AMIGOS IAS Daily Current Affairs (12^th July 2024)

SC verdict on alimony for Muslim Women: A Step forward amid religious polarization

GS 2: Polity and Governance: Women related issues

Why is it in the news?

• The Supreme Court has ruled that a divorced Muslim woman can seek alimony from her husband under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).
• This landmark judgment marks a significant shift from the 1985 Shah Bano case, as Justices BV Nagarathna and A.G. Masih dismissed a husband’s petition challenging a Telangana High Court order to pay his ex-wife a monthly maintenance of Rs 20,000.
• This progressive step advances the rights of vulnerable minority women, who have historically faced legal discrimination in matters of marriage and family due to the lack of reformed personal laws.

A Perspective

• Section 125 has been in place since 1973, and it is a religion-neutral provision applicable to all married women, regardless of their religion. Upholding diversity and pluralism is crucial in a secular democracy, but it is important not to confuse diversity with patriarchal practices that subjugate women and violate their rights.
• In the aftermath of Shah Bano’s case, conservative clergy and leaders defended personal laws against the imposition of secular laws, claiming it violated Shariat and minority rights. Under pressure, the Rajiv Gandhi-led government overturned the court’s ruling through legislation, enacting a separate Shariat-compliant law for divorced Muslim women’s maintenance.
• Muslims in India are governed by the Shariat Application Act of 1937, which is outdated and leaves many important issues without legal clarity. Patriarchal interpretations often dictate matters such as marriage age, divorce, maintenance, polygamy, and child custody, among others. Although Muslim marriage is a contract, many women lack knowledge of their rights and do not possess their nikahnama. The prevalent notion of husbands’ superiority in marital relationships further complicates this issue.
• Conservative clergy have long resisted reforms, asserting that Islam granted women rights 1,400 years ago. However, these rights are often not realized in practice. Reform advocates are frequently demonized, and their efforts dismissed as Western or Hindutva influences. Consequently, Muslim women continue to be denied both their Quranic and constitutional rights.
• In the current climate of religious polarization, the condition of Muslim women is often used to portray the community negatively. Many Muslims live in fear and insecurity, unable to fully appreciate this progressive verdict. Nonetheless, a significant number within the community welcome this judgment, reflecting a growing awareness of women’s rights. The movement against instant triple talaq, which received widespread community support, illustrates this shift.

Conclusion

• While patriarchy has not been eradicated, even for women with legal protections, an enabling legal framework can empower women to seek justice.
• The Supreme Court’s 2017 ruling against instant triple talaq and the recent judgment on maintenance are steps toward legal equality for Muslim women.
• Justice Nagarathna emphasized that maintenance should be seen not as charity but as a fundamental right that transcends religious boundaries.

For further information refer article on 11/07/2024 – SC: Divorced Muslim Women entitled to secular remedy

Record-high temperatures in western US due to ‘heat domes’

GS 1: Geography: Heat Dome

Why is it in the news?

• The entire western United States is experiencing a severe heatwave, which began last week, affecting nearly 75 million people with heat alerts and causing temperature records to fall.
• California is the hardest hit, with at least a dozen cities breaking all-time high-temperature records. For instance, on July 5th and 6th, Redding in Northern California saw unprecedented highs of 48.33°C and 47.22°C, while Ukiah, north of San Francisco, experienced similarly extreme temperatures.
• Palm Springs in Southern California reached a record-breaking 51.11°C. This extreme heat and dryness are due to a heat dome centred over California.

Heat Dome

About:

• A heat dome is a weather phenomenon where a high-pressure system in the atmosphere traps warm air like a lid on a pot, preventing it from rising. This keeps the sky clear, as clouds form when rising warm air cools and condenses.
• The high-pressure system allows more sunlight to reach the earth, warming and drying the soil, reducing evaporation and the formation of rain clouds. The longer a heat dome remains in place, the warmer conditions become.
• While heat domes can cause heatwaves, which can also occur without heat domes.

About Heat Wave: A heat wave is defined as a prolonged period of unusually high temperatures, surpassing the normal maximum temperature, lasting for more than two days. These events typically occur between March and June, with some occurrences extending into July in rare cases.In India, the IMD defines a heatwave based on specific temperature thresholds: 40 degrees Celsius or more for plains, 37 degrees Celsius or more for coastal areas, and 30 degrees Celsius or more for hilly regions.

