CURRENT AFFAIRS - 07/12/2023

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CURRENT AFFAIRS – 07/12/2023

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 07/12/2023

India’s CO2 emissions likely to register biggest rise for second year

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Indian Express

The annual study by the Global Carbon Project reveals that, for the second consecutive year, India is poised to experience the most substantial growth in carbon dioxide emissions among major economies.

Key Highlights

The study suggests a 50% chance that the world could consistently breach the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold within the next seven years if current emission trends persist.
Daily or weekly breaches are already occurring, and at least one annual breach is highly likely within the next five years.
India’s Emission Growth Rate:
- India is expected to witness an 8.2% rise in annual CO2 emissions for 2023, more than double the projected increase in China, which is forecasted to experience a 4% growth.
- Last year, India’s emissions increased by 6%, while China saw a decline of 1%.
- India’s emission surge is attributed to a significant demand for power, with new renewable capacity falling short of meeting the escalating demand.
- The study highlights that India’s CO2 emissions have surpassed those of the European Union since 2022.
China’s Emission Dynamics:
- China, contributing 31% of global CO2 emissions, is projected to see a notable increase in emissions in 2023.
- Although China’s growth rate is lower than India’s, its absolute emission increase is expected to be much higher due to its larger emissions base.
Emission Projections and Contributions:
- Global CO2 emissions are anticipated to reach a record 36.8 billion tonnes, a 1.1% increase from the previous year.
- India’s CO2 emissions are expected to be 233 million tonnes higher than the previous year, with coal-fired power plants contributing 176 million tonnes to this increase.
The study underscores the urgency of addressing current emission levels, as exceeding carbon budgets for limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius is projected within seven years.
The return to acceptable temperature thresholds after crossing these limits would necessitate extensive carbon dioxide removal efforts post-reaching global net-zero emissions.

What is ‘Global Carbon Project’?

The Global Carbon Project (GCP) is a scientific research initiative that focuses on the analysis of carbon cycle components and their role in the global climate system.
It was established in 2001 and is an international collaboration of scientists, research institutions, and organizations.
The primary goal of the Global Carbon Project is to provide comprehensive and up-to-date information on global carbon emissions, their sources, and their impact on the Earth’s climate.
The Global Carbon Project integrates knowledge of greenhouse gases for human activities and the Earth system.
The projects include global budgets for three dominant greenhouse gases — carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide — and complementary efforts in urban, regional, cumulative, and negative emissions.

Status of Carbon Dioxide in Global Warming

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a primary greenhouse gas responsible for the greenhouse effect, a natural phenomenon crucial for maintaining Earth’s temperature.
However, human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes, have significantly increased atmospheric CO2 concentrations.
Elevated CO2 levels enhance the greenhouse effect by trapping more heat in the Earth’s atmosphere.
This enhanced greenhouse effect contributes to global warming, leading to an increase in average global temperatures.
Over the past century, atmospheric CO2 concentrations have risen at an unprecedented rate due to human activities.
The pre-industrial concentration was around 280 parts per million (ppm), and it has now surpassed 400 ppm, reaching levels not seen in hundreds of thousands of years.
The increasing concentration of CO2 is a major driver of anthropogenic climate change.
It amplifies the greenhouse effect, leading to alterations in weather patterns, more frequent and severe heatwaves, changes in precipitation, and disruptions to ecosystems.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has established a direct correlation between the rise in atmospheric CO2 concentrations and the increase in global average temperatures.
- The link is evident in the observed temperature trends and is a critical factor in climate change projections.
CO2 has a relatively long atmospheric residence time, meaning that once emitted, it can persist in the atmosphere for centuries.
- This characteristic emphasizes the long-term impact of current and past emissions on the climate.

“Rizz” Chosen as Oxford Word of the Year for 2023

(General Studies- Paper I)

Source : The Indian Express

The Oxford Word of the Year for 2023 is “Rizz,” a term that might sound like a familiar name but is, in fact, a playful and unconventional abbreviation of “charisma.”

