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11 November 2024 Daily Current Affairs

Context: In a significant move, Israel’s Defence Ministry is coordinating with the German Federal Ministry of Defence for the initial deployment of the Arrow-3 missile defense system on German soil, set for 2025. This collaboration is part of a broader strategy to enhance missile defense capabilities across Europe, ensuring the protection of allied nations against potential threats.

About the Arrow-3 Missile Defense System:

What is Arrow-3?

The Arrow-3 Missile Defense System is an exo-atmospheric anti-ballistic missile defense solution designed to intercept long-range ballistic threats outside of the earth’s atmosphere. It is part of Israel’s advanced Arrow Weapon System (AWS), recognized as the world’s first national, operational, and stand-alone Anti Tactical Ballistic Missiles (ATBM) defense system.

Key Features and Capabilities:

  • Exo-atmospheric Interception: Arrow-3 is specifically engineered to engage ballistic missiles while they are still outside of the atmosphere, offering an extra layer of defense to protect against long-range threats.
  • Advanced Hypersonic Speed: The system uses hypersonic technology, allowing the interceptor to travel at five times the speed of sound, ensuring rapid response times to intercept incoming missiles.
  • Long-Range Capability: With a range of up to 2,400 km, Arrow-3 can target threats from great distances, providing Israel and its allies with broad defense coverage.
  • Altitude and Tracking: The interceptor is capable of targeting threats at an altitude of 100 km, and is equipped with early-warning radar and multi-target tracking capabilities, ensuring high accuracy and effectiveness in complex combat environments.

How Does the Arrow-3 Work?

  • Hit-to-Kill Technology: Arrow-3 employs hit-to-kill technology, which ensures the destruction of incoming missiles by physically colliding with them, rather than relying on explosives.
  • Vertical Launch and Interception: The missile is launched vertically before its direction is adjusted towards the predicted interception point, guided by high-resolution electro-optical sensors that provide precise targeting.
  • Integrated Defense System: Arrow-3 is part of Israel’s broader multi-layered defense network, complementing other systems like Arrow 2, David’s Sling, and the Iron Dome, to provide a comprehensive defense against all types of aerial threats.

A Global Strategic Asset:

The deployment of the Arrow-3 missile defense system in Germany signals a deepening of defense collaboration between Israel and Europe. As part of Israel’s robust defense strategy, the Arrow-3 stands as a testament to its leadership in missile defense technology, offering an advanced shield against emerging threats. With its capability to intercept missiles at extreme altitudes and speeds, Arrow-3 represents a pivotal advancement in global defense systems, safeguarding nations from a new generation of missile warfare.

Context: In a move to promote cleanliness and aesthetic improvements, the Rajasthan College Education Commissionerate has instructed 20 government colleges to paint the front facades of their buildings and entry halls orange under the Kayakalp Scheme. This initiative, which began in the healthcare sector, is now extending to educational institutions, reinforcing the importance of cleanliness and visual appeal.

 What is the Kayakalp Scheme?

An Initiative for Cleaner Healthcare Facilities:

The Kayakalp Scheme was launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on May 15, 2015, as part of the larger Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission). It aims to enhance the cleanliness, hygiene, and overall quality of Public Health Facilities (PHFs) across India.

Objectives of the Kayakalp Scheme:

  • Promoting Cleanliness and Hygiene: The scheme seeks to improve sanitation standards, infection control, and the use of environment-friendly practices in healthcare settings, ensuring safer spaces for patients and staff.
  • Incentivizing Excellence: PHFs that demonstrate outstanding efforts in maintaining cleanliness and infection control are recognized and rewarded, fostering a competitive spirit among healthcare facilities.
  • Building a Culture of Ongoing Improvement: The scheme encourages continuous assessment, peer reviews, and ongoing enhancements to hygiene, cleanliness, and sanitation practices within healthcare centers.
  • Sustainable Practices: It focuses on sharing sustainable, health-enhancing practices related to cleanliness that can lead to improved public health outcomes.

Assessment and Recognition Process:

The Kayakalp Scheme follows a three-tier assessment process:

  1. Internal Assessment: Healthcare facilities are evaluated based on their self-reported cleanliness practices.
  2. Peer Review: Other healthcare centers review the facility’s performance.
  3. External Evaluation: An external body assesses the facility’s adherence to cleanliness and hygiene protocols.

At the start of each financial year, facilities are scored and documented using a pre-defined assessment tool.

