13 November 2024 Daily Current Affairs

1. New Rules Under Water Act 2024: Penalties and Inquiry Process Simplified

Context: The Central Government has notified new rules under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, focusing on streamlining the inquiry process and penalty framework for water pollution offenses. These rules, titled the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) (Manner of Holding Inquiry and Imposition of Penalty) Rules, 2024, aim to enhance regulatory oversight and ensure a smoother adjudication process for violations.

The Need for Amendments to the Water Act:

Background: The Water Act, 1974

The original Act was introduced to prevent and control water pollution. It included provisions for imprisonment for violations and established penalties for failing to comply with its directives.

Why Amend the Water Act?

• Simplifying Compliance: Minor offenses, such as not informing the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) about water abstraction, carried harsh penalties, including imprisonment. These provisions often led to harassment of businesses and individuals.
• Promoting Ease of Living and Doing Business: The earlier provisions were not aligned with India’s Ease of Living and Ease of Doing Business initiatives.
• Focus on Reform: The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024, was introduced to rationalize penalties and decriminalize minor violations.

Key Highlights of the Water Act, 2024:

1. Introduction and Applicability

• Initially applicable in Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Union Territories, with other states adopting the Act through resolutions.

2. Decriminalization and Revised Penalties

• Imprisonment provisions removed for minor offenses.
• Failure to pay penalties can lead to imprisonment of up to three years or fines up to twice the penalty amount.

3. Exemptions for Certain Industries

• Specific categories of industries may be exempted from requiring SPCB consent if deemed non-polluting by the Central Government.
• Penalties for tampering with monitoring devices are set between ₹10,000 and ₹15 lakh.

4. Streamlined SPCB Chairman Appointments: The nomination process for SPCB chairpersons will now involve central oversight, adding transparency and accountability.

5. Enhanced Penalties for Pollutant Discharge

• Monetary fines replace imprisonment for violations of pollutant discharge norms.
• SPCBs empowered to order the immediate cessation of activities causing pollution.

6. Appointment of Adjudicating Officers

• Adjudicating officers (minimum rank: Joint Secretary) are authorized to assess penalties for violations.
• Appeals can be made to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), with a deposit of 10% of the penalty amount.

7. Accountability for Government Departments

• Heads of government departments are liable to pay penalties equal to one month’s salary for violations unless they prove due diligence.

Key Features of the New Rules Under the Water Act 2024

1. Introduction of Penalty Rules

• The Union Environment Ministry has notified procedures for inquiries and penalty imposition, which are now in effect.

2. Shift to Civil Penalties

• Criminal charges for violations have been replaced by civil penalties.
• Non-polluting industries (e.g., white category industries) are exempt from prior permissions under the Act.

3. Empowerment of Pollution Control Authorities: CPCB, SPCB, Pollution Control Committees, and Integrated Regional Offices can now directly file complaints for violations.

4. Role of Adjudication Officers

• Officers (minimum rank: Joint Secretary) oversee complaints, issue notices, and complete inquiries within six months.
• Alleged violators may respond through legal representatives.

Conclusion:

The Water Act 2024 and its new rules mark a significant shift in India’s approach to addressing water pollution. By decriminalizing minor offenses and introducing monetary penalties, the government aims to reduce harassment and encourage compliance. These reforms not only support the Ease of Doing Business but also strengthen regulatory mechanisms for safeguarding India’s water resources.

2. Kanchanjunga Express Collision: CRS Report Reveals Safety Gaps

Context: The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) has released a detailed report on the June 2024 Kanchanjunga Express-Goods Train collision in West Bengal. The report cites “multiple lapses” at various operational levels, from station staff to divisional officials, as the primary reasons for the tragic incident.

Labeling the collision as an “accident-in-waiting,” the CRS highlighted failures in managing train operations during automatic signal breakdowns. The report recommends the urgent implementation of the KAVACH system to prevent similar incidents.

What is the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS)?

The CRS is a statutory body responsible for ensuring the safety of railway operations and travel under the Railways Act, 1989.

Key Functions:

• Investigates Serious Accidents: Probes train collisions and derailments.
• Makes Safety Recommendations: Suggests preventive measures to the government.

Administrative Structure:

• Headquarters: Located in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
• Reporting: The CRS operates under the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), not the Ministry of Railways, to maintain independence and prevent conflicts of interest.

What is KAVACH?

About the System:

• KAVACH, meaning “armour,” is India’s indigenous Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) developed since 2012.
• It is designed to ensure zero accidents by automatically managing train movements during emergencies.

