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CURRENT AFFAIRS – 09/10/2023

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 09/10/2023

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 09/10/2023

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  1. CURRENT AFFAIRS – 09/10/2023

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 09/10/2023

ISRO to begin unmanned flight tests for Gaganyaan

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : TH

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for unmanned flight tests as part of its Gaganyaan mission, which aims to send astronauts to space.

  • Specifically, ISRO is preparing for the Flight Test Vehicle Abort Mission-1 (TV-D1), a critical component of the mission.

 

Key Highlights

  • Crew Escape System and Crew Module
    • The TV-D1 mission focuses on testing the Crew Escape System (CES), which is crucial for the safety of astronauts.
    • The Crew Module (CM), where astronauts are housed during the mission, is also a significant part of TV-D1.
  • Development and Testing
    • The unpressurized version of the CM for TV-D1 has completed integration and testing and is ready to be shipped to the launch complex.
    • This version mimics the actual Gaganyaan CM in terms of size and mass.
    • It includes all the necessary systems for deceleration and recovery, such as parachutes, recovery aids, actuation systems, and pyrotechnics.
    • The avionics systems in the CM are configured for redundancy to ensure safe navigation, telemetry, instrumentation, and power.
  • Abort Simulation and Recovery
    • TV-D1 involves a test vehicle, a single-stage liquid rocket, developed for the abort mission.
    • It simulates an abort condition during the ascent trajectory of the Gaganyaan mission, corresponding to a Mach number of 1.2.
    • During the test, the CES and CM are separated from the test vehicle at an altitude of about 17 km.
    • The abort sequence is executed autonomously, including parachute deployment, leading to the safe touchdown of the CM in the Bay of Bengal, about 10 km from the coast of Sriharikota.
  • Significance and Future Milestones
    • The success of TV-D1 is a significant milestone for the Gaganyaan program, as it represents a near-complete integration of the system for a flight test.
    • The results of this test flight will pave the way for further qualification tests and unmanned missions, ultimately leading to the first Gaganyaan mission with Indian astronauts.
  • Gaganyaan Mission Objectives
    • The Gaganyaan mission aims to demonstrate India’s capability to launch three crew members into low Earth orbit and safely bring them back to Earth, with potential landing sites in the Bay of Bengal or the Arabian Sea.
  • Astronaut Training
    • Four astronauts selected for the Gaganyaan mission are undergoing comprehensive crew training and mission-specific training at the Astronaut Training Facility in Bengaluru.

In Image: Gaganyaan Mission’s Flight Test Vehicle Abort Mission-1 (TV-D1)

About Gaganyaan Mission: India’s Ambitious Manned Space Mission

  • The Gaganyaan mission is India’s ambitious project aimed at sending Indian astronauts, or vyomanauts, into space.
  • It marks India’s foray into manned space exploration and is a significant milestone for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
  • Objectives:
    • Human Spaceflight: To demonstrate India’s capability to send humans into space and return them safely to Earth.
    • Technological Advancement: To develop and demonstrate key technologies required for human spaceflight, including life support systems, crew module, and orbital rendezvous.
  • Key Features:
    • Crew Size:
      • The mission aims to carry a crew of three astronauts (vyomanauts) into low Earth orbit.
    • Duration:
      • The planned duration of the mission is around seven days, during which astronauts will conduct experiments and research in microgravity conditions.
    • Launch Vehicle:
      • The Gaganyaan spacecraft will be launched atop the GSLV Mk III (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III), India’s heaviest and most powerful launch vehicle.
    • Orbit:
      • The spacecraft will be placed in a low Earth orbit at an altitude of approximately 300 km to 400 km.
    • Recovery:
      • After completing the mission objectives, the spacecraft will re-enter Earth’s atmosphere and land in either the Bay of Bengal or the Arabian Sea.

Ganga-Ghagra basin canals pose a threat to dolphins: study

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : TH

Scientists and researchers conducted rescue operations to save Gangetic river dolphins from the irrigation canals of the Ganga-Ghagra basin in Uttar Pradesh.

  • Between 2013 and 2020, a total of 19 Gangetic river dolphins were successfully rescued from these canals.
  • During this period, 24 rescue operations were carried out, resulting in five dolphin fatalities.