Performance Parameters for Evaluation:

  • Hospital/Facility Upkeep
  • Sanitation and Hygiene
  • Waste Management
  • Infection Control
  • Support Services
  • Hygiene Promotion

Awards and Recognition under the Kayakalp Scheme:

To acknowledge the exceptional efforts of healthcare facilities, five awards are given each year under the Kayakalp Scheme:

  • Two Best District Hospitals
  • Two Best Community Health Centres/Sub-District Hospitals
  • One Primary Health Centre in each district

Awards Include:

  • Cash prizes
  • Citations

These awards are granted based on the performance of the healthcare centers, as assessed by the established criteria.

Significance of the Kayakalp Scheme:

The Kayakalp Scheme has played a pivotal role in transforming the cleanliness standards of India’s public health facilities, resulting in healthier and more welcoming environments for patients and healthcare workers alike. By incentivizing sustained cleanliness practices, it supports the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’s broader goals of hygiene, health, and environmental sustainability across the nation.

Context: Recently, a highly decomposed elephant carcass was discovered in the Khanapara range of the Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary, raising concerns about the sanctuary’s wildlife conservation efforts.

About Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary:

Location and Geography:

Situated in the state of Assam, the Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary is a vital ecological reserve. It is made up of three major reserve forests: Khanapara, Amchang, and South Amchang. This sanctuary spans from the Brahmaputra River in the north to the hilly forests of Meghalaya in the south, forming a continuous forest belt that extends through Meghalaya’s Maradakdola Reserve Forests.

Flora: A Rich Biodiversity

The sanctuary hosts a variety of plant life, contributing to its lush ecosystem:

  • Khasi Hill Sal Forests
  • East Himalayan Mixed Deciduous Forest
  • Eastern Alluvial Secondary Semi-evergreen Forests
  • East Himalayan Sal Forests

These forest types support a rich diversity of wildlife, making the sanctuary a key area for conservation in Assam.

Fauna: Home to Unique Species:

The Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary is a habitat for several unique and endangered species. Among the notable animals are:

  • Flying fox
  • Slow loris
  • Assamese macaque
  • Rhesus macaque
  • Hoolock gibbon
  • Porcupine
  • White-backed vulture
  • Slender-billed vulture

Additionally, Tree yellow butterflies (Gancana harina) are found in this sanctuary, which are indigenous to Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and northeast India.

Significance of Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary

The Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary is an important conservation area, providing a refuge for both flora and fauna unique to the region. It plays a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, particularly in the face of growing threats to wildlife populations. The sanctuary’s location, stretching from the Brahmaputra River to the forests of Meghalaya, underscores its significance in maintaining ecological continuity between the two regions.

India’s trade policies are grappling with a delicate balance. On one hand, protectionism has driven India to avoid free trade agreements like RCEP, fearing the opening of markets to China and the risk of cheap imports flooding the country. On the other hand, countries like Vietnam and Indonesia have significantly benefited from integration into global trade agreements.

Risks and Rewards of RCEP:

In September 2024, Piyush Goyal, India’s Commerce Minister, warned that joining RCEP—the China-led trade pact—could exacerbate India’s trade deficit with China, which had been growing at an alarming rate from 2004 to 2014. He expressed concerns over manufacturing being weakened further by increased imports from China, potentially undermining the Make in India initiative.

India Missing the China-Plus-One Opportunity:

The China-Plus-One Strategy:

The China-plus-one strategy aims to diversify manufacturing and sourcing away from China to reduce dependency on the nation. This strategy gained momentum due to several factors:

  • COVID-19 pandemic
  • US-China trade war
  • Rising labor costs in China
  • Geopolitical tensions

Countries like Vietnam and Thailand have been quick to capitalize on this shift, but India has lagged behind.

Missed Growth in US-China Trade Shift:

Despite India’s manufacturing potential, it has not gained much from the US-China trade shift. An Oxford Economics report highlighted that while India’s exports surged, the country failed to increase domestic value addition in high-growth sectors. For instance, in the electronics sector, India’s share of US imports increased from 0.2% in 2017 to 2.1% in 2023. However, rivals like Vietnam and Taiwan still dominate the market, limiting India’s growth potential.

Attracting Chinese FDI: Pros and Cons

Chinese Investment Surge Amid Protectionism:

With rising protectionism, Chinese companies have increased their overseas investments. However, India’s share of Chinese outward direct investment has significantly dropped, from 2.6% in 2019 to 1% in 2021. This is primarily due to ongoing border tensions.

Strategic Concerns:

While Chinese investments could boost trade in the short term, they also pose risks to India’s long-term economic security. Experts warn that excessive reliance on Chinese firms could weaken India’s strategic independence and expose the country to supply chain vulnerabilities. Chinese firms may prioritize their interests, reducing benefits for Indian workers and stalling growth in domestic industries.

