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CURRENT AFFAIRS – 02/05/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS - 02/05/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 02/05/2024

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  1. CURRENT AFFAIRS – 02/05/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 02/05/2024

ISRO finds proof of enhanced possibility of water ice in polar craters of the moon

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

Indian space scientists, in collaboration with international researchers, have conducted a study revealing significant evidence of water ice occurrence in the polar craters of the Moon.

  • The study, led by ISRO’s Space Applications Centre (SAC), sheds light on the abundance, distribution, and origins of sub-surface water ice on the lunar poles.

Key Highlights

  • Key Findings:
    • Abundance of Sub-Surface Ice:
      • The study indicates that the amount of sub-surface ice within the first couple of meters is substantially greater (five to eight times) than surface ice in both lunar poles.
    • Regional Disparities:
      • The research suggests that the northern polar region hosts twice as much water ice as the southern polar region.
    • Origin of Ice:
      • Confirming prior hypotheses, the study links the primary source of sub-surface water ice in lunar poles to out-gassing during volcanism in the Imbrian period.
    • Factors Influencing Distribution:
      • The distribution of water ice is likely influenced by mare volcanism and preferential impact cratering.
    • Methodology:
      • The research employed a comprehensive suite of seven instruments aboard NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO), including radar, laser, optical, neutron spectrometer, ultra-violet spectrometer, and thermal radiometer.
      • These instruments facilitated a detailed understanding of the origin and distribution of water ice on the Moon.
    • Implications:
      • Mission Planning Significance:
        • Accurate knowledge of water ice distribution and depth is crucial for selecting future landing and sampling sites, minimizing uncertainties in missions aimed at exploring and characterizing lunar volatiles.
      • Supporting Previous Studies:
        • The findings align with previous research conducted by SAC-ISRO, further validating the presence of water ice in polar craters.
        • Notably, data from Chandrayaan-2’s Dual-frequency Synthetic Aperture Radar instrument contributed to this understanding.
      • Future Exploration Plans:
        • This study provides essential support for ISRO’s future in-situ volatile exploration plans on the Moon, laying groundwork for potential missions and enhancing India’s role in lunar exploration endeavors.

About NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO)

  • NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) is a crucial robotic spacecraft orbiting the Moon, launched on June 18, 2009, as part of NASA’s Lunar Precursor Robotic Program.
  • Mission Objectives:
    • Identify potential lunar resources
    • Gather detailed maps of the lunar surface
    • Collect data on the moon’s radiation levels
    • Study the moon’s polar regions for resources
    • Provide measurements for future robotic and human lunar exploration
  • LRO’s significant contributions include creating a 3D map of the Moon’s surface, imaging Apollo landing sites, and searching for water ice in Polar Regions.
  • The spacecraft plays a pivotal role in NASA’s Artemis program, aimed at returning humans to the Moon’s surface.

IIA releases video of the moon occulting brightest star Antares

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

The Bengaluru-based Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) has documented a rare celestial event where the moon passed in front of Antares, a prominent red star, on April 27.

  • This phenomenon, known as an occultation, resulted in Antares being hidden from view for approximately 40 minutes.
  • The observation was unique to southern India and was captured by IIA using sophisticated equipment.

Key Highlights

  • Occultation Event Details:
    • The moon’s passage in its orbit occasionally causes it to occult or obscure bright stars and planets behind it.
    • Antares, also known as Jyeshtha, is the brightest star in the Scorpius constellation and experiences such occultations periodically.
    • The proximity of the moon to Earth means that these occultations are only visible from specific locations on the globe, similar to the localized visibility of solar eclipses.
  • Observational Method:
    • IIA recorded the event from its Bengaluru campus, utilizing a camera mounted on an 8-inch telescope.
    • The telescope tracked Antares during the occultation, capturing the relative motion of the moon.
  • Frequency of Occultations:
    • The last visible occultation of Antares from India occurred on February 5 of the same year, with the next anticipated event scheduled for June 2027.
    • Additionally, Indian observers can expect to witness the moon occulting the planet Saturn on July 24 and again on October 14, 2024.

Note: Occultation, refers to the phenomenon where one celestial object passes in front of another, obscuring it from the observer’s point of view. This can occur with various combinations of celestial bodies, such as a planet passing in front of a star, a moon passing in front of a planet, or even one planet’s moon passing in front of another.

About Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA)

  • The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) is a premier research institute located in Bengaluru, India, that is devoted to research in astronomy, astrophysics, and related fields.
  • History and Establishment
    • The origins of IIA can be traced back to an observatory set up in 1786 in Madras (now Chennai) by William Petrie, an officer of the East India Company.
    • In 1899, the observatory was moved to Kodaikanal, where it became the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory.
    • In 1971, the Kodaikanal Observatory was converted into an autonomous research institute called the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), funded by the Government of India’s Department of Science and Technology.
    • The headquarters of IIA were shifted to Bengaluru in 1975, where it is currently located in the Koramangala area.
  • IIA conducts research across various fields of astronomy and astrophysics, including the Sun and solar system, stellar astronomy, galactic astronomy, extragalactic astronomy, and cosmology.

An animal protection Bill that must be moved in June

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

Countries worldwide are taking steps to reform their animal cruelty laws, aiming to strengthen penalties for offenders.

  • Recent developments in Croatia and India highlight the growing momentum towards enhancing legal protections for animals and holding perpetrators of cruelty accountable.

Key Highlights

  • Croatia’s Legislative Changes:
    • Croatia recently implemented amendments to its Penal Code, effective from April 2, to address acts of cruelty, particularly the abandonment of domestic pets.
    • The revised laws impose stricter penalties for causing unnecessary pain or suffering to animals and for instances of killing or severe abuse.
    • Demand for Stricter Laws in India:
      • In India, an incident involving the killing of a community dog named in Mumbai has sparked outrage and renewed calls for tougher penalties for animal cruelty.
    • Analysis of Current Laws:
      • Criticism has been directed towards the inadequacies of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act of 1960, the primary legislation addressing animal cruelty in India.
      • Challenges such as poor enforcement and minimal penalties have hindered the act’s effectiveness in preventing cruelty.
      • However, a deeper examination reveals additional complexities when viewed through the lens of punishment theories.
      • Theories of Punishment:
        • Punishment for crimes can be categorized into three main objectives:
          • retribution, deterrence, and reformation or rehabilitation.
        • Retribution involves imposing punishment as retribution for the crime committed, seeking to balance justice.
        • Deterrence aims to dissuade both the perpetrator and the public from engaging in similar acts in the future through the threat of punishment.
        • Reformation or rehabilitation focuses on reforming the offender’s behavior to prevent future criminal conduct.
      • Evaluation of Current Laws:
        • Despite the existence of legal provisions under the PCA Act, the effectiveness of punishment in achieving these objectives remains questionable.
        • While penalties may serve as retribution for animal cruelty, they often fall short in deterring future offenses due to inadequate enforcement and lenient consequences.
        • Furthermore, the act’s capacity for reforming offenders and promoting behavioral change is limited.
      • Inadequacies of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act:
        • The current form of the PCA Act falls short in achieving its intended objectives due to several shortcomings.
        • Firstly, many of the offences under the Act are bailable, allowing accused individuals to seek bail as a matter of right.
        • Additionally, the offences are non-cognisable, meaning that police cannot take immediate action without court permission.
        • Secondly, the fines prescribed under the Act have remained unchanged for over 130 years, rendering them insignificant and inadequate to deter offenders.
        • Lack of Effective Punishment:
          • Furthermore, the Act grants courts the discretion to choose between imprisonment and fines, often resulting in lenient punishments for perpetrators of animal cruelty.
          • This loophole enables individuals to escape severe consequences for even the most brutal acts of cruelty by merely paying fines.
          • Moreover, the Act lacks provisions for alternative forms of punishment, such as community service, which could potentially reform offenders and prevent future incidents of cruelty.
        • Proposed Amendments and Draft PCA (Amendment) Bill, 2022:
          • In November 2022, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying released the Draft PCA (Amendment) Bill, 2022 for public feedback.
          • The proposed amendments aim to address the deficiencies in the existing law by introducing significant changes, including the incorporation of five fundamental freedoms for animals and increased penalties for offences.
          • Additionally, new cognisable offences are to be added to strengthen legal provisions.
          • Concerns and Continued Shortcomings:
            • Despite the widespread support for the Draft Bill, it has yet to be tabled in Parliament.
            • While the proposed amendments represent a substantial improvement over the current law, certain concerns persist.
            • For instance, for offences involving extreme cruelty or animal killings, the Draft Bill still offers courts the option of imposing fines instead of imprisonment, potentially allowing offenders to evade appropriate punishment.
          • Hope for Progress:
            • However, it is essential to acknowledge that the enactment of the Draft Bill would signify a significant advancement in animal welfare legislation in India.
            • As the government transitions, there is an opportunity to fulfill this responsibility and enact amendments to the PCA Act, bringing India closer to setting a global example in animal protection.

