27 January 2025 : The Hindu Analysis (Daily Current Affairs)

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 1. Indian space programme breaks into 2025 in ‘mission mode’

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)

Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology

Context

• The report emphasizes India's progress in space exploration, including successful docking and private sector collaborations. It also outlines preparations for human spaceflight and ambitious missions such as Chandrayaan-4.

PSLV-C60 Mission and SpaDeX Experiment

• On December 30, 2024, the PSLV-C60 mission was launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), carrying the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) satellites.
• Two satellites were deployed into a 475 km orbit and began docking preparations, scheduled for January 7, 2025.
• Initial attempts encountered challenges, including unanticipated drift between the satellites, prompting ISRO to adjust the inter-satellite distances multiple times.
• On January 16, 2025, the two satellites successfully docked, marking India's inaugural in-orbit rendezvous and docking achievement.
• This accomplishment is vital for upcoming lunar and space station docking operations.

POEM4 Mission

• Subsequent to the SpaDeX deployment, the PSLV-C60’s fourth stage commenced the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM4) phase.
• POEM4 accommodated 24 payloads, featuring experiments from ISRO, academic institutions, and private enterprises.
• The mission utilizes the PSLV’s fourth stage as an experimental platform for scientific payloads, facilitating research in robotics, propulsion, and plant studies.

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Leadership Transition at ISRO

• On January 14, 2025, V. Narayanan was appointed as the new chairman of ISRO, succeeding S. Somanath. Narayanan, previously director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Center in Thiruvananthapuram, has significant experience with cryogenic and semi-cryogenic engines and led the investigation into the Chandrayaan-2 moon landing failure.
• This leadership transition represents a new era for ISRO as it progresses toward human spaceflight and next-generation launch vehicles.

Indian Contributions on SpaceX’s Transporter 12 Mission

• On January 15, 2025, three Indian companies successfully launched payloads aboard SpaceX’s Transporter 12 mission:
• Pixxel Space: Deployed three hyperspectral satellites as part of a private constellation.
• Digantara: Launched a satellite aimed at space situational awareness.
• XDLINX Labs: Introduced a miniaturised communications satellite for Almagest Space Corporation.

Infrastructure and Technological Advances

• The government authorized ₹3,984. 86 crore for a third launch pad at SDSC, projected for completion by 2029.
• ISRO conducted successful tests on the Vikas engine’s restart capability, a critical component for atmospheric operations.
• Additionally, data from the Aditya-L1 solar mission was released, highlighting India’s advancements in solar studies.

Conclusion 

These missions contribute to India's objectives in scientific research, technology development, and future space exploration endeavors. Collaborative efforts with private enterprises underscore the growing role of India’s private space sector in fulfilling national aspirations.

Practice Question: Discuss the significance of India’s achievements in space exploration and their impact on technological innovation, global collaborations, and the nation’s strategic objectives. (250 Words /15 marks)

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2. Should Governors head State universities?

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 4)

Topic: GS2 – Governance 

Context

• The role of the Governor as Chancellor of State universities is a contentious issue. It frequently results in political interference, compromising the autonomy and governance of universities.

Governor as Chancellor of State Universities: A Colonial Legacy

• This role has its origins during British colonial rule, aimed at restricting rather than promoting university autonomy.
• It was formalized in 1857 by British authorities with the establishment of the first universities in Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras, where Governors of the presidencies were designated as ex-officio Chancellors to enforce control over these institutions.
• This role was retained post-Independence without reassessment and remains prevalent in India today, though it is not explicitly stated in the Constitution and is instead embedded in State university laws.

Politicisation of the Governor’s Role

• Between 1947 and 1967, Governors primarily functioned as ceremonial figures under the Congress party's dominance, with true power resting with Chief Ministers. 
• However, after 1967, when opposition parties began to govern in several states, Governors took on a more active role in university governance, resulting in conflicts with state administrations. 
• The politicization of the Governor's office ensued, with many Governors appointed based on political allegiance rather than academic qualifications, leading to a decline in the office's credibility. 
• Critiques of this politicization were presented by the First Administrative Reforms Commission (1966–77) and the Sarkaria Commission (1983-88).

