Daily Prelims Notes 21 August 2023

Daily Prelims Notes

21 August 2023

Table Of Contents

1. India prepares own carbon trading system and decarbonisation measures to counter EU’s CBAM
2. India may not endorse common BRICS currency
3. Govt bolsters onion buffer by additional 2 lakh tonnes
4. CCI staring at lack of quorum logjam again
5. What a slowing China means for India
6. Gene-edited mustard
7. Xenotransplantation
8. Hurricane Hillary
9. Brazil found the last survivors of an Amazon tribe
10. What are Acoustic Side Channel Attacks and how is AI used to increase its accuracy?
11. The harsh realities of space that Chandrayaan 3 is built to brave
12. Panel calls for uniformity in tenure, the selection process of heads of various academies
13. SC judgement delivered four decades ago counters President’s Rule in J&K
14. Kerala Bus Driver’s Reprieve in Fatal Accident Case – SC Verdict
15. Pulses Prices May Spiral as Deficient Rain Mars Sowing

1. India prepares own carbon trading system and decarbonisation measures to counter EU’s CBAM

Subject :Economy

Section: External sector

In News: Government working on setting an Indian carbon trading system in addition to taking measures to counter EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)

Key Points:

• India is aiming to set up its own carbon trading system apart from measures that push high-emission industries towards decarbonisation in order to mitigate impact of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to be implemented by the EU from October 1 this year.

CBAM Mitigating Measures:

• Providing “hand-holding” across some industries, bringing in specific definitions and auditing standards apart from carrying out certification processes.
• Select Ministries, such as Commerce & Industry and External Affairs, will take up issues that support India’s stand on CBAM across appropriate international fora.
• Efforts will be made towards keeping MSMEs out of the ambit.
• India is in talks with the EU to allow energy auditors from the country to verify carbon- intensive exports, including aluminium.

Carbon Market:

• Plans are afoot to develop the Indian Carbon Market (ICM), where a national framework will be established. A notification on the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme 2023 was notified recently.
• Government has proposed amendments to a 20-year-old energy conservation law that will provide the framework for a carbon market in an attempt to incentivise emission reduction by industries and commercial units.
• Union cabinet approved India’s climate pledges made at the COP26 in Glasgow last year. Under India’s updated pledge, it aims to have 50% of its energy come from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030 and reduce the emission intensity of its GDP by 45% over 2005-levels.

2. India may not endorse common BRICS currency

Subject :Economy

Section: External sector

In News: BRICs to develop a serious alternative to the dollar.

Key Points:

• With Russia facing western sanctions, Brazil urged BRICs to develop a serious alternative to the dollar using the combined weight of their economies.
• India is unlikely to endorse a common BRICS currency, as it fears that it would increase China’s dominance in the bloc and also further strengthen the yuan.
• Though India may not block discussions at present as not much movement on the proposed common currency is expected at the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg.
• Why likely to benefit China?
  • In case of the euro the idea was driven by Germany, the largest economy, and the Deutsche mark became more of an intervening currency.
  • China, which is the dominant economy in BRICS, will have major control.
  • The BRICS currency will likely be linked yuan and since yuan is already an international currency and is in the SDR basket, a BRICS currency will bring China closer to realising its dream of internationalising the yuan and challenging the dominance of the US dollar.
• Why a difficult idea?
  • All BRICS members have different economic situations and exchange rate plays a big role in the macroeconomic space to manage volatility, one of the biggest problems would be to determine the value of the currency.
  • To operationalise the proposed BRICS currency, one would need a Central Bank kind of arrangement where China would be taking the decisions.
  • It would be like a fixed exchange situation which members will not be able to manipulate to suit their particular needs.
  • Would also be difficult for BRICS members to have harmonisation of financial rules and regulations, that a common currency calls for, such as the debt-to-GDP ratio, volume of trade and hard currency reserves.
  • The weaker economies in the EU, like Greece and Portugal, suffered so much pain when the Euro was introduced despite the fact that there was free mobility of labour in the region and a strong social security net existed.
  • BRICS is not geographically contiguous nor is there adequate social security for weaker countries to allow their economies to contract by accepting strict debt-to-GDP ratios

3. Govt bolsters onion buffer by additional 2 lakh tonnes

Subject :Economy

Section: Agriculture

In News: Government raises the quantum of onion buffer to 5 lakh tonne this year, after achieving the initial procurement target of 3 lakh tonne.

