UPSC DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS (27TH NOVEMBER, 2024)

75th Constitution Day of India

Syllabus: GS2/Polity and Governance

Context

• The 26th November, 2024, marked the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution of India called Constitution Day, or ‘Samvidhan Divas,’. 

About

• On November 26, 1949, the Indian Constituent Assembly formally adopted the Constitution, which came into effect on January 26, 1950, establishing India as a sovereign, democratic, republic.
• In 2015, the Government of India formally declared November 26 as Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas) to honor the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1949. 

Evolution of the Indian Constitution

• Constituent Assembly:
  • After India gained independence in 1947, the Constituent Assembly was formed to draft a new constitution, consisting of elected representatives from across India.
  • Dr. B.R. Ambedkar played a key role as the chairman of the drafting committee. 
  • The assembly took almost 3 years to draft the Constitution, from December 9, 1946, to November 26, 1949.
• Adoption of the Constitution (1950):
  • The Indian Constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950, marking the birth of the Republic of India. 
  • It established India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic.
• Amendments and Evolution:
  • Since its adoption, the Constitution has been amended over 100 times, responding to the changing needs of Indian society and governance. 
  • Key amendments include:
    • The First Amendment (1951), which allowed for restrictions on certain fundamental rights.
    • The 42nd Amendment (1976), which made significant changes during the Emergency period, including the inclusion of the words “socialist” and “secular.”
    • The 73rd and 74th Amendments (1992), which introduced constitutional recognition for local self-government (Panchayats and Municipalities).
• Judicial Interpretations and Constitutional Development:
  • The Judiciary has played a crucial role in interpreting the Constitution. 
  • Landmark cases like Kesavananda Bharati (1973), Maneka Gandhi (1978), and Minerva Mills (1980) have significantly shaped the understanding of fundamental rights, the relationship between the legislature, executive, and judiciary, and the balance of powers.

Key Constitutional Values

• Sovereign: India is a sovereign nation, meaning it has full control over its internal and external affairs, without any interference from external powers.
• Democracy: India is a democratic republic, where the government is elected by the people through free and fair elections, and political power ultimately rests with the people.
• Republic: The head of state (the President) is elected, not hereditary, ensuring that political leadership is determined by merit and democratic processes.
• Secular: The Constitution ensures that all religions receive equal treatment under the law, guaranteeing freedom of religion and protection from religious discrimination.
• Social Justice: The Constitution aims to create a just society by providing for affirmative actions, reservations, and protections for marginalized groups.
• Rule of Law: Every individual, including the government, is subject to the law. This principle ensures that the legal system is fair, transparent, and consistent, providing equality before the law.
• Federalism: The Indian Constitution establishes a federal system of government with a division of powers between the central government and states, allowing both levels of government to exercise authority within their respective jurisdictions.
• Fundamental Rights: The Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to protect the dignity and liberty of individuals against any arbitrary action by the state or authorities.
• Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP): These are guidelines for the government to establish a welfare state, focusing on social and economic justice, and promoting the general welfare of the people.
• Unity and Integrity of the Nation: The Constitution emphasizes the importance of maintaining national unity and integrity, promoting a sense of national identity and solidarity, despite the country’s vast diversity.

Challenging Features of the Constitution

• Federalism vs. Centralization: The tension between the strong central government and the autonomy of states remains a challenge, especially in areas like the distribution of resources and political power.
• Fundamental Rights vs. Directive Principles: Balancing individual freedoms (Fundamental Rights) with the social welfare goals (Directive Principles) can be difficult, as the latter are non-justiciable.
• Affirmative Action: The reservation system for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes is a subject of debate over merit, equality, and the perpetuation of caste-based divisions.
• Judicial Overreach: The judiciary’s role in interpreting the Constitution and striking down laws can sometimes be seen as encroaching on the powers of the legislature and executive.
• Secularism vs. Religious Identity: India’s secularism is challenged by demands for religious-based laws, especially with regard to issues like the Uniform Civil Code and personal laws of different communities.
• Fundamental Rights and National Security: Restrictions on rights in the name of national security or public order (e.g., sedition laws) raise concerns about the balance between civil liberties and state control.
• Constitutional Amendments: The “basic structure” doctrine limits amendments to the Constitution, leading to debates about what constitutes fundamental features that should not be altered.

