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‘Event Horizon Telescope’ Confirms Black hole Shadow is ‘Real’.

Event Horizon Telescope Reveals New Insights Into Black Hole

• Scientists have unveiled new details of a colossal black hole 53 million lightyears away first photographed by the earth-wide Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) in 2017. 
• The feat provided the first visual evidence that black holes exist, confirming a fundamental prediction of Einstein’s general relativity.

Key Finding By Event Horizon Telescope 

• Improved resolution & Coverage: Major Event Horizon Telescope findings include improved resolution & Coverage as compared with previous one.
• Valuable insights : into the intricate dynamics near the Event horizon.
• Bright ring & Dark Central Region: They again find a bright ring of the same size, with a dark central region and one side of the ring brighter than the other.
• Asymmetric ring structure: The finding confirmed the presence of an asymmetric ring structure consistent with Gravitational lensing.
• Stable ring formation process: The findings have reaffirmed the Stable ring formation process & other physical characteristics.

About Event Horizon Telescope

• Event Horizon Telescope is a planet-scale array of eight ground-based radio telescopes forged through international collaboration.
• Objective : It was designed to capture images of a black hole.
  • It offers scientists to research new frontiers of the Universe. 
• Technology deployed: The Event Horizon Telescope observations use a technique called very-long-baseline interferometry (VLBI) to capture the images of black holes. 

About Black Hole

• A black hole is a cosmic object with strong gravity that nothing can escape from it, not even light.
• Black Hole Formation: When a massive star runs out of fuel to fuse, blows up, leaving its core to implode under its weight to form a black hole. 
• High Gravity: NASA explains the intensity of a black hole as “20 times the sun’s mass could fit easily in a 16 km ball”. 
• Invisible to Eyes: Since no light can escape, none can bounce back. This makes the black hole invisible to our eyes and telescopes that we rely on. 
• Mass: The mass of small black holes is around 5 to 20 times the mass of the sun (solar mass); for supermassive black holes, it is millions to billions times the solar mass

News Source : The Hindu

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The Union Minister of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj to inaugurate a  pilot project titled ‘Smart Gram Panchayat: Revolution towards Digitization of Gram Panchayat’ 

Smart Gram Panchayat: Govt Launches programme to Digitization of Gram Panchayat in Begusarai District

• The project will be inaugurated at the Paprour Gram Panchayat in Begusarai district in  Bihar to extend PM-WANI (Prime Minister’s Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) Service in Gram Panchayats.
• Begusarai will become the first district where all Gram Panchayats will be equipped with Wi-Fi services under the PM–WANI Scheme 
• The Department of Panchayati Raj, Bihar along with BSNL, will ensure effective execution and operationalization of the project, along with periodic reviews to monitor progress and performance.

Smart Gram Panchayat: Revolution towards Digitization of Gram Panchayat Funding

• The project is funded under the revamped Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA)
• Nodal ministry: Ministry of Panchayati Raj
• Aim: Extension of  the Prime Minister’s Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) service to 455 Gram Panchayats across 37 Blocks in the Districts of Begusarai and Rohtas in Bihar for the Financial Year 2023–24.
• Purpose: To achieve the  vision of an inclusive and empowered Grameen Bharat.
• Significance: It will help to bridge  the rural-urban digital divide and foster accountability and efficiency in local self-governance. 

PM-WANI: Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Communications & Information Technology
• Aim: To enhance the proliferation of public WiFi hotspots to create robust digital communications infrastructure in the country, especially in rural areas.
• PM-WANI Scheme ecosystem: As of 2022,  there are 136 PDO aggregators, 83 app providers, and 132,529 public Wi-Fi hotspots
  • Public Data Office (PDO): It establishes the Wi-Fi Hotspots and provides internet access to users.
  • Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA):  It provides authorisation and accounting services to PDOs.
  • App Provider: It  displays the available hotspots in the phone’s proximity.
  • Central Registry: It is  overseen by the Centre for Development of Telematics,  maintains details of App Providers, PDOs, and PDOAs.

• Benefits: 

• • Deepening  internet penetration especially in rural areas  which could lead to an increase in income opportunities.
  • It can scale up internet access in rural areas, thereby narrowing the digital divide.
  • Additional source of income by  generating jobs in small- and medium-scale sectors.
  • To provide affordable internet access and help boost digital India.

News Source: PIB

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Recently, Project 39A, a Criminal Reforms Advocacy group with the National Law University, Delhi released a report on the Death Penalty in India.

Death Penalty Report 2023: Key Highlights

• Lowest Death Sentence Confirmation Rate in the last 2 Decades: 

  • Appellate courts confirmed the lowest number of death sentences since 2000 in 2023. 
  • Only one death Sentence was confirmed by the High Court in 2023 & Zero by the Supreme Court.

