Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – Care (16-12-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| International Relations: India’s firmer attempts at mineral diplomacy |
| South Korea President Yoon Suk Yeol impeached over his martial law order |
| Environment and Ecology: Three promising outcomes from the world’s first official summit to conserve and restore mangroves |
| Economy: Govt Unveils ‘Jalvahak’ To Boost Inland Waterways |
| Polity and Governance: 1991 Places of Worship Act: What Supreme Court stopped, why |
| Geography: Where is La Niña? And why did global models err in their predictions? |
India’s firmer attempts at mineral diplomacy
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2 International Relations
Context: India’s Critical Mineral Diplomacy
Why in News
India is addressing its critical mineral dependency and strategic vulnerability by pursuing mineral diplomacy through international engagements, joint ventures, and strengthening domestic policies.
Overview
- Critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements are essential for manufacturing advanced technologies, including batteries, renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, and defense equipment.
- As India aspires to expand its manufacturing base and technological capabilities, ensuring a steady supply of these minerals is crucial to reduce dependence on imports and enhance strategic autonomy.
- India’s dependence on imports, especially from China, poses a strategic vulnerability.
- Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the issue of resource “weaponisation,” hinting at China’s monopolistic practices, which further underscores the need for India to secure its critical mineral supply chain.
Strategic Pillars of India’s Mineral Diplomacy
India’s approach is built on two primary pillars:
- Building International Engagements
This involves forging bilateral ties with resource-rich nations and forming strategic partnerships with key international organizations.
- Establishing Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL):
- KABIL is a joint venture between three Indian public sector undertakings: National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL), and Mineral Exploration Corporation Limited (MECL).
- The mandate of KABIL is to ensure consistent and secure access to critical minerals through agreements and acquisitions in resource-rich countries.
Notable Bilateral Engagements:
- Australia: In March 2022, India signed a critical mineral investment partnership with Australia, identifying two lithium and three cobalt projects.
- Argentina: India signed a $24 million lithium exploration pact in January 2024 for five lithium brine blocks.
- Central Asia: India’s joint venture with Kazakhstan, IREUK Titanium Limited, aims to produce titanium slag in India. This initiative aligns with India’s proposal to create an India-Central Asia Rare Earths Forum to harness Central Asia’s rich resources.
- Bolivia and Chile: KABIL has been facilitating mineral asset acquisitions in these countries. Additionally, Altmin Private Limited (Indian private sector) signed an agreement with Bolivia’s YLB to secure lithium raw materials for Li-ion batteries.
Exploring New Partnerships:
- Latin America’s Lithium Triangle: The triangle comprising Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile is a key focus area, as these countries are rich in lithium resources.
- United States and Russia: India has also been expanding collaborations with these resource-rich countries for securing other critical minerals like cobalt and rare earths.
International Cooperation
This pillar focuses on forging and strengthening partnerships with multilateral and minilateral organizations to align India with global best practices in the critical mineral supply chain.
- Engagements with Global Forums:
- India has partnered with the Quad (Australia, Japan, India, and the United States) and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) to enhance cooperation in critical minerals.
- India joined the Mineral Security Partnership (MSP) and G-7 discussions to align its policies with global trends and build resilient mineral supply chains.
- MoU with the International Energy Agency (IEA):
- India’s Ministry of Mines signed an MoU with the IEA to strengthen cooperation on critical minerals, streamlining India’s policies, regulations, and investment strategies to match international standards.
Key Challenges in India’s Mineral Diplomacy
While India’s mineral diplomacy efforts have made progress, several gaps remain, limiting their full potential.
- Limited Private Sector Participation
- The private sector’s involvement is critical for mineral exploration, production, and technology adoption.
- India lacks a clear supply chain strategy and road map for the private sector, leading to insufficient participation. This creates a reliance on public enterprises and limits the pace of progress.
- Weak Diplomatic Capacity
- India currently lacks a dedicated mineral diplomacy division within the Ministry of External Affairs. The absence of specialized diplomatic positions focusing on mineral security in Indian embassies and missions abroad hampers proactive engagement.
