Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – CARE (28-10-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Science and Technology: ISRO-DBT ink deal to conduct biotechnology experiments in space station |
| Environment and Ecology: 2024 Global Nature Conservation Index |
| Polity and Governance: Government seeks to relaunch National Manuscript Mission, set up autonomous body |
| Economy: Livestock census begins, one lakh veterinary staff on job |
| International Relations: BRICS bloc endorses India’s stance on EU’s carbon tax; pushes for local currency settlements |
| Pashtun Tahafuz Movement: Dissent in the mountains |
ISRO-DBT ink deal to conduct biotechnology experiments in space station
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS3- Science and Technology
Context: Biotechnology and Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS)
Why in News
- The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) have inked an agreement to design and conduct experiments, which will then be integrated into the forthcoming Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).
Currency Swap Agreement
- The recent agreement between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) marks a significant step toward advancing India’s space research capabilities, particularly in the context of the upcoming Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).
- This collaboration is poised to integrate innovative biological experiments into India’s first indigenous space station, which is slated to be developed between 2028 and 2035.
Key Components of the Collaboration
- Experiments for BAS:
- The ISRO-DBT collaboration aims to explore various biological and biochemical processes that occur in space, focusing on the unique challenges of a microgravity environment. The planned experiments include:
- Muscle Loss: Research on how weightlessness affects muscle degradation in astronauts, which is crucial for long-duration missions.
- Algae as Nutrients: Investigating different types of algae for their potential as nutrient sources and their role in food preservation during space missions.
- Algae for Fuel: Exploring the processing of certain algae to produce jet fuel, which could support sustainable space travel.
- Radiation Impact: Studying the effects of cosmic radiation on astronaut health, which is vital for mission safety and success.
- The ISRO-DBT collaboration aims to explore various biological and biochemical processes that occur in space, focusing on the unique challenges of a microgravity environment. The planned experiments include:
- Timeline and Future Missions:
- Before the BAS becomes operational, ISRO’s immediate focus is on the Gaganyaan mission, India’s first crewed spaceflight, expected to launch between 2025 and 2026.
- This mission will include three uncrewed test flights, during which selected experiments from the ISRO-DBT collaboration may be conducted. These preliminary tests will inform future experiments aboard the BAS.
- Context of Global Space Endeavors:
- The development of the BAS occurs alongside the expected decommissioning of the International Space Station (ISS) by 2030. Countries like China are actively expanding their own space stations, emphasizing the need for India to establish its independent capabilities in space research.
- BIOE3 Initiative:
- The collaboration is also linked to the BIOE3 policy initiated by the DBT, aimed at enhancing India’s bio-manufacturing sector. This policy envisions a bio-economy worth $300 billion by 2030 and focuses on advancing research in areas such as:
- Human health
- Pharmaceuticals and biotherapeutics
- Regenerative medicine
- Waste management technologies
- The space bio-manufacturing sector, as part of this initiative, is expected to drive innovation and support new startups, contributing to economic growth and scientific advancement.
- The collaboration is also linked to the BIOE3 policy initiated by the DBT, aimed at enhancing India’s bio-manufacturing sector. This policy envisions a bio-economy worth $300 billion by 2030 and focuses on advancing research in areas such as:
- Potential Impact:
- This partnership between ISRO and DBT not only signifies a step toward enhancing India’s capabilities in space science but also highlights the intersection of biotechnology and space research. By understanding biological processes in microgravity, researchers can develop solutions that benefit both space missions and terrestrial applications, particularly in health and environmental management.
Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS)
- BAS will be India’s first own space station and it will be established in 2028. BAS is envisaged as a national space-based facility that will support advanced microgravity research and technology development.
- The station’s creation is part of India’s broader vision for space during the Amrit Kaal, which includes launching an operational space station by 2035 and pursuing a crewed lunar mission by 2040.
- This effort led by ISRO with collaboration from industry, academia, and other national agencies will advance India’s space capabilities and foster innovation, industrial participation, and economic growth, particularly in high-tech sectors.