About the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act of 1960

  • Purpose: The Act was enacted by the Parliament of India in 1960 to prevent cruelty to animals and amend existing laws on the matter.
  • Definitions: The Act defines “animal” as any living creature other than a human being.
  • Animal Welfare Board of India:
    • The Act established the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) to promote animal welfare activities, advise the government, and oversee the implementation of the Act.
  • Prohibited Acts:
    • The Act lists various forms of cruelty to animals that are prohibited, including beating, kicking, overriding, overdriving, overloading, torturing, and causing unnecessary pain or suffering.
  • Experiments on Animals:
    • The Act allows experiments on animals, but requires a committee to control and supervise such experiments to ensure they are necessary and do not cause unnecessary suffering.
  • Performing Animals:
    • The Act regulates the exhibition and training of performing animals, requiring registration and allowing courts to prohibit such activities if they cause unnecessary pain or suffering.
  • Penalties:
    • Violations of the Act can result in fines and/or imprisonment, with the penalties varying based on the offense.

The wrong way to fight inequality

(Genera Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

Renowned French economist Thomas Piketty, along with other economists, has recently unveiled striking revelations regarding economic inequality trends in India spanning the last century.

  • In their work titled “Income and Wealth Inequality in India, 1922-2023: The Rise of the Billionaire Raj,” Piketty and collaborators assert that contemporary inequality in India surpasses levels observed during the inter-war British colonial era.

