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CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16/03/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS - 16/03/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16/03/2024

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  1. CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16/03/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 16/03/2024

Railways plans to develop multi-modal transport hubs

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

The Indian Railways is set to embark on a transformative journey with the creation of mega railway terminals in aspirational cities across the nation.

  • This initiative is aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ agenda, aiming to bolster infrastructure in cities boasting a population exceeding 10 lakh.

Key Highlights

  • Expansion Scope and Strategy
    • Official sources reveal that the Railway Board intends to extend this initiative beyond cities meeting the population criterion, potentially encompassing areas anticipating significant population growth.
    • Shirish Kumar Sinha, Additional Member (Planning), has solicited recommendations for new locations and stations, indicating a proactive approach towards inclusive development.

What is a multi-modal transport hub?

  • A multi-modal transport hub, also known as an intermodal or integrated transport hub, is a facility or location where different modes of transportation converge and connect seamlessly to facilitate the efficient movement of passengers and goods between various modes of transportation.
  • These hubs serve as vital nodes in transportation networks, enabling smoother interchanges between different modes of transport such as railways, roadways, airways, and waterways.
  • In addition to passenger transport, multi-modal transport hubs also facilitate the efficient handling and transfer of freight and cargo between different modes of transportation, improving logistics and supply chain management.
  • Economic Benefits:
    • Multi-modal transport hubs stimulate economic growth and development by improving connectivity, facilitating trade and commerce, attracting investments, and creating employment opportunities in surrounding areas.

Army raises first unit tooperate Apache attackhelicopters in Jodhpur

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

The Indian Army Aviation Corps has taken a significant step in enhancing its capabilities with the establishment of its first Apache attack helicopter unit at Jodhpur on March 15.

  • This development marks a crucial milestone as the Corps prepares to integrate the AH-64E Apache helicopters into its fleet, making them the second line of attack helicopters after the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter (LCH).

Key Highlights

  • Apache Induction Timeline and Procurement
    • The induction of the Apache helicopters is proceeding swiftly, with the Army set to receive the first batch of three helicopters in May, followed by another three in July.
    • India’s procurement of the Apaches stemmed from a deal signed with Boeing in February 2020, securing six helicopters for the Army at a cost of approximately $800 million.
    • Additionally, the agreement involved training six pilots and 24 technicians in the United States by Boeing.
  • Evolution of Army Aviation Capabilities
    • The establishment of the 451 Aviation Squadron at Jodhpur signals a significant shift in the Army Aviation’s operational landscape.
    • Traditionally focused on utility helicopters, the Corps ventured into dedicated attack capabilities with the induction of the LCH.
    • Notably, the first squadron, 351 Army Aviation, was relocated to Missamari, Assam, in November 2022, positioning it strategically near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Eastern sector.
  • Procurement Policy and Future Plans
    • India’s procurement policy for attack helicopters has evolved over time, with the Cabinet Committee sanctioning the acquisition of 39 AH-64 Apache helicopters from the United States.
    • While the Indian Air Force (IAF) initially inducted 22 Apaches under a 2015 deal, subsequent decisions have directed future procurements towards the Army.
    • Despite the Army’s request for 11 additional Apaches, a study commissioned by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) is underway to assess the overall requirement of armoured helicopters across the services.
  • LCH Procurement and Current Fleet Composition
    • In parallel with the Apache induction, the Defence Acquisition Council approved the procurement of 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) at an estimated cost of ₹45,000 crore.
    • This includes 90 for the Army and 66 for the Air Force, with ongoing induction of five LCH for the Army and ten for the IAF, in addition to 15 Limited Series Production LCH.
    • Alongside the LCH, the Army currently operates 75 Rudra helicopters, the armed version of the Advanced Light Helicopter, further augmenting its aerial firepower.

About the AH-64E Apache helicopters

  • The AH-64E Apache helicopters are the most advanced multi-role combat helicopters used by the U.S. Army and various global defense forces.
  • These helicopters have a proven track record, with over 1,280 aircraft in operation and more than five million flight hours, including 1.3 million hours in combat situations.
  • The AH-64E Apache is equipped with advanced technologies, such as the Modular Open Systems Architecture, making it a centerpiece in Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) for the foreseeable future.
  • It features night vision navigation capability, upgraded fire control radar, and the ability to be armed with a variety of weapons, including the Lockheed Martin’s joint-air-to-ground missile (JAGM) system, air-to-air missiles, and precision rockets.
  • The AH-64E Apache is powered by two turboshaft engines, providing a climb rate of 889m/min, maximum speeds of 279km/h, and a cruise speed of 260km/h.
  • Additionally, it has a ferry range of 1,900km, a service ceiling of 6,400m, and an endurance of three hours and nine minutes.
  • The AH-64E Apache helicopters are crucial assets that will continue to serve as the primary attack helicopters for the U.S. Army and partner nations well into the 2060s, with ongoing improvements and next-generation technologies ensuring their relevance and effectiveness on the battlefield.