Conclusion
- The ISRO-DBT collaboration represents a forward-thinking approach to harnessing biotechnology for space exploration.
- By integrating advanced biological research into the design of the BAS, India is positioning itself as a key player in the future of space science while simultaneously addressing significant challenges in health and sustainability on Earth.
- The outcomes of this collaboration could lead to groundbreaking advancements in both space exploration and biotechnological innovation.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Which of the following statements about the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) is correct?
1. The BAS is expected to be operational between 2028 and 2035. 2. The BAS will be India’s first collaborative space station with other countries. 3. The primary aim of BAS is to conduct experiments on terrestrial agriculture. 4. The ISRO-DBT agreement will include studies on radiation impact on astronauts. Select the correct answer using the code below: A) 1 and 4 only B) 2 and 3 only C) 1, 3 and 4 only D) All of the above |
Q. Consider the following statements: The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO (2016)
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: C |
| Answer 1– A
Explanation – · Statement 1 is Correct. The Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) is indeed expected to be operational between 2028 and 2035, as stated in the agreement and plans laid out by ISRO. · Statement 2 is Incorrect. The BAS is intended to be India’s first indigenous space station, not a collaborative venture with other countries. While international collaboration in space is common, the current focus for the BAS is on India’s self-reliance in space technology. · Statement 3 is Incorrect. The primary aim of the BAS is to conduct various scientific experiments in space, particularly in the field of biotechnology and life sciences, rather than focusing solely on terrestrial agriculture. · Statement 4 is Correct. The ISRO-DBT agreement does indeed include studies on the impact of radiation on astronaut health, which is a critical aspect of ensuring the safety and well-being of crew members during space missions. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
2024 Global Nature Conservation Index
Source: Down-To-Earth
UPSC Relevance: GS3- Environment and Ecology
Context: Global Nature Conservation Index
Why in News
India with an abysmal score of 45.5 (out of 100) has been ranked 176th in the Global Nature Conservation Index, 2024.
Decline in Academic Freedom Index
- The Global Nature Conservation Index (NCI) 2024 has positioned India at a concerning rank of 176 out of 180 countries, with a score of 45.5 out of 100.
- This ranking highlight critical issues in India’s conservation efforts and raises alarms about biodiversity management in the country.
Overview of the Nature Conservation Index (NCI)
- Purpose and Development:
- The NCI is designed to evaluate conservation efforts globally, assessing how well countries balance biodiversity protection with development needs. It was developed by the Goldman Sonnenfeldt School of Sustainability and Climate Change at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and BioDB.com.
- The index employs a data-driven approach, focusing on four key markers:
- Land Management: How effectively land is utilized and preserved.
- Threats to Biodiversity: Assessing pressures such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.
- Capacity and Governance: The ability of a country to manage conservation efforts and enforce laws.
- Future Trends: Predictions on how current policies might impact future biodiversity.
- India’s Ranking and Score:
- India ranks among the five lowest-performing countries, indicating significant deficiencies in its conservation strategies. This is particularly troubling given the country’s rich biodiversity and ecological significance.
Reasons for Low Ranking
- Inefficient Land Management:
- A staggering 53% of land in India is converted for urban, industrial, and agricultural use, which exacerbates issues of habitat loss and fragmentation.
- High levels of pesticide usage and soil pollution further contribute to the degradation of land quality, as indicated by a sustainable nitrogen index score of 0.77.
- Biodiversity Threats:
- The assessment points to multiple threats impacting biodiversity, including:
- Habitat Loss: Driven by agriculture, urbanization, and infrastructural projects.
- Climate Change: Impacts sensitive ecosystems, particularly alpine regions and coral reefs.
- Deforestation: Between 2001 and 2019, India lost 23,300 sq. km of tree cover, indicating severe forest degradation.
- The assessment points to multiple threats impacting biodiversity, including:
- Marine Conservation Deficiencies:
- Only 0.2% of India’s national waterways are designated as protected areas, and there are none in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). While 7.5% of terrestrial territory is protected, significant improvements are needed in marine conservation efforts.
- Population Pressure:
- India’s high population density and rapid growth (the population has doubled since the late 1970s) place tremendous pressure on its ecological resources.