Key Highlights

  • Magnitude of Inequality:
    • According to Piketty’s research, in 2022, the top 1% of India’s population possessed a staggering 40.1% of total wealth and garnered 22.6% of total income.
    • In stark contrast, the bottom 50% of the population owned a mere 6.4% of total wealth and earned just 15% of total income.
    • Such disparities are exacerbated when comparing the bottom 50% with the top 10%, who commanded a significant 65% of total wealth and garnered 57.7% of total national income.
    • Calls for Policy Reform:
      • Utilizing these findings, Piketty and his colleagues advocate for policy reforms, particularly in India’s tax system, which predominantly relies on income-based taxation.
      • They argue for the implementation of a wealth tax targeting the affluent segment of society to mitigate growing inequality.
    • Understanding Key Trends:
      • To comprehend the implications of these findings, it is imperative to analyze two crucial trends highlighted by Piketty and his co-authors.
      • Firstly, income and wealth inequality in India witnessed a sharp escalation from the 1980s, coinciding with the country’s gradual adoption of market-oriented policies.
      • Notably, the share of the bottom 50% in total national income plummeted from 23.6% in 1982 to a mere 15% in 2022, while the income share of the top 10% surged from 30.1% to 57.7% over the same period.
      • Secondly, India’s economic trajectory experienced a shift, transitioning from stagnant growth during the socialist decades to accelerated expansion post-1990.
      • Piketty and his collaborators highlight the stark contrast, noting a dismal annual growth rate of 1.6% between 1960 and 1990, compared to a robust 3.6% per year from 1990 to 2022.
    • Interpreting Trends:
      • These trends shed light on the evolving landscape of inequality and economic growth in India.
      • The data underscores the correlation between market-oriented reforms, economic growth, and exacerbating wealth disparities.
      • However, it also prompts critical reflection on the effectiveness of wealth redistribution measures in addressing structural inequalities.
    • Understanding Trends in Income Distribution:
      • Two key insights emerge from the analysis of income distribution trends, challenging conventional interpretations of wealth inequality in India.
      • Real Income Growth of the Bottom 50%:
        • Contrary to assumptions based solely on their declining share of national income, data from the World Inequality Lab reveals a significant increase in the real income of India’s bottom 50% over the past three decades.
        • Despite their share dropping from 23.6% to 15% between 1991 and 2022, the total real income of this demographic has soared over four-fold.
        • This suggests that the expanding economic pie has enabled even those with a reduced share to experience higher real incomes, underscoring the complexity of wealth distribution dynamics.
      • Disparities in Economic Freedom:
        • Analysis of income shares since the 1980s reveals stark discrepancies in economic freedom between different socioeconomic groups.
        • In a market economy, income shares are contingent upon individuals’ ability to compete for a portion of the total national income.
        • Piketty’s estimates illustrate a glaring disparity, with the top 1% earning an average of ₹53 lakh annually compared to a mere ₹71,000 for the bottom 50%.
        • Such disparities highlight systemic barriers hindering equitable access to lucrative opportunities and impeding upward mobility for the economically disadvantaged.
      • Implications for Policy and Economic Reform:
        • In a truly free market economy, substantial income differentials would incentivize individuals to pursue high-paying professions, thus narrowing the wealth gap through increased competition.
        • However, real-world barriers such as limited access to capital and exorbitant costs of specialized education hinder the realization of this potential arbitrage.
        • Therefore, the prescription for addressing wealth inequality lies not in punitive taxation but in liberalizing sectors such as finance and medical education.
        • Such reforms would empower the economically marginalized to invest in acquiring skills for lucrative occupations, fostering genuine socioeconomic mobility.
      • Advocating for Economic Freedom:
        • Furthermore, it is essential to acknowledge the dire lack of property rights protection for the bottom 50%, exacerbating their economic vulnerability and impeding their ability to improve their circumstances.
        • To facilitate meaningful progress, policymakers must prioritize enhancing economic freedom for India’s poor, enabling them to pursue opportunities for advancement and economic prosperity.
        • Rather than imposing heavier taxes on high-income earners, fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and equitable access to resources is imperative for fostering inclusive economic growth and reducing wealth disparities.
      • Inevitability of Wealth Inequality:
        • Examining trends in wealth distribution reveals stark disparities between India’s affluent elite and the economically disadvantaged.
        • The top 1% of India’s population boasts an average net wealth of ₹5.4 crore, while individuals in the bottom 50% possess a meager ₹1.7 lakh on average.
        • However, it’s crucial to recognize that wealth inequality is an inherent feature of a market economy.
        • Market Dynamics and Wealth Accumulation:
          • In a market-driven system, wealth disparities arise as a consequence of the market rewarding individuals based on their investment acumen and capital allocation skills.
          • Successful investors who generate profits witness their wealth share expand over time, while those who incur losses experience a decline in their share of wealth.
          • Entrepreneurs who introduce innovative products or services that benefit large populations are rewarded with substantial profits, thereby amplifying their wealth share.
        • Role of Government Privileges:
          • However, the extreme wealth disparity prevalent in India is not solely attributable to the market dynamics rewarding entrepreneurial prowess.
          • Rather, a significant portion of this inequality stems from the top 1% enjoying preferential treatment and special privileges conferred by the government.
          • These privileges shield them from competition in the marketplace, thereby safeguarding their wealth share from erosion.
        • Advocating for Free Market Competition:
          • To address burgeoning wealth inequality, it is imperative to dismantle such preferential treatment and foster a more competitive economic landscape.
          • Removing barriers to entry and enhancing competition would naturally diminish the wealth share of the top 1% while catalyzing economic growth.
          • In a truly competitive environment, the best investors would ascend to the top of the wealth hierarchy through their merit, contributing to the expansion of the economic pie.
          • Moreover, free competition ensures that no individual or entity can indefinitely maintain a dominant position by exploiting special privileges.
        • Unintended Consequences of Wealth Tax:
          • Implementing a wealth tax is anticipated to yield unintended repercussions, contrary to popular belief.
          • Investors possess the ability to mitigate the impact of higher taxes, including a wealth tax, by adjusting their investment capital to maintain desired post-tax income levels.
          • Consequently, the burden of higher taxes on the wealthy is likely to indirectly affect workers and landowners, resulting in reduced wages and returns to maintain investor profitability.
          • This, in turn, would adversely impact the income and output of ordinary workers, predominantly comprising the bottom 50% and middle 40% of the population.
            • A wealth tax targeting labor and landowners would similarly yield negative consequences, exacerbating the economic challenges faced by lower-income groups.
            • Essentially, a wealth tax on the affluent would ultimately translate into a tax burden on lower-income segments of society.
          • Composition of Wealth:
            • Contrary to misconceptions, the bulk of the wealth held by the top 1% is predominantly comprised of capital assets such as advanced factories and real estate, rather than consumer goods and services.
            • Thus, the notion that low living standards among the poor stem from the affluent monopolizing consumer goods is unfounded.
            • In reality, the ownership of capital assets by the wealthy significantly enhances worker productivity, thereby contributing to increased output of consumer goods and services and consequently improving living standards for the masses.
          • Alternative Approaches to Addressing Inequality:
            • In light of the adverse implications associated with a wealth tax, advocating for policies that prioritize economic freedom for the disadvantaged is imperative.
            • Empowering the economically marginalized with greater access to opportunities and resources enables them to compete more effectively in the marketplace, thereby securing a larger share of the economic pie.
            • Rather than penalizing the rich through taxation, fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and equitable competition offers a more sustainable path to reducing inequality and enhancing overall economic prosperity.

