DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 26th August 2024

 Syllabus

• Mains -GS 2

Context: The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), launched in 2019, has recently completed five years.

Background: –

• The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 15, 2019, with the goal of providing tap water supply to every rural household by 2024. At the time of its inception, only 3.23 crore (17%) of rural households had tap water connections.

Progress Under the Jal Jeevan Mission (as of August 14, 2024):

• As of August 12, 2024, the Jal Jeevan Mission has successfully provided tap water connections to 11.82 crore additional rural households, bringing the total coverage to more than 15.07 crore households, which accounts for 77.98% of all rural households in India. This milestone has significantly impacted rural lives by providing reliable access to potable water at home.
• Household Coverage:07 crore (77.98%) of rural households have been provided with tap water connections.
• ‘Har Ghar Jal’ Status: Achieved in 188 districts, 1,838 blocks, 1,09,996 Gram Panchayats, and 2,33,209 villages.
• JE-AES Affected Regions: Over 2.35 crore households (79.21%) in Japanese Encephalitis (JE)-Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) affected districts now have access to clean tap water.
• States/UTs with 100% Coverage: Goa, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Dadra Nagar Haveli & Daman Diu, Haryana, Telangana, Puducherry, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh.
• Schools and Anganwadi Centers: 9,27,421 schools and 9,63,955 Anganwadi centers have been provided with tap water supply.

The broad objectives of the Jal Jeevan Mission include:

• Providing Functional Household Tap Connection (FHTC) to every rural household.
• Prioritizing FHTC provision in quality-affected areas, drought-prone regions, desert areas, and Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY) villages.
• Ensuring functional tap connections in schools, Anganwadi centers, gram panchayat buildings, health and wellness centers, and community buildings.
• Monitoring the functionality of tap connections.
• Promoting voluntary ownership among the local community through contributions in cash, kind, or labor (shramdaan).
• Ensuring the sustainability of water supply systems, including water sources, infrastructure, and funding for regular operations and maintenance.
• Empowering and developing human resources in the water sector, covering construction, plumbing, electrical work, water quality management, water treatment, catchment protection, and more.
• Raising awareness about the significance of safe drinking water and involving stakeholders to make water everyone’s responsibility.

Components supported under JJM:

• Development of in-village piped water supply infrastructure to provide tap water connections to every rural household.
• Development and augmentation of reliable drinking water sources to ensure long-term sustainability.
• Bulk water transfer, treatment plants, and distribution networks where necessary.
• Technological interventions for contaminant removal in areas with water quality issues.
• Retrofitting of ongoing and completed schemes to provide FHTCs at a minimum service level of 55 liters per capita per day (lpcd).
• Greywater management.
• Support activities such as Information, Education, and Communication (IEC), Human Resource Development (HRD), training, utility development, water quality laboratories, research and development, capacity building of communities, etc.
• Addressing unforeseen challenges due to natural disasters or calamities, as per Ministry of Finance guidelines on Flexi Funds.

Impact of JJM:

• The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that achieving JJM’s goals will save over 5.5 crore hours daily, primarily for women, otherwise spent collecting water.
• WHO projects that ensuring safely managed drinking water for all households in India could prevent nearly 400,000 deaths from diarrheal diseases, saving approximately 14 million Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs).
• Nobel laureate Prof. Michael Kremer’s research suggests that safe water coverage could reduce mortality among children under five by nearly 30%, potentially saving 136,000 lives annually.
• The Indian Institute of Management Bangalore, in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), estimates that JJM will generate 59.9 lakh person-years of direct and 2.2 crore person-years of indirect employment during its capital expenditure phase. Additionally, the operation and maintenance phase could generate 13.3 lakh person-years of direct employment.

Source: PIB

 Syllabus

• Mains GS-3

Context: To address the concerns over the usage of pesticides, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed the formation of an inter-ministerial committee.

Background: –

• The proposal was discussed by the FSSAI’s 44th meeting of the Central Advisory Committee (CAC) between 22 and 23 August. The initiative is aimed at ensuring that agricultural practices remain safe and sustainable, thereby protecting consumers from potential health risks associated with pesticide residues in food.

Pesticides:

• Pesticides are substances used to prevent, destroy, repel, or mitigate pests. They include various chemicals such as herbicides (for weeds), insecticides (for insects), fungicides (for fungi), and rodenticides (for rodents).

Why Indian Farmers Use Pesticides?

• Crop Protection: To protect crops from pests and diseases, ensuring higher yields and better-quality produce.
• Economic Stability: Reducing crop losses helps in maintaining the economic stability of farmers.
• Increased Productivity: Pesticides help in achieving higher productivity per hectare, which is crucial for meeting the food demands of a growing population.