• Fewer Death Sentences, More on Death Row: 

  • In Trial courts 

• • • It issued 28% fewer death sentences in 2023 compared to the previous year. 
    • While, Number of prisoners on death row reached a nearly two-decade high of 561.

• • In High Court : 

    • There has been a 15% decrease in the rate of disposal of death penalty confirmation proceedings at the HCs in 2023. 
    • Nearly 87% (488) of those on death row await judgement from High Courts. 
    • Only 57 death penalty cases were disposed of in 2023, compared with 68 cases in 2022.
  • There was a 45.71% increase in the number of prisoners under death sentence by the end of December 2023, from that in 2016.
• Majority of  crimes related to sexual offenses :  In last 5 years majority of death penalty cases, 120 death sentences imposed by trial courts, more than 50% were for homicidal rapes.
• In terms of geographical distribution, Uttar Pradesh held the highest number of death row prisoners, totaling 119 individuals. 

Key Issues Highlighted in Death Penalty Report 2023

• Non-Compliance with Supreme Court Mandate in Manoj v.State of Madhya Pradesh (2022): 

  • According to the directive, psychiatric and psychological evaluations are required before death sentences but trial courts failed to do so in 86.96% of cases. 

• Non Adherence with the Higher Court’s Scrutiny :

  • All death sentences require confirmation by High Courts, who review both conviction and sentencing. 

• Supreme Court and High Courts in 2023 Suggest Concerns in Acquittal and remand orders:

• • Negligence in Police investigations, 
  • Incorrect convictions, 
  • Questionable assessment of evidence by trial courts, 
  • One case revealed a prisoner wrongly imprisoned for 28 years due to being a minor at the time of the offence. 

Supreme Court Observations on Death Penalty 

• Rarest of Rare Cases: Supreme Court rulings reserved the capital punishment for exceptionally heinous crimes,  as exemplified in the Nirbhaya case.
• Bachan Singh case Framework for Judges: Every death penalty case undergoes a thorough judicial review, weighing both aggravating and mitigating factors.
• Protecting the Right to Life: Courts must interpret laws to safeguard the fundamental right to life, as demonstrated in the Mohd. Arif Ashfaq case.
• Courts Should consider Mitigating Factors: Age, mental illness, and socioeconomic background are crucial considerations for the death penalty, evident in the Santosh Kumar Satishbhushan Bariyar case.
• Fair Trial: Vague accusations cannot justify the death penalty; the prosecution must prove the case beyond reasonable doubt, as affirmed in the M.A. Antony case. 
• Review of Hanging as Execution Method: The Supreme Court has directed the constitution of a committee of experts to re-examine whether hanging as a method of execution in capital punishment is in line with constitutional standards, 40 years after this method was upheld in Deena v. Union of India (1983).

News Source: The Hindu

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Recently, the Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare launched the first phase of the Bi-annual Nationwide Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign for Lymphatic Filariasis elimination. 

About Lymphatic Filariasis: It is a Neglected Tropical and a Vector-Borne Disease.

• Caused by: Lymphatic filariasis is commonly known as elephantiasis, results from parasitic (nematodes (roundworms)) worms transmitted by Culex mosquitoes, infiltrating the lymphatic system and disrupting fluid balance, causing extensive swelling—lymphedema.

• Three Types of Thread-like Filarial Worms causes Lymphatic Filariasis

• • Wuchereria bancrofti– responsible for 90% of the cases
  • Brugia malayi– causes most of the remainder of the cases,
  • Brugia timori– also causes the disease.
• Symptoms: It may be asymptomatic, acute and chronic conditions.
• Treatment: The World Health Organization recommends three drug treatments, known as IDA, a combination of ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine citrate and albendazole.

Lymphatic Filariasis Disease Incidence in India

• The 11 Endemic States: Assam, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, and Gujarat.
• Endemic Districts: Currently, there are 345 lymphatic filariasis endemic districts in 20 states and union territories of the country. 
  • 75% of Mass Drug Administration (MDA) districts are from 5 states Bihar, Jharkhand, UP, Odisha and Telangana. 
    • Despite more than 15-20 rounds of MDA, only 138 districts have closed MDA.

India’s Initiatives for Lymphatic Filariasis Eradication:

• A Five-pronged Strategy: India has recently taken several measures to accelerate progress towards the goal of eliminating Lymphatic Filariasis. The Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare launched an advanced five-pronged strategy for the elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis by 2027.
  • One of the important strategies is ‘Mission Mode India MDA Campaign’ National Deworming Day (NDD) celebrated twice a year on 10 February and 10 August.
• Nationwide Mass Drug Administration Campaigns: India is committed to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis by 2027, three years ahead of the global target using a mission-driven strategy.
• A Collaborative Approach: India is following this collaborative approach through Jan Bhagidaari and the Whole of Government and Whole of Society approach.