- Illegal Wildlife Trade:
- India ranks as the fourth-largest illegal wildlife trader globally, with annual sales around £15 billion. This underscores the need for stronger law enforcement and international cooperation to combat wildlife trafficking.
Implications and Recommendations
- Sustainable Practices:
- Emphasizing sustainable land-use techniques is crucial. Effective management can help mitigate the effects of pollution and land conversion.
- Strengthening Governance:
- Enhancing capacity and governance in conservation efforts is vital. This includes passing laws that promote sustainable development and securing funding for environmental initiatives.
- Political Will:
- Strong political commitment is necessary to implement effective conservation strategies. This involves collaboration across government sectors and with non-profit organizations.
- Public Awareness and Participation:
- Raising awareness about biodiversity issues and encouraging public participation in conservation efforts can drive grassroots movements for change.
- Future Trends and Opportunities:
- The NCI suggests that while India faces significant challenges, there are also opportunities for improvement. By adopting comprehensive conservation strategies, the country can enhance its ecological footprint and promote sustainable development.
Conclusion
- India’s low ranking in the Global Nature Conservation Index reflects a critical need for immediate action in biodiversity conservation.
- By addressing land management inefficiencies, enhancing governance, and fostering sustainable practices, India can work towards improving its conservation outcomes.
- This will not only benefit the country’s rich biodiversity but also contribute to broader environmental sustainability goals. Strong political will and public engagement are essential in this endeavor, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2. Which of the following statements about the Nature Conservation Index (NCI) is correct?
1. The NCI evaluates conservation efforts using four markers. 2. It was developed by the Goldman Sonnenfeldt School of Sustainability and Climate Change. 3. India ranks among the top five countries in the NCI. 4. The NCI is aimed solely at assessing terrestrial biodiversity. Select the correct answer using the code below: A) 1 and 2 only B) 1, 2 and 3 only C) 1 and 4 only D) All of the above |
Q. Which one of the following has been constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986? (2022)
a. Central Water Commission b. Central Ground Water Board c. Central Ground Water. Authority d. National Water Development Agency Ans: c
|
| Answer 2– A
Explanation – · Statement 1 is Correct. The Nature Conservation Index (NCI) evaluates conservation efforts using four key markers: land management, threats to biodiversity, capacity and governance, and future trends. This comprehensive approach helps assess how well countries are balancing conservation needs with development. · Statement 2 is Correct. The NCI was indeed developed by the Goldman Sonnenfeldt School of Sustainability and Climate Change at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, in collaboration with BioDB.com, a non-profit focused on biodiversity data. · Statement 3 is Incorrect. India does not rank among the top five countries in the NCI; instead, it ranks 176th out of 180 countries, making it one of the lowest performers in the index. · Statement 4 is Incorrect. The NCI is not aimed solely at assessing terrestrial biodiversity; it also evaluates marine biodiversity and the overall conservation status of a country’s ecosystems. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Government seeks to relaunch National Manuscript Mission, set up autonomous body
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 1- Art and Culture, GS 2 Polity and Governance
Context: National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM)
Why in News
- The Union Ministry of Culture is set to “revive and relaunch” the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM) and is mulling the formation of an autonomous body to help preserve ancient texts in India.
Overview of the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM)
- Establishment and Current Status:
- The NMM was established in 2003 as part of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, with the goal of preserving and promoting India’s ancient manuscripts.
- The mission has been instrumental in cataloging, digitizing, and conserving these texts.
- Proposed Changes:
- The Ministry is considering forming an autonomous body, likely to be called the National Manuscripts Authority, which will operate independently under the Ministry of Culture.
- This change aims to enhance the efficacy of manuscript preservation and facilitate better governance.
Recent Developments
- Expert Meeting:
- A crucial meeting was held on October 14, 2024, chaired by Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
- Achievements and Challenges: The NMM reported significant achievements, including:
- Preparation of metadata for 52 lakh manuscripts.
- Digitization of over 3 lakh titles, though only a third have been uploaded to accessible platforms.
