CURRENT AFFAIRS - 22/12/2023

Contents

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 22/12/2023

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 22/12/2023

EU agrees new rules on hosting migrants, seeks to cut numbers

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Indian Express

The European Union (EU) has reached a comprehensive agreement on a set of new rules aimed at distributing the costs and responsibilities of hosting migrants more equitably and managing the influx of people.

This agreement follows all-night talks between representatives of the European Parliament and EU governments, and it is part of a broader initiative known as the New Pact on Migration and Asylum, set to be implemented from the coming year.

Key Highlights

Reducing Arrival Numbers:
- Migrant arrivals in the EU have decreased significantly since the peak in 2015, but the recent upward trend, reaching 255,000 in the year to November 2023, prompted the need for a comprehensive approach.
- More than half of these arrivals are crossing the Mediterranean from Africa, primarily heading to Italy.
Distribution of Responsibility:
- A notable challenge has been the reluctance of some Eastern EU members to accept migrants who initially arrive in countries like Greece and Italy.
- The new system mandates that non-border countries must either accept a share of 30,000 asylum applicants or contribute at least 20,000 euros ($21,870) per person to an EU fund.
Screening System:
- The agreement includes the implementation of a screening system designed to differentiate between individuals in need of international protection and those who are not.
- Asylum applications with a low chance of success, may be prevented from entering the EU, and individuals seen as security threats can be detained at the border.
- The processing of asylum applications will be expedited, addressing delays and inefficiencies in the current system.
Criticism:
- Amnesty International has criticized the pact, asserting that it would regress EU asylum law by decades, leading to increased suffering for asylum seekers.
- They argue that the system appears designed to make it more challenging for individuals to access safety.

Lok Sabha Passes Telecommunication Bill, 2023

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Indian Express

Recently, the Lok Sabha approved the Telecommunication Bill, 2023, signaling a significant overhaul of India’s telecom regulatory framework.

The legislation, set to replace outdated laws dating back to the colonial era, brings about substantial changes in spectrum allocation, licensing procedures, and regulatory powers.

Key Provisions:

Repealing Colonial-era Laws:
- The Telecommunication Bill, 2023, is slated to replace the Indian Telegraph Act 1885, The Wireless Telegraphy Act 1933, and the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act 1950, modernizing the regulatory framework for the telecom sector in India.
The Bill allows for the administrative allocation of spectrum for satellite broadband services, departing from the auction system established since the Supreme Court’s ruling in 2012.
- This move aims to encourage more players, especially within the startup ecosystem in the space sector, and exert a moderating influence on prices.
The legislation seeks to simplify the licensing regime and streamline processes, merging various licenses, registrations, and permissions into a single authorization process.
- This is expected to reduce the regulatory burden on telecom operators.
Exclusion of Communication and OTT Services:
- Notably, the Bill excludes communication and Over-The-Top (OTT) services from the ambit of telecom regulations.
- This decision maintains a distinction between the network layer and the application layer, clarifying the regulatory status of services like WhatsApp and Telegram.
The Bill empowers the Central government to take control and management of telecommunication services in the interest of national security or during a war.
- Additionally, both central and state governments can temporarily take possession of telecom services or networks in case of a public emergency.
Contrary to concerns raised during the draft stage, the Bill retains the powers of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) in areas such as tariffs and dispute resolution.
It avoids detrimental amendments to Section 11 of the Trai Act, ensuring the continuity of TRAI’s regulatory authority.
Resolution of Disputes:
- The Bill introduces a tiered structure for settling disputes, providing clarity on the regulator’s powers and addressing concerns related to the insolvency of telecom companies.

The Telecommunications Bill, 2023 in detail

Background:
- The telecom sector in India has historically been governed by three laws: the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885; the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933; and the Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1950.
- These laws regulated various aspects of telegraph-related activities, wireless telegraph apparatus possession, and telegraph wire possession.
- The Telegraph Wires (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1950, was repealed by the Repealing and Amending Act, 2023, receiving assent on December 17, 2023.
- Additionally, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) Act, 1997 established TRAI as the regulator overseeing telecom tariffs and created the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) to adjudicate disputes.
Need for Legislative Changes:
- The Indian Telegraph Act of 1885, originally crafted for telegraph services (discontinued in 2013), persisted as the regulatory framework for an evolving telecom landscape.
- Over time, communication technology advanced, enabling real-time transmission of text, voice, images, and videos. The sector expanded to include services like voice calling, SMS, radio broadcasting, television, and internet-based communication.
- Recognizing the transformative changes in telecom’s nature, usage, and technologies, the Department of Telecommunications acknowledged the imperative to restructure the legal and regulatory framework. This recognition prompted legislative attempts to modernize regulations.
Past Legislative Efforts:
- In 2001, the Communication Convergence Bill aimed to replace the three telegraph laws, the TRAI Act, and the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995.
- Though examined by the Standing Committee on Information Technology, the bill lapsed with the dissolution of the 13th Lok Sabha.
- In 2020, the Department of Telecommunications released the draft Indian Telecommunications Bill, seeking public feedback.
- Subsequently, on December 18, 2023, the Telecommunications Bill, 2023, was introduced in Lok Sabha, aiming to replace the two telegraph laws and establish a modern regulatory framework for the dynamic telecom sector.

