Current Affairs Reverse Engineering- CARE (27-11-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| International Relations: Israel, Hezbollah accept ceasefire deal brokered by U.S. |
| Australia’s House of Representatives passes bill that would ban young children from social media |
| Economy: ‘Seal of Authenticity’ to certify Jammu and Kashmir crafts for global market |
| National Milk Day: Recalling Verghese Kurien’s role in pioneering the white revolution |
| Disaster Management: Centre approves ₹1,115 crore to states for disaster mitigation, capacity-building projects |
Israel, Hezbollah accept ceasefire deal brokered by U.S.
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2 International Relations
Context: Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire
Why in News
- The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah marks a significant milestone in addressing the devastating conflict across the Israeli-Lebanese border, which began amidst the fallout of the Gaza war in 2023.
Background of the Conflict
- The Gaza war in 2023 ignited widespread violence, spilling over into the Israeli-Lebanese border. Hezbollah, a Lebanon-based militant group backed by Iran, played a significant role in the hostilities.
- Humanitarian Toll: Thousands of lives have been lost, and large-scale displacement has occurred on both sides of the border.
Brokered Ceasefire Agreement
- Facilitators: The United States and France mediated the agreement, showcasing strong international diplomatic engagement.
- Timeline of Implementation:
- Ceasefire began at 2:00 a.m. GMT on November 27, 2024.
- Israel’s security cabinet approved the agreement with a 10-1 vote.
- Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu played key roles in endorsing the accord.
Provisions of the Agreement
- Cessation of Hostilities:
- The agreement aims for a permanent cessation of hostilities.
- Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasized that any future threats from Hezbollah or other militant groups would be met decisively.
- Withdrawal of Israeli Forces:
- Israel will gradually withdraw troops from southern Lebanon over a 60-day period.
- The Lebanese Army, with at least 5,000 troops, will take control of the territory near the Israeli border to prevent Hezbollah from rebuilding its infrastructure.
- Civilian Repatriation:
- Civilians displaced on both sides of the border will be able to safely return to their communities.
- International Monitoring:
- The United States, France, and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) will oversee a mechanism to ensure compliance and deter violations.
Responses to the Agreement
- Israel:
- Prime Minister Netanyahu highlighted the strategic advantage gained, claiming Hezbollah had been “set back decades” through the destruction of its leadership, rocket and missile stockpiles, and infrastructure.
- The ceasefire allows Israel to redirect focus to threats posed by Iran and replenish military supplies.
- Lebanon:
- Prime Minister Mikati welcomed the deal, emphasizing the Lebanese state’s sovereignty and the army’s role in maintaining peace.
- Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to the agreement by ensuring army deployment in sensitive regions.
- Hezbollah:
- While Hezbollah did not formally comment, senior official Hassan Fadlallah stated that the group would emerge stronger from the war. He emphasized continued “resistance” and dismissed disarmament as an Israeli demand that failed.
- Iran:
- No official comment has been made, but Iran’s role as Hezbollah’s key backer remains central to the broader regional dynamics.
- France and the United States:
- French President Emmanuel Macron termed the deal a culmination of months of diplomacy.
- The U.S. expressed a commitment to peace enforcement through non-combat mechanisms.
Strategic Implications
- For Israel: Israel retains “complete military freedom of action” to respond to any violations or rearmament by Hezbollah. Netanyahu aims to maintain a deterrent posture while consolidating military gains.
- For Lebanon: The agreement strengthens the Lebanese Army’s control in the south, reducing Hezbollah’s autonomy in that region. Civilians’ return is expected to stabilize local economies.
- For Regional Stability: The accord highlights international efforts to de-escalate conflicts in the volatile Middle East. The ceasefire may reduce the immediate risk of a broader regional war involving Iran, Israel, and their allies.
Challenges Ahead
- Monitoring and Enforcement:
- Ensuring that Hezbollah does not rebuild its military capabilities poses a significant challenge.
- The role of UNIFIL and the mechanism involving the U.S. and France will be critical.
- Political Dynamics:
- Hezbollah’s claim of emerging stronger and its rhetoric of resistance may indicate potential non-compliance in the future.