Role of Jet Stream:

• The formation of a heat dome is tied to the behaviour of the jet stream, a fast-moving air current high in the atmosphere that usually moves weather systems.
• The jet stream typically follows a wave-like pattern, but when these waves become elongated and slow-moving, they can become stationary, causing a high-pressure system to get stuck in place, leading to a heat dome.

Impact of climate change on heat dome:

• Climate change impacts on heat domes are still under debate among scientists, but there is consensus that rising global temperatures have made heat domes larger and more intense.
• A 2021 study by an international team of climate researchers found that the extreme temperatures during the 2021 heat dome in Canada would have been virtually impossible without human-caused climate change.
• Another study published in Nature in 2023 indicated that the intensity of heat domes is outpacing the rate of global warming, suggesting that climate change is fuelling their intensity. The study noted that the intensities of hot extremes associated with heat dome-like atmospheric circulations increase faster than the background global warming in both historical and future projections.

Additional Information:

Effects of Heat Domes:

• Soaring Temperatures: Heat domes can cause temperatures to surge far above average levels, often exceeding 45°C (113°F) in affected regions.
• Health Hazards: Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can result in heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke, dehydration, and respiratory problems. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly and children, are particularly at risk.
• Increased Wildfire Risk: The intense heat dries out the ground, significantly raising the chances of wildfires. Dry conditions and low rainfall further heighten the risk of these blazes.
• Energy Grid Strain: The heightened use of air conditioning and cooling systems during heat domes puts substantial pressure on energy grids, leading to potential power outages and blackouts.
• Wildlife Impact: Extreme heat can be deadly for wildlife. For instance, iconic Howler monkeys in Mexico have been known to drop dead from trees due to heatstroke.
• Agricultural Damage: The trapping of heat can damage crops, dry out vegetation, and lead to droughts, adversely affecting food production and ecosystems.

Remedies for Coping with Heat Domes:

• Stay Hydrated: Ensure adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water and avoiding dehydrating beverages like alcohol and caffeine to prevent heat-related illnesses.
• Seek Shelter: During the hottest parts of the day, stay indoors in air-conditioned or cool environments to reduce heat exposure.
• Dress Appropriately: Opt for lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing to stay cool and comfortable in high temperatures.
• Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours to prevent heat exhaustion and other related health issues. In places like Guatemala, authorities have implemented bans on outdoor activities in schools to protect children.
• Use Cooling Devices: Utilize fans, air conditioners, and other cooling devices to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.
• Energy Conservation: Promote energy conservation practices by using energy-efficient appliances and minimizing the use of unnecessary lights and electronics during heat waves.
• Wildfire Prevention: Adhere to local guidelines for wildfire prevention, such as refraining from lighting open fires in dry conditions and clearing flammable materials from around homes.
• Community Support: Check on vulnerable neighbors, including the elderly and individuals with health conditions, to ensure they have access to cooling resources and are safe during periods of extreme heat.

Conclusion:

Heat domes represent a severe weather phenomenon characterized by extreme temperatures and substantial health risks. By comprehending the causes, effects, and mitigation strategies outlined above, individuals and communities can enhance their readiness and resilience in confronting these challenging climatic conditions.

How PM Modi’s visit to Austria sends a message both to Moscow and the West

GS 2: International Relations: India-Austria

Why is it in the news?

• Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Vienna marked the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Austria since 1983, when Indira Gandhi made the trip.
• The timing of Modi’s visit immediately following his meeting with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow holds strategic significance.

More about the news

• Austria, as a non-NATO European country, stands apart from the US-led anti-Russia trans-Atlantic alliance, a fact underscored by the gathering of NATO leaders in Washington DC during Modi’s visit.
• During his visit, Modi emphasized global attention on his discussions, particularly conveying India’s deep concern over the suspected Russian missile attack on a children’s hospital in Kyiv. This incident occurred while Modi was in Russia, echoing a pattern of escalating conflicts despite diplomatic engagements.
• In Vienna, Modi reiterated India’s stance against war, emphasizing that conflicts cannot resolve issues and lamenting the loss of innocent lives anywhere.