Why Celebrate Constitution Day?

• Honoring the Constitution’s Legacy: Celebrating Constitution Day honors the sacrifices and efforts of the framers of the Constitution.
• Promoting Constitutional Values: It reinforces the importance of constitutional values like democracy, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
• Encouraging Civic Engagement: It encourages citizens to understand and appreciate their rights and responsibilities.
• Inspiring Future Generations: It inspires future generations to uphold the values enshrined in the Constitution.

Role Women Members Played in the Constituent Assembly

Syllabus: GS1/ Modern India, GS2/Polity and Governance

Context

• On Constitution Day (November 26), President Droupadi Murmu recalled the role women members played in the Constituent Assembly.

About

• The 299-member Assembly had 15 women members, including prominent figures such as Sarojini Naidu, Sucheta Kripalani, and Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit. 
• But it also had lesser-known women from diverse backgrounds who participated in debates on gender, caste and reservations.

Contribution by Women in the Constituent Assembly

• Ammu Swaminathan (1894-1978): She contested Central Legislative Assembly elections on a Congress ticket from Madras in 1945 and then became a member of the Constituent Assembly.
  • She strongly opposed the restrictions imposed on widows, such as shaving the head and renouncing jewellery, after seeing her mother’s experience. 
• Annie Mascarene (1902-1963): She was born in Trivandrum (now Thiruvananthapuram) in a Latin Christian family, considered to be at the lowest rung of the caste system. Despite her social status, she went on to study and teach law.
  • She actively campaigned for a government based on a universal adult franchise.
• Begum Qudsia Aizaz Rasul (1909-2001): Despite being part of the Muslim League, she was among the few members opposing separate electorates based on religion. Her views on the idea of Pakistan were more complex.
• Dakshayani Velayudhan (1912-1978): She was the first Dalit woman to graduate in science in Cochin (now Kochi) and the first Dalit woman in the Cochin Legislative Council.
  • She disagreed with Ambedkar on the need for separate electorates, saying the provision went against nationalism.
• Renuka Ray (1904-1997): A meeting with Gandhi in 1920 led her to quit college and join the freedom struggle, where she went door-to-door to raise awareness.
  • She represented women’s organisations in the Central Legislative Assembly in 1943 and then became a member of the Constituent Assembly.
• Rajkumari Amrit Kaur: The first Health Minister of independent India, she was also a member of the Constituent Assembly.
  • She was deeply involved in the discussions on social welfare, healthcare, and education, with a focus on women’s health and social issues.
• Kamla Devi: A noted social reformer and freedom fighter, also participated in the Constituent Assembly.
  • She was an advocate for women’s rights, particularly in areas of education, social reform, and the empowerment of women.
• Muthulakshmi Reddi: She worked on issues related to the rights of women, including the legal reforms concerning marriage and divorce.

Significance of Women Participation in Constituent Assembly

• The inclusion of women in the Constituent Assembly signaled the recognition of women as equal partners in the democratic process and nation-building.
• They advocated for Women’s Rights and Social Justice.
• Advocated for the inclusion of gender equality in the Constitution with the Article 14, 15 and 42.
• The Hindu Code Bill, which sought to provide equal rights to women in marriage, divorce, inheritance, and property, was influenced by the ongoing discussions and activism by women leaders.

India-Mediterranean Relations

Syllabus: GS2/International Relations

Context

• In a significant address at the 10th edition of the MED Mediterranean Dialogue in Rome, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasised the mutual benefits of strengthening ties between India and the Mediterranean region.

About Mediterranean Region

• It encompasses Southern Europe (Spain, France, Monaco, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, Greece, Malta, and Cyprus); North Africa (Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco), and parts of West Asia (Turkey; Syria; Lebanon; Israel and Palestine).

• This vast area, historically a hub of global commerce, culture, and politics, has seen deepening interactions with India across various domains.

India-Mediterranean Relations

• Historical Ties and Cultural Exchange: Historical records indicate robust trade relations with the Roman Empire and the Greeks. The ancient port city of Muziris on India’s Malabar Coast was a bustling trading post where spices, exotic animals, and gold were exchanged.
  • This historical connection laid the foundation for a rich cultural exchange that continues to influence bilateral relations.