- Domestic and regional politics in Lebanon could influence the durability of the ceasefire.
- Iran’s Role: Iran’s silence on the ceasefire raises questions about its future moves in supporting Hezbollah and other allied groups.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire agreement of November 2024:
1. The ceasefire was brokered by the United States and France. 2. The agreement allows civilians on both sides to return to their communities. 3. Iran played a key role in mediating the ceasefire agreement. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3 |
Q. With reference to the United Nations General Assembly, consider the following statements: (2022)
Which of the statements given above are correct? a. 1 and 2 only b. 2 and 3 only c. 1 and 3 only d. 1, 2 and 3 Ans: d |
| Answer – 1 – A
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct: The ceasefire agreement was facilitated by the United States and France after months of diplomatic efforts. U.S. President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron actively engaged with the Israeli and Lebanese authorities to achieve this outcome. · Statement 2 is correct: One of the core provisions of the agreement is the facilitation of civilian return. The ceasefire ensures that displaced civilians from both sides of the border can safely return to their homes as the violence subsides. · Statement 3 is Incorrect: Although Iran is a major backer of Hezbollah, it did not play any formal role in brokering or mediating the ceasefire. Iran’s involvement in the conflict has been indirect, through its support for Hezbollah, and it has not commented publicly on the ceasefire. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Australia’s House of Representatives passes bill that would ban young children from social media
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS2 International Relations
Context: Overview of the Australian Bill on Social Media Age Restrictions
Why in News
- Australia’s House of Representatives passed a bill to ban children under 16 from social media, with heavy fines for non-compliance, aiming to enhance online safety despite concerns over privacy and effectiveness.
Overview
- Recently, Australia’s House of Representatives passed a bill aiming to ban children under the age of 16 from creating or maintaining accounts on social media platforms.
- The legislation now awaits approval from the Senate to become law.
- If enacted, this would be a world-first law, aiming to safeguard young users from the potential harms of social media platforms.
Key Provisions of the Bill
- Age Restriction:
- Platforms like TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram would be prohibited from allowing users under 16 years old to maintain accounts.
- Fines for Non-Compliance:
- Social media companies could face fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars (USD 33 million) for systemic failures to prevent children under 16 from using their platforms.
- Implementation Timeline:
- If passed by the Senate, platforms would have one year to implement measures to comply with the law.
- Privacy Safeguards:
- The platforms cannot require government-issued identity documents (e.g., passports, driver’s licenses) for age verification.
- They also cannot demand digital identification through government systems.
- Amendments:
- Additional privacy protections are expected to be added by the Senate, ensuring platforms safeguard user data while enforcing the age ban.
Debate and Support in the House of Representatives
- Vote Results:
- The bill was passed with 102 votes in favor and 13 against, indicating bipartisan support.
- Government’s Position:
- Communications Minister Michelle Rowland emphasized that the Senate would debate the legislation, which has broad support, ensuring its likely passage.
- Opposition’s Perspective:
- Opposition lawmaker Dan Tehan acknowledged the bill’s imperfections but argued it could still have a meaningful impact. He highlighted the importance of privacy safeguards and welcomed Senate amendments to address these concerns.
Criticism of the Bill
- Concerns About Privacy Risks:
- Critics argue that age-verification mechanisms could expose users of all ages to privacy risks, potentially leading to misuse of personal data.
- Parental Authority:
- The legislation could undermine parents’ rights to decide whether their children should access social media.
- Potential Harms:
- Opponents argue that:
- The bill could isolate children by depriving them of social interactions and the positive aspects of social media.
- It could push children to use the dark web or other unregulated platforms.
- It could make younger users hesitant to report harms they encounter online.
- Opponents argue that:
- Effectiveness:
- Critics, including Independent lawmaker Zoe Daniel, claim the law will not effectively address inherent harms associated with social media platforms.
- Platforms had requested a delay in voting until June 2025, pending the results of a government-commissioned study on age-assurance technologies. However, the government proceeded without this input.
- Symbolic Legislation:
- Daniel and others argue that the law is more about political optics than genuine effectiveness, suggesting the government aims to appear proactive rather than implement practical solutions.
