UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 December 2024

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 December 2024 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles

InstaLinks :  Insta Links help you think beyond the  current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background.

Table of Contents 

GS Paper 1 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 December  2024)

1. Social Media and Teenagers

GS Paper 3:

2. Wealth Tax

Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):

1. Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan

Facts for Prelims (FFP):

1. Belagavi Congress Session

2. Monetary and Fiscal Policy

3. Scheme for Fisheries

4. Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar

5. Kaveri Engine

6. Joint Military Exercises

Mapping:

1. Brahmaputra River

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 December 2024

GS Paper 1 :

Social Media and Teenagers

Syllabus: Society

Source:  NIE

 Context: Rising social media use among teenagers’ sparks debates on benefits and risks, with moves like Australia’s ban for under-16s underscoring the need to balance digital engagement and mental health.

Rise of Social Media Usage by Teenagers:

• Widespread Access: Reports show over 43% of Indian children aged 8-18 have active social media accounts, with many accessing it via parental smartphones.
• Growing Dependency: Late-night scrolling and excessive screen time are common, often impacting mental and physical health.
• Global Patterns: Similar trends exist globally, with countries like Norway and France initiating regulations to curb overuse.
• Demographic Reach: Teenagers use platforms for self-expression, learning, and forming social connections.

Benefits of Social Media for Teenagers:

• Social Interaction: Enables connectivity with peers, family, and online communities.
• Educational Opportunities: Provides access to learning resources, forums, and academic discussions.
• Creativity: Encourages creative expression through videos, images, and profile customization.
• Identity and Support: Offers a space for marginalized groups (LGBTQ+, disabled youth) to find support.
• Mental Well-being: Facilitates emotional support through online groups, fostering a sense of belonging.

Issues with Social Media and Children:

1. Cyberbullying: Frequent cases of harassment and threats create psychological stress.
2. Exposure to Inappropriate Content: Children often encounter violent, aggressive, or sexual material.
3. Addiction: Compulsive usage disrupts sleep patterns and leads to anxiety and depression.
4. Privacy Risks: Personal data can be misused or sold to third parties.
5. Pressure and Comparison: Unrealistic standards harm self-esteem, particularly among teenage girls.

Government Initiatives to Handle Social Media Usage:

1. Y20 Initiative: Engages youth in policy-making on digital safety and mental health.
2. Digital Detox Campaigns: Encourages balanced screen time and offline activities.
3. IT Act and Data Protection Act: Proposes safeguards for children’s privacy and exposure online.
4. National Cybersecurity Initiatives: Focus on creating child-safe online spaces with stringent content moderation.

Way Ahead:

1. Parental Engagement: Open conversations and negotiated guidelines for social media use.
2. Education: Integrate digital literacy and citizenship into school curricula.
3. Regulated Access: Introduce age-appropriate features and time-windowed digital usage.
4. Collaborations with Tech Companies: Ensure safe modes and curated content for children.
5. Global Cooperation: Learn from international models like Finland’s digital citizenship program and France’s mobile ban in schools.

Conclusion:

A balanced approach is essential to regulate social media for teenagers, ensuring their mental well-being and digital literacy without depriving them of the benefits of technology. Collaborative efforts among parents, governments, and tech platforms can foster a healthier relationship with the digital world.

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UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 December 2024 GS Paper 3:

Wealth Tax

Syllabus: Economy

Source:  The Print

 Context: The proposal to reintroduce wealth tax in India has sparked debates, with arguments for reducing inequality through redistribution versus concerns over capital flight and administrative inefficiencies.

What is Wealth Tax?

Wealth tax is a direct tax levied on the net wealth of individuals, HUFs, and companies to ensure redistribution of resources. In India, it was governed by the Wealth Tax Act, 1957, abolished in 2016 due to high administrative costs and low revenue collection.

Features and Criteria of Wealth Tax:

• Target Entities: Applicable to individuals, HUFs, and companies; excludes firms, co-operatives, and mutual funds.
• Net Wealth Definition: Includes immovable assets (e.g., real estate), financial instruments, and luxury items after deducting liabilities.
• Exemptions: Assets held by charitable institutions, political parties, and specific businesses.
• Rate: Previously, wealth exceeding ₹30 lakh was taxed at 1%.
• Valuation Date: Calculated annually as of March 31st.

Global Models of Wealth Taxation:

• Norway:

• 85%-1.1% tax on net wealth.
• Strong public support due to investments in health and education.
• Minimal capital flight due to robust infrastructure and social trust.

• Switzerland:

• Decentralized system; cantons set individual tax rates.
• Wealth tax contributes 3.6%-3.8% of total state revenue.

 Advantages of Wealth Tax:

1. Reduces Inequality: Ensures redistribution of wealth, promoting social equity.
2. Revenue for Development: Provides funding for health, education, and social services.
3. Encourages Productive Asset Allocation: Discourages investments in unproductive assets like gold and real estate.
4. Progressive Nature: Targets ultra-wealthy, leaving the middle class unaffected.

Disadvantages of Wealth Tax:

1. Capital Flight: Wealthy individuals may relocate to avoid taxes, reducing domestic investment.
2. High Administrative Costs: Challenges in asset valuation and compliance increase collection expenses.
3. Evasion and Loopholes: Wealth can be easily transferred or hidden, limiting effectiveness.
4. Impact on Savings and Investments: May discourage long-term wealth accumulation.

Way Ahead:

1. Targeted Approach: Focus on ultra-high-net-worth individuals while protecting the middle class.
2. Efficient Administration: Leverage technology for accurate wealth tracking and compliance.
3. Transparent Revenue Use: Channel tax revenues into visible improvements in health, education, and infrastructure to build trust.
4. Global Collaboration: Partner with other nations for data sharing and preventing tax evasion.
5. Periodic Review: Continuously evaluate the impact and modify policies as needed.

Conclusion:

Reintroducing a wealth tax in India requires a delicate balance between equity and efficiency. Lessons from global examples underscore the importance of targeted policies, robust administration, and transparent utilization to foster sustainable development without disrupting economic stability.

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UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 December 2024 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan

Context: Prime Minister launched the Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan, emphasizing the significance of combating malnutrition and promoting healthy living.

About Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan:

• Objective: Aims to encourage villages to adopt practices that ensure better nutrition and overall health.
• Focus Areas: Malnutrition eradication, healthy competition among villages, and sustainable development.
• Approach: Community-driven initiatives to improve nutritional outcomes and empower rural populations.
• Significance: Supports national goals like Poshan Abhiyan, aligning with India’s commitment to SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).

Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus

• GS-II (Governance):

• Role of Panchayati Raj Institutions in rural development and social welfare.
• Initiatives for malnutrition eradication and community health.

• GS-III (Economy):

• Importance of grassroots-level initiatives for economic and human capital development.
• Health as a component of sustainable rural development.

• Essay:

• Role of community-driven campaigns in addressing socio-economic challenges like malnutrition.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 December 2024 Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Belagavi Congress Session

Source:  TH

 Context: The 39th Congress Session, chaired by Mahatma Gandhi in Belgaum (now Belagavi) in 1924, marks a century as a landmark in India’s freedom struggle.

About Belagavi Congress Session, 1924:

• Year and Presidentship: Held in December 1924; chaired by Mahatma Gandhi, marking the only Congress session he presided over.
• Blend of Political and Social Reform: Unlike other sessions, it focused equally on social issues like untouchability eradication, khadi promotion, sanitation, and Hindu-Muslim unity, alongside political goals like Swaraj.

• Institutional Transformation: Gandhi restructured the Congress into a mass movement by reducing the membership fee by 90%, making it accessible to all social classes.
• Focus on Grassroots Empowerment: The session mandated contributions to hand-spun khadi, promoting self-reliance and village industries, and marked a shift from urban-centric strategies to rural revitalization.
• Cultural and Ethical Impact:
  1. Advocated equality, with Brahmin volunteers engaging in sanitation work.
  2. Iconic cultural performances by Vishnu Digambar Paluskar and Gangubai Hangal.
  3. Gandhi’s famous declaration, “If I am to be born again, may I be born a Bhangi,” emphasized social justice and upliftment.
• Infrastructure Legacy: The construction of Pampa Sarovara, a well for the session, continues to serve Belagavi, symbolizing sustainable contributions from the event.
• Visionary Resolutions: Unique resolutions on urban planning and cow protection linked economic development with cultural preservation, showcasing Gandhi’s holistic approach.

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Monetary and Fiscal Policy

Source:  TOI

Context: A finance ministry report cited monetary policy, macroprudential measures, and structural factors as possible contributors to the demand slowdown, highlighting differing views with the RBI on growth and inflation.

About Fiscal Policy:

• Definition: Fiscal policy refers to the government’s use of taxation, spending, and borrowing to influence economic activity.
• Tools of Fiscal Policy:

• • Taxation: Adjusting tax rates to influence disposable income and spending.
  • Government Spending: Expenditure on public goods, infrastructure, and social programs.
  • Public Borrowing: Managing deficits through domestic or international borrowing.
  • Subsidies: Providing financial assistance to specific sectors to boost demand.
  • Transfers: Welfare payments like unemployment benefits and pensions.

• Impact of Fiscal Policy on Growth and Demand:

About Monetary Policy:

• Definition: Monetary policy involves the central bank’s regulation of money supply and interest rates to maintain price stability and foster economic growth.
• Tools of Monetary Policy:

• • Open Market Operations (OMO): Buying or selling government securities to control liquidity.
  • Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR): Adjusting the percentage of deposits banks must hold as reserves.
  • Repo and Reverse Repo Rates: Influencing short-term interest rates.
  • Bank Rate: Long-term interest rate adjustments to influence credit availability.
  • Quantitative Easing (QE): Injecting money into the economy by purchasing financial assets.

• Impact of Monetary Policy on Growth and Demand:

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Scheme for Fisheries

Source:  TH

 Context: The government has introduced initiatives like Matsya Seva Kendras and Sagar Mitras under flagship schemes to boost productivity and ensure sustainable fisheries.

About Matsya Seva Kendras:

• What it is: One-stop solution centres providing extension services to fish farmers and hatcheries.
• Launched in: Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in 2020.
• Aim: To provide comprehensive support in aquaculture, disease management, and training.
• Features:

• • Equipped with labs for water, soil, and microbial analysis.
  • Offers need-based services like disease testing, capacity building, and technology infusion.
  • Mobilizes cooperatives, SHGs, and start-ups to share best practices.

About Sagar Mitra:

• What it is: A field-level interface between government and coastal fishers.
• Launched in: Coastal States and UTs under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
• Aim: To support fishers with data dissemination, market insights, and sustainable fishing practices.
• Features:
  • Collects data on marine catch, market trends, and prices.
  • Provides updates on local regulations, weather forecasts, and potential fishing zones.
  • Facilitates hygienic fish handling and safety information.

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Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar

Source:  TH

 Context: The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, India’s highest civilian honor for children, was conferred by President in 2024, recognizing 17 young achievers in art, bravery, and innovation.

About Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar:

• What it is: India’s highest civilian award for children, celebrating exceptional achievements in various fields.
• Awarded by: President of India on behalf of the Government of India.
• Ministry involved: Organized by the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
• Categories:
  • Art & Culture
  • Bravery
  • Innovation
  • Science & Technology
  • Social Service
  • Sports
  • Environment
• Eligibility:
  • Must be an Indian citizen.
  • Age: 5–18 years as of July 31 of the respective year.
  • Achievements must have occurred within two years prior to the nomination deadline.
  • Up to 25 awards are conferred annually, with flexibility at the discretion of the National Selection Committee.
• Award details: Winners receive a medal, a certificate, and a citation booklet.

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Kaveri Engine

Source:  ET

 Context: The Kaveri engine, an indigenous gas turbine engine developed by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) under DRDO, has been cleared for inflight testing.

About Kaveri Engine:

• Developed by: Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), under DRDO.
• History:

• Initiated in 1986 for powering the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.
• Experienced setbacks and was decertified for the LCA program but repurposed for UAVs.
• Revival efforts in 2016 with SAFRAN partnership for technical assistance.

• Features:

• Current version produces 49-51 kN thrust, suitable for UAVs like Ghatak UCAV.
• Future plans include integrating an afterburner to achieve 73-75 kN thrust for advanced applications.
• Tested extensively in high-altitude simulations (Russia) and ground trials (India).

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Joint Military Exercises

Source:  DD News

 Context: The 18th editions of Surya Kiran and SLINEX 24, joint military exercises between India and its neighbours, are set to take place.

About Military Exercises in News:

• Surya Kiran 2024:

• Exercise name: Surya Kiran 2024
• Held at: Saljhandi, Nepal
• Nations involved: India and Nepal
• Focus: Jungle warfare, counter-terrorism, and humanitarian operations under the UN Charter.

• SLINEX-24:

• Exercise name: SLINEX 24
• Held at: Visakhapatnam, India
• Nations involved: India and Sri Lanka
• Focus: Maritime cooperation and interoperability between navies.

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UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27 December 2024 Mapping:

Brahmaputra River

Source:  BS

 Context: China has approved the construction of the world’s largest dam, stated to be the planet’s biggest infra project costing $137 billion, on the Brahmaputra River.

About Brahmaputra River System:

• Different Names:

• Tibet: Yarlung Tsangpo.
• India: Dihang in Arunachal Pradesh; Brahmaputra in Assam.
• Bangladesh: Jamuna.

• Origin:

• Source: Chemayungdung Glacier, near Mount Kailash, Tibet.
• Divided from Manasarovar Lake by Mariam La Pass.

• Course:

• Tibet: Gentle slope through the Tsangpo valley, receiving tributaries like Raga Tsangpo.
• India: Breaks through the Himalayas to enter Arunachal Pradesh as Dihang, merging with Lohit and Dibang to become Brahmaputra.
• Bangladesh: Merges with the Ganga as Jamuna to form the Sunderbans delta.

• Major Tributaries:

• Left Bank: Dibang, Lohit, Burhi Dihing, Dhansiri.
• Right Bank: Subansiri, Manas, Teesta, Kameng.

• Dams on Brahmaputra:

• Existing Dams:

• • • Zam Hydropower Station (China, operational since 2015).

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