India woos Tesla by slashing import duty on EVs to 15% from 70-100%

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

The Indian government unveiled a series of incentives aimed at attracting companies like Tesla to establish manufacturing plants within the country.

  • Among these measures, a notable announcement involves a significant reduction in import duties for electric vehicles (EVs) imported as completely built units (CBUs), from the prevailing 70% to 15%.

Key Highlights

  • Import Duty Reduction Criteria
    • To avail of the reduced import duty, EV manufacturers must adhere to specific pre-conditions outlined by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
    • These conditions include committing to a minimum investment of ₹4,150 crore (or $500 million) and initiating local manufacturing operations within a three-year timeframe.
    • Additionally, the manufacturer must achieve at least 25% domestic value addition within this period and escalate it to 50% within five years.
    • The reduced import duty of 15% would apply to completely built electric vehicles priced at a minimum value of $35,000 (approximately ₹29 lakh), encompassing costs related to insurance and freight charges.
    • Notably, this duty relief will remain effective for a duration of five years.
  • Import Limit and Carryover Provision
  • Under the new policy, a maximum of 8,000 vehicles per year can be imported by an EV firm, subject to the fulfillment of the specified criteria.
  • Moreover, companies will be permitted to carry over any unutilized annual import limit, providing flexibility in their import operations while adhering to the outlined regulations.
  • Limited Impact on Domestic Manufacturers
    • The impact on Indian manufacturers should be minimal, as the benefits apply only to EVs priced above $35,000.
    • This price range constitutes a small fraction, approximately 1.5%, of total passenger vehicle sales, translating to less than one lakh units.
    • Government’s objective is not to undermine the domestic market but to foster growth in the electric vehicle sector by attracting new players with advanced technology.
    • The aim is to stimulate the transition to electric vehicles while fostering competition within the industry.
    • The government expects that this move will incentivize domestic manufacturers to enhance their offerings and competitiveness in the electric vehicle segment.
    • While three-wheelers and two-wheelers have achieved notable penetration in the EV market, four-wheeler adoption remains relatively low, signaling the need for industry players to accelerate their efforts.

What is import duty?

  • Import Duty:
    • Import duty is a tax levied on goods when they cross the international border into a country.
    • The amount of import duty charged depends on factors such as the type of goods, their value, quantity, origin, and classification under the Harmonized System (HS) code.
  • Customs Duty:
    • Customs duty is a broader term that encompasses import duty as well as other taxes and charges imposed on goods at the customs border.
    • Customs duty may include import duty, excise duty, value-added tax (VAT), and other levies depending on the country’s customs regulations.

Why are anti-CAA protests confined to Assam, Tripura in Northeast?

(General Studies- Paper II and III)

Source : The Indian Express

Recent notification of rules for the implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, or CAA, has sparked dissent primarily in Assam and Tripura, within the Northeast region.

  • The CAA, passed amidst widespread protests in 2019, aims to ease citizenship for migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, belonging to specific religious minorities.

