UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 September 2024

 

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 September 2024 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles

 

InstaLinks :  Insta Links help you think beyond the  current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background.

Table of Contents 

GS Paper 1: (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 September 2024)

1. Bhagat Singh

 

GS Paper 2:

2. South China Sea

 

GS Paper 3:

3. Urban flooding

 

Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

1. Unethical Hacking

2. ‘Ratri Sathi’ initiative

3. CJI speech at M.K. Nambyar Memorial Lecture

 

Facts for Prelims (FFP)

1. PARAM Rudra

2. UNSC Reform

3. Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP)

4. Semiconductor Fabrication Plant

5. SASTRA Ramanujan Prize

6. GlobE Network

7. DRDO Deep Technology Initiative ABHED Jackets

8. First Mission to Venus

 

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 September 2024

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GS Paper 1:

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Bhagat Singh

Syllabus: Leader during Freedom movement

Source: The Hindu

Context:  The article revisits the thoughts and writings of Bhagat Singh on his birth anniversary, focusing on his contributions as a revolutionary thinker. Bhagat Singh’s works reflect a deep engagement with social, political, and philosophical issues, challenging the prevailing norms of his time.

Key Points:

1. Multilingual Intellectual:
   Bhagat Singh wrote extensively in Urdu, Punjabi, Hindi, and English, displaying his linguistic versatility.
   • Example: In The Problem of Punjab’s Language and Script (1923), he emphasized the cultural and linguistic depth of the Punjabi language.
2. Critique of Media and Communalism:
   Singh criticized the media for inciting communal tensions rather than promoting national unity.
   • Example: In Communal Riots and their Solution (1928), he condemned journalists for exacerbating communal violence through sensationalist headlines.
3. Students and Politics:
   He advocated for political awareness among students, arguing that education without political engagement was incomplete.
   • Example: In Students and Politics (1928), he encouraged students to be politically active and prepared to serve the nation.
4. Social Revolution and Untouchability:
   Singh called for the empowerment of marginalized communities and social revolution to eliminate untouchability.
   • Example: In The Problem of Untouchability (1928), he urged the oppressed to unite and challenge the prevailing social order.
5. Revolutionary Ideology:
   Bhagat Singh saw revolution as a continuous process of social change, not just a one-time overthrow of political power.
   • Example: In What is Revolution? (1929), he emphasized that revolution must bring about a complete societal transformation.
6. Atheism and Religion:
   As an atheist, Singh believed organized religion hindered social progress and intellectual freedom.
   • Example: In Why I am an Atheist (1930), he challenged traditional faith and advocated for rationalism.
7. Human Spirit and Love:
   Singh also wrote about the elevating nature of love and human spirit in personal development.
   • Example: In his letters to Sukhdev, he spoke about how true love can inspire strength and resilience.

These writings reflect Bhagat Singh’s intellectual depth and offer lessons for social justice, political engagement, and personal integrity.

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UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 September 2024 GS Paper 2:

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South China Sea

 Syllabus: International Relations

Source:  The Hindu

Context: The South China Sea (SCS) has become a hotspot for rising tensions due to China’s aggressive territorial claims. Countries in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly Southeast Asian nations, are feeling the heat of this assertiveness.

• China’s naval and coast guard activities, seen as provocations by regional nations, have led to increased military engagements and diplomatic efforts to counter its growing influence.

 

Events So Far in the South China Sea:

1. China’s Claims: China claims almost the entire SCS, backed by infrastructure development like military bases and airstrips on artificial islands.
2. Grey Zone Tactics: Chinese vessels frequently engage in dangerous maneuvers, ramming smaller ships, harassing resupply missions, and using military-grade lasers.
3. Legal Dismissal: In 2016, a Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled against China’s claims in the SCS, but China continues to reject the ruling.
4. Philippines Conflict: Tensions escalated as Chinese vessels disrupted Philippine resupply missions to the Second Thomas Shoal, where the Philippines has stationed its BRP Sierra Madre.
5. Military Exercises: China conducted naval drills with Russia, demonstrating its resolve to defend its claims in the SCS.

Impacts:

1. Regional Impacts:
   • Military Buildup: Countries like Japan, the Philippines, and Vietnam are increasing defense spending and acquiring advanced weapons like India’s BrahMos missiles.
   • Strategic Alliances: Japan, the Philippines, and South Korea are strengthening ties with the U.S., conducting joint exercises, and enhancing military cooperation.