Global Efforts For Lymphatic Filariasis Eradication

• Mosquito Control: By using insecticide-treated nets and indoor residual spraying, supplements preventive chemotherapy.
• Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF): GPELF is WHO’s initiative launched in 2000 to eradicate elephantiasis.
  • It targets post-mass drug administration (MDA) surveillance in all endemic countries and ultimately reduces the population needing MDA to zero.
  • It focuses on stopping infection spread and providing essential care to affected individuals. 
  • It aims to alleviate suffering among people affected by the disease through morbidity management and disability prevention (MMDP).
• WHO’s Road Map 2021−2030: It sets global targets and milestones to prevent, control, eliminate or eradicate 20 diseases including elephantiasis.

News Source: PIB

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The Supreme Court dismissed a petition challenging the appointment of Deputy Chief Ministers in the States.

Appointment Of Deputy Chief Minister Not Unconstitutional: SC

• The petition: The appointments of Deputy Chief Ministers violate Article 14 (right to equality) and Article 15 (Right against discrimination on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth) as it is motivated by religion and sectarian considerations.
• Supreme court: A three-judge Bench dismissed the petition and reasoned that a Deputy Chief Minister irrespective of the designation is ultimately a Member of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs) and a foremost Minister in the government.
  • The designation itself does not entitle a person to a higher salary or any other extra-governmental perk, therefore the designation does not breach the Constitution.

Deputy Chief Minister

• No Constitutional Basis: Article 164 (1): The Chief Minister shall be appointed by the Governor and the Governor shall appoint the other Ministers on the advice of the Chief Minister. Therefore there is no mention of a Deputy Chief Minister.

• • The post of Deputy CM is understood as being equivalent in rank to that of Cabinet Minister (in the state). The Deputy CM enjoys the same pay and perks as a Cabinet Minister.
• No legal basis either: The post is a form of a political compromise that often follows the formation of a coalition government. It is a political barter of power in exchange for loyalty across all the key interest groups in the state.
• Present status: At present there are 26 deputy CMs across 14 states with Andhra Pradesh having 5 Deputy CMs 

News Source: The Hindu

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Recently, violence erupted in the city of Haldwani in Uttarakhand’s Nainital district after the administration conducted a demolition drive at the site allegedly on Nazool land.

About Nazool Land

• Nazool land is owned by the government but most often not directly administered as state property. 
• On Lease: The state generally allots such land to any entity on lease for a fixed period, generally between 15 and 99 years. 
  • Option of renewal is also available.

Emergence of Nazool Land

• Origin: During British rule, kings and kingdoms which opposed and revolted against the British, the British would often take their land away from them after defeating them in battle.
• Post-Independence: The British vacated these lands and to be owned by the respective state governments.

Governance of Nazool Land

• For Adjudication: While several states have brought in government orders for the purpose of framing rules for Nazool land, The Nazool Lands (Transfer) Rules, 1956 is the law mostly used for Nazool land adjudication.
• Lease Renewal: By submitting a written application to the Revenue Department of the local development authority. The government is free to either renew the lease or cancel it — taking back Nazool land.

Uses of Nazool Land

• For Public Welfare: The government generally uses Nazool land for public purposes like building schools, hospitals, Gram Panchayat buildings, etc. Several cities in India have also seen large tracts of land denoted as Nazool land used for housing societies, generally on lease.
• Various Purpose: In almost all major cities of India, Nazool land has been allotted to different entities for a variety of different purposes.

News Source: The Indian Express

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According to a Parliamentary panel report, cyber frauds reported on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal have more than doubled in the current financial year till September 2023. 

• Cyber frauds incur a significant loss in both volume and value but its recovery rate is very low.
  • For Example: The recovery rate has been about 10.4 percent of the transactions reported over the last three years – 2020, 2021 and 2022. 

Cyber Frauds

• Cyber frauds are criminal activities which are done on the internet or using digital tools to trick people, businesses, or even governments to make money.
• These crimes aim to acquire sensitive information of the business, people, and government. 

Methods Of Cyber Frauds

• Hacking: Getting into computer systems to get secret information.
• Phishing: Tricking people with fake emails, messages, or websites to steal their personal details.
• Malware: Installment of software to steal information or take control. 
• Identity Theft: Using someone’s personal info to do fraud.
• Social Engineering: Tricking people by gaining their trust to get information from them.

Status of Cyber Crime In India

• The cybercrime rate in India for 2023 was 129 per lakh population, with Delhi leading at 755, followed by Haryana (381), and Telangana (261).
  • Local-origin frauds include customer care, refund-based, and KYC expiry frauds (35%), sextortion (24%), online booking frauds (22%), AePS frauds, and biometric cloning (11%), and Android malware (8%).
  • International-origin frauds consist of investment and task-based scams (38%), illegal loan apps (23%), gaming frauds, and crypto scams (21%), romance scams (11%), and ransomware attacks (7%).

