Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – CARE (04-09-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| Economy: Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan Launches AgriSURE Fund |
| Culture and Heritage: Jaipur’s UNESCO Heritage Status to be Strengthened with ₹100 Crore Expenditure |
| Defence: DAC Approves Major Defence Acquisition Proposals |
| Polity and governance: India improves SDG score, performing well in addressing poverty, climate change: NITI Aayog report |
| Govt sets up 23rd Law Commission for legal reforms |
Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan Launches AgriSURE Fund
Source: PIB
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2051466
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3 Economy and Development
Context: AgriSURE Fund
Why in News
- In a landmark initiative for the agricultural sector, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, unveiled the AgriSURE Scheme recently.
Key Highlights:
- AgriSURE Overview : The AgriSURE Fund, officially termed Agri Fund for Start-ups & Rural Enterprises, is a ₹750 crore blended capital fund.
- It is categorized as a SEBI Registered Category II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF), with contributions from the Government of India, NABARD, and private investors.
- Government Commitment : During the launch, Minister Chouhan emphasized the government’s dedication to empowering farmers through technological support.
- He stated, “Our vision is to empower every farmer,” highlighting that farmers’ prosperity is crucial for the overall economic growth of the country.
- Focus on Innovation : The AgriSURE Scheme is designed to foster technology-driven, high-risk, high-impact ventures within the agricultural and rural start-up ecosystem, aiming to enhance production, reduce costs, and ensure remunerative prices for farmers.
- AgriSURE Greenathon Awards : The event also featured the AgriSURE Greenathon Awards , recognizing the most innovative start-ups addressing challenges in the agri-value chain.
- Out of 2000 applicants, the top three start-ups—Greensapio, Krushikanti, and Ambronics—were awarded a total prize pool of ₹6 lakhs.
Types of Support
- Sector-Specific Investments: Investments tailored to specific agricultural sectors.
- Sector-Agnostic Investments: Investments not limited to specific sectors, allowing flexibility.
- Debt Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs): Providing debt alternatives for funding.
- Direct Equity Support: Direct equity investments in start-ups.
About Krishi Nivesh Portal
- The Krishi Nivesh Portal serves as a centralized, one-stop platform for agricultural investors to access various government schemes and benefits.
- Launched: It was launched on December 5, 2022.
- Aim: To streamline the investment process and enhance transparency, making it easier for both domestic and international investors to contribute to India’s agricultural growth
About NABARD
- Regulatory Body: Central to India’s rural banking system
- Purpose: Enhance rural development through credit provision and regulation-
- Ownership: Government of India.
- Establishment: 12 July 1982.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Provides investment and production credit for rural development projects
- Coordinates with government, RBI, state governments, and other institutions.
- Monitors and evaluates refinanced projects
- Formulates strategies for rehabilitation schemes and restructures credit institutions
- Provides training and support to institutions working towards rural upliftment
- Manages Natural Resource Management Programmes
- Supports Self-Help Groups (SHGs) through the SHG bank linkage programme.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Consider the following statements with regards to ‘AgriSure’:
1. ‘AgriSure’ will support startups and ‘agripreneurs’ by providing only debt capital. 2. It is categorized as a SEBI Registered Category II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF). 3. It has contributors from the Government of India, NABARD, and world bank. Which of the above statements is/are incorrect? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 |
Q. Which of the following grants/grant direct credit assistance to rural households? (2013)
1. Regional Rural Banks 2. National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development 3. Land Development Banks Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (A) 1 and 2 only (B) 2 only (C) 1 and 3 only (D) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (C) |
| Answer 1- C
Explanation
|
Jaipur’s UNESCO Heritage Status to be Strengthened with ₹100 Crore Expenditure
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 1 (Indian Culture and Heritage)
Context: Jaipur’s UNESCO heritage status to be strengthened
Why in news
- Recently the heritage conservation and development of the Walled City of Jaipur, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019, will be taken up with a budgetary expenditure of ₹100 crore.
Key highlights
- The initiative includes plans to beautify the Man Sagar Lake embankment and develop a photography point in front of the iconic Hawa Mahal, one of Jaipur’s most distinctive landmarks.
- These efforts are expected to boost tourism and benefit the local economy, while also enhancing the overall infrastructure of the city.
- The Walled City of Jaipur is renowned for its buildings constructed with a pink facade and was recommended for world heritage status by the International Council on Monuments and Sites due to its unique architectural features.
- The grant of heritage status considered the grid plan-based architecture of streets with colonnades that intersect at the center, creating large public squares known as chaupars .
- Jaipur was founded in 1727 by Sawai Jai Singh II , the Kachwaha Rajput ruler of Amber.
- The city’s urban planning reflects an exchange of ideas from ancient Hindu, modern Mughal, and Western cultures.
- Jaipur serves as the capital city of Rajasthan and has maintained its local commercial, artisanal, and cooperative traditions.
Jaipur: A World Heritage Site
- Jaipur was declared as a World Heritage Site at the 43rd session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee (WHC) (30 June to 10 July 2019).