Key Points:

• Government has announced it will procure an additional 2 lakh tonnes of onion in order to maintain a total buffer stock of 5 lakh tonnes this year and use that for retail intervention.
• The announcement has come a day after the government imposed a 40 per cent duty on the export of onions to improve local supplies and check its prices.
• For the current 2023-24 fiscal, the target for onion buffer was kept at 3 lakh tonnes, which has already been procured. Currently, the same buffer stock is being disposed of in the targeted markets in select states to improve the local availability and check price rise.
• According to the official data, all-India average retail price of onion was ruling 19 per cent higher at Rs 29.73 per kg on Sunday compared to Rs 25 per kg in the year-ago period.
• How it works?
  • The buffer stock is maintained under the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF) to meet any exigencies, if rates go up significantly during the lean supply season.
  • The National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India (NCCF) and the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) have been directed to procure one lakh tonne each to achieve the additional procurement target alongside calibrated disposal of the procured stocks in major consumption centres.
  • Apart from releasing in major markets, onions from the buffer are also being made available to retail consumers at a subsidized rate of Rs 25 per kg through retail outlets and mobile vans of NCCF from August 21 in key markets.
• Opposition:
  • Growers in Maharashtra have threatened to agitate against the Centre’s move to release onion from the buffer stock of 3 lakh tonnes created this year.
  • Their view is that this move will hurt the return on their crops.

4. CCI staring at lack of quorum logjam again

Subject :Polity

Section: National Body

In News: Absence of quorum affecting work at CCI, especially with regards anti-profiteering under GST

Key Points:

• Absence of quorum affecting work at CCI, which also includes major matters including mergers & acquisition (M&A) anti-profiteering matter (GST).
• Section 8 of the Competition Commission Act says the Commission shall consist of a chairperson and not less than two and not more than six other members to be appointed by the central government.
  • As of date, CCI has just two members, with one member acting as chairperson, which means no quorum is possible, making it difficult for CCI to take up anti-profiteering matters.
  • Even in the previous regime to deal with anti-profiteering, CGST rule prescribed a minimum of three members of the Authority (erstwhile NAA or National Anti-Profiteering Authority) to constitute quorum at its meetings.
  • Section 22 of the act necessitates a quorum of three members for such meetings of the commission.
• M&As on hold
  • As CCI does not have the requisite quorum to transact business. This has put several M&As on hold and also impacted the time-bound resolution process of several companies under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code as many such cases are referred to the CCI by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).
  • One of the key mandates of CCI is to review combinations (M&As) and if this is not done within 210 days then the transaction is deemed approved.
• National Anti-Profiteering Authority (Now CCI)
  • NAA ceased to exist on December 1 2022, and it was decided that all profiteering-related matters would be examined by CCI.
  • NAA was set up after the introduction of GST, initially for two years, which was extended twice subsequently.
  • Section 171 of the CGST Act deals with anti-profiteering measures and prescribes that any reduction in the rate of tax on any supply of goods or services or the benefit of input tax credit shall be passed on to the recipient by way of a commensurate reduction in prices. In this regard, complaints can be filed with the NAA. Now the task is with CCI.
• The Central Government, on the recommendations of the Goods and Services Tax Council, empowers the Competition Commission of India, established under sub-section (1) of section 7 of the Competition Act, 2002, to examine whether input tax credits availed by any registered person or the reduction in the tax rate have actually resulted in a commensurate reduction in the price of the goods or services or both supplied by him
• Even after three months of taking over to deal with anti-profiteering under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) mechanism, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) is yet to dispose of a single matter.
• The fundamental issue of what would constitute “commensurate reduction in price” and various methods employed by companies like increasing grammage, practice of zeroing etc. would continue to remain disputed before various High Courts.

5. What a slowing China means for India

Subject :Economy

Section: External sector

In News: Government has initiated work on drafting policies to make India a global hub for sourcing sustainable and circular textiles and garments.

Key Points:

• The latest economic data show that the world’s second largest economy has slipped into deflationary mode.  Both retail sales and industrial production missed forecasts in July.
  • According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), retail sales in July grew 2.5 per cent year-on-year, compared to a 3.1 per cent in June, and value-added industrial output expanded by 3.7 per cent y-o-y, slowing from the 4.4 per cent growth witnessed in June.
  • China’s exports fell by 14.5 per cent in July compared with a year earlier, while imports dropped 12.4 per cent.
  • And overall unemployment rate had risen to 5.3 per cent in July. Youth unemployment, a keenly watched indicator, hit a record 21.3 per cent in June.  China’s debt is now estimated at 282 per cent of GDP, which is more that of the US.
• The most worrying aspect is shrinking domestic demand. The prices of apartments and a range of goods and services have fallen, with the Consumer Price Index-based inflation dropping by 0.3 per cent after flatlining (i.e. – 0.3 %) in June.

