January 19, 2024 | Your One-Stop Solution for Daily Preparation
Panchayati Raj | Explained
One of the primary goals of Panchayati Raj is rural development, which has been implemented in all of India's states with the exception of Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Mizoram, as well as all of the Union Territories with the exception of Delhi and a few other places.
Highlights of the Day
1.India's Aviation Ambitions Soar: Targets 300 Million Passengers by 2030
India's Civil Aviation Minister, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, announced at the Wings India 2024 conference that the country's domestic air passenger traffic is projected to reach 300 million by 2030, nearly doubling from 153 million in 2023. Despite this growth, India aims to address its under-penetrated aviation market, targeting an increase from 3-4% to 10-15% globally. The government focuses on capacity expansion, infrastructure development, and simplifying procedures. Highlighting achievements since 2014, Scindia mentioned modernizing or adding 75 airports and plans for over 200 by 2030. India's fleet size is expected to surpass 2,000 aircraft, emphasizing its position as a major global purchaser[1].
2. Tensions Rise as India-Maldives Dispute Over Troop Presence Continues
India expressed hope for a resolution in the dispute with the Maldives over the presence of Indian troops, despite the Maldivian government setting a March 15 deadline for their removal. The tensions escalated after President Mohamed Muizzu prioritized sending back Indian military personnel. India remains committed to its partnership, holding discussions on continued operation of aviation platforms. President Muizzu's remarks and the troop removal deadline pose challenges, with potential implications for development projects. The situation awaits further clarity, with Muizzu's address to Parliament on February 5 and the looming March 17 parliamentary elections[2].
3.Supreme Court Weighs Government's Push for GM Mustard to Enhance Food Security and Reduce Edible Oil Imports
The Supreme Court of India is considering the government's push for genetically modified (GM) crops, particularly GM mustard, emphasizing that it aims to enhance food security and reduce dependence on foreign edible oil imports. The government argues that growing GM crops will make edible oil more affordable for the public. The court acknowledged the need to balance environmental concerns raised by petitioners with the government's duty to ensure the right to food. The government highlighted the economic benefits and increased crop yield associated with GM crops, while petitioners, Gene Campaign and Aruna Rodrigues, raised concerns about regulatory shortcomings and potential risks to indigenous mustard varieties[3].
4.Nations Seek De-escalation in South China Sea Tensions Amidst Rising Concerns
China and the Philippines have agreed to ease tensions in the South China Sea, aiming to manage disputes through friendly negotiations. The nations discussed de-escalation measures, particularly focusing on the Ren'Ai reef (Ayungin Shoal), a site of recent confrontations. While both sides pledged to handle incidents diplomatically, China expressed displeasure over the Philippines congratulating Taiwan's election winner, causing additional strains. The South China Sea remains a potential conflict zone, with various nations claiming territorial waters. The success of tension-reduction efforts is uncertain, given geopolitical complexities and recent disagreements[4].
5.RBI Officials Bullish on India's Economic Outlook: Strong Growth, Investment Shift, and Inflation Focus
RBI officials, led by Deputy Governor Michael Patra, project strong growth for India in 2023-24, attributing it to a shift from consumption to investment. The government's emphasis on capital expenditure is seen to boost private investment. Despite a marginal uptick in headline inflation to 5.7% in December, core inflation (excluding food and fuel) moderated to 3.8%, its lowest in over four years. With potential output rising, officials advocate sustaining momentum with a focus on achieving at least 7% real GDP growth in 2024-25, aligning inflation with targets, and strengthening financial institutions' balance sheets[5].
Source: The Hindu | TOI
Practice Questions for Prelims
Q1: Consider the following statements about the National Commission for Women (NCW):
I. NCW is a constitutional body.
II. The chairperson of the NCW is appointed by the central government.
III. NCW is empowered to inquire into complaints and take suo-motu notice of matters relating to women's rights.
a) Only I
b) I and II
c) II and III
d) I, II, and III
Q2: Consider the following statements about the Bhakti Movement:
I. The Bhakti Movement originated in South India around the 7th century.
II. Bhakti saints often composed devotional poetry in regional languages.
III. The Bhakti Movement emphasized ritualistic practices and caste distinctions.
a) Only I
b) I and II
c) II and III
d) I, II, and III
Q3: Which of the following statements about the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is correct?
I. NTCA is a constitutional body, added as a part of the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976.
II. It is responsible for implementing the Project Tiger initiative.
III. NTCA is chaired by the Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
a) Only I
b) I and II
c) II and III
d) I, II, and III
Q4: The term "Stagflation" refers to a situation where:
a) Inflation is high, and economic growth is low
b) Inflation and unemployment are both low
c) Economic growth is high, and inflation is low
d) Unemployment is high, and inflation is low
Q5: The Mekong River does not pass through which of the following countries?
a) Cambodia
b) Thailand
c) Myanmar
d) Bangladesh
Today’s Question for Mains Answer Writing
Identify and discuss the major challenges faced by Panchayati Raj institutions in India. Propose a strategic approach or policy measure to overcome these challenges and enhance the effectiveness of local self-governance.
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