Reasons for Rise In Cyber Frauds

• The primary causes of cyber fraud include rising internet usage, the surge in digitalization and e-commerce, insufficient awareness and education on cybersecurity, and inadequate cybersecurity infrastructure.

Measures To Check Cyber Frauds

• The National Cyber Security Policy 2023: It aims to strengthen India’s cybersecurity and combat cybercrime effectively.
• CERT-In: It coordinates cybersecurity efforts and issues alerts about threats.
• Two-factor authentication: Banks and other financial institutions are implementing two-factor authentication (2FA) for online transactions to enhance security by adding an additional layer of protection.
• Apart from the above steps, the government has taken various measures such as Cyber Surakshit Bharat Initiative, Cyber Swachhta Kendra, Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC), Information Technology Act, 2000 to combat cyber frauds in India. 

Recommendations of Parliamentary Panel Report

• Adoption of multi-pronged approach: The Committee called upon the various ministries involved to focus on preventive measures to ensure that cyber frauds are held under check.
• Empowering India’s Fintech Future: There should be focus on promotion of local Indian players such as BHIM UPI in the fintech universe, as the use of fintech apps is slated to increase for digital financial transactions.

News Source: Thehindubusinessline

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Recently, the Law Commission Published the 286th report on “the management, control, and prevention of epidemic diseases.”

• The Report identified the shortcomings in the existing legal framework, particularly the Epidemic Diseases Act 1897 (EDA) in addressing future epidemics.

What is Epidemic?

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes an epidemic as an unexpected increase in disease cases in a specific geographical area.
  • An epidemic disease doesn’t necessarily have to be contagious.
• Examples: Yellow fever, smallpox, measles, and polio. 

Epidemic Diseases Act 1897

• Definition: Epidemic Diseases Act 1897 is a colonial-era act empowering the state governments to take extraordinary measures to contain the fast spread of the epidemic. It also defines penalties and provides immunity for Law Commission.
• It is a non-statutory, executive body of the Govt of India.
• Aim: To work for legal reforms.
• Historical Background: The colonial body was established in 1834.
• The Law Commission’s mandate is to Examine the existing laws in India and recommend measures for their improvement.
• Advise the government on the modernization of the law.
• Consider and report on any other matter the Govt may refer to.
• Notable contributions: Hindu Marriage Act (1955), Indian Penal Code (Amendment) Act (2013), Decriminalization of Homosexuality report (2020), Uniform Civil Code report (2021). Actions under different sections of the act.
• Aim: To prevent the spread of “dangerous epidemic diseases”.
• History: First enacted to tackle the Bubonic Plague in Mumbai in former British India.
• Provisions of the 1897 Epidemic Diseases Act: The Act has four sections, aimed at preventing the spread of Dangerous Epidemic Diseases.
  • Section 2 empowers state governments/UTs to take special measures and formulate regulations for containing the outbreak. 
  • Section 3 provides penalties for disobeying any regulation or order made under the Act. These are according to section 188 of the Indian Penal Code.
  • Section 4 gives legal protection to the implementing officers acting under the Act.

• Previous Implementation of  Epidemic Diseases Act 1897

  • In 2009, it was invoked to combat swine flu in Pune.
  • In 2015, it was invoked in Chandigarh to deal with malaria and dengue.
  • In 2018, it was invoked in Gujarat to contain the spread of Cholera.
  • In 2020, it was invoked across the country to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Limitations of Epidemic Disease Act 1897

• Lack of Clear Demarcation of Powers: The report highlighted no clear distinction between the powers of the center, state, and local authorities during an epidemic and suggested measures to resolve them.
• Limited Scope: The act primarily focuses on containment measures rather than prevention or long-term public health intervention. It does not address crucial aspects like disease surveillance, research, and strengthening healthcare infrastructure.
• Inadequate Compensation: The act does not have clear provisions for providing compensation to individuals or communities affected by measures taken under its ambit.
• Outdated Provisions: The act was drafted in the colonial era and does not fully reflect current medical knowledge, ethical considerations, and human rights norms. Some of its provisions are outdated in the present context.
• Limited Judicial Review: The act provides limited scope for judicial review of actions taken under its authority. This can restrict the ability of individuals to challenge arbitrary or excessive use of power.
• Potential for Abuse: Being a colonial-era legislation, the EDA has great potential for abuse due to its lack of clear guidelines on important subjects.

