Current Affairs Insights CLAT, AILET & OLETS August-2024 PDF

Contents 1. Indian Art & Culture 1 1.1 Palestinian Site of Tell Umm Amer.............................. 1 1.2 Sangameswara Shrine....................................................... 1 2. History 3 2.1 The Red Fort Trials............................................................. 3 3. Society & Social Issues 5 3.1 Women’s Safety In India.................................................. 5 3.2 Hakki Pikki Tribe................................................................ 7 4. Geography & Disaster Management 9 4.1 Kerala Landslides................................................................ 9 4.4 ISRO’s ‘Landslide Atlas’..................................................13 4.2 Urban Floods In India....................................................10 4.5 Indian Ocean’s Underwater Geographical 4.3 World Mangrove Day: Their Conservation Structures Being Named................................................14 in India..................................................................................12 4.6 Supermoon Blue Moon..................................................15 5. Polity & Governance 17 5.1 Sub-Classification of SC and ST Categories............17 5.9 Municipal Corporation ‘Aldermen’ can 5.2 Census Delay and Concerning Impacts..................19 directly be nominated by The Delhi LG: 5.3 Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024....................................20 Supreme Court...................................................................26 5.4 India’s Sports Performance..........................................22 5.10 Egg or Sperm Donor has no Legal Right 5.5 Lateral Entry In The Bureaucracy............................23 on Child: Bombay HC.......................................................27 5.6 Secular Civil Code.............................................................24 5.11 Delimitation Commission’s Orders Aren’t 5.7 SC To Examine Acquitted Man’s ‘Right To Be Immune From Judicial Review....................................28 Forgotten’.............................................................................26 5.12 Lok Adalats..........................................................................28 5.8 India to Donate USD 85 Million to Medicine 5.13 Hema Committee Report...............................................29 Centre in Gujarat...............................................................26 6. International Relations 31 6.1 Sheikh Hasina’s Ouster And Impact on 6.6 Global Refugee Crisis and Displacement India-Bangladesh Ties...................................................31 Trends....................................................................................37 6.2 India and Vietnam............................................................32 6.7 IPEF’s Supply Chain Council........................................38 6.3 Indian PM’s Ukraine Visit..............................................33 6.8 G4 Nations On UNSC Reforms.....................................38 6.4 India-Poland Relations...................................................34 6.9 India-Australia Boost Maritime Ecology 6.5 2nd BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat..............35 in Indo-Pacific Initiative.................................................39 6.10 India-Malaysia Relations...............................................40 7. Indian Economy 42 7.1 Trade Policy For Viksit Bharat....................................42 7.6 Quality Council of India introduces 7.2 India Faces ‘Middle Income Trap’..............................43 QCI Surajya..........................................................................47 7.3 Self-Regulation on Fintech Sector.............................44 7.7 World Investment Report 2024..................................48 7.4 The Creator Economy: Potential & 7.8 NCERT Report Highlights Issues in Challenges............................................................................46 KGBVRTSEPFP Schools......................................................................49 7.5 India at Forefront of Digital Revolution..................46 7.9 SEBI New Guidelines: AIFs Category I, II................49 7.10 109 High-Yielding Seed Varieties...............................50 ii CURRENT AFFAIRS August 2024 www.pw.live 8. Environment & Biodiversity 54 8.1 Need For a Permanent Environmental 8.3 Gross Environment Product Index............................55 Regulator..............................................................................54 8.4 Three More Ramsar Wetland Sites Now 8.2 Chhattisgarh Approves Country’s Third in India..................................................................................56 Largest Tiger Reserve.....................................................55 8.5 CITES Eases Export of Agarwood From India......57 9. Science & Technolgy 59 9.1 National Space Day 2024...............................................59 9.6 ISRO launched EOS-08 Earth Observation 9.2 Chandrayaan-3’s Finds Evidence of Magma Satellite................................................................................63 on Lunar Surface...............................................................61 9.7 India’s Own Natural Methane Mitigator.................64 9.3 Discovery of 34 New Giant Radio Sources.............61 9.8 Mpox Declared as Public Health Emergency 9.4 Ladakh As Potential Analogue Research of International Concern...............................................65 Site For Moon, Mars Mission Studies.......................62 9.9 FSSAI Addresses Microplastic Contamination 9.5 Discovery of Liquid Water On Mars For in Food...................................................................................65 The First Time....................................................................62 9.10 Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs)....................................66 9.11 Caller Id Spoofing.............................................................67 10. Ethics 69 10.1 Conflict of Interest............................................................69 Places In News...................................................................71 Personality In News.........................................................70 Miscellaneous....................................................................73 11. Test Yourself 76 RTSEPFP www.pw.live August 2024 CURRENT AFFAIRS iii Indian Art & Culture 1 Indian Art & Culture 1.1 PALESTINIAN SITE OF TELL UMM Description: Referred to as “the first monastic community in the Holy Land”. AMER Role: Recognized as a significant hub for Context: The World Heritage Committee (WHC) decided to include the Palestinian site of Tell Umm Amer in religious, cultural, and economic activities. both the UNESCO World Heritage Site List and the Saint Hilarion Monastery Lost of World Heritage in Danger during its 46th y Location and Foundation: session in New Delhi. Situated at Tell Umm el-‘Amr, Gaza Strip, Palestine. World Heritage Committee (WHC): This committee is a part of UNESCO. Founded around 340 CE by Hilarion, a key figure in Palestinian monasticism. It is responsible for selecting sites for the UNESCO world heritage list. y Features: It also oversees the world heritage fund and Includes five churches, bath complexes, provides financial assistance to state parties mosaics, and a large crypt. when requested. Originally a thriving religious site. This committee meets once a year. List of World Heritage in Danger About: The List of World Heritage in Danger is Historical Background maintained by UNESCO through the World Heritage The site is an ancient Christian monastery Committee. established in the