- Preventive and curative conservation of 9 crore folios over 21 years.
- However, challenges remain, particularly in ensuring the accuracy of digitized data and improving access to manuscripts.
- Concerns were raised regarding mismatches between digitized metadata and actual manuscripts, which necessitates hand-correction.
- Access Issues:
- Approximately 70,000 of the nearly 1.3 lakh uploaded manuscripts are available for viewing, but a lack of an access policy restricts public access.
- Since about 80% of manuscripts in India are privately owned, this poses a significant barrier to broader public engagement and scholarship.
Future Roadmap
- International Collaboration:
- The NMM is considering establishing academic chairs in universities abroad that focus on ancient Indian studies.
- These positions would help foster international collaboration and facilitate knowledge exchange between Indian institutions and global academic communities.
- Legal and Intellectual Property Considerations:
- The meeting discussed the importance of including legal and intellectual property experts in the preservation efforts.
- This inclusion is vital for developing frameworks to protect manuscripts from illegal sales and to manage ownership rights effectively.
- Financial Support for Private Owners:
- Proposals were made to provide financial assistance to private manuscript owners for preservation and registration. This support would incentivize private holders to share their manuscripts with the public and contribute to the collective preservation efforts.
- Focus on Lesser-Known Scripts:
- There is a renewed emphasis on collating information and preserving non-Brahmi and other lesser-known scripts.
- This is essential for a more comprehensive understanding of India’s diverse linguistic heritage and for ensuring that lesser-known texts receive the attention they deserve.
Conclusion
- The revival of the National Mission for Manuscripts represents a critical step towards safeguarding India’s manuscript heritage.
- By forming an autonomous body, enhancing access to digitized manuscripts, and addressing legal and financial challenges, the Ministry of Culture aims to foster a robust framework for the preservation of ancient texts.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. Which of the following statements about the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM) is correct?
1. The NMM was established in 2003 as part of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts. 2. The NMM is primarily focused on the preservation of only Brahmi scripts. 3. The NMM is considering the formation of an autonomous body named the National Manuscripts Authority. 4. The NMM has digitized over 3 lakh titles, with all of them uploaded for public access. Select the correct answer using the code below: A) 1 and 3 only B) 2 and 4 only C) 1, 3 and 4 only D) All of the above |
Q. Other than the Fundamental Rights, which of the following parts of the Constitution of India reflect/ reflects the principles and provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)? (2020)
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only Ans: d
|
| Answer 3– A
Explanation – · Statement 1 is correct. The National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM) was indeed established in 2003 and is part of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts. This reflects its long-standing commitment to the preservation and promotion of ancient texts in India. · Statement 2 is Incorrect. The NMM is not limited to the preservation of only Brahmi scripts. It aims to preserve a wide range of manuscripts in various scripts and languages, including lesser-known and non-Brahmi scripts, which are crucial for understanding India’s diverse cultural heritage. · Statement 3 is correct. The NMM is indeed considering the formation of an autonomous body, likely to be named the National Manuscripts Authority. This move aims to enhance the effectiveness and governance of manuscript preservation efforts. · Statement 4 is Incorrect. While the NMM has digitized over 3 lakh titles, not all of them have been uploaded for public access. Only a portion of the digitized manuscripts is currently accessible, indicating ongoing challenges with data management and access policies.
|
Livestock census begins, one lakh veterinary staff on job
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS 3- Agriculture and Allied Sectors, Livestock sector
Context: 21st livestock census (LC)
Why in News
- The Centre has launched the 21st livestock census (LC), the five-yearly exercise of counting the country’s livestock.
What is the livestock census all about?
- Conducted every five years, the census carries out a headcount of the number of domesticated animals, poultry, and stray animals in the country.
- The census takes into account information about the species, breed, age, sex, and ownership status of the animals in question.
- Since 1919, a total of 20 livestock censuses have been carried out so far, with the last being conducted in 2019. The enumeration process for the 21st census will take place between October 2024 to February 2025.