Way Ahead: Law Commission Recommendations

• Creation of an Epidemic Plan and Standard Operation Procedure: The central govt can create an Epidemic plan in collaboration with state governments after consulting the ministries concerned, private health institutions, and other stakeholders.
  • Three Stage Measures: The commission recommended three stages of the spread of infectious diseases as well as the responses at each stage.
    • First Stage: The states should be empowered to take “sufficient measures” in line with the epidemic plan, including preventive measures at the micro level.
    • Second Stage: It should take place during the Interstate spread of epidemic diseases. The report suggests the Central govt should have the power to frame regulations based on an epidemic plan and states will comply with those framework.
    • Third Stage: It is followed by “ Extreme Threat from Infectious Disease”. It mentions that if states are unable to contain the spread of infections and there are conflicting guidelines, the Central Government will step in to impose uniform measures, either by itself or by empowering a central agency.
• Epidemic Plan Preparation: EDA must include provisions to ensure that the Epidemic Plan is prepared, enforced, and revised at regular intervals. 
• Essential Components: The report states that the plan should include provisions on quarantine, isolation, and lockdowns, while ensuring that the measures are implemented fairly, without violating the fundamental rights of citizens.

News Source: The Wire and Indian Express

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A paper from scientists from the University of Copenhagen, Denmark published that Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) could collapse between 2025 and 2095 due to the impact of anthropogenic emissions.

• Based on the current rate of emissions, the collapse is likely to occur in the 2050s, the scientists say with 95% confidence in the study published in “Nature Communications”.

What is Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation?

• Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation is a large system of ocean currents that is regulated by differences between salt content, temperature, and water density of oceans. It is also referred to as the “ocean’s conveyor belt” due to its continuous movement of warm and cold water masses throughout the Atlantic Ocean.

• Mechanism of Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation: 

  • Warm Water Transport: AMOC moves warm water from the tropics to the northern Atlantic Ocean basin. 
    • This warm water releases heat to the atmosphere, moderating the climate of Western Europe.
  • Cooling and Density Increase: As the water cools and becomes denser in the North Atlantic, it sinks to the ocean floor.
  • Southward Flow: This deep, cold water then flows southward along the ocean bottom, eventually returning to the tropics to complete the cycle.

Importance Of Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation

• Temperature Regulation: The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation plays a crucial role in regulating global temperatures by transporting heat from the tropics to the poles.
• Influence on Weather Patterns: It also influences regional weather patterns, including rainfall and storm tracks.
• Global Climate Impacts: A slowdown or AMOC collapse could have significant consequences for global climate, including changes in sea level, precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events.

Slowing Down of Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation

• Climate Change: Increased greenhouse gas concentrations lead to warming, impacting water density and stratification, thus potentially weakening the AMOC.
• Melting Glaciers and Ice Sheets: Freshwater influx from melting ice disrupts the salinity balance, reducing the density of surface water and hindering its sinking.
• Changes in Wind Patterns: Shifts in atmospheric circulation patterns, like increased westerly winds, can influence AMOC strength.

Impact of Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation Slow Down

• Altered Regional Climates: A weakened AMOC could lead to cooler winters in Europe and changes in precipitation patterns across the globe.
  • A collapsed AMOC would cause widespread cooling across the northern hemisphere and less precipitation in places such as Europe, North America, China, and some parts of Russia in Asia.
• Sea Level Rise: Weakened circulation could lead to increased sea level rise along the US East Coast and other regions.
• Disruptions to Marine Ecosystems: Changes in ocean currents and temperatures could impact marine life distribution and abundance.

Conclusion

Scientists are continuing to study the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) to better understand its dynamics and how it may be affected by climate change. This research is essential for developing strategies to mitigate the potential impacts of an AMOC collapse.

News Source: DTE

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The first-ever ‘State of the World’s Migratory Species report was launched by the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) at the opening of CMS COP14  in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, Asia.

State of World’s Migratory Species Report 

• Data Set: The report uses robust species data sets from institutions such as BirdLife International, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Living Planet Index (managed by the Zoological Society of London, in collaboration with World Wildlife Fund for Nature).

Key Findings of The Report

• Anthropogenic Pressure: Millions of migratory animal species are in peril because of anthropogenic pressures. Example- Monarch butterflies face risk of extinction due to habitat loss and increasing carbon emissions due to anthropogenic activities.
• Aquatic Ecosystems: They are the worst-hit with 97 percent of migratory fish listed under CMS facing the risk of extinction. 
• Population Decline: 44 per cent (520 species) of CMS-listed species are undergoing population declines. 
• One in five CMS species faces the risk of extinction.