2. Impact on India:
   • Strategic Interests: India sees the SCS as vital for freedom of navigation and trade. Disruptions here could affect India’s security and economic interests.
   • Quad Involvement: India’s participation in Quad and collaborations with ASEAN nations positions it as a key player in countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific.

3. Global Impact:
   • S. Involvement: The U.S. has committed to defending its regional allies, ensuring freedom of navigation and opposing China’s unilateral actions in the SCS.
   • Global Trade Disruption: The SCS is a critical trade route; instability could disrupt global supply chains, affecting oil and gas flows and undersea cable networks.

 Way Ahead:

1. Strengthening Alliances: Regional countries must bolster alliances with the U.S. and other democratic nations to counterbalance China’s dominance.
2. Diplomatic Engagements: A multilateral dialogue involving ASEAN, China, and global powers should focus on peaceful dispute resolution.
3. Legal Recourse: Countries should leverage international legal frameworks to challenge China’s actions and push for compliance with the 2016 arbitration ruling.

 Conclusion:

The situation in the South China Sea requires a balance of realism (military deterrence) and liberalism (cooperation through multilateral institutions) to prevent conflict while safeguarding regional stability.

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UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 September 2024 GS Paper 3:

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Urban Flooding

Syllabus: Natural Disaster

Source: Indian Express

Context:  Guwahati, like many growing urban centres, is grappling with the increasing frequency of urban flooding. Despite several town planning initiatives, the city’s infrastructure and drainage system remain insufficient, often exacerbated by rapid urbanization, deforestation, and poor planning.

Causes of Urban Flooding

Natural Causes:

1. Heavy Rainfall: Guwahati experiences torrential downpours during the monsoon, leading to surface runoff that overwhelms the drainage systems.
2. Topography: The city’s hilly terrain and low-lying areas prevent proper water drainage, especially when natural outlets are blocked.
3. River Overflow: Proximity to the Brahmaputra River increases the risk of flooding, as the river swells during heavy rains or when glaciers melt upstream.

Man-Made Causes:

1. Unplanned Urbanization: The rapid, unchecked development of commercial and residential areas without adequate planning blocks natural drainage systems.
2. Encroachment of Wetlands: Wetlands that acted as natural water sinks have been encroached upon, reducing water absorption capacity.
3. Inadequate Drainage Infrastructure: Drainage systems designed in the 1970s are outdated, incomplete, and incapable of handling current water levels, leading to flooding.
4. Loss of Permeable Surfaces: Excessive concretization, with limited green spaces, reduces groundwater recharge and increases runoff, leading to waterlogging.

 Impacts/Consequences of Urban Flooding

1. Disruption to Daily Life: Flooding disrupts transportation, power supply, and basic services, causing inconvenience to residents and economic loss.
2. Health Hazards: Stagnant water creates breeding grounds for diseases like dengue, malaria, and cholera.
3. Economic Loss: Flooding leads to damage of property, infrastructure, and loss of business, significantly impacting the local economy.
4. Environmental Degradation: Waterlogging erodes soil, impacts natural ecosystems, and contaminates water bodies.
5. Displacement of People: Prolonged flooding often results in displacement of residents, especially from low-lying areas.

 Mitigation Measures

1. Comprehensive Urban Planning:
   • Adopt sponge city concepts with green infrastructure, such as rain gardens and permeable pavements, to absorb excess water.
   • Implement sustainable land-use practices to avoid further encroachment on wetlands and water bodies.

2. Drainage System Upgrades:
   • Follow NDMA (National Disaster Management Authority) guidelines to design modern drainage systems that can handle extreme rainfall events.
   • Revive old drainage plans and focus on cleaning and expanding natural water channels, like the Bhoroglu River.

3. Watershed Management:
   • Restore and protect wetlands, lakes, and ponds, ensuring natural water retention to reduce runoff.
   • Promote rainwater harvesting at the community and household levels to recharge groundwater.

4. Resilient Infrastructure:
   • Ensure all new construction, especially in flood-prone areas, follows building codes to prevent waterlogging.
   • Prohibit basement construction in low-lying regions and enforce slope analysis to avoid risky development.

5. Early Warning Systems and Crisis Management:
   • Establish early warning systems to alert citizens in flood-prone areas.
   • Set up local disaster management committees involving NGOs, CBOs, and local stakeholders for efficient flood response.

Conclusion:

By integrating traditional water management techniques with new-age solutions like green infrastructure and strict regulatory measures, cities can mitigate both natural and man-made causes of flooding. Comprehensive urban governance and participatory approaches will ensure resilient, future-proof urban development.