- Lack of Strategic, Sustainable Partnerships
- India’s partnerships with resource-rich nations often lack long-term sustainability and alignment with its strategic needs.
- Deeper collaboration with trusted partners such as the European Union, South Korea, and Quad members is needed to leverage their advanced technologies, expertise, and supply chain networks.
Recommendations for Strengthening India’s Mineral Security
To overcome these challenges and enhance mineral diplomacy, India needs a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach:
- Formulating a Comprehensive Critical Mineral Strategy
- Develop a critical mineral supply chain strategy that integrates private sector roles across upstream (exploration and mining), midstream (processing and refining), and downstream (manufacturing and distribution) activities.
- Prioritize de-risking the supply chain based on India’s growth needs and national security priorities.
- Strengthening Mineral Diplomacy
- Create a dedicated Mineral Diplomacy Division within the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to focus exclusively on international negotiations and partnerships related to critical minerals.
- Appoint specialized envoys or attachés for mineral diplomacy in key resource-rich nations and multilateral organizations.
- Fostering Sustainable and Trusted Partnerships
- Forge deeper collaborations with the EU, South Korea, and Quad members for access to advanced technologies, financial support, and capacity building.
- Enhance cooperation with multilateral initiatives like the Mineral Security Partnership (MSP) to ensure India’s integration into global supply chains.
- Increasing Domestic Capacity
- Promote research and development (R&D) in critical mineral technologies to reduce dependence on foreign technologies.
- Incentivize the private sector to invest in mineral exploration and refining capabilities through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).
- Aligning Domestic Initiatives with Global Standards
- Streamline India’s domestic policies, regulations, and investments to align with global best practices, ensuring efficiency and sustainability in the critical minerals sector.
Conclusion
India’s critical mineral diplomacy is essential for securing its ambitions of becoming a global manufacturing and technological hub. While significant steps have been taken, addressing the missing pieces — private sector participation, enhanced diplomatic capacity, and strategic partnerships — will be key to building a resilient and sustainable critical mineral supply chain. If these gaps are bridged, India can reduce its dependence on imports, minimize strategic vulnerabilities, and emerge as a global leader in the critical mineral ecosystem.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. India’s Lithium Triangle partnership focuses on which of the following countries?
1. Argentina 2. Chile 3. Bolivia 4. Brazil Select the correct answer using the code below: |
Q. Which one of the following statements best reflects the issue with Senkaku Islands, sometimes mentioned in the news? 2022
Ans: B |
| Answer – 1 – A
Explanation –
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South Korea President Yoon Suk Yeol impeached over his martial law order
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS2 International Relations, GS2- Polity and Governance
Context: impeachment of South Korean President
Why in News
The impeachment of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on December 14, 2024, marks a significant moment in South Korea’s democratic history.
Background to the Crisis
- Martial Law Decree: On December 3, 2024, President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law, citing the need to maintain order amidst legislative gridlock caused by the opposition Democratic Party. Martial law in South Korea allows for military governance during wartime or similar emergencies, but Yoon’s decree was widely viewed as unconstitutional because no such emergency existed.
- Deployment of Troops and Police: Yoon deployed troops and police to the National Assembly to obstruct parliamentary operations. This move was seen as an attempt to prevent lawmakers from voting on his martial law decree, violating the principle of legislative independence.
- Immediate Backlash: Parliament unanimously overturned the martial law decree after six hours, forcing Yoon to revoke it. The brief imposition of martial law caused political and economic instability, including halted diplomatic activities and financial market turbulence.
Impeachment Process
- First Attempt: An initial attempt to impeach Yoon failed as ruling People Power Party lawmakers boycotted the vote. However, growing public protests and plummeting approval ratings led some ruling party members to support the second impeachment motion.
- Second Impeachment Vote: On December 14, 2024, the National Assembly passed the impeachment motion with a decisive 204-85 vote. This vote was hailed as a victory for democracy by opposition leaders and activists.
Constitutional and Political Implications
- Suspension of Powers: Following the impeachment, Yoon’s presidential powers and duties were suspended. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, a seasoned bureaucrat with extensive government experience, assumed acting presidential responsibilities.
- Role of the Constitutional Court: South Korea’s Constitutional Court has 180 days to decide whether to uphold or dismiss Yoon’s impeachment. If upheld, Yoon will be permanently removed from office, triggering a national election within 60 days. If dismissed, his powers will be restored.
- Legal Consequences:
- While presidents in South Korea generally have immunity from criminal prosecution, this does not apply to charges of rebellion or treason.
- Yoon could face investigation and possible prosecution for his actions, including allegations of rebellion for deploying military forces against state institutions.
Allegations Against President Yoon
- Rebellion Charges: Critics, including opposition leaders and legal experts, argue that Yoon’s actions constituted rebellion by using state forces to undermine the constitution. This includes his alleged order to use troops to disrupt parliamentary proceedings.
- Unconstitutional Decree: South Korean law limits the declaration of martial law to wartime or similar emergencies. Yoon’s decree and subsequent suspension of parliament were viewed as blatant violations of democratic norms.
- Military Testimonies: Military commanders, including Kwak Jong-keun of the Army Special Warfare Command, testified that Yoon had ordered troops to forcibly remove lawmakers from the Assembly. These testimonies strengthened the impeachment case against him.
Public Response
- Protests for and Against Impeachment:
- Hundreds of thousands of South Koreans celebrated Yoon’s impeachment, seeing it as a defense of constitutional order and democracy.
- A significant number of pro-Yoon demonstrators also gathered in Seoul, but they grew subdued after the impeachment vote.
- Approval Ratings: Public support for impeachment was high, with surveys indicating over 70% approval. Yoon’s own approval rating had fallen to 11%, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction.
Actions by Acting President Han Duck-soo
- Maintaining Stability: Han ordered the military to remain vigilant against potential provocations from North Korea. He also instructed ministers to reassure foreign governments and minimize economic disruption during the political transition.
- Experienced Leadership: Han’s extensive background, including stints as trade and finance minister and ambassador to the U.S., positions him as a capable interim leader.
Broader Historical Context
- Previous Presidential Impeachments:
- Park Geun-hye (2016): Impeached and dismissed over a corruption scandal.
- Roh Moo-hyun (2004): Impeached for an election law violation, but reinstated by the Constitutional Court.
- Yoon’s impeachment is the third in South Korea’s history, reflecting the resilience of its democratic institutions in holding leaders accountable.
International Reactions
- U.S. Support: U.S. Ambassador Philip S. Goldberg emphasized the importance of the alliance between the two nations and expressed support for South Korea’s democratic process.
- Global Observations: The impeachment showcases South Korea’s commitment to constitutional order and its ability to navigate political crises through legal and institutional mechanisms.
Next Steps
- Constitutional Court Decision: The court’s ruling will determine Yoon’s political future. A dismissal would reinstate Yoon’s powers but likely leave his administration weakened.
- Potential Prosecution: If Yoon is permanently removed, he could face criminal charges, including rebellion or treason, for his martial law decree.
- Presidential Election: If the impeachment is upheld, South Korea will hold a national election to elect a new president within 60 days, marking a critical moment in the country’s political landscape.
Conclusion
The impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol highlights the strength of South Korea’s democratic institutions and public commitment to constitutional principles. While the political and legal consequences of the crisis are yet to fully unfold, the event underscores the importance of accountability and adherence to the rule of law in a democracy.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2 Consider the following statements regarding the impeachment of a President:
1. The Prime Minister assumes presidential powers temporarily after the President is impeached in South Korea. 2. In India, the President can be impeached for violation of the Constitution through a process outlined in Article 61 of the Constitution. 3. The Constitutional Court of South Korea must decide the President’s impeachment within 180 days. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
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Q. With reference to the election of the President of India, consider the following statements: (2018)
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 Ans: (a)
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| Answer 2– D
Explanation –
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Three promising outcomes from the world’s first official summit to conserve and restore mangroves
Source: DownToEarth
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Environment and Ecology
Context: Mangroves: Critical Ecosystems Under Threat
Why in News
Mangroves, vital for climate resilience and biodiversity, are threatened by human activities, prompting a global strategy for their conservation and restoration through the “Mangrove Breakthrough.”
Overview of the Booker Prize and Recent Winner
Mangroves, coastal forests growing in tropical and subtropical regions, are one of the most valuable yet threatened ecosystems on the planet. These ecosystems play a pivotal role in:
- Climate resilience: Mangroves absorb carbon from the atmosphere, serving as “blue carbon” sinks, crucial for climate change mitigation.
- Coastal protection: They act as buffers, reducing the impact of tropical storms, cyclones, and coastal erosion.
- Biodiversity: Mangroves are home to diverse flora and fauna, providing critical habitats for numerous species.
Despite their importance, over 1 million hectares of mangroves have been lost globally since 1996. An estimated 70% of this loss is restorable, but mature mangrove forests with vast carbon stores are irreplaceable. Protecting remaining mangroves and restoring degraded areas is crucial for ecological and socioeconomic benefits.
The Global Mangrove Breakthrough
In December, the world’s first international conference on mangrove conservation and restoration was held in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The event, organized by the Global Mangrove Alliance, brought together 400 delegates and 100 speakers from 82 countries to address the crisis facing mangroves.
The Mangrove Breakthrough Strategy
This global plan has three key goals:
- Prevent human-driven mangrove loss.
- Double the area under effective conservation status.
- Restore 50% of recently lost mangroves.
One of the critical tools showcased at the event was the Global Mangrove Watch, an online platform combining remote sensing data and global datasets to map mangroves, their carbon stores, and restoration potential. This tool empowers governments, communities, and stakeholders to make informed decisions for conservation efforts.
Refining Mangrove Restoration Strategies
- Mass planting efforts to restore mangroves often fail to create functional forests because they lack a comprehensive ecological approach.
- A seascape and landscape approach is required to connect mangroves with upstream rivers, seagrasses, and corals. This integrated method provides ecological and socioeconomic benefits.
Expert Opinions
Experts, such as Elena Roddom from Wetlands International, emphasize that nearly 50% of the world’s mangroves are at risk of collapse by 2050 due to human activities. Proven, community-led restoration methods are needed, rather than large-scale planting efforts that lack local engagement and ecological planning.
According to Jurgenne Primavera of the Zoological Society of London, successful restoration involves:
- Planting native species in suitable areas.
- Encouraging natural regeneration, which ensures faster growth and higher survival rates.
- Supporting long-term monitoring and adaptive management.
Community-Led Success Stories
Examples from countries like Indonesia, Kenya, Guinea Bissau, Mexico, and the United States demonstrate how community involvement is central to successful restoration.
In Kenya, for instance:
- Judith Okello, chair of the National Mangrove Management Committee, shared insights into the Lamu-Tana project, which uses Kenya’s Forest Conservation and Management Act (2016) to involve local communities in forest management.
- Local communities, as custodians of these natural resources, are empowered to contribute to national mangrove restoration plans through forest associations.
Benjamin Christ, alliance manager at the Global Mangrove Alliance, highlighted the Mangrove Breakthrough’s focus on creating a community of action. By uniting governments, funders, and local groups, the initiative aims to raise $4 billion to support restoration projects globally.
Financial Roadblocks and Solutions
Funding Challenges
Jennifer Howard from Conservation International identified mismatches in timelines and expectations between:
- Investors, who seek quick results and high returns within six months.
- Community-led projects, which require years to achieve tangible outcomes due to the time ecosystems need to regenerate.
Small-scale community projects often struggle to secure funding because they:
- Do not immediately produce large carbon offsets.
- Are perceived as high-risk by investors.
This creates a “bottleneck,” slowing the flow of finance to meaningful conservation efforts.
Bridging the Gap
To overcome these challenges, governments and stakeholders must:
- Align policy, finance, and action on the ground.
- Encourage long-term investments in mangrove conservation, recognizing that these projects take time to deliver results.
- Develop a roadmap for sustainable funding, including contributions from carbon markets, philanthropic initiatives, and public-private partnerships.
Future Prospects
Mangrove conservation and restoration are gaining global attention, but more work is needed to:
- Scale up proven restoration techniques that are ecologically sound and community-led.
- Ensure inclusive financing models to fund high-quality projects, even at smaller scales.
- Use advanced tools like the Global Mangrove Watch to plan interventions based on the best available data.
The Mangrove Breakthrough initiative could serve as a transformative global strategy to protect and restore mangroves, ensuring their critical role in climate resilience, biodiversity protection, and sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. Consider the following statements regarding mangrove conservation:
1. Mangroves are essential for coastal protection, climate resilience, and biodiversity. 2. The Mangrove Breakthrough aims to restore 50% of lost mangrove areas and double the area under effective conservation. 3. Community involvement is crucial for successful mangrove restoration, as evidenced by successful projects in Kenya, Indonesia, and Mexico. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 and 2 only |
Q. Which one of the following regions of India has a combination of mangrove forest, evergreen forest and deciduous forest? (2015)
(a) North Coastal Andhra Pradesh Ans: (d)
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| Answer 3– D
Explanation –
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Govt Unveils ‘Jalvahak’ To Boost Inland Waterways
Source: PIB
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2084560
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3- Economy
Context: ‘Jalvahak’ Policy and Inland Waterways Development
Why in News
The Jalvahak Scheme was launched by the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways to promote the movement of long haul cargo through National Waterways 1 (river Ganga), National Waterways 2 (river Brahmaputra), and National Waterways 16 (river Barak).
Overview
- The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, recently unveiled the ‘Jalvahak’ scheme, a major cargo promotion policy.
- This initiative focuses on incentivizing cargo movement via National Waterways 1 (NW1 – River Ganga), National Waterways 2 (NW2 – River Brahmaputra), and National Waterways 16 (NW16 – River Barak).
- The goal is to make inland waterways an economical, efficient, and environmentally friendly mode of cargo transportation.
Highlights of the Jalvahak Scheme
- Aim of the Scheme:
- Boost cargo movement via inland waterways to reduce dependence on railways and roadways.
- Reduce logistics costs and support the government’s vision of sustainable and efficient transportation.
- Encourage long-haul cargo transport (more than 300 km) via National Waterways.
- Incentives Under the Scheme:
- The scheme offers reimbursement of up to 35% of total operating expenditure for transporting cargo via NW1, NW2, and NW16 using the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route (IBPR).
- Encourages cargo owners to use vessels owned by private operators (not limited to IWAI or ICSL).
- Targeted beneficiaries include major shipping companies, freight forwarders, and trade associations handling bulk and containerized cargo.
- Validity: Initially launched for 3 years.
- Benefits of the Scheme:
- Provides a sustainable, cost-effective alternative for logistics.
- Reduces the congestion on roadways and railways.
- Promotes environmentally responsible cargo transportation.
Commencement of Fixed Day Scheduled Sailing Service
- Purpose: To demonstrate the readiness of national waterways for regular and time-bound cargo transportation.
- Routes Launched:
- NW1 (Ganga): Kolkata – Patna – Varanasi – Patna – Kolkata.
- NW2 (Brahmaputra): Kolkata to Pandu in Guwahati via the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route (IBPR).
Fixed Transit Time for Scheduled Routes:
- NW1 (Ganga):
- Kolkata to Patna: 7 days.
- Patna to Varanasi: 5 days.
- Kolkata to Varanasi: 14 days.
- NW2 (Brahmaputra):
- Kolkata to Pandu: 18 days.
- Pandu to Kolkata: 15 days.
First Batch of Cargo Ships Flagged Off:
- MV Trishul with barges Ajay and Dikhu: Carrying 1,500 tonnes of cement from Kolkata to Pandu (Guwahati).
- MV AAI: Carrying 1,000 tonnes of gypsum to Patna.
- MV Homi Bhaba: Transporting 200 tonnes of coal to Varanasi.
Key Outcomes Expected by 2027
- Modal Shift Target: 800 Million Tonne Kilometres of cargo to waterways.
- Investment: ₹95.4 crores.
- Growth of National Waterways: From 18.07 million tonnes in 2013-14 to 132.89 million tonnes in 2023-24 (700% increase).
- Future Cargo Targets:
- 200 million tonnes by 2030.
- 500 million tonnes by 2047.
Strategic Importance of Inland Waterways
- Extensive Network:
- India has 20,236 km of navigable waterways, with 17,980 km comprising rivers and 2,256 km canals.
- Despite this, waterways are under-utilized for freight transportation compared to other countries like the USA, China, and EU nations.
- Economical and Sustainable:
- Waterways offer a cost advantage over road and rail transport.
- They are an ecologically sound alternative, reducing emissions and environmental impact.
- Government Initiatives for Development:
- Massive investments since 2014 to rejuvenate waterways.
- Strengthening blue economy potential, which was previously neglected.
Economic and Regional Impact
- Revitalizing eastern waterways (Ganga and Brahmaputra) will boost economic activity in regions like Bengal and Assam.
- Reduces dependence on traditional modes of transport, unlocking new opportunities for communities along waterways.
- Enables cost-effective cargo movement for industries like cement, gypsum, coal, and other bulk goods.
Challenges and the Way Forward
- Challenges:
- Infrastructure development is still a work in progress, especially in remote areas.
- Coordination with Bangladesh for the IBPR requires continued diplomatic and logistical efforts.
- Limited awareness and participation among private stakeholders.
- Way Forward:
- Continuous investment in waterway infrastructure, such as modern ports, terminals, and navigation aids.
- Expansion of schemes like Jalvahak to other national waterways.
- Increasing awareness and providing logistical support to encourage private operators.
Conclusion
- The Jalvahak scheme and the accompanying initiatives represent a significant leap in unlocking India’s inland waterways potential.
- By promoting eco-friendly, cost-efficient, and time-bound cargo transportation, the scheme aligns with the government’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and its broader goals for the blue economy.
- With sustained efforts, waterways can emerge as a critical mode of transport, reducing congestion on roads and rails while fostering economic growth.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q4. Which of the following statements about the ‘Jalvahak’ scheme launched by the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways is/are correct?
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: a) Only One |
Q. With reference to ‘National Investment and Infrastructure Fund’, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2017)
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only Ans: (d)
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| Answer 4- C
Explanation
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1991 Places of Worship Act: What Supreme Court stopped, why
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Relevance: GS2 Polity and Governance
Context: Places of Worship Act, 1991
Why in News
The Supreme Court has barred civil courts from registering new suits and ordering surveys related to the ownership of places of worship, while also temporarily halting proceedings in existing cases, in relation to the Places of Worship Act, 1991.
Overview of the African Elephant Population Crisis
- The Supreme Court’s order on December 12, 2024, bars civil courts from registering new suits that challenge the ownership or title of any place of worship and from ordering surveys of disputed religious places until further notice.
- This decision arises from petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Places of Worship Act, 1991, and is significant in the context of ongoing legal disputes concerning the religious character of certain places of worship in India, including mosques and temples.
Background of the Places of Worship Act, 1991
The Places of Worship Act, 1991 was enacted after the Babri Masjid demolition and the subsequent Ayodhya movement. The Act has two main provisions:
- Preservation of the Religious Character: The Act prohibits the conversion of any place of worship and mandates that the religious character of such places remain as it was on August 15, 1947.
- Exceptions for the Babri Masjid: The law specifically excludes the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute from its scope, as the case was already in court when the law was enacted.
The law aims to maintain the status quo in religious places and prevent further communal conflict by freezing the status of religious structures at the time of India’s independence.
Recent Legal Developments and the Court’s Order
- Several civil suits, particularly in the context of mosque sites such as the Gyanvapi mosque, have sought to challenge the title of mosques, claiming that these structures were built on Hindu temples that were destroyed during medieval times.
- These cases have often led to requests for surveys, including archaeological surveys by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), to examine the historical and architectural nature of these sites.
- On December 12, 2024, the Supreme Court of India, while hearing petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Places of Worship Act, 1991, issued a directive that prevents the registration of new civil suits regarding the ownership or title of religious places and bars courts from ordering surveys or passing interim or final orders in pending suits.
Key Points of the Supreme Court’s Decision
- No Fresh Suits: The Court has temporarily barred civil courts from registering any new lawsuits that challenge the ownership of religious places or their status as per the law.
- Prohibition on Surveys: The order also prevents courts from ordering surveys, including archaeological surveys, which have been requested in cases involving disputes over mosque sites.
- Pending Suits: For pending cases, the courts are prohibited from passing any effective interim or final orders, including those ordering surveys, until further orders are passed by the Court.
- Protection of Secularism: The Supreme Court noted that the outcome of these cases could be contested based on constitutional principles of secularism and the rule of law, suggesting that the Court is prioritizing these values over individual cases that might disrupt the status quo.
Challenge to the Places of Worship Act, 1991
The challenge to the Act has been ongoing since 2020, with petitioners arguing that the law:
- Removes Judicial Review: The Act effectively prevents judicial scrutiny of the ownership claims of religious places by freezing the religious status as it was in 1947.
- Arbitrary Cut-off Date: Petitioners claim that choosing August 15, 1947, as the cut-off date for determining the religious character of a place is arbitrary, as it does not account for the complex and varied history of religious structures in India.
The law has been critiqued for not allowing claims to be made regarding the religious character of places of worship, except in the case of the Babri Masjid, and for undermining the power of judicial review.
Implications of the Supreme Court’s Order
- Legal Limbo: The Supreme Court’s decision to bar new cases and halt proceedings in pending ones places ongoing and future challenges to places of worship in a legal limbo. The Court is effectively pausing such litigation until a larger constitutional review is conducted.
- Impact on Community-Led Movements: As surveys of religious sites can no longer be ordered, this decision will likely delay or prevent the efforts of those seeking to alter the status quo of disputed religious structures. This is a significant development in several high-profile cases like the Gyanvapi mosque.
- Delaying Resolution: The Supreme Court’s ruling ensures that there will be no immediate changes or disruptions to the existing religious character of disputed sites until the constitutionality of the Places of Worship Act is resolved. This will likely continue to shape the public discourse on communal harmony and religious freedom in India.
Future Steps
- The Court will eventually hear the constitutional challenge to the Places of Worship Act, which remains pending. The decision could significantly impact the law’s future and shape the broader debate on secularism, religious freedom, and judicial review in India.
- The Supreme Court’s observations in this case will guide the government’s defense of the law, and it remains to be seen whether the Centre will support or challenge the law’s constitutionality.
- The 1991 Act has become an important point of contention, and the upcoming judgment will have far-reaching implications for religious and legal policies in India.
| CARE MCQ | |
| Q5. With reference to the recent Supreme Court ruling on the Places of Worship Act, 1991, consider the following statements:
1. The ruling bars civil courts from registering new suits concerning the ownership or religious character of places of worship. 2. It allows civil courts to conduct surveys and issue orders on pending cases related to disputed religious sites. 3. The decision was made in the context of a constitutional challenge to the Places of Worship Act, 1991. Which of the above statements are correct? A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. Consider the following statements: (2020)
1. The Constitution of India defines its ‘basic structure’ in terms of federalism, secularism, fundamental rights and democracy. 2. The Constitution of India provides for ‘judicial review’ to safeguard the citizens’ liberties and to preserve the ideals on which the Constitution is based. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only Ans: (d)
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| Answer 5- B
Explanation
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Where is La Niña? And why did global models err in their predictions?
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Relevance: GS1 Geography
Context: La Nina
Why in News
La Niña, a climate phenomenon characterized by cooler sea temperatures in the Pacific, failed to emerge in 2024 as predicted, contributing to a neutral ENSO phase and affecting global weather patterns.
What is La Niña?
- La Niña is a phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), a complex climate phenomenon that affects global weather patterns.
- It is characterized by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, accompanied by specific atmospheric changes.
- La Niña is the opposite of El Niño, which causes warmer-than-average sea temperatures in the same region.
ENSO Phases:
- El Niño (Warm Phase): Characterized by weaker trade winds and warmer ocean temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific. This disrupts weather patterns, often leading to droughts in some regions and excess rainfall in others.
- La Niña (Cool Phase): Occurs when the trade winds strengthen, pushing warm water towards the western Pacific, and causing the eastern Pacific to cool. This phase is typically associated with increased rainfall and cooler temperatures in certain areas.
- Neutral Phase: Sea surface temperatures are close to average in the Pacific, with no significant shift towards either El Niño or La Niña conditions.
ENSO and India:
- El Niño is often linked to decreased rainfall and higher temperatures in India, which can cause droughts.
- La Niña, on the other hand, tends to bring increased rainfall, often leading to cooler temperatures and a more active monsoon.
Ocean Conditions and ENSO Neutrality:
- As of December 2024, the sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific Ocean remained near-average, signaling ENSO-neutral conditions. The Oceanic Niño Index (ONI), a key indicator of ENSO phases, had not reached the threshold necessary to declare a La Niña, remaining at minus 0.3°C. Despite early predictions in 2024 suggesting that La Niña would form, the ocean’s temperature remained relatively stable, which is why forecasts missed the expected shift to La Niña.
Initial Predictions and Shifting Forecasts:
- Weather models based on ocean conditions initially predicted a La Niña phase would develop in mid-2024, then adjusted those predictions to suggest it might occur between October-December. However, the weak La Niña predicted to emerge in late 2024 has been forecasted to have minimal impact, transitioning back to ENSO-neutral conditions by March-May 2025.
Why Did La Niña Predictions Fail in 2024?
Several factors contributed to the failure of predictions:
- Ocean-Atmosphere Interaction: The interaction between ocean temperatures and atmospheric conditions did not follow expected patterns. Normally, a strong El Niño would dissipate by the end of the year, allowing La Niña to take over. However, El Niño’s lingering impact into 2024 kept the Pacific warmer, suppressing La Niña’s emergence.
- Westerly Wind Anomalies: During September-October, westerly winds became more dominant, which are not conducive to the development of La Niña. These winds can disrupt the cooling process in the eastern Pacific, preventing the development of La Niña.
- Monsoon Influence: The Indian Summer Monsoon, which experienced above-normal rainfall in 2024, interacts with ENSO phases. A robust monsoon can influence atmospheric winds (like the westerly anomalies), affecting the timing and strength of ENSO events. In this case, the good monsoon in India could have played a role in delaying La Niña’s onset.
Conclusion:
- The year 2024’s failure to produce a La Niña, despite early forecasts, highlights the complexities of ENSO dynamics. The interaction of ocean temperatures, wind patterns, and the monsoon has led to neutral conditions, meaning La Niña will likely be brief and weak.
- This underlines the difficulty in predicting ENSO phases accurately, especially when the ocean-atmosphere coupling doesn’t behave as expected.
- As a result, 2024 may still become one of the warmest years on record, largely influenced by lingering El Niño conditions and the absence of a typical La Niña phase.
| CARE MCQ | |
| Q6. Consider the following statements regarding the La Niña phenomenon:
1. La Niña is a phase of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) characterized by cooler sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. 2. La Niña is associated with increased rainfall and lower temperatures in India. 3. The El Niño phase, unlike La Niña, is associated with increased rainfall and cooler temperatures in India. 4. La Niña typically occurs in cycles of two to seven years, with its effects felt more strongly than the El Niño phase. Which of the above statements are correct? A) 1, 2, and 4 only |
Q. La Nina is suspected to have caused recent floods in Australia. How is La Nina different from El Nino? (2011)
1. La Nina is characterised by an usually cold ocean temperature in equatorial Indian Ocean whereas El Nino is characterised by unusually warm ocean temperature in the equatorial Pacific Ocean. 2. El Nino has adverse effect on south-west monsoon of India but La Nina has no effect on monsoon climate. 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 Ans: (d)
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| Answer 6- B
Explanation
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