This choice reflects the evolving linguistic landscape influenced by the younger generation’s communication style.

Key Highlights

“Rizz” stands out due to its unique derivation, breaking away from the conventional practice of shortening words from the beginning or end.
In this case, the middle section of “charisma” is utilized to create a distinct and trendy term.
Cultural Relevance:
- The selection aims to capture the prevailing mood of the year, with “Rizz” embodying a sense of optimism, style, charm, and attractiveness.
- As the pandemic officially ended in May 2023, many felt a return to a more open and confident self after two years of pandemic-related concerns.
Gen Z Influence:
- The term “Rizz” reflects the influence of Generation Z on language and communication.
- It signifies a shift in how people express themselves and interact, particularly in the context of dating and relationships.
Definition of “Rizz”:
- “Rizz” is defined as “style, charm, or attractiveness; the ability to attract a romantic or sexual partner.”
- It encapsulates the changing dynamics of social interactions, particularly in the post-pandemic era.
The Oxford Word of the Year tradition, while seemingly lighthearted, plays a role in capturing the evolving nature of language.
Past selections, including unconventional terms and emojis, reflect the playful and dynamic nature of language evolution.

Third of India’s coastline vulnerable to erosion

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : Indian Express

Over one-third of India’s coastline is susceptible to erosion, according to Union Minister Ashwini Kumar Choubey.

The revelation is based on a study conducted by the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR), highlighting the significant impact on coastal areas.

Key Highlights

State-Wise Erosion Studies:
- The National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) conducted a state-wise study on beaches facing erosion.
- Among the findings, 35 out of 116 beaches in Andhra Pradesh, 22 out of 50 beaches in Goa, 21 out of 31 beaches in Maharashtra, 13 out of 22 beaches in Kerala, and 13 out of 18 beaches in Karnataka are vulnerable to erosion.
It was highlighted that 33.6% of the Indian coastline is prone to erosion, 26.9% is experiencing accretion (growth), and 39.6% is in a stable state.
The study indicates the combined impact of natural processes and human activities on the changing shoreline.
Adverse Effects on Livelihoods:
- The receding coastline has potential adverse effects on the livelihoods of fishing communities.
- Coastal erosion is recognized as a significant concern that requires attention to protect not only the environment but also the socio-economic well-being of coastal communities.
Coastal Regulation Measures:
- The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has implemented the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) notification, 2019.
- This regulation aims to conserve and protect coastal stretches and marine areas, ensuring livelihood security for fisher folk and local communities.
- The notification includes provisions for No Development Zones (NDZ) to safeguard coastlines.
Coastal Zone Management Plans:
- Chief Secretaries of coastal states and Union Territories have been urged to finalize the Coastal Zone Management Plan (CZMP), which includes mapping erosion-prone areas and preparing a shoreline management plan for identified eroding stretches.
- This initiative aligns with the efforts to mitigate coastal erosion and protect vulnerable areas.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change has delineated the hazard line for the entire coast of India.
This delineation assists in identifying areas prone to hazards, enabling the implementation of targeted coastal protection measures.
Coastal erosion mitigation measures have been initiated in specific locations, such as Puducherry and Chellanam in Kerala.
These measures involve technical support to coastal states for designing protection measures at vulnerable stretches and preparing shoreline management plans.

What is ‘coastal erosion and coastal accretion’?