Why China facing deflation?

• • Chinese economy is currently facing a crisis of confidence. Several factors has led to this.
  • The major one is the near collapse of the decades long debt-fuelled housing sector, which contributes to about 30 per cent of China’s GDP.
  • The country’s protracted and stringent lockdown — shutting schools, offices, parks, etc — all but choked the domestic economy.
  • It created global supply-chain upheavals as well. These, along with geopolitical tensions, triggered manufacturing relocations, weakening domestic growth and consumer spending further.
  • Government’s crack down on its vibrant tech sector – video gaming, edtech, e-commerce — on the grounds that the tech companies were getting too big and powerful. This has resulted in huge losses of revenues and jobs, as many of these firms had to downsize or shut shop.
  • Amidst the declining and uncertain economic environment, Chinese investors and households are cutting back on spending, leading to a deflationary situation.
• Impact on the world economy?
  • A slowdown in China will affect global demand. Not only is China the world’s largest manufacturing economy, but it is also the largest consumer of key commodities. It accounts for almost half of the world’s metal consumption.
  • A cut in prices of Chinese manufactured goods could impact employment by way that it could hit investment by businesses.
  • A period of falling prices in China could also hit company profits and consumer spending. This may then lead to higher unemployment overall.

Is a slowing China good or bad for India?

• India is hoping to compete with China as a major player in the global supply chain and as a manufacturing hub. It has unveiled schemes like PLI (Production Linked Incentive) to boost domestic manufacturing. India’s China plus strategy can get a boost if Chinese exports taper down.
• If China begins exporting base metals and other commodities at reduced prices, due to slowing demand, it could benefit our manufacturers. On the other hand, if Chinese producers begin cutting back on production of metals and other commodities due to slowing domestic demand, it will push commodity prices higher.
• If investment in the Chinese economy is lowered owing to the increasing slowing rate of their economy, and now deflation, India could potentially emerge and take over as the manufacturing hub for the developed economies. This is also something the developed countries seem to have been pushing for in a bid to eliminate the monopoly-like hold China has over the manufacturing sector (China plus strategy).

6. Gene-edited mustard

Subject :Science and tech

Section: Biotechnology

Context: Recently, Indian scientists developed the first ever Gene edited low-pungent mustard that is pest and disease-resistant.

More about the news:

• Indian scientists have developed the first ever low-pungent mustard that is pest and disease-resistant. It is based on CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, while being non-GM and transgene-free.

What are the issues with Mustard seeds:

• Mustard seeds are rich in glucosinolates, a class of compounds containing sulphur and nitrogen, which lend their characteristic pungency to both the oil and meal derived from these seeds.
• Rapeseed meal, a byproduct of oil extraction, is unpalatable to poultry and pigs. It must be mixed with fodder grass and water before being fed to cattle and buffaloes.
• The presence of high levels of glucosinolates not only reduces feed intake in livestock but can also lead to goiter (neck swelling) and internal organ abnormalities.
• In India, the dry seeds of standard mustard (Brassica juncea) contain around 120-130 parts per million (ppm or mg/kg) of glucosinolates. In contrast, canola seeds contain notably lower levels, around sub-30 ppm.”

What is this Gene Editing breakthrough:

• The synthesis of glucosinolates takes place within the leaves and pod walls of mustard plants.
• Transferring and accumulating these compounds in the seeds is orchestrated by glucosinolate transporter (GTR) genes.Two distinct classes of these genes, GTR1 and GTR2, encompass a total of 12 genes with six copies each.
• In a significant breakthrough, researchers employed CRISPR/Cas9, a gene-editing tool leveraging an enzyme functioning as ‘molecular scissors,’ to precisely cleave the DNA at targeted locations in 10 out of the 12 GTR genes. This process activates the natural DNA repair mechanism, rendering the encoded proteins responsible for glucosinolate transport to seeds non-functional.
• By accomplishing this, the scientists have produced mustard lines with diminished glucosinolate content to match the concentration in dry seeds, thereby achieving oil and meal quality akin to canola-quality rapeseed (Brassica napus) in terms of pungency.
• Notably, these new mustard lines edited with GTR genes are free of transgenes, rendering them non-genetically modified (GM). They lack foreign genes commonly found in other genetically modified organisms, such as Bacillus thuringiensis bacteria genes in cotton or Bar-Barnase-Barstar genes from other soil bacteria present in GM hybrid mustard (DMH-11)

What is difference between Genome editing and Genetically modified organisms:

• The fundamental contrast between genome editing and genetic modification lies in their mechanisms.
• In genome editing, foreign genetic material isn’t introduced; instead, targeted modifications are made within the organism’s own genome.
• In contrast, genetic modification involves the introduction of external genetic material, potentially from unrelated species, to confer specific traits.

