TNPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 05.08.2024

1. STATES

MEKEDATU PROJECT WILL ENSURE CAUVERY WATER FOR T.N EVEN IN DISTRESS YEARS

• The Mekedatu balancing reservoir project proposed by Karnataka involves constructing a reservoir across the Cauvery River. This project has significant implications for interstate water sharing, particularly between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
• The issue of Cauvery water sharing has been a long-standing and contentious matter, often requiring intervention by the Supreme Court and various water tribunals.
• Key Issues: Water Sharing Agreements: Cauvery Water Dispute: The Cauvery water dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu has been one of the most protracted interstate water conflicts in India. The Supreme Court’s 2018 verdict mandated Karnataka to release 177.25 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) of water to Tamil Nadu annually.
• Distress Year Clause: The Supreme Court’s order applies to normal years, but the release of water during years of deficient rainfall remains a contentious issue.
• Mekedatu Project: Project Proposal: Karnataka proposes to construct a reservoir at Mekedatu to store 65 TMC of water. The project aims to meet Bengaluru’s drinking water needs and manage water release to Tamil Nadu during distress years.
• Political Opposition: Tamil Nadu opposes the project, citing potential adverse impacts on its water supply. Karnataka argues that the project will benefit both states by ensuring water availability during dry periods.
• Regulatory and Legal Framework: Tribunals and Courts: The Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) and the Supreme Court have played crucial roles in adjudicating the water-sharing disputes. The CWDT’s final award in 2007 and the Supreme Court’s 2018 verdict are key legal documents governing water sharing.
• Central Government’s Role: The Central Government’s approval is required for interstate water projects. Karnataka has criticized the Centre for delaying permission for the Mekedatu project.

2. INTERNATIONAL

QUAD CALLS FOR END TO VIOLENCE IN UKRAINE, GAZA AND MYANMAR

• Expansion of IPMDA: Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA): Quad countries (Australia, India, Japan, U.S.) plan to expand IPMDA into the Indian Ocean Region.
• Aimed at ensuring safety and security of critical sea lanes. Enhances regional maritime domain awareness through satellite data, training, and capacity building.
• Statements and Actions: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar:
• Described Quad as a stabilizing factor and action-oriented platform. Emphasized practical outcomes, including Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) coordination.
• Highlighted IPMDA’s role in linking information fusion centres for real-time maritime challenge coordination.
• Joint Statement: Called for immediate cessation of violence in Ukraine, Gaza, and Myanmar.
• Condemned October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israeli targets. Urged increased humanitarian assistance to Gaza and compliance with international law.
• Expressed concern over the war in Ukraine, emphasizing sovereignty and territorial integrity.
• Addressed violence in Myanmar, calling for cessation of violence and release of detainees.
• Concerns Over China: Maritime Activities: Emphasized the importance of freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea. ○ ○ Stressed unimpeded commerce consistent with international law.
• Global Agenda: Middle East Peace and Stability: Quad expressed interest in ensuring peace and stability in the Middle East.
• Supported UNSC Resolution S/RES/2735 (2024) and called for the release of hostages and immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
• Future Engagements: India-Ukraine Relations: Indicated potential for increased contacts between India and Ukraine.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to visit Ukraine next month

3. POLITY

SUPREME COURT BEGINS WEEK – LONG LOK ADALAT DRIVE

• Lok Adalats are a form of alternative dispute resolution mechanism in India, aimed at amicably settling disputes outside the formal court system.
• The Lok Adalats began their sessions at 2 p.m. each day, after the judges completed their regular court proceedings
• The primary objective is to amicably settle long-pending disputes.
• The initiative encourages citizens with pending cases in the Supreme Court to participate and resolve their disputes speedily and amicably. Composition of Benches:
• The first seven Benches of the Supreme Court were transformed into Lok Adalats.
• Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud headed a five-member Bench.
• Importance of Lok Adalats: Speedy Justice: Lok Adalats provide a platform for the quick resolution of disputes, reducing the burden on the formal judicial system.
• Cost-Effective: They are a cost-effective method of dispute resolution as they do not involve court fees.
• Amicable Settlement: Lok Adalats focus on mutual consent and amicable settlements, which can lead to more satisfactory outcomes for all parties involved.
• Legal Recognition: The awards (decisions) of Lok Adalats are legally binding and enforceable, similar to a court decree

4. NATIONAL

NCERT PROPOSES 10 BAGLESS DAYS A YEAR FOR STUDENTS FROM CLASSES 6 TO 8

• Objective: Provide respite to students from Classes 6 to 8 by implementing 10 ‘bagless days’ in schools across States.
• Guidelines: Teachers to plan activities for students to learn from local vocational experts like carpenters, gardeners, potters, and artists. ○ Aligns with the National Education Policy 2020.
• Time Allocation: Minimum 10 days or 60 hours of school time to be allocated for this programme.
• Purpose: Prepare students for the ‘world of work’ with a work-centred pedagogy.
• Provide exposure to real-world transactions and build observation[1]based learning.
• Develop understanding of community connectedness and interdependence.
• Promote dignity of labour through hands-on activities and local vocations.
• Curriculum Themes: Science, Environment, and Technology: Exposure to scientific and environmental aspects.
• Public Office, Local Industry, and Business: Understanding of public offices and local industries.
• Art, Culture, and History: Engagement with art, culture, and historical contexts.

5. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

INDIA STANDS AT THE FOREFRONT OF DIGITAL REVOLUTION – RBI REPORT

• India is leveraging digital public infrastructure, a vibrant FinTech ecosystem, and a conducive policy environment.
• Emerged as the fastest-growing digital economy in the world. Opportunities Unlocked by Digital Technologies:
• Financial Inclusion: Enhanced access to financial services for underserved populations.
• Fiscal Transfers: Improved efficiency and targeting of direct benefit transfers.
• Cross-Border Trade and Remittances: Streamlined processes and reduced costs.
• Regulatory Framework: Positive role in boosting consumer confidence in digital financial products.
• Enhanced operating and technical efficiencies of financial institutions.
• Challenges Highlighted: Cybersecurity: Risks associated with digital transactions.
• Data Privacy: Protection of personal and financial data.
• Vendor and Third-Party Risks: Managing risks from external service providers.
• Customer Protection: Ensuring safety and security for consumers.
• Human Resources: Need for up-skilling and re-skilling to handle new technologies.
• Complex Financial Products: Understanding and managing sophisticated digital financial products and business models

ONE LINER

1. The number of startups in India has crossed 1.4 lakh – Maharashtra tops with 25,044 startups
2. PM’s package for Employment and Skilling scheme provide internship program for 1 crore youths announced in budget 2024 – 2025