 

Key Highlights

  • Of the rescued dolphins, 14 were identified as females, and 10 were males.
  • Challenges and Habitat Threats:
    • Dams and barrages in the region had a significant impact on the habitat of Gangetic river dolphins.
    • These dolphins moved into irrigation canals due to habitat disruptions, exposing them to risks like rapidly receding waters, heatstroke, and human interference.
    • Over 70% of entrapments occurred post-monsoon or during peak winter, often linked to canal discharge after monsoon rains.
    • Larger animals and pregnant females ventured into the canal system to find an easier prey base.
  • Conservation Status:
    • The Gangetic river dolphin is listed as an endangered species and is considered the national aquatic animal of India.
    • It is also listed in Schedule 1 of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, Appendix 1 of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), and Appendix 1 of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS).
    • The species is not known to be gregarious but was observed in small groups, suggesting they may hunt or live together at times.
  • Need for Timely Information and Expertise:
    • Rescuing dolphins requires expertise, and ensuring their survival after rescue poses challenges.
    • From 2013 to 2023, 28 dolphins were rescued in the Gangetic basin.
    • Monitoring and addressing this issue across the vast Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna delta region and canal systems remains a significant challenge.
  • International Recognition and Recommendations:
    • In 2016, the International Whaling Commission’s (IWC) scientific committee recognized the need for coordinated action to protect Gangetic and Indus river dolphins.
    • The IWC established the Asian River Dolphin Task Team (AR‐TT) in 2017 to address the protection of these species.
    • The paper recommends a focused study on canal entrapment and suggests using sonic devices or ‘pingers’ at barrages in the Ghaghara subbasin to deter dolphins, with potential expansion to other areas.

 

About Gangetic River Dolphins

  • Gangetic river dolphins, also known as the South Asian river dolphins or Susu, are a species of freshwater dolphins found in the rivers of South Asia.
  • They are one of the four existing species of river dolphins in the world and are native to the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu river systems in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal.
  • These dolphins have a distinctive long, slender snout, lack a pronounced beak, and possess sharp, conical teeth.
  • Their eyes lack a lens, so they are essentially blind, relying heavily on echolocation to navigate and find prey.
  • Adult Gangetic river dolphins are usually grayish-brown in color and can grow up to 2.5 to 2.8 meters in length.
  • Habitat and Distribution:
    • Gangetic river dolphins inhabit freshwater river systems with a strong current and deep pools.
    • They are primarily found in the mainstream of large rivers and their tributaries.
    • The Ganges River in India and the Brahmaputra River in Bangladesh are important habitats for these dolphins.
  • Conservation Status:
    • Gangetic river dolphins are classified as an endangered species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
    • They are also protected under various national and international regulations, including Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), and Appendix I of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS).
    • Conservation efforts are aimed at protecting their habitats, reducing threats such as water pollution and habitat degradation, and promoting public awareness about their conservation.
  • Significance:
    • Gangetic river dolphins are considered the national aquatic animal of India.
    • They hold cultural and ecological significance in the regions where they are found.
    • Studying and conserving these dolphins is essential not only for their survival but also for maintaining the health of river ecosystems in South Asia.

How the Digital India Act will shape the future of the country’s cyber landscape?

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : TH

India is undertaking efforts to update its legal framework to adapt to the evolving digital landscape.

  • The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) has announced the Digital India Act 2023 (DIA).
  • The DIA aims to replace the Information Technology Act of 2000 (IT Act) and address the challenges and opportunities brought about by the digital revolution.