- Over the next few months, some 87,000 enumerators will visit each and every independent house, apartment, and enterprise, as well as institutions such as gaushalas (cattle sheds), dairy farms, poultry farms, veterinary colleges, and defence establishments, to gather information about livestock in India.
- The census is expected to cover 30 crore households in India.
Purpose and Importance of the Livestock Census
- Policy Formation:
- The census is essential for shaping policies that ensure sustainable growth in the livestock sector. Accurate data helps the government tackle critical issues such as disease control, breed improvement, and enhancing rural livelihoods.
- Economic Impact:
- The livestock sector plays a vital role in the rural economy, providing nutrition, employment, and income for millions of households. It is a significant contributor to agricultural development and food security.
Innovations and Methodology
- Digital Advancements:
- This census introduces various technological innovations, including:
- A mobile application for data collection.
- A web-based dashboard for real-time monitoring of the census process, aiming to improve the accuracy and timeliness of the data collected.
- This census introduces various technological innovations, including:
- Data Collection Scope:
- The census will cover data on 15 livestock species, such as cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, pigs, and more, while also including a headcount of various poultry species.
- For the first time, the census will gather information on livestock holdings by pastoralists independently, as well as insights into the gender of individuals involved in livestock rearing, highlighting gender roles in this sector.
Engagement and Collaboration
- Field Officials:
- Approximately one lakh field officials, including veterinarians and para-veterinarians, are engaged in the exercise, which is scheduled to take place from October 2024 to February 2025. Their involvement is crucial for accurate data collection.
- Collaboration:
- The census is conducted in collaboration with State and Union Territory governments and the Ministry of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. This cooperative approach ensures that local contexts and needs are considered in the data collection process.
Implications of the Census Data
- Fresh Insights:
- The data gathered will provide fresh insights into the livestock sector, particularly regarding gender roles in livestock management, which can lead to more tailored and effective programs.
- Livelihood Support:
- The census data will help identify areas where interventions are necessary to uplift rural livelihoods and improve animal health, directly benefiting over 2.1 crore people involved in livestock farming.
- Food Security and Rural Development:
- Insights from the census will feed into national strategies aimed at food security, poverty alleviation, and overall rural development, ensuring that the livestock sector continues to contribute effectively to the economy.
Conclusion
- The 21st Livestock Census is a vital exercise that not only aims to provide accurate and comprehensive data on India’s livestock population but also seeks to enhance understanding of the sector’s socio-economic dynamics.
- By incorporating modern technologies and focusing on key issues such as gender roles and the needs of pastoralists, the census is set to play a crucial role in informing policies that will bolster the livestock sector’s contribution to India’s economy and rural welfare.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q4. Which of the following statements about the 21st Livestock Census (LC) is correct?
1. The census is conducted every five years. 2. It exclusively focuses on cattle and buffalo species. 3. The census aims to collect data on gender roles in livestock rearing. 4. The census is being conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture. Select the correct answer using the code below: A) 1 and 3 only B) 2 and 4 only C) 1 and 2 only D) All of the above |
Q. Which of the following is the chief characteristic of ‘mixed farming’? (2012) (a) Cultivation of both cash crops and food crops (b) Cultivation of two or more crops in the same field (c) Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together (d) None of the above Ans: (c)
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| Answer 4 – A
Explanation · Statement 1 is Correct. The Livestock Census in India is indeed a five-yearly exercise. The 21st Livestock Census was launched in October 2024, following the pattern established by previous censuses. · Statement 2 is Incorrect. The census does not exclusively focus on cattle and buffalo. It collects data on 15 species of livestock, including cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, pigs, camels, and others, as well as various poultry species. · Statement 3 is Correct. One of the innovations in this census is the collection of data regarding the gender of individuals involved in livestock rearing. This focus is aimed at understanding the socio-economic dynamics within the livestock sector. · Statement 4 is Incorrect. The 21st Livestock Census is being conducted by the Ministry of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, not the Ministry of Agriculture. This distinction is important as the Ministry of Animal Husbandry specifically focuses on issues related to livestock and dairy. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
BRICS bloc endorses India’s stance on EU’s carbon tax; pushes for local currency settlements
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2- International Relations
Context: Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
Why in News
- The recent Kazan Declaration by BRICS nations reflect a significant collective stance against the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and highlights the group’s commitment to local currency trade amid shifting global economic dynamics.