Key Highlights

  • Exemption of Northeastern Areas
    • The notification effectively exempts nearly all areas of the Northeast from the provisions of the CAA, with exceptions in Assam and Tripura.
    • The Act specifies that it does not apply to certain tribal areas, as delineated in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, and regions under the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system.
  • Understanding the Inner Line System
    • The Inner Line Permit (ILP) system is operational in four Northeastern states:
      • Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Manipur.
    • This special permit is required for residents from other parts of India to enter and stay in these states for any duration.
    • Originating from the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation of 1873, the ILP was initially introduced to protect tribal hill areas from settlement by non-tribal populations during the British colonial era.
    • The ILP system’s primary aim was to safeguard the indigenous and tribal populations of the Northeast from demographic changes and preserve their distinct identities.
    • This system was initially implemented in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram, and was extended to Manipur in January 2020 following protests against the CAA.
  • Significance in Context of CAA
    • The inclusion of areas under the ILP system in the exemption from CAA provisions underscores the unique socio-political dynamics of the Northeast.
    • The ILP serves as a mechanism to regulate and protect the region’s demographic composition, aligning with the concerns raised by residents regarding potential demographic changes due to the CAA.
  • The Sixth Schedule: Special Powers for Autonomous District Councils
    • The Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution grants special powers to autonomous district councils (ADCs) in specific tribal-majority areas of the Northeast region, namely Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.
    • These ADCs are empowered to govern and administer their respective regions, aiming to foster development and enhance self-governance among tribal communities.
    • In the context of the Northeastern states, the Sixth Schedule applies to various regions under ADCs.
    • Mizoram, already outside the ambit of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) due to the operational Inner Line Permit (ILP) system, utilizes the Sixth Schedule for governance.
    • Meghalaya, except for a small area around Shillong, is under three different ADCs, each representing the Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia hills.
    • Assam has three ADCs, including the Bodoland Territorial Council, North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council, and Karbi-Anglong Autonomous District Council.
    • Similarly, Tripura is governed by the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council.
  • Discontent and Advocacy for Sixth Schedule Areas
    • Despite the majority of Meghalaya being covered under the Sixth Schedule, there remains some discontent, particularly among groups like the opposition Voice of the People’s Party.
    • They oppose the implementation of the CAA in areas not covered by the Sixth Schedule.
    • The Meghalaya government is actively advocating for the implementation of an ILP regime across the state, which, if realized, would render the CAA redundant in those areas.

The case against One Nation, One Election

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Indian Express

The High-Level Committee (HLC) on One Nation, One Election (ONOE), chaired by former President RamnathKovind, has submitted its recommendations to the President, marking a significant development on the cusp of the election season.

  • These recommendations, while slated for implementation in 2029, hold implications for the future of democracy in India, potentially altering electoral processes through partisan channels.

Key Highlights

  • Recommendations of the HLC
    • The HLC’s report advocates for simultaneous elections starting from 2029, proposing a two-phased strategy across all levels of government.
    • Key recommendations include amending Articles 83 and 172 of the Constitution to enable simultaneous elections to state legislative assemblies and the House of the People without requiring state ratification.
    • Additionally, it suggests provisions for holding fresh elections for state legislative assemblies in specific scenarios, such as a hung House or an unexpired dissolution.
  • Constitutional Challenges and Voter Rights
    • Despite the HLC’s recommendations, there are constitutional barriers to implementing simultaneous elections, particularly concerning the equal five-year tenure currently endowed to every elected assembly and Parliament.
    • Any amendment to this would potentially impair the constitutional rights of voters and elected representatives.
    • Critics of ONOE express concerns about its potential impact on federalism, given India’s three-tier system of government at the Union, state, and local levels.
    • Combining elections at various tiers could blur the distinction between national and local issues, leading to a centralised approach that neglects local concerns and undermines lower-tier democratic representation.
  • Operational Challenges of Simultaneous Elections
    • The practicality of holding simultaneous elections across the nation is called into question, especially considering the varied requirements observed in state assembly elections.
    • Instances such as the Jharkhand Assembly Election requiring five phases and the West Bengal Assembly Election needing eight phases highlight logistical complexities.
    • There’s a lack of clarity regarding whether the ECI or the High-Level Committee (HLC) have conducted a comprehensive logistical assessment concerning security personnel, election officials, and voting machines.
  • Judicial Oversight and Constitutional Principles
    • The judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court, plays a pivotal role in upholding democratic principles and ensuring free and fair elections.
    • Past judgments, such as KesavanandaBharati vs State of Kerala (1973) and Indira Gandhi vs Raj Narain (1975), emphasize the primacy of the Constitution and the importance of democracy as a fundamental feature.
    • The recent Chandigarh mayoral election case underscores the judiciary’s readiness to exercise its judicial review powers to intervene in electoral matters to uphold constitutional integrity.
    • Ensuring impartiality, fairness, and adherence to constitutional principles in electoral processes is paramount to safeguarding democracy.
    • The judiciary must closely scrutinize the conduct of elections to prevent adverse outcomes and uphold the integrity of the electoral process.

Atmospheric Research Testbed

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Indian Express

Funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), the Atmospheric Research Testbed (ART) represents a significant investment in advancing meteorological research, particularly focused on understanding crucial cloud processes associated with the Indian monsoon over the Monsoon Core Zone (MCZ) in central India.

  • The facility aims to address existing gaps in the study of the Indian monsoon and enhance the accuracy of weather predictions.