Key Features of the Telecommunications Bill, 2023

Authorization for Telecom Activities:
- Individuals or entities intending to engage in telecommunication services, establish, operate, maintain, or expand telecommunication networks, or possess radio equipment will need prior authorization from the central government.
- Existing licences will remain valid for the duration specified upon granting or for a standard five-year period if no specific duration is outlined.
Assignment of Spectrum:
- Spectrum allocation will primarily be conducted through auctions, with exceptions for specific use cases.
- Certain purposes, such as national security, defence, disaster management, weather forecasting, transport, satellite services (e.g., DTH and satellite telephony), and services provided by BSNL, MTNL, and public broadcasting, may involve administrative spectrum allocation.
- The central government holds the authority to repurpose or reassign any frequency range.
- The government may permit spectrum sharing, trading, leasing, and surrender.
Powers of Interception and Search:
- The bill grants the government the power to intercept, monitor, or block messages between individuals or groups based on specified grounds.
- These actions must be deemed necessary or expedient in the interest of public safety, public emergency, or other specified grounds, including state security, prevention of incitement of offenses, or maintaining public order.
- The bill outlines prescribed procedures, safeguards, and duration for such interception or blocking of communications.
- Telecom services may be suspended under similar grounds as interception, with a focus on public safety and emergencies.
- In cases of public emergency or safety, the government can temporarily take possession of telecom infrastructure, networks, or services.
- Authorized government officers may conduct searches of premises or vehicles suspected of possessing unauthorized telecom networks or equipment.
Protection of Users:
- The central government has the authority to implement measures safeguarding users, such as requiring prior consent for specified messages, including advertising messages.
- The bill allows for the creation of Do Not Disturb registers, empowering users to control and restrict unwanted communications.
- Entities providing telecom services must establish mechanisms for users to report malware or specified messages.
- Telecom service providers are mandated to establish an online mechanism for user registration and the redressal of grievances.
Right of Way:
- Entities laying telecommunication infrastructure can seek the right of way over public or private property.
- Right of way must be provided on a non-discriminatory and non-exclusive basis to the extent possible, ensuring fair access to necessary pathways for infrastructure development.
Amendments to TRAI Act:
- Amendments to the TRAI Act enable individuals with a minimum of 30 years of professional experience to serve as the Chairperson and those with at least 25 years of professional experience to serve as members of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India.
Digital Bharat Nidhi:
- Retaining the Universal Service Obligation Fund established under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, the bill renames it as Digital Bharat Nidhi.
- The fund can now be utilized not only for providing telecom services in underserved areas but also for research and development in the telecom sector.
Offences and Penalties:
- The bill outlines various criminal and civil offences related to telecom services.
- Providing telecom services without authorization or gaining unauthorized access to a telecom network or data is punishable with imprisonment, fines, or both.
- Breaching terms and conditions of authorization incurs civil penalties, ensuring regulatory compliance.
Adjudication Process:
- The central government will appoint an adjudicating officer, at the rank of joint secretary and above, to inquire into and pass orders against civil offences.
- Orders of the adjudicating officer can be appealed before the Designated Appeals Committee within 30 days, consisting of officers of at least Additional Secretary rank.
- Appeals against committee orders, specifically related to breaches of terms and conditions, can be filed with the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) within 30 days, ensuring a comprehensive adjudication process.

India Skills Report finds Kerala the most preferred State to work

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : TH

Kerala has emerged as the top choice for employment in the India Skills Report 2024, according to a survey conducted by talent assessment agency Wheebox in collaboration with entities like the All India Council for Technical Education and the Confederation of Indian Industry.

The report, based on a National Employability Test involving 3.88 lakh youths, highlights Kerala’s excellence in fostering a well-rounded talent pool.