What is CBAM?
- The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism is a policy proposed by the EU aimed at imposing a carbon price on imports of certain goods (like steel and aluminum) based on their carbon footprint.
- This is intended to prevent carbon leakage, where companies might relocate production to countries with less stringent climate policies.
- BRICS Response: BRICS nations, including India, have criticized CBAM as discriminatory and protectionist. The joint statement emphasized that such unilateral measures violate international law, particularly when justified under environmental pretenses.
- This concern stems from the potential economic impact, with estimates suggesting that Indian exports could see a cost increase of 20-35%, making them less competitive in the EU market.
Support for Local Currency Trade:
- The BRICS declaration advocates for strengthening trade settlements in local currencies, reflecting a broader trend of reducing reliance on the US dollar in international trade.
- This aligns with the BRICS Cross-Border Payments Initiative (BCBPI), which aims to facilitate trade between member countries without the need for a third-party currency.
- Recent agreements between India and the UAE on local currency transactions, as well as ongoing discussions between India and Russia, signal a shift toward more localized economic interactions.
Global Economic Context:
- The push for local currency settlements is partly in response to geopolitical tensions, particularly the sanctions imposed on Russia by the West following its invasion of Ukraine. These sanctions have prompted Russia and its allies to seek alternatives to the dollar, increasing the urgency for a more multipolar currency system in trade.
- The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reported a gradual decline in the dollar’s dominance in global reserves, with BRICS nations looking to capitalize on this shift to bolster their economic resilience and independence.
Concerns Over Unilateral Sanctions:
- The joint statement also highlighted concerns about the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures (like sanctions) on global trade and economic stability. Such measures are seen as disruptive and detrimental to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- BRICS nations argue that illegal sanctions not only harm the targeted countries but also affect global supply chains and economic conditions, undermining collective efforts toward sustainable development.
Implications for BRICS and Global Trade
- Strengthening BRICS Cohesion:
- The rejection of CBAM and the advocacy for local currency transactions illustrate BRICS’s commitment to economic sovereignty and collective action against perceived unfair practices from Western economies, particularly the EU and the US.
- Economic Realignment:
- The emphasis on local currencies could lead to a significant shift in international trade patterns, reducing the dominance of the dollar and potentially leading to the emergence of new economic alliances. Countries that participate in this local currency trade may find increased economic stability and reduced exposure to currency fluctuations.
- Impact on Global Markets:
- The transition to local currencies could disrupt existing financial systems, especially if more countries follow BRICS’s lead. This might compel Western economies to reconsider their strategies and policies regarding international trade and sanctions.
- Environmental and Trade Policies:
- The backlash against CBAM could influence international negotiations on climate policies, prompting a reevaluation of how environmental standards are enforced globally without disproportionately affecting developing economies.
Conclusion
- The Kazan Declaration signals a pivotal moment for BRICS, as it collectively addresses challenges posed by unilateral trade measures like CBAM while pushing for a more equitable trading system that accommodates local currencies.
- This reflects a broader geopolitical shift and sets the stage for potential realignments in global economic practices, trade relations, and environmental policies.
- The outcomes of these discussions will be closely watched as they could reshape the future dynamics of international trade and cooperation among emerging economies.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ | ||||||||||
Q5. Match the following BRICS declarations/initiatives with their descriptions:
Select the correct answer using the code below: a) A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2 b) A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4 c) A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4 d) A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
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Q. With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2016)
Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1 and 3 only Answer: (b)
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| Answer 5-A
Explanation · A. Kazan Declaration: This declaration specifically rejected the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and addressed trade protectionism. · B. Ufa Declaration: This declaration focused on innovation and strengthening economic partnerships among BRICS countries. · C. Goa Declaration: This declaration emphasized local currency trade settlements among BRICS nations. · D. Durban Declaration: This declaration highlighted enhancing economic cooperation and partnerships among member countries. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |
Pashtun Tahafuz Movement: Dissent in the mountains
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2 – International Relations
Context: Pashtun Tahafuz Movement
Why in news
- The Pashtun ethnic community has complained about marginalisation in the country for decades.