Coastal Erosion:
- Coastal erosion refers to the gradual wearing away of the land and the removal of sediment by natural forces such as waves, wind, currents, and tides.
- It is a dynamic process that can be influenced by both natural factors and human activities.
- The key agents of coastal erosion include:
  - Waves: The energy from ocean waves can break down rocks and transport sediments along the shoreline.
  - Tides: The rise and fall of tides can contribute to the erosion of coastlines.
  - Storm Surges: Severe weather events, such as hurricanes or cyclones, can bring about intense storm surges that cause rapid and extensive erosion.
  - Human Activities: Certain human activities, such as construction, mining, and the alteration of natural coastal processes, can accelerate erosion.
- Coastal erosion can lead to the loss of land, damage to infrastructure, and changes in the shape of coastlines over time.
Coastal Accretion:
- Coastal accretion, on the other hand, is the opposite process.
- It involves the addition of sediments, typically through natural processes, resulting in the gradual buildup or extension of the coastline.
- Factors contributing to coastal accretion include:
  - Deposition of Sediments: Sediments can be transported and deposited by rivers, currents, and waves, contributing to the buildup of land along the coast.
  - Vegetation: Coastal vegetation, such as mangroves and salt marshes, can trap sediments and promote accretion.
  - Tidal and Riverine Processes: Tidal action and riverine processes can bring in sediments that accumulate along the shoreline.
Coastal accretion is important for maintaining and expanding land areas, providing habitat for various species, and acting as a natural buffer against the impacts of erosion.

114 seats, migrant quota cleared for J&K Assembly

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : TH

The Lok Sabha has approved the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023, and the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023.

The former bill aims to reserve seats in the upcoming 114-seat Jammu and Kashmir Assembly for “Kashmiri migrants, people displaced from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), and Scheduled Tribes.”

Key Highlights

Reorganisation Bill Details:
- The Lok Sabha has passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023.
- The bill increases the total seats in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly from 107 to 114, with nine seats reserved for Scheduled Tribes, marking the first-time inclusion of such reservations.
- The increase is based on the recommendations of the Delimitation Commission.
- The Lieutenant-Governor is empowered to nominate three members in the Assembly, including two from the Kashmiri migrant community (one being a woman) and the third representing people from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) who sought refuge in India after the wars with Pakistan in 1947, 1965, and 1971.
J&K Reservation Bill:
- The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023, aims to replace the term “weak and underprivileged classes (social castes)” in the J&K Reservation Act, 2004, with “other backward classes” as declared by the Union Territory.
- The 2004 Act pertains to reservations in appointments and admissions in professional institutions for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and other socially and educationally backward classes.

More about Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Bill

The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023, was presented in the Lok Sabha on July 26, 2023.
The Bill aims to amend the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, which facilitated the reorganisation of the state into the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir (with legislature) and Ladakh (without legislature).
Changes to Legislative Assembly Seats:
- The 2019 Act had amended the Second Schedule of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, specifying the total seats in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly as 83, with six reserved for Scheduled Castes and none for Scheduled Tribes.
- The Amendment Bill proposes an increase in the total seats to 90, reserving seven for Scheduled Castes and introducing nine reserved seats for Scheduled Tribes.
Nomination of Kashmiri Migrants:
- The Bill introduces provisions for the nomination of up to two members from the Kashmiri migrant community by the Lieutenant Governor to the Legislative Assembly.
- One of the nominated members must be a woman.
- The definition of migrants includes those who migrated from the Kashmir Valley or any part of Jammu and Kashmir after November 1, 1989, and are registered with the Relief Commissioner.
- It also encompasses individuals not registered due to various reasons, such as government service, work-related migration, or owning immovable property but unable to reside due to disturbed conditions.
Nomination of Displaced Persons:
- The Amendment Bill allows the Lieutenant Governor to nominate one member to the Legislative Assembly, representing displaced persons from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
- Displaced persons are defined as those who left or were displaced from their residence in Pakistani-occupied Jammu and Kashmir in 1947-48, 1965, or 1971 due to civil disturbances or the fear of such disturbances. This category includes successors-in-interest.

Navigating the U.S.-China relationship

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : TH

U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a summit on November 15 in San Francisco, their second meeting, on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) conference.

The primary objective was to address the strained bilateral relationship, which is currently at its lowest point since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1979.