How It Works:

• Electronic Devices: Uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) devices on trains, signals, and tracks.
• Communication: Tracks, locomotives, and signals “communicate” using ultra-high radio frequencies to control brakes and alert drivers of dangers.

Development;

• Indigenously Designed: Created by the Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) in collaboration with Indian industries.
• Testing: Trials conducted by the South Central Railway.

The Kanchanjunga Express Collision:

What Happened?

On June 17, 2024, the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjunga Express collided with a goods train near New Jalpaiguri station in West Bengal. The accident occurred within the Katihar Division of Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR).

Casualties and Injuries

• Deaths: 10, including the goods train’s loco pilot and the Kanchanjunga Express’s train manager.
• Injuries: 43 passengers suffered various injuries.

CRS Report: Key Findings

Causes of the Accident:

The CRS identified the following lapses as major causes:

• Flawed Authority Letter: Issued to pass defective automatic signals, but it lacked proper speed 
  guidance

• Communication Failures: Absence of walkie-talkies limited coordination between the train crew and station staff.
• Operational Negligence: Station staff and officials failed to follow standard protocols, leading to errors in train working.

Communication and Safety Violations

• The flawed authority letter misled the loco pilot into maintaining full speed despite defective signals.
• Key staff, including the train manager, were unaware of the signal issue due to improper documentation.

Systemic Issues in Signal Management

• Repeated Failures: Katihar Division recorded 275 automatic signal failures since January 2023.
• Accident History: Over five years, 208 dangerous signal-passing incidents were reported, with 12 leading to collisions.

CRS Recommendations:

1. Implement KAVACH System

The report strongly advocates for the nationwide implementation of the KAVACH system to prevent future accidents.

2. Crashworthiness in Coaches

• Prioritize crash-resistant features in the last two coaches of passenger trains.
• Retrofit older coaches with enhanced safety measures during major servicing.

3. Install Crew Monitoring Systems

Accelerate the installation of Crew Voice and Video Recording Systems (CVVRS) in locomotives to improve communication and safety compliance.

Ministry of Railways’ Response:

Disciplinary Actions:

The Ministry has initiated disciplinary proceedings against staff found responsible for the collision, including station masters and inspectors.

Revised Safety Rules

• Amendments to Procedures: General and Subsidiary Rules (G&SR) have been updated to prevent ambiguities in handling signal failures.
• Updated Formats: New formats for books and forms related to automatic block sections ensure clear instructions.

Equipment and Communication Upgrades:

• Walkie-Talkies Procured: All defective communication devices in Northeast Frontier Railway have been replaced.
• Enhanced Staff Training: Comprehensive training for loco pilots, train managers, and station masters has been conducted to improve adherence to protocols.

Conclusion:

The Kanchanjunga Express collision underscores the critical need for robust safety mechanisms and better operational practices. The CRS report highlights systemic lapses while offering a roadmap for improvement. By implementing KAVACH and reinforcing communication protocols, the Ministry of Railways can move closer to achieving zero-accident rail operations in India.

3. Expanding Himalayan Glacial Lakes: A Looming Threat

Context: A recent report by the Central Water Commission (CWC) reveals that Himalayan glacial lakes are expanding at an alarming rate, posing significant risks to communities, ecosystems, and infrastructure.

Key Findings of the Report:

• The total glacial lake inventory area in India grew from 1,962 hectares in 2011 to 2,623 hectares in 2024, marking a 33.7% increase.
• 67 lakes in India showed a surface area increase of over 40%, placing them in the high-risk category for Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).
• Regions like Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh experienced the most pronounced expansions, indicating heightened risks of GLOFs.
• Across the Himalayan region, glacial lakes and other water bodies have seen an overall area increase of 10.81% in 2024.
• Expanding glacial lakes in Bhutan, Nepal, and China pose significant transboundary risks to India.

What Are Glacial Lakes?

Glacial lakes are water bodies formed by melting glaciers. These lakes usually develop at the foot of glaciers but may also form on, in, or under them.

Types of Glacial Lakes

1. Ice-Contact Lakes: Directly connected to glacier ice, terminating in lake water.
2. Distal Lakes: Located away from glaciers but influenced by their presence.

Understanding Glacial Lake Outbursts:

As glacial lakes expand, they become increasingly hazardous due to their unstable boundaries, often composed of loose ice or sediment.

When these natural dams break, they unleash massive floods, known as Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), causing severe destruction downstream.

Historical Incident

In 2013, Uttarakhand’s Kedarnath flash floods combined with a GLOF from Chorabari Tal killed thousands and caused widespread devastation.