Support for the Legislation
- Despite the criticism, the major political partieshave expressed strong support for the bill, ensuring its likely passage in the Senate.
- Supporters argue that while the bill is not perfect, it represents a step forward in addressing online harms, even if its practical implementation remains challenging.
Next Steps
- Senate Debate and Amendments:
- The Senate is expected to debate the bill and introduce amendments, especially related to privacy protections.
- Implementation Period:
- If passed into law, platforms will have 12 months to develop age-verification systems to comply with the ban, avoiding the use of sensitive identification documents.
Conclusion
The proposed legislation marks an ambitious attempt to regulate social media usage among children under 16, prioritizing online safety. However, it faces significant hurdles, including concerns about feasibility, privacy, and its broader impact. If passed, it will set a global precedent, but its practical implementation and effectiveness remain uncertain.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2 Consider the following statements regarding the social media legislation passed by Australia’s House of Representatives in November 2024:
1. The legislation bans children under the age of 16 from holding social media accounts. 2. Social media platforms must use government-issued identity documents to enforce the age restrictions. 3. Platforms found non-compliant could face fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? |
Q. Right to Privacy is protected as an intrinsic part of Right to Life and Personal Liberty. Which of the following in the Constitution of India correctly and appropriately imply the above statement? (2018)
(a) Article 14 and the provisions under the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution. Ans: (c) |
| Answer 2– B
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct: The bill prohibits children under 16 from maintaining social media accounts. · Statement 2 is incorrect: The legislation explicitly prohibits platforms from requiring government-issued identity documents for age verification. · Statement 3 is correct: Platforms that fail to comply could face fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars. · Therefore, option B is the correct answer. |
‘Seal of Authenticity’ to certify Jammu and Kashmir crafts for global market
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS2 Polity and Governance
Context: Kashmir’s Handicrafts Gain Global Recognition
Why in News
- The World Crafts Council (WCC) celebrated its 60th anniversary in Srinagar, focusing on elevating Kashmir’s renowned handicrafts
Key Highlights of the Event
- Seal of Authenticity for J&K Crafts
- The WCC introduced the “Seal of Authenticity of the Craft,” a certification aimed at ensuring the global recognition of Kashmir’s handmade crafts produced using traditional techniques.
- The initiative will begin with textiles and aims to enhance quality assurance and ownership of these crafts on the international stage.
- Srinagar as a ‘World Craft City’
- Srinagar, already recognized as a ‘World Craft City,’ is poised to become a hub of artisanal and cultural excellence. This recognition underscores the city’s historic craftsmanship and its role in preserving global cultural heritage.
- Planned Global Initiatives in Srinagar
- The WCC is exploring the establishment of a “World Craft Hub” and an International Crafts Museum in Srinagar with government support.
- These initiatives will attract international attention, foster cultural exchange, and secure sustainable revenue streams for artisans.
- Government Support and Vision
- J&K Lieutenant-Governor Manoj Sinha highlighted plans to integrate crafts into the tourism sector, making Jammu and Kashmir a prime cultural destination.
- The vision includes making “Made in Jammu and Kashmir” products household names globally while boosting local economic development.
- Participation from Global Artisans
- Artisans from 15 countries, including Iran and Central Asia, participated in the event, promoting cross-cultural learning, celebrating shared heritage, and revitalizing lost artisanal techniques.
Impact of the Initiatives
- Economic Growth:Certification and global branding will increase market value and demand for J&K crafts, supporting artisans’ livelihoods.
- Cultural Preservation:Efforts by the WCC and the government aim to protect and sustain traditional craftsmanship in Kashmir.
- Tourism Integration:Linking handicrafts with cultural tourism is expected to attract international visitors, further enhancing the local economy.
World Crafts Council (WCC)
- The World Crafts Council (WCC)is an international non-governmental organization dedicated to preserving, promoting, and empowering traditional crafts and artisans worldwide.
- Founded in 1964, the WCC operates under the aegis of UNESCO, with a mission to safeguard cultural heritage, support sustainable development, and foster global collaboration among artisans.