What is Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC)

• The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) functions in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).
• It is responsible for appraisal of activities involving large scale use of hazardous microorganisms and recombinants in research and industrial production from the environmental angle.
• The committee is also responsible for appraisal of proposals relating to release of genetically engineered (GE) organisms and products into the environment including experimental field trials.
• GEAC is chaired by the Special Secretary/Additional Secretary of MoEF & CC and co-chaired by a representative from the Department of Biotechnology (DBT). Presently, it has 24 members and meets every month to review the applications in the areas indicated above.

Some more facts:

• Use of the unapproved GM variant can attract a jail term of 5 years and fine of Rs 1 lakh under the Environmental Protection Act, 1989.
• Import of any GM material is governed by the Environment Protection Act 1985. 
• GM import proposals are examined by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) under the Environment Ministry for making a recommendation to either accept or reject the proposal.

7. Xenotransplantation

Subject :Science and technology

Section: Biotechnology

Context: After decades of failed attempts, last year, University of Maryland surgeons tried to save a dying man with a pig heart — and he survived for two months.

What is Xenotransplantation:

• Xenotransplantation is any procedure that involves the transplantation, implantation, or infusion into a human recipient of either
  • Live cells, tissues, or organs from a nonhuman animal source, or
  • Human body fluids, cells, tissues, or organs that have had ex vivo (outside of the living body) contact with live non-human animal cells, tissues, or organs.

Why Pigs are popular candidates for organ transplantation.

• Pigs are increasingly becoming popular candidates for organ transplantation.
• Pigs offer advantages over primates for organ procurements, because they are easier to raise and achieve adult human size in six months.
• The pig’s anatomical and physiological parameters are similar to that of humans, and the breeding of pigs in farms is widespread and cost-effective.

Process of Xenotransplantation:

Some breakthrough in Xenotransplantation:

• In 2017, Chinese surgeons reportedly transplanted pig cornea to restore sight in a human.
• In 2020, US experts attached a genetically-altered kidney to a brain-dead person.

8. Hurricane Hillary

Subject :Geography

Section: Physical Geography

Context: Hurricane Hilary is set to become the first tropical storm to hit Southern California in more than 80 years.

More about the news:

• Hurricane Hilary is on the verge of making an extraordinary mark as the first tropical storm to make landfall in Southern California in over eight decades.
•  The National Weather Service (NWS) reports a historical trend wherein approximately five hurricanes typically hit the US coastline within a span of three years, but none have ventured towards the western coast.
• Consequently, the impending arrival of Hurricane Hilary, rapidly approaching Southern California and Mexico, stands as a highly uncommon and notable occurrence.
• As per latest estimates, the hurricane will make landfall in the Baja peninsula in Mexico, roughly 330 km south of the port of Ensenada.

What is Hurricane:

• A hurricane is a powerful and destructive tropical storm characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and low atmospheric pressure.
• Hurricanes are also known as cyclones or typhoons in different parts of the world.In the Atlantic Ocean and eastern North Pacific, they are called hurricanes, while in the northwestern Pacific, they are referred to as typhoons, and in the South Pacific and Indian Ocean, they are known as cyclones.

Key characteristics of hurricanes:

• Low Pressure Center
  • Hurricanes have a well-defined centre of low atmospheric pressure, known as the eye.
  • The eye is typically calm and clear, with light winds, surrounded by a ring of intense thunderstorms called the eyewall.
• Strong Winds
  • Hurricanes are known for their powerful winds that can reach sustained speeds of at least 74 miles per hour or higher.
• Heavy Rainfall
  • Hurricanes produce heavy rainfall, which can lead to flooding, landslides, and storm surges
• Formation
  • Hurricanes form over warm ocean waters when the sea surface temperature is typically above 26 degrees Celsius.
  • Warm, moist air rises from the ocean’s surface, creating an area of low pressure.
  • As the air cools and condenses, it releases heat, which fuels the storm’s development.
• Categories
  • Hurricanes are categorized on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale based on their maximum sustained wind speeds.
  • The scale ranges from Category 1 (weakest) to Category 5 (strongest), with each category representing a higher wind speed and potential for damage.