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Dual Role of Governors

• Constitutionally, the Governor's role is bifurcated into two areas: acting on the advice of the Council of Ministers (Article 163) and exercising independent authority in specific functions, such as serving as Chancellor of State universities. 
• This discretion in university matters, including the appointment of Vice-Chancellors and presiding over convocations, has generated conflicts, especially in opposition-governed states.

Challenges of the Current System

• Despite State universities being funded by State governments, Governors retain considerable power over them, which leads to confusion and disputes. 
• Delays in Vice-Chancellor appointments and other administrative matters impede university operations. 
• Furthermore, Governors, who often lack academic credentials, make decisions based on limited and opaque counsel. 
• Political interference from Governors tends to prioritize central government objectives over university requirements, undermining the principle of federalism by subjecting State universities to the authority of centrally appointed Governors.

Commission Insights and Recommendations

• The Rajamannar Committee (1969-71) and the Sarkaria Commission (1983-88) recommended that Governors should consult with Chief Ministers while maintaining independent judgment. 
• The M. M. Punchhi Commission (2007-10) advised that Governors concentrate on constitutional responsibilities rather than statutory roles like Chancellor to uphold the office’s dignity. 
• Various commissions, including the National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (2000-02), have called for enhanced university autonomy and a more defined role for Chancellors.

Alternative Models for the Role of Chancellor

• Best practice suggests that the Chancellor should function as a ceremonial figure without executive power. Certain states, such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, have enacted reforms reducing the Governor’s role to a purely ceremonial capacity.
• The State-appointed Chancellor model, where prominent academics or public figures serve as Chancellor, has been proposed as a viable solution. This model guarantees academic independence while mitigating political interference. Several state sare currently evaluating this approach, although numerous bills are pending Presidential approval.

Dismantling Colonial Legacy

• Reforming the governance of State universities is crucial for achieving academic excellence, minimizing political interference, and improving accountability to State governments.
• The central government should facilitate these reforms and motivate states to align their university governance frameworks with global best practices.

Conclusion 

The Governor's role as Chancellor of State universities, a remnant of colonial governance, requires reform. Transitioning to a leadership model that prioritizes neutrality and academic focus would strengthen university autonomy and governance.

Practice Question: Examine the impact of the Governor’s role as Chancellor of State universities on academic independence and state autonomy. What reforms are needed to address the challenges associated with this system? (150 Words / 10 marks)

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3. Trump’s Greenland Gambit: A Geopolitical Power Play to Counter China in the Arctic

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained – Page No. – 12)

Topic: GS2 – International Relations

Context

• Donald Trump has indicated interest in acquiring Greenland, emphasizing ongoing U. S. ambitions in strategically vital areas such as the Arctic.

Analysis of the news:

Trump’s Renewed Interest in Greenland

• U. S. President Donald Trump’s comments regarding Greenland reflect his intention to bring the autonomous Danish territory under American governance, citing its strategic significance for the "protection of the free world. " While this desire may seem unconventional in the 21st century, it is anchored in historical and geopolitical elements, particularly concerns about China's growing influence in the Arctic.

Historical Context of US Interest in Greenland

• The U. S. has expressed interest in Greenland since the 1940s, initially motivated by security concerns during World War II.
• In 1946, the U. S. proposed purchasing Greenland to counter Soviet influence in the Arctic.
• Although Denmark rejected this offer, subsequent agreements enabled the U. S. to establish military bases on the island, highlighting its strategic relevance.