 

Key Highlights

  • Updating Regulatory Framework
    • The DIA reflects a proactive approach to regulating and shaping India’s digital future.
    • The IT Act of 2000, created in a time when the internet was in its infancy, has struggled to keep pace with rapid technological advancements.
    • India’s internet user base has grown from 5.5 million to 850 million, leading to changes in internet usage patterns and the emergence of new forms of user harm.
    • The DIA seeks to provide a comprehensive legal framework to address these challenges.
  • Adapting to Changing Internet Landscape
    • The DIA recognizes the transformation in technology and user behavior.
    • It addresses issues related to intermediaries and tackles new forms of user harm like cyberstalking, trolling, and doxing.
    • The legislation is designed to align India’s regulatory landscape with the digital revolution of the 21st century.
  • Significance of DIA
    • The DIA is essential for regulating India’s burgeoning digital ecosystem.
    • It replaces the outdated IT Act, ensuring that the legal framework keeps up with technological advancements.
    • The Act is in line with India’s ‘Digital India’ initiative, emphasizing the need for a future-ready legal framework to support digital growth.
  • Key Provisions of the Digital India Act 2023 (DIA)
    • Emphasis on Online Safety and Trust
      • DIA prioritizes online safety and aims to safeguard citizens’ rights in the digital realm.
      • The legislation remains adaptable to changing market dynamics and international legal principles.
    • Responsible Use of New-Age Technologies
      • DIA provides guidelines for responsible utilization of technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain.
      • Encourages the adoption of these technologies while ensuring ethical and legal compliance.
      • Promotes ethical AI practices, data privacy in blockchain, and mechanisms for technology accountability.
    • Support for an Open Internet
      • DIA upholds the concept of an open internet, balancing accessibility with necessary regulations.
      • Mandates stringent Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements for wearable devices and includes criminal law sanctions.
    • Review of “Safe Harbour” Principle
      • The legislation contemplates a review of the “safe harbour” principle, which shields online platforms from liability related to user-generated content.
      • Indicates a potential shift in online accountability standards.
    • Challenges and Concerns
      • Impact on Innovation and Ease of Doing Business
      • Stricter regulations, especially in emerging technologies, could discourage entrepreneurial initiatives and foreign investments.
      • Reviewing the “safe harbour” principle might make online platforms more cautious, potentially affecting freedom of expression.
      • Effective enforcement of the DIA would require substantial resources, expertise, and infrastructure.
      • Balancing the interests of various stakeholders, including tech giants, while protecting citizen rights poses a significant challenge.

 

About Information Technology Act of 2000 (IT Act)

  • The act was enacted in the year 2000.
  • The primary aim of the IT Act is to give legal recognition to electronic transactions and facilitate e-governance.
  • It provides a framework for regulating various aspects of the digital realm, including electronic records, digital signatures, and cybersecurity.
  • The IT Act introduced the concept of digital signatures and recognized them as legally valid for online transactions.
  • It established the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) to regulate digital signatures and certificates.
  • The Act includes provisions for the protection of sensitive personal data and information and prescribes penalties for unauthorized access and data breaches.
  • It defines various cybercrimes such as hacking, identity theft, and the spread of malicious software, and imposes penalties for these offenses.
  • The IT Act has been amended multiple times to address emerging cybersecurity challenges and align with international best practices.
  • It plays a crucial role in governing electronic commerce, ensuring secure online transactions, and promoting the use of digital technology in India.
  • The Act empowers law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cybercrimes, enhancing the country’s cybersecurity framework.

IAF Chief unveils new Ensign as the force marks 91st anniversary

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : TH

On its 91st anniversary, the Indian Air Force (IAF) unveiled a new ensign, featuring the Air Force Crest in the top right corner.

  • The Air Force Day parade took place at Air Force Station Bamrauli in Prayagraj.
  • The theme for this year’s Air Force Day was ‘IAF – Air Power Beyond Boundaries,’ emphasizing the global reach and importance of air power.

 

Key Highlights

  • Historic Firsts at the Parade
    • GP Capt. ShalizaDhami, the first woman officer to command a combat unit, commanded the Air Force Day Parade.
    • The parade featured an all-women contingent called Agniveer Vayu women.
  • New Ensign Reflecting IAF Values
    • The new IAF ensign was created to better reflect the values of the force.
    • The previous ensign featured the Union Jack and the RIAF roundel but was replaced post-independence.
    • The new ensign includes the national symbol, the Ashoka lion, with the words ‘SatyamevaJayate’ in Devanagari below it.
    • Below the Ashoka lion, a Himalayan eagle with spread wings signifies the fighting qualities of the IAF.
    • A light blue ring encircles the eagle, with the words ‘Bharatiya Vayu Sena’ and the IAF motto in golden Devanagari below it.

