Content:
- The challenge of holding judges accountable
- SRO PSLV-C60 SpaDeX mission launch today
- India shuts down Internet 60 times in 2024, the lowest in eight years
- Security forces faced resurgence in militancy in Jammu region this year
- Centre gets 6.21 lakh applications under PM internship scheme
- ISRO to sign off 2024 with space docking experiment mission today
- Nari Shakti Se Jal Shakti initiative shows how rural women lead India’s fight against water crisis
The Challenge of Holding Judges Accountable
Context – Recent controversy: Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav’s controversial speech at a Vishwa Hindu Parishad event has brought attention to issues of judicial accountability.
Relevance : GS 2(Polity )
Judicial review mechanism:
- The Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968 sets the process for holding judges accountable for misbehavior or incapacity.
- A committee, comprising a Supreme Court judge, a Chief Justice of a High Court, and an eminent jurist, investigates the issue only after a successful impeachment motion in either the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha.
Impeachment process:
- For a judge to be removed, a two-thirds majority vote in Parliament is required.
- Despite this, the process has seen limited success in holding judges accountable.
Past cases:
- Justice V. Ramaswami: Found guilty of extravagantspending on his official residence but remained in office until retirement due to the failure of impeachment in the Lok Sabha.
- Justice Soumitra Sen: Found guilty of misappropriating funds but resigned just before the impeachment motion was to be introduced.
Resignation loophole:
- Judges can resign before impeachment, thereby preventingaccountability and avoiding the consequences of the investigation.
- This immunity is seen as disproportionate compared to elected officials, who cannot evade accountability by resigning.
Forum for Judicial Accountability (FJA) stance:
- Advocates for the continuationofinvestigations even if a judge resigns.
- Argues that investigations are crucial for maintaining public trust in the judiciary.
Institutional challenges:
- Despite calls for reform, the Rajya Sabha Chairperson, Hamid Ansari, rejected the continuation of investigations after a judge’s resignation, highlighting the difficulties in reforming judicial accountability mechanisms in India.
ISRO PSLV-C60 SpaDeX Mission Launch Today
Context : Autonomous Space Docking Technology
- The SpaDeX mission aims to demonstrate and master autonomous space docking technology.
- India will join the exclusive club of countries (U.S., Russia, and China) with space docking expertise.
Relevance : GS 3(Science , Technology )
Mission Overview:
- Two satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), will be launched into a 470 km low-Earth orbit using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).
- The mission will test rendezvous, docking, and undocking technologies.
Crucial for Lunar Missions:
- Mastering docking is essential for future lunar missions like Chandrayaan-4.
- The mission’s precision is particularly challenging due to the small size and mass of the spacecraft.
Space Exploration Advancements:
- The mission will also carry 24 payloads, including experiments that will advance ISRO’s space exploration capabilities.
- It will support missions involving astronauts, sample returns, and advanced space infrastructure.
Boost to Space Startups:
- The mission will also support Indian space startups, with 10 experiments from private universities and startups.
- This opens up opportunities for research and development in space technologies.
Agriculture in Space:
- The mission will include experiments to study seed germination and plant growth in space, particularly focusing on crops like spinach and cowpeas, as part of the Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies (CROPS).
-Source : Live Mint
India Shuts Down Internet 60 Times in 2024, the Lowest in Eight Years
Context :
- India saw 60 internet shutdowns in 2024, the lowest in eight years.
- This marks a decrease from 96 shutdowns in 2023 and a peak of 132 in 2020.
Relevance : GS 2(Governance )
Historical Context:
- 2020 Peak: Highest number of shutdowns due to the abrogation of Article 370 in J&K.
- Shutdowns have been particularly frequent in J&K and Manipur due to political unrest and security concerns.
Recent Trends:
- Reduction in Shutdowns: The reduction is largely seen in J&K and Manipur, suggesting possible administrative stabilization.
- Strategic Shutdowns: Temporary shutdowns were observed in Haryana (Ambala) due to farmer agitations and in Manipur due to law and order situations.
Government’s Stance:
- The government defends shutdowns as necessary for controlling unrest and preventing misuse by anti–social elements.
- Lack of Centralized Data: The Union government does not maintain centralized data on internet shutdowns or assess their economic impact, despite ongoing parliamentary queries.
Digital Rights Concerns:
- Digital rights groups criticize shutdowns for violating freedom of expression and the right to information.
- Shutdowns are often imposed without transparency, with authorities failing to comply with Supreme Court orders to publish them.
Economic Impact:
- Shutdowns have significant economic costs, affecting sectors like tourism, education, healthcare, and business operations.
- The government has not conducted studies to evaluate the economic consequences of internet shutdowns.
Global Criticism:
- India ranks as one of the highest deployers of internet shutdowns globally, drawing criticism from international bodies.
- Persistent shutdowns may strain diplomatic relations, especially with countries prioritizing digital rights.