Why Hurricane Hillary is so rare:

• Nature of the ocean:
  • The Pacific coast rarely experiences tropical storms or hurricanes due to the characteristics of the ocean.
  • For hurricanes to form, ocean waters must be above 26 degrees Celsius (78.8 degrees Fahrenheit).
  • Ocean temperatures below this threshold hinder hurricane formation or cause rapid weakening when storms pass over cooler waters.
  • While warm temperatures prevail during hurricane season along the US east coast, the Pacific’s west coast remains significantly colder.
  • The Atlantic’s warm equatorial waters are transported northward along the US coast via the Gulf Stream.
  • Conversely, the Pacific’s cold current brings cooler waters from higher latitudes towards equatorial regions, making hurricanes less likely.
• Vertical wind shear:
  • Vertical wind shear refers to changes in wind speed with altitude in the Earth’s atmosphere, particularly in the upper levels.
  • This plays a critical role in hurricane formation, as hurricanes can extend up to 16 km into the atmosphere.
  • Strong upper-level winds inhibit hurricane formation by disrupting the storm’s structure, displacing warm temperatures above the eye, and limiting vertical ascent of air parcels.
  • Eastern Pacific winds tend to have stronger wind shear compared to the Gulf of Mexico, leading to fewer hurricanes along the western coast.
• Influence of wind steering patterns:
  • Trade winds are significant in directing hurricanes towards the US east coast, while deflecting them away from the west coast.
  • Hurricanes originating in the eastern Pacific, often near central Mexico’s coastline, typically follow a west-northwest trajectory that takes them away from the coast.

9. Brazil found the last survivors of an Amazon tribe

Subject :Geography

Section: Physical Geography

Who are Piripkura:

• The Piripkura are an indigenous tribe that resides in the Amazon rainforest of Brazil.
• They are among the last known nomadic hunter-gatherer tribes of the Amazon rainforest.
• They are known for their extreme isolation and limited contact with the outside world.
• The Piripkura territory is located in the Mato Grosso, Brazil.
• The Piripkura tribe is estimated to consist of only three individuals.

Some other tribes of Amazon Rainforest:

• Yanomami: The Yanomami are one of the largest indigenous groups in the Amazon. They live in the rainforests of Brazil and Venezuela. Known for their complex social structure and shamanistic practices, they have faced significant threats from diseases brought by outsiders and illegal mining activities.
• Kayapo: The Kayapo people are found in the Brazilian states of Pará and Mato Grosso. They are known for their vibrant traditions, including body painting and intricate beadwork. The Kayapo have been involved in environmental and land rights activism to protect their territory from deforestation and mining.
• Ashaninka: The Ashaninka inhabit parts of Peru and Brazil. They have a strong cultural identity and have played a role in advocating for their rights and protecting their land against logging and illegal coca cultivation.
• Tukano: The Tukano live in the Upper Amazon region of Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela. They are known for their spiritual practices and sophisticated knowledge of the rainforest ecosystem.
• Awá: The Awá are considered one of the world’s most endangered tribes due to threats from illegal logging, mining, and other encroachments. They reside in the Brazilian state of Maranhao.
• Waiapi: The Waiãpi live in the Brazilian state of Amapa. They have a deep connection to their ancestral lands and have faced challenges from mining activities on their territory.
• Matses: The Matses inhabit the border region of Brazil and Peru. They are known for their traditional knowledge of plants and medicine, and they maintain their way of life through hunting, fishing, and gathering.
• Xavante: The Xavante people live in central Brazil. They have a strong cultural identity and have faced historical challenges related to land loss and assimilation efforts.
• Bora: The Bora people inhabit the Peruvian and Colombian Amazon. They are known for their intricate weaving and vibrant art forms.
• Awa-Guaja: Also known as the Guaja, they live in the Brazilian state of Maranhão. They are known for their unique language and have faced threats from illegal logging and land invasion.

10. What are Acoustic Side Channel Attacks and how is AI used to increase its accuracy?

Subject :Science and technology

Section: Space technology

Introduction

• Research paper: “A Practical Deep Learning-Based Acoustic Side Channel Attack on Keyboards”
• Published and supported by the ethics committee of Durham University, U.K.
• AI used to decode passwords by analyzing sound from keystrokes
• Highlighted accuracy of Acoustic Side Channel Attacks (ASCA) using deep learning models for laptop keystrokes classification and mitigation

Understanding ASCA

• Side Channel Attacks (SCAs) method for hacking cryptographic algorithms
  • Analyzing auxiliary systems
  • Collecting signals: electromagnetic waves, power consumption, mobile sensors, sound from keyboards, printers
• ASCA: using keyboard sound to analyze keystrokes and leak sensitive information
• Users underestimate the misuse of keyboard sound, not hiding keystroke sounds