- It recognizes cities and regions known for their exceptional craftsmanship, such as Srinagar, recently designated as a ‘World Craft City.’
- The WCC’s initiatives include the establishment of craft hubs, certification programs like the “Seal of Authenticity,” and international events to celebrate and revive traditional techniques.
- Through these efforts, the WCC not only enhances the economic prospects of artisans but also strengthens the global appreciation of handmade crafts.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. Consider the following statements regarding the World Crafts Council’s (WCC) initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) as of November 2024:
1. The WCC introduced the “Seal of Authenticity” to certify handmade crafts produced in J&K using traditional methods. 2. Srinagar has been recognized as the 63rd World Craft City by the WCC. 3. The WCC plans to establish an International Crafts Museum and World Craft Hub in Jammu. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? |
Q. With reference to Chausath Yogini Temple situated near Morena, consider the following statements : 1. It is a circular temple built during the reign of Kachchhapaghata Dynasty. 2. It is the only circular temple built in India. 3. It was meant to promote the Vaishnava cult in the region. 4. Its design has given rise to a popular belief that it was the inspiration behind the Indian Parliament building. Which of the statements given above are correct?[A] 1 and 2 [B] 2 and 3 only [C] 1 and 4 [D] 2, 3 and 4 Answer: C |
| Answer 3– A
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct: The WCC announced the “Seal of Authenticity” to globally certify and recognize Kashmir’s traditional handmade crafts. · Statement 2 is correct: Srinagar has been recognized as the 63rd World Craft City by the WCC. · Statement 3 is incorrect: The WCC plans to establish the International Crafts Museum and World Craft Hub in Srinagar, not Jammu. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
National Milk Day: Verghese Kurien’s role in pioneering the white revolution
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Relevance: GS2 Polity and Governance
Context: Dr. Verghese Kurien and National Milk Day
Why in News: National Milk Day on November 26 celebrates the birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, known as the ‘Milkman of India’. Dr. Verghese Kurien: The ‘Milkman of India’
- Verghese Kurien, born on November 26, 1921, in Kozhikode, Kerala, is celebrated as the architect of India’s dairy revolution.
- His life and work had a profound impact on India’s milk production, making the country the largest milk producer in the world.
Early Life and Education
- Background: Dr. Kurien initially pursued physics in his undergraduate studies (1940) and later mechanical engineering (1943) with plans to join the Indian Army. However, a turning point came when he was awarded a Government of India scholarship to study dairy engineering, a field that would change the course of his life.
- Education: He trained at the Imperial Institute of Animal Husbandry (now the National Dairy Research Institute) in Bengaluru, and later completed a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in dairy engineering from Michigan State University in 1948.
The Turning Point: Joining Anand
- In May 1949, Kurien started his government-mandated service at an experimental creamery in Anand, Gujarat. Initially, he planned to leave after completing his bond period.
- It was during this time that Kurien met Tribhuvandas Patel, the Chairman of the Kaira District Cooperative Milk Producers Union, which was fighting against the exploitation of local dairy farmers by the Polson Dairy Company.
- Role in the Cooperative: Kurien became actively involved in the cooperative and took charge of overseeing the technical aspects of the operations. Over time, he became the General Manager, and his leadership transformed the cooperative into a robust and successful model for milk production in India.
The Birth of Amul
- Under Kurien’s leadership, the cooperative expanded its capacity to process and store dairy products. The model created a direct link between milk producers and consumers, bypassing middlemen and improving the income of dairy farmers.
- This cooperative model was named Amul (Anand Milk Union Limited), and its products soon became widely popular across India.
- The success of Amul was a game-changer in India’s dairy industry. Kurien’s focus was not just on the production of milk but also on ensuring equitable distribution and giving farmers more control over the dairy process.
- Recognition: In 1963, Kurien, along with Tribhuvandas Patel and Dara Khurody (who established the Aarey Milk Colony in Bombay), was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership.
Operation Flood and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB)
- Operation Flood (1970): Under Kurien’s leadership as the Chair of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), India launched Operation Flood, the largest dairy development program in the world. The initiative aimed to increase milk production, stabilize prices, and strengthen the dairy cooperative movement across the country.
