rights Prize draws global attention to human rights violations in different parts of the world. It creates a platform for voices that may otherwise be suppressed by authoritarian regimes.
Impact of the Award:
- Support for Laureates: Many laureates, such as those imprisoned or facing threats, gain increased protection and support from international bodies following their recognition. The award often results in calls for their release or greater scrutiny on their government’s actions.
- Moral Authority: The prize acts as a moral force, sending a clear message that human rights violations will not be ignored by the international community. It reinforces the values of freedom, justice, and dignity.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ | ||||||||||
Q2. Match the following individuals with their respective achievements:
Select the correct match: a) 1-A, 2-C, 3-D, 4-B b) 1-B, 2-A, 3-D, 4-C c) 1-A, 2-D, 3-B, 4-C d) 1-A, 2-B, 3-C, 4-D
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Q. The Pulitzer Prize is associated with which one of the following? (2007)
(a) Environmental protection (b) Olympic Games (c) Journalism (d) Civil Aviation Ans. (c)
|
| Answer 2– A
Explanation – · Maria Corina Machado (1-A): Maria Corina Machado is a prominent Venezuelan opposition leader. She was awarded the 2024 Vaclav Havel Human Rights Prize for her struggle for democracy under the rule of President Nicolas Maduro. Machado is recognized for her efforts in advocating for democratic values in Venezuela, despite facing persecution. · Osman Kavala (2-C): Osman Kavala is a Turkish philanthropist and civil society leader. He was awarded the 2023 Vaclav Havel Human Rights Prize for his work in defending civil rights in Turkey. Despite being imprisoned for his activism, his contributions to human rights were recognized globally. · Ilham Tohti (3-D): Ilham Tohti is a Uyghur intellectual and advocate for Uyghur rights. He was awarded the 2019 Vaclav Havel Human Rights Prize for his efforts to promote the rights of the Uyghur minority in China, even though he has been imprisoned by Chinese authorities. · Vladimir Kara-Murza (4-B): Vladimir Kara-Murza is a Russian opposition politician and human rights activist. He was awarded the 2022 Vaclav Havel Human Rights Prize for his courageous stance against authoritarianism in Russia. He was imprisoned for his political activism but was released and continues to advocate for democracy. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Manipur government extends AFSPA in hill districts for 6 months
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS2- Polity and Governance
Context: Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA)
Why in News
The Manipur government on Wednesday extended the imposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in the whole State — except in the jurisdiction of 19 police stations in seven districts of the Imphal Valley — for another six months.
AFSPA Overview
- The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) is a law enacted by the Indian government in 1958. It grants special powers to the Indian Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in areas deemed “disturbed.”
- Under AFSPA, security forces can arrest without a warrant, conduct searches, and use lethal force if necessary to maintain public order. It also provides immunity to the armed forces from prosecution without the prior approval of the central government.
AFSPA in Manipur
- AFSPA has been in effect in Manipur since 1981, covering most parts of the state due to insurgencies and the volatile security situation. The insurgent groups, many of which operate from across the border in Myanmar, advocate for secession and have engaged in violent activities.
- Manipur, which became a state in 1972, was a Union Territory before that. AFSPA was first imposed on Naga-dominated areas of the state and has been progressively applied across more districts due to insurgency-related issues.
Current Situation in Manipur: Extension of AFSPA
- On October 1, 2024, the Manipur government extended the imposition of AFSPA for six more months across the state, except for 19 police station limits in seven districts of the Imphal Valley (where the majority Meitei community lives).
- This “disturbed area” status continues to cover all the hill districts, which are dominated by tribal communities (Kuki, Naga, etc.). AFSPA has been gradually withdrawn from the Imphal Valley since 2022, indicating an improvement in the security situation in these areas.
Ethnic Violence and Insurgency
- In 2023 and 2024, ethnic violence between the Meitei majority and the Kuki tribal population led to a significant resurgence of insurgent groups. These groups are primarily based in Myanmar and are trying to exploit the unrest.
- The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has even registered a case against the Myanmar-based leadership of insurgent outfits, citing a transnational conspiracy to wage war against India.
Army’s Demand for AFSPA in the Valley
- While AFSPA remains in the hill districts, the army has argued for its re-imposition in the valley districts (Imphal and nearby areas). They claim that the removal of AFSPA has hindered their operations against insurgent groups, who have regained some influence during the recent wave of violence.
- Despite this, the Manipur government has chosen to maintain the current status quo and avoid re-imposing AFSPA in the valley districts for now.
Challenges of Security Operations
- The state government is considering a “one district, one force” approach, which would deploy a unified security force in each district for better operational efficiency.
- There are around 40,000 Central security personnel, including the army, deployed in Manipur to help control the law-and-order situation.
Public Sensitivity and Resistance to AFSPA
- The issue of AFSPA is highly sensitive and has often led to public protests and resistance. The government has highlighted that a detailed ground-level security assessment is necessary before changing the current “disturbed area” status, and any premature decision could attract further public criticism.
- The Irom Sharmila movement, which lasted for over 16 years (until 2016), is one of the most prominent examples of protests against AFSPA, particularly after the 2004 killing of Thangjam Manorama, which sparked significant unrest in Imphal.
Gradual Withdrawal of AFSPA in Manipur
- Since 2022, AFSPA has been gradually withdrawn from many parts of Manipur’s Imphal Valley.
- It was removed from 15 police stations in six districts in April 2022, and further from four police stations in 2023.
- Currently, 19 police station areas in seven districts have been exempted from AFSPA’s jurisdiction.
AFSPA Across Other States
- AFSPA is also applied in Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and parts of Assam.
- However, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs issues notifications for AFSPA in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh, while the Manipur and Assam state governments decide for their respective regions.
Implications of AFSPA
- AFSPA provides armed forces with broad powers but is also viewed as a source of human rights violations by civil society and activist groups.
- The Manipur government’s cautious approach in deciding whether to extend AFSPA reflects the delicate balance between security and human rights in the region.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. Which of the following statements regarding the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) is/are correct?
1. AFSPA grants special powers to armed forces in “disturbed areas” to maintain public order. 2. The Act was first enacted in 1958 and has been applied primarily in the northeastern states of India. 3. AFSPA allows armed forces to arrest individuals without a warrant and conduct searches without prior approval. Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 and 2 only |
Q. If a particular area is brought under the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution of India, which one of the following statements best reflects the consequence of it?
a) This would prevent the transfer of land of tribal people to non-tribal people. b) This would create a local self-governing body in that area. c) This would convert that area into a Union Territory. d) The State having such areas would be declared a Special Category State. Ans : a |
| Answer 3 B
Explanation · Statement 1 is Correct. AFSPA is designed to give the armed forces special powers to act in “disturbed areas” to maintain public order. It allows them to take necessary actions in response to civil unrest and insurgency. · Statement 2 is Correct. AFSPA was indeed enacted in 1958 and has primarily been applied in the northeastern states of India, such as Manipur, Nagaland, and Assam, where there have been longstanding issues related to insurgency and civil unrest. AFSPA allows armed forces to arrest individuals without a warrant and conduct searches without prior approval. · Statement 3 is Correct. Under AFSPA, armed forces are empowered to arrest individuals without a warrant and conduct searches without prior approval. This is a key provision of the Act, aimed at enabling rapid response to threats in disturbed areas. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
Britain to become first G7 country to end coal power as last plant closes
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2- International Relations
Context: The first G7 country to end coal-fired power production
Why in News
- Britain will become the first G7 country to end coal-fired power production with the closure of its last plant, Uniper’s Ratcliffe-on-Soar in England’s Midlands.
Purpose and Importance:
- The recent closure of the last coal-fired power plant in Britain, Uniper’s Ratcliffe-on-Soar, marks a significant milestone in global energy transition efforts and highlights the United Kingdom’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.
- This move aligns with international climate agreements and reflects the broader trend of phasing out fossil fuels in favor of renewable energy sources.
Historical Context of Coal Power in Britain
- Longstanding Reliance on Coal: For over 140 years, coal has been a primary energy source in Britain, significantly contributing to electricity generation. In 2015, coal accounted for nearly 30% of the country’s electricity supply.
- Decline of Coal Use: The UK government recognized the environmental impacts of coal power and announced a plan to phase out coal plants by 2025 as part of its strategy to meet climate targets. By the end of 2023, coal’s share in electricity generation had dropped to just over 1%.
Climate Goals and Commitments
- Net Zero Emissions by 2050: The UK aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, necessitating drastic reductions in emissions from energy production. This goal is in line with commitments made under the Paris Agreement.
- Decarbonizing the Electricity Sector by 2030: The UK plans to transition its electricity sector to low-carbon sources by 2030, relying on renewable energy technologies such as wind and solar power.
Impact on Greenhouse Gas Emissions
- Reduction in Emissions: The closure of coal power plants has contributed to a significant reduction in Britain’s greenhouse gas emissions, which have more than halved since 1990. This decline is attributed to the shift from coal to cleaner energy sources.
- Energy Sector Emissions: The energy sector is responsible for approximately three-quarters of total greenhouse gas emissions in the UK. Transitioning away from coal is a crucial step in reducing overall emissions.
International Reactions and G7 Commitments
- G7 Agreements on Coal: In April 2024, G7 countries committed to phasing out coal power within the first half of the next decade. However, this agreement has been met with criticism for allowing flexibility for coal-dependent economies like Japan, the US, and Germany.
- Calls for Urgency: Environmental advocates have stressed the need for urgent action to meet the 2030 targets and criticized countries that continue to rely heavily on coal power, as it undermines global climate goals.
Economic Implications and Job Transition
- New Energy Jobs: The UK government has emphasized that while the coal era is ending, it is also ushering in an age of “good energy jobs” in the renewable sector. Transitioning to renewable energy sources is expected to create new employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth.