Reasons For Decline in Migratory Species

• Overexploitation: Bycatch is one of the overexploitation factors and is the most concerning threat to seabirds, particularly albatrosses and petrels which are estimated to be killed in the hundreds of thousands due to getting caught in longline and gillnet fisheries.
• Habitat loss, Degradation and Fragmentation: Three out of four CMS-listed species are impacted by habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation.
• Overfishing: Threat to slow-growing sharks, rays and chimaeras.
• Agriculture and Use of Pesticides: The Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in the United Republic of Tanzania and Kenya is experiencing significant pressure from expanding agriculture, settlements, roads and fences.
• Pollution: 
  • Noise Pollution: 
    • Foraging bats use echolocation during their hunt for prey. Anthropogenic noise pollution affects their hunting efficiency. 
    • Noise pollution underwater from shipping vessels results in less feeding among species such as harbour porpoises and killer whales.
  • Light, Plastic and Chemical Pollution: Oil spills and contamination such as lead, mercury, and agricultural pesticides  result in an increased number of birds dying of collisions, affecting their breeding and non-breeding places and foraging locations.
• Threat Category: Aquaculture, non-timber crop production, invasive species, mining etc have also been included under the threat category. 
• Infrastructure Development Barriers: Barriers like dams and river infrastructure prevent migratory fish from reaching their spawning grounds, alter water flow regimes and prevent juvenile fish from dispersing.
• Climate Change: Many migratory species cannot adapt to climate change.
  • Example: Increasing sea surface temperatures, with sea ice shrinking, is expected to reduce the habitat range of many species.

Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS)

• About CMS: It is an environmental treaty of the United Nations that provides a global platform for the conservation and sustainable use of migratory animals and their habitats. It came into force in 1979. It is also known as the Bonn Convention. 
• Objective: This treaty addresses the conservation needs of terrestrial, aquatic, and avian migratory species and their habitats worldwide. 
• Membership: Includes 133 Parties from Africa, Central and South America, Asia, Europe and Oceania. India has also been a party to CMS since 1983.
• CMS has Two Appendices: They cover diverse species of terrestrial and aquatic mammals, reptiles, fish, birds and insects.
  • Appendix I: Comprises migratory species assessed as being in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of their range.

• • Appendix II: Covers migratory species that have an unfavourable conservation status and that require international agreements for their conservation and management, as well as those that have a conservation status which would significantly benefit from the international cooperation that an international agreement could achieve. 

CMS COP 14

• Conference of the Parties (COP): It is the principal decision making body of the Convention.
• Meeting: It meets once every three years and sets the budget and priorities of the following three years (the triennium).
• COP 14: CMS COP14 is the first COP of any global environmental treaty to take place in Central Asia, a region home to many migratory species including the Saiga Antelope, the Snow Leopard, and many species of migratory birds. 
• Slogan: ‘Nature Knows No Borders’.

News Source: Down to Earth

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The Governor of Tamil Nadu declined to deliver the customary address prepared by the state government citing “factual and moral grounds” due to contradictory numerous passages with misleading claims and facts.  

Governor’s Customary Address: Constitutional History

• Time-honoured constitutional convention: In both the UK and India, it’s a time-honoured constitutional convention that the Governor should read the exact speech or special address. Objectives: The address, prepared by the state government has the following objectives. 
  • Summarising the government’s achievements and activities from the previous year.
  • outlining plans for the upcoming session. 
  • presenting policy and legislative proposals for the following year.
• Prior submission of the address by the state: The state government prepares and submits the address to the Governor in advance, and it is customary for the Governor to deliver it without alterations.
• Adoption of the practice: In India, on May 18, 1949, the Constituent Assembly agreed to start following this practice.

Under What Provisions Does President or a Governor Address Legislature?

• Commonly referred to as the President’s or Governor’s Address, it is a constitutional requirement. 
• The Constitution gives the President (Article 87) and the Governor (Article 176) the power to address a sitting of the legislature. 
• The special power is with regard to two occasions. 
  1. To address the opening session of a new legislature after a general election. 
  2. To address the first sitting of the legislature each year.
• A session of a new or a continuing legislature cannot begin without fulfilling this requirement.
• Article 163: According to the Constitution Article 163,  the Governor is bound  to act on the aid and advice of the  state governments on most of the issues. 
• The Governor’s speech to the legislature reflects the government’s vision and policies prepared by the state.

What Are Functions of Governor Concerning Addressing assembly of State?

• Addressing the First session of the house: The Governor speaks at the beginning of the state legislature’s session each year.
• Lead of session in the Absence of Speaker: If the Speaker of the legislative assembly is not present and the Deputy Speaker is, the Governor chooses someone to lead the session.
• Sending messages to the House or Houses: According to article 175, The Governor can also send messages to the Legislature regarding pending bills or any other matters, and the Legislature must promptly address these messages.

Implications: If Governor Refuses/Fails to Deliver Assembly Address?

• Constitutional Duty: According to Justice B N Banerjee of the Calcutta High Court in Andul Gafoor Habibullah v. Speaker, West Bengal Assembly (1966), the Governor cannot refuse to give a speech as it’s a constitutional duty. 
• In Kerala too, Governor Atif  Mohammad Khan read only two paragraphs  – the introduction and the last paragraph. He stopped when paragraph 18 came but to honour the chief minister’s wish,he agreed to read the address. 
• Irregularity, not Illegality: Even though delivering the address under Article 176 is compulsory, the High Court (West Bengal Assembly) stated that if the Governor fails to do so and simply leaves the House after placing the address on the table, it’s considered an irregularity, not an illegality.
  • Article 361 of the Constitution grants Governors full protection from legal actions, as the maker of the Constitution believed that Governors would uphold high standards of honesty and proper behaviour.
• Judiciary’s View Dilemma: The governors cannot refuse to give speech but Article 212 protects governor’s from questioning due to minor procedural irregularities. 
• • As per this article, The proceedings of the House cannot be challenged. 

