July 8, 2023 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
The BRICS Expansion Debate | Explained
The expansion of BRICS membership has significant implications for India and the world. It offers opportunities such as increased trade and investment, reduced dependence on the US dollar, and enhanced geopolitical influence for India. However, it poses challenges, including the need for well-defined criteria, balancing China's influence, and strengthening the core of BRICS before expanding. Careful evaluation is essential to ensure alignment with India's interests and global objectives.
Highlights of the Day
1. International Maritime Summit: Countries Commit to Net Zero Emissions by 2050, Seek Reductions in Shipping GHG
Maritime countries at the United Nations International Maritime Organization (IMO) summit in London upgraded their GHG emissions strategy, aiming to reach net zero emissions "by or around" 2050. The 2023 IMO GHG Strategy sets targets for reducing international shipping emissions by at least 20% by 2030 and at least 70% by 2040 compared to 2008. The strategy promotes using near-zero emission technologies and fuels, aiming for a 5-10% share by 2030. Certified biofuels can now be used in shipping, potentially making India a major supplier. The strategy also focuses on a just transition for maritime workers and reducing carbon intensity. While progress has been made, some experts believe the IMO falls short of the more ambitious goals of the Paris Agreement. Maritime shipping accounts for 3% of global GHG emissions and needs urgent action to avoid further increases [1].
2. Supreme Court Upholds Rights of Forest Inhabitants Beyond Adivasi Communities
Supreme Court of India: Forest inhabitants, not limited to Adivasi or backward communities, have the right to be heard before eviction from forest lands. The court emphasized that the Forest Rights Act applies to all forest-dwelling communities. The decision overturned an eviction order by the Allahabad High Court, ensuring fair treatment for all claimants and recognizing the importance of a just process [2].
3. Rare 'Brain-Eating Amoeba' Claims Life of Teen in Kerala: Experts Highlight Prevention Measures and Grim Prognosis
A 15-year-old boy in Kerala's Alappuzha district has died from a rare infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, also known as "brain-eating amoeba." The infection, acquired from a stream near his home, led to a rapid deterioration in his health. Naegleria fowleri thrives in warm freshwater environments such as lakes and rivers but does not survive in saline conditions. Cases of infection are extremely rare but can be fatal, causing a severe brain infection known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis. The amoeba enters the body through the nose and spreads to the brain. It does not spread from person to person and is primarily associated with warm freshwater environments during summer months. Preventive measures include avoiding inadequately chlorinated bodies of warm freshwater, using nose clips during water-related activities, and using sterile water for nasal cleansing rituals. Prompt medical intervention is crucial, but the chances of survival are low due to the rapid destruction of brain tissue. Treatment options involve a combination of drugs, but the prognosis remains grim. To manage natural water bodies, activities should be limited, proper hygiene should be maintained, and sterile water should be used for nasal cleaning [3].
4. Iran and Afghanistan Locked in Dispute Over Water Sharing from Helmand River
Iran and Afghanistan are currently embroiled in a dispute over water sharing from the Helmand River. Both countries heavily rely on the river for various purposes, including agriculture, livelihoods, and ecological balance in the region. Iran alleges that Afghanistan is violating its water rights, claiming it receives less water than agreed upon in a 1973 treaty. Afghanistan, however, attributes the reduced water flow to climatic factors such as rainfall shortages. The Helmand River, originating from the Sanglakh Range of the Hindu Kush mountains, is the longest river in Afghanistan and serves as the primary watershed for the Endorheic Sistan Basin, with its watershed separated from that of the Kabul River by the Unai Pass [4].
5. Delhi's 32nd Mango Festival: A Delightful Extravaganza with Over 300 Varieties of Mangoes
The 32nd Mango Festival is set to delight Delhiites with a spectacular display of over 300 mango varieties at Dilli Haat in Janakpuri. Mango growers from across the country are participating, bringing their finest products for visitors to enjoy. The festival, a celebration of the beloved king of fruits, offers mango lovers a chance to relish the diverse flavors and experience the rich cultural significance of mangoes. Alongside the mango display, visitors can engage in mango-eating competitions and savor various mango-flavored delicacies, drinks, and jams. After a hiatus due to the pandemic, the festival has returned, bringing joy to all mango enthusiasts in Delhi [5].
Source: DownToEarth | Indian Express | Hindustan Times
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Consider the following statements regarding Naegleria fowleri:
Statement 1: Naegleria fowleri is a virus that causes brain infections.
Statement 2: It primarily enters the human body through the nasal passage.
Statement 3: Naegleria fowleri infection primarily affects the brain.
Statement 4:The fatality rate associated with Naegleria fowleri infection is low, around 10%.
Statement 5: Naegleria fowleri can spread from person to person through direct contact.
Select the correct statements from the options below:
a) Statements 1 and 4 are correct.
b) Statements 2 and 3 are correct.
c) Statements 2 and 5 are correct.
d) Statements 3 and 5 are correct.
Q2: Which river is at the center of the water-sharing dispute between Iran and Afghanistan?
a) Indus River
b) Ganges River
c) Helmand River
d) Kabul River
Q3: Consider the following statements regarding the Forest Rights Act (FRA) of 2006:
Statement 1: The FRA primarily aims to protect and conserve forest ecosystems.
Statement 2: The FRA grants individual land ownership rights to forest-dwelling tribal communities.
Statement 3: The FRA recognizes and secures the rights of other traditional forest dwellers besides tribal communities.
Statement 4: The FRA was enacted to regulate the exploitation of forest resources by commercial entities.
Select the correct statements from the options below:
a) Statements 1 and 2 are correct.
b) Statements 2 and 3 are correct.
c) Statements 3 and 4 are correct.
d) Statements 1 and 4 are correct.
Q4: Which of the following fundamental duties is NOT mentioned in Article 51A of the Constitution of India?
a) To abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions.
b) To promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood among all the people of India.
c) To protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
d) To pay taxes and fulfill financial obligations to the state.
Q5: Which of the following statements about tribunals in India is correct?
a) Tribunals are constitutional bodies established by the Parliament of India.
b) The decisions of tribunals can be appealed directly to the Supreme Court of India.
c) Tribunals have jurisdiction over both administrative and criminal matters.
d) The purpose of tribunals is to provide speedy and inexpensive justice in specialized areas.
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Discuss the role and significance of tribunals in India's judicial system. Examine their functioning, independence, and effectiveness in providing justice. Also, critically analyze the challenges faced by tribunals and suggest measures for improving their efficacy. (250 words)
Need help in writing or evaluation?
What we see matters
Some insightful observations from past UPSC papers:
Types of food chains in different ecosystems viz. Aquatic, terrestrial, etc. have been asked in previous years' prelims examinations. Students should read about different types of food chains and the roles of producers and consumers in them.
Note: For answer key and explanation of daily practice questions join us at: t.me/tinkerchild
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