Country born neutral

• Austria’s historical stance on neutrality is rooted in its post-World War II history. Following Nazi occupation and subsequent Allied supervision, Austria gained independence through the 1955 Austrian State Treaty.
• This treaty, ratified by the occupying powers including the Soviet Union, mandated Austria’s perpetual neutrality akin to Switzerland. The Austrian constitution prohibits military alliances and foreign military bases on its soil, cementing its status as a neutral state in the heart of Europe.

Austria and Nehru

• In the early 1950s, Austria sought Jawaharlal Nehru’s assistance in achieving sovereignty, recognizing his influence with both Western and Soviet powers. India’s support for Austria’s appeal at the United Nations General Assembly in 1952 was pivotal, as noted by Austrian Foreign Minister Karl Gruber, who acknowledged India’s significant role in advancing Austria’s cause amidst the East-West conflict.
• Nehru’s diplomatic mediation during the Austrian treaty discussions introduced a new dynamic, as documented by British historian Sir John Wheeler-Bennett.
• In June 1955, shortly after Austria secured independence with the State Treaty, Nehru made a historic state visit, becoming the first foreign leader to do so. Chancellor Karl Nehammer recently recalled Nehru’s instrumental role, emphasizing India’s pivotal support in concluding the State Treaty negotiations.

Evolution of ties

• Diplomatic relations between India and Austria were established in November 1949, marking their 75th anniversary this year.
• The relationship evolved significantly, with reciprocal visits between leaders like Chancellor Fred Sinowatz’s trip to India after Indira Gandhi’s 1983 visit, and subsequent exchanges including President K R Narayanan’s visit to Austria in 1999, President Heinz Fischer’s in 2005, and President Pratibha Patil’s in 2011.
• Austria’s current Foreign Minister, Alexander Schallenberg, has a personal connection to India through his father, Wolfgang Schallenberg, who served as Austria’s Ambassador to India.
• Alexander Schallenberg’s career path mirrored his father’s, culminating in his appointment as Foreign Minister in 2019 and briefly as Chancellor in 2021. His rapport with Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar, both sons of prominent government figures, underscores the deepening diplomatic ties and shared interests between the two nations.

Austria matters to India

• Chancellor Nehammer and Prime Minister Modi, during their recent meeting, acknowledged the potential for significantly enhancing bilateral relations between India and Austria.
• They emphasized a forward-looking economic and technological partnership, aiming to expand cooperation through new initiatives and joint projects.
• Austria presents extensive opportunities for collaboration across various sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy, e-commerce, fintech, enterprise tech, consumer services, and media and entertainment.
• Both nations have maintained balanced positions amidst the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Despite Austria’s support for EU sanctions against Russia, Chancellor Nehammer’s visit to President Putin in April 2022 highlighted Austria’s role in diplomatic dialogue aimed at resolving the conflict. While critical of Russian actions in Ukraine, Austria continues to uphold substantial commercial ties, including gas imports from Russia.

Conclusion

• Modi’s engagement with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer symbolizes India’s diplomatic strategy to foster relations beyond traditional alliances, navigating complex global dynamics while advocating for peace and stability.
• The visit not only reaffirms historical ties but also signals India’s proactive role in shaping global discourse on peace and security.

Additional Information:

Hightlights of the Visit:

• Political and Security Cooperation:
• Commitment to a Free and Rules-Based Indo-Pacific: Both leaders reiterated their commitment to a free and rules-based Indo-Pacific, emphasizing adherence to international law, including UNCLOS, and promoting maritime security, peace, and stability.
• Support for Peace: Leaders exchanged assessments on Europe and West Asia/Middle East, prioritizing peace restoration, conflict avoidance, and adherence to international law and UN principles for achieving lasting peace in Ukraine.
• Condemnation of Terrorism:Both leaders reiterated their strong condemnation of terrorism in all forms and called for concerted international action, including through multilateral platforms like UN Security Council 1267 Sanctions Committee, FATF and NMFT, against those who support or commit terrorist acts.
• Economic Patnership: India and the European Union, possessing the world’s largest free-market space, emphasized the mutual benefits and global positive impact of deepening their ties, reaffirming support for ongoing negotiations and the EU-India Connectivity Partnership.
• Sustainable Economic Partnership:
• Climate Change Commitments: Leaders affirmed their commitment to UNFCCC goals, aiming to limit global temperature rise below 2°C. They highlighted EU’s 2050 climate neutrality target, Austria’s goal for 2040, and India’s aim for net zero emissions by 2070.
• Renewable Energy Partnership: Acknowledging Austria’s Hydrogen Strategy and India’s Green Hydrogen Mission, leaders supported joint efforts in renewable and green hydrogen technologies.
• Environmental Technologies Cooperation: Leaders identified clean transportation, water management, waste management, renewable energy, and digital technologies as key areas for collaborative ventures, urging both public and private sectors to invest in these sectors.
• Skill Development and Academic Partnerships: Emphasized skill development and mobility of skilled personnel through a bilateral Migration and Mobility Agreement, fostering high-tech sector engagement while addressing irregular migration, and promoting future-oriented academic partnerships in science, technology, and engineering.
• People-to-people Ties:     
• Cultural Exchange: Leaders appreciated cultural exchanges, emphasized roles of Austrian Indologists and Indian cultural figures, noted rising Austrian interest in yoga and Ayurveda, and endorsed efforts to deepen bilateral ties across arts, sports, and recent Cultural Cooperation MOU.     
• Tourism Promotion: They recognized tourism’s impact  in generating economic, sustainable and inclusive growth as well as greater understanding between the people of both countries and  urging agencies to enhance two-way flows through increased flights and extended stays.
• Multilateral Cooperation:
• Commitment to Multilateralism: Prime Minister Modi and Chancellor Nehammer reaffirmed their dedication to multilateralism and the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter. They pledged to uphold these principles through regular bilateral consultations and coordination at various multilateral forums.
• United Nations Reforms: Both leaders reiterated their commitment to comprehensive reforms of the United Nations, particularly its Security Council. India endorsed Austria’s candidacy for the UNSC term 2027-28, reciprocated by Austria supporting India’s candidacy for 2028-29.
• International Solar Alliance Membership: Prime Minister Modi extended an invitation to Austria to join the International Solar Alliance, highlighting its recent milestone of welcoming its 100th member.

The comprehensive dialogue and agreements between Prime Minister Modi and Chancellor Nehammer underscore a strong commitment to deepen political, economic, and cultural ties between India and Austria, fostering mutual prosperity and continually exploring new avenues for cooperation and partnership across these domains to strengthen their relationship.

Delhi HC upholds 50% warning label requirement for pan masala packages

GS 2: Polity and Governance: Policies and Interventions

Why is it in the news?

• The Delhi High Court upheld the Central Government’s decision to mandate that statutory warnings on pan masala packages cover 50% of the label’s front area, replacing the previous 3 mm font size.
• This ruling followed a petition by Dharampal Satyapal Limited, known for brands like Rajnigandha and Tansen, challenging the regulation set to take effect in May 2024 by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

More about the news

• Dharampal Satyapal Limited argued that there was no scientific basis for the substantial increase in warning size, citing a lack of studies by the Scientific Panel or Committee under the FSS Act prior to the decision. They pointed out that the decision to increase the warning size to 50% was made without proper deliberation as required.
• In response, the FSSAI defended the decision, highlighting the historical evolution of the warning statements and arguing that the larger warning size was crucial for enhancing consumer awareness about the health risks of pan masala. They justified it as a reasonable restriction under Article 19(6) of the Indian Constitution, aimed at public health improvement.
• Under Article 19(6) of Indian Constitution, the state is not prevented from making a law imposing reasonable restrictions on the exercise of the fundamental right in the interest of the general public.
• The Delhi High Court, in its judgment on July 9, dismissed the company’s contention, noting that the recommendation for the 50% warning size was based on scientific opinions from the Scientific Panel on Food Additives. The court emphasized that the regulation serves the legislative intent of protecting public health, citing expert reports and guidelines supporting the decision despite global recommendations for a complete ban on pan masala.
• The court criticized the company’s resistance to the increased warning size while acknowledging the health hazards associated with pan masala, implying that their objections were motivated by personal interests rather than concern for public health.

Additional Information:

About Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI):

• The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
• It was established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
• FSSAI aims to ensure citizens have safe and nutritious food, prevent diseases, and promote a healthy life.
• Its mission is to set global standards for food safety, ensure food businesses adhere to these standards, and promote good manufacturing and hygiene practices.

