July 21, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
The Key Constitutional Amendments | Explained
Explore the key constitutional amendments of the Indian Constitution, which have played a pivotal role in shaping the country's governance and legal framework. From the 1st Amendment Act in 1951, which introduced provisions for socially and educationally backward classes, to the landmark 103rd Amendment Act in 2019, which provided reservation for economically weaker sections, these amendments have had a profound impact on India's polity. Understanding these amendments is crucial for UPSC aspirants, as they reflect the nation's journey towards progress and inclusivity, making them an integral part of India's democratic fabric.
Highlights of the Day
1. Chief Justice’s Strong Stance Against Sexual Assault in Manipur
The Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud, summoned top law officers to address a distressing video depicting sexual assault in Manipur. The court expressed deep concern and demanded swift action from the government. Emphasizing the unacceptability of using women as instruments of violence in a constitutional democracy, the court took suo motu cognizance of the video, highlighting constitutional violations and human rights infringements. The Centre and Manipur government were given an ultimatum to bring the perpetrators to justice or face judiciary intervention. The court instructed immediate remedial, rehabilitative, and preventive actions, with the Union Home Secretary and Chief Secretary for Manipur required to file affidavits detailing the actions taken. The court’s next hearing is scheduled for July 28. The strong stance reflects the court’s dedication to justice and gender equality in the face of violence, demonstrating concern for the victims and commitment to upholding constitutional rights [1].
2. India Bans Non-Basmati White Rice Exports Amidst Price Surge and Domestic Market Concerns The Centre has imposed an immediate ban on the export of non-basmati white rice to ensure sufficient availability in the domestic market and control rising prices. This rice variety constituted a significant 25% of the country's total rice exports. Despite a 20% export duty introduced earlier to lower prices, the export volume surged by 35% in 2023-24, attributed to high global prices due to geopolitical factors, El Nino, and extreme climatic conditions in other rice-producing nations. The ban applies unless shipments commenced or bills were filed before the notification, safeguarding remunerative prices for farmers by not affecting the export policy of basmati rice [2].
3. Supreme Court Refers Delhi Government's Challenge Against Ordinance on Civil Services Power to Constitution Bench The Supreme Court has referred the Delhi Government's challenge against the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance, 2023, to a Constitution Bench. The ordinance grants power over civil services in Delhi back to the Lieutenant Governor, leading to a state of governance paralysis. The court rejected the Delhi Government's request to prioritize this case over the Article 370 hearing. The Constitution Bench will decide whether the ordinance constitutes a constitutional amendment and nullifies the State's power over civil services. The Central government had promulgated the ordinance following a previous judgment in favor of the Delhi Government's authority over laws and civil services in the capital [3].
4. Rajya Sabha Chairman Reconstitutes Vice-Chairpersons' Panel with 50% Women Members Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar reconstituted the panel of vice-chairpersons with half of them being women. The new vice-chairpersons include P. T. Usha, S. Phangnon Konyak, Fauzia Khan, Sulata Deo, V. Vijaysai Reddy, Ghanshyam Tiwari, L. Hanumanthaiah, and Sukhendu Sekhar Ray. The chairman highlighted that 50% of the vice-chairpersons are now women. According to Rajya Sabha rules, the chairman can nominate up to six vice-chairpersons, and they hold office until a new panel is nominated. Additionally, Mr. Dhankhar informed the House about accepting the resignation of Luizinho Faleiro, a Rajya Sabha member from West Bengal, effective from April 11, 2023 [4].
5. ISRO Successfully Conducts Hot Test of Gaganyaan Service Module Propulsion System for Human Spaceflight Mission The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a successful hot test of the Gaganyaan Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS) at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Tamil Nadu. The test involved five liquid apogee motor (LAM) engines and 16 reaction control system (RCS) thrusters, demonstrating the integrated performance of the propulsion system for the Gaganyaan Orbital Module. The SMPS performs vital functions during the ascent phase, including orbit injection, on-orbit control, and de-boost maneuvers. With the successful completion of the hot test, ISRO plans to conduct five more tests to validate nominal and off-nominal mission scenarios. The Gaganyaan project aims to demonstrate human spaceflight capability with a three-member crew mission to orbit for three days [5].
Source: The Hindu
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: The term "Pangolins" is often seen in the news. What are they?
a) Small carnivorous mammals
b) Scaly anteaters
c) Tropical bird species
d) Endangered marine turtles
Q2: Which of the following organizations releases the "Global Gender Gap Report" annually, measuring gender equality across various countries?
a) World Economic Forum (WEF)
b) United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
c) International Monetary Fund (IMF)
d) World Health Organization (WHO)
Q3: Which of the following countries border the Caspian Sea?
a) Kazakhstan, Russia, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Iran
b) Russia, Iran, Iraq, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan
c) Iran, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Russia
d) Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan
Q4: Statement 1: The "Doctrine of Lapse" was a policy implemented by Lord Dalhousie during the British rule in India. Statement 2: The Doctrine of Lapse allowed the British East India Company to annex princely states if they did not have a natural heir.
Select the correct option:
a) Only Statement 1 is true b) Only Statement 2 is true c) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are true d) Neither Statement 1 nor Statement 2 is true
Q5: The 'Great Indian Bustard' is one of the critically endangered species found in India. Consider the following statements about it:
I. It is a large bird belonging to the crane family, known for its distinctive black crown on the head and a neck ruff. II. The Great Indian Bustard is primarily found in the arid and semi-arid grasslands of Western India. III. The species is migratory in nature, and during the breeding season, it travels to the Himalayan region.
Which of the statements above is correct?
a) I and II only b) II and III only c) I and III only d) All of the above
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Renewable energy technologies have seen significant advancements in recent years. Discuss the potential of these technologies in shaping the future of global energy systems. Highlight the advantages, challenges, and key areas of focus to accelerate their adoption on a large scale. Provide examples of successful renewable energy projects to illustrate your points. (Word limit: 250 words).
Need help in writing or evaluation?
What we see matters
Some insightful observations from past UPSC papers:
A noticeable trend in recent UPSC prelims has been an increased focus on questions related to government initiatives and programs aimed at social welfare, poverty alleviation, and inclusive growth. Candidates are expected to be familiar with various flagship schemes and policies to uplift marginalized sections of society.
Note: For answer key and explanation of daily practice questions, join us at: t.me/tinkerchild
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