• Strategic and Geopolitical Importance: The Mediterranean’s strategic location makes it a critical area for India’s geopolitical interests. The region serves as a bridge connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe, enhancing India’s connectivity across these continents.
  • This connectivity is vital for India’s Indo-Pacific policy, which aims to ensure a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.
• Political and Defense Cooperation: India’s political relations with Mediterranean countries are robust, with growing defense collaboration through more joint exercises and exchanges.
  • The region’s strategic importance is underscored by India’s participation in the I2U2 grouping, which includes India, Israel, the UAE, and the US, focusing on economic and security cooperation.
  • India and Italy are enhancing their defence ties through agreements and joint ventures which includes maritime domain awareness, information sharing, and defence production collaborations.
• Economic and Trade Relations: India’s trade with Mediterranean countries has grown substantially, reaching approximately USD 80 billion annually.
  • Key sectors driving this trade include fertilizers, energy, water technology, diamonds, defense, and cyber capabilities. 
  • Indian companies are actively involved in significant infrastructure projects across the region, such as airports, ports, railways, and green hydrogen initiatives.
• Connectivity: A major development in India-Mediterranean relations is the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), announced in 2023 with the aim to enhance connectivity and integration between India, the Middle East, and Europe, involving countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and the European Union.
• Cultural and Diaspora Links: The Mediterranean region is home to a significant Indian diaspora, with about 460,000 Indians residing there, 40% of whom are in Italy.
  • This diaspora plays a crucial role in strengthening cultural ties and fostering mutual understanding between India and Mediterranean nations.

Key Concerns Related to India’s Influence in the Mediterranean Region

• Geopolitical Stability: The Mediterranean region is often characterised by political instability and conflicts, particularly in West Asia.
  • The ongoing conflicts, such as the Israel-Palestine issue and tensions in Syria and Libya, pose significant challenges to India’s diplomatic efforts.
  • The success of IMEC depends on overcoming regional conflicts and ensuring seamless cooperation among participating countries
• Energy Security: The Mediterranean region is crucial for India’s energy security, with significant imports of oil and gas from the Middle East and North Africa.
  • Ensuring stable and secure energy supplies amidst regional volatility is a major concern. 
  • Additionally, India’s interests in renewable energy projects, such as green hydrogen initiatives, require robust partnerships and investments.
• Regional Conflicts and Security: The region faces persistent threats from piracy, illicit maritime activities, and conflicts in areas like Gaza and Lebanon. These issues require joint efforts to ensure freedom of navigation and regional security.
  • India’s call for a ceasefire in West Asia and support for a two-state solution in the Israel-Palestine conflict reflect its commitment to regional peace and stability. 
  • Additionally, India’s engagement with both Israel and Iran highlights its balanced approach to regional diplomacy.

Conclusion and Way Forward

• India’s influence in the Mediterranean region is multifaceted, encompassing economic, strategic, and cultural dimensions. 
• Addressing the key concerns of geopolitical stability, economic integration, energy security, diaspora welfare, infrastructure development, and regional conflicts is crucial for strengthening India’s role in this vital region. 
• Through initiatives like the IMEC and proactive diplomacy, India can enhance its engagement and contribute to the stability and prosperity of the Mediterranean region.

Places of Worship Act and The Legal Issues in the Sambhal Mosque Case

Syllabus :GS 2/Governance 

In News

• Recently, a Petition was filed, alleging the Jama Masjid in Sambhal was built on an ancient Hari Har Mandir site.

About the recent issue 

• A district court in Sambhal ordered a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid, following a petition claiming that it was built on the site of a Hindu temple by Mughal emperor Babur in 1526.
• The petitioners (including a local mahant and advocate Hari Shankar Jain) sought to change the religious character of the site.
  • The survey, especially its second phase on November 24, triggered protests in Sambhal, leading to violence and police firing.

Legal Context

• The mosque is a protected monument under the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act, 1904, and is listed by the Archaeological Survey of India as a Monument of National Importance.
• The court’s order was passed ex-parte, meaning the petition was accepted without hearing both parties, raising concerns of fairness.