SJM seeks ‘robot tax’ for AI-induced job loss

GS 3: Economy- Tax

About the news

• Ahead of the Union Budget, the Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM), affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has proposed a ‘robot tax’ to offset job losses due to Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption.
• The tax would fund programs to upskill displaced workers, addressing the immediate human impact of technological advancements. SJM also advocated tax incentives for industries that prioritize employment generation based on productivity.
• This proposal aligns with global discussions on mitigating AI-related disruptions and strengthening social safety nets, as highlighted by recent International Monetary Fund (IMF) recommendations.

Additional Information:

About the  International Monetary Fund (IMF):

• The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an international organization that offers financial assistance and advice to its member countries, established during the Bretton Woods Conference in July 1944.
• Objectives:
• Foster global monetary cooperation and stability
• Ensure financial stability and provide crisis assistance
• Facilitate international trade with stable currencies
• Promote sustainable growth and employment through effective policies
• Reports Published by IMF: World Economic Outlook (WEO), Global Financial Stability Report (GFSR), Fiscal Monitor (FM) and Regional Economic Outlooks.

What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the intelligence exhibited by machines, simulating human processes like learning, reasoning, and self-correction.
• Coined by John McCarthy in 1956, AI has become a broad term encompassing technologies from robotic process automation to robotics, with applications in various fields including healthcare and military.
• AI can be categorized into two types:
• Weak AI, which is limited to specific tasks such as personal assistants like Alexa and Siri, and
• Strong AI, which performs complex tasks requiring human-like problem-solving abilities, such as self-driving cars.

Arguments in Favor of AI Replacing Human Labor:

• Efficiency and Cost Reduction: AI enhances efficiency in repetitive tasks, reducing operational costs by automating labor-intensive processes.
• Improved Accuracy and Consistency: AI systems deliver higher accuracy and consistency in tasks requiring precise calculations or data analysis.
• 24/7 Availability and Speed: AI can operate continuously without fatigue, ensuring faster outcomes and service delivery.
• Safety in Hazardous Environments: AI-driven automation ensures safety and efficiency in dangerous environments like deep-sea exploration and space missions.

Arguments Against AI Replacing Human Labor:

• Complex Decision-making and Creativity: AI struggles with nuanced decision-making, creativity, and intuition, where human cognition excels.
• Ethical and Moral Decision-Making: AI lacks ethical judgment and moral reasoning, making it unsuitable for roles involving moral dilemmas.
• Human Interaction and Empathy: Jobs requiring human interaction, empathy, and emotional connection, such as caregiving, are challenging for AI to replicate authentically.
• Regulatory and Trust Concerns: Concerns about AI’s reliability, bias, and accountability raise regulatory and trust issues, impacting its widespread adoption.

Conclusion:

Balancing AI’s capabilities with the value of human labor is essential for a future that optimizes technology and ensures social welfare. Investing in adaptable skills will allow individuals to thrive alongside AI, fostering a future where human expertise and technological innovation complement each other.

Practice MCQ:

Q. With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following? (UPSC 2020)

1. Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units

2. Create meaningful short stories and songs

3. Disease diagnosis

4. Text-to-Speech Conversion

5. Wireless transmission of electrical energy

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only

(b) 1, 3 and 4 only

(c) 2, 4 and 5 only

(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Answer: B

India hosts BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers amid raging Myanmar crisis

GS 2: International Relations: BIMSTEC

Why is it in the news?

• External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar underscored the imperative for BIMSTEC member countries to collectively tackle regional challenges during the inaugural Foreign Ministers’ retreat on July 11.
• This meeting held heightened significance against the backdrop of ongoing turmoil in Myanmar, where the military junta is facing setbacks in clashes with Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs).

More about the news

• Jaishankar emphasized the pressing need to address longstanding goals such as capacity building and fostering economic cooperation among the BIMSTEC nations.
• The gathering marked a significant milestone as it was the first of its kind since the formal adoption of the BIMSTEC Charter on May 20, signalling a new phase in the organization’s evolution.
• The instability in Myanmar has posed significant challenges for BIMSTEC, especially impacting developmental and connectivity projects aimed at strengthening ties between member states including Nepal, Bhutan, India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Thailand. The recent loss of Naungcho, a strategic town on a trade route to China, by the military junta underscored the volatile situation.
• Following discussions with Myanmar’s Deputy Prime Minister, Jaishankar highlighted the crucial nature of connectivity projects and the need for border stability discussions. However, India’s Ministry of External Affairs has not clarified its stance on extending humanitarian aid to Myanmar’s affected civilian population, limiting support thus far to displaced populations and Myanmar military personnel seeking refuge in Mizoram.
• India has adopted a cautious approach to the Myanmar crisis, prioritizing cooperation on countering transnational crimes such as cybercrime, narcotics trafficking, and illegal arms trade among the BIMSTEC nations.
• Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s commitment to regional stability during discussions with counterparts from Myanmar and Thailand.
• The retreat was attended by Foreign Ministers from Bangladesh, Thailand, Myanmar, and Bhutan, highlighting the regional cooperation agenda despite challenges. Nepal and Sri Lanka were represented at the meeting by officials due to internal political developments, with Nepal’s Foreign Minister abstaining ahead of a critical confidence vote in the government.

Conclusion

• Overall, the retreat served as a platform for BIMSTEC nations to address current regional challenges collaboratively, emphasizing the organization’s role in promoting economic integration, connectivity, and stability across the Bay of Bengal region.

Additional Information:

About BIMSTEC:

• BIMSTEC, founded in 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration, initially included Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Later it expanded with Myanmar joining, and later Nepal and Bhutan becoming full members in 2004.
• The organization aims to enhance technical and economic cooperation among Bay of Bengal nations.
• It covers a region with a population of 1.5 billion and a combined GDP exceeding USD 3.8 trillion.
• BIMSTEC comprises Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, with its permanent secretariat located in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
• Aim: BIMSTEC aims to boost regional growth through mutual cooperation, leveraging regional resources and geographical advantages, to counter the challenges posed by globalization.
• Recently, the BIMSTEC charter came into force on May 20, 2024, granting the organization legal personality and paving the way for structured diplomatic engagement and deeper regional integration.
• Significance:
• Aligned with India’s Act East Policy: BIMSTEC supports India’s Act East Policy, enhancing trade and security influence in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific regions.
• Alternative to SAARC: BIMSTEC serves as a viable alternative to SAARC, particularly after India’s efforts to isolate Pakistan at the 2016 SAARC summit.
• Counter to China’s Influence: India uses BIMSTEC to counterbalance China’s expanding Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) influence in South and Southeast Asia.
• Promotion of Intangible Culture: Initiatives like India’s Centre for Bay of Bengal Studies (CBS) at Nalanda University foster research and preservation of cultural heritage in the region.
• Platform for Regional Cooperation: BIMSTEC facilitates enhanced cooperation across South and Southeast Asia, especially in security and disaster management.
• Challenges:
• Inefficiency and Slow Progress: BIMSTEC struggles with inconsistent policy-making, infrequent operational meetings, and insufficient resources for its Secretariat, hindering effective governance and decision-making.
• Limited Intra-Regional Trade and Connectivity: The BBIN connectivity project among Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal remains unfinished, stalling regional trade integration despite the signing of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in 2004, with only two of seven necessary agreements currently in place.
• Challenges in Maritime Trade and Fisheries: The Bay of Bengal, a significant fishing zone, faces issues with Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, contributing to environmental degradation and regional tensions.
• Internal Member State Issues: Persistent challenges include the Rohingya refugee crisis, border disputes between India and Nepal, and Myanmar’s political instability following a military coup, complicating regional cooperation and stability within BIMSTEC.

Practice Mains Question:

Q. Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC? What are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organisation? (UPSC 2022)

During conflict, there is no such thing as strategic autonomy: U.S. Ambassador

GS 2: International Relations- India-U.S.

Why is it in the news?

• U.S. Ambassador Eric Garcetti emphasized that during conflicts, countries cannot maintain “strategic autonomy,” stressing the necessity for India and the U.S. to collaborate closely in crisis situations.
• His remarks, made at a Delhi conference on India-U.S. defence and security, highlighted tensions over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Russia amid Western concerns over Russian actions in Ukraine.

More about the news

• Garcetti underscored the importance of collective action against those disregarding sovereign borders, alluding to recent global conflicts without explicitly naming them.
• The U.S. has expressed reservations about India’s relationship with Russia, including concerns raised directly with Indian officials regarding Modi’s unannounced Moscow visit.
• Despite these concerns, India has upheld its stance on independent bilateral relations and strategic autonomy with Russia.

Note: Strategic autonomy refers to a state’s ability to pursue its national interests and foreign policy independently, adapting to the security environment to safeguard India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Cauvery panel asks Karnataka to ensure flow of water for Tamil Nadu

GS 2: Polity and Governance: River water disputes

About the news

• On July 5, 2024, the Krishnaraja Sagar dam’s water level reached 100 feet, nearing its full capacity of 124.80 feet. Karnataka reported to the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) that between June 1 and July 9, 2024, the total inflow into four reservoirs was 41.651 tmc ft, a 28.71% deficit compared to the average inflow in previous years.
• In response, the CWRC directed Karnataka to maintain a daily flow of one tmc ft (11,500 cusecs) at Biligundlu until July 31 to meet Tamil Nadu’s water needs.
• Karnataka requested deferring the decision until July 25, citing reduced water inflow. The total storage in Karnataka’s four reservoirs is currently 58.66 tmc ft, while Tamil Nadu’s three reservoirs hold 24.705 tmc ft. Additionally, 4.905 tmc ft from Mettur and 0.618 tmc ft from Bhavani are being released into the river.
• Tamil Nadu argued that Karnataka had failed to maintain adequate river flow for environmental reasons from February to May 2024. They insisted that current conditions were normal, and water flow at Biligundlu should adhere to the Cauvery Water Dispute Tribunal’s ruling upheld by the Supreme Court.

Additional Information:

Key facts about Cauvery River:

• The Cauvery River is the third largest river in southern India, following the Godavari and Krishna rivers. It is the largest river in the state of Tamil Nadu, where it is known as ‘Ponni’ in Tamil.
• Origin: The river originates at an elevation of 1,341 meters at Talakaveri on the Brahmagiri range near Cherangala village in Kodagu district of Karnataka.
• Course: The Cauvery flows through the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and the Union Territory of Puducherry, ultimately draining into the Bay of Bengal at Poompuhar in the Mayiladuthurai district of Tamil Nadu.
• Tributaries:
• Left Bank Tributaries: Arkavathi, Hemavathi, Shimsa, and Harangi
• Right Bank Tributaries: Lakshmantirtha, Suvarnavati, Noyil, Bhavani, Kabini, and Amaravathi
• National Parks in Cauvery basin include Bandipur National Park, Nagarhole National Park and Bannerghatta National Park.

Overview on Cauvery Water Dispute:

• The Cauvery Water Dispute is a prolonged conflict over the allocation of the Cauvery River water, involving Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and Puducherry. The dispute focuses on water distribution for irrigation, drinking, and industrial use.

Background:

• Originated in 1892 between the Presidency of Madras and Princely State of Mysore.
• IN 1924, reached an agreement between Mysore and Madras, valid for 50 years, ceased in 1974. Post-1974, Karnataka diverted water to new reservoirs without Tamil Nadu’s consent, sparking disputes.

Formation of CWDT and Final Award:

• The Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) was established in 1990 under the Inter-State Water Disputes Act, 1956.
• CWDT issued its final award in 2007, specifying the amount of water that each state should receive during different periods of the year : Tamil Nadu: 419 TMC ; Karnataka: 270 TMC ; Kerala: 30 TMC ; Puducherry: 7 TMC and Reserved: 10 TMC for environmental purposes and 4 TMC for sea outlets.
• The tribunal’s award lacked a detailed formula for water shortage situations.

Subsequent Developments:

• Government notified the CWDT order in 2013 following Supreme Court direction.
• Tamil Nadu approached the Supreme Court, as Karnataka didn’t follow the tribunal’s award.In 2018, the Supreme Court  upheld most of CWDT’s arrangements: Karnataka: 284.75 TMC ; Tamil Nadu: 404.25 TMC ; Kerala: 30 TMC & Puducherry: 7 TMC
• SC declared Cauvery a national asset and directed the centre for establishment of the Cauvery Water Management Scheme.
• The central government constituted the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) and the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) in June 2018.

Practice Questions:

Which of the following Protected Areas are located in Cauvery basin? (UPSC 2020)

1. Nagarhole National Park

2. Papikonda National Park

3. Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve

4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 and 4 only

(c) 1, 3 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: C

• Constitutional mechanisms to resolve the inter-state water disputes have failed to address and solve the problems. Is the failure due to structural or process inadequacy or both? Discuss. (UPSC 2013)