- aipur has become the second city of the country after Ahmedabad to get the recognition.
- With Jaipur’s inclusion as a cultural site, the number of heritage sites across India that are on the UNESCO World Heritage list, has grown to 38, including 30 cultural properties, 7 natural properties and 1 mixed site.
- The walled city of Jaipur in Rajasthan, was founded in 1727 AD under the patronage of Sawai Jai Singh II. It also serves as the capital city of the state of Rajasthan.
About UNESCO World Heritage Committee (WHC)
- The World Heritage Committee is composed of representatives of 21 States Parties to the World Heritage Convention who meet annually.
- The Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage is an international agreement that was adopted by the General Conference of UNESCO in 1972.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2. Consider the following statements with regards to news related to Jaipur’s UNESCO Heritage Status:
1. Jaipur’s Walled City was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. 2. The city will receive a budget of ₹100 crore for heritage conservation and infrastructure development. 3. Heritage conservation and infrastructure development plans of Jaipur include beautifying Man Sagar Lake and creating a photography point near Hawa Mahal. 4. Jaipur’s urban planning reflects a blend of ancient Hindu, Mughal, and Western architectural styles. Which of the above statements is/are correct? A. 1, 2 and 3 only B. 2 and 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
Q. Which one of the following National Parks has a climate that varies from tropical to subtropical, temperate and arctic? (2015)
(A) Khangchendzonga National Park (B) Nandadevi National Park (C) Neora Valley National Park (D) Namdapha National Park Ans: (D) |
| Answer 2- D
Explanation
|
DAC Approves Major Defence Acquisition Proposals
Source: PIB
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2051323
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS Paper – 3 Government Policies & Interventions Defence Technology
Context: Defence Acquisition
Why in news
- Recently the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved 10 capital acquisition proposals worth ₹1.45 lakh crore..
Key Highlights
- The approved proposals include the procurement of Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs) to modernize the Indian Army’s tank fleet.
- These tanks will feature advanced mobility, multilayered protection, and real-time situational awareness.
- The DAC has also sanctioned the acquisition of Air Defence Fire Control Radars , which will enhance the ability to detect and track aerial targets, providing effective firing solutions.
- Additionally, the council approved the Forward Repair Team (Tracked) , designed for cross-country mobility to conduct in-situ repairs during mechanized operations, ensuring operational readiness.
- To bolster the Indian Coast Guard’s capabilities, three proposals were approved, including the procurement of Dornier-228 aircraft and Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels , enhancing surveillance and patrolling capabilities in maritime zones.
What is the Defense Acquisition Council
- The DAC is the highest decision-making body in the Defence Ministry for deciding on new policies and capital acquisitions for the three services (Army, Navy and Air Force) and the Indian Coast Guard.
- The Minister of Defence is the Chairman of the Council.
- It was formed, after the Group of Ministers recommendations on ‘Reforming the National Security System’, in 2001, post Kargil War (1999).
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. Consider the following statements with reference to The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) :
1. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), is chaired by Prime minister of India . 2. It was formed, after the Group of Ministers recommendations on ‘Reforming the National Security System’, in 2011. Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (A) 1 only (B) 2 only (C) 1 and 2 (D) Neither 1 nor 2 |
Q. What is the primary purpose of the 30mm High Explosive Preformed Fragmentation (HEPF) Shell? (2018)
(A) To enhance the range of naval artillery (B) To increase combat capability against drones (C) To improve anti-submarine warfare capabilities (D) To upgrade naval gun barrel durability Answer : B |
| Answer 3- B
Explanation
|
Govt sets up 23rd Law Commission for legal reforms
Source: The Indian Express
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/23rd-law-commission-three-years-legal-reforms-9547237/
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 2- Polity and Governance
Context: 23rd Law Commission
Why in news
- Recently the Union government has established the 23rd Law Commission for a three-year term, starting September 1, 2024.
Key Highlights
- The commission will operate from September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2027 , focusing on legal reforms.
- It will consist of a full-time chairperson, four full-time members, and up to five part-time members.
- The commission’s mandate includes creating a standard operating procedure for periodic reviews of existing laws.
- It aims to ensure that laws remain relevant and effective in addressing current economic and social needs.
- The government is yet to appoint the members. The last Law Commission was notified in February 2020, but the chairperson and members were only appointed in November 2022.
About Law Commission of India
- It is a non-statutory body and is constituted by a notification of the Government of India, Ministry of Law & Justice.
- It is constituted with definite terms of reference to carry out research in the field of law, and the Commission makes recommendations to the Government (in the form of Reports) as per its terms of reference.
- It functions to the Ministry of Law and Justice as an advisory body.
History:
- The first pre-independence law commission was established in 1834 by the British Government in India.
- It was established by the Charter Act of 1833 and was chaired by Lord Macaulay.
- The first Law Commission of independent India was established in 1955 under the chairmanship of the former Attorney General for India, M. C. Setalvad.
- This Commission was created for a period of three years, and this practice has persisted ever since then, resulting in the reconstitution of Law Commissions every three years via executive orders.