Sea also rises

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

Recent studies conducted by scientists at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune, and other international institutions highlight the alarming implications of climate change on the Indian Ocean.

  • Despite the temporary relief offered by anticipated monsoon rains, the long-term prognosis is concerning.

Key Highlights

  • Warming Trends and Marine Heatwaves:
    • The Indian Ocean has experienced a significant temperature increase of 1.2°C, with projections indicating further warming ranging from 1.7°C to 3.8°C by 2100.
    • This escalation in ocean temperatures is anticipated to lead to a tenfold rise in marine heatwaves, resulting in a near-permanent heatwave state.
    • Such conditions not only accelerate coral bleaching but also pose threats to the fisheries sector.
    • Rising Thermal Capacity:
      • The warming of the Indian Ocean is not restricted to surface temperatures but extends to increased heat content throughout its depth.
      • The thermal capacity of the ocean, measured from the surface to 2,000 meters below, is currently rising at a rate of 4.5 zetta-joules per decade.
      • Projections suggest this rate will escalate to 16–22 zetta-joules per decade in the future, signifying a substantial increase in energy absorption.
    • Implications for Mainland India:
      • The consequences of a warming Indian Ocean reverberate across mainland India, with heightened frequencies of severe cyclones and erratic monsoon patterns.
      • The intensified cycle of droughts followed by intense rainfall exacerbates flooding and poses significant challenges for infrastructure and livelihoods.
    • Anthropogenic Contributions to Climate Change:
      • These developments are intrinsically linked to global warming, with anthropogenic factors such as fossil fuel burning playing a pivotal role.
      • Despite global commitments to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, the oceans respond slowly to external inputs, rendering current efforts insufficient in curbing the impending crisis.
    • Call for Collaborative Action:
      • Addressing the challenges posed by a warming Indian Ocean necessitates collaborative efforts among countries bordering the region.
      • India must spearhead initiatives to enhance data gathering and projections, aligning with collaborative associations to guide infrastructure development and safeguard vulnerable communities.

Analysing labour on a warming planet

(General Studies- Paper II0

Source : The Hindu

The International Labour Organization (ILO) emphasizes the critical need to climate-proof labor and adapt to the evolving work environment amidst global warming.

  • The latest report underscores the urgency of overhauling existing Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) protections to mitigate the risks posed by climate change.

