18 Nov | UPSC Current Affairs: Bodoland Mahotsav, PCI, CAG Report, UNICORN, and More

UPSC GS 1

Bodoland Mahotsav

• News:  The Prime Minister recently inaugurated the first Bodoland Mahotsav in New Delhi, marking a significant cultural event celebrating the Bodo community and its contributions.
• Purpose and Significance:
  • The Bodoland Mahotsav is a major event focused on language, literature, and culture, with the goal of promoting peace and building a vibrant Bodo society. 
  • It highlights the rich cultural heritage, language, and education of the Bodo community, alongside other communities from the Bodoland Territorial Region.
• Theme:
  • The theme of the Mahotsav is “Peace and Harmony for Prosperous Bharat,” emphasizing the importance of unity, cultural preservation, and societal progress.

• Objectives:
  • Cultural Heritage: The Mahotsav aims to showcase the cultural and linguistic diversity of the Bodo people.
  • Ecological and Touristic Potential: The event seeks to highlight the ecological biodiversity and tourism potential of the Bodoland region.
  • Recovery and Resilience: The festival also celebrates the progress made since the signing of the Bodo Peace Accord in 2020, marking a period of recovery and resilience for the region.
• Key Facts about the Bodo Tribe:
  • Historical Background: The Bodo tribe is one of the earliest known ethnic groups to inhabit Assam (formerly known as Pragjyotishpur and Kamrupa). They are distinguished by their unique culture and linguistic traits, belonging to the Mongoloid stock of the Indo-Mongoloids or Indo-Tibetans.
  • Linguistic Group: The Bodo people are part of a larger linguistic group that speaks Tibeto-Burman languages, primarily found in North and East Bengal, Assam, and Burma.
  • Regional Names: The Bodos are known by different names depending on the region:
  • In the Brahmaputra Valley, they are called the Bodos or Boros.
  • In Lower Assam, West Bengal, and Nepal, they are referred to as Meches.

Read also: India-Nigeria Relations: Key Insights for UPSC Exam

UPSC GS 2

Jeevan Pramaan Campaign (Digital Life Certificates)

• News:  The third annual DLC Campaign began recently, and will continue until November 30.
• Launch and Purpose: Introduced in 2014, Jeevan Pramaan aims to streamline the submission of life certificates for pensioners.
• Digital Life Certificates (DLCs): Pensioners can generate DLCs online, removing the need to visit pension-disbursing offices like banks or post offices in person.
• Direct Submission to Authorities: The DLCs are directly shared with the concerned authorities, ensuring a seamless process.
• Annual Requirement: Pensioners from sectors such as government services, Defence, Railways, PSUs, and educational institutions must submit life certificates every November to continue receiving pensions.
• Submission Options: Pensioners can opt to generate DLCs via Jeevan Pramaan or submit physical life certificates at banks or post offices, based on their preference.

• DLC Generation Process:
  • Prerequisites: Pensioners need an Aadhaar number linked to a mobile number and must register their Aadhaar with their pension-disbursing authority.
  • Self-Service or Assisted Service: DLCs can be generated independently using the Jeevan Pramaan app or website with a biometric device, or at designated camps with assistance.
  • Biometric Authentication: The process requires biometric verification, either through fingerprint or face recognition.
• Benefits of the Initiative:
• • Digital Empowerment: Jeevan Pramaan represents a transformative step in digitally empowering pensioners.
  • Convenience for Pensioners: It reduces the hassle of visiting pension offices, especially during November, by providing an online option.
  • Enhanced Accessibility: Features like face authentication and the widespread reach of the campaign have further simplified the process, benefiting a larger number of pensioners.

Press Council of India (PCI)

• News:   The Press Council of India (PCI) recently issued an advisory to print media regarding the issue of ‘paid news.’
• About Press Council of India (PCI):
• Establishment:
  • Set up in 1966 based on the recommendations of the First Press Commission, with Justice J.R. Mudholkar as its first Chairman.
  • Currently functions under the provisions of the Press Council Act, 1978.
• Nature of the Body:
  • It is a statutory, quasi-judicial body tasked with safeguarding press freedom in India and regulating its conduct.
• Composition:
  • Structure: Includes a Chairman and 28 members.
  • Selection of Chairman: The Chairman is chosen by a committee comprising the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, and a representative from among the Council members. Traditionally, the Chairman has been a retired Supreme Court judge.
  • Tenure: The term for both the Chairman and members is three years.
• Functions of PCI:
  • Primary Function: Monitors press practices and upholds the freedom of the press.
  • Additional Functions:
  • Assists newspapers in maintaining their independence.
  • Develops a code of conduct for journalists and publications, ensuring adherence to high professional standards.
  • Reviews developments that could hinder the free flow of news of public interest.
  • Examines cases referred by the Central Government regarding foreign assistance received by newspapers or news agencies in India.
  • Addresses complaints against the press for ethical violations.

• National Press Day: 
• • National Press Day, observed on November 16, marks the day the Press Council of India (PCI) began its operations in 1966.
  • Theme 2024: “Changing Nature of the Press” 
  • It is commemorated through various activities, including the National Awards for Excellence in Journalism and the release of a Souvenir.
  • National Award for Excellence in Journalism to honor outstanding contributions in print media. 
  •  These awards, presented annually on National Press Day, recognize exceptional journalists across various fields, with the prestigious Raja Ram Mohan Roy Award serving as the highest honor.

Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) Report

• News: A compendium of the performance audit reports on implementation of the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act was released recently by the CAG. 
• Insights from the CAG Report:
• Resource-Expenditure Gap:
• • Urban local bodies (ULBs) in 18 states face a significant 42% gap between their resources and expenditures.
  • Only 29% of their spending is allocated to programmatic and developmental activities.

• Incomplete Implementation of the 74th Constitutional Amendment:
• • Despite being enacted in 1993 to empower ULBs, the 74th Amendment has not been fully implemented even after 31 years.
  • While an average of 17 out of 18 designated functions have been devolved, critical functions such as urban planning and fire services remain the least devolved.
• Revenue Challenges:
  • On average, ULBs generate only 32% of their revenue independently, relying on Union and state governments for the remaining funds.
  • Inefficiencies in revenue collection are evident, with only 56% of the property tax demand being realized.
• Staff Shortages:
  • ULBs face an average 37% vacancy in sanctioned staff positions.
  • Limited or no authority over recruitment processes in 16 states exacerbates workforce shortages.
• Limited Autonomy:
  • Only four functions devolved to ULBs are carried out with full autonomy.
  • The lack of autonomy undermines effective functioning, particularly in critical areas.
• Devolution Status Across States:
  • Nine states, including Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Odisha, Punjab, and Tripura, have devolved all 18 functions under the 74th Amendment.
  • However, compliance with the “in-spirit” implementation of the law remains weak.
• Developmental Implications:
  • With 50% of India’s population expected to reside in cities by 2050, the lack of robust and autonomous ULBs poses risks to urban governance and citizen quality of life.

UPSC GS 3

Unified Complex Radio Antenna (UNICORN) 

• News:   A Memorandum of Implementation has been signed between India and Japan for co-development of UNICORN mast for fitment onboard Ships of Indian Navy.
• Definition:
• • UNICORN is a cutting-edge integrated antenna system designed to enhance the stealth capabilities of naval ships. 
  • This advanced technology improves the communication systems and stealth characteristics of naval platforms.

• Development and Design: UNICORN was developed by three Japanese companies:
  • NEC Corporation
  • Sampa Kogyo K.K.
  • The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.
  • These antennas are currently installed on the Mogami-class frigates of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.
• Key Features:
  • Integrated System: Unlike traditional masts, UNICORN consolidates multiple antennas, which are typically attached to various points on a mast, into a single radar dome, known as a radome.
  • Stealth Enhancement: This innovation significantly reduces the radar cross-section of naval platforms, improving their stealth characteristics and enabling them to operate with lower electronic signatures.
  • Improved Detection and Maintenance: The strategic placement of the antennas optimizes the detection distance of radio waves from external sources, while also simplifying the installation and maintenance processes.
  • Impact: The UNICORN system plays a crucial role in enhancing the stealth and operational efficiency of naval vessels, aligning with India’s efforts to modernize its defense technology and strengthen strategic partnerships.
• Importance: 
• • It is India’s first military technology transfer agreement with Japan.
  • This pact comes nine years after New Delhi and Tokyo agreed to facilitate the “transfer of defense equipment and technology” to strengthen their strategic relationship. 
  • A key focus of this agreement is the stealth mast, which the Indian Navy has been particularly interested in, along with other advanced Japanese military technologies such as the US-2 amphibian aircraft.

Panna Tiger Reserve (PTR)

• News: Mass vaccination of stray dogs in and around Panna Tiger Reserve (PTR) has begun amid the threat of the spread of canine distemper virus (CDV) infection in the wild animals of the PTR.
• Location:
• • Situated in the Vindhyan mountain range in northern Madhya Pradesh, PTR  is a vital tiger habitat.
  • Spanning an area of 542 sq. km., it is the sole Tiger Reserve in the Bundelkhand region.
  • Designated as a Project Tiger Reserve by the Indian government in 1994.
• Landscape:
  • Features a distinctive ‘Table Top’ topography with extensive plateaus and gorges.
  • The Ken River flows through the reserve from south to north.
  • The area is home to two-thousand-year-old rock paintings.

• Flora:
  • Predominantly dry deciduous forests interspersed with grasslands.
  • Teak forests surround the northern region, while the eastern side is characterized by mixed Teak-Kardhai forests.
  • Represents the northernmost natural distribution of teak (Tectona grandis).
  • Acacia catechu dominates the dry, steep plateau slopes.
• Fauna:
  • Hosts significant populations of Tigers, Sloth Bears, Leopards, and Striped Hyenas.
  • Other carnivores include Jackals, Wolves, Wild Dogs, Jungle Cats, and Rusty Spotted Cats.
  • The Vindhya hill ranges, running NE-SW, facilitate connectivity between the eastern and western populations of wildlife.
• Key Facts about Canine Distemper Virus:
• Definition:
  • Canine Distemper is a highly contagious and severe disease caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV).
  • It primarily affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems of dogs.
  • Dogs most at risk include unvaccinated ones and puppies under four months old.
• Affected Species:
  • In addition to dogs, CDV infects ferrets and various other mammals, particularly carnivores.
• Transmission:
  • Spread primarily through aerosol droplets from infected animals.
  • Some infected dogs can shed the virus for several months.
• Symptoms:
  • Common signs include coughing, fever, and discharge from the eyes or nose.
• Treatment and Prevention:
  • No approved antiviral treatments or cures exist for CDV.
  • Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure.

General Provident Fund (GPF)

• News: An order of the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) granting pension rights under the General Provident Fund scheme to retired Kendriya Vidyalaya teachers was upheld by Madras high recently. 
• Introduction:
  • Introduced in 1960, the GPF is a savings scheme designed exclusively for government employees in India.
  • It aims to provide a reliable source of income to employees post-retirement.
• Contributions:
  • Employees contribute a fixed percentage of their salary to the GPF.
  • Unlike the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), GPF contributions are made solely by the employee.
  • The total accumulated amount, including interest, is disbursed to the employee upon retirement.
• Eligibility:
  • All temporary government employees who have served continuously for one year.
  • All permanent government employees.
  • Re-employed pensioners, except those eligible for contributory provident funds.
• Contribution Details:
  • Mandatory Participation: Government employees must contribute a specified portion of their salary to the GPF.
  • Contribution Limits: Employees can contribute a minimum of 6% and up to 100% of their salary. Subscribers determine their contribution amount.
  • Interest Accumulation: Contributions accrue interest at a government-determined rate, which is periodically updated.
• Withdrawal Rules:
  • Eligibility for Withdrawal: Savings can be withdrawn upon retirement or resignation. Employees transferring to another government department can either withdraw their balance or transfer it to the new employer.
  • Advance Withdrawals: Partial withdrawals are allowed for specific purposes such as marriage, education, or medical emergencies.
  • Loans Against GPF: Employees can avail themselves of loans against their GPF balance under certain conditions.
  • Nominee Benefits: In the event of the employee’s death, the GPF balance is paid to the designated nominee.
• Additional Features:
• • Administration: The GPF scheme is managed by the Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions.
  • Key Benefits: Offers government employees tax savings, low-risk investment options, and guaranteed returns.
  • Interest Rates: Interest rates are revised periodically as per government notifications.

See more: Empowering Urban Local Bodies in India | UPSC

Red-Headed Vulture

• News:  The critically endangered Red-Headed Vulture has been sighted in Kasaragod, marking a significant addition to the region’s avian biodiversity. 
• General Description:
  • The Red-Headed Vulture is one of the nine vulture species found in India. 
  • It is also commonly known as the Asian King Vulture or Pondicherry Vulture.
• Appearance:
  • This vulture is medium-sized with dark plumage and a distinct reddish, bare head. It also has loose flaps of skin around the neck. 
  • Weighing around 5 kg and measuring over 80 cm in length, it is a primarily solitary bird, usually seen alone or with its mate. 
  • The Red-Headed Vulture features a unique white patch on its abdomen, which becomes more visible during flight.

• Distribution:
  • The Red-Headed Vulture is found in various regions across Central India, as well as in Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and parts of Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
• Breeding:
  • Breeding for the Red-Headed Vulture typically takes place between November and January.
• Conservation Status:
• • IUCN Red List: The Red-Headed Vulture is classified as Critically Endangered, indicating its severe risk of extinction.
  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: It is listed under Schedule I of the act, which provides it with the highest level of legal protection.

Leucism

• News: Tamil Nadu Forest Department staff has rescued a rare peacock with white feathers, caused by leucism, in Coimbatore, recently. 
• Definition:
  • Leucism is an abnormal genetic condition that results in reduced pigmentation in various animals, including birds, mammals, and reptiles. 
  • It is characterized by pale colors or patches of reduced pigmentation in the affected species.

• Cause:
  • This condition is caused by a genetic mutation that prevents melanin and other pigments from being properly deposited in the feathers, hair, or skin of the animal.
• Effect on Birds:
• • In birds, leucism specifically affects their feathers, resulting in abnormal coloration. 
  • Affected birds do not display their typical, vibrant plumage colors.
  •  Instead, they may exhibit white patches in areas where color is typically present, or their overall plumage may appear pale or bleached.
• Implications:
  • Leucism is a rare condition, and animals displaying these traits, like the white-feathered peacock, stand out due to their unusual appearance. 
  • However, it does not typically cause any physical health problems beyond the visible changes in coloration.

Facts for Prelims

Dominica Award of Honour

• News:   The Commonwealth of Dominica is set to confer its highest national award, the Dominica Award of Honour, on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 
• More on News:  The award will be conferred during the upcoming second India-CARICOM (Caribbean Community) Summit, scheduled to take place in Georgetown, Guyana, from November 19 to 21, 2024. 
• About the Dominica Award of Honour:
• Purpose:
  • The award is the highest civilian honour in Dominica.
  • It is bestowed on individuals who have provided meritorious service towards the development of the Commonwealth of Dominica.
• Eligibility:
  • The honour is conferred by the President of the State of Dominica.
  • Each President of Dominica is also a recipient of this award.
• Notable Recipients:
  • Fidel Castro, the Cuban leader and revolutionary, is among the previous recipients of this prestigious award.
• Recognition of Prime Minister Narendra Modi:
• • The award acknowledges his efforts to assist Dominica during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • It also highlights his role in fostering a stronger partnership between India and Dominica.

• Dominica: 
• • It is an island country of the Lesser Antilles in the eastern Caribbean Sea.
  • The capital and chief port is Roseau.
  •  It lies between the French islands of Guadeloupe and Marie-Galante to the north and Martinique to the south.
  •  The country has been a member of the Commonwealth since independence in 1978.
  • Dominica is the only island with a relatively large and distinctive group of Carib Indians, descendants of the people who inhabited the island before European colonization 

Miss Universe 2024 

• News: Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark has been crowned Miss Universe 2024, becoming the first Dane to ever win the competition. 
• More on News: The 73rd edition of Miss Universe concluded on November 17, with 21-year-old Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark winning the crown. This is the first time a Danish contestant has become Miss Universe.