Impact of AI on ASCAs

• AI and deep learning increase the risk of side channel attacks
• Laptop models with same keyboard increase ASCA scope
• More microphones near keyboards due to modern technology
• AI-enabled deep learning models can interpret acoustics

Accuracy of ASCA Attacks

• Research by Cornell University, Durham University, University of Surrey, Royal Holloway University of London
• Used audio recordings from Zoom calls, smartphone mics, off-the-shelf equipment
• ASCA attack accuracy: 95% with nearby phone keystrokes
• Deep learning model achieved state-of-the-art accuracy on MacBook Pro keyboard
• Smartphone microphone data achieved 95% accuracy, dropped to 93% with Zoom calls

Historical Context of ASCA Attacks

• ASCA attacks date back to 1950, using acoustic emanations to crack encryption

1982: United States NSA declassified documents listing acoustic emanations as compromise source

11. The harsh realities of space that Chandrayaan 3 is built to brave

Subject :Science and technology

Section: Space technology

The Solar Wind and Spaceflight Challenges

Solar Wind and Earth’s Magnetic Field

• The sun’s scorching hot surface emits a constant stream of charged particles known as the solar wind.
• Solar wind includes protons and electrons moving at high speeds.
• Earth’s magnetic field deflects and guides solar wind particles toward the magnetic poles.
• Interaction of solar wind particles with oxygen and nitrogen in Earth’s upper atmosphere leads to collisions.
• Oxygen and nitrogen atoms absorb electrons, releasing excess energy as photons (light) of different frequencies.
• Oxygen contributes to green and orange hues, while nitrogen contributes to blues.
• These interactions create the mesmerizing phenomenon of the northern lights.

Vulnerability of Spacecraft

• Unlike on Earth, spacecraft lack natural protection from solar wind and other space hazards.
• Spacecraft equipment must withstand impacts from solar wind particles to avoid catastrophic failure.
• Example: Canada’s Anik E2 satellite experienced complete malfunction due to solar wind impact in 1982.

Solar Wind Effects on Electronics

• Displacement Damage
  • Result of charged particles displacing atoms in electronic chips.
  • Leads to permanent chip performance decay.
  • Caused by strong impacts from solar wind particles.
• Single-Event Transients (SET)
  • Temporary signal fluctuations due to solar wind particles.
  • Corrupts transmitted messages momentarily.
  • Example: Belgium’s 2003 election – a bit flip in a voting machine led to miscounted votes.

Radiation-Hardened Electronics

• Engineers develop radiation-hardened electronics to safeguard spacecraft electronics from radiation effects.
• Radiation-hardened design considers radiation levels during chip design, manufacturing, and packaging.
• Multiple layers of protective measures are integrated into software and hardware components.
• Triple modular redundancy (TMR) involves transmitting three identical signal copies.
• In signal corruption (single-event transients), other uncorrupted signals can outvote the corrupted one.

Other Challenges and Safeguards

• Instruments onboard spacecraft must withstand vibrations during launch from the launchpad.
• Severe vibrations experienced during the launch process can affect instrument functionality.

Temperature Fluctuations and Material Challenges

• Spacecraft in space face extreme temperature fluctuations.
• Chandrayaan 3’s operational temperature range is -200°C to 200°C, depending on its position relative to the Moon and the Sun.
• Extreme temperatures can lead to wire breakage, solder failure, and chip cracking.
• Copper materials in solar panels can become more ‘active’ and seep through solar cells, affecting efficiency.
• Outgassing occurs when some materials release trapped air molecules in a vacuum.
• Example: Outgassed air molecules can deposit on a camera lens, affecting image quality.

Metal Coatings and Unexplained Problems

• Some metal coatings form electrically conductive protrusions called whiskers.
• Whiskers can short circuits and lead to satellite failures.
• Whisker growth is attributed to built-up stress in the metal during vacuum conditions.
• Expert selection and application of metal coatings are essential to prevent whisker-related issues.

12. Panel calls for uniformity in tenure, the selection process of heads of various academies

Subject :Polity

Section: National body

Context

• A Parliamentary Standing Committee’s (Department Related Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture) recommendations for uniformity in tenures and selection processes for heads and governing bodies of autonomous institutions under the Ministry of Culture.