Role of Places of Worship Act, 1991

• Background: The Places of Worship Act, 1991, was enacted following claims by Hindu groups, regarding the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi and the Shahi Idgah mosque in Mathura, in addition to the Babri Masjid dispute.
  • The Act aimed to preserve the status quo of places of worship as they were on August 15, 1947, and prevent further disputes over these sites.
• Objective of the Act: The Act’s goal was to freeze the religious character of any place of worship as it existed on August 15, 1947.
  • It sought to prevent new claims by any group regarding the historical status of places of worship and to ensure communal harmony.
• Main Features of the Act: The religious character of a place of worship must remain the same as it was on August 15, 1947.
  • It bars any conversion of a place of worship to a different denomination or religion.
  • All pending legal proceedings regarding the conversion of the status of places of worship as of August 15, 1947, were to be terminated.
  • Legal proceedings can only continue if they concern changes to the status after the cut-off date (August 15, 1947).
• Exceptions: The Act does not apply to ancient monuments covered by the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites Act, 1958, or any disputes that were settled before the Act’s commencement.
  • The Act excludes the Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi dispute in Ayodhya.
• Penal Provisions: Anyone attempting to change the religious character of a place of worship faces imprisonment (up to 3 years) and a fine.
  • Those who abet or participate in such actions are also liable for punishment.

Challenges to the Act

• The law is being challenged on the grounds that it bars judicial review, which is a basic constitutional principle.
• The law imposes an arbitrary, irrational retrospective cutoff date (August 15, 1947), which critics argue is unjust.
• It is claimed that the law abridges the right to religion of Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs by preventing them from asserting claims to disputed religious sites.

Supreme Court’s View on the Act

• In 2022, the Supreme Court noted that an inquiry into the religious character of a place as it existed on August 15, 1947, may be allowed, but changing the religious nature is prohibited.
  • This interpretation has opened the door for district courts to hear such suits, despite the 1991 law’s restrictions on conversion of places of worship.

Conclusion and Way Forward 

• The recent  cases underscores the challenges of balancing constitutional principles like secularism, judicial review, and religious rights, all while navigating the delicate issue of preserving the religious character of historical monuments. 
• Ultimately, it remains to be seen whether the legal system will be able to uphold the intent of the Places of Worship Act or whether the courts will find room for exceptions, as some petitioners have suggested, to allow claims over specific disputed religious sites.
•  The matter continues to evolve, and the Court’s intervention in upcoming hearings will likely shape the future course of these disputes.

Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics 2024

Syllabus: GS3/ Agriculture

Context

• The Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying released the annual publication of ‘Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics 2024’ on the occasion of National Milk Day.

What is Animal Husbandry?

• Animal husbandry is the branch of agriculture concerned with the breeding, raising, and care of domesticated animals such as cattle, buffaloes, goats, sheep, pigs, and poultry. 
• It plays a critical role in ensuring food security through the production of milk, meat, eggs, and other animal-based products. 
• In India Animal Husbandry contributes 16% to the income of small farm households.
  • It provides employment to about 8.8 % of the population in India. 

BAHS- 2024: Key Findings

• The Milk Production was 239.30 million tonnes in 2023-24, marking a 5.62% growth over the last decade and 3.78% increase over 2022-23.
  • Top Producing States: Uttar Pradesh (16.21%), Rajasthan (14.51%) and Madhya Pradesh (8.91%).
  • India remains the largest producer globally.
• The Egg Production was 142.77 billion eggs in 2023-24, achieving a 6.8% growth over the last decade and a 3.18% rise over 2022-23.
  • Top Producing States: Andhra Pradesh (17.85%), Tamil Nadu (15.64%) and  Telangana (12.88%).
  •  India is ranked second worldwide.
• Total Meat Production was 10.25 million tonnes in 2023-24, showing a 4.85% growth over the last decade and a 4.95% increase over 2022-23.
  • Top Producing States: West Bengal (12.62%), Uttar Pradesh (12.29%) and  Maharashtra (11.28%)
• Total Wool Production in 2023-24, registered a 0.22% growth over the previous year. However, a decline from 2019-20 was noted.
  • Top Producing States: Rajasthan (47.53%), Jammu & Kashmir (23.06%) and Gujarat (6.18%).

Challenges in Animal Husbandry

• Disease Management: Outbreaks such as foot-and-mouth disease and avian influenza threaten productivity.
• Feed and Fodder Deficiency: Inadequate availability of quality fodder and feed increases costs and reduces yields.
• Low Productivity: Indigenous breeds have lower yields compared to exotic breeds.
• Climate Change: Rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns affect livestock health and production.
• Lack of Infrastructure: Insufficient cold chains, storage facilities, and veterinary services impede growth.