Benefits of Pesticides:

• Higher Crop Yields: Protecting crops from pests leads to increased agricultural productivity.
• Disease Control: Reducing the population of disease-carrying pests helps in controlling outbreaks.
• Economic Benefits: Higher yields and reduced crop losses contribute to economic stability for farmers.

Challenges:

• Environmental Impact: Pesticides can contaminate soil, water, and non-target species, leading to biodiversity loss.
• Health Risks: Exposure to pesticides can cause acute and chronic health issues in humans.
• Resistance: Overuse of pesticides can lead to pests developing resistance, making them harder to control.

Government Initiatives:

• Regulation and Monitoring: The government sets regulations to control the use of pesticides and monitors their impact on health and the environment.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): The government promotes Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices, which combine biological, cultural, and chemical methods to manage pests sustainably. This approach reduces the reliance on chemical pesticides and encourages the use of biopesticide
• National Pest Surveillance System: An Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based platform, the National Pest Surveillance System, has been introduced to monitor pest populations and predict outbreaks. This helps in timely and targeted application of pesticides, reducing overall usage.
• Promotion of Organic Farming: Several states in India have policies and schemes to promote organic farming, which eliminates the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. For example, Sikkim has completely banned the use of synthetic pesticides.
• Food Safety on Wheels (FSWs): FSSAI has deployed mobile labs known as Food Safety on Wheels (FSWs) to enhance food safety awareness and testing capabilities. These mobile labs help in monitoring pesticide residues in food products.

Source: PIB

 Syllabus

• Mains: GS-3

Context:  India’s space sector has directly contributed about $24 billion (₹20,000 crore) to India’s Gross Domestic Product over the last decade.

Background: Contribution of India’s space sector has directly supported 96,000 jobs in the public and private sector. For every dollar produced by the space sector, there was a multiplier effect of $2.54 to the Indian economy and India’s space force was 2.5 times “more productive” than the country’s broader industrial workforce.

India’s space sector:

• India’s space sector is a dynamic and rapidly growing field, primarily driven by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
• ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) is the main agency responsible for India’s space missions. It has achieved significant milestones, including the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) and the Chandrayaan missions to the Moon.

How India’s achievements in the space sector have contributed to the Indian economy?

• Economic Growth
• GDP Contribution: Over the past decade, the space sector has added approximately $60 billion to India’s GDP. This includes direct, indirect, and induced benefits from various space-related activities.
• Investment Multiplier: For every dollar invested in the space sector, an additional $2.54 has been contributed to the national economy. This multiplier effect showcases the sector’s efficiency in generating economic value.
• Job Creation
• Employment Opportunities: The space sector has generated around 4.7 million jobs, supporting both public and private sectors. This includes direct employment in space agencies and indirect jobs in related industries.
• Technological Advancements
• Innovation and Development: The development of advanced satellite technology and launch vehicles has spurred innovation across various industries, including telecommunications, weather forecasting, and navigation.
• Start-up Ecosystem: The space sector has seen a rapid growth of start-ups, contributing to technological advancements and economic diversification.
• International Collaboration and Commercialization
• Global Partnerships: Collaborations with international space agencies and commercial satellite launches have positioned India as a key player in the global space market.
• Revenue Generation: The revenues of India’s space sector have grown from $3.8 billion in 2014 to $6.3 billion in 2023, reflecting the sector’s expanding commercial activities.
• Socio-Economic Benefits
• Fisheries and Agriculture: Satellite-based services have provided critical support to sectors like fisheries and agriculture, enhancing productivity and sustainability.
• Disaster Management: Space technology has improved disaster management capabilities, helping mitigate the impact of natural disasters and saving lives.

Way forward:

• Promoting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education to build a skilled workforce for the space sector.
• Establishing training programs and partnerships with educational institutions to prepare the next generation of space scientists and engineers.
• Developing and implementing policies that support the growth of the space sector, including regulations for satellite launches, space exploration, and commercial activities.
• Establishing a robust legal framework to address issues related to space debris, satellite communication, and international cooperation.
• By focusing on these areas, India can continue to leverage its space sector to drive economic growth, technological innovation, and international collaboration, ensuring a bright future for the country’s space endeavors.

Source: The Hindu

 Syllabus

• Prelims – GEOGRAPHY

Context:  Balkan migrant boat tragedy death toll rises to 12.

Background: The boat, which was carrying between 25 and 30 migrants, capsized while crossing the Drina River from Serbia to Bosnia.

About Balkan Region

• The Balkan region, also known as the Balkans, is located in southeastern Europe.
• It includes countries such as Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, and Slovenia.
• The region is bordered by the Adriatic Sea to the northwest, the Ionian Sea to the southwest, the Aegean Sea to the south, and the Black Sea to the northeast.

Why people are migrating to the Balkan region?