Key Findings

Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram secured the second and fourth positions, respectively, among cities preferred by both men and women for employment, regardless of age.
The report indicates an improvement in employability in India, with 51.25% of assessed youths found to be employable, possessing the required skills.
Kerala emerged as the most preferred state to work and secured the second position in overall employability among the 18-21 age group, affirming its status as a robust talent pool.
Thiruvananthapuram claimed the top position among cities for nurturing computer skills, contributing to Kerala’s third-place ranking overall among states.
Educational Domains:
- Kerala ranked third in terms of the highest concentration of employable talent in B.E./BTech and polytechnic domains, highlighting its prowess in technical education.
- The state also secured the third position for the highest availability of English skills among the talent pool.
The report emphasized that Kerala’s well-rounded talent pool, equipped with diverse skill sets, positions the state to meet the evolving demands of the job market by ensuring resilience and adaptability.
Thiruvananthapuram, a city making substantial strides, challenges the conventional notion of employability being confined to major urban centers.
The study indicates a broader dispersion of talent across the country.
Government Initiatives:
- The report lauded the State government’s initiatives, particularly ASAP Kerala’s impact in imparting skills to over 2.5 lakh higher secondary students in the last decade.
- Community skill parks and centers of excellence established by the agency are recognized as exemplary models for training in advanced technologies nationwide.

Bengaluru airport wins award at UNESCO’s 2023 Prix Versailles

(General Studies- Paper I)

Source : TH

The Terminal 2 (T2) of Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru has been acknowledged as one of the world’s most beautiful airports and has received the prestigious world special prize for interiors at the UNESCO’s 2023 Prix Versailles.

The accolade was announced by the World Judges Panel for the Prix Versailles 2023, led by renowned fashion designer Elie Saab.

Key Highlights

Award-Winning Terminal:
- T2, also known as the Terminal in a Garden, was inaugurated on November 11, 2022.
- The terminal spans an impressive 255,661 square meters and is built on four foundational pillars:
  - technological leadership, terminal in a garden, environmental and ecological stewardship, and a celebration of Karnataka’s rich heritage and culture.
- Architectural Features:
  - The terminal’s interiors, adorned with engineered bamboo, exude a contemporary yet classic ambiance.
  - Notably, the terminal boasts a spacious indoor garden with rammed-earth walls, waterfalls, and hanging planted bells, contributing to its unique aesthetic.
- Cultural and Environmental Focus:
  - The design reflects a celebration of local heritage and culture while emphasizing environmental sustainability.
  - T2 is recognized as the world’s largest terminal pre-certified with a Platinum LEED rating by the US Green Building Council before operational commencement.
- Recognition and Significance:
  - The Prix Versailles, established in 2015, focuses on intelligent sustainability as a cultural driver.
  - It recognizes innovation, creativity, reflection of local heritage, ecological efficiency, and values of social interaction.
  - T2, designed to accommodate 25 million passengers per annum, aligns functionality with aesthetic appeal.
  - It promises to be a visual delight for passengers, featuring insightfully curated art and décor elements as part of BIAL’s recently launched Art Programme.
- Sustainable Design and Certifications:
  - T2 has received the world’s largest terminal pre-certified with a Platinum LEED rating, showcasing the airport’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
  - The terminal has also earned the prestigious Platinum certification under the IGBC Green New Building rating system, further underscoring its sustainable design.

In Image: A section of the T2 terminal.

Note: T2 is referred to as ‘Terminal in a Garden’, and has been designed as a tribute to the ‘Garden City’ of Bengaluru.

Analysing the Post Office Bill, 2023

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : TH

The Rajya Sabha has successfully passed the Post Office Bill, 2023, aiming to replace the antiquated Indian Post Office Act of 1898.

The legislative move is driven by the government’s commitment to enhance the efficiency of the Postal Department, positioning it as both a reliable messenger service and a facilitator of banking facilities.