Steps taken by government

• Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM): It was launched to enhance the productivity and genetic improvement of indigenous cattle.
• National Livestock Mission (NLM): It focuses on increasing the productivity of livestock, improving their health, and providing support for fodder and feed resources.
• Dairy Processing and Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF): It supports infrastructure development for milk processing and value addition.
• Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF): It provides financial support for private sector investment in dairy and meat processing.
• Livestock Health and Disease Control (LHDC) Programme: It strengthens disease surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment to improve animal health.
• Pashu Aadhaar: A unique identification system for livestock, ensuring better management and tracking.

Way Ahead

• Technological Interventions: Adoption of precision farming, AI in breeding, and climate-resilient practices.
• Capacity Building: Training farmers in modern techniques and disease management.
• Breed Improvement: Crossbreeding programs to enhance productivity while maintaining genetic diversity.

India signs the Final Act of the Riyadh Design Law Treaty

Syllabus: GS3/ Science and Technology

Context

• India has signed the Riyadh Design Law Treaty (DLT), reaffirming its commitment to fostering inclusive growth and strengthening its intellectual property (IP) ecosystem.

About

• The treaty, adopted after almost two decades of negotiations under the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
• The treaty seeks to harmonize the procedural frameworks for industrial design protection, improving the efficiency and accessibility of registration processes across multiple jurisdictions.
• It ensures that the benefits of streamlined design protection are accessible to all stakeholders, with particular emphasis on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), startups, and independent designers.

Key Provisions of the treaty

• The DLT introduces several key provisions aimed at benefiting design applicants, including;
  • Relaxed time limits and the reinstatement of lost rights, 
  • The option to correct or add priority claims, 
  • Simplified procedures for recording assignments and licenses, and 
  • The option to file multiple designs in a single application.
• The treaty encourages contracting parties to work towards implementing electronic industrial design systems and facilitating the electronic exchange of priority documents.

India’s initiative in safeguarding IPR

• National IPR Policy 2016 encompassing all IPRs into a single vision document setting in place an institutional mechanism for implementation, monitoring and review of IP laws.
  • The policy encourages innovation and creativity by providing stronger protection and incentives for inventors, artists, and creators. 
• Cell for IPR Promotion and Management (CIPAM): It has been set up to coordinate the implementation of the National IPR Policy.
• National Intellectual Property Awareness Mission (NIPAM), a flagship program to impart IP awareness and basic training in educational institutes.
• Scheme for Facilitating Startups Intellectual Property Protection(SIPP): it is introduced to foster innovation and entrepreneurship by providing a supportive ecosystem for startups to protect and manage their IP assets.

Concluding remarks

• India’s signing of the Riyadh Design Law Treaty is a progressive step towards strengthening its intellectual property framework. 
• When combined with initiatives like the Startup India program and the Startups Intellectual Property Protection (SIPP) scheme, these provisions will help empower startups and SMEs by boosting their competitiveness and supporting market growth.

FACTS IN NEWS

Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Day 

Syllabus: GS1/ Modern History

Context

• Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom Day is observed every year on 24 November to honour the sacrifice of the ninth Sikh Guru. 

About Guru Tegh Bahadur

• Early Life: He was born on 1 April 1621 in Amritsar and was the youngest son of Guru Hargobind Sahib, the sixth Sikh Guru.
  • Guru Teg Bahadur was known as Teyag Mal in his youth and he later earned the title “Tegh Bahadur” by his father.
  • In 1664, he became the ninth Sikh Guru.
• Contributions: He established Anandpur Sahib, strengthened Sikh institutions, and added over 700 hymns to the Guru Granth Sahib, leaving a profound spiritual legacy.
• Teachings: His hymns in the Guru Granth Sahib emphasize spiritual liberation, human rights, and equality. 
  • Guru Tegh Bahadur advocated tolerance and opposed tyranny.

Historical Significance

• Guru Tegh Bahadur, revered as Hind ki Chadar (Shield of India), sacrificed his life to protect religious freedoms. 
• In 1675, he was martyred in Delhi, defending the Kashmiri Pandits against forced conversions under Aurangzeb’s rule. 
• The site of his martyrdom is now marked by Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib.