Centre Issues Mentioned in Governor’s Speech Prepared by State Government 

• The speech drafted by the State government for the Governor contained criticisms of the central government on various matters.
• • Criticisms towards the GST regime
  • Delayed release of funds for the Chennai Metro Rail project.
  • Demand of flood relief funds from the Centre 
  • The speech also expressed opposition to the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act.

News Source: The Hindu

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Recently, the governments of Poland, France and Germany vowed to revive the Weimar Triangle.

Poland, France and Germany Vow to Make Europe Stronger as Fears Grow Over Russia and Trump

• There are concerns that if the former U.S. President Donald Trump returns to power, Russia might become more aggressive in Europe. 
• In response to this, the governments of Poland, France and Germany have vowed to make Europe a security and defence power with a greater ability to back Ukraine.

The Weimar Triangle

• It is a regional alliance/grouping formed by France, Germany, and Poland in 1991 in the German city of Weimar to promote cooperation between them. 

Key Areas Of Cooperation

• Political Dialogue: It is a forum to engage in regular consultations to coordinate their positions on European and global issues.
• Economic collaboration: Initiatives to boost trade, investment, and economic development within the concerned nations are undertaken via this grouping.
• Cultural exchanges: The grouping aims to deepen mutual understanding among the nations via programmes such as town twinning agreements, youth exchange etc.
• Security and defence cooperation: Joint military exercises, intelligence sharing etc are undertaken to address common challenges and contribute to the stability of the European continent within the framework of NATO.
• Contemporary issues: Issues such as energy security, climate change, and technological innovation are also within the purview of the Weimar Triangle.

Challenges Within Weimar Triangle

• Different National Interests: The member countries of Germany, France, and Poland, may have differing national interests and priorities, making it challenging to find consensus on certain issues.
• European Union (EU) dynamics: The Weimar Triangle may be influenced by broader EU policy developments..
• Political Instability: Changes in leadership or political instability within any of the member countries can hinder the cooperation of the Weimar Triangle.
• External Pressures: External geopolitical events can affect the Weimar Triangle’s ability to address regional and global challenges effectively.
  • For  Example-Mr. Trump shocked many in Europe by appearing to invite Russia to invade any NATO member not spending enough on its defence.

News Source: The Hindu

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Context: 

This article is based on the news “NITI Aayog Launches Greening India’s Wastelands with Agroforestry (GROW) Report and Portal” which was published in the PIB. Recently, NITI Aayog launched the Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW) report and portal. 

GROW Initiative: Greening and Restoration of Wasteland With Agroforestry 

• Alignment with National Commitments: The GROW initiative aims to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030.
  • Goal to establish an additional carbon sink capable of sequestering 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.
• GROW Report: The report highlights the potential benefits of converting underutilized areas, particularly wastelands, for agroforestry.
• Technology Involved: Utilized remote sensing and Geographic information system (GIS) for assessing agroforestry suitability nationwide. Promotes the use of space technology in agriculture.
• Development of Agroforestry Suitability Index (ASI): Based on thematic datasets for prioritization at the national level.
• State-wise and District-wise Analysis: Detailed analysis provided in the report to support government departments and industries in greening and restoration projects.
• Bhuvan Portal: The GROW Initiative suitability mapping portal Bhuvan allows universal access to state and district-level data.

About Agroforestry

• Definition: Agroforestry involves integrating trees with crops and/or animals on the same unit of land.
  • Facilitates nutrient cycling and energy flow, enhancing ecological efficiency.
• Current Status of Agroforestry in India: Agroforestry covers 8.65% of India’s total geographical area, approximately 28.42 million hectares.
• Government Prioritization in Union Budget: The Union Budget of the Government of India for FY-2022-23 emphasizes the promotion of agroforestry and private forestry.
• National Agroforestry Policy and Objectives: India introduced the National Agroforestry Policy in 2014.
  • Aim to enhance productivity, profitability, and sustainability through agro-ecological land use systems.
• Diverse Agroforestry Systems in India: Major systems observed include agri-horticulture, silvipasture, and agri-silviculture.
  • Various forms practiced in India include taungya systems, agrisilviculture, and aquaforestry.

