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1. Indian Embassy Urges Citizens to Leave Lebanon Amid Escalating Violence
Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – General Studies Paper II (International Relations, Diaspora), General Studies Paper III (Internal Security, Terrorism)
Context:
The Indian Embassy in Lebanon has advised Indian nationals to leave the country amidst the escalating violence due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The embassy’s advisory highlights India's focus on ensuring the safety of its citizens abroad.
Detailed Analysis:
Lebanon’s Political Context:
Lebanon has long been a region of political instability, exacerbated by the Hezbollah-Israel conflict. Hezbollah, a militant Shia group backed by Iran, frequently clashes with Israeli forces, destabilising the region.
The conflict has intensified due to regional geopolitics, impacting not just local populations but also foreign nationals.
India’s Diplomatic Measures:
India has a well-established mechanism to safeguard its diaspora in conflict zones. The embassy's advisory reflects India's proactive approach to ensure the safety of its citizens.
India's diplomatic efforts, including consular assistance, evacuation missions (e.g., Operation Rahat, Operation Ganga), are critical in maintaining ties with conflict-prone regions.
Implications for India:
The situation in Lebanon impacts India’s foreign policy, particularly in West Asia, a region crucial for its energy security and trade routes.
India’s role as a responsible global actor is demonstrated through its ability to balance relations with countries like Israel, Iran, and Lebanon, while ensuring the safety of its citizens.
Importance for UPSC:
International Relations: The situation in Lebanon provides insight into India’s foreign policy, particularly in handling diaspora safety and managing diplomatic relations in conflict zones.
Internal Security: Understanding how regional conflicts can affect India’s security interests, especially regarding Indian nationals abroad, is crucial for GS Paper III.
Prelims Questions
Which militant group is involved in the conflict with Israel in Lebanon?
(a) Hamas
(b) Hezbollah
(c) Islamic State
(d) Taliban
What are the steps taken by India to ensure the safety of its citizens during international conflicts?
Mains Question
GS Paper II: "Discuss the role of India’s foreign policy in ensuring the safety of its citizens in conflict zones. Analyse the challenges posed by regional conflicts in West Asia on India’s diplomatic relations."
2. Karnataka Withdraws General Consent for CBI to Probe Cases
Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – General Studies Paper II (Polity, Federalism, Governance), General Studies Paper III (Corruption, Investigative Agencies)
Context:
The Karnataka government’s decision to withdraw general consent for the CBI to investigate cases in the state has once again brought the debate on federalism and the powers of state and central investigative agencies into focus.
Detailed Analysis:
General Consent for CBI:
Under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act (1946), the CBI needs the consent of state governments to operate within their jurisdiction. States can either grant general consent or case-specific consent.
Karnataka’s decision to withdraw general consent follows the lead of several other states like West Bengal, Maharashtra, and Kerala, indicating a growing trend of states asserting control over investigative processes.
Federalism and State Autonomy:
The move reflects concerns over federalism, where states feel that central agencies like the CBI are being used to target political opponents, thus infringing on state autonomy.
It raises questions on the balance of power between the Centre and the states and how investigative agencies should function within a federal structure.
Impact on Investigations:
Without general consent, the CBI cannot register new cases in Karnataka, except those directed by the courts or related to central government employees. This could potentially delay or disrupt ongoing investigations.
However, case-specific consent can still be granted, maintaining a check on central overreach while allowing necessary investigations.
Political Angle:
The move often reflects political tensions between opposition-ruled states and the Centre. It shows how governance and investigative processes can become points of political contestation in India’s federal structure.
Importance for UPSC:
Polity and Governance: Understanding the legal basis of CBI’s jurisdiction and its relationship with state governments is crucial for GS Paper II.
Federalism and Centre-State Relations: This issue touches upon the delicate balance of power in India’s federal structure, a key theme in both Prelims and Mains.
Prelims Questions
Under which Act does the CBI require state consent for investigations?
(a) Indian Police Act, 1861
(b) Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946
(c) Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988
(d) Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973
Which states have withdrawn general consent for the CBI to operate in their jurisdiction?
Mains Question
GS Paper II: "Examine the implications of state governments withdrawing general consent for CBI investigations on the functioning of federalism in India. How does this impact governance and the rule of law?"
3. World Rabies Day – Tracing the Journey from Myths to Modern Medicine
News Link: World Rabies Day: Myths to Modern Medicine
Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – General Studies Paper II (Health, Government Schemes), General Studies Paper III (Science and Technology, Public Health)
Context:
World Rabies Day is observed annually to raise awareness about rabies prevention and control, with this year’s focus on dispelling myths and promoting modern medical practices.
Detailed Analysis:
Rabies in India:
India accounts for 36% of the world’s rabies deaths, making it a significant public health issue. Despite being preventable, rabies remains a cause of death, especially in rural areas where access to medical facilities is limited.
Myths and Misconceptions:
Education and awareness campaigns are essential in debunking such myths and promoting modern medical interventions like vaccination.