In Image: new Ensign of the Indian Air Force

Strong earthquakes shook western Afghanistan

(General Studies- Paper I)

Source : TH

A powerful magnitude-6.3 earthquake and strong aftershocks hit western Afghanistan, causing significant casualties and destruction.

  • The Taliban spokesman initially reported a death toll of 2,000 people.
  • The United Nations provided preliminary figures, initially stating 320 dead but later indicating that the number was still being verified.
  • The epicenter of the earthquake was approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) northwest of Herat city.
  • The quake was followed by multiple aftershocks, including three with magnitudes of 6.3, 5.9, and 5.5, along with smaller tremors.

 

About Earthquakes

  • Earthquakes are natural geological phenomena characterized by the sudden release of energy in the Earth’s crust, leading to the generation of seismic waves.
  • These seismic waves can result in ground shaking, causing damage to structures and landscapes.
  • Causes:
    • Earthquakes primarily occur due to the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface.
    • The interaction of these plates along faults can lead to stress buildup and eventual rupture, causing an earthquake.
  • Magnitude:
    • Earthquakes are measured on the Richter scale or the moment magnitude scale (Mw).
    • Magnitude indicates the energy released during an earthquake.
    • The higher the magnitude, the more powerful the earthquake.
  • Aftershocks:
    • Following a main earthquake event, there can be smaller seismic events known as aftershocks.
    • These aftershocks can continue for days, weeks, or even months after the initial quake.
  • Tsunamis:
    • Underwater earthquakes, especially those near tectonic plate boundaries, can lead to the generation of tsunamis—large, destructive ocean waves capable of causing extensive coastal damage.
  • Seismology:
    • The study of earthquakes and seismic waves is known as seismology.
    • Seismologists use seismometers and seismographs to detect and measure earthquakes, aiding in research and monitoring efforts.
  • Global Distribution:
    • Earthquakes occur worldwide, but they are more frequent and severe along tectonic plate boundaries, known as the “Ring of Fire” encircling the Pacific Ocean.

What was the Yom Kippur war?

(General Studies- Paper II and III)

Source : The Indian Express

The surprise attack by Hamas on Israel has led to comparisons with the Yom Kippur War, which occurred 50 years ago.

  • These comparisons highlight significant similarities between the two conflicts and raise questions about Israel’s preparedness.

 

Key Highlights

  • Yom Kippur War Overview and Current Scenario:
    • The Yom Kippur War, also known as the October War, began in 1973 when a coalition of Arab states, primarily Egypt and Syria, launched a surprise attack on Israel during the Yom Kippur holiday.
    • The current attack by Hamas is considered the deadliest on Israel since the Yom Kippur War.
    • Hamas gunmen carried out a rampage in Israeli towns, resulting in the deaths of at least 400 Israelis and the abduction of civilians.
    • Israeli strikes in retaliation have killed at least 313 Palestinians.
    • In the Yom Kippur War, more than 2,500 Israeli soldiers were killed.
  • Unpreparedness of Israel:
    • Both conflicts saw criticism within Israel for being caught unprepared.
    • Despite advanced intelligence and interception systems, the recent attack took Israel by surprise.
    • Similarly, the Yom Kippur War found Israel unprepared, with many soldiers on leave due to the observance of Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism.
  • Symbolic Timing:
    • The Yom Kippur War began during the observance of Yom Kippur, and the recent attack occurred as Israelis were preparing to observe Simchat Torah, a significant religious holiday.
    • Simchat Torah marks the end of the annual cycle of public Torah readings and the start of a new one, adding symbolism to the comparison.
  • Yom Kippur War
    • The Yom Kippur War, also known as the October War or Ramadan War, took place from October 6 to 25, 1973.
    • It was a conflict between Israel, Egypt, and Syria, and is considered the Fourth Arab-Israeli war, following wars in 1949, 1956, and 1967.
  • Background
    • After its decisive victory in the Six-Day War of 1967, Israel appeared invincible and had gained territory from its neighbors, including the Golan Heights from Syria and the Sinai Peninsula from Egypt.
    • Six years later, Egypt and Syria coordinated an attack on Israel, catching it by surprise during the Holy Islamic month of Ramadan.
    • Israel initially struggled to mobilize its troops as many were on leave for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism.
  • Course of the War
    • Initially, both Egypt and Syria made some territorial gains.
    • Israel eventually stemmed the advances and launched counterstrikes.
    • The U.S. and Soviet Union supported Israel and Egypt-Syria respectively, escalating superpower tensions.
  • Ceasefires and Impact
    • The first UN-brokered ceasefire on October 22 did not hold, but a lasting ceasefire was achieved by October 25.
    • The war had a significant impact because it revealed Israel’s vulnerability and resulted in heavy casualties.
    • Prime Minister Golda Meir and her cabinet resigned six months after the war.
  • Significance of the Yom Kippur War
    • The Yom Kippur War was a game-changer despite Israel’s eventual victory because it showed that Israel could be battered, if not defeated, in battle.
    • Egypt’s strategy was not necessarily to defeat Israel but to bring it to the negotiating table.
    • The war led to a peace process, resulting in the 1978 Camp David Accords, with Israel returning the Sinai Peninsula to Egypt.
    • The 1979 Egyptian-Israeli peace treaty marked the first Arab recognition of Israel as a state.
    • However, the war did not yield positive outcomes for Syria, as Israel continued to occupy the strategically important Golan Heights.