About G-7
- G-7 is a group of the most developed and advanced economies of the world. i.e. France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, Japan, the United States, and Canada.
- The leaders of important international organisations like the European Union (EU), IMF, World Bank and the United Nations are also invited.
- Summits are held annually and hosted on a rotation basis by the group’s members.
- The G7 originated from the Oil crisis of 1973 and the resulting financial crisis, which forced the leaders of 6 major industrial nations to convene a meeting in 1975.
- The participating countries were the US, UK, France, West Germany, Japan, and Italy.
- Canada joined in 1976, leading to the formation of the G7.
- It was known as the ‘G8’ for several years after the original seven were joined by Russia in 1997, but it was renamed as G7 after Russia was expelled as a member in 2014 following its annexation of the Crimea region of Ukraine.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q4. Which of the following statements is correct regarding Britain’s closure of coal-fired power production?
Select the correct answer using the code given below: A. 1 only
|
Q. With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2016)
Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1 and 3 only Answer: (b) |
| Answer 4 A
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct. Britain indeed became the first G7 country to close all its coal-fired power plants, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to combat climate change. · The closure of coal power plants in Britain is expected to lead to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions. · Statement 2 is incorrect. The closure of coal power plants is aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, the shift away from coal has significantly contributed to a reduction in Britain’s greenhouse gas emissions. The last coal power plant to close in Britain was located in Scotland. · Statement 3 is incorrect. The last coal power plant to close was Uniper’s Ratcliffe-on-Soar, located in England’s Midlands, not in Scotland. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Climate change hit over 50% cotton farmers surveyed in Maharashtra, Gujarat in 5 years
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3- Environment and Ecology
Context: Impact of Climate Change
Why in news
- The survey was conducted by a U.K.-based think tank International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) and the All-India Disaster Mitigation Institute (AIDMI).
Overview
- The report from the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) and the All-India Disaster Mitigation Institute (AIDMI) highlights the severe impacts of climate change on cotton farmers in Gujarat and Maharashtra, two major cotton-producing states in India.
Key Findings of the Survey
- Impact of Climate Events:
- Over 50% of surveyed cotton farmers reported experiencing either major or complete crop loss due to floods and droughts in the past five years. This indicates that climate-related extreme weather events are significantly affecting agricultural productivity.
- Changing Climate Conditions:
- The majority of the 360 farmers surveyed noted longer dry spells, higher average temperatures, and an increase in days of extreme heat. This aligns with broader trends observed in many agricultural regions due to climate change.
- Demographics of the Survey:
- The survey was conducted in September 2023, focusing on cotton farmers in Surendranagar (Gujarat) and Sambhaji Nagar (Maharashtra). Most respondents were landowners, with landholdings primarily under 10 acres, indicating that many farmers are smallholders.
- Vulnerability of Cotton Farmers:
- India is the world’s largest cotton producer, contributing about 25% of global production. However, smallholder farmers, particularly women, face significant risks from climate change, jeopardizing their livelihoods and the overall global textile supply chain.
- Regional Climate Vulnerability:
- The report notes that western and central India are more prone to drought-like conditions, whereas northern and northeastern regions are more affected by flooding. This geographical disparity highlights the uneven impacts of climate change across the country.
Farmers’ Coping Strategies
- Diversification and Crop Rotation:
- Farmers are adapting to climate threats by diversifying their crops and rotating them, which can help reduce reliance on a single crop and mitigate risks.
- Investment in Resources:
- Some farmers are taking loans to invest in irrigation and other resources to better cope with climate challenges.
- Financial Pressures:
- Many farmers are tapping into savings to cope with losses, but not all have this option. Some have been forced to sell land or livestock, or even reduce healthcare access and food consumption due to financial strain.
Insurance Coverage and Government Support
- Insurance Uptake:
- Approximately two-thirds of respondents reported having crop insurance, with higher coverage in Maharashtra (81%) compared to Gujarat (42%). However, only 8% had livestock insurance, indicating a gap in financial protection for other agricultural assets.
- Awareness and Access:
- A significant barrier to insurance uptake and government support is a lack of awareness among farmers. About one-third of those surveyed reported having no access to government programs, which could provide essential support in times of crisis.
- Role of Government and Investors:
- The report stresses the need for more robust government programs and better awareness of existing schemes. It also calls for fashion chains and investors to support cotton farmers in coping with climate shocks, emphasizing that aiding those who supply key commodities is both a moral obligation and a smart business strategy.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q5. Consider the following statements regarding the impact of climate change on cotton farmers in India:
Which of the following is/are correct? A. 1 only |
Q. The black cotton soil of India has been formed due to the weathering of (2021)
(a) brown forest soil Ans: (b)
|
| Answer 5 A
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct. The survey indicates that over 50% of the surveyed farmers have suffered significant crop losses due to floods and droughts in recent years. · Statement 2 is incorrect. While many farmers reported having crop insurance, the uptake is uneven, and a significant portion of them do not have access to comprehensive insurance schemes, highlighting gaps in coverage. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |