Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – CARE (17-09-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Environment and Ecology: Project Cheetah audit flags concerns |
| Agriculture: Centre to invest Rs 6,000 crore in smart farming with AI, drones, and data to boost crop yields |
| International Relations: Turkey’s bid to join BRICS speed up EU accession |
| India and Russia-Ukraine peace |
| Polity and Governance: Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) Portal |
Project Cheetah audit flags concerns
Source: Indian Express
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/project-cheetah-audit-flags-unjustified-expenses-9571704/
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3 –Environment and Ecology
Context: Project Cheetah
Why in News
- A report by the Accountant General of Madhya Pradesh has flagged concerns over the management of Project Cheetah at Kuno National Park (KNP).
Overview
- The recent audit report by the Accountant General of Madhya Pradesh has flagged several concerns regarding the management of Project Cheetah at Kuno National Park (KNP).
- The audit, which examined records from August 2019 to November 2023, has highlighted issues surrounding coordination between central and state government departments, expenditure irregularities, and deviation from management plans.
Key Findings from the Audit:
- Lack of Coordination:
- The audit pointed out that there was insufficient coordination between the Government of India and the Government of Madhya Pradesh regarding Project Cheetah’s implementation.
- Ground staff and the Forest Division were reportedly excluded from critical decisions, including site selection and the cheetah reintroduction study.
- Absence of Cheetah Reintroduction in Plans:
- The audit noted that the reintroduction of cheetahs was not part of the original work plan or management plan for Kuno National Park.
- Kuno was originally intended as an alternate habitat for Asiatic lions, following a 2013 Supreme Court decision.
- The report raised concerns over the shift in focus to cheetahs without a specific management plan addressing this new goal.
- The Cheetah Action Plan 2021, prepared by the central government, was guiding the project, but no corresponding state-level documentation was found.
- Financial Irregularities:
- The report flagged unjustified expenditures of over ₹90 lakh, particularly concerning labour costs.
- The use of JCB machines for tasks such as brushwood removal and trench deepening, instead of manual labour, led to a loss of employment for local residents, while payments were made as though labour had been used.
- The construction of a 5.9-km wall had discrepancies, including the underutilization of cement (67 fewer bags than required) and excess payments amounting to ₹4.14 lakh.
- Additionally, the failure to deduct royalty for materials used in the construction resulted in a loss of revenue.
- Project Cheetah Expenditure:
- The total expenditure on Project Cheetah from 2021 to January 2024 was ₹44.14 crore.
- The report flagged this as not being in accordance with the approved management plan.
- No Progress on Asiatic Lion Reintroduction:
- Despite the original objective of developing Kuno as an alternative habitat for Asiatic lions, no steps had been taken to reintroduce them by November 2023, even though this was mandated by the Supreme Court.
- Training Ineffectiveness:
- The report criticized the transfer of Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Prakash Kumar after he received specialized training from Namibia on cheetah management.
- His transfer hindered the application of his training to the project, rendering the training ineffective.
Official Responses:
- Senior officials at Kuno National Park have clarified that this is not a final audit report and that the raised questions will be addressed in the coming months.
- They emphasized that these concerns should not be seen as final conclusions but rather as points to be resolved during the ongoing audit.
Kuno National Park
- Kuno National Park which is located in Madhya Pradesh’s Sheopur district is home to several cheetahs translocated from Namibia and South Africa.
- Project Cheetah in India formally commenced on September 17, 2022, to restore the population of cheetahs, which were declared extinct in the country in 1952.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q1. The recent audit report by the Accountant General of Madhya Pradesh raised concerns over the management of Project Cheetah at Kuno National Park (KNP). Which of the following statements is/are correct about the findings of the audit report?
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
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Q. Recently there was a proposal to translocate some of the lions from their natural habitat in Gujarat to which one of the following sites? (2019)
a) Corbett National Park Ans: b |
| Answer 1- B
Explanation:
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Centre to invest Rs 6,000 crore in smart farming with AI, drones, and data to boost crop yields
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Relevance: GS 3- Agriculture
Context: Smart technology
Why in News
- The Centre is contemplating to earmark Rs 6,000 crore to promote precision farming, a modern approach that uses smart technology.
Overview
- The Centre is planning to allocate ₹6,000 crore to promote precision farming in India, a modern agricultural technique that leverages advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), drones, and data analytics.
- Precision farming aims to maximize productivity by utilizing resources more efficiently while minimizing environmental impacts.
- This initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to modernize agriculture and improve farming practices.
Key Points:
- Smart Precision Horticulture Programme:
- The Union Ministry of Agriculture is developing a Smart Precision Horticulture Programme under the existing Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH).
- This programme aims to cover 15,000 acres of land between 2024-25 and 2028-29, benefiting approximately 60,000 farmers.
- Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF):
- Launched during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) provides financial support for infrastructure projects related to smart and precision agriculture.
- Under this fund, individual farmers and community-based organizations such as Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), and Self Help Groups (SHGs) are eligible for loans with an interest subvention of 3% for adopting technological solutions.
- Eligible technologies include farm/harvest automation, drones, specialized sensors, blockchain, AI, remote sensing, and IoT.
- International Collaborations:
- The Indian government is considering collaboration with countries like the Netherlands and Israel, which are known for their tech-based farming solutions.
- Centres of Excellence (CoEs) will be established, and the number of CoEs is expected to reach 100 in the next five years. Currently, under the Indo-Israel Agriculture Project, 32 CoEs have already been established across 14 states.
- Precision Farming Development Centres (PFDCs):
- The Centre has set up 22 Precision Farming Development Centres (PFDCs) across India to test and adapt new technologies based on local agricultural conditions.
- These PFDCs are located in agricultural universities, ICAR Institutes, and IITs in states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, and others.
- Use of AI and Machine Learning:
- Funds are being released to states and Union Territories (UTs) for projects involving AI and machine learning under schemes like the National e-Governance Plan in Agriculture.
- These projects are designed to improve decision-making and farm management practices by leveraging technology.
Precision farming
- Precision farming, also known as precision agriculture, is an advanced agricultural approach that uses modern technology to enhance the efficiency and productivity of farming practices.
- It focuses on maximizing the use of resources and minimizing environmental impact by applying data-driven insights and innovative technologies.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q2. The Government of India is contemplating several initiatives to promote precision farming. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding these initiatives?
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. Consider the following statements: (2017)
The nation-wide ‘Soil Health Card Scheme’ aims at
Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (b) |
| Answer 2– A
Explanation:
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Will Turkey’s bid to join BRICS speed up EU accession?
Source: Indian Express
https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/turkey-brics-eu-accession-9569493/
UPSC Relevance: GS2 International Relations
Context: Turkey’s bid to join BRICS
Why in News
- Turkey’s bid to join BRICS reflects its frustration with the stalled EU accession process and seeks to leverage its position on the global stage.
Turkey’s Bid for BRICS Membership
- Application and Intent: Turkey has formally applied to join BRICS, a group initially composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The application is currently pending.
- EU Relations: Turkey’s interest in BRICS may be a response to the slow progress in its EU accession talks. The EU expects candidate countries to adhere to its values and policies, and Turkey’s alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy has significantly decreased.
- Strategic Motives: Turkey’s potential BRICS membership could be seen as a strategic move to gain leverage or attract Western attention. It also highlights Turkey’s desire for economic and political diversification.
- Current BRICS Expansion: BRICS has expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE, with nearly 20 other countries, including Turkey, expressing interest.
- Western Reactions: Turkey’s actions, such as its purchase of Russian military equipment and support for certain international groups, have strained its relations with Western allies. Joining BRICS might exacerbate these tensions but could also serve as a counterbalance to the EU’s influence.
- Impact on Turkey’s EU Accession: The shift towards BRICS could either revive interest in Turkey’s EU accession by showing its strategic significance or further diminish its chances as Western nations might view Turkey’s alignment with BRICS skeptically.
BRICS
- BRICS is an acronym for the grouping of the world’s leading emerging economies, namely Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.
- The BRICS Leaders’ Summit is convened annually.
- The 15th BRICS Summit was hosted by South Africa in 2023, and Russia will host the 16th Brics summit in October 2024.
Formation of BRICS:
- The grouping was first informally formed during a meeting of the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, and China (BRIC) on the sidelines of the G8 (now G7) Outreach Summit in St.Petersburg, Russia, in 2006, this was later formalised during the 1st BRIC Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New York in 2006.
- In 2009, the inaugural BRIC summit took place in Yekaterinburg, Russia. The following year (2010), South Africa joined to form the group known as BRICS.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q3. Consider the following statements regarding Turkey’s bid to join BRICS and its implications?
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: A) 1 and 3 only |
Q. Consider the following statements: (2016)
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: (b) |
| Answer 3 A
Explanation
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India and Russia-Ukraine peace
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2 International Relations
Context: India Russia Relations
Why in News
- EAM S. Jaishankar’s “four-point principle” for the Russia-Ukraine conflict emphasizes dialogue, sovereignty, international law, and humanitarian considerations, prompting questions about India’s potential peacemaker role.
Overview
- The visit of India’s National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval to Russia had significant outcomes with both bilateral and broader geopolitical implications, especially considering the BRICS meetings and the ongoing India-China military tensions.
BRICS National Security Advisors (NSAs) Meeting:
- Ajit Doval attended the BRICS NSAs meeting, where discussions revolved around security and cooperation among BRICS nations.
- This meeting is significant as it sets the stage for the upcoming BRICS summit in October 2023, which will bring together key global leaders, including India’s PM Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and leaders from newly expanded BRICS members like UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.
India-China Relations:
- A major focus was Doval’s meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Both sides agreed to accelerate efforts to resolve the ongoing military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), where tensions have persisted since 2020.
- Their decision to “redouble efforts” indicates a desire for progress ahead of a potential Modi-Xi meeting at the BRICS summit.
- While External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar mentioned that 75% of disengagement has been completed, it suggests that India aims to reduce hostilities, but not necessarily return to pre-2020 LAC conditions.
India-Russia Relations:
- Doval’s rare meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where he conveyed messages from PM Modi, indicates India’s desire to play a mediatory role, especially concerning the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
- Doval’s meeting with Putin underscores India’s continued diplomatic engagement with Russia despite Western pressure to take a firm stance against the invasion of Ukraine.
India’s Potential Role in Peace Mediation
- If India is serious about playing a mediatory role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, it will require significant diplomatic effort, goodwill, and patience.
- Historically, India has maintained relations with both Russia and Ukraine, but actual mediation would involve taking more substantial diplomatic steps.
- Other countries like Türkiye, Indonesia, and Hungary have already been engaging both sides of the conflict since the 2022 Russian invasion.
- There are multiple peace proposals on the table, including those from Ukraine, Russia, and countries like Brazil and China.
The Challenges of Mediation
Complexities of the Conflict
- Evolving as mediator in the crisis between Russia and Ukraine is quite risky.
- The problem is rooted far back in history, and as such, has political, cultural, and even social implications that makes resolution a tall order.
- Protracted military activities with fending counteroffenses by Ukraine and missile attacks by Russia pose problems that make the negotiations fragile.
- Both are rather polarized since Ukraine fights for the territorial integrity of the country and Russia wants others to acknowledge the annexation of Crimea and the Donbas region.
- Moreover, external players such as NATO and the European Union raise some complication to the conflict.
- Western countries continue to give their military and financial assistance to Ukraine and, in response, Russia has stepped up its military posturing. Adding to this geopolitical reality of the region is the fact that India, while being a potential mediator for the dispute, has to balance the interests of the aforementioned parties.
Unrealistic Expectations
- India may be politically overburdened to act as the middlemen between Russia and Ukraine. While India has declared its availability to mediate talk, it is apparent that lots of good will, time and patience will be needed for any tangible achievement to be made.
- There is a hope among the international community, especially the western countries that India can use the influence it has with Russia to provide some breakthrough in the existing negotiations.
- However, it can be observed that previous attempts of India to convey messages between Russia and Ukraine have not resulted in significant outcomes hence the effectiveness of mediating comes under the lens.
- Furthermore, pressures calling for immediate cease-fire may disguise the fact that this war is rooted in bitter pre-modern ethnic enmity.
- The nature of the conflict entails first and foremost understanding of the goals and dreams of each side and these goals may different greatly from what outside observers may desire for them.
- Geopolitical Implications and India’s Global Ambitions: As an emerging power, India positions itself as a mediator in global conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war. Its Cold War-era diplomacy allows India to maintain relations with both Russia and the West, but navigating these ties is increasingly difficult, especially given the ongoing U.S.-Russia tensions.
Implications for India’s Global Role
- India’s involvement in this complex global scenario places it at a critical juncture where it can potentially elevate its global standing as a peacemaker.
- However, India must remain cautious of overextending itself or creating unrealistic expectations.
- PM Modi’s upcoming international engagements, including meetings with the U.S. and Russia, will carry significant responsibilities for shaping India’s role in international diplomacy.
Geopolitical Implications
- India faces a diplomatic challenge in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
- On one side, it must protect its ties with Russia, while on the other, its growing partnership with the U.S. calls for a more assertive stance against Russian aggression.
- Balancing these interests complicates India’s broader global strategy.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q4. Consider the following statements regarding India’s position on the Russia-Ukraine conflict:
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 only |
Q. Recently, India signed a deal known as ‘Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field’ with which of the following countries? (2019)
(a) Japan Ans: B |
| Answer 4 A
Explanation
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Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) Portal
Source: PIB
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2055427
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2- E- Governance
Context: Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR)
Why in news
- The Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) is a new digital platform launched by the Union Minister of Commerce & Industry under the Startup India program.
Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR)
- The Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) is a new digital platform launched by the Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, under the Startup India program.
- The platform aims to unify and empower India’s growing startup ecosystem by providing a central hub for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation.
Purpose:
- BHASKAR, which means “Rising Sun,” symbolizes growth, enlightenment, and innovation. The platform is designed to connect entrepreneurs, dreamers, doers, and disruptors, helping them collaborate, compete, and succeed.
- The main objective is to bring the entire startup ecosystem under one roof, ensuring that resources and opportunities are accessible to all stakeholders, including startups, investors, mentors, service providers, and government bodies.
Goals:
- Promote collaboration and cooperation among startups across sectors and regions.
- Democratize access to knowledge and resources, especially for startups from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
- Enhance India’s image as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Key Features:
- Industry Alliances: Facilitates cross-sector collaboration by bringing together stakeholders from different industries, technologies, and regions.
- Dynamic Networking: Offers personalized dashboards and peer-to-peer connect features to help startups and stakeholders easily network and find opportunities.
- Enhanced Visibility: Startups can create profile cards to make themselves visible to the broader ecosystem, making it easier to be discovered by potential collaborators or investors.
- Personalized Identification Number: BHASKAR provides a unique BHASKAR ID tied to each user’s profile, enabling access to various services and acting as a digital identity in the startup ecosystem.
Significance:
- With over 1.4 lakh DPIIT-recognized startups, India’s startup ecosystem is one of the largest globally. BHASKAR aims to address the issue of fragmented resources by creating a unified platform that brings together all ecosystem stakeholders.
- The platform will help startups in smaller cities access the same resources and opportunities as those in larger cities, fostering inclusive growth and innovation.
Future Vision:
- BHASKAR is expected to become the largest digital registry of startups globally.
- The platform will continuously evolve, and future versions (like BHASKAR 2.0) will include enhanced features and technology to further support the growth of India’s startup ecosystem.
Government’s Vision:
- Empowering Startups: Shri Piyush Goyal emphasized that the platform will help make the startup ecosystem more independent, globally competitive, and focused on quality and integrity.
- Encouraging Entrepreneurship: The government wants to encourage Indians to become job creators and view failures as stepping stones to success. The platform is a step towards helping big ideas materialize and contribute to India’s growth story.
- NSAC Involvement: There are plans to set up a Section 8 company to bring the National Startup Advisory Council (NSAC) under the new startup company’s ambit. Shares could also be distributed to unicorns as a way to encourage and empower entrepreneurs.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q 5. Which of the following statements correctly describe the Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) initiative?
Which of the statements given above are correct? A) 1 and 2 only |
Q. With reference to the government’s welfare schemes, consider the following statements. (2002)
1. Under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana, the food grains are available to the poorest of the families at 2 per kg for wheat and 3 per kg for rice. Under the National Old Age Pension Scheme, the 2. old and destitute are provided 75 per month as central pension, in addition to the amount provided by most State Government 3. Government of India has allocated 25 kg food grain per below poverty line family per month, at less than half the economic cost. Which of these statements are correct? (a) 1 and 2 (b) 1 and 3 (c) 2 and 3 (d) 1,2 and 3 Ans. (d) |
| Answer 5 B
Explanation
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