Uncertainty with Trump’s Trade Policies:

Concerns Over Tariff Hikes:

Trade analysts predict that a second Trump term could extend tariffs to sectors critical to India’s exports, including automobiles, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. This could significantly impact India’s market access in the US, reducing competitiveness in key sectors.

New Opportunities for Indian Exporters:

As the US intensifies its actions against China, India could seize the opportunity to fill the gaps left by restricted Chinese imports. This shift may allow Indian exporters to benefit from increased demand for goods once supplied by China.

Conclusion: Rethinking India’s Trade Strategies

Context: The Supreme Court of India (SC) recently delivered a landmark judgment in the Property Owners Association & Ors v State of Maharashtra case, marking a significant shift in how the state can acquire private property for public purposes. The judgment has sparked debates on the balance between property rights and the state’s welfare objectives.

Background of the Property Owners Association & Ors v State of Maharashtra Case:

The case revolved around a Maharashtra law that allowed the state to acquire certain privately owned dilapidated buildings in Mumbai. The law claimed to be in line with Article 39(b) of the Indian Constitution, which aims to redistribute the material resources of the community for the common good. In 1991, the Bombay High Court upheld the law, asserting that it was protected under Article 31C, which was originally introduced to promote socialist objectives under the Indira Gandhi government.

Understanding Articles 39(b) & 31C

Article 39(b):

This article mandates that the state ensure the ownership and control of the material resources of the community are distributed in a way that benefits the common good.

Article 31C:

Article 31C has two parts:

  1. Exemption: Laws aimed at promoting Article 39(b) or (c) cannot be challenged for inconsistency with Articles 14, 19, or 31.
  2. Protection: It shields these laws from judicial scrutiny, provided they claim to support Article 39(b) or (c). However, this second part was struck down in the Kesavananda Bharti case (1973). Later, the 42nd Amendment (1976) expanded its scope, though it was partially invalidated in the Minerva Mills case (1980).

The Property Owners Association & Ors v State of Maharashtra Case:

The Judgment:

The 9-judge bench of the Supreme Court, chaired by the Chief Justice of India, addressed two key issues:

  1. The status of Article 31C and whether it still stands despite previous amendments being struck down.
  2. The scope of Article 39(b) and whether it permits the state to acquire private property as part of the community’s material resources.

Status of Article 31C:

The case challenged the Bombay High Court’s interpretation, which argued that the Minerva Mills ruling invalidated Article 31C. The Supreme Court clarified that only the expanded scope was removed, but the original version of Article 31C remains valid, ensuring that laws promoting socialist principles still have constitutional protection.

Interpretation of Article 39(b):

The court then examined whether Article 39(b) justifies the acquisition of all private property as community resources. Referring to Justice Krishna Iyer’s views, the court clarified that not all private property is considered part of the community’s material resources. The court outlined four criteria to determine whether private property could be designated as a community resource:

Concentration of ownership: What are the consequences of wealth or resource concentration in a few hands?

Nature of the resource: What inherent characteristics make it vital for the community?

Impact on the community: How does the resource benefit society at large?

Scarcity of the resource: Is it in short supply, making it critical for communal welfare?

Diverging Opinions in the Property Owners Association & Ors v State of Maharashtra Case:

  • Majority Opinion: The majority of the bench emphasized the shift from a public-investment economy to one with a mix of public and private investments. They argued that not all private property qualifies as a community resource, and acquisition must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
  • Justice Nagarathna’s Concurrence: Justice Nagarathna concurred with the majority but advocated for a broader interpretation of Article 39(b), stressing that changing socio-economic policies shouldn’t alter its original intent to promote public welfare.
  • Justice Dhulia’s Dissent: In contrast, Justice Dhulia dissented, arguing for the inclusion of all private resources as community resources to address the growing wealth inequality in India. He believed the state should have broader authority to acquire private property for the common good.

Conclusion:

The Supreme Court’s ruling in the Property Owners Association & Ors v State of Maharashtra case has redefined the interpretation of Article 39(b) while preserving the original scope of Article 31C. This decision represents a balancing act between the state’s welfare objectives and the protection of private property rights. It reflects India’s evolving socio-economic needs and provides a framework for future property acquisitions, ensuring that private property is only acquired for the greater good and when the conditions warrant such an intervention.

Context: National Education Day is celebrated every year on November 11 in India to honor the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, a revered freedom fighter, scholar, and India’s first Minister of Education. This day was officially recognized in 2008 by the Ministry of Human Resource Development (now the Ministry of Education) to commemorate Azad’s monumental contributions to the Indian education system. National Education Day serves as a reminder of the vital role that education plays in empowering individuals and fostering a progressive society. The year 2024 offers a fresh opportunity to reflect on the nation’s educational progress and future goals.