Current Discrepancies

• Chairman of Sahitya Akademi is currently elected, while the appointment process for other institute heads and governing bodies varies.
• Varied terms of office, e.g., 3 years for Lalit Kala Akademi, 10 years for Kalakshetra Foundation.
• Lack of fixed guidelines for Governing Council membership, meetings, etc.
• Absence of people’s representatives in the Governing Council of the Akademis.
• The presence of regional centres of National Akademis across states is uneven.
• The Committee observed that a significant proportion of posts across National Akademis remain vacant.
• Lack of an integrated promotion of arts and culture by the National Akademis.

Recommendations

• Government to formulate a policy emphasising uniformity among Akademis, covering:
  • Tenure of chairman or resident
  • Representation and election of the general council
  • Minimum number of annual meetings
• Legislation amendment suggested if needed to ensure uniformity.
• Inter-Akademi co-operation via 
  • establishing formal channels of communication,
  • sharing best practices and resources,
  • initiation of joint research projects,
  • exchange programmes, and
  • joint application for funding.
• Committee emphasizes systematic and proactive approaches to governance.
• Focus on enhancing transparency, accountability, ethical conduct, and integrity within these institutions.
• Inclusion of MPs
  • Suggestion to include one Member of Parliament on the Governing Board of each Institution.
  • Drawing inspiration from models like All India Institute of Medical Sciences.
  • MPs would provide assistance, contribute ground reports, and enhance the working of Akademis.

National Akademis

National Akademis are autonomous bodies instituted to promote various art forms and cultures. They operate under the administrative supervision of the Ministry of Culture. 

They are:

13. SC judgement delivered four decades ago counters President’s Rule in J&K

Subject :Polity

Section: Federalism

Introduction

• A Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court delivered a one-page judgement 42 years ago, challenging the Centre’s claim of “breakdown of constitutional machinery” leading to President’s rule in Jammu and Kashmir.
• The case is linked to former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi.

1971 Judgement

• The verdict, given in Thiru K.N. Rajagopal versus M Karunanidhi, stated that
  • when a Governor dissolves a State’s legislative Assembly and assumes State powers, the President can’t take over under Article 356 claiming “failure of constitutional machinery.”
  • given by Chief Justice S.M. Sikri

Governor’s Actions in J&K and Abrogation of Article 370

• In Jammu and Kashmir, the Governor dissolved the State legislative assembly on November 21, 2018, under Section 53(2) of the J&K Constitution.
• Proclamation of President’s rule under Article 356 followed on December 19, 2018, approved by Parliament on January 3, 2019.
• President’s rule extended for six months from July 3, 2019.
• On August 5, 2019, the President introduced Article 367(4) to replace ‘Constituent Assembly of the State’ with ‘Legislative Assembly of the State‘ in the proviso to Article 370(3).
• President declared Article 370’s cessation.
• Parliament abolished Article 370 and reorganized Jammu and Kashmir.

Legal Arguments

• argued that the President’s claim of “breakdown of constitutional machinery” was absurd when the Governor held State powers after dissolving the assembly.
• Article 356 is not applicable when an assembly is dissolved as there’s no failure of constitutional machinery.
• He referenced S.R. Bommai case, stating Article 356 aims to restore normalcy to a State, not eliminate it.

President’s Rule Explained:

• Initiation: President’s Rule, known as a “State Emergency” or “Constitutional Emergency”, arises when state governance falters constitutionally.
• Basis: Article 356 obliges the Centre to ensure state governance follows the Constitution; Article 365 empowers the President if a state fails to comply with the Centre’s directions.
• Declaration: President can act on the governor’s report or independently under Article 356; Article 365 can be invoked if a state disregards the Centre’s directions.
• Approval & Duration: Proclamation must be ratified by both Houses within 2 months; the initial period is 6 months, extendable up to 3 years with Parliament’s consent every 6 months.
• Extensions: After 1 year, requires nationwide or state-level National  Emergency and Election Commission’s certification of election impracticality. (44th Amendment Act of 1978 )
• Ramifications: President obtains unique powers: taking over state functions, suspending legislature, and declaring the state’s powers vested in Parliament.
• State Governance: Chief minister-led council is dissolved; the state governor administers aided by the chief secretary or appointed advisors.
• Legislative Role: Parliament passes state bills and budgets; laws enacted by Parliament, President, or specified authorities persist even after revocation till state assembly repeals.

High Court & President’s Rule: The state high court’s role remains intact, unaffected by the imposition of the President’s Rule.

14. Kerala Bus Driver’s Reprieve in Fatal Accident Case – SC Verdict

Subject :Polity

Section: Msc

Background 

• A Kerala bus driver attributed a fatal accident to his “deformed left wrist“
• The accident resulted in the deaths of five passengers and injuries to 63 others.