Key Highlights

  • Identified Climate Change Hazards:
    • The ILO identifies six primary impacts of climate change, including excessive heat, solar ultraviolet radiation, extreme weather events, workplace air pollution, vector-borne diseases, and agrochemicals.
    • These hazards can lead to various health issues such as stress, stroke, and exhaustion, disproportionately affecting workers in sectors like agriculture, construction, conservancy, transport, and tourism.
  • Vulnerability of Gig Workers:
    • The rise of gig employment, one of the fastest-growing worker communities in India, poses significant challenges as gig workers are highly susceptible to heat-related hazards.
    • This segment, encompassing ride-hailing drivers, delivery personnel, and service providers, constitutes a substantial portion of India’s workforce and is projected to grow significantly by 2030.
  • Sectoral Impact:
    • Agriculture:
      • Globally, agriculture is the most heat-susceptible sector, particularly in the developing world.
      • In India, a significant portion of the workforce is engaged in agriculture and allied activities, with informal laborers facing heightened vulnerability due to limited weather protection and diminishing resources.
    • MSME Sector:
      • India’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector, employing over 123 million workers, is highly vulnerable to heat hazards due to widespread informalization and lack of oversight by Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) departments.
    • Construction Industry:
      • With approximately 70 million workers, the construction sector is confronted with challenges such as the urban heat island effect and increased susceptibility to physical injuries and air pollution-related health hazards.
    • Call for Action:
      • The informalization of the workforce, inadequate access to modern technology, and lack of resources hinder adaptation efforts in sectors like agriculture.
      • Many communities have resorted to adjusting work timings and implementing measures such as hydration points and rest shelters to cope with heat stress.
      • The ILO advocates for enhanced protections and investments in worker safety, urging governments and industries to prioritize climate resilience measures.
    • Existing Laws Regulating Workplace Safety:
      • In India, workplace safety is governed by more than 13 central laws, including the Factories Act, 1948, the Workmen Compensation Act, 1923, and the Building and Other Construction Workers Act, 1996, among others.
      • These laws aim to regulate working conditions across various sectors and ensure the safety and health of workers.
      • Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020:
        • The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 (OSH Code, 2020) consolidated and amended several existing laws related to workplace safety.
        • However, its enforcement is pending official notification by the Union government, leading to reliance on older laws for seeking redress and accountability.
      • Coverage and Registration Under Factories Act:
        • The Factories Act defines a factory as an enterprise with “10 or more” workers, yet only a fraction of India’s MSMEs are registered under this law.
        • The majority of the 64 million MSMEs in India operate outside the purview of governmental inspections due to non-registration.
      • Regulations on Heat Hazards:
        • The Factories Act broadly defines “ventilation and temperature,” leaving it to the States to set standards based on specific industries.
        • However, these regulations were framed decades ago and lack provisions for modern cooling alternatives like air conditioning.
        • There is a need to update these regulations to incorporate technological advancements and address the increasing prevalence of heat stress in workplaces.
        • Need for Updated Standards:
          • Current regulations lack a breakdown of thermal comfort based on activity levels and do not account for air conditioning or other cooling methods.
          • Countries like Brazil have already implemented stringent regulations based on Wet Bulb Global Temperature (WBGT), highlighting the importance of updating standards to ensure worker safety in the face of climate change.
        • Challenges in Implementing Occupational Safety Laws:
          • Despite attempts made in the OSH 2020 Code to address safety concerns, legal experts raise issues regarding the efficacy of online inspections, alleging corruption within OSH departments and bribery of inspectors by companies.
          • They argue that shifting inspections to digital platforms could further weaken oversight, especially with the introduction of “randomized” inspections and the change in inspector nomenclature to “facilitator,” which reduces bureaucratic prosecutorial powers and prioritizes ease of doing business over safety.
        • Environmental Hazards and Byproduct Disposal:
          • Efforts to tackle climate-related hazards should also address the handling and disposal of effluents and byproducts, as they can pose significant health risks based on temperature.
          • The case of Hindustan Unilever’s thermometer manufacturing plant in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, serves as a stark example, where mercury-laced waste disposal led to widespread health issues in the community, including birth defects and cancer.
          • Legal proceedings against the company highlight the need for collective redress mechanisms for workers affected by institutional negligence or failure, as existing laws may be insufficient to address such complex issues.
          • Legal Challenges and Collective Redress:
            • While the Workmen’s Compensation Act, 1923, remains effective for individual physical injuries, it lacks provisions for collective redress for workers affected by systemic issues such as inadequate provision of thermal comfort in manufacturing units.
            • Legal experts emphasize the need for comprehensive legal frameworks to address broader health and safety concerns in workplaces, especially in the face of climate-related challenges.
          • Rising Threat of Silicosis:
            • Silicosis, a fatal pulmonary disease caused by exposure to fine particulate matter in mines and quarries, poses a significant occupational health risk, especially as India ramps up coal production and expands mining operations.
            • A notable case in Gujarat highlighted the plight of migrant laborers who are often subjected to hazardous working conditions and inadequate protection measures.
            • Despite court orders and existing regulations, enforcement of laws to prevent silica exposure remains lacking, leading to preventable deaths and insufficient compensation for affected families.
            • Enforcement Challenges and Insufficient Regulations:
              • Inspectors under the Factories Act are tasked with enforcing safety measures to protect workers from silica exposure, but vacancies, lack of training, and influence from private sector management hinder effective oversight.
              • Regulations addressing silica exposure in stone quarries and mines are outdated and fail to mandate the use of modern dust elimination technologies.
              • While climate change exacerbates working conditions, regulatory changes and departmental sensitization are needed to ensure compliance with safety protocols and amendments to relevant laws, such as the Buildings and Construction Workers Act.
            • Addressing Climate-Related Occupational Risks:
              • The connection between labor productivity, human health, and climate change is often overlooked, with a focus on economic and infrastructure resilience.
              • However, the International Labour Organization emphasizes the importance of establishing a universally accepted regulatory framework to climate-proof work and protect workers from evolving occupational hazards.