fourth century. Establishment: Established under Article 11.4 of Founder: Founded by Hilarion the Great (291- the World Heritage Convention, created in 1972, 371 CE), a prominent figure in Palestinian the list identifies World Heritage Sites facing monasticism. significant threats and needing major conservation efforts. About Tell Umm el-‘Amr y Its purpose is to raise international awareness This site is situated in the Nuseirat refugee camp, of these threats and promote protective Deir al-Balah Governorate, Gaza Strip, Palestine. measures. The site is near the Mediterranean coast, approximately 1,000–2,000 feet from it. 1.2 SANGAMESWARA SHRINE Surrounded by palm groves to the east and southeast, bordering Deir al-Balah. Context: The Sangameswara temple submerged in the backwaters of the Krishna River again. Site Features y Includes the Monastery of Saint Hilarion and Sangameswara Temple other religious buildings such as a church and Location: The Sangameswara Temple is located in cloister. Kothapalli mandal, Nandyal district, Andhra y Contains facilities for monks like dormitories Pradesh, India. and various rooms. Presiding Deity: The temple is dedicated to Lord y Features a hotel complex and baths likely used Shiva, who is worshipped in the form of a Neem by pilgrims. wood Lingam. Religious Significance: y The monastery is dedicated to Hilarion of Gaza. y Kshetram: RTSEPFP In addition to Lord Shiva, the temple complex houses shrines dedicated to Surya, y Nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mrityunjaya, Saraswathi, Subrahmanya Swamy, y UNICEF Listing: Anjaneya Swamy, and Narasimha Swamy. www.pw.live August 2024 CURRENT AFFAIRS 1 Indian Art & Culture y Legend: According to legend, the wooden Confluence of Seven Rivers: The temple is named Lingam (Sangameshwaram) was installed by “Sangameshwara” as it is situated at the confluence Dharmaraja, the eldest of the Pandavas, after of seven rivers: Bhavanasi, Krishna River, and its their visit to the Srisailam Mallikarjuna temple. five tributaries—Veni, Tunga, Bhadra, Bheemarathi, and Malapaharini. Historical and Architectural Details y Built by: The present-day temple was built by Pulakeshin II of the Chalukyas in 740 AD. y Architectural Style: The temple is constructed in the Nagara style on an elevated platform with fortified walls. It features 12 large pillars and a notable relief of a large Nagaraja on the ceiling. NEWS IN SHORT World Craft City Tag Recently, Srinagar was officially named a World Craft City by the World Crafts Council (WCC), recognizing the city’s rich tradition in crafting, joining three other Indian cities (Jaipur, Malappuram and Mysore) and 60 cities globally. Other Indian Cities: Jaipur - Known for Block printing, blue pottery, and hub for Gemstone Jewelry. Malappuram - Famous for ancient stone carving techniques in temples. Mysore - Famous for its exquisite silk sarees, Sandalwood Carvings, and traditional Mysore paintings About World Crafts Council International (WCC) It is a Non-profit, non-governmental organization Establishment: Founded on June 12, 1964. Headquarters: Kuwait Cultural Property Agreement India and the United States of America have signed their first- ever ‘Cultural Property Agreement.’ Cultural Property Agreement Aim: To prevent and control the illicit trafficking of antiquities from India to the USA. y The CPA limits the importation of specific Indian archaeological and ethnological materials into the United States. y It will facilitate the prompt seizure of Indian antiquities at US Customs and their return to India. Significance: Enhances cultural diplomacy, promotes tourism, and enriches education, among other benefits. Efforts to Prevent Antiquities Smuggling: Global Level: Article 9 of the 1970 UNESCO Convention aims to prohibit and prevent RTSEPFP the illicit import, export, and transfer of ownership of cultural property. National Level: Section 3 of the Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972, prohibits the export of antiquities from India. 2 CURRENT AFFAIRS August 2024 www.pw.live History 2 History 2.1 THE RED FORT TRIALS Causes of Trials: British desire to reassert authority, to divide indian by playing on communal Context: Decades after the Red Fort trial, it is hoped lines etc. that India’s leaders find the wisdom to commit themselves again to what unites us citizens as a people. Action by Britishers: The colonial government had been warned against holding the trials but it went The Red Fort trials, held in 1945-46, were a ahead, believing that a majority of Indians would significant event in India’s struggle for think of the INA personnel as traitors. independence. Charges Faced: First in the dock were three top captured INA members, Shahnawaz Khan, Prem Sahgal and Gurbaksh Dhillon. They were jointly charged with waging war against the nation (Section 121 of Indian Penal Code or IPC) and were individually charged for murder and abetment to murder. Support by Indians: But the ensuing media attention of the case, also called the Red Fort trials, resulted in many Indians getting acquainted with a force that had fought for independence. y Demonstrations: It led to sympathy for the INA across the country, and before long, demonstrations began springing up in About Red Fort Trials different parts in solidarity with the The Red Fort Trials, also known as the Indian National captured troops. Army trials or the INA trials. y Violent Clashes and Sacrifices: The protests Background: faced brutal police repression in several cities, y The Indian National Army (INA), led by Subhas particularly in Madras and Calcutta. Chandra Bose, was formed during World War II In Madras, the police opened fire on with the support of Japan to fight against British protesters, killing five. rule in India. Calcutta became the epicentre of these y Many soldiers from the British Indian Army protests. Eventually, the police opened fire joined the INA. and 97 protesters were killed. y However, after the war, the British captured Action by Congress: The Congress also took notice several soldiers, INA officers and decided to put of the widespread support for the INA soldiers and them on trial for treason, murder and other realised that this could be a way to reignite the charges. enthusiasm and hunger in the country for The historic court martial commenced independence. on November 5, 1945. y Congress leader and the country’s first Prime y Trial at Red Fort: The decision was made to Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, also got on board hold a public trial, and it was decided to hold the INA officers’ legal defence team, along with these at the Red Fort. party colleague Bhulabhai Desai and barrister Tej Bahadur Sapru. Time Period: These were a British Indian court- martial held between November 1945 and May y The team put up an impeccable defence, arguing 1946 of a number of officers of the Indian National the actions of the INA troops were legal that RTSEPFP Army (INA) on various charges of treason, and within the terms of the Indian National torture, murder, and aiding and abetting murder Army Act, and thus exempt from the IPC and during World War II. the Indian Army Act. www.pw.live August 2024 CURRENT AFFAIRS 3 History Result: The three INA members were found guilty y The freedom struggle, for which the INA was of waging a war. They were, however, not given conceived, finally came to fruition two years the death sentence but dismissed from service after the Red Fort trials. As Bose had and handed transportation for life, which too predicted, “when the British government is was remitted. The three INA members were then thus attacked from inside India and from released and