 

A brief chronology of major conflicts between Israel and Arab countries

  • 1948 Arab-Israeli War (First Arab-Israeli War or War of Independence):
    • Duration: 1947-1949
    • Main Opponents: Israel vs. Arab states (Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, and others)
    • Outcome: Israel declared independence in 1948, and this war resulted in significant territorial changes and displacement of Palestinians.
  • Suez Crisis (Suez War or Suez War of 1956):
    • Duration: October-November 1956
    • Main Opponents: Israel, France, and the United Kingdom vs. Egypt
    • Outcome: The crisis ended with a ceasefire, and Israel withdrew from the Sinai Peninsula, while international peacekeepers were deployed in the region.
  • Six-Day War (June 1967 War):
    • Duration: June 5-10, 1967
    • Main Opponents: Israel vs. Egypt, Jordan, and Syria
    • Outcome: Israel achieved a swift and decisive victory, gaining control over the Sinai Peninsula, West Bank, Gaza Strip, Golan Heights, and East Jerusalem.
  • Yom Kippur War (October 1973 War or Ramadan War):
    • Duration: October 6-25, 1973
    • Main Opponents: Israel vs. Egypt and Syria
    • Outcome: While Israel eventually repelled the attacks, this war revealed its vulnerability and led to peace negotiations.
  • Lebanon War (First Lebanon War or Operation Peace for Galilee):
    • Duration: June 1982-September 1982
    • Main Opponents: Israel vs. Palestinian groups and the Lebanese Shiite militia Hezbollah, along with Syrian forces.
    • Outcome: Israel’s invasion of Lebanon aimed to expel the PLO but resulted in a protracted conflict with Hezbollah and significant international criticism.
  • First Intifada (Palestinian Uprising):
    • Duration: Late 1987-1993
    • Main Opponents: Palestinian civilians vs. Israeli forces
    • Outcome: Marked the beginning of Palestinian uprisings against Israeli occupation and led to peace negotiations in the early 1990s.
  • Oslo Accords (Declaration of Principles):
    • Signed in 1993, a significant step towards Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations.
  • Second Intifada (Al-Aqsa Intifada):
    • Duration: September 2000-2005
    • Main Opponents: Palestinian civilians vs. Israeli forces
    • Outcome: A period of intensified violence and conflict, leading to more deaths and suffering.
  • Lebanon War (Second Lebanon War):
    • Duration: July 2006-August 2006
    • Main Opponents: Israel vs. Hezbollah
    • Outcome: Ended in a ceasefire, with no clear victory, but extensive damage and casualties.
  • Gaza Conflicts (Operation Cast Lead, Operation Pillar of Defense, Operation Protective Edge):
    • Series of conflicts between Israel and Palestinian groups in the Gaza Strip, occurring in 2008-2009, 2012, and 2014.
    • Resulted in significant destruction and loss of life, with ceasefires in between.