The Way Forward:
- Policy Reform Needed: Calls for a more structured and transparent approach to internet shutdowns, with defined criteria for their use.
- Independent Studies: The government should commission studies on the social, economic, and political consequences of shutdowns.
- Engagement with Civil Society: Collaboration with digital rights groups to develop balanced policies that safeguard both security and citizens’ digital rights.
Security Forces Faced Resurgence In Militancy in Jammu Region This Year
Context : Resurgence in Jammu Region:
- Jammu region saw a significant rise in militant activity, involving all 10 districts in 2024.
- Security forces faced more casualties than militants in Jammu, indicating a shift in militant tactics, with militants employing more sophisticated training and survival strategies.
- The Pir Panjal Valley, covering Rajouri and Poonch districts, has been a key area of militant resurgence since 2020, the first such occurrence since 2005.
Relevance :GS 3(Internal Security )
Casualty Statistics:
- Jammu Region: 18 security personnel were killed versus 13 militants in about 30 encounters (ambushes and operations).
- Kashmir Region: 55 militants killed, with 10 security personnel dead.
- The Jammu region saw a higher ratio of security personnel killed compared to militants, reflecting a new challenge for security forces.
Militant Tactics and Areas of Operation:
- Militants in Jammu adapted to the region’s terrain, using forested areas and difficult-to-access ridges in Kathua, Reasi, Doda, and Kishtwar districts to avoid detection and launch attacks.
- The militants took advantage of the difficult geography, including out-of-bound passes with no motorable access, for operations.
Militancy-Related Casualties:
- Jammu Region: 14 civilian deaths, including 9 pilgrims killed in Reasi on June 9.
- Kashmir Region: 16 civilian deaths, highlighting an increase in civilian-targeted violence.
- Militants attacked a tunnel project in Ganderbal, resulting in 7 deaths, including 6 laborers and 1 doctor.
Increased Security Measures:
- A special National Security Guard (NSG) unit, known as the Black Cats, was stationed in Jammu for the first time this year to respond to the rising militant threat.
- Chenab Valley: Security forces are on high alert, particularly in Udhampur, Reasi, Doda, and Kishtwar, where over 30 militants are believed to be operating, but only 13 militants were neutralized.
Crackdown on Militants and Supporters:
- Arrests and Actions: 168 locals were arrested under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for supporting militants. Fourteen houses linked to militants and their supporters were attached.
- The crackdown on militants and their supporters has been ongoing, with significant enforcement actions in both Jammu and Kashmir regions.
Impact on Security Forces:
- The Jammu region is facing a challenging environment with militant sleeper cells active in many districts, particularly in areas historically used as infiltration routes.
- Security personnel, including elite PARA units, have suffered high casualties, indicating a shift in the nature of militancy in the region.
Key Attacks and Incidents:
- The Ganderbal attack, which occurred in October 2024, targeted a strategic tunnel project linking Kashmir and Ladakh, signaling a rise in high-profile attacks.
- The Reasi attack in June was another high-profile incident where militants killed pilgrims, adding to the growing civilian casualties.
Long-Term Implications:
- The resurgence of militancy in Jammu suggests a longer–term shift in militancy dynamics, with Jammu, historically seen as an infiltration route, now facing a fully-fledged militant insurgency.
- The operational tactics of militants have evolved, demanding enhanced counter-insurgency strategies and additional resources to combat the growing threat.
Centre Gets 6.21 lakh Applications Under PM Internship Scheme
Applications and Opportunities:
- The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme has received 6.21 lakh applications for 1.27 lakh internship opportunities.
- The selection process for these internships is currently ongoing.
Relevance : GS 2(Schemes )
Scheme Objective:
- The scheme, announced in the Union Budget, is designed to provide internships to one crore youth in the top 500 companies over five years.
- The goal is to expose youth to real-world business environments, across various professions, and create employment opportunities.
Financial Assistance:
- Interns will receive a monthly stipend of ₹5,000 for 12 months.
- ₹4,500 will be provided by the Union government.
- ₹500 will be contributed by the company through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds.
One-Time Grant:
- Interns will also receive a one-time grant of ₹6,000 for incidentals upon joining the internship.
PM Internship Scheme Notes (2024)
Overview:
- Launched by: Union Corporate Affairs Ministry.
- Objective: To provide internship opportunities to youth in the top 500 companies to expose them to a real-world business environment, across various professions and employment sectors.
- Target: 1 crore youth in 5 years, providing opportunities in 500 companies.
Key Details:
- Applications Received: 6.21 lakh applications for 1.27 lakh opportunities.
- Internship Duration: 12 months.
- Selection Process: Currently ongoing.
Financial Assistance:
- Stipend: ₹5,000 per month for interns.
- ₹4,500 from the Union government.
- ₹500 from the company via Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds.