Medical Advances:
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and rabies vaccines are effective measures for preventing rabies. WHO recommends timely treatment after exposure to rabies through animal bites.
India’s Efforts:
India has launched several rabies prevention campaigns, focussing on mass vaccination of stray animals, especially dogs, and improving human access to vaccines and treatment.
Under the National Rabies Control Programme, India aims to eliminate rabies by 2030 through public health education, mass vaccinations, and improved access to PEP.
Importance for UPSC:
Public Health Awareness: Understanding the challenges of combating preventable diseases like rabies and the importance of public health campaigns is crucial for GS Paper II.
Science and Technology: The role of vaccines and PEP in preventing diseases is an important aspect of GS Paper III.
Prelims Questions
Which disease accounts for 36% of the world’s cases in India, despite being preventable?
(a) Malaria
(b) Tuberculosis
(c) Rabies
(d) Dengue
What is post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) used for in relation to rabies?
Mains Question
GS Paper II: "Discuss the challenges faced in eradicating rabies in India. How can public health campaigns and modern medical interventions help achieve the goal of rabies elimination by 2030?"
4. India Elected to GLOBE Network Steering Committee in Beijing
Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – General Studies Paper II (International Relations, Global Cooperation), General Studies Paper III (Science and Technology)
Context:
India has been elected to the GLOBE Network Steering Committee in Beijing, an international initiative that promotes global collaboration in scientific research and technology sharing, particularly for environmental and health-related challenges.
Detailed Analysis:
GLOBE Network:
The GLOBE (Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment) Network fosters international scientific collaboration on environmental issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and health challenges.
India’s Role:
India’s election to the Steering Committee highlights its growing global role in scientific diplomacy and international cooperation. This aligns with India’s broader foreign policy goals of promoting global public goods and scientific research.
Participation in this network allows India to share its technological advancements in environmental monitoring and health, contributing to global efforts to combat issues like climate change and pandemics.
Significance for Science and Technology:
The GLOBE Network promotes the exchange of scientific data and technology, which is crucial in addressing transnational challenges like climate change and public health crises. India’s involvement will enhance its access to cutting-edge research and innovation.
Importance for UPSC:
International Relations and Scientific Diplomacy: India’s participation in global networks like GLOBE highlights its efforts in promoting international cooperation on global challenges, a key theme in GS Paper II.
Science and Technology: India’s role in promoting environmental science and health-related research underlines the importance of scientific advancements in global governance.
Prelims Questions
Which international network promotes global collaboration in environmental science and health research?
(a) G20
(b) GLOBE Network
(c) WHO
(d) UNESCO
What are the primary areas of focus for the GLOBE Network?
Mains Question
GS Paper II: "Examine the significance of India’s election to the GLOBE Network Steering Committee. How can international scientific collaborations contribute to addressing global environmental and health challenges?"
5. India’s Constitutional Doctrine Evolves with Society, No Generation Can Claim Monopoly – CJI
Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – General Studies Paper II (Polity and Constitution, Judiciary, Constitutional Developments)
Context:
Chief Justice of India (CJI) emphasised that constitutional doctrine evolves with societal changes and that no generation can claim monopoly over its interpretation. The statement underlines the dynamic nature of constitutional law, which adapts to societal needs over time.
Detailed Analysis:
Evolution of Constitutional Doctrine:
The Indian Constitution, though framed in 1950, is a living document. The doctrine of judicial interpretation ensures that constitutional provisions are interpreted in the context of contemporary societal changes.
This view supports judicial activism, where courts are not just bound by the literal meaning of the law but interpret it in a manner that upholds the spirit of justice in a changing society.
Significant Judgements:
Landmark judgements such as Kesavananda Bharati (1973), which established the Basic Structure Doctrine, and recent rulings like the decriminalisation of Section 377 (LGBTQ+ rights), highlight the judiciary’s role in evolving constitutional principles.
The statement by the CJI reflects the principle that constitutional values, such as liberty, equality, and fraternity, must be redefined and expanded to address the challenges of modern times.
Judiciary and Social Justice:
The judiciary has played a key role in advancing social justice through its progressive judgements, addressing issues like privacy rights (Puttaswamy case), gender equality, and affirmative action.
The balance between judicial activism and judicial restraint is crucial in maintaining the legitimacy and credibility of the courts while addressing societal demands.
Importance for UPSC:
Polity and Constitution: Understanding the evolution of constitutional doctrine is essential for grasping how the judiciary interprets laws in the context of changing societal needs (GS Paper II).
Role of Judiciary: The dynamic nature of constitutional interpretation through landmark judgements is an important aspect of judicial functions in India.
Prelims Questions
Which landmark judgement introduced the Basic Structure Doctrine?
(a) Golaknath Case
(b) Kesavananda Bharati Case
(c) Minerva Mills Case
(d) Maneka Gandhi Case
What is meant by the term "living constitution"?
Mains Question
GS Paper II: "Examine the role of the judiciary in ensuring the Indian Constitution evolves with societal changes. Discuss how landmark judgements have contributed to this evolution."
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