Key Highlights

  • Purpose and Objectives of the ART
    • The ART serves as an open-field observational and analytical research program situated in Silkheda.
    • Its primary goal is to conduct ground-based observations of various weather parameters such as temperature, wind speeds, etc., alongside in-situ observations of transient synoptic systems, particularly during the southwest monsoon season from June to September.
    • These observations will provide valuable data on cloud parameters and synoptic systems, facilitating improvements in existing weather models and enhancing rainfall predictions.
  • Components and Functionality of the ART
    • Spread across 100 acres, the ART is equipped with 25 high-end meteorological instruments to facilitate data collection and analysis.
    • These instruments enable remote sensing-based and in-situ measurements, capturing critical meteorological data over an extended period.
    • Additionally, the facility will play a crucial role in calibrating and validating various satellite-based observations essential for weather predictions and forecasting.
    • Some of the key instruments deployed at the ART include:
      • Aethalometer: For performing aerosol studies
      • Cloud condensation nuclei counter: To analyze cloud formation processes
      • Laser ceilometer: Measuring cloud sizes
      • Micro rain radar: Calculating raindrop size and distribution
      • Ka-band cloud radar and C-band Doppler weather radar: Tracking the movement of rain-bearing systems over the region
    • Development and Operational Management
      • The development of the ART has been spearheaded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, representing a significant investment of Rs 125 crore.
      • Operational management of the facility falls under the purview of the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, ensuring effective coordination and utilization of resources.
      • In its initial phase, the ART has commenced operations using remote sensing-based and in-situ measurement techniques with the existing suite of meteorological instruments.
      • Subsequent phases will see the deployment of additional instruments such as radar wind profilers, balloon-bound radiosondes, and soil moisture and temperature measuring equipment, further augmenting the facility’s observational capabilities.
    • Importance of Atmospheric Research Testbed (ART)
      • The establishment of the Atmospheric Research Testbed (ART) holds significant importance, particularly in the context of understanding and predicting the Indian monsoon.
      • Given the substantial reliance on agriculture in India, where 45% of the labor force is engaged in the sector, and the predominant rain-fed nature of Indian agriculture, comprehensive research on monsoon dynamics is crucial.
      • Central India, spanning from Gujarat to West Bengal, encompasses the Monsoon Core Zone (MCZ) and plays a pivotal role in India’s agricultural landscape.
      • The southwest monsoon season, which accounts for 70% of the country’s annual average rainfall, is especially critical for Kharif cultivation conducted between July and August.
      • Understanding the monsoon patterns and associated synoptic systems, such as low pressures and depressions originating from the Bay of Bengal, is essential for predicting rainfall and ensuring agricultural productivity.
    • Limited Understanding and Need for Data
      • Despite the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing rainfall forecasts for various regions, including the MCZ, there remains limited understanding of the role of synoptic systems and their impact on monsoon rainfall.
      • Central India serves as a natural laboratory for scientists to study monsoon dynamics, cloud physics, and associated atmospheric parameters, providing invaluable data for enhancing forecasting accuracy.
      • Climate change has exacerbated erratic rainfall patterns in tropical regions like India, intensifying low-pressure systems and leading to heavier rainfall along their trajectory during monsoons.
      • The ART facilitates long-term observations on cloud microphysics, precipitation, convection, and land-surface properties, enabling researchers to better understand and mitigate the impact of climate change on monsoon patterns.
      • Data generated from the ART will be integrated into numerical weather models to improve forecasting accuracy, particularly for rainfall forecasts.
      • Enhanced forecasts will enable the farming community to plan their activities effectively, mitigating risks associated with unpredictable weather patterns and maximizing agricultural productivity.
    • Selection of Madhya Pradesh for the Atmospheric Research Testbed (ART)
      • Madhya Pradesh was chosen as the location for the Atmospheric Research Testbed (ART), with Silkheda specifically selected due to its strategic positioning along the path of major rain-bearing synoptic systems.
      • This geographical advantage enables direct monitoring and tracking of these systems, enhancing the facility’s effectiveness in studying monsoon dynamics.
      • Additionally, Silkheda’s pristine environment, devoid of anthropogenic and other pollutants, makes it an ideal site for housing sensitive, high-end meteorological instruments and observatories.
      • This ensures accurate and reliable data collection, crucial for advancing scientific understanding of meteorological phenomena in central India.

What is a synoptic system?

  • A synoptic system, also known as a synoptic scale system or synoptic weather system, refers to a large-scale atmospheric circulation pattern characterized by horizontal movements of air masses over hundreds to thousands of kilometers.
  • Synoptic systems are typically associated with weather phenomena such as cyclones, anticyclones, fronts, and pressure systems that influence weather conditions over broad geographic regions.