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UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 September 2024 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

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Unethical Hacking

Context: The Madras High Court has issued an order restraining Telegram Messenger and Cloudflare from being used by unethical hackers to share or sell sensitive customer data allegedly stolen from the systems of Star Health and Allied Insurance Company, Chennai.

Use in UPSC GS3:

• Topic: Cyber Security
  • The incident demonstrates the growing importance of data protection, highlighting the need for robust cybersecurity mechanisms to prevent data breaches and misuse of digital platforms by unethical hackers.

Use in UPSC GS4:

• Topic: Ethics in Technology and Governance
  • This case can be used to discuss ethical issues in digital governance, the misuse of technology platforms, and the responsibility of tech companies in ensuring data privacy and security.

 

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‘Ratri Sathi’ initiative

Context: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced the removal of certain provisions in the ‘Ratri Sathi’ initiative following objections by the Supreme Court.

• The Supreme Court raised concerns about the deployment of contractual staff, particularly after an incident involving a contractual worker accused of a crime at R.G. Kar Medical College.
• The appointment of 12,000 untrained police personnel has sparked controversy, with experts questioning their ability to ensure security for doctors.

 Use in UPSC GS2:

• Topic: Government Policies and Interventions
  • This case can be used to discuss judicial interventions in state policies and the implications of government decisions on public safety and service delivery.

 Use in UPSC GS4 (Ethics):

• Topic: Ethical Issues in Public Service
  • The ethical concerns raised by the deployment of untrained contractual workers and police personnel can illustrate the importance of competency and responsibility in ensuring public safety.

 

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CJI speech at M.K. Nambyar Memorial Lecture

Context: Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud delivered the M.K. Nambyar Memorial Lecture, emphasizing the evolving nature of constitutional doctrine in response to societal changes.

Judgement and Its Importance:

1. A.K. Gopalan Case: Nambyar advocated for the ‘due process of law’ in Article 21, which was a major leap in interpreting the right to life and personal liberty. This principle ultimately influenced the court’s understanding that fundamental rights are interlinked and must not be treated in isolation.
2. Kesavananda Bharati Case: The introduction of the ‘Basic Structure’ doctrine ensured that certain core principles of the Constitution could not be amended, safeguarding democratic values. This case remains a cornerstone of constitutional law, ensuring the Constitution’s fundamental framework remains intact against excessive amendments.

These rulings were transformative as they not only strengthened individual rights but also solidified the role of the judiciary in maintaining the essence of the Constitution.

 Statements from CJI for UPSC exams:

1. “Constitutional doctrine evolves with society, and no generation can monopolize solutions or foresee the future.”

• This highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of the Constitution in response to societal changes.

1. “The Indian Constitution thrives as a ‘living document’.”
   • This underscores the flexible and adaptive nature of the Indian Constitution, making it relevant in various contexts.
2. “The solution lies between a complete abandonment of the Constitution framers’ vision and its uncritical acceptance.”
   • This reflects the balanced approach to constitutional interpretation, ensuring neither rigidity nor complete deviation from the framers’ intent.

NOTE: These could be potential essay topics. Try to write an essay on one of the three statements.

 

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UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 September 2024 Facts for Prelims (FFP)

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PARAM Rudra

 Source: PM India

 Context: The Prime Minister inaugurated three new PARAM Rudra supercomputers worth ₹130 crore under the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM).

• These supercomputers have been deployed in Pune, Delhi, and Kolkata to aid advanced research in areas like physics, cosmology, earth sciences, and weather prediction.

Significance:

• These supercomputers will propel India’s scientific research capabilities, making state-of-the-art technology accessible to young scientists.
• They will assist in areas like disaster management, industrial growth, agriculture (weather and soil analysis), and boost national capability in science and technology.
• Part of India’s strategy towards self-reliance and leadership in Industry 4.0.

Supercomputers in India:

• Origin: India began focusing on supercomputing in 1987 after being denied the purchase of a Cray X-MP by the USA. This led to India’s development of indigenous supercomputers.
• Major Indian Supercomputers:
  1. PARAM Series (developed by C-DAC): Includes PARAM Siddhi AI, PARAM Pravega, PARAM Utkarsh, and PARAM Shivay.
  2. Pratyush and Mihir (for weather forecasting) and AI Supercomputer AIRAWAT (ranked 75th globally as of 2023).
• Applications: Supercomputers in India are utilized for weather forecasting, genomic sequencing, space exploration, aviation engineering, defense applications, and oil & gas exploration.
• Significance: Supercomputers drive innovation, research, and are instrumental in critical areas like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and national security, positioning India as a global leader in technology.