When is National Education Day?

National Education Day is observed annually on November 11, marking the birthday of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. This day serves as a symbol of India’s dedication to improving its education system and addressing the challenges faced in the sector. Across the country, schools, colleges, universities, and government institutions organize events to raise awareness about the importance of education and its role in shaping a forward-thinking society.

National Education Day History

The origins of National Education Day are deeply rooted in the educational reforms led by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India’s first Minister of Education. Azad was instrumental in the establishment of key educational institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the University Grants Commission (UGC). He focused on making education accessible to all, aiming to bridge gaps in quality and availability.

In recognition of his efforts, the Government of India declared November 11 as National Education Day in 2008. Azad’s advocacy for universal primary education, along with his emphasis on scientific education, continues to influence India’s educational framework today.

Contribution of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad’s contributions were transformative in shaping India’s modern education system. As the country’s first Education Minister, Azad pushed for universal primary education and worked towards ensuring that quality education was accessible to all, regardless of social or economic background. His leadership led to the foundation of iconic institutions such as the IITs and the UGC, which remain cornerstones of India’s educational and technological progress.

Azad also advocated for the integration of science, technology, and cultural heritage within the education system, founding institutions like the Sahitya Akademi and the Lalit Kala Akademi to preserve and promote Indian culture. His balanced approach to education — integrating modernity with tradition — remains a guiding principle in India’s educational policies today.

Theme of National Education Day 2024:

The theme for National Education Day 2024 is “Learning for Lasting Peace.” This theme highlights the role of education in fostering a peaceful, inclusive society. It emphasizes that education not only empowers individuals but also contributes to building social cohesion and harmony in the nation.

Importance of National Education Day:

National Education Day serves as a reminder of the transformative power of education and its key role in the personal and national development of a country. Here’s why this day holds significance:

  • Honoring Azad’s Legacy: Azad’s leadership in shaping India’s education system laid the foundation for many of the institutions and policies we benefit from today, such as the IITs and the UGC.
  • Promoting Literacy and Awareness: National Education Day spreads awareness about the importance of literacy, especially in rural and underserved areas, reinforcing that education is a fundamental right.
  • Emphasizing Equal Access: The day underscores the need for equitable education for all, ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has access to quality education. The Right to Education (RTE) Act further enforces this principle by guaranteeing free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14.
  • Encouraging Educational Reforms: The day offers an opportunity to review and discuss educational reforms, such as the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and assess their progress in reshaping the education system.
  • Celebrating Progress: National Education Day acknowledges the strides India has made toward universal education, including the expansion of schools, colleges, and digital learning platforms.

National Education Day 2024 Celebrations:

National Education Day 2024 will be celebrated with a range of activities designed to engage both students and educators:

  • Essay Writing and Debates: Schools and colleges often hold competitions on themes related to education, encouraging students to reflect on its importance.
  • Workshops: Educational workshops focusing on innovative teaching methods, digital literacy, and student mental health will be organized to improve the learning experience.
  • Honoring Teachers and Scholars: The day also provides an opportunity to recognize the contributions of educators and scholars who have made a lasting impact on their students and the education system.
  • Community Outreach: Universities and NGOs will participate in activities such as promoting literacy in rural areas, distributing books, and conducting study sessions to reach underserved communities.
  • Social Media Campaigns: Various social media platforms will run campaigns to spread awareness about the importance of education, showcasing inspiring stories and motivating individuals to embrace lifelong learning.

Government Initiatives on National Education Day:

On National Education Day, the Government of India often launches new policies and initiatives aimed at addressing the challenges within the education sector:

  • NEP 2020: The National Education Policy of 2020 aims to bring about a comprehensive transformation in the education system, promoting multidisciplinary learning, critical thinking, and technological integration.
  • Digital Education Platforms: Initiatives like DIKSHA, SWAYAM, and PM eVidya have been rolled out to provide online learning resources to students, especially in remote areas, thereby bridging the digital divide.
  • Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan: This initiative aims to provide inclusive and equitable education across all levels, targeting disadvantaged and marginalized groups.
  • Skill Development: Programs like Skill India offer vocational training, equipping students with practical skills that align with industry demands, thus ensuring better employment prospects.

Conclusion:

National Education Day 2024 serves not only as a tribute to Maulana Abul Kalam Azad’s vision for education but also as a reminder of the ongoing need for reforms, inclusive practices, and innovations in the Indian education system. This day highlights the importance of quality education in building a strong, inclusive, and prosperous nation. As India moves forward, it is crucial to continue addressing the evolving educational challenges and ensure that every individual, regardless of background, has access to the tools they need to succeed.

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