Functioning:
- The Commission works on projects based on the references received from the Central Government and/or from the Supreme Court and High Courts.
- At times, keeping in view the importance of the subject matter, the Commission initiates studies on specific subjects, suo moto.
- The Commission is aided in its work on the legal side by the law officers of the Indian Legal Service and on the administrative side by the officers of the Central Secretariat Service.
- The Commission always welcomes suggestions from any person, institution, or organization on the issues under consideration of the Commission.
Important Recommendations of the Commission
- The Law Commission has taken up various subjects on references made by Department of Legal Affairs, Supreme Court and High Courts and submitted 277 reports.
- The Commission provides thought provoking and vital review of the laws in India.
Important Recommendations include –
- The 170th report of the Law commission on Electoral reforms, 1999 had suggested simultaneous Lok Sabha and State Assembly Elections. It recommended that this is for the improvement of governance and stability of the states.
- The Law Commission in its 262nd report recommended the abolition of death penalty for all crimes except terror-related offences and waging war against the state.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q4. Consider the following statements with reference to 23rd Law Commission:
1. Recently the Union government has established the 23rd Law Commission for a Five-year term. 2. It will consist of a full-time chairperson, Six full-time members, and up to Four part-time members. 3. The first Law Commission of independent India was established in 1834 under the chairmanship of the former Attorney General for India, M. C. Setalvad. Which of the above statements is/are incorrect? A. 1 and 2 only B. 3 only C. 1 and 3 only D. 1, 2 and 3 |
Q. Consider the following provisions under the Directive Principles of State Policy as enshrined in the Constitution of India: (2012)
1. Securing for citizens of India a uniform civil code 2. Organising village Panchayats 3. Promoting cottage industries in rural areas 4. Securing for all the workers reasonable leisure and cultural opportunities Which of the above are the Gandhian Principles that are reflected in the Directive Principles of State Policy? (A) 1, 2 and 4 only (B) 2 and 3 only (C) 1, 3 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Answer : ( B) |
| Answer 4-D
Explanation:
|
India improves SDG score, performing well in addressing poverty, climate change: NITI Aayog report
Source: The Down to Earth
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS Paper – 2 Inclusive Growth & Development Government Policies & Interventions , NITI Aayog
Context: SDG score, performing well in addressing poverty, climate change
Why in news
- India has made notable progress in its Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) score, achieving a score of 71 in the latest NITI Aayog report for 2023-24, up from 66 in 2021-22.
Key Highlights
- Overall Improvement: India’s SDG score increased from 66 to 71, marking a significant advancement since the first assessment in 2018, where the score was 57.
- Top Performing States: West Bengal, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, and Manipur each improved their scores by 8 points, with West Bengal achieving a score of 70.
- Best Performing Areas: India excelled in ‘affordable and clean energy’ (score of 96), ‘clean water and sanitation’ (score of 89), and ‘sustainable cities’ (score of 83).
- Challenges: The report highlighted stagnation in addressing ‘gender equality’ (score of 49) and a decline in ‘reduced inequality’ (score dropped from 67 to 65 ).
- Regional Disparities: While states like Tamil Nadu and Goa performed well, several northeastern states struggled, with Nagaland and Meghalaya scoring the lowest.
About SDG India Index
- The SDG India Index is a tool developed by NITI Aayog to measure and track India’s progress towards the SDGs set by the United Nations.
- The Index supports the localization of SDGs, encouraging states to integrate these goals into their development plans.
- It serves as a benchmark for policymakers to identify gaps and prioritise actions towards achieving sustainable development by 2030.
SDG goals
- Goal 1: No Poverty ,
- Goal 2: Zero Hunger ,
- Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being ,
- Goal 4: Quality Education ,
- Goal 5: Gender Equality ,
- Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation ,
- Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy ,
- Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth ,
- Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure ,
- Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
- Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- Goal 13: Climate Action
- Goal 14: Life Below Water
- Goal 15: Life on Land
- Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
About NITI Aayog
- The Planning Commission in India was replaced by NITI Aayog in 2015, with a shift towards a ‘Bottom-Up’ approach and emphasis on cooperative federalism.
- The composition of NITI Aayog includes the Prime Minister as Chairperson, Chief Ministers of all states and Lt. Governors of Union Territories in the Governing Council, and experts nominated by the Prime Minister as Special Invitees.
- Chief Executive Officer appointed by the Prime Minister for a specific term, holding the rank of Secretary to the Government of India.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q5. Match the following SDG Goals with correct description:
SDG Goal Description 1.Goal 2 : Zero Hunger 2.Goal 4 : No Poverty 3.Goal 6 ; Clean Water and Sanitation 4.Goal 16 : Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions Which of the following pairs is/are correct matched ? (A) 1, 2 and 4 only (B) 2 and 3 only (C) 1, 3 and 4 only (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
Q. Sustainable development is described as the development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In this perspective, inherently the concept of sustainable development is intertwined with which of the following concepts? (2010)
(A) Social justice and empowerment (B) Inclusive Growth (C) Globalization (D) Carrying capacity Ans: (D) |
| Answer 5 – C
Explanation:
|