Key Highlights

Consequential Outcome – Military Communications Restoration:
- The most significant accomplishment of the summit was the decision to restore military-to-military communications between the U.S. and China.
- The two nuclear-armed nations agreed to resume regular exchange of information under the Military Maritime Consultative Agreement that began in 1998.
- These channels had been closed following Nancy Pelosi’s controversial visit to Taiwan in August 2022, marking the first visit by a U.S. House Speaker in 25 years.
Background on Taiwan Issue:
- Taiwan’s status is a contentious point between the U.S. and China, with the latter aiming for reunification with the mainland.
- The U.S. follows the “one-China” policy, recognizing Beijing as the legitimate government and acknowledging, though not endorsing, Taiwan as part of China.
- The Taiwan Relations Act provides security guarantees, and President Biden has pledged intervention if China were to attack Taiwan.
Impact of Nancy Pelosi’s Visit to Taiwan:
- Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan in 2022 led to the closure of military communication channels.
- China condemned the visit as a serious violation of the status quo, with President Xi warning that the U.S. was “playing with fire.”
- China demonstrated its displeasure through missile launches off the Taiwan coast and military drills.
Recent Developments and U.S.-Taiwan Relations:
- House Speaker Kevin McCarthy received Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen in April in California, marking the highest-level American official meeting with the Taiwanese President on U.S. soil.
Current State of U.S.-China Trade Dispute
- S. Measures:
  - In June 2021, Biden blacklisted 59 Chinese defense and surveillance companies as part of the “Chinese military-industrial complex.”
  - This followed the Trump administration’s 2019 blacklisting of Chinese AI start-ups for alleged human rights abuses in Xinjiang.
  - In October 2022, the Biden administration imposed sweeping controls on exports of advanced computer chips for semiconductor production.
  - The restrictions prohibit U.S. and non-U.S. firms with American technology in their products from supplying hardware and software to specific Chinese companies.
  - Collaboration between American citizens/firms and Chinese chip makers is also restricted, except under special permission.
  - In August, Biden issued an executive order prohibiting U.S. investments in the high-tech sector.
- Chinese Countermeasures:
  - In response, China imposed a ban on gallium and germanium exports in July, critical raw materials for microchip and weapons production.
  - In October, export restrictions were placed on various types of graphite, a crucial mineral for electric vehicle batteries.
  - China enhanced anti-espionage and data protection laws in October, requiring firms to designate digital tools for China, establish China-specific email IDs, and operate country-exclusive servers.
- Future Outlook:
  - The U.S. and China are leveraging their strengths to inflict damage on each other, focusing on critical technologies.
  - President Biden’s approach reflects a slight dose of realism, emphasizing pragmatic avenues of coexistence rather than disengagement or ‘decoupling.’
  - The emphasis is on de-risking the two economies, signaling a subtle but significant shift that offers hope for a more cooperative approach in the short term.

The role of special inquiry committees of Parliament

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : TH

The Lok Sabha Ethics Committee is reported to have recommended the expulsion of Trinamool Congress MP MahuaMoitra from the Lok Sabha.

Allegations against her include “unethical conduct” and “breach of privileges,” with accusations of targeting a business house for cash and sharing log-in credentials with a businessman.