Causes of Glacial Lake Outbursts:

1. Rising Temperatures: Accelerated glacier melting in the Himalayas leads to the formation and expansion of glacial lakes.
2. Increased Glacier Instability: Melting glaciers destabilize moraines (rock ridges) that act as natural dams.
3. Heavy Monsoon Rains:Intense rainfall during the Indian monsoon increases lake volumes, raising the risk of overflow.
4. Earthquakes and Landslides: The seismically active Himalayan region often experiences landslides or rockfalls that destabilize glacial lakes.
5. Development Projects: Infrastructure projects, such as roads and dams, increase environmental stress and the likelihood of landslides.
6. Lack of Monitoring: Many remote glacial lakes are not regularly monitored, leaving communities unprepared for potential disasters.

Consequences of GLOFs in India:

1. Severe Flooding: Floodwaters can destroy villages, farmlands, and infrastructure downstream.
2. Erosion and Riverbank Damage: Sudden surges of water erode riverbanks, destabilizing surrounding land and structures.
3. Loss of Lives and Livelihoods: Communities in flood-prone regions face dire risks, with limited resources to recover from disasters.
4. Infrastructure Damage: Key assets like roads, bridges, and hydropower plants are often washed away during GLOFs.

Preventive Measures Taken:

High-Risk Lakes Identified:

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has listed 189 high-risk glacial lakes for mitigation measures.

Lake-Lowering Measures

Specialized teams conduct investigations and implement lake-lowering techniques to reduce overflow risks.

National GLOF Risk Mitigation Programme (NGRMP)

This program focuses on:

• Hazard Assessments: Conducting detailed technical evaluations of glacial lakes.
• Monitoring Systems: Installing automated weather and water level stations (AWWS) and early warning systems (EWS) to detect potential outbursts.
• Expeditions: So far, 15 expeditions have been conducted, covering regions like Ladakh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu, and Kashmir.

Conclusion:

The rapid expansion of Himalayan glacial lakes demands immediate attention. Proactive monitoring, enhanced infrastructure resilience, and community preparedness are critical to mitigating the risks posed by GLOFs. With climate change accelerating glacier melt, long-term solutions like the National GLOF Risk Mitigation Programme hold the key to safeguarding lives, ecosystems, and economies in vulnerable regions.

4. World Intellectual Property Report 2024: India Shines in Global IP Rankings

Context: According to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) 2024 Report, India has secured a spot among the top 10 countries for patents, trademarks, and industrial designs, showcasing its growing focus on innovation and intellectual property.

Key Highlights of the Report

1. Patents

• India saw a remarkable 15.7% growth in patent applications in 2023, the fastest among the top 20 global IP economies.

2. Industrial Designs

• Applications for industrial designs rose by 36.4%, highlighting India’s emphasis on creativity and advancements in the manufacturing sector.

3. Trademarks

• India ranked 4th globally in trademark filings, recording a 6.1% increase in applications in 2023.

4. Global IP Trends

• A total of 3.55 million patent applications were filed worldwide in 2023, marking a 2.7% increase compared to 2022.
• Asia emerged as a key driver of this growth, with India, China, the United States, Japan, and South Korea leading the way.

Understanding Intellectual Property (IP):

Intellectual Property (IP) refers to the creations of the human mind—inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images used in commerce. IP is protected by laws that grant inventors and creators exclusive rights over their work, enabling them to gain recognition or financial benefit.

Types of Intellectual Property

• Patents: Exclusive rights granted for inventions, covering new methods or technical solutions.
• Copyrights: Legal protection for creators of literary, artistic, and musical works.
• Trademarks: Unique signs or symbols that distinguish the goods or services of a company.
• Industrial Designs: Protection for the aesthetic or ornamental features of an article.
• Geographical Indications (GIs): Signs used for products originating from a specific region, attributed to unique qualities of that location.
• Trade Secrets: Protection for confidential information that has commercial value.

India’s Key IP Initiatives:

1. National IPR Policy (2016): A comprehensive vision document to integrate all forms of IP, ensuring a framework for implementation, monitoring, and review of IP laws.
2. Cell for IPR Promotion and Management (CIPAM): Established to coordinate the implementation of the National IPR Policy, promoting awareness and enforcement of IP laws.
3. National Intellectual Property Awareness Mission (NIPAM): A flagship initiative to impart IP education and training in schools, colleges, and research institutions.
4. Scheme for Facilitating Startups Intellectual Property Protection (SIPP): A program to encourage innovation and support startups in protecting and managing their IP assets.
5. Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): Launched by NITI Aayog in 2016, AIM promotes a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship through programs such as:

• Atal Tinkering Labs for nurturing creativity in schools.
• Atal Incubation Centers for startup support.
• Atal New India Challenges to address social issues through innovation.
• Mentor India for guidance to budding innovators.