Reang Community

Syllabus: GS1/Tribal Groups

Context

• Members of the Reang community, requested the government to grant recognition to their language, Kaubru.

About

• The ethnic Reang community has demanded that Tripura declare a holiday on Hojagiri Day, which celebrates the traditional Hojagiri dance.
• Reang are the second largest tribal community of Tripura.
• It is one of the 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India.
• Kaubru is the oral language of the Bru ethnic people.
  • The Bru are an indigenous ethnic group living in Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam.
• By religion they are Hindus and most of their deities are akin to gods and goddesses of Hindu faith. 

Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)

• In 1973, the Dhebar Commission set up a separate category for Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs).
  • In 1975, the Union identified 52 tribal groups as PTGs. 
  • In 1993, 23 more groups were added to the list. Later, in 2006, these groups were named PVTGs.
• PVTGs are a more vulnerable group among tribal groups in India.
  • These groups have primitive traits, geographical isolation, low literacy, zero to negative population growth rate and backwardness. 
  • Moreover, they are largely dependent upon hunting for food and a pre-agriculture level of technology.
• According to the 2011 Census, Odisha has the largest population of PVTGs followed by Madhya Pradesh.

Gelephu Mindfulness City

Syllabus :GS 1/Places 

In News

• Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay highlighted the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) as Bhutan’s largest “co-operative project” during the Global Conference of The International Co-operative Alliance in New Delhi.

About Gelephu Mindfulness City(GMC)

• It is a Special Administrative Region in Bhutan, envisioned by His Majesty King Jigme, blending economic growth with mindfulness, holistic living, and sustainability. 
• It is strategically located at the crossroads of South Asia, ASEAN, and China.
• It aims to become a hub for regional connectivity and economic exchange. Leveraging Bhutan’s stable governance, rich spiritual heritage, and commitment to sustainable development
• Importance : It is poised to set a global standard for mindful and harmonious urban growth.
  •  The city integrates economic progress with Bhutan’s cultural values and strong governance to foster a secure, transparent environment for businesses and residents.

National Youth Parliament Scheme (NYPS)

Syllabus :GS 2/Governance 

In News

• The 5th Anniversary of the Web portal of the National Youth Parliament Scheme (NYPS) was observed.

About National Youth Parliament Scheme (NYPS)

• The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs launched the web portal of the National Youth Parliament Scheme (NYPS) on 26th November, 2019, to expand the outreach of the Youth Parliament Programme of the Ministry to all the recognized educational institutions of the country.
• NYPS 2.0 has been introduced so that all the citizens of the country can participate on the portal through –
  • Institution Participation:Through Institution Participation, all the educational institutions of the country can conduct Youth Parliament Sitting (YPS)
  • Group Participation : Through Group Participation, all the citizens of the country can conduct YPS by forming formal or informal Groups.
  •  Individual Participation: Through Individual Participation, all the citizens of the country can participate in the Quiz on the theme of “Bharatiya Democracy in Action”.

Surface Hydrokinetic Turbine (SHKT) Technology

Syllabus: GS3/Science and Technology

Context

• Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has recognized the indigenously developed Surface Hydrokinetic Turbine (SHKT) technology under the Hydro Category.

About

• SHKT, uses kinetic energy of flowing water with practically zero potential head for generation of electrical energy.
  • Conventional units  utilize potential energy of water through construction of dam, diversion weir and barrages for creation of necessary ‘Head’.
• Significance: 
  • Surface Hydrokinetic turbines are easy to install and cost-effective, with generation cost of ₹2-3 per unit. 
  • This technology provides a win-win situation both for renewable energy buyers and generators.
  • This technology has huge potential in GW scale with a lot of opportunities to harness renewable energy, leading to overall growth of the power sector.

Central Electricity Authority 

• It is a statutory organization under the Ministry of Power.
• Functions:
  • Provides technical and policy advice to the government on matters relating to the planning, development, and management of the electricity sector.
  • Prepares the National Electricity Plan (NEP) and the Transmission Plan. 
  • Responsible for setting standards for electrical equipment, grid performance, and safety.
  • Ensures the stability of the national grid, coordinating with grid operators to maintain balance between electricity supply and demand.