- One-Time Grant: ₹6,000 to cover incidentals for each intern upon joining.
Implementation:
- Target Demographic: Youth across India, primarily focusing on providing skills and experience to help bridge the gap between education and employment.
- Outcome Goal: Expose youth to various sectors, fostering entrepreneurship, skill-building, and enhancing employability.
Additional Points:
- The internship scheme was announced as part of the Union Budget 2024 to empower young individuals and connect them with businesses in different industries.
ISRO to Sign off 2024 With Space Docking Experiment Mission Today
Overview:
- Mission Name: SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment)
- Launch Vehicle: PSLV-C60 (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle)
- Launch Date: December 30, 2024, at 9:58 p.m.
- Launch Location: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota
Relevance : GS 3(Space )
Key Details:
- Spacecraft Involved:
- Chaser (SDX01) and Target (SDX02) spacecraft.
- Each spacecraft weighs approximately 220 kg.
- Both will be placed into a 470 km circular orbit at a 55-degree inclination.
- Objective:
- Spacecraft Rendezvous, Docking, and Undocking: This mission is a critical step in demonstrating the technology required for future space missions, including satellite servicing, space station operations, and interplanetary missions.
- Technology Demonstration: The experiment will advance India’s capabilities in space docking, an essential technology for future missions like lunar exploration, building an Indian space station, and sending Indian astronauts to the Moon.
Mission Phases:
- Initial Phase:
- Separation of Spacecraft: The SDX02 spacecraft will separate first, followed by SDX01 after a few seconds.
- The spacecraft will be given a small relative velocity to ensure a 10-20 km separation between them.
- Far Rendezvous:
- After separation, the Target spacecraft will use its propulsion system to adjust its relative velocity, allowing both spacecraft to match their velocities and remain in the same orbit but separated by about 20 km.
- Final Phase:
- The Chaser spacecraft will gradually close the distance with the Target spacecraft, ultimately docking in the first week of January 2025.
Mission Significance:
- Futuristic Missions: This docking experiment is crucial for the success of upcoming missions, such as:
- Lunar Missions: Sending an Indian astronaut to the Moon.
- Interplanetary Missions: Sample returns from the Moon and Mars.
- Space Station: The operation of an Indian space station.
- PS4-Orbital Experiment Module Payloads:
- 24 payloads will be carried onboard the PSLV–C60, contributing to ISRO’s ongoing experiments and advancements in space technology.
Milestone for India:
- Space Docking Technology: India aims to join an exclusive group of countries (USA, Russia, China) that have mastered space docking technology.
- International Significance: The success of this mission will not only showcase India’s growing space capabilities but also pave the way for more complex space operations in the future.
Nari Shakti Se Jal Shakti initiative shows how rural women lead India’s fight against water crisis
Overview:
- Initiative Name: Nari Shakti Se Jal Shakti (Women Power for Water Empowerment)
- Focus: Engaging women in water conservation efforts and leveraging their leadership in managing water resources.
- Aim: Addressing India’s severe water crisis by empowering women to lead community-based water conservation initiatives.
Relevance : GS 2(Governance )
Context of Water Crisis:
- Water Shortage: India is facing a significant water crisis, with 40% of its population expected to lack access to clean drinking water by 2030.
- Agricultural Dependency: 80% of India’s water is used for agriculture, which is vulnerable to erratic monsoons.
- Economic Impact: The global water crisis is projected to cause financial losses, with lower-income countries potentially facing GDP losses of up to 15% by 2050.
Role of Women in Water Conservation:
- Traditional Role: Women, particularly in rural areas, are traditionally responsible for water-related tasks such as fetching water and managing household water use.
- Leadership: Women’s influence in rural communities allows them to effectively mobilize others and drive water conservation practices.
Key Components of the Initiative:
- Water-Saving Practices: Women-led groups advocate for and implement water-saving strategies such as reducing water wastage and protecting natural water bodies.
- Sustainable Solutions: The initiative ensures that water conservation efforts are sustainable and have long-lasting impacts on local communities.
Global Impact and Alignment:
- Sustainable Development Goals: The initiative contributes to SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by empowering women and improving access to water.
Case Studies of Success:
- Rajasthan: Women-led groups have revived traditional water bodies and built check dams, improving groundwater levels and ensuring year-round water availability.
- Maharashtra: Women have promoted micro–irrigation techniques, reducing water usage in agriculture and increasing crop yields.
- Himachal Pradesh: Women are actively involved in rainwater harvesting projects, securing a steady water supply during dry periods.
Broader Impact:
- Water Security: The initiative addresses the critical need for water conservation, ensuring that future generations have reliable access to water.
- Gender Equality: It simultaneously promotes gender equality by involving women in decision-making and leadership roles in water management.
Conclusion:
The Nari Shakti Se Jal Shakti initiative showcases the transformative power of women in solving pressing environmental challenges.
Source : Down to Earth