Limitations of Agroforestry

• Initial Establishment Costs: Upfront investment required for establishing tree crops or livestock integration includes expenses for seedlings, fencing, irrigation systems, and labor, which may be prohibitive for resource-constrained farmers or communities.
• Longer Gestation Period: Typically have a longer gestation period compared to annual crops. Trees take time to mature and produce yields, delaying returns on investment and requiring patience from farmers. 
• Environment Aspects of Agroforestry: Possible competition of trees with food crops for space, sunlight, moisture and nutrients which may reduce food crop yield.
  • Damage to food crop during tree harvest operation.
  • Potential of trees to serve as hosts to insect pests that are harmful to food crops.
  • Rapid regeneration by prolific trees, which may displace food crops and take over entire fields.

• Socioeconomic Aspects: Requirement for more labour inputs, which may causes scarcity at times in other farm activities;
  • Agroforestry is more complex, less well understood and more difficult to apply, compared to single-crop farms.
• Complexity of Management: Managing diverse components of agroforestry systems, including trees, crops, and livestock, requires specialised knowledge and skills.
• Market Access and Value Chains: Farmers may face challenges in marketing tree products such as timber, fruits, or nuts, especially if there is insufficient infrastructure or demand for these products locally or regionally.
• Land Tenure and Ownership: Unclear land rights or disputes may discourage farmers from investing in long-term agroforestry practices, particularly on communal or disputed lands.
• Environmental and Climatic Factors: Agroforestry systems are susceptible to environmental and climatic factors such as drought, pests, diseases, and extreme weather events. 
  • Wasteland areas have poor soil quality, limited water availability, or may have harsh climatic conditions, which can affect the success and resilience of agroforestry initiatives.

GROW Initiative: Rejuvenation of Wastelands Through Agroforestry

• Addressing Sub-optimal Use of Arable Land: Converts wastelands into productive agroforestry systems, optimizing land use efficiency.
  • Reduces pressure on existing agricultural lands, preserving valuable arable land for food production.
• Livelihood Improvement: Offers diverse income opportunities for rural communities by integrating trees with crops or livestock.
  • Generates revenue through timber, fruits, nuts, and other agroforestry products, enhancing economic well-being.
• Reducing Import Dependency: Promotes indigenous and underutilized tree species to reduce reliance on Wood and Wood Products like imported timber.
  • Develops genetically improved material and practices for higher yields in agroforestry.
• Role in Addressing Global Commitments: Integrates trees, crops, and livestock, addressing challenges like food security and environmental conservation.
  • Aligns with global agreements such as the Paris Agreement, Bonn Challenge, and UN Sustainable Development Goals.
• Environmental Restoration: Agroforestry restores degraded lands by enhancing soil fertility, reducing erosion, and promoting biodiversity. Trees stabilize soil, prevent water runoff, and improve soil structure, mitigating land degradation.
• Climate Change Mitigation: Agroforestry contributes to carbon sequestration, combating global and national climate change.
• Sustainable Resource Management: Contributes to watershed protection, soil conservation and biodiversity conservation.

Way Forward

• Financial and Credit Support: Provide financial incentives, subsidies, and loans specifically targeted at agroforestry projects. Establish microfinance initiatives and cooperative credit societies  and collaborate with financial institutions to develop customized financial products for agroforestry projects.
  • For instance, the World Bank is backing India’s Ecosystem Services Improvement Project (ESIP), which aligns with the objectives of the Green India Mission by showcasing models for adaptation-based mitigation through sustainable land and ecosystem management, along with livelihood benefits.
• Technical Assistance: Establish knowledge-sharing platforms, farmer field schools, and demonstration plots to showcase successful agroforestry models. 
  • For instance, disseminating knowledge created by the Development of Digital Agroforestry Management Information System (DAMIS). 
  • DAMIS will create a geo-referenced database of agroforestry tree species and other species for trees outside forests across different agroclimatic zones.
• Foster Collaboration: Collaboration and coordination among research institutions, agricultural universities, NGOs, and government agencies to pool resources, share knowledge, and facilitate joint research projects on agroforestry. 

• • For instance, Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) could collaborate to extend ecologically sustainable and economically viable integrated agroforestry models to farmers.
• Strengthen Policy Framework: Formulate clear and supportive policies and regulations that recognize and incentivize agroforestry practices. 
  • For instance, regulatory systems could be liberalized to promote cultivation of high-value, long-rotation tree species like teak, mahogany, and sandalwood in agroforestry. 
  • States like Gujarat are allocating government-owned wastelands for cultivation, offering long-term leases to stakeholders.
• Utilization of Modern Technology for Fertility Enhancement: Wastelands can be made fertile for the cultivation through the use of modern technologies such as net house, greenhouse, mulching, and high-density plantation.
• Documentation of Best Practices: Document the best agroforestry practices and develop strategies for their scaling up, focusing on sustainable land and ecosystem management.
  • For instance, poplars, eucalyptus, Casuarina and Melia species along with multi-purpose tree species under dry lands have high potential to improve farmers’ income generation.

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