Key Highlights

The new bill seeks to replace the Indian Post Office Act, 1898, reflecting the government’s initiative to modernize and streamline postal services in the country.
The legislation aims to ensure the effective functioning of the Postal Department, transforming it from a traditional mail delivery service to a comprehensive service delivery institution.
Key Features of the Post Office Bill, 2023:
- Grounds for Interception: The bill delineates specific grounds for the interception of postal articles, including:
  - Security of the state.
  - Friendly relations with foreign states.
  - Public order.
  - Emergency situations.
  - Public safety.
  - Contravention of the provisions of the Bill or other laws.
- Powers of Interception: Empowers the officer-in-charge appointed by the Central government to:
  - Intercept, open, or detain any postal article based on the aforementioned grounds.
  - Dispose of intercepted items as deemed appropriate by the government.
- Delivery to Customs Authority:
  - The Central government has the authority, through notification, to empower Post Office officers to deliver suspected postal articles to customs authorities or other specified bodies.
  - Customs authorities will handle such items in accordance with prevailing laws.
- Exemption from Liability:
  - The Bill explicitly exempts the Post Office from incurring liability related to its services.
  - Clarifies that no officer shall be held liable unless the officer has acted fraudulently or willfully caused loss, delay, or mis-delivery of services.
- Removal of Offences and Penalties:
  - The Bill notably lacks specifications regarding offenses and penalties, with only one exception:
  - Unpaid amounts by a user are recoverable as arrears of land revenue.
- The removal of offenses and penalties marks a departure from the 1898 Act, which previously included punitive measures for offenses such as theft, misappropriation, or destruction of postal articles.
- These provisions were subsequently eliminated by the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023.
Concerns Raised
- Violation of the Right to Privacy:
  - The Post Office Bill, 2023, lacks specified procedural safeguards against the interception of postal articles, raising concerns about potential violations of fundamental rights.
  - The absence of procedural safeguards may specifically infringe upon the right to privacy and the freedom of speech and expression of individuals.
  - Supreme Court in a judgement in 1996 has held that a just and fair procedure is essential to regulate the power of interception to safeguard citizens’ rights under Article 19(1)(a) and Article 21.
- Broad Scope of ‘Emergency’ Ground:
  - The Post Office Bill, 2023, allows interception on the ground of ’emergency,’ akin to the 1898 Act’s ‘public emergency’ provision.
  - The Law Commission (1968) flagged concerns about the term ’emergency’ being undefined, potentially providing a wide and arbitrary scope for interception.
  - The Supreme Court (2015) has emphasized that arbitrary grounds for restricting freedom of speech and expression are unconstitutional.
- Exemption from Liability and Consumer Protection:
  - The Bill stipulates that India Post will not incur liability for services provided, with the central government empowered to prescribe liability through Rules.
  - The National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission (2023) had previously ruled that the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 does not apply to government-provided postal services.
  - The Bill’s retention of liability provisions from the 1898 Act raises concerns about consumer rights protection.
  - The framework in the Bill differs from the Railway Claims Tribunal Act, 1987, which establishes tribunals for addressing complaints against Indian Railways.
  - This contrast raises questions about the adequacy of consumer protection for postal service users.
- Removal of Offences and Penalties:
  - The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023, and subsequently the Post Office Bill, 2023, removed all offences and penalties under the 1898 Act.
  - The 1898 Act had provisions penalizing various offences, including illegal opening of postal articles by postal officers and unauthorized opening of mail bags.
  - However, the current bill does not provide for any specific offences or penalties.
  - Under the 1898 Act, illegal opening of postal articles by a postal officer was punishable with imprisonment, fines, or both. The new bill lacks specific consequences for such actions.
  - The absence of penalties for actions like illegal opening may have adverse implications for the right to privacy of individuals.
- Lack of Clarity on Consequences:
  - The Bill exempts officers from incurring liability for services, except in cases of fraudulent or willful acts causing loss, delay, or mis-delivery.
  - However, the bill does not specify the consequences for officers in such cases.

Global Surge of JN.1 Variant

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : TH

The JN.1 variant, a descendant of the BA.2.86 Omicron lineage, has witnessed an eight-fold increase in prevalence globally, reaching over 27% in just a month.

Originating in Luxembourg, it has become the dominant variant in several countries, raising concerns about its potential to become the predominant strain globally.

Key Highlights

Distinct Characteristics:
- 1 carries an additional mutation (L455S) in the spike protein compared to its parent lineage, BA.2.86.
- This additional mutation enhances its immune evasion significantly.
- Despite increased transmissibility and immune escape capability, there have been no major reported outbreaks or increased disease severity associated with the JN.1 variant.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently classified JN.1 as a separate variant of interest due to its widespread presence and rapid spread.
- While evidence suggests no elevated disease severity, continued monitoring and surveillance are essential.
- 1 was initially tracked as part of BA.2.86 but now constitutes the “vast majority” of this lineage.
Indian Scenario:
- India has reported 21 cases of the JN.1 variant, with Goa having the highest number at 19.
- All cases have been clinically mild, requiring home isolation.
- With a recent surge in COVID-19 cases in India, especially during the winter season, there is a need for heightened vigilance and adherence to surveillance guidelines.
- While universal masking may not be mandatory, the emphasis is on high-risk individuals wearing masks, particularly in poorly ventilated closed spaces.
- India has adopted a proactive approach by testing all patients with influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) for COVID-19 and sequencing positive cases as per revised surveillance guidelines.
Genome Sequencing Focus:
- Sustained focus on genome sequencing for novel variants is crucial for early detection and monitoring.
- The emphasis is on learning from past mistakes and avoiding the stigmatization or politicization of states reporting higher cases or novel variants.
- Public health responses should prioritize integrity, transparency, and effective surveillance.

About COVID-19

COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, was first identified in December 2019 in the city of Wuhan, Hubei province, China.
The exact origin is still under investigation, but it is believed to have originated in bats and possibly transmitted to humans through an intermediate host.
Symptoms:
- COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild to severe and may appear 2-14 days after exposure.
- Common symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, body aches, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, and difficulty breathing.
- Severe cases can lead to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), organ failure, and death.
Spread:
- The virus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
- It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face.
Prevention:
- Key preventive measures include vaccination, wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, maintaining physical distance, and avoiding large gatherings.
- Vaccination has proven effective in reducing the severity of illness and preventing hospitalization and death.
Treatment:
- Most COVID-19 cases are mild and can be managed at home with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications.
- Severe cases may require hospitalization, oxygen therapy, and, in extreme cases, mechanical ventilation.
- Several antiviral drugs and monoclonal antibodies have been authorized for the treatment of COVID-19.
Challenges and Variants:
- Challenges include vaccine distribution, vaccine hesitancy, new variants emerging, and the need for ongoing research.
- Variants like Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, and Omicron have raised concerns due to increased transmissibility or potential immune escape.

Rediscovery of Namdapha Flying Squirrel in Arunachal Pradesh After 42 Years

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : TH

A rare and elusive species, the Namdapha flying squirrel (Biswamoyopterusbiswasi), previously thought to be extinct, has been rediscovered in Arunachal Pradesh after a gap of 42 years.

The squirrel was last documented in 1981 based on a single specimen found in the Namdapha Tiger Reserve.
Zoologists had faced challenges in locating the nocturnal mammal during subsequent expeditions, leading to speculations about its possible extinction.

Key Highlights

A total of ten expeditions, conducted in 2021 by Aaranyak, a biodiversity conservation group based in Assam, spanning 79 days, finally yielded success.
The team, led by Firoz Ahmed, spotted the Namdapha flying squirrel in April 2022.
The rediscovery is significant, given the lack of live observations or photographs of the species during the four-decade gap.
The team is now planning a study to collect DNA samples of the recently sighted squirrel in the field.
These samples will be compared with the genetic material from the individual collected in 1981, stored at the Zoological Survey of India in Kolkata, to confirm the identity of the species.
If the identity is confirmed, the Namdapha flying squirrel can serve as a powerful flagship for conservation efforts in the Namdapha Tiger Reserve and contribute to the protection of other wildlife species in the region.

About the Namdapha flying squirrel

The Namdapha flying squirrel (Biswamoyopterusbiswasi) is a rare, nocturnal species exclusive to Arunachal Pradesh in northeast India.
Initially identified through a single specimen collected in Namdapha National Park in 1981, this arboreal mammal’s population remains unquantified.
The species is typically found in tall Mesuaferrea jungles, predominantly on hill slopes in the Dihing River catchment area, particularly the western slope of the Patkai range.
Until 2013, the Namdapha flying squirrel was the sole member of the genus Biswamoyopterus.
- Subsequently, the Laotian giant flying squirrel (Biswamoyopteruslaoensis) was described.
- In 2018, during a study of specimens at the Kunming Institute of Zoology, another species in the same genus was discovered.
  - It was named as the Mount Gaoligong flying squirrel (Biswamoyopterusgaoligongensis), based on its geographical discovery in the Gaoligong Mountain region.

About Namdapha Tiger Reserve

The Namdapha Tiger Reserve is situated in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, India.
It spans an extensive area, covering approximately 1,985 square kilometers.
Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1972, it attained the status of a national park in 1983.
The reserve was later declared a tiger reserve in 1986, emphasizing its significance for the conservation of the Bengal tiger.
Biodiversity:
- Known for its exceptional biodiversity, Namdapha is a hotspot for various flora and fauna.
- The reserve is home to a diverse range of species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
Flora:
- The reserve features a variety of vegetation types, ranging from subtropical rainforests to alpine meadows.
- Notable flora includes the tall Mesuaferrea jungles, which provide habitat for species like the Namdapha flying squirrel.
Fauna:
- Namdapha Tiger Reserve is renowned for its rich mammalian diversity.
- Besides tigers, it harbors species like leopard, snow leopard, red panda, Asiatic black bear, and the elusive Namdapha flying squirrel.
- The avian population is equally diverse, with numerous species of birds inhabiting the park.