• Economic Opportunities: Many migrants are seeking better economic prospects. The Balkans offer opportunities for work, especially in sectors like agriculture, construction, and services.
• Safety and Stability: Some migrants are fleeing conflict, persecution, or instability in their home countries. The Balkans serve as a transit route for those aiming to reach Western Europe, where they hope to find safety and stability.
• Family Reunification: Migrants often move to the Balkans to reunite with family members who have already settled in the region or are on their way to other parts of Europe.
• Access to Services: Limited access to basic services such as healthcare, education, and housing in their home countries drives some migrants to seek better living conditions in the Balkans.
• Geographical Position: The Balkans are strategically located as a gateway to Europe. This makes the region a key transit point for migrants from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

Source: The Hindu

Syllabus:

• Prelims : GEOGRAPHY

Context: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has clarified that the recent floods in Bangladesh were not caused by the opening of the Dumbur dam on the Gumti River in Tripura.

Background: The MEA stated that the flooding was primarily due to heavy rainfall in the catchment areas of the Gumti River, which flows through both India and Bangladesh. This clarification came after concerns were raised in Bangladesh about the impact of the dam on the flooding situation.

About Gumti river

• The Gumti River also known as Gomati is a significant river flowing through the northeastern Indian state of Tripura and the Comilla district in Bangladesh.
• Origin:
  • The Gumti River originates from Dumur in the northeastern hilly region of Tripura, India.
• Course:
  • It flows through the state of Tripura, passing through towns like Udaipur, before entering Bangladesh.
  • In Bangladesh, it flows through the Comilla district and eventually joins the Meghna River.
• Dumbur Dam:
  • The river is dammed near Dumbur, creating a 40 square kilometers (15 sq mi) lake.
• Tributaries:
  • Major right bank tributaries include Kanchi Gang, Pitra Gang, and San Gang.
  • Left bank tributaries include Ek Chhari, Maharani Chhara, and Ganga.
• Ecological Significance:
  • The river supports the Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary, contributing to the region’s biodiversity.
• Flooding:
  • The river is prone to flash floods, especially during the monsoon season. These floods can cause significant damage to the surrounding areas.

Source: The Diplomat

 Syllabus

• Prelims : CURRENT EVENT

Context: Recently, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has proposed reducing broadband charges for Public Data Offices (PDOs) under the PM-WANI scheme.

Background: This move aims to address the high costs that have been a barrier to the proliferation of public Wi-Fi hotspots.

About PM-WANI (Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) scheme

• The PM-WANI (Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) scheme is an initiative by the Indian government to enhance internet connectivity across the country, especially in rural and underserved areas.
• The PM-WANI (Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) scheme is overseen by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), which is part of the Ministry of Communications.
• This initiative aims to set up public Wi-Fi networks through Public Data Offices (PDOs) to provide affordable and widespread internet access across India.

Objective:

• The primary goal of the PM-WANI scheme is to provide affordable and accessible internet services to the public through a network of public Wi-Fi hotspots.

Key Components:

• Public Data Office (PDO): These are local shops or small businesses that provide Wi-Fi services to users. They do not require a license or registration fee to operate.
• Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA): These entities aggregate multiple PDOs and ensure the delivery of broadband services. They handle the authorization and accounting of PDOs.
• App Provider: Develops an app to register users and discover PM-WANI compliant Wi-Fi hotspots in the vicinity.
• Central Registry: Maintains details of App Providers, PDOAs, and PDOs. Managed by the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT).

How It Works?

• Setup: PDOs set up Wi-Fi access points in public places like shops, cafes, and libraries.
• Access: Users can connect to these Wi-Fi hotspots using an app provided by App Providers.
• Authentication: Users are authenticated through a one-time password (OTP) sent to their mobile phones.
• Usage: Once authenticated, users can access the internet through the Wi-Fi hotspot.

Benefits:

• Increased Connectivity: Enhances internet penetration, especially in rural and remote areas.
• Economic Opportunities: Provides new business opportunities for small businesses acting as PDOs.
• Digital Inclusion: Bridges the digital divide by making internet access more affordable and widespread.
• Ease of Implementation: Simplifies the process for businesses to become PDOs without the need for complex licensing.

Source: Hindu Businessline

Q1.) Consider the following Seas:

1. Caspian Sea
2. Aegean Sea
3. Black Sea
4. Ionian Sea

How many of the above-mentioned seas are located in the Balkan Region?

1. Only one
2. Only two
3. Only three
4. All four

Q2.) Gumti river, recently seen in news located in

1. Assam
2. Tripura
3. Arunachal Pradesh
4. Odisha

Q3.) With reference to the PM-WANI, scheme, consider the following statements:

1. The primary goal of the PM-WANI scheme is to provide affordable and accessible internet services to the public through a network of public Wi-Fi hotspots.
2. The PM-WANI scheme is overseen by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), which is part of the Ministry of Communications.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!!

ANSWERS FOR ’  26th August 2024 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs

Q.1) –  a

Q.2) – d

Q.3) – c