- Impact: The program succeeded in tripling India’s milk production from 21.2 million tonnes in 1968-69 to over 55.6 million tonnes by 1991-92. It empowered farmers, reduced milk price fluctuations, and transformed India into the world’s largest milk producer.
Expansion and Legacy
- Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF): In 1973, Kurien helped establish the GCMMF, which manages the Amul brand, allowing it to become a leading player in India’s dairy market.
- Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA): In 1979, he founded IRMA to train rural managers and promote rural development, contributing further to the empowerment of rural India.
- Global Impact: Through his work, Dr. Kurien demonstrated how cooperative models could uplift rural economies, and his influence extended internationally, setting an example for other countries in the Global South.
Vision for India’s Dairy Industry
- Self-Reliance: Dr. Kurien’s vision was to make India self-reliant in milk production. He achieved this through the cooperative model, which brought together farmers, improved dairy processing, and developed a large market for locally produced milk and dairy products.
- Empowerment of Farmers: Kurien’s initiatives helped farmers gain control over production and marketing, ensuring that they received fair prices for their products and improving their quality of life.
Recognition and Final Legacy
- Dr. Kurien’s contributions were acknowledged through numerous awards and honors, including the Padma Vibhushan in 2013. He became a national symbol of self-reliance and rural empowerment.
- Kurien passed away in 2012, but his legacy lives on through Amul and the institutions he helped build, continuing to influence the dairy industry and rural development in India.
Conclusion
- Verghese Kurien, through his innovative leadership and unwavering commitment to improving the livelihoods of farmers, revolutionized the dairy sector in India.
- His legacy is not just in the milk that India produces but also in the empowerment of millions of farmers and the cooperative movement that continues to flourish.
- His efforts to make India self-reliant in milk production and his work through Amul have left an indelible mark on the country’s agricultural history.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q4. Consider the following statements regarding Dr. Verghese Kurien and his contributions to India’s dairy industry:
1. Dr. Verghese Kurien is known for his pivotal role in transforming India into the world’s largest milk producer. 2. The cooperative model developed by Kurien was initially successful under the brand name “Amul,” which helped farmers directly link with consumers. 3. Dr. Verghese Kurien led the launch of Operation Flood, which was aimed at promoting large-scale commercial dairy farms across the country. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only |
Q. The Preamble to the Constitution of India is (2020)
(a) a part of the Constitution but has no legal effect (b) not a part of the Constitution and has no legal effect either (c) a part of the Constitution and has the same legal effect as any other part (d) a part of the Constitution but has no legal effect independently of other parts Ans: (d)
|
| Answer 4- A
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct as Dr. Verghese Kurien played a crucial role in making India the world’s largest milk producer. · Statement 2 is correct because Amul, under Kurien’s leadership, was a model cooperative that enabled farmers to bypass middlemen and directly connect with consumers. · Statement 3 is incorrect because Operation Flood primarily focused on empowering dairy farmers through cooperative movements rather than promoting large-scale commercial farms. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Centre approves ₹1,115 crore to states for disaster mitigation, capacity-building projects
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2- Polity and Governance, GS 3- Disaster Management
Context: Disaster Mitigation and Capacity-Building Initiatives
Why in News
- A high-level committee, led by Union Home Minister has approved ₹1,000 crore for disaster mitigation and capacity-building projects across 15 states, aiming to enhance India’s disaster resilience.
Overview
- On November 26, 2024, a high-level committee, chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, approved funding for disaster mitigation and capacity-building projects in various states and Union Territories across India.
The committee’s decision reflects India’s commitment to improving disaster resilience and preparedness at the national and state levels.
Key Decisions and Approvals:
- Funding for Disaster Mitigation Projects:
- The committee approved ₹1,000 crore for disaster mitigation and capacity-building projects in 15 states.
- The focus of these projects includes measures to reduce the impact of natural disasters like landslides, floods, and other risks that particularly affect vulnerable regions.
- Training and Capacity Building of Civil Defence Volunteers:
- The committee also approved ₹115.67 crore for training and capacity-building programs aimed at enhancing the readiness and efficiency of civil defence volunteers across all states and Union Territories. These programs are crucial for improving local response mechanisms during disasters.