Supreme Court Decision

• Bench led by Justice B.V. Nagarathna pronounced the verdict.
• Driver’s prison term reduced from 5 years to 1 year. (Reprieve)
• Bus owner was ordered to pay ₹7.5 lahks for distribution among the victims’ families.

Trial Court and High Court Views:

• Trial court found the unlicensed driver at fault due to lack of a valid licence.
• High Court saw the punishment as a deterrent for speeding drivers and proportionate.

Supreme Court’s Appellate Jurisdiction: 

• The Supreme Court replaced the British Privy Council, becoming the top appellate court after the Federal Court of India. It reviews appeals in four key areas:

1. Constitutional Appeals (Article 132)
2. Civil Appeals (Article 133)
3. Criminal Appeals (Article 134)
4. Special Leave Appeals (Article 136)

• Parliament can grant additional powers to Supreme Court to hear appeals against High Court judgments. The Court’s jurisdiction is wide, yet exercised cautiously in extraordinary situations, as defined by the Court itself.

High Court’s Appellate Jurisdiction: 

• Civil Matters: Within civil matters, the High Court is empowered to consider appeals if the sum in dispute is no less than INR 5000 and the case involves property of equivalent value.
• Criminal Appeals: In criminal scenarios, the High Court can entertain appeals when a Session Judge issues a conviction leading to a four-year jail sentence.
• Death Penalty Decisions: When it comes to criminal cases, the authority to impose the death penalty rests with a Session Judge at the district level. However, such a grave sentence necessitates validation from the High Court.
• Revenue Disputes: For a majority of revenue-related disputes, the High Court possesses the jurisdiction to hear appeals contesting decisions rendered by lower courts.
• Constitutional and Legal Interpretation: Any instance entailing the interpretation of constitutional provisions or laws permits the filing of an appeal before the High Court.
• Tax Matters: The High Court can deliberate on appeals concerning income tax, sales tax, and other forms of taxation.

15. Pulses Prices May Spiral as Deficient Rain Mars Sowing

Subject :Geography

Section: Economic geography

Context

• Impending risk of rising pulse prices due to deficient monsoon affecting sowing.
• Pulses’ inflation surged to 13.3% in July, up from 10.6% in June.
• Vegetables’ prices are cooling, but pulses could cause the next inflation surge.

Impact of Deficient Monsoon on Pulse Sowing

• Sowing area for pulses in the Kharif season decreased by almost 10% compared to the previous year.
• Total sown area for dals, including tur and moong dal, reported at 114.9 lakh hectares.
• Poor and inadequate rainfall adversely affects sowing.
• Sowing of urad decreased by 6.4%, while tur saw a substantial drop of 15.3%
• Prices of pulses like tur dal and moong dal surged by 34.1% and 9.1% respectively in July.
• Lower sowing rates and increased demand contribute to expectations of elevated price levels.

Comparison with Cereals and Rice Sowing

• Cereals and rice sowing experienced a slight increase of 1.6% and 4.3% respectively.
• Favourable sowing conditions and recovery in cereals and rice could help moderate their price rise in the coming months.

Monsoon and Reservoir Levels

• Southwest monsoon precipitation stands at 6% below the long-period average (LPA).
• Several regions, including Central, Southern Peninsula, and East/Northeastern, continue to experience deficient rainfall.
• Reservoir levels at 62% of capacity as of August 17, 2023, compared to 76% during the previous season.

What’s Behind Retail Inflation in India in 2023?

1. Inflation Mutations and Tomato Price Shock
   • Tomato prices impact inflation, leading to potential cascading effects on other vegetables.
   • While core inflation moderates, headline inflation is still anticipated to average above 6% in the second quarter.
2. Global geopolitical tensions contribute to increased prices of agricultural commodities, metals, and energy, influencing core inflation.

Inflation Impact Across States

• Retail inflation exhibits regional disparities across states and Union Territories.
• Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Rajasthan, Manipur, and more witness higher inflation rates than the national average.
• Eastern and Northeastern states demonstrate more favourable inflation rates, while Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh exhibit lower inflation levels.

Crop Classification Based on the growing season

Pulses are grown in all three seasons:

• Kharif: Arhar (Tur), Urd (Blackgram), Moong (Green gram), Lobia (Cowpea), Kulthi (Horsegram), and Moth
• Rabi: Gram, Lentil, Pea, Lathyrus, and Rajmash
• Summer: Greengram, Blackgram, and Cowpea