Key Highlights

Role of Ethics Committee:
- The Ethics Committee of the Lok Sabha was established in 2000 to oversee the moral and ethical conduct of members.
- It examines cases of “unethical conduct” referred to it, including complaints filed by members, outsiders through a member, or those referred by the Speaker.
- The Committee conducts a prima facie inquiry before deciding to examine a complaint and presents its report to the Speaker.
- The term “unethical” is not defined, leaving it to the Committee to determine whether an act is unethical or not.
- The Committee has the authority to recommend actions such as suspension based on its findings.
Example of ‘Unethical’ Conduct:
- In 2007, the Committee considered an incident where an MP accompanied his close female companion, impersonating her as his wife, as ‘unethical.’
- The Committee recommended the suspension of the MP from 30 sittings of the House.
Privileges Committees and Historical Context:
- Parliamentary privileges trace back to medieval Britain (14th-16th Century) to protect the interests of the House of Commons and its members.
- Privileges include the power of the House to punish its members and outsiders for breaches of privileges.
Role of Privileges Committees:
- Privileges committees or special inquiry committees handle more serious accusations against members.
- They have historically investigated cases such as promoting business interests through parliamentary actions and the infamous ‘cash for query’ scam in 2005, leading to the recommendation for expulsion of 10 Lok Sabha MPs.
Historical Precedent – Cash for Query Scam:
- In 2005, a special committee investigated the ‘cash for query’ scam, where 10 MPs of the Lok Sabha were implicated.
- The committee recommended their expulsion, emphasizing the seriousness of the accusations.
Constitutional Grounds for Vacation of Seat:
- Article 101 of the Constitution lists grounds for the vacation of a seat by a Member of Parliament (MP), including voluntary resignation, disqualification, and continuous absence from the House for 60 sittings.
- Expulsion is not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution.
- Conflicting Supreme Court Judgments:
  - In the case of Raja Ram Pal versus Hon’ble Speaker (2007), related to the ‘cash for query’ scam, the Supreme Court upheld Parliament’s power to expel members for breach of privilege by interpreting Article 101.
  - However, in Amarinder Singh versus Special Committee, Punjab Vidhan Sabha (2010), the Supreme Court held expulsion by a State Assembly as unconstitutional, expressing concerns about its impact on democratic representation.
- Reconciling Privileges and Democratic Representation:
  - Serious allegations, such as ‘cash for query,’ raise questions about whether expulsion is a proportionate punishment and whether it could leave citizens without representation until the next elections or a bye-election.
  - Balancing the preservation of House dignity with democratic representation is crucial in a modern democracy.
- Proposal for Fast Track Courts:
  - Given the nature of parliamentary committee proceedings and potential impact on democratic representation, it is suggested to set up fast-track courts for time-bound trials, possibly within 60 days.
  - If a member is convicted in such a trial, it would result in disqualification under the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

Garba of Gujarat makes it to UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list

(General Studies- Paper I)

Source : TH

On December 6, UNESCO included Gujarat’s traditional dance form ‘Garba’ in the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

This recognition marks the 15th cultural item from India to be included in the UNESCO list, with the last addition being Kolkata’s Durga Puja two years ago.

Key Highlights

UNESCO Statement:
- The Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, during its 18th session in Kasane, Botswana, inscribed ‘Garba of Gujarat’ on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
- The inclusion is made under the provisions of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Description of Garba:
- UNESCO describes ‘Garba’ as a ritualistic and devotional dance performed throughout the State of Gujarat and across India.
- It is celebrated for nine days during the festival of Navaratri, dedicated to the worship of feminine energy or Shakti.
- Garba is recognized as a cultural, performative, and visual expression of feminine energy.
- The dance is performed in various settings, including homes, temple courtyards, public spaces, villages, urban squares, streets, and large open grounds.

What is UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list?

The UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list is a compilation of cultural practices, traditions, knowledge, and skills that are considered intangible cultural heritage.
Intangible cultural heritage refers to the living expressions inherited from our ancestors and passed on to our descendants, including oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, festive events, knowledge, and skills concerning nature and the universe.
The primary purpose of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list is to recognize, safeguard, and promote the diversity of intangible cultural heritage worldwide.
The list is part of UNESCO’s efforts to protect and preserve cultural diversity and promote intercultural dialogue.
The two main categories within the Intangible Cultural Heritage list are:
- Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity:
  - This list includes cultural elements that are recognized as having outstanding cultural value and significance.
  - The inscription on this list aims to raise awareness about the importance of safeguarding these cultural practices and encouraging dialogue between communities, regions, and countries.
- List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding:
  - This list includes cultural elements that require immediate attention to ensure their viability and sustainability.
  - The inscription on this list is accompanied by specific safeguarding plans and measures to address the identified threats to the intangible cultural heritage.