About the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 (OSH Code, 2020)

  • The OSH Code, 2020 is a comprehensive legislation enacted by the Parliament of India to consolidate and amend the laws regulating occupational safety, health, and working conditions of persons employed in various establishments.
    • It replaces 13 existing central labor laws, including the Factories Act, 1948, Mines Act, 1952, and Contract Labor Act, 1970, among others.
    • The Code aims to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of workers employed in diverse sectors like industry, trade, business, manufacturing, factories, motor transport, construction, and more.
  • Key Provisions
    • Applicability:
      • The Code applies to establishments with 20 or more workers using power, and 40 or more workers without power aid.
      • It does not apply to government offices, but covers contract labor employed through contractors.
    • Registration:
      • Establishments covered by the Code are required to register electronically with the registering officers appointed by the central or state governments.
    • Advisory Boards:
      • The Code provides for the constitution of a National Occupational Safety and Health Advisory Board and similar state-level boards to advise the governments on policy and implementation.
    • Safety Committees:
      • Larger establishments like factories, mines, and construction sites are required to constitute safety committees with representatives from employers and workers.
    • Duties of Employers:
      • Employers are required to ensure a safe and hazard-free workplace, comply with the Code’s provisions, and appoint safety officers as prescribed.
    • Migrant Workers:
      • The Code provides for the welfare and social security of migrant workers, including a toll-free helpline and protection from abuse and exploitation.
    • Implementation Status
      • The OSH Code, 2020 was passed by the Parliament in September 2020 and received the President’s assent, but the date of its coming into force is yet to be notified.
      • Once implemented, the Code will subsume and replace the existing 13 central labor laws related to occupational safety, health, and working conditions.

India one of key geographies affected by phishing attacks

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

Verizon Business, a provider of cybersecurity solutions, highlights India’s vulnerability to phishing attacks, where employees often fall prey to malicious links or attachments posing as legitimate sources.

  • These incidents frequently result in substantial financial losses for organizations.

Key Highlights

  • Improvements in Reporting Practices:
    • Despite the prevalence of phishing attacks, there is a positive trend in reporting practices in India.
    • Approximately 20% of users now identify and report phishing attempts during simulation tests, indicating progress in addressing cybersecurity threats.
    • However, this is considered only the initial step towards enhancing cybersecurity measures.
  • Espionage Attacks Dominate APAC:
    • Verizon Business’s 2024 Data Breach Investigations Report underscores the dominance of espionage attacks in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, including India.
    • About 25% of cyberattacks in APAC are motivated by espionage, a significantly higher proportion compared to Europe and North America.
    • Vulnerability exploitation in the region has experienced a notable 180% growth.
  • Key Findings of the Report:
    • The report, based on the analysis of 30,458 security incidents and 10,626 confirmed breaches in 2023, reveals that system intrusion, social engineering, and basic web application attacks account for 95% of breaches in APAC.
    • The most compromised data types include credentials, internal information, and secrets, underscoring the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures in the region.
  • Challenges in Vulnerability Patching:
    • Organizations in APAC face challenges in promptly addressing critical vulnerabilities, with an average of 55 days taken to patch 50% of such vulnerabilities.
    • Moreover, the involvement of non-malicious human errors in over two-thirds of breaches highlights the importance of addressing internal cybersecurity awareness and training.