Concluding Remarks:

India’s stellar growth in intellectual property filings, especially in patents, industrial designs, and trademarks, reflects its commitment to innovation and global competitiveness. These advancements bolster India’s aspirations for economic growth and an innovation-driven future, positioning the nation as a significant player in the global IP landscape.

5. HAWK Air Defense Equipment

Context: Taiwan’s Defense Minister recently stated that the decision regarding Taiwan’s decommissioned HAWK anti-aircraft missiles lies with the United States, reflecting the ongoing strategic importance of this iconic defense system.

What is the HAWK Missile System?

The HAWK (Homing All the Way Killer) is a ground-to-air missile system designed to provide effective air defense under a variety of conditions. Initially developed by the American defense company Raytheon, it has served as a reliable tool for countering aerial threats.

Key Features:

• All-Weather Capability: Designed to operate in diverse weather conditions.
• Altitude Range: Effective for low-to-medium-altitude targets.
• Versatility: Initially created to destroy aircraft, it was later upgraded to intercept other missiles mid-flight.

Development and Operational History:

• Origin: The missile entered service in 1960 and underwent continuous upgrades to stay relevant.
• Modernization: Extensive updates prevented it from becoming obsolete, but by 1994, it was replaced by the MIM-104 Patriot in the U.S. Army.
• Decommissioning in the U.S.:
  • Phased out of U.S. service by 2002.
  • Replaced by the man-portable FIM-92 Stinger for the U.S. Marine Corps.
• Global Use: The HAWK missile has been exported widely and remains in use by NATO allies and countries across Asia and the Middle East.

Technical Specifications:

Guidance System:

The HAWK uses a Semi-Active Radar Homing (SARH) system, relying on external radar to guide it toward its target.

Launch and Propulsion:

• Launcher: The missile is transported and launched using the M192 towed triple-missile launcher.
• Propulsion: Powered by a dual-thrust motor, it features both a boost and sustain phase for optimized performance.

Key Capabilities:

• Engages Multiple Targets: Can simultaneously intercept several threats.
• Weather Flexibility: Performs efficiently in a variety of weather conditions.

Legacy and Limitations:

The HAWK missile system, while once cutting-edge, is now considered outdated compared to modern systems like the Patriot missile defense system. However, its legacy of reliability and global adoption underline its historical significance in air defense technology.

6. The Gutti Koya Tribals: A Glimpse into their Society and Culture

Context: The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes has recently directed the Union Home Ministry and the states of Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha to submit a comprehensive report on the Gutti Koya tribals and their current status, reflecting growing interest in their community.

Who Are the Gutti Koya Tribes?

The Gutti Koya are a unique and diverse tribal community that stands out as one of the few multi-racial and multi-lingual groups in India. Their population is primarily concentrated in the states of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.

Language

The Koya speak the Koya language, which belongs to the Dravidian language family. It has close ties to the Gondi language and has been significantly influenced by Telugu over time.

Occupation and Livelihood:

• The Koya are primarily engaged in the Podu system of shifting cultivation, a practice historically relied upon for economic survival in forested regions.
• Additionally, they earn their livelihood through animal husbandry and collecting minor forest produce, which forms an essential part of their daily sustenance.

Cultural Heritage and Festivals:

Sammakka Saralamma Jatra

One of the most significant cultural events for the Koya people is the Sammakka Saralamma Jatra. This biennial festival, held on the full moon day of Magha Masam (January or February), takes place at Medaram village, located in the Mulug taluk of Warangal district, where thousands gather to celebrate their traditions and honor their deities.

Social Structure and Family Life:

The Koya society is organized into five main sub-divisions known as gotrams, and every Koya is born into one of these clans. Clan affiliation is crucial, and individuals remain within their gotram throughout their lives.

Family Structure:

• The Koya people follow a patrilineal and patrilocal family structure, where lineage is traced through the father, and the family unit is typically centered around the nuclear family or Kutum.
• Monogamy is the norm within Koya society, where individuals are expected to maintain single-marriage relationships.

Political and Social Recognition:

While the Koya tribe holds Scheduled Tribe (ST) status in Chhattisgarh, they are yet to be granted the same recognition in some other regions, like Telangana, where they have migrated. This disparity in ST status has been a longstanding issue for the community.

Conclusion:

The Gutti Koya tribals embody a rich tapestry of cultural traditions and linguistic diversity, with their practices, festivals, and social structure deeply rooted in history. As they continue to navigate the challenges of modernity and government recognition, their unique heritage remains a testament to the resilience and richness of India’s tribal communities.