welcomed as heroes, with the outside, it will collapse, and the Indian people Congress showing full support in the celebration. will then regain their freedom”. Continuation of Trials and Revolts: The release of the three, however, did not result in the rest of the Significance and Achievements of the Red captured INA troops going on trial. Fort Trials y Although the British Indian Army was The INA trials, held during India’s independence recommended to cease the trials, as it could struggle, were a watershed moment in the fight against lead to mutinies, the force’s then commander- British colonial rule. They represented the Indian in-chief, Claude Auchinleck, decided to go people’s unbreakable spirit and determination in ahead with the rest of them. their quest for freedom. y This led to the loyalties of the serving Indian Widespread Protests: The country experienced Armymen shifting towards the country as the widespread protests in multiple cities, including majority turned nationalist. The resistance of Delhi, Calcutta, Madras, Lahore, Bombay, Patna, Indian armed forces to British pressure kept and Lucknow, with people from all religious and growing, as well as their loyalties towards the social backgrounds uniting to demand justice for nation. the INA officers. Phase of Mass Mutiny: In January 1946, a massive Slogans and Unity: Both the Indian National strike was imposed by officers and pilots of the Congress and the Muslim League supported the Royal Indian Air Force (RIAF). By February, the INA officers (use of slogans like “Death to British ships of the Royal Indian Navy (RIN) also joined Imperialism!” and “Hindu-Muslim Unity the mutiny. Civilians in Mumbai joined the strikes Zindabad!”). as well. y Protesters used slogans like “Laal Quila se aayi y This was a clear sign of mass mutiny to the aawaaz, Sahgal, Dhillon, Shahnawaaz!” and British government, which resulted in the “Hindu-Muslim Unity Zindabad!”. final dialogue of independence between the y This episode emphasised the nationalistic British government and India. attitude and unity. Impact: The punishment given to them and y The INA trials will go down in history as a Jawaharlal Nehru on August 20, 1945 said that it testament to the unwavering commitment of would in effect be a punishment on all India and individuals and the collective strength of a all Indians, a deep wound would be created in nation striving for independence. millions of hearts.” End to British Rule: These trials’ emotional y It was the trials that galvanised a country and resonance and public support contributed to the strengthened its resolve to gain complete broader momentum that eventually led to the end Independence. of British colonial rule in India. A Symbol of Freedom: Delhi’s Red Fort had been Legacy of Partition: The trials were a moment of an enduring symbol of India’s quest for freedom national unity against British rule, but also a ever since the Revolt of 1857. prelude to the Partition. RTSEPFP 4 CURRENT AFFAIRS August 2024 www.pw.live Society & Social Issues 3 Society & Social Issues 3.1 WOMEN’S SAFETY IN INDIA y As per NCRB, the victim count for workplace Context: The recent rape and murder of a doctor in sexual harassment against women has Kolkata has once again highlighted the brutal increased from 402 in 2018 to 422 in 2022. atrocities against women, even in 21st century India. Cultural Norms and Misogyny: Prevailing misogyny and cultural norms promote male Reasons Behind Lack of Women’s Safety in superiority, victim-blaming, and sexual violence, India while societal biases discourage women from reporting crimes. Economic Dependence: Limited economic independence and lack of property rights weaken Weak Legal Systems: Ineffective legal responses women’s ability to protect themselves. and slow prosecution create a culture of impunity, failing to deter sexual crimes. y The female contribution to GDP is 18 per cent, Patriarchy and Gender Inequality: Deep-rooted one of the lowest in the world, reflecting the patriarchy perpetuates male dominance and fact that women make up only 25 per cent of gender-based violence. the labour force. Public Safety: Poor infrastructure, like poorly lit Underrepresentation: Women are under- streets and unsafe public transportation, increases represented in government and corporate women’s vulnerability to crime. leadership, limiting their influence on policy and y For example: Nirbhaya Rape in a public business practices. transportation and Kolkata rape in a public hospital highlights the lack of public safe spaces for women. Challenges in Ensuring the same Intention and Outcome of The Women Safety Laws Liberal Bail Regime: A liberal bail regime cannot Low Workforce Participation: Women’s be sustained RTSEPFP independent of other judicial participation in the labor force is largely informal, reform. with minimal social protection and a significant risk of workplace violence despite the POSH Act. y Dowry Death: Of the 3,449 cases of dowry death cases disposed off by the courts in 2022, www.pw.live August 2024 CURRENT AFFAIRS 5 Society & Social Issues 64 per cent were disposed of without a trial sexual violence made repeatedly by and only 35 per cent of the tried cases resulted autonomous women’s movements. in a conviction. y Of the staggering 85,2598 cases of cruelty by Government Initiatives husbands pending trial, a mere 7.7 per cent Mission Shakti: It is another noteworthy were disposed of, of which 87 per cent were endeavour by the government, seeking to enhance disposed of without a trial. women’s safety, empowerment, and participation in the workforce. Larger failure is the chasm between intention and outcome: y Mission Shakti has created an enabling environment for women to thrive and actively y Promises made in the aftermath of the horrific contribute to society. gangrape incident in 2012 have largely been reduced to lip service y AIM: This mission aims to address gender biases, discrimination, and the care burden y Allocation of Funds: The 100 per cent on women through skill development, increase in the budgetary allocation of the capacity building, financial literacy, and Nirbhaya Fund for 2024-25 could be access to micro-credit. appreciable. One-Stop Centres (OSCs): Integrated services y Fund Used: But, data shows that between provided under one roof, such as police, medical 2013 (when it was set up) and 2022, less and legal aid, counselling, and psycho-social support than half of the allocation had been used. through One-Stop Centres (OSCs), ensure Half-hearted implementation of Act: It has been comprehensive assistance for women affected found that the implementation of the Sexual by violence. Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, A toll-free women’s helpline (181) further offers Prohibition, Redressal) Act, notified in 2013, has emergency and non-emergency support. been half-hearted. Working Women Hostel: The objective of the y In May 2023, the Supreme Court called out scheme is to promote availability of safe and “authorities/management/employers” for conveniently located accommodation for working failing to ensure a “safe and secure workplace” women for women. y With day care facility for their Backlogged and Delayed Justice: India’s judicial children,wherever possible, in urban, semi system is notoriously backlogged and cases can urban, or even rural areas where employment take years to go through the courts. opportunity for women exist. y For many women, this adds to the stigma of Community Policing Models: Initiatives like the reporting a rape or sexual assault, because of Pink Patrol in Jaipur involve women police the long delay they face to get any form of officers patrolling public spaces to enhance justice. visibility and address safety concerns Police Force: The largely male police force also Investigation Tracking System for Sexual needs to change - women make up just under 11 Offenses: MHA has launched it to monitor and per cent, far behind the UK, where female officers track time-bound investigation in sexual assault constitute a third of overall law enforcement. cases in accordance with Criminal Law y In 2022: India Justice Report, which surveys (Amendment) Act 2018. the state of law enforcement, said it would take Meri Saheli Intiative: Launched by the railway 24 years to reach the police’s target of 33 per Protection force, this intiative ensures security of lady passengers that are traveling by train by a cent female representation. dedicated Mahila officers team. Ignoring Verma Committee Recommendation: The Verma Committee, which was formed after the Conclusion December 2012 gangrape in Delhi, had People power has brought attention to the plight of recommended making command responsibility women in India. But that is no longer enough. For liable to prosecution, especially when states meaningful change, policymakers need to reform the ignore their duty to prevent mass scale sexual institutions that can directly improve the lives of violence. half the population. RTSEPFP Women in the world’s largest y The BNS also ignored the serious democracy deserve that. recommendations to redress and prevent 6 CURRENT AFFAIRS August 2024 www.pw.live Society & Social Issues 3.2 HAKKI PIKKI TRIBE y Scheduled tribes are tribal communities in Context: The Hakki Pikki tribe is known for producing India that have been recognized by the Indian and selling a variety of herbal products, including their Constitution under ‘Schedule 5’. distinctive hair oil. Society: The society is matriarchal in nature. Distinctive Tradition: The eldest son in a family Hakki Pikki Tribe is not supposed to cut his hair for easy About: The Hakki Pikki tribe is a semi-nomadic identification. tribe living in forest areas in west and south India. Indo-Aryan Language: Despite living in Southern Traditional Occupation: The term “Hakki Pikki” India, surrounded by Dravidian languages, they translates to ‘bird catchers’ in Kannada, reflecting speak an Indo-Aryan language. their historical occupation as bird catchers and Mother Tongue: They speak Vaagri at home and hunters. use Kannada for daily interactions. Geographical Spread: They are a major tribal y Vaagri Booli is an unclassified tribal Indo- community in Karnataka, also residing in other Aryan language of southern India. Western and Southern states of India, particularly Endangered Language: UNESCO has listed Hakki near forest areas. Pikki as one of the endangered languages. Migration History: Originally from Northern India, Religious Practices: They follow Hindu traditions mainly Gujarat and Rajasthan, they are now and celebrate Hindu festivals. primarily found in the Shivamogga, Davanagere, and Mysuru districts of Karnataka. Marriage Customs: The tribe prefers cross-cousin marriages. Scheduled Tribe Status: They are recognized as a Scheduled Tribe in India. NEWS IN SHORT Bagata Tribe The Bagata tribal people, still live without electricity and remain in darkness. About Bagata Tribe: The Bagata, also known as Bagatha, Bagat, Bagodi, Bogad, or Bhakta, are an aboriginal tribe in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, India. y They trace their name to devoted warriors (Bhaktas) of former rulers. Dance Forms: y Dhimsa: A popular and energetic dance enjoyed by all ages. y Sankidi Kelbar: Collective term for their dances. Language: Bagata speak with one another in a form of the Oriya language. One of their main languages is Telugu. Their local dialect is Adivasi Oriya. Social Structure & Inheritance: y Paternal property is equally divided among sons, with the eldest receiving an extra share (jesty bhag). y Daughters usually do not inherit parental property but may receive some of their mother’s ornaments. Marriage: y Preferred types: Mutual consent, elopement, and marriage by service. RTSEPFP www.pw.live August 2024 CURRENT AFFAIRS 7 Society & Social Issues ‘Jan Poshan Kendras’ The government has launched a pilot project to rename 60 Fair Price Shops (FPS), or ration shops, as ‘Jan Poshan Kendra’ across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh. About Jan Poshan Kendras: The initiative is designed to address the demands of ration dealers by offering them new income opportunities through these renamed shops. Objective: To modernize the shops and ensure affordable, quality nutrition for all, supporting the broader goal of community empowerment. These FPS will now provide food products to consumers while also helping FPS dealers earn more income. These Kendras will stock 50% nutrition-rich food items and keep some space reserved for other household essentials. y It will help in offering customers more diverse product options. RTSEPFP 8 CURRENT AFFAIRS August 2024 www.pw.live Geography & Disaster Management 4 Geography & Disaster Management 4.1 KERALA LANDSLIDES y Natural causes that trigger it include heavy Context: Recently, several people were killed after rainfall, earthquakes, snow melting and landslides swept through the wayanad in Kerala. undercutting of slopes due to flooding. Anthropogenic Activities: Such as excavation, More on News cutting of hills and trees, excessive infrastructure The landslide was triggered by excess precipitation development, and overgrazing by cattle at Mundakkai in Mepadi panchayat, Wayanad. y Excess Load: The risk from landslides has been Magnitude: The landslide’s magnitude was such exacerbated by the failure to remain mindful of that, it spewed debris and water as far as six to the terrain’s ability to withstand the load. seven kilometres down the valley and the heavy water surge from the hilltop altered the small Iruvazhinji river y In normal landslides, the debris flow would be limited to 1–1.5 km, High-Susceptibility Zone: The area is considered a high-susceptibility zone by the GSI for landslides after the 2019 landslide at Puthumala, hardly 5 km away. What is Landslide? Landslides: Sudden movement of rock, boulders, earth or debris down a slope is termed a landslide. Factor: When the pull from gravity exceeds the strength of the geomaterial forming the slope of a hill or mountain. y Lack of Regulations: Many hilly areas do not have building regulations. Often, regulations are not implemented effectively. y Construction and Development: New constructions, infrastructure development, and even agricultural practices can increase the risk of landslides. y Deforestation and Land Use Changes: Deforestation: The clearing of forests for agriculture, urban development, and logging reduces the Earth’s capacity to absorb CO2, exacerbating global warming. Agricultural Practices: Intensive farming practices, including the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, contribute to nitrous oxide emissions, a potent Reason for Landslides - Human Pressure greenhouse gas. Natural Factors: Occurs mainly in mountainous y Greenhouse Gas Emission: Glacial Lake RTSEPFP terrains where there are conducive conditions of Outburst Floods (GLOF) events have increased soil, rock, geology and slope. www.pw.live August 2024 CURRENT AFFAIRS 9 Geography & Disaster Management due to rising global temperatures as Warmer About Urban Flooding temperatures can weaken the ice or sediment Refers: Urban Flooding can be defined as ‘the barriers holding back the water, making them submergence of usually dry areas by a large more susceptible to breaking. amount of water that comes from sudden GLOFs are sudden releases of water and excessive rainfall, an overflowing river or lake, sediment from lakes blocked by natural melting snow or an exceptionally high tide’. barriers like moraines or glacier ice. Concerning Data: As per the data from the government, over 17,000 people died due to floods and heavy rains in India between 2012 and 2021. Reasons behind Urban Flooding in India Climate Change: Global Climate Change is resulting in changed weather patterns and increased intensity rainfall events occurring in shorter periods. 4.2 URBAN FLOODS IN INDIA Context: Various Indian cities are experiencing severe flooding, highlighting systemic issues in urban planning and drainage infrastructure. y Example: Urban flooding is significantly Recent Concerning Cases of India different from rural flooding as urbanization leads to developed catchments, which increases Delhi: This year, several parts of Delhi have been the flood peaks from 1.8 to 8 times and flood submerged for more than one day. volumes by up to 6 times. Assam: Guwahati, Assam has faced a crippling flood. Urban Heat Island Effect: According to the NDMA, the urban heat island effect has increased rainfall Maharashtra: Torrential rains brought lives to a over urban areas. standstill in several parts of Maharashtra, including Pune and Mumbai. y The hot air pushes the clouds carrying rain Similarity in All Cases: All these cities have distinct higher as they cross the urban heat island. geographical features. However, there are at least Encroachment in Low Lying Areas: The original three things that are common to their flood-related built-up area of Indian cities has expanded and new woes: developments are taking place in low-lying areas of Indian cities and towns due to rising land prices and y Outdated Drainage Systems: It cannot take less availability of land in the cities. the stress of more than normal rainfall Faulty Drainage System: Poor planning and y Poor Planning: Planning that does not account impermeable surfaces, such as buildings and for local hydrology highways, do not let water penetrate the ground RTSEPFP y Limited Civic Response: The role of civic and overburden the inadequate drainage systems. agencies seems limited to organising relief and Urbanisation: Rapid urbanisation, both planned rescue and unplanned, is responsible for flooding. 10 CURRENT AFFAIRS August 2024 www.pw.live Geography & Disaster Management y Grey infrastructure which includes the Loss of Water Bodies and Green Spaces: A study flyovers, widening of roads, urban settlements, by the National Institute of Urban Affairs revealed contribute towards urban flooding in that major Indian cities have lost 70-80% of their waterlogged areas. water bodies over the last 40 years. y The recent floods in Gurugram and Bengaluru y This has led to reduced natural water storage are examples of such planning failures. capacity, increased surface runoff, and disruption of the natural water cycle. Illegal Mining: Illegal mining of river sand and quartzite causes soil erosion and reduces the water retention capacity of the waterbody increasing the speed and scale of water flow. y Example: Jaisamand Lake-Jodhpur, Cauvery river-Tamil Nadu, etc. Various Government Initiatives to Curtail Urban Flooding Amrit Sarovar Mission: It has been launched with an aim of developing and rejuvenating 75 water bodies in each district of the country as a part of celebration of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav for rainwater harvesting/recharge. Atal Bhujal Yojana: The focus is on demand side management of ground water and accordingly water saving interventions such as use of micro irrigation (drip/sprinkler system), shifting of cropping pattern from high water intensive crops to low water intensive crops, mulching etc. are being Model Building Bye Laws (MBBL): The Ministry encouraged and incentivised. of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has formulated Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Model Building Bye Laws (MBBL), 2016 for the Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0: Provisions have States/UTs. As per MBBL, all buildings having a plot been made for harvesting the rainwater through size of 100 sq.m. or more shall mandatorily include storm water drains into the water body (which is RTSEPFP the complete proposal of rainwater harvesting. not receiving sewage/effluent) & creation/ y 35 States/ UTs have adopted the features of the strengthening of storm water drains around the Bye Laws. water body. www.pw.live August 2024 CURRENT AFFAIRS 11 Geography & Disaster Management 4.3 WORLD MANGROVE DAY: THEIR protecting coastal areas from erosion. CONSERVATION IN INDIA y It stabilizes sedimentation and mitigates coastal flooding, thus providing a valuable Context: 26 July, is marked as the International Day for Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystems as declared by defence against natural disasters. the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and y A recent study estimated that India’s mangrove Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2015. systems provide annual flood protection benefits of over $7.8 billion. About Mangroves Ecosystem Services: Mangrove provide critical Location: Mangroves are found in tropical and habitats of a diverse range of plant and animal subtropical areas, i.e., between 25°N and 25°S species, and marine organisms, including latitude. commercially important fish species. y Sundarbans host the world’s largest mangrove forest and are home to endangered species like the Bengal tiger and Ganges river dolphin. Significance: Mangroves are often called ‘sentinels of the coast’ given their ability to protect shorelines, absorb impacts of storms and cyclones, support fish nurseries, lock up carbon and nutrients, provide a gene pool, and offer a host of other benefits. Adaptation: Mangroves have specialized adaptation to survive in the extreme conditions of the coastal environment. They have the ability to survive in waterlogged and anoxic soil, and to tolerate brackish water Natural Filter: Mangrove forests improve water with the adaptations. quality and act as natural filters by trapping sediments, pollutants and excess nutrients. y Stilt Roots Carbon Sequestration: Globally, they are estimated y Pneumatophores to sequester 22.86 metric gigatonnes of CO2, y Salt Excretory Glands which is about half the annual CO2 emissions y Salt Excluding Roots from fossil fuels, land-use and industry. y Viviparous seeds Livelihood: Roughly about 60% of India’s coastal There are 24-29 families and around 70 species marine fish species are dependent on the in the world. mangrove ecosystem. Global Rankings: Indonesia has the largest area of y Mangrove forests play a crucial role in mangrove forest – totalling 20% of the global total nurturing estuaries and supporting nature- – followed by Brazil, Australia, Mexico and based economies. Nigeria, which together contain almost half of the Tourism and recreation: Mangroves provide world’s mangroves. opportunities for eco-tourism, birding, kayaking, and other RTSEPFP nature-based activities that can Significance support local communities’ sustainable economic Disaster Mitigation: Mangrove coverage acts as a growth. natural barrier, reducing the impact of waves and 12 CURRENT AFFAIRS August 2024 www.pw.live Geography & Disaster Management Challenges Faced by Mangrove Ecosystem such as Mangroves of the Thane Creek in Stress on Mangrove: National Decadal Wetland Mumbai. Change Atlas, published by Space Application Declining Diversity: According to the IUCN red list, Center in February 2022, reports that between 11 of the 70 mangrove species in the world (16 2006 and 2018, the natural coastal wetlands percent) are at an elevated threat of extinction. declined from 3.69 million ha to 3.62 million ha. y Among them, two species, namely Sonneratia griffithii (critically endangered) and Heritiera fomes (endangered), are found in India. Oil Pollution: Oil spill causes physical suffocation and toxicological impacts to mangroves. y Spilled oil covers the aerial breathing mangrove roots inhabiting gaseous exchange and disrupting oxygen transport to underground roots leading to death of trees. Conclusion India’s 2030 vision of becoming a five trillion economy rests on ten elements — one of which is the blue economy — the economy sustained by coasts and Conversion of Intertidal mudflats to Wetland: oceans. Ensuring that our sentinels of the coast are The intertidal mudflats have decreased by a conserved and effectively managed is critical to this whopping 116,897 ha, and salt marshes by 5,647 goal. And this would require that mangrove conservation ha. efforts incorporate major policy and programming y Thus, mangrove plantation on mudflats is shifts. equivalent to converting one wetland type to another, and a gain in mangrove area is due 4.4 ISRO’S ‘LANDSLIDE ATLAS’ to the loss of critical functions that the Context: Wayanad, Kerala (which was struck by a mudflats provide. deadly landslide event taking almost 200 lives) was Altered Coastline ranked 13th on Indian Space Research Organisation y Reduced freshwater flows: Often reduced (ISRO) ‘Landslide Atlas of India’ prepared in 2023 freshwater flows to the coast cut off the supply based on exposure to landslides in terms of key socio- of freshwater and sediments to the coastline, economic parameters. creating high salinity and low sediment conditions that mangroves cannot sustain. The Landslide Atlas of India y Climate Change: It is altering our coastline in The Atlas has assessed and ranked 147 landslide prone districts in 17 States and two Union fundamental ways — the sea levels are rising, Territories of India sea-surface temperatures are increasing, and the frequency and severity of coastal storms are y The database covers landslide-vulnerable on the rise. regions of India in the Himalayas and Western Ghats Global Warming: A 2-degree warmer world may increase mangrove growth and productivity. Prepared By: The Landslide Atlas of India is prepared by the National Remote Sensing Centre, y Yet, these ecosystems stand to be adversely in February 2023. impacted by the increase in cyclonic activity, y NRSC has prepared a landslide hazard zonation sea level rise and decline in summer (LHZ) map and Atlas on 1:25000 scale. precipitation. Data Source: Satellite data of high to very high Lack of Accommodation Space: The ability of resolution nature were extracted from IRS-1D mangroves to sustain under a changing climate is PAN+LISS-III, Resourcesat-1, 2 and 2A LISS-IV also linked with the availability of accommodation Mx, Cartosat-1 and 2S and aerial images were space. used in the mapping of landslides. RTSEPFP y Example: The lack of accommodation space Most Landslide Prone District: Rudraprayag in may be a critical barrier for several cities Uttaranchal was ranked first in the Landslide with intensive build-up along mangroves, Atlas www.pw.live August 2024 CURRENT AFFAIRS 13 Geography & Disaster Management About the Underwater Structures Two structures were named after the Mauryan dynasty Rulers ie. The Ashoka seamount and the Chandragupt ridge and the 3rd structure is named as Kalpataru ridge. Discovery: All the three recently named structures were discovered by oceanographers from the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Goa during the Indian Southern Ocean Research Programme y Indian Southern Ocean Research Programme: It is an international survey exploration programme with NCPOR being the nodal agency in operation since 2004 These sea explorations aim at studying the bio-geochemistry, biodiversity, lower atmospheric processes, paleoclimate, hydrodynamics, air-sea interactions among a host of other research areas. Vulnerability: y The inhabitants and households of the Western Ghats are more vulnerable to landslides due to the very high population and household density, especially in Kerala. y Western Ghats in absolute terms however has fewer landslides incidents than in the Himalayan regions. y Steep escarpments of the Western Ghats record occurrences of landslides, but these are primarily controlled by the soil cover on the slopes. 4.5 INDIAN OCEAN’S UNDERWATER GEOGRAPHICAL STRUCTURES BEING NAMED Location: The Structures are located along the Context: Names proposed by India were selected to Southwest Indian Ridge area of the Indian Ocean name three underwater geographical structures in Other India Proposed Structures: The Indian the Indian Ocean by The International Hydrographic Ocean has seven structures at present which has Organization (IHO) and UNESCO’s Intergovernmental been named as proposed by India. Oceanographic Commission (IOC). Structure Discovered Ashok The Indian research team with the help of the Russian Sea vessel Akademik Nikolay Strakhov Seamount: discovered the seamount in 2012. The oval shaped structure spans over an area of 180 sqkm. Kalpataru The Indian research team with the help of the Russian Sea vessel Akademik Nikolay Strakhov RTSEPFP Ridge: discovered the Ridge in 2012. It is an elongated area of 430 sq km. which may have supported marine life, habitat shelter and food for various species. 14 CURRENT AFFAIRS August 2024 www.pw.live Geography & Disaster Management Chandragupt Discovered in 2020 by the Indian ocean research vessel MGS Sagar Ridge It is an elongated and oval shaped body covering a total area of 675 sq km. Raman Ridge: It was discovered in 1951 by a US oil vessel. It was named after Physicist and Nobel Laureate Sir CV Raman in 1992. Panikkar It was discovered in 1992 by India research vessel Sagar Kanya, the Seamount is named after Seamount: NK Panikkar, a renowned oceanographer. Sagar Kanya The structure is named after the research vessel Sagar Kanya in 1991, for completing its Seamount: successful 22nd cruise in 1986 leading to its discovery. DN Wadia The Guyot (underwater volcanic mountain) was named after geologist DN Wadia in 1993 Guyot: when it was discovered in 1992 by Sagar Kanya. International Hydrographic Organization (IHO): A supermoon occurs when the moon is within 90 percent of its nearest approach to Earth. It is an intergovernmental organization established in 1921 that works to ensure all y They are known to be the brightest and biggest the world’s seas, oceans and navigable waters full moons of the year. It appears around 30 are surveyed and charted percent brighter and 14 percent larger than Function: It coordinates the activities of a regular moon. national hydrographic offices and promotes Occurrence: When the full moon and Perigee uniformity in nautical charts and documents. closely coincides with each other, in the language y It issues survey best practices, provides of popular culture, we have a supermoon. guidelines to maximize the use of hydrographic survey data and develops hydrographic capabilities in Member States. Representation: States are represented within the IHO by the national authority responsible for the provision of hydrographic and nautical charting services in each Member State. UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC): Moon Illusion: It happens when the moon is near The body promotes international cooperation the horizon. The moon appears larger due to in marine sciences to improve management of this and the effect is strongest when the moon is the ocean, coasts and marine resources. either rising or setting. Member States: The IOC is a 150 Member States body. About Blue Moon The IOC Secretariat: It is located in Paris, France Origin: The first Blue Moon was recorded from 1528 onwards and is believed that the name Blue Focus Areas: The IOC work together by Moon originated from an old phrase meaning coordinating programmes in capacity ‘betrayer moon’. However Blue Moon is not Blue in development, ocean observations and services, colour ocean science, tsunami warning and ocean literacy. Types: There are two types of Blue Moon, y The second full moon of a month with two 4.6 SUPERMOON BLUE MOON full moons came to be known as a ‘Blue Moon’ Context: The year 2024 is expected to witness four since 1940. supermoons in a row with the first one slated to occur y Seasonal Blue Moon: A third full moon in a on August 19, Monday at about 12:00 AM IST. season that has four full moons is known as a seasonal blue moon. About Supermoons RTSEPFP This is the type of Blue Moon that will be Coined By: The term supermoon was coined by visible on August 19. astronomer Richard Nolle in 1979. www.pw.live August 2024 CURRENT AFFAIRS 15 Geography & Disaster Management SHORT NEWS Krishi-DSS Recently, the Minister of State for Agriculture launched the Krishi-Decision Support System (Krishi-DSS). About Krishi-Decision Support System: It is a satellite-based system. Objective: To assist farmers in improving crop management and productivity. Technological Background y Developed using technologies similar to the government’s Gati Shakti initiative. y Built with data from RISAT-1A and VEDAS, provided by the Department of Space. Key Features of Krishi-DSS y Real-Time Information: Offers real-time data on crop conditions, weather patterns, water resources, and soil health. y Geospatial Platform: Utilizes satellite imagery to monitor and predict crop health and potential risks. y Disaster Warnings: Provides early alerts for disasters such as pest attacks and extreme weather events. y Crop Monitoring and Diversification: Supports crop mapping, monitoring, and encourages crop rotation and diversification across different regions. Arogya Maitri Recently, the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully conducted trials of airdropping its Arogya Disaster Maitri Disaster Management Cube in Agra. Management About Arogya Maitri Disaster Management Cube Cube This cube is a part of the broader initiative named “Project BHISHM” – Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita and Maitri, It is tailored to treat up to 200 casualties, emphasizing rapid response and comprehensive care. Features: The Aid Cube is equipped with several innovative tools designed to enhance disaster response and medical support during emergencies. RTSEPFP 16 CURRENT AFFAIRS August 2024 www.pw.live Polity & Governance 5 Polity & Governance 5.1 SUB-CLASSIFICATION OF SC AND something that does not exist in actuality but is “treated as real and existing for the purpose of law”. ST CATEGORIES y A Scheduled Caste is not something that existed Context: Recently, the Supreme Court upheld that before the Constitution came into force, and is states have the authority to subdivide reserved category groups based on their varying levels of recognised so that benefits can be provided to backwardness to extend reservation benefits. communities in the list. y This legal fiction cannot be “stretched” to More on News claim that there are no “internal differences” The apex court overturned a 2004 ruling in the among SCs. EV Chinnaiah vs State of Andhra Pradesh case, which had held that such sub-classification was not Substantive Equality permissible since the Scheduled Castes (SC)/ Substantive Equality recognises that different Scheduled Tribes (ST) constituted “homogenous” individuals or groups may need different classes. levels of support and intervention to achieve real equality in outcomes. It aims to address historical and systemic disadvantages by considering the unique backgrounds and specific needs of marginalised or disadvantaged groups y For example, in the context of reservations and affirmative action, it might mean creating sub- categories within SC/ST quotas to ensure that benefits reach the most disadvantaged segments within these communities. On Sub-Classification of the Presidential List: The majority opinion held that “the State in exercise of its power under Articles 15 and 16 is free to identify the different degrees of social backwardness and provide special provisions (such as reservation) to achieve the specific degree of harm identified”. Crucial Insights on the Supreme Court Judgement In a 6:1 ruling, the Supreme Court Bench holds that sub-categorisation within a class is a constitutional RTSEPFP On the Yardstick for Sub-Classification: The requirement to secure substantive equality. majority opinion drew stringent redlines for states On Legal Fiction: As per the Supreme Court, the on how to work out the sub-quotas. States will have Presidential list of SCs is a “legal fiction” — to demonstrate a need for wider protections, www.pw.live August 2024 CURRENT AFFAIRS 17 Polity & Governance bring empirical evidence, and have a already followed for Other Backward Classes “reasonable” rationale for classifying sub-groups. (OBCs) as highlighted in Indra Sawhney Case. This reasoning can be further tested in court. y This concept places an income ceiling on On Applicability of ‘Creamy Layer’ Principle: reservation eligibility, ensuring that the Only the opinion of Justice Gavai bats for introducing beneficiaries are those in a community that the ‘creamy layer’ exception for SCs (and STs) that is need quotas the most. Issues to be Decided Decisions Held Whether sub- Yes, Scheduled Castes can be further classified if: classification is There is a rational principle for differentiation Permissible? If the rational principle has a nexus with the purpose of sub-classification “Sub-classification is one of the means to achieve substantive equality”. Is Scheduled Caste No, Scheduled Castes are not a homogenous integrated class because empirical Homogenous? evidence indicates that there is inequality even within the Scheduled Castes. Whether Article 341 No, because the inclusion in the Presidential list does not automatically lead to creates a the formation of a uniform and internally homogenous class which cannot be homogenous class further classified. by deeming Fiction? Article 341 creates a legal fiction for the limited purpose of identification of Scheduled Castes by distinguishing them from other groups. Are States While the State may embark on an exercise of sub-classification, it must do so on competent to create the basis of quantifiable and demonstrable data bearing on levels of sub-classifications backwardness and representation in the services of the State. within Reserved The model of sub-classification will be unconstitutional if it excludes some Categories? Scheduled Castes from the benefit. About Sub-Classification of Scheduled y Haryana: In 2020, it split reservations in Castes (SC)/Scheduled Tribes (ST) admissions through legislation by creating a It is the process of creating sub-groups within the new group of SCs called “Deprived Scheduled Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes to ensure a Castes”. more equitable distribution of reservation Constitutional Provisions to Support Weaker benefits, targeting the most backward or Sections: marginalised within these communities. Article 15(4): The special provisions for their Power Lies in: Article 341(1) of the Constitution advancement. gives the President the power to “specify the castes, races or tribes” in a state, which shall “for Article 16(4A): Speaks of reservation in the the purposes of this Constitution be deemed to be services under the State in favour of SCs/STs. Scheduled Castes in relation to that State or Union Article 17: Abolishes Untouchability. territory, as the case may be”. Article 46: Requires the State to promote with y Following such a notification, Article 341(2) special care the educational and economic states that only Parliament can include or interests of the weaker sections of the people, exclude “any caste, race or tribe” from the and, in particular, of the SCs and STs, and to list of SCs. protect them from social injustice and all forms of exploitation. The Sub-Categorisation Policy Being Practised: Article 330 and Article 332: Provide for y Tamil Nadu: In 2009, it made a special reservation of seats in favour of the SCs and STs reservation provision for employment and in the House of the People and in the legislative education for Arunthathiyars within the 18 assemblies of the States. per cent reservation for SCs in the state. Article 338: Provides for a National Commission y Bihar: In 2007, it created a group called for the Scheduled Castes (NCSC) and NCST. ‘Mahadalits’ (most backward Dalits) which Part IX relating to the Panchayats and Part IXA of excluded the Chamar, Dhobi, Paswan and RTSEPFP the Constitution relating to the Municipalities, Dushad castes among 22 Scheduled Castes. reservation for SCs and STs in local bodies has Later in 2015, all castes were declared been envisaged and provided. Mahadalit except Paswans. 18 CURRENT AFFAIRS August 2024 www.pw.live Polity & Governance 5.2 CENSUS DELAY AND CONCERNING Giving Grants and Resource Allocation: Census data helps in the equitable distribution of resources IMPACTS and services based on population size and Context: Recently, the Budget 2024-25 recently demographic basis and helps in determining the allocated ₹1,309.46 crore for the Census, a significant allocation of funds for public services like reduction from 2021-22 when ₹3,768 crore was schools, hospitals, roads, and other essential allocated for the decadal exercise, thereby indicating facilities. the considerable delay. y The Finance Commission provides grants to The 2021 Census, initially scheduled to begin in the states on the basis of population figures 2020, is still on hold. available from the Census data. y The Census data helps in understanding social dynamics, identifying disparities, and developing strategies to address social and economic issues. y The census data is also significant for business houses and industries for strengthening and planning their business for penetration into more uncovered areas. Monitor Changes: Regular conduct of censuses provide a comprehensive and updated data of population. They help to monitor changes in Significance of Conducting Census population growth, fertility rates, mortality Better Governance: Census data provides rates, migration trends, and other demographic policymakers and decision-makers with accurate indicators over time. and reliable information enabling them to Environmental Aspect: The censuses and surveys formulate effective policies, allocate resources, are being made available for information and can and plan for various sectors such as education, help to analyse the environment statistics including healthcare, infrastructure, and social welfare. agriculture, air and climate, energy, environment expenditure, fisheries, water, etc. Concerns with Delayed Census Delayed Delimitation: The postponement of the census delays the delimitation process, which is crucial for redrawing Lok Sabha constituencies based on the latest population data. y The current composition of Lok Sabha is based on the 1971 Census, and further delay continues the use of outdated data, affecting fair representation. Imbalanced Representation: States with faster population growth may continue to be underrepresented, while states with slower growth may retain disproportionate representation. y Northern states like Uttar Pradesh may gain more seats at the expense of southern states, which have slower population growth rates. Increased Socio-Political Tensions: Potential increase in regional disparities and tensions, particularly between northern and southern states, Demarcation and Electoral Representation: regarding resource allocation and political power. Census data plays an important role in determining y Southern RTSEPFP states express concerns over the number of seats and boundaries for electoral losing political influence due to the constituencies and ensures fair representation and reapportionment based on outdated population proportional allocation of political power based on data. population size and distribution. www.pw.live August 2024 CURRENT AFFAIRS 19 Polity & Governance Obsolete Policy Frameworks: Policies based on About Waqf outdated data may not address current demographic A Waqf is a personal property given by Muslims for a realities, leading to inefficiencies. specific purpose — religious, charitable, or for private y Health and education policies might fail to purposes. cater to the actual needs of the population, Historical Background: The concept of Waqf impacting service delivery and planning. (endowment) was introduced in India with the Policy and Planning Challenges: Accurate advent of Muslim rule. population data is essential for effective policy y During the Mughal and Sultanate periods, formulation and implementation of development Waqf management was centralised and programs. theocratic in nature. y Delayed census data affects the distribution of y The earliest recorded Waqf in India dates back funds and resources, impacting programs like to the Delhi Sultanate, when Sultan the National Food Security Act, which relies on Muizuddin Sam Ghaor dedicated two villages up-to-date population figures. to the Jama Masjid of Multan and entrusted its y The Union government has to allocate annual administration to Shaikhul Islam. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment y Waqf was also closely linked to conversion Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) funds to each and cultural appropriation in pre-British state based on the number of households and India. labourers. This data is arrived at from the Formation: A Waqf can be formed through a deed census. However, in the absence of such a or instrument or orally, or a property can be number, the Union government allocates funds deemed to be Waqf if it has been used for religious based on each state government’s expenditure or charitable purposes for a long period of and unspent funds from the previous financial time. year. y Once a property is declared as Waqf, its character changes forever, and cannot be 5.3 WAQF (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2024 reversed. Context: The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 has been referred to a Joint Committee of Parliament. The Bill seeks to amend the 1995 Waqf Act, proposing sweeping changes to how Waqfs are governed and regulated. Ownership: While the beneficiaries of the property can be different, the ownership of the property is implied to be with God. Key Insights on the Proposed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 Change of Name: The Bill seeks to change the name of the parent Act from the Waqf Act, 1995, to the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995. Alteration of the Definition of ‘Waqf’: Under the Bill, only lawful property owners who have practised Islam for at least five years are authorised to create ‘waqf’ properties through the execution of formal deeds. y This revision abolishes the ‘waqf by use’

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