Overview
- The Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), or Pashtun Protection Movement, is a grassroots organization focused on protecting the rights of Pakistan’s Pashtun community.
- For years, the Pashtun community, mainly residing in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province and former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), has faced longstanding grievances due to displacement, alleged discrimination, and military operations in their regions.
Formation and Goals of the PTM
- Originally called the Mahsud Tahafuz Movement, the PTM was established in 2014 by students aiming to remove landmines from northern Pakistan, a region populated by Pashtuns and other tribal groups.
- The group gained widespread support in 2018 after the killing of Naqeebullah Mehsud, a young Pashtun man shot by police in Karachi under controversial circumstances.
- Following this incident, the movement rebranded itself as the PTM and became an advocate for protecting Pashtuns from extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and forced disappearances.
Regional Context and Historical Background
- The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and the tribal areas along the Afghanistan border have a history of being conflict zones, dating back to the Afghan-Soviet war in the late 1970s.
- These regions have also become focal points of military operations since the September 11, 2001 attacks.
- Al-Qaeda and Taliban fighters took refuge here after fleeing Afghanistan, prompting multiple Pakistani military operations intended to eliminate these insurgents.
- Unfortunately, these operations also led to civilian casualties, forced displacements, and a sense of deprivation and marginalization among the local Pashtun population, fueling the rise of the PTM.
Leadership and Expansion
- Led by Manzoor Pashteen from Waziristan, the PTM has grown into a significant movement with widespread support, not only within Pakistan but also in countries like Germany, where the organization has opened branches.
- Prominent PTM leaders such as Ali Wazir and Mohsin Dawar were elected to Pakistan’s Parliament in 2018, giving the group a voice within the national political arena.
- Despite their parliamentary presence, the PTM leaders have faced significant challenges, including arrests and accusations of terrorism, as well as harassment from security forces.
Pakistani Government’s Stance and Recent Ban
- The Pakistani government banned the PTM on October 6, 2024, under anti-terror laws, claiming that the group was involved in activities against the nation’s peace and security.
- This ban drew criticism from human rights organizations like Amnesty International, which condemned it as an attack on the PTM’s right to peaceful assembly and freedom of association.
- Amnesty accused Pakistani authorities of resorting to force, enforced disappearances, and media restrictions to suppress grassroots movements in marginalized regions.
The Pashtun National Jirga
- Despite the ban, the PTM led the Pashtun National Jirga, an informal gathering intended to promote justice, equality, and democratic principles within the Pashtun community.
- The three-day Jirga, starting on October 11, 2024, was held to assert Pashtun rights and cultural heritage.
- The Jirga demanded that both the Pakistani military and terrorist elements withdraw from Pashtun-majority areas within two months, highlighting the community’s desire for a peaceful and autonomous future.
Conclusion
- The PTM has emerged as a powerful voice advocating for the rights of Pakistan’s marginalized Pashtun population.
- While it has faced significant opposition from the Pakistani government, the movement continues to push for social and political reforms aimed at protecting the Pashtun community.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ | ||||||||||
Q.6 Match the following movements with their respective countries:
Select the correct answer using the codes below: (a) A-2, B-4, C-3, D-1 |
Q. The Pulitzer Prize is associated with which one of the following? (2007)
(a) Environmental Protection (b) Olympic Games (c) Journalism (d) Civil Aviation Ans. (c)
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| Answer 6 – A
Explanation · The Yellow Vests Movement (A) occurred in France (2), driven by issues like fuel taxes and cost of living. · The Umbrella Movement (B) took place in Hong Kong (4), advocating for democratic reforms. · The Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) (C) is a grassroots movement in Pakistan (3), focused on Pashtun rights. · The Saffron Revolution (D) happened in Myanmar (1), where monks led protests against military rule. · Therefore, option A is the correct answer. |