TNPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS 17.09.2024

PUTIN VISITS MONGOLIA AFTER BRUSHING ASIDE ICC WARRANT

The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant for Vladimir Putin’s arrest about 18 months ago for alleged war crimes related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
This visit marks Putin’s first trip to a member country of the ICC since the warrant was issued.
Mongolia’s Position:
Mongolia, a member of the ICC, has not shown any indication that it will arrest Putin.
Ukraine and the European Union have called on Mongolia to execute the warrant, but there has been no compliance.
Diplomatic Reception:
Putin was welcomed in Ulaanbaatar with an honor guard dressed in traditional uniforms reminiscent of Genghis Khan’s era.
A few protesters were detained by police for attempting to display a Ukrainian flag and anti-Putin banners.
Bilateral Agreements: The two governments signed agreements for a feasibility study and design upgrade of a power plant in Ulaanbaatar.
They also agreed to ensure a continuous supply of aviation fuel to Mongolia.
Plans to develop the rail system between Russia and Mongolia were outlined.
The ICC’s ability to execute warrants against high-profile figures like Putin remains limited without the cooperation of member states.

2. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

A DISCOURSE ON AI GOVERNANCE THAT INDIA MUST SHAPE

The upcoming Summit of the Future (September 22-23, 2024) is poised to be a pivotal event for global diplomacy and the international normbuilding process in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
This summit, organized under the auspices of the United Nations, aims to advance the Global Digital Compact (GDC), which seeks to address the digital divide, promote the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and create a secure and inclusive digital environment.
Key Objectives of the Summit: Global Digital Compact (GDC):
Digital Divide: Addressing disparities in digital access and ensuring equitable distribution of digital resources.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Leveraging digital technologies to advance the SDGs.
Inclusive Digital Environment: Creating a secure and inclusive digital space that respects fundamental rights and values.
AI Governance: Strengthening international governance of emerging technologies, including AI, to ensure alignment with ethical standards and human rights.

3. SECURITY ISSUES

NINE MAIOISTS KILLED IN DANTEWADA ENCOUNTER

Naxalism, or the Maoist insurgency, began in the late 1960s in the village of Naxalbari in West Bengal.
It is a far-left radical communist movement that aims to overthrow the government through armed struggle.
The movement has its roots in the socio-economic disparities and exploitation of marginalized communities, particularly tribal populations.
Government Measures:
Security Operations: The government has deployed various security forces, including state police, CRPF, and specialized units like the District Reserve Guards (DRG), to combat Naxalism.
Development Initiatives: Efforts are being made to address the root causes of Naxalism through development programs aimed at improving infrastructure, education, and healthcare in affected regions.
Surrender and Rehabilitation Policies: The government has introduced policies to encourage Naxalites to surrender and reintegrate into society.
Challenges:
Geographical Terrain: The dense forests and hilly terrain of regions like Bastar make it difficult for security forces to conduct operations.
Local Support: Maoists often enjoy support from local populations due to grievances against the state, making it challenging to isolate and eliminate insurgents.
Human Rights Concerns: There have been allegations of human rights violations by security forces, which complicate the counterinsurgency efforts.

4. POLITY

BENGAL BILL MOOTS CAPITAL PUNISHMENT FOR RAPISTS

The passage of the Aparajita Women and Child (West Bengal Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill, 2024 by the West Bengal Assembly is a significant legislative development aimed at addressing and curbing sexual violence against women and children.
Key Provisions of the Bill:
Increased Punishment: Rape and Gang Rape: The Bill proposes harsher penalties for rape and gang rape.
Rape Resulting in Death or Vegetative State: Enhanced punishment for cases where the victim dies or is left in a vegetative state.
Rape by Authority Figures: Stricter penalties for rape committed by police officers, public servants, or managers of homes.
Repeat Offenders: Increased punishment for repeat offenders.
Amendments to Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS): The Bill seeks to amend relevant sections of the BNS to incorporate these enhanced punishments.
Speedy Investigation: The Bill mandates that investigations into rape cases be concluded within 21 days of the initial report. This aims to expedite the judicial process and ensure timely justice.
Focus on Sexual Assault Cases: The Bill specifically targets cases of sexual assault under the Bharatiya Nyaya Samhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The Bill now awaits the Governor’s assent, which is the final procedural step before it can be implemented.

5. ECONOMY

WORLD BANK HIKES INDIA’S ECONOMIC GROWTH PROJECTION TO 7% FOR FY 2024-25

Supporting Factors: Public Infrastructure Investment: Significant investments in public infrastructure have been a major growth driver.
Household Investments: There has been an upswing in household investments, particularly in real estate.
Manufacturing Sector: The manufacturing sector grew by 9.9%, contributing significantly to overall growth.
Services Sector: Resilient services activity has compensated for underperformance in agriculture.
Employment Trends:
Urban Unemployment: Urban unemployment has gradually improved since the pandemic, especially for female workers. Female urban unemployment fell to 8.5% in early FY24/25.
Youth Unemployment: Urban youth unemployment remains elevated at 17%.
Inflation and Poverty: Declining Inflation: The report notes a declining inflation rate, which is expected to help reduce extreme poverty in India.
Trade Opportunities: Diversification of Exports: India can boost its growth by diversifying its export basket. In addition to IT, business services, and pharmaceuticals, India has potential in textiles, apparel, footwear, electronics, and green technology products.
Global Trade Landscape: The reconfiguration of global value chains postpandemic has created new opportunities for India

ONE LINER

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