What is phishing attack?

  • A phishing attack is a type of cyber-attack in which attackers use deceptive techniques to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal data.
  • Phishing attacks typically involve sending fraudulent emails, messages, or websites that appear to be from legitimate sources, such as banks, social media platforms, or government agencies.
  • These phishing emails or messages often contain urgent or enticing requests, such as claiming that the recipient’s account has been compromised and needs immediate attention, or offering a prize or reward in exchange for personal information.
  • The goal is to manipulate the recipient into clicking on a malicious link, downloading an attachment containing malware, or entering their sensitive information into a fake website designed to mimic a legitimate one.

The Question of Article 31C

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Indian Express

Article 31C of the Indian Constitution was introduced by the Constitution (Twenty-fifth) Amendment Act, 1971.

  • It aimed to address issues arising from a Supreme Court decision regarding the acquisition of commercial banks by the government through The Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertakings) Act, 1969.

Key Highlights

  • Purpose of Article 31C:
    • The introduction of Article 31C sought to overcome legal obstacles hindering the implementation of directive principles of state policy, particularly those outlined in Article 39(b) and Article 39(c).
    • These principles aimed to ensure the equitable distribution of material resources for the common good and prevent the concentration of wealth to the common detriment.
  • Background Leading to its Introduction:
    • The need for Article 31C arose from a judicial interpretation in the Bank Nationalisation Case (RustomCavasjee Cooper vs Union Of India, 1970).
    • In this case, the Supreme Court invalidated the Banking Companies Act of 1969, citing concerns regarding the adequacy of compensation for acquired properties.
    • This decision prompted the government to introduce measures to uphold directive principles effectively.
  • Key Provisions of Article 31C:
    • Article 31C states that laws enacted to enforce the principles specified in Article 39(b) and Article 39(c) shall not be considered void on grounds of inconsistency with or infringement upon rights guaranteed under Article 14 (right to equality), Article 19 (freedom of speech and expression, right to assemble peacefully), or Article 31 (right to property).
    • Additionally, laws containing a declaration for implementing these principles cannot be challenged in court on the grounds of non-compliance.
  • Introduction to Article 31C’s Journey:
    • Article 31C of the Indian Constitution has undergone a complex legal journey, marked by constitutional amendments and judicial interpretations.
    • Challenges in Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973):
      • The 25th amendment, which introduced Article 31C, faced legal scrutiny in the landmark KesavanandaBharati case (1973).
      • In this case, the Supreme Court held that the Constitution has a “basic structure” that cannot be altered, even through constitutional amendments.
      • As a result, the court struck down a portion of Article 31C, allowing for the examination of laws enacted to further directive principles under Articles 39(b) and 39(c).
    • Expansion of Article 31C through the 42nd Amendment (1976):
      • In response to the KesavanandaBharati verdict, Parliament enacted the 42nd Amendment Act, which expanded the protection of Article 31C to encompass all directive principles outlined in Part IV of the Constitution.
      • This move aimed to prioritize directive principles over fundamental rights to facilitate socio-economic reforms.
    • Legal Challenge in Minerva Mills Case (1980):
      • The validity of the 42nd Amendment and the expanded protection of Article 31C faced scrutiny in the Minerva Mills case (1980).
      • The Supreme Court, in a landmark judgment, struck down clauses 4 and 5 of the amendment, asserting that Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution was not absolute and could not be used to grant itself unlimited authority.
      • The ruling in the Minerva Mills case raised questions about the status of Article 31C.
      • Did the court’s decision effectively nullify Article 31C, or did it restore the pre-amendment position where only certain directive principles were protected?
      • This conundrum underscores the need for the apex court to clarify the legal status and scope of Article 31C in the Indian constitutional framework.
    • Current Challenge to Article 31C:
      • The recent questioning of Article 31C’s existence arises from a case before a nine-judge Bench of the Supreme Court concerning the government’s authority to acquire and redistribute private property.
      • The court is deliberating whether Article 31C remains valid and how it relates to issues surrounding private property rights.