- State-specific Approvals: The funds are allocated to states based on their specific disaster risk profiles:
- Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh: ₹139 crore each for disaster mitigation, given their susceptibility to landslides and other natural calamities.
- Maharashtra: ₹100 crore to mitigate flood risks and other challenges.
- Karnataka and Kerala: ₹72 crore each, likely aimed at flood risk management, given the frequent monsoon flooding in these regions.
- Tamil Nadu and West Bengal: ₹50 crore each for strengthening disaster management systems.
- Northeastern States: ₹378 crore for eight Northeastern states—Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura—due to their vulnerability to floods, landslides, and earthquakes.
- National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF):
- The committee approved a proposal to address the risk of landslides in 15 states through the NDMF. This is a critical step in strengthening infrastructure and local resilience in disaster-prone regions.
- Urban Flood Risk Mitigation:
- The committee also approved Urban Flood Risk Mitigation Projects in seven cities with a total outlay of ₹3,075.65 crore. Urban flooding is a growing concern in India’s rapidly urbanizing cities, and this initiative aims to improve drainage systems and flood prevention measures.
- Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) Risk Management:
- A total of ₹150 crore was allocated for GLOF risk management in four states, which are vulnerable to floods caused by the bursting of glacial lakes, particularly in the Himalayan region.
Funding from National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) and Other Sources:
- National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF): The NDRF is designed to provide immediate relief in the aftermath of disasters. The committee approved funding for various preparedness and mitigation projects from the NDRF.
- State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF): Over ₹14,878.40 crore was released from the SDRF to 26 states to strengthen the response infrastructure, ensuring timely disaster relief.
- State Disaster Mitigation Fund (SDMF): ₹1,385.45 crore from the SDMF was provided to 11 states for long-term disaster mitigation efforts.
- National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF): ₹574.93 crore was allocated from the NDMF to six states, focusing on reducing the impact of natural disasters and strengthening disaster risk reduction efforts.
Vision for a Disaster-Resilient India:
- The approval of these funds and projects is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionof creating a disaster-resilient India. The government has prioritized disaster risk reduction by strengthening the response and preparedness systems at the national and state levels.
- These initiatives are intended to minimize loss of life and property during disasters, empower local communities, and enhance India’s ability to respond to and recover from natural calamities.
Significance of the Committee’s Decision:
- Holistic Approach to Disaster Risk Reduction:
- The committee’s decision to allocate significant funds to disaster mitigation projects, civil defense training, and urban flood management highlights a comprehensive approach to disaster management, focusing not only on immediate response but also on long-term preparedness and mitigation.
- State-Specific Focus:
- The allocation of funds takes into account the specific needs and vulnerabilities of each state, reflecting a nuanced understanding of regional risks. This regional approach will ensure that the most vulnerable areas receive the attention and resources needed for effective disaster risk management.
- Capacity Building:
- The focus on training civil defense volunteers across all states and Union Territories is critical. These volunteers play a vital role in disaster response at the local level, and equipping them with the necessary skills will enhance community-level disaster management and resilience.
- Encouraging Self-Reliance:
- By focusing on mitigation, the government is not only providing relief but also promoting self-reliance among states and local communities. The aim is to reduce dependency on external assistance and build sustainable disaster management systems at the grassroots level.
Conclusion:
- The approval of these disaster mitigation and capacity-building projects is a key step toward strengthening India’s disaster resilience framework.
- The government’s efforts are focused on ensuring that both infrastructure and human resources are adequately equipped to deal with natural disasters, reducing vulnerability, and enhancing recovery capabilities.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q5 Consider the following statements regarding the recent approval of funds for disaster mitigation and capacity-building projects:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only
|
Q. In the context of WHO Air Quality Guidelines, consider the following statements: (2022)
Which of the statements, given above are correct? a. 1, 3 and 4 only
Ans: b |
| Answer 5- A
Explanation · Statement 1 is correct as the NDMF was used for urban flood risk mitigation projects in seven cities. · Statement 2 is incorrect because the training of civil defence volunteers is under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), not the SDMF. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |