CURRENT AFFAIRS (22 DECEMBER 2024) 

1.Sahitya Akademi Awards 2023:   

• Acknowledgment of Literary Distinction: The Sahitya Akademi has revealed its annual awards across 24 languages, celebrating literary works in various forms, including poetry, novels, short stories, essays, and literary critiques. This initiative aims to foster and honor the diverse linguistic and cultural heritage of India.  
• Award Specifications: Each award consists of a casket that holds an engraved copper plaque, a shawl, and a monetary prize of ₹1,00,000. These awards not only recognize individual achievements but also promote the growth of regional literature.

2. Advancement of Punaura Dham in Mithila

* Cultural Importance 

Punaura Dham, located in Sitamarhi, Bihar, holds a revered status as the birthplace of Goddess Sita, a central figure in Hindu mythology and the epic Ramayana. This sacred site is not only a pilgrimage destination for devotees but also a cultural landmark that embodies the rich traditions and heritage of the Mithila region. The significance of Punaura Dham extends beyond its religious connotations; it serves as a symbol of the Mithila culture, which is known for its unique art forms, folk traditions, and vibrant festivals. The site attracts a diverse array of visitors, including spiritual seekers, historians, and tourists, all drawn by the allure of its historical and mythological narratives. The annual festivals and rituals conducted at Punaura Dham further enhance its cultural vibrancy, fostering a sense of community and continuity among the local population. As a result, Punaura Dham plays a crucial role in preserving the cultural identity of Mithila while also promoting inter-regional and inter-cultural exchanges. 

* Development Project 

In recognition of the importance of Punaura Dham, the government of Bihar has initiated a comprehensive development project with a budget of ₹72 crores. This ambitious initiative aims to upgrade the existing infrastructure and facilities at the site, ensuring that it meets the needs of the increasing number of visitors. Key components of the project include the construction of better roads, improved public transportation options, and the establishment of modern amenities such as restrooms, waiting areas, and food stalls. Additionally, the project emphasizes the preservation of the site’s cultural heritage, with plans to restore and maintain historical structures and artifacts associated with Goddess Sita. 

The development of Punaura Dham is expected to significantly enhance accessibility for pilgrims and tourists, making it easier for them to visit and experience the spiritual and cultural richness of the site. By improving the visitor experience, the initiative aims to boost regional tourism, which in turn is anticipated to stimulate the local economy. Increased footfall can lead to the creation of jobs in hospitality, retail, and other service sectors, providing a much-needed economic uplift to the surrounding communities. Furthermore, the project aligns with broader efforts to promote religious tourism in Bihar, positioning Punaura Dham as a key destination on the cultural map of India. Overall, the advancement of Punaura Dham represents a harmonious blend of cultural preservation and economic development, ensuring that this sacred site continues to thrive for generations to come. 

GS Paper 2: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations 

1.  Parliamentary Committee on Child Labour:   

– Consistent Definition of ‘Child’: The committee has highlighted the necessity for a uniform definition of ‘child’ across different legal frameworks to remove any legal uncertainties. Currently, various laws define ‘child’ using differing age parameters, which complicates enforcement. A standardized definition would simplify legal procedures and strengthen protective measures.   

– Goal of Eradicating Child Labour by 2025: In alignment with national objectives, the committee has established a goal to eradicate child labour by the year 2025. This ambitious aim necessitates collaborative efforts from both governmental and non-governmental entities, with a focus on education, rehabilitation, and rigorous enforcement of labour regulations.   

– Increased Penalties for Offences: To discourage child labour practices, the committee advocates for the imposition of stricter penalties for violations. This includes elevated fines and extended prison sentences for offenders, with the intention of establishing a strong deterrent effect.   

– National Child Tracking System: The proposal includes the creation of a centralized tracking system to monitor at-risk children and ensure prompt interventions. Such a system would enable real-time data collection and resource distribution, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of child protection services.   

2.India-Sri Lanka Relations 

* Assurance Against Anti-India Activities 

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has made a firm commitment to ensuring that Sri Lankan territory will not be used for any activities that could potentially undermine India’s interests. This assurance is particularly significant in the context of regional security dynamics, where both nations face common challenges, including terrorism and maritime security threats. By explicitly stating this commitment, Dissanayake aims to foster a sense of security and trust between the two countries, which is essential for maintaining regional stability. This pledge not only reflects Sri Lanka’s recognition of India’s strategic importance but also underscores the necessity of collaborative efforts to combat any elements that may seek to destabilize the region. Such assurances are vital for building a foundation of mutual respect and understanding, which can lead to more robust diplomatic and security cooperation in the future. 

* Strengthening Bilateral Ties 

The recent developments in India-Sri Lanka relations signify a pivotal moment in their diplomatic engagement, as both nations are actively seeking to enhance their bilateral ties across multiple sectors. This includes a focus on trade, where both countries are exploring avenues to increase economic cooperation and investment opportunities. The potential for growth in trade relations is immense, given the geographical proximity and historical connections between the two nations. 

In addition to trade, maritime security has emerged as a critical area of collaboration, especially in light of the increasing importance of the Indian Ocean as a strategic maritime route. Both countries recognize the need to work together to ensure the safety and security of their maritime interests, which is vital for regional stability and economic prosperity. 

Cultural exchange is another significant aspect of the strengthening relationship, as both India and Sri Lanka share deep-rooted historical and cultural ties. Initiatives aimed at promoting cultural understanding and people-to-people connections can further enhance goodwill and foster a sense of shared identity between the two nations. 

Ongoing diplomatic efforts are expected to play a crucial role in reinforcing this partnership. High-level visits, joint initiatives, and collaborative projects are likely to be prioritized as both countries seek to build on this momentum. The commitment to strengthening bilateral ties reflects a shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous future, where both India and Sri Lanka can work together to address common challenges and capitalize on mutual opportunities. 

GS Paper 3: Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management 

1.  IFC’s Investment in NDR InvIT:   

– Sustainability-Linked Bond (SLB): The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has allocated $75 million (₹630 crore) to NDR InvIT’s sustainability-linked bond, representing a notable achievement as the first warehouse Infrastructure Investment Trust in India to issue such a bond. SLBs are pioneering financial instruments designed to motivate issuers to meet specific sustainability objectives, thereby fostering environmentally conscious investments.   

– Enhancing Warehouse Infrastructure: This investment is intended to facilitate the development of sustainable, high-quality warehouse facilities, catering to the increasing demand for efficient logistics infrastructure in India. Enhanced warehousing is essential for alleviating supply chain constraints and bolstering economic development.   

– EDGE Certification: The funding will assist NDR InvIT in acquiring EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) Certification, an international green building certification system endorsed by IFC. This certification highlights a commitment to sustainable construction practices, ensuring optimal energy and resource efficiency.   

1. RBI Penalties on Financial Institutions: 

• IndusInd Bank: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a monetary penalty of ₹27.30 lakh on IndusInd Bank for regulatory violations, including the opening of savings accounts for ineligible entities.Such breaches highlight the need for stringent adherence to Know Your Customer (KYC) norms and regulatory guidelines to maintain the integrity of the banking system. 

• Manappuram Finance: A penalty of ₹20 lakh has been levied on Manappuram Finance for failing to verify Permanent Account Number (PAN) details and for allotting multiple identification codes to customers instead of a unique customer identification code.These lapses can lead to financial discrepancies and undermine customer data management, necessitating improved compliance measures. 

GS Paper 4: Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude 

1.  Ethical Issues in Digital Governance 

The rapid advancement and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies in public administration have transformed the landscape of governance, offering both opportunities and challenges. As governments increasingly rely on these technologies to enhance efficiency, transparency, and service delivery, they also face a myriad of ethical dilemmas that must be addressed to ensure equitable and just governance. Key ethical issues include data privacy, algorithmic bias, and inclusivity, each of which poses significant implications for the relationship between citizens and the state. 

Data Privacy 

One of the foremost ethical concerns in digital governance is the protection of citizens’ data privacy. The collection, storage, and processing of vast amounts of personal data by government agencies raise questions about consent, security, and the potential for misuse. Citizens often lack awareness of how their data is being used, leading to a sense of distrust in public institutions. Moreover, breaches of data security can expose sensitive information, resulting in harm to individuals and undermining public confidence in digital governance systems. Ethical frameworks must be established to ensure that data collection practices are transparent, consensual, and secure, prioritizing the rights of individuals over the operational efficiencies sought by governments. 

Algorithmic Bias 

Another critical ethical issue is algorithmic bias, which can arise when AI systems are designed or trained on datasets that reflect existing societal inequalities. These biases can lead to discriminatory outcomes in public services, such as law enforcement, healthcare, and social welfare programs. For instance, if an algorithm used to allocate resources is trained on historical data that reflects systemic biases, it may perpetuate those biases in its decision-making processes. This raises ethical questions about fairness, accountability, and the potential for technology to exacerbate social inequalities. It is essential for governments to implement rigorous testing and auditing of AI systems to identify and mitigate biases, ensuring that technology serves all citizens equitably. 

Inclusivity 

Inclusivity is another significant ethical consideration in digital governance. As governments adopt digital technologies, there is a risk of excluding marginalized populations who may lack access to the necessary tools or digital literacy to engage with these systems. This digital divide can result in unequal access to essential services, further entrenching existing disparities. Ethical governance requires a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status, have equal opportunities to benefit from digital advancements. This may involve investing in digital literacy programs, providing access to technology, and designing user-friendly interfaces that accommodate diverse populations. 

2.Corruption and Ethical Leadership:   

   – Recent enforcement measures targeting corrupt officials underscore the persistent difficulties in addressing corruption within public institutions.   

   – The importance of ethical training for civil servants, which focuses on accountability and transparency, is gaining recognition as an essential element of governance reforms. 

3. Moral Dilemmas in Law Enforcement:  

   – Ethical challenges faced by law enforcement agencies, such as balancing the right to protest with maintaining public order, have been debated.   

   – Case Study: The handling of protests against infrastructure projects in ecologically sensitive zones. 

4. Value-Based Education Initiatives:

Integrating ethics and values into school curricula marks a shift in educational philosophy aimed at holistic student development, as highlighted by the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020. 

1. Holistic Development: These initiatives nurture academic, emotional, social, and ethical skills, promoting values like empathy, respect, integrity, and responsibility to create well-rounded individuals.
2. Curriculum Design: NEP 2020 advocates for a value-centric curriculum that includes critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and moral decision-making through real-life discussions and role-playing.
3. Teacher Training: Effective implementation requires training educators to incorporate ethical discussions into their teaching, fostering a classroom environment that encourages dialogue about values.
4. Community Engagement: Value-based education involves collaboration with parents and local communities through service projects and partnerships, reinforcing the importance of ethical behavior and social responsibility.

Important Schemes and Initiatives 

1. PM Vishwakarma Yojana:  

   – Objective: To support traditional artisans and craftspeople with financial aid, skill development, and infrastructure support.   

   – Key Features: Offers interest-free loans up to ₹3 lakh, toolkits, and technology upgrades for micro-entrepreneurs. 

2. Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY):  

   – Objective: To provide health coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year to economically vulnerable populations.   

   – Impact: Over 50 crore beneficiaries covered, with a significant reduction in out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure. 

3. Gati Shakti Master Plan:  

   – Objective: Aimed at multi-modal infrastructure development to enhance connectivity across India.   

   – Components: Integration of 16 ministries for unified planning, including logistics, railways, and roads. 

4. Mission Amrit Sarovar:  

   – Objective: To develop and rejuvenate 75 water bodies in each district as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.   

   – Impact: Addresses water conservation challenges and promotes ecological balance. 

5. National Digital Health Mission (NDHM):  

   – Objective: To create a digital ecosystem for health services by providing unique health IDs and enabling telemedicine.   

   – Key Features: Integrated health records, e-pharmacy, and real-time access to healthcare services. 

6. Atmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana (ABRY):  

   – Objective: To incentivize employment generation post-COVID-19 pandemic.   

   – Key Features: The government contributes EPF (Employee Provident Fund) shares for new employees in eligible establishments. 

7. National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 Implementation:  

   – Focus on foundational literacy and numeracy, vocational training from an early age, and multidisciplinary education frameworks.