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UNSC Reform

Source: TH

Context: With the United Nations (UN) approaching its 80th anniversary next year, the Group of Four (G4) countries seeking permanent membership and reform of the UN Security Council (UNSC) called for urgent reform of the world body. Other plurilateral groupings, such as the L69 and C-10 also echoed these calls.

Background of the Issue:

• The Group of Four (G4) countries—India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan—are seeking urgent reform of the UN Security Council (UNSC) to include both permanent and non-permanent members from developing countries.
• G4 and other groups such as L69 and C-10 emphasized the need for reform to make the UNSC more representative, democratic, and transparent, especially for Global South representation.
• The UNSC reform is critical to enhancing its credibility and legitimacy, with these groups pressing for immediate text-based negotiations.

L69 Grouping:

• Members: 32 developing nations including India, from Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Pacific Small Island Developing States.
• Aim: Expansion of UNSC permanent and non-permanent categories to reflect contemporary global realities and promote a more accountable and transparent Security Council.

C10 Grouping:

• Members: Committee of Ten Heads of State and Government of the African Union (C10), comprising 10 African nations.
• Aim: Focuses on UNSC reform, advocating for better representation of Africa and pushing the Common African Position based on the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration.

United Nations Security Council (UNSC):

• Origin: Established in 1945 after World War II as one of the five principal organs of the United Nations.
• Head: Led by 15 Members—5 permanent (P5: UK, USA, Russia, China, France) and 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.
• HQ: United Nations Headquarters, New York City.
• Aim: Responsible for maintaining international peace and security, resolving disputes, and making binding decisions for all member states.
• Powers: Includes establishing peacekeeping operations, international sanctions, and authorizing military action. The P5 members have veto power over UNSC decisions.

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Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP)

Source: TH

Context: A new memorandum of agreement will be signed shortly between the Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh governments for implementing a modified project for linking of Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP).

• Aim: To address drinking water and irrigation needs in 13 districts of Rajasthan. The project will link rivers such as Chambal, Parvati, and Kali Sindh for better water resource utilization, benefiting both states.

Rivers Involved in the Project:

1. Chambal River:
   • Origin: Singar Chouri peak, Vindhya mountains, Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
   • Tributaries: Banas, Kali Sindh, Sipra, Parbati.
2. Parvati River:
   • Origin: Vindhya Range, Sehore District, Madhya Pradesh.
   • Tributaries: None significant.
3. Kali Sindh River:
   • Origin: Bagli, Dewas District, Madhya Pradesh.
   • Tributaries: Parwan, Niwaj, Ahu.

Significance: The ERCP will help harvest surplus water during the rainy season for the water-scarce regions of Rajasthan, ensuring a sustainable solution for drinking water and irrigation till 2051.

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Semiconductor Fabrication Plant

Source: Indian Express

Context: India and the U.S. have announced a collaboration to establish India’s first semiconductor fabrication plant focused on defense and national security.

• This initiative aims to reduce dependency on imports and boost India’s advanced technology capabilities.

Firms Involved:

• Bharat Semi and 3rdiTech: Indian start-ups focusing on designing military-specific chips. Founded by Vrinda Kapoor, Vinayak Dalmia, and Mukul Sarkar, these firms have worked with the Indian Armed Forces and U.S. military since 2019.

India’s Semiconductor Initiatives:

1. India Semiconductor Mission (ISM): Provides a 50% capex subsidy for semiconductor projects.
2. Fab Plant for National Security: Aims to manufacture defense-related chips domestically, reducing reliance on imports for critical technologies like missile seekers and night vision devices.
3. Self-Reliance Initiatives: Aligned with Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, this initiative strengthens India’s role in the global semiconductor supply chain.

Insta links:

 

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SASTRA Ramanujan Prize

Source: TH

Context: The 2024 SASTRA Ramanujan Prize will be awarded to Alexander Dunn of the Georgia Institute of Technology, U.S.

SASTRA Ramanujan Prize:

• Origin: The award was instituted by the Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA) in 2005.
• Given By: SASTRA University, Tamil Nadu, India.
• Award Details: A cash prize of USD 10,000 is presented annually.
• Eligibility: It is awarded to individuals aged 32 and below for outstanding contributions in the field of mathematics, particularly those influenced by the work of Srinivasa Ramanujan.

Srinivasa Ramanujan:

• Born: 22nd December 1887 in Erode, Tamil Nadu.
• Key Contributions: Ramanujan made significant contributions to the analytical theory of numbers, elliptic functions, and partition theory. He also worked on hypergeometric series and Euler’s constant.
• Mentorship: British mathematician G.H. Hardy recognized his talent in 1913 and invited him to Cambridge, where Ramanujan’s work flourished.

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GlobE Network

Source: DD-News

Context: India has been elected to the fifteen-member steering committee of the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities (GlobE Network), an international initiative aimed at addressing corruption and financial crime.

 About the GlobE Network:

• Origin: Launched in June 2021 under the G20 framework during a UN General Assembly Special Session against Corruption (UNGASS).
• Members: It currently includes 121 member countries and 219 authorities worldwide.
• Aim: To facilitate international cooperation in combating cross-border corruption and financial crime, and to support asset recovery efforts.
• Powers: The network enables global agencies to exchange criminal intelligence, best practices, and devise joint strategies to fight corruption.
• Significance of India’s Election: India’s election to the steering committee allows it to actively contribute to global anti-corruption efforts, leveraging its expertise in tackling corruption, and enhancing its leadership role on the international stage, particularly after its G20 Presidency in 2023.

 

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DRDO Deep Technology Initiative

Source: HT

Context:  Backed by the ₹1-lakh crore corpus for promoting transformative potential research, announced in the interim Budget, DRDO is set to launch a first-of-its-kind initiative that will remodel its research programme towards emerging technologies for military usage.

• Significance: DRDO is funding five high-value deep tech projects, with up to ₹50 crore allocated per project, focusing on indigenisation and reducing dependency on imports. These projects are intended to drive research in emerging technologies like quantum, blockchain, and artificial intelligence with a long-term impact on national security.
• Global Inspiration: The programme is modeled on similar global initiatives like the U.S. DARPA, with the aim of revolutionising defence capabilities through futuristic and disruptive technologies.
• Project Funding and Collaboration: The Technology Development Fund (TDF) engages MSMEs and start-ups for R&D in military hardware and software. Funding will be rolled out in five tranches, with the first installment capped at 20%, based on project appraisals by an integrated expert team.

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ABHED Jackets

Source: PIB

Context:  The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has developed Light Weight Bullet Proof Jackets called ABHED (Advanced Ballistics for High Energy Defeat). These jackets are designed to offer enhanced protection while maintaining lightweight features, meeting the evolving needs of the Indian Armed Forces.

Features:

1. Made from polymers and indigenous boron carbide ceramic material, ensuring both strength and reduced weight.
2. Developed at the DRDO Industry Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA-CoE) at IIT Delhi using advanced simulation and material characterization techniques.
3. Provides 360-degree protection with modular-design and front/rear armour plates.
4. Weight ranges from 8.2 kg to 9.5 kg depending on the required BIS level standards.
5. Lighter than the maximum weight specified by the General Staff Qualitative Requirement of the Indian Army and meets the highest threat level standards.

Significance:

• Enhances soldier mobility by reducing the burden of heavy protective gear.
• Developed with indigenous materials contributing to self-reliance in defense production.
• Aligns with the Make in India initiative, reducing dependence on foreign imports for critical defense equipment.
• Contributes to national security by providing state-of-the-art protective gear tailored for the specific needs of the Indian Army.

Insta Links:

1. Defence Technology

 

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First Mission to Venus

Source: Indian Express

Context:  The Union Cabinet last week approved India’s first mission to Venus that ISRO aims to launch in March 2028. This is the country’s second interplanetary mission after the Mars Orbiter Mission launched in 2013.

Features and Roadmap:

1. India’s first mission to Venus, planned by ISRO, will launch in March 2028.
2. The mission will study Venus’ surface, sub-surface, atmosphere, ionosphere, and its interaction with the Sun.
3. Scientific payloads include an L and S band Synthetic Aperture Radar, a thermal camera, and experiments to study interplanetary dust and high-energy particles.
4. India will use aero-braking to gradually lower the satellite’s orbit around Venus, utilizing the planet’s atmosphere to slow down and achieve the desired altitude.

Significance:

1. Provides insights into Venus, offering clues about Earth’s evolution, especially regarding atmospheric and climate changes.
2. Enhances India’s position in global space exploration, marking its second major interplanetary mission after the Mars Orbiter Mission.

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UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 September 2024

 

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