Greenland’s Geopolitical and Economic Significance

• Greenland’s proximity to emerging Arctic shipping lanes and its wealth of critical natural resources, particularly rare earth minerals, render it highly advantageous.
• These minerals, vital for renewable energy, military technology, and electronics, are predominantly controlled by China.
• Greenland's unexploited resources present an opportunity to lessen dependence on Chinese supply chains, intensifying U. S. efforts to secure the island.

China’s Growing Influence in Greenland

• China has significantly increased its presence in Greenland through investments in mining, infrastructure, and its Arctic “Polar Silk Road” initiative.
• This has raised concerns in the U. S. , which perceives Chinese activities as a threat to its Arctic strategy and global mineral supply security.
• Trump's advocacy for Greenland serves as a strategic counter to China's expanding influence.

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Confrontation with Denmark

• Denmark, which manages Greenland’s foreign affairs, has categorically rejected Trump’s proposals, affirming that Greenland is not for sale and that its future is determined by its residents.
• Reports of Trump’s confrontational tone and threats of tariffs during discussions with Danish officials have strained relations between the two nations, complicating American ambitions.

Conclusion: 

• Trump’s renewed effort regarding Greenland epitomizes the evolving global power dynamics, where strategic territories like Greenland hold significant importance. While the initiative reflects the U. S. desire to counter China’s Arctic aspirations, the confrontational stance risks diplomatic repercussions.
• Greenland remains a crucial element in the global geopolitical landscape, with its future dependent on local autonomy and international negotiations.

Key Facts About Greenland

• It is the world’s largest island, situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, and is a territory of Denmark.
• Greenland features prominent mountain ranges such as the Watkins Range and Stauning Alps, along with rivers like Borglum and Majorqaq.
• Greenland has functioned as a mining nation since the late 1700s, extracting coal and later mining gold, silver, copper, lead, zinc, graphite, and marble.

Practice Question: Analyze the geopolitical and economic importance of Greenland within the Arctic region. Explore how global power rivalries, especially between the United States and China, influence the strategic interests related to the island. (150 Words / 10 marks)

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Prelims Facts

1. Where did dinosaurs first evolve?

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)

Context

• Fossils of Mbiresaurus raathi, a dinosaur approximately one meter tall with a long tail and weighing up to 30 kilograms, were discovered in Zimbabwe in 2019.

Species in news – Mbiresaurus Raathi

• Species: Mbiresaurus raathi is a species of dinosaur discovered in Zimbabwe.
• Size: It was about one meter tall and weighed approximately 30 kilograms.
• Tail: The dinosaur had a long tail, which was typical for early dinosaurs.
• Habitat: It lived in what was likely a hot, dry environment with seasonal wildfires.
• Discovery: Its remains were found in 2019 in the northern part of Zimbabwe.
• Era: The fossils date back to around 230 million years ago, during the Late Triassic period.
• Significance: Mbiresaurus provides insights into early dinosaur evolution.
• Mbiresaurus is one of the oldest-known dinosaur species.

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2. Whip System

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Express Network- Page No. – 06)

Context

• Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar recently criticized the application of party whips, contending that they constrain MPs' freedom of expression and promote party obedience.

Analysis of the news:

Party Whips in Practice

• In parliamentary politics, party whips are essential for maintaining party discipline, particularly during critical votes.
• MPs are frequently required to follow the party line, with noncompliance resulting in repercussions such as expulsion.
• This mechanism is regarded as crucial for upholding the integrity of party stances on significant issues.

Origins and History of Whips

Etymology of “Whip”

• The term derives from England’s hunting tradition, where a “whipper-in” controlled hounds.
• Political usage was popularized by Edmund Burke, who referred to the effort of “whipping in” supporters to align with party objectives.

Introduction in India

• India incorporated the whip system during its parliamentary establishment. It ensures party unity and illustrates majority strength during vital votes.
• Violating a whip, particularly a stringent three-line whip, can result in disqualification under the Anti-Defection Law, a fundamental aspect of Indian democracy since 1985.

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Types and Enforcement of Whips

Kinds of Whips

• One-line whip: Informs members about an upcoming vote, allowing them to abstain.
• Two-line whip: Requests members' presence while granting them discretion in voting.
• Three-line whip: Mandates attendance and voting according to the party line.

Enforcement Mechanism

• The party’s chief whip conveys directives to MPs, ensuring their attendance and compliance.
• The Minister of Parliamentary Affairs supervises this system, coordinating adherence among members of the ruling alliance.

Importance of the Whip System

Democracy and Stability

• The whip system is crucial for the effective functioning of parliament and the enforcement of party discipline.
• It fosters coherent policymaking and enhances party accountability.
• Former Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan underscored that MPs elected on a party ticket are obligated to align with their party’s ideology or resign.

Whips Conference

• Since 1952, the All-India Whips Conference has served as a platform for whips from various parties to exchange views.
• This forum, organized by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, reinforces the whip system’s significance in protecting democratic processes.

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3. Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Express Network- Page No. – 06)

Context

• The number of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases in Pune has crossed 100.

Analysis of the news:

What is Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

GBS is a serious autoimmune disorder that affects the peripheral nervous system. It initially presents weakness, tingling, and numbness in the limbs, which can progress to paralysis lasting 6-12 months or longer.

• The syndrome affects the nerves responsible for muscle movement, pain, temperature, and touch sensations.
• While more common in adults and males, GBS can occur in individuals of all ages.

Cause: The exact cause of GBS is unknown, but as per the World Health Organisation (WHO), GBS is often preceded by an infection. This could be a bacterial or viral infection. This leads the immune system to attack the body itself.

• In rare cases, vaccinations and surgery may slightly increase the risk of developing GBS, but the likelihood of this happening is very low.
• Studies have shown that the risk of getting GBS from infections like the flu is much higher than the risk from vaccines, such as the flu vaccine.

Treatment: GBS treatment involves procedures like plasmapheresis, which removes plasma and replaces it with other fluids.

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4. Paraquat Poisoning

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained- Page No. – 12)

Context

• A 24-year-old woman in Thiruvananthapuram was sentenced to death for poisoning her boyfriend in 2022 with paraquat, a highly toxic chemical herbicide.

Analysis of the news:

What is Paraquat?

• Description: Paraquat, also known as paraquat dichloride or methyl viologen, is a widely used herbicide for weed control and crop desiccation.
• Hazards: The WHO classifies it as a Category 2 (moderately hazardous) chemical. It is banned in over 70 countries, including the EU and China, but remains widely used in India and the US.
• Toxicity: According to the US EPA, even a small accidental sip can be fatal. Some studies suggest a link between paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s Disease.

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Modes of Poisoning and Symptoms

• Exposure:
• Ingestion: Most common and highly fatal.
• Skin Contact: Prolonged exposure can lead to absorption.
• Inhalation: Can cause respiratory issues.
• Symptoms:
• Immediate signs include abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, mouth and throat swelling, and nausea.
• Prolonged exposure can cause kidney, liver, lung, and heart damage, seizures, and respiratory failure.

Treatment for Paraquat Poisoning

• Immediate Response:
• Swallowing activated charcoal or Fuller’s earth to bind the chemical.
• Thorough washing of exposed areas with soap and water.
• Cutting and safely disposing of contaminated clothing.
• Medical Interventions:
• No specific antidote exists.
• Immunosuppression or charcoal hemoperfusion has been studied as potential treatments.

Regulation and Restrictions

• United States: Paraquat sales are limited to licensed commercial users, with safety measures like blue dye, strong odor, and a vomiting agent added to the chemical.
• India: Governed by the Central Insecticides Board under the Insecticides Act of 1968. A 2021 notification restricts its use to crops like wheat, rice, tea, coffee, and apples, among others